Users of Open Archives can have summaries generated from the recognized texts (transcriptions) produced through text recognition (OCR) and handwriting recognition (HTR). Neither of these artificial intelligence tasks is perfect, but they are often more than sufficient to make the historical document understandable. In the transcripts, names are underlined in green and clickable (to search the personal entries on Open Archives for the name in question), the recognized dates have a light gray background and recognized place names have a light purple background.
- On 5 April 1713 (appears to be 1773 based on context), correspondence was exchanged regarding disputes over land ownership on Java's east coast.
- J. R. van der Burgh, Governor and Director of the coast, received a letter along with Javanese documents concerning resolved disputes about several villages (negorijen), dessas, and Tjatjas.
- These disputes had been settled by representatives and chief officers from Stralendorp and Lapro, and the decision was made with fairness and mutual agreement.
- Orders were given to sign and seal the documents and to create a register of all lands, villages, dessas and Tjatjas that belonged to the Sultan and were actually in his possession.
- This register would be reviewed and sealed in the presence of both parties' representatives at Samarang to prevent future disputes.
- The letter writer thanked the Company (the Dutch East India Company) for their efforts during this troublesome matter.
- Two subjects were returned: one named Kamaloeden from the dessa Kalessan, who had tried to sneak into the Soesoehoenan's Kraton (palace), and another named Noro Merto from the dessa Kademakkan, who was accused of involvement with cannons.
- Kamaloeden was punished with eternal banishment to the wilderness of Kafarean in the Patjitan area, but Noro Merto could not be punished because the accusations from Surakarta subjects were false.
- Regarding an elephant that had been requested from Their High Mightinesses, the Sultan would wait patiently until it arrived from Ceylon.
- The Sultan promised to send his stable master to Samarang in 1 to 2 months to select some Bimanese horses, as the brother had kindly offered.
- Greetings were sent from Pangerang Adipattij Anom and the lady according to the Ratoe (queen).
- The letter was written in Djojocarta on the 2nd of the month Besar 1648 (Islamic calendar).
- The translation was made by C. P. Boltze, translator.
- A second similar letter was received from Soesoehoenan Pakoeboeana at Samarang on 26 February 1773, confirming receipt of the correspondence and agreement to ratify, sign and seal the documents, and to create a complete register of all lands, villages, dessas and Tjatjas under his possession.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0484
I. R. van der Burgh wrote from Java's east coast on 5 April 1773. Long-standing difficult disputes over some villages or areas called dessas and tatjas had finally been settled and decided. These disputes were resolved by the ministers of the King and of the Susuhunan (a Javanese ruler), in the presence of the Dutch officials Straalendorff and Lapro. Van der Burgh was very happy about this.
He had the papers that the officials sent him translated into the Javanese language. He sent these papers along so that the King could see for himself how fairly everything had been handled. Van der Burgh did not doubt that the King, together with the Susuhunan and himself, would be satisfied with the division and arrangement that had been made. He was confident that everything would be approved by the King.
Van der Burgh asked that orders be given not only to have these papers signed and sealed on both sides (by the King and by the Susuhunan), but also to have proper registers made as soon as possible of the lands that belonged to the King and that he actually possessed. According to an earlier agreement, Van der Burgh wanted to be present himself when these registers were checked and sealed by the ministers and officials in Samarang. This would prevent such disputes once and for all.
Two subjects of the King had been sent to Van der Burgh from Solo:
- One named Kamaloedien from the village Kalessan, who had tried to sneak armed into the Susuhunan's palace
- Another named Noro Merto from the village Kademakkan, who was accused of plotting with some people from Eramans
Van der Burgh sent these two criminals to the official Lapro to be handed over to the King. He did not doubt that the King would make them experience the punishment they deserved for their evil actions, as a warning to others.
Radeen Adipattij Danoeridsa had written to Van der Burgh that one of the King's elephants had died. Van der Burgh had already asked the High Authorities to request another one from Ceylon. If the King would send his stable master in 1 or 2 months, Van der Burgh would let him choose from some horses from Bima for the King.
Van der Burgh sent greetings to the King and to Prince Adipattij Mancoenogoro with all his heart. His wife also sent greetings.
