This was particularly the case with Samuel Kip, Esq., of a family which from the first settlement by the Dutch had possessed a grant of land at Kip's Bay, and in other parts of New York island- Members of this family were named as officers under the Crown in the royal charter granted when the British first took possession of the colony in 1664, and in that given thirty years later. Having been always associated with the government, and from their landed interest wielding an influence in its affairs, they were naturally predisposed to espouse th'i royal cause. In addition to this, Mr. Kip's estate was near that of Col. de Lancey, and a close intimacy had always existed between them. He was, therefore, easily induced to accept a cap»

COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER. 255

Lancey's Horse. In consequence of his familiarity with the county, Lt. Col. James de Lancey was stationed much of his time in Westchester, to keep open the means of procuring supplies. His corps made free with the cattle of that part of the country, and got the soubriquet of" Cow Boys," in revenge for their knowledge in the article of beef." The colonel finally fixed his residence in Nova Scotia, and in 1797, was sworn in as a member of the council of that colony. He died at Annapolis, N. S., about the year 1809. Martha Tippett, his widow, also died there in 1827, aged 73, and where his sons are still living. Oliver de Lancey, third son of Peter and Alice, threw up his commission in the Briiish service at the commencement of the Revolutionary war. His children are resident in the town. Peter, the fourth son, and Lt. Col. Warren de Lancey, besides four daughters. a