Taking a great interest in the affairs of the State, he represented his county for a term or two in the Legislature. He married Magdalen, daughter of Taber Bentley and granddaughter of Col. James Vanderburgh, who was one of the most influential citizens of Beekman, Dutchess County, and a worthy representative of an ancient family, who came from Holland and settled in that region at an early day. He was a member of the Provincial Congress in 177fi, and a zealous friend of the patriot cause. At his house Washington and Lafayette were frequently entertained, with many of their brother officers. The mother of the present surrogate possessed the characteristics of a true and noble-hearted woman, which greatly endeared her to her family and friends ; like her husband, she was in sympathy with the principles of the Society of Friends, and excelled in those qualities which have made the members of that faith models of morality and virtue. Between herself and her children there existed a most affectionate confidence, and their joys and sorrows were made her own.

The children of Robert and Magdalen Coffin were ten in number. Jane, the oldest (now. deceased), married Caleb Morgan, of Poughkeepsie, and Alexander H., the second child, is living in that city. Hezekiah R., Charles and Sarah, wife of Henry M. Swift, live in Dutchess County. Eliza married George B. Caldwell, of Poughkeepsie. George W. is mayor of Santa Barbara, Cal. William H., deceased, left a family now living in New York, and Robert G. is on the old homestead, about half a mile south of the village of Mechanic, Washington township, Dutchess County.