A copy of a letter from the undersigned to the Sultan was dated Samarang 16 February 1773. Another copy of a letter from the undersigned to the Susuhunan was also dated Samarang 16 February 1773. These letters contained similar information about the settlement of disputes over villages and lands between the King and the Sultan, and between the King and the Susuhunan.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0482
On 5 April 1778, commander Luzac from Java's east coast submitted an account for extraordinary expenses that occurred during the year 1772 for the expedition, totaling 46 guilders and 36 stuivers. He requested approval for payment and write-off of these costs.
The Palembang leader Suragan Badar would not be taken to court upon his arrival regarding the conquest by pirates of the private vessel Sara Margaretha, as there was no sufficient evidence, following the authorities' instructions. Luzac would strictly follow the recommendation to ensure that the tax farmers of the domains paid their taxes on time.
Luzac forwarded a request from senior merchant and first resident at the sultan's court in Djojocarta, Ian Lapro, who asked to be relieved from his position and transferred to the main settlement in order to request transport to the Netherlands the following year. Luzac recommended granting this request favorably, as Lapro had always given complete satisfaction in his service. However, Luzac personally would have preferred if Lapro had been persuaded to abandon his wish to resign and return to the fatherland.
Luzac proposed merchant and second resident at the emperor's court Ian Matthijs van Rhijn as Lapro's replacement, as he had learned to interact with princes and nobles in particular and with the native population in general, and had knowledge of the current state of affairs. Van Rhijn would receive his current title and rank next to the youngest senior merchant, according to the authorities' determination in their general letter of 29 July 1767.
For Van Rhijn's position, Luzac proposed the 12-year bookkeeper Abraham van Heemert to become second secretary and salary bookkeeper in Soeracarta with the title of junior merchant, as he possessed all required qualities better than other servants at the coast who might otherwise be considered.
The sultan was always mindful of everything that nurtured his glory and ambition and was very attentive to whether equality between him and the emperor was maintained everywhere. He therefore noticed with concern that in Soeracarta there was a second resident who accompanied his greatest enemy Maas Said (who held the title of Pangerang Adipattij) at all solemn occasions in public, while his beloved son, who held the same title or that of crown prince at his court, had no one to accompany him at similar occasions.
According to the instructions, a junior merchant was designated for this position, and previously there had even been a second resident with the rank of merchant in 1764. A second resident was required just as much as in Soeracarta to take over affairs in case of illness or absence of the first resident and to function as sworn secretary keeping the salary books, which currently caused much embarrassment and double work for the salary clerks who already had plenty of work.
Luzac therefore proposed to the authorities to again place a second resident in Djojocarta and respectfully nominated the junior merchant and salary bookkeeper Paulus Jacobus de Blij for this position, maintaining his current rank or title. Due to his long stay on this coast, together with the previously mentioned Van Heemert, he had the prospect of fulfilling these positions. Both would receive the rank that the previous second residents at the courts Luzac and Lapro had held, according to the authorities' general letter of 1 May 1764.
Finally, Luzac requested approval to make a journey to inspect the offices and regencies in the west, to be held at
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0480
On
5 April 1738, a report was written from the east coast of
Java about activities in the
Krayagang area, where someone had visited bird's nest cliffs to collect nests.
The writer believed it was necessary to remove all hope from the rebels who were still roaming around and to prevent those from
Nusa from being strengthened by help from
Bali,
Mandhaer, and other places where they seemed to place their hopes. The writer argued that peace in that area could not be secure as long as the island was not brought back under the Company's control. Since the islanders did not respond to friendly appeals, the writer proposed using force to make them submit.
The writer found the plan suggested by the commander of
Passerouang,
van Rijke, in his letters of
25 February and
24 March acceptable. The commander and the brave regent there,
Niti Nagarra, offered to carry out the operation themselves. They could use the pantjallangs (boats), the bark, and the defenses that were already in that area, as well as employ some of the ships that the regents had to prepare against pirates.
Regarding the
Balemboan affairs, the writer submitted something to the high authorities.
The writer requested permission to follow the plan with some changes he thought advisable. He respectfully asked for reinforcement with some soldiers and sailors, because:
- The continuing high death rate in the eastern corner meant more than 100 men were lacking from the required number along the coast
- Sailors were so scarce that the 2 mentioned pantjallangs could barely be manned
- There was constant demand to provide sailors to arriving ships to replace their sick crew members
- Ship captains rarely sent their sick to shore as long as there was hope of recovery on board
- Most of these sick sailors found their graves there
- In March alone, 10 sailors from the ships Gouverneur Generaal and Barbara Theodora had been buried from the hospital
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0479
A report was written from
5 April 1773 about leadership issues in several regions of
Java's east coast.
