From the Vaults: The Rapalje Cradle

Many are familiar with Catalina Trico, Joris Jansen Rