James Duane Letters

Schenectady County Historical Society

First page of a letter from Thomas Paine to the Honorable James Duane, December 3, 1783 - Image Source

Collection Facts

Extent:

Dates of Original:

1775-1784

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Historical Context

James Duane (1733-1797) was a prominent lawyer, real estate investor, and politician in New York. He was a member of the Revolutionary Committee of New York, the Continental Congress, and was one of the signers of the Articles of Confederation. He was a member of the Constitutional Convention, served as mayor of New York City from 1794-1789, and as a U.S. District judge from 1789-1794. Born in New York City, Duane was the son of Anthony Duane and Altheas Keteltas. He married Mary Livingston in 1759. Duane inherited land in Schenectady County from his father and purchased additional tracts in the area. The town of Duanesburg in Schenectady County was named for him as the principal land owner and developer. Duane and his wife, Mary, are buried at Christ Church Episcopal in Duanesburg.

Scope of Collection

This collection contains correspondence between James Duane and his associates, including notable historical figures such as Thomas Paine, George Clinton, Ethan Allen, George Washington, and Alexander Hamilton.