The writer did not trust someone (name unclear from text) to take on the government of a regency alone, partly because locals might see him as a foreigner and possibly someone born in
Bali, which would make him unsuitable. The writer was also concerned that if certain points mentioned by resident
Schophoff in his letter of
14 March were confirmed, this person's merits would decrease significantly.
For the
Tinkelsewoesche area, the writer requested that someone familiar with the region be appointed who had connections to the regents of
Joana Pattij or
Damak and could quickly get assistance when needed. The writer asked for favorable consideration of
Marts Nipojo.
Regarding
Maas Alit, reports indicated:
- His father had been grand minister under Prince Pattij in Balemboangang and was always well-respected
- According to resident Schophoff's letter of 25 February, the current ministers Loera and other minor heads were very willing to accept Maas Alit as their regent
- Since Jacanagara's departure left no bad consequences and affairs were being managed successfully by two ministers, there seemed no urgency to rush the appointment
Commander
Luzac suggested in his letter of
12 March that the election could wait until common people in the villages were divided and placed under their minor heads. The writer had not yet proceeded with appointing a regent.
A proposal was made to divide the land under two regents: the eastern part under
Maas Alit and the western part under a certain
Soemodirono, who was in
Samarang and had been advisor and guardian of the current second regent of
Soerabaja. However, the writer wanted to wait for investigation results among the common people and information about whether the two ministers who had been managing affairs since
Jacanagara's departure continued to give satisfaction and could be trusted.
The writer suggested provisionally appointing
Maas Alit as regent without specific district assignment, while postponing judgment on dividing the lands and appointing a second regent until peace was fully restored and knowledgeable people had investigated the extent and condition of the lands, the location, size and population of the villages.
Regarding the island of
Noessa, the writer had previously on
4 March rejected plans to take a chance on
Noessa and insisted on strict observance of orders from
9 December 1772. However, on
12 March the writer approved orders to prevent a plan that, according to unconfirmed rumors, the head
Bappa Sanie (allegedly from
Bancahoeloe) was said to have devised to make a landing on
Java near
Twee Gillem.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0477
- On 5 April 1773, a report was sent from Java's east coast about various matters at the local courts, where everything was going well.
- The emperor had recently sent the reporter two Javanese men: one who had tried to sneak armed into the emperor's palace, and another who was accused of being a troublemaker. Both claimed to be subjects of the Malaam court.
- The reporter sent both men to Djojocarta with orders to chief Lapro to hand them over to the sultan for punishment.
- The sultan permanently banished the first man to the desert of Karabean (described as a very unpleasant place in the Pajitaan region), even though it appeared he had committed his offense during a fever. The second man was declared innocent and freed.
- The sultan mentioned during this incident that he would prefer such matters between him and the emperor to be handled without the involvement or knowledge of the Company.
- The reporter instructed chief Lapro to let this pass unnoticed, but to refer any further issues directly to the reporter.
- The reporter asked the authorities for their opinion on this matter, believing it was best to keep the princes from thinking they were independent and from trusting each other too much, by maintaining current practices as long as this could be done without causing offense.
- Regarding the situation in Balemboan, the authorities would find details in letters exchanged with commander Euzac during the year (copies enclosed).
- The search for the main rebel leaders Bappa Larat, Bappa Endo, Pa Soemprong, and Wilondo had so far been unsuccessful.
- Bappa Larat had been captured by a group of loyal men from Palemboan but escaped again due to poor supervision by his guards.
- There was ongoing sickness and death among both Europeans and local people, with locals continuously deserting.
- The people from Madura were unwilling to serve; although recently reinforced by 400 to 500 men, they were said to be useless due to their bad behavior.
- The reporter ordered that desertions by the Madura people should be overlooked but they should not be ordered back, as this would give them an excuse in the future. However, if they deserted on their own, this would provide a reason to require others in case of emergency.
- Instead, the reporter pressed for completing the Sumanappers force to 200 men at Adirogo, as they seemed necessary to block the western route for the remaining rebels and prevent them from Moessa, in case they tried to undertake something toward Gittem Batoe Deloe and then toward Lamadjang.
