Evidence of Old Schenectady

By Carol DeLaMarter

It is located at one of the most prominent intersections in the Stockade at Union and N. Church Streets.

Visitors and residents alike can often be seen stopping to read its history. The commemorative tablet honors the memory of Arendt Van Curler, the leader of the original 15 settlers who came here in 1662.

The tablet, installed in 1909, was a project of the young (1904) Schenectady County Historical Society and The Netherlands Society.

After donating $25 for a commemorative plaque in Nijkerk, Holland, (Van Curler’s birthplace) the SCHS board voted to erect a suitable memorial to Van Curler here in Schenectady. A Tablet Committee was formed, funds were donated and on September 29, 1909, the tablet was unveiled following a procession with a band, and speeches.

A citizen group gathered at the current location at the corner of Union and N. Church Streets. As part of his address, Union College President Richmond spoke of paying tribute to the first man who lives in the life and thought of this city, “whose name becomes part of the heritage of each newcomer.”

For all who pass by in 2024, the name of Van Curler becomes part of their heritage still.