Pierre van Cortlandt – 1721-1814
Pierre Van Cortlandt was a Revolutionary-era statesman and a founding figure in New York State government. He presided over the convention that drafted the state constitution and served as New York’s first lieutenant governor.
- Pierre van Cortlandt
Early Founder/Historic Leader
Van Cortlandt was one of the founding fathers of New York State. During the Revolutionary War, he worked on the political structure of what was to become New York State, a state in the new Republic under formation. He also served as head of the convention that wrote the first state constitution in Kingston, New York. When New York State came into being, he became the first lieutenant governor of New York State [1777-1795], serving with his friend and associate, Governor George Clinton.
Pierre Van Cortlandt was born in New York City, son of Philip Van Cortlandt [1683-1748] and Catherine DePeyster. His mother Catherine’s ancestry also traced back to the original Dutch settlers in New Amsterdam. Pierre’s grandfather was Stephanus Van Cortlandt [1643-1700], who served as the first native mayor of New York City, serving for two terms.
Pierre’s oldest son, Philip Van Cortlandt [1749-1831], became a general in the Continental Army, commanding the Second New York Regiment during the Revolutionary War.
Cortland County and the city of Cortland in central New York, as well as the town of Cortlandt in Westchester County, New York, are all named after Pierre Van Cortlandt.
Pierre Van Cortlandt, unlike many of his contemporaries, lived to a ripe old age. He passed away in 1814, at the advanced age of 93.
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