- Due to the great weakness of the Europeans (who were of little use) and 3 Company men from the east, the reporter gave permission to recruit people from across the water (not Javanese) for this purpose, hoping the authorities would approve this.
- The reporter requested permission to send back Captain Lieutenant Henrich (who was currently in Sourabaija recovering his health) to the main station if he could be spared, along with an extra fireworks expert or the only remaining artillerist, since extra Lieutenant Smedeken had recently died.
- The regent of Taxanagara had left Balemboan at
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0475
Luzac was ordered to pay the only remaining debt for received money, totaling 5,600 rijksdaalders. The employees together were reminded again of the old letter from 4 November 1771 not to keep more than 5,000 rijksdaalders, since the cash balance at the end of February had amounted to 2,800 rijksdaalders and 16 stuivers.
Regarding the construction of a new residence for the resident in Rembang, the writer asked to refer to what was mentioned in the general letter being sent. For the major repairs needed to the stone piers of the bridge in Japara, a specification and cost estimate would be prepared and submitted once engineer Soutman returned from Surakarta and Yogyakarta.
Instructions were sent to Surabaya for the carpenter foreman Dexter, who had traveled there, to provide a cost estimate for repairing the small fort at Triffel and constructing a new wall behind it. However, making a plan for rebuilding the Belvidera redoubt and arranging proper storage places for gunpowder and weapons in Surabaya would remain postponed until the engineer could be spared from his current work on fortifications and warehouses.
Following the qualification in the respected letters from 8 December 1712, the writer opened, read, and properly resealed letters from the Javanese governor. The writer thanked for the trust placed in him. The letters would remain in his keeping and their contents would be observed when necessary. Proper records were made at the secretariat and he would ensure nothing of their content leaked out.
The princes, according to the writer's letters to them and their replies (copies included under L: A: and B.), had fully confirmed themselves with the settlement of village disputes. Work was currently progressing successfully on exchanging and returning lands to each party, after which the register of each share would be started.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0474
5 April 1773, from Java's east coast, it was stated that 1,000 coijangs (units) of rice needed to be delivered completely. This was ordered under threat of punishment as written in article 3 of the contract agreement passed on 20 October 1772. However, there was fear that they would not be able to meet their promises for this year due to lack of workers to help with farming.
The debts for 1771 and 1772 had been reduced in January and February to 1,471 coijangs. A reduction was granted, bringing the total down to 1,538 coijangs. It was ordered that rice delivered after 1 March would be used to reduce the debt for the current year. This change was made in favor of the company, since 67 coijangs that had been delivered were already counted toward reducing the previous year's debts. It was hoped this adjustment would be approved.
Efforts were made to convince the most important regents that by leasing out their territories and lands they were harming themselves and burdening their subjects. It was expected that many would be more careful about this in the future. They would help prevent being further exploited by the hardworking nature of the Chinese. The problem of Chinese influence had become too deeply rooted and needed to be stopped, as the deep penetration of that nation was harmful.
A request was made for permission to renew the prohibition against bringing newcomers to this coast. The number of newcomers was already very large everywhere and kept growing through frequent arrivals from Banjarmasin, Pasir, Palembang, Riau, Johor, Terengganu, and other places where junks (boats) came from.
The old contracts of the various regents would be renewed from time to time with necessary changes and additions, following the authorization given. Surabaya's officials were not only informed of the prohibition against further circulation of whole and half duits (coins) on credit in exchange for silver coins, but were instead permitted to receive up to 5 percent in copper coins in cash from lease payments from time to time. The same would also happen here.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0473
- Petrus Albertus van der Parra served as Governor General alongside the Council members of the Dutch East India Company in the Dutch East Indies.
- A letter dated 2 March was received, along with secret correspondence and attachments from Java's east coast covering the period from 5 April to 25 August 1773.
- The writer expressed gratitude for approval of his actions during his journey to Surabaya and regarding matters concerning Palembang and other affairs.
- The regents of Demak were granted permission to cut wood for the Company in their own forests, with an obligation to deliver 1,000 beams annually to Kudus.
- In 1774 and the following year, they also had to deliver the 1,000 beams that were still owed for 1771 and 1772 at Kaliwungu.
- Cutting wood for anyone other than the Company was forbidden, with penalties of fines for regents and imprisonment for common people who violated this rule or damaged the forests.
- The ruler of Madura paid the 60 oijangs of copper coins he owed for 1772 in cash at 50 rijksdaalders per oijang.
- Thanks were expressed on behalf of the regents of Japara, Sumenep, Pamekasan, Surabaya, Lamongan, and Malang, as well as the Paccalongang officials, for favorable decisions made regarding proposals in their favor.
- The first regent of Japara received the honorary title of adipati along with an increase in his share and additional villages.
- He and his colleague received a reduction of 1,000 beams and an increase in buffalo payments for the remaining beams they still had to deliver annually, along with other granted remissions.
- The Paccalongang officials would soon have 1,000 patjas returned to them that had been taken from them against specific orders.
- The regents of Surabaya were specifically told they could expect no more reductions and had to ensure their reduced delivery quota of 1,000 was met in the current and following years.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0471
A letter was received dated
2 March of the most recent year. This letter was addressed to
Petrus Albertus van der Parra, who served as Governor General, along with the Council members of
Netherlands India. The letter concerned various territories and peoples, including the
Tongse territories and peoples, the
Pradjakan territories and peoples, and the
Sobrangse and
Djambers territories. Additionally, secret letters and attachments were received from
Java's east coast between
5 April and
25 August 1773, relating to
Cheribon and
Bantam.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0470
This document is a list or index of various letters, reports, and declarations related to Dutch colonial administration in Java. The documents date from 26 April 1773 to 25 August 1773.
The records include:
- Copies of letters between van der Burgh (a Dutch official) and Luzac, the commander at Sourabaya, written on 26 April 1773, May 1773, 27 June 1773, 9 May 1773, and 4 June 1773
- A document of alliance from the regent of the district of Tjinkelsen, following Marta Widjo
- A declaration from 10 January 1773 by the local leader Pepatij Adien P' Jondro Rogoro, the clerk Radoen Soero Dirone, and official Soero Dewertje about the poor condition of the district of Toeban
- A confirmation document from 10 January 1773 regarding statements given by local officials
- 4 declarations by Javanese individuals Setjd Wigoend, Polla Singo, Wet Jono, and Nello Soeto
- A document from the Lieutenant of the Empire to commander Luzac about their mission along the southern sea and the military posts at Bambang, Gestem Plindo, Poeger, and Batoe Oeloe
- An overview of ships, European and native military forces needed for an attack
- A report from commander Burghard on the ship "de Bestendigheid" to resident Schophoff about his survey of the harbor at Sackum
- A report from resident Schophoff and officials Jenigen and Kregel about their findings in Banjoewangie
- A brief description of the village Sontang provided by official Soetanning
- A letter dated 30 June 1773 from resident Schophoff at Balemboangang to commander Luzal
- A report about the Centong region and places in front of the island Moessa
- Considerations about Balemboangang from commander Luzac to their High Excellencies
- A secret letter dated 25 August 1773 from governor van der Burgh to their High Excellencies
- A copy of a translated Javanese document about an expedition to Moessa
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0469
The Political Council in Padang on Sumatra's West Coast held meetings from 30 January to 2 February 1773. The council discussed several matters:
- They talked about the situation in Priamang and whether people could travel to Baros. Someone answered that everything was calm and ready to receive the commission, but it was necessary to have the raja come from there. Officials would need to persuade him through friendly means.
- Instructions were prepared for ensign Kaijsel, which would be given to him so he could travel to Baros.
- A letter from Baros was read, reporting that a Panglima Lauwt was appearing in those districts again. The resident feared an attack and requested a small boat and other supplies. A Malay letter was also sent that confirmed this report.
- After considering these reports and remembering events from 1771, the council decided to send ensign L. Kaijsel to Baros with the requested ammunition and supplies. He would receive proper instructions.
- On 2 February, ensign Kaijsel arrived and was summoned before the council.
- Commander Roeland Palm, chief merchant and commander over Sumatra's West Coast, presented a private letter from Baros to the meeting.
The council members present included: D.E. Adam Frederik Adami (merchant and first administrator), Challier (junior merchant), Joseph (departing secretary of politics and elected chief of Poulo Chineo), Iesaias Ehrentzaut (junior merchant and fiscal officer), Frans van Kerchem (junior merchant and 2nd administrator), and Ian Marthin Scheffer (ensign and head of the militia).
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0458
March 19, 1773, a report was sent from Malacca. Both brothers stated that they wanted to be warned some time in advance before any breakup would happen. They also showed fear and asked the commander not to interpret their refusal in a bad way. They said that if the East India Company decided to break up many things at once, they might sometimes change their mind. However, because all of this was uncertain guessing, no one could rely on it.
It was certain that the post at Pera was very important for the East India Company for various reasons. These reasons had been explained most clearly by former governor Mister Thomas Schippers and second-in-command Kretschiar in their separate letter of September 15, 1772 to the High Lords.
After careful consideration, it was decided to report all these circumstances respectfully to the High Lords at the first opportunity. In the meantime, while waiting for the positive orders from the High Lords, they would continue to operate at Pera in the old way. They did not feel authorized to break things up because no final decision had yet been made by the highest authorities.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0455
- Wednesday 10 October 1721: The writer informed his highness that a small boat would be sent on 14 October in case Aroe Palacca wanted to send a letter. The translator Blij returned with the message that his highness thanked the writer and would be informed about it.
- Thursday 11 October: Nothing noteworthy happened.
- Friday 12 October: The merchant informed the writer that the Pongauwa had sent someone to him that afternoon. The Pongauwa offered the merchant a present and asked for his help to marry the widow Datuo Pamana. The merchant refused because he did not dare to get involved in this matter.
- Saturday 13 October: The king of Bonij and Aroe Palacca sent a letter to their grandson, the former king of Goa in Ceylon, which they asked the writer to forward to Batavia under his cover.
- Monday 15 October: The writer informed both the king of Bonij and Aroe Palacca that he had sent the letter to their grandson, the former king of Goa, to Batavia with the bark d'Jda. They both thanked him for this. Aroe Palacca told the translator Blij that the goods her grandson had requested were not with his mother Coaing Bellasarie but with the king of Bima.
- Tuesday 16 October: Nothing happened.
- Wednesday 17 October: A report was made about the pass holders.
- Thursday 18 October: Nothing happened.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 3389 / 0014
A Chinese boat with a Portuguese pass suffered a shipwreck. The officers and sailors from the boat were examined but were found free from any suspicion. The failure to send the yacht
de Grijpvogel (the Griffin) from
Makassar to this place was dealt with through a reprimand.
Regarding the Chinese small sailing vessel with a Portuguese pass that arrived in this province in the previous year
1693 at
Ternate and suffered shipwreck there, about which notification was given on
8 December 1693, some people from this group arrived here from
Makassar. These people were examined and found free from all suspicion. Therefore, orders were sent to
Ternate by letter of
25 February of this year to also examine the others from their group if they had fallen into Dutch hands. If this examination agreed with what was done here, then these people would be set free and allowed to depart directly to their destination, just as had happened with the others from here.
The fact that at
Ternate in the year
1693 the Dutch orders had not been followed regarding the dispatch of the yacht
de Grijpvogel to
Makassar, but instead it was sent directly to
Batavia, was dealt with under a serious reprimand by letter of
25 February of this year, considering that the reasons given could be considered to contain some appearance of justification.
Regarding the payments to the new king
Toleko, and what had been provided from the Company's treasury through Dutch officials in
Ternate for the maintenance of his highness's children and blood relatives of the deceased king
Amsterdam, this was deducted from the king's subsidy on Dutch orders. Then this king, according to the notification of
8 December 1693, was still owed 10,360 rixdollars or 31,080 guilders. Orders were given by letter of
25 February of this year to pay this amount to his highness under proper receipt and thus to settle accounts with him once and for all.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1540 / 0135
On May 30, 1736, Marcus Benjamin, a merchant in Amsterdam, appeared before Daniel van den Brink, a public notary authorized by the Court of Holland. He appointed Moses Benjamins, also living in Amsterdam, to handle all his legal affairs. This included:
- Defending and pursuing legal cases
- Appearing before the city court
- Following legal procedures
- Requesting and executing verdicts
- Filing appeals
- Seizing persons and goods
- Making settlements
- Acknowledging debts
The document was witnessed by Pieter Clockener and Abraham Witte in Amsterdam.
View transcript NL-AsdSAA / 1338035 / 556
On August 13, 1736, Judith Polak, widow of Benjamin Arons, and Moses Benjamins, son of Benjamin Arons, appeared before notary Daniel van den Brink in Amsterdam. They declared that Benjamin Arons had died in the night between August 5 and 6 and was buried on Monday August 6 according to Jewish customs. Due to the seven-day Jewish mourning period, during which Jews are not allowed to sign their names or conduct business, they could not file this document earlier. Once the mourning period ended, they wanted to declare that the burial of their husband and father was carried out only to fulfill their final duty to him, as they were unaware of his estate's condition. They intended to recover the burial costs from his estate. They emphasized that by arranging the burial, they had not involved themselves in managing the estate. They explicitly retained their right to either accept or reject the inheritance after careful consideration and gathering information about the estate. This declaration was witnessed by Abraham Witte and Abraham van der Poel.
View transcript NL-AsdSAA / 1338038 / 287
In
Amsterdam on
December 8, 1634, a marriage contract was signed between
Johanna Moses, widow of
Salomon Metz, and
Moses Benjamin. The contract detailed the upcoming marriage between
Moses Benjamin and
Regle Salomon Metz (daughter of
Johanna and
Salomon).
The key terms included:
- A dowry of 550 Caroli guilders from mother to groom
- A man's seat in the German Jewish Synagogue in Amsterdam, previously owned by Salomon Metz, marked with "N"
- Complete ownership rights of the synagogue seat transferred to Moses Benjamin
- A guarantee that if Moses Benjamin lost possession of the seat, he would be compensated based on a value determined by either two chosen German Jewish representatives or the synagogue leaders
The contract was witnessed by
Nicolaes Lamoen and
Ahus Sakers, and recorded by notary
M. Servaas.
View transcript NL-AsdSAA / 1511077 / 265
On April 13 and 14, 1698, several people appeared before notary Michiel Servaas in Amsterdam. These included:
They testified on behalf of Maria Brisco about her employment with Adriaana Hacquaert, who lived on the Heere Gracht. Pieter de Sterke, who had been Hacquaert's bookkeeper, was asked to calculate what goods Brisco had received and if it amounted to a year's wages.
Another document dated April 10, 1698 shows Judith Levij (wife of Nathan Kohen) and Gerson Nathan Kohen testifying about a marriage agreement between Moses Benjamin and Keyle Salemonis, daughter of Anna Moses (widow of Salomon Metz). Moses Benjamin promised to pay 150 guilders if Anna Moses fell into poverty.
A third document dated April 15, 1698 records Otto ten Dam, an apothecary and guardian of Anna van Swanenburgh, selling an obligation worth 3,300 guilders to Adam Tarwe. This obligation was issued by the government of Holland and West Friesland at the Leiden office on September 20, 1656.
View transcript NL-AsdSAA / 1511079 / 237
On December 19, 1737, Adrian Baars, a public notary in Amsterdam, was asked by treasurers Nathan Coppels, Salamon Samuel Moses, and assessors Benjamin Joseph and Sarboche Samuel Moses from the brotherhood of Shomer Mitzvot (protectors of the commandments) of the German Jewish community to deliver a notice to Samuel Meijer.
The complainants stated that Meijer was wrongfully keeping in his possession:
- A chest containing money
- Documents and papers
- All brotherhood books
- A copper crown
- Other items belonging to their brotherhood
The brotherhood claimed this prevented them from holding their ceremonial meetings properly and carrying out their charitable work. They demanded through the notary that Meijer return all items against proper receipt. They also warned they would seek compensation for all costs and damages if he refused.
On December 9, 1727, treasurers Nathan Cappels and Talomon Samuel Mozes, along with assessors Benjamin Joseph and Hartoele Samuel Mozes, had filed a similar complaint against Daniel Meijer Levij for wrongfully holding the same types of items belonging to their brotherhood.
View transcript NL-AsdSAA / 1176059 / 456
In this letter from Dutch East India Company times, officials reported on various trade and political developments in the
East Indies. The Chinese traders at
Tabon and
Carao had seized 2 junks, which affected trade prospects. They left 80 pieces of eight mainly to buy cotton yarn.
The success at
Banjarmasin impressed other Muslim nations, as its king commanded 50,000 men. His city was easily burned and destroyed, which made trading at
Succadana safer. The English had also established a presence there.
At
Grece, the chief merchant
Gurry was ordered to buy 10-12 Chinese silk picols at 70-90 pieces of eight each, to be sent to
Macassar for 200% profit.
The King of
Goribaya received a Portuguese-language letter and gift from the Governor-General, which helped Dutch relations since the Portuguese had delayed responding to the king's request.
At
Japara, officials found:
- 15-20 foreign trading junks
- The king had gone to meet the Mataram ruler
- The Mataram had 150,000 troops heading to Goribaya
- Rice was cheaper than in Grece or Macassar
- Deep water access for boats
- Good prices for livestock and provisions
- Chinese traders moving from Jortan and Bantam due to better treatment
The writer suggested moving the trading post from
Grece to
Japara due to better ship access. This was proposed to President
Matheo Coteelijk at
Bantam.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1053 / 0472
In
Cambodia and
Siam in
1632, several significant events occurred.
Father Francis Buzomi carried a message from the governor of
Manila to the King of
Siam regarding a captured Spanish ship and its crew, demanding justice for
Father Pulio Casar Marge, an Italian who died in captivity.
Trade activities included:
- 4 Japanese ships visited Cambodia, with 3 returning and 1 heading to Faifoo with rice and silk cargo
- The King of Spain granted 10,000 reals to Malacca to build 3 galleys in Cambodia
- Pepper from Latana and Ligor was purchased by Portuguese and Japanese traders
In
Cochinchina:
- Silk prices increased to 120 guilders, up from 90 guilders two years prior
- The King was at war with Tonkin and Champa
- Catholic priests and Jesuits were expelled
- Pepper, copper, and rice were actively traded
Jeronimo de Silvera, former captain-general of
Macau, disappeared during his journey to
India, leading to fears about his fate.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1110 / 0402
Here is a merchant's report written in
Batavia about trade and shipping matters in the Dutch East Indies around
1650:
The merchant describes sending 89 piculs of sandalwood worth 2,748 florins. He mentions problems with traders in
Larentoucque who had promised to deliver 45-50 bahar of goods but secretly loaded them onto a Macassar ship instead.
He reports that an Italian free citizen's ship in
Batavia was taken by the English in
Macassar and sold to the Portuguese. The Dutch ship
St. Nicolas tried to pursue it but failed to catch up due to unfavorable winds.
The writer complains that the English in
Macassar are supplying their enemies with:
- Ammunition
- Meat and bacon
- Pitch and tar
- Ropes
- Cannons
He discusses plans for trade along the coasts of
Timor and requests proper equipment for three ships, including a new frigate under construction that will carry 6 guns. The merchant criticizes the poor state of supplies provided and warns about the dangerous waters around
Timor with its storms and winds.
The report ends with plans to send out 4 champans (small vessels) for trade, working with local rulers and Christians living near the fort. He also mentions allowing free citizens to engage in trade, though their first attempt was unsuccessful.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1094 / 0777
In Macassar on October 8, 1651, officials received a message saying their arrival was welcome. They were allowed to appear the next day, provided they would send advance notice. They then called their council together and discussed various matters. They made decisions which were recorded in a resolution document, but the secretary had lost this document.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1186 / 0933
On October 9, 1681, in Macassar, the first harbor master and two interpreters came to the trading post with many armed men to escort officials to the king's court. Around 10 o'clock, they rode there on horseback in a specific order:
- First, a young boy in white carried the King of Ternate's letter in a golden dragon-decorated bowl
- Two people carried decorative parasols
- Next came the king's gift - pink damask with yellow silk covering
- This was followed by other gifts:
- Crimson red cloth
- Three palesias
- 55 catties of Banda mace
- 200 pounds of nutmeg
- 200 pounds of cloves in 20 small bags
- A case of Persian rosewater
- 16 guards led by a sergeant
- The king's steward
- Merchants and other officers in pairs on horseback
- Servants at the end
At court, they found the king with his nobles. They were seated and made their proper greetings. They thanked the king for his friendship and requested permission to keep their trading post for another year, even though their ships were already overloaded. Prince Craijn Patingelo answered on behalf of the king, saying that as long as they continued to behave well, the friendship would remain strong. The king granted their request to stay another year, though this would not break the original agreement. The King of Ternate's letter was then read aloud publicly.
View transcript NL-HaNA / 1.04.02 / 1186 / 0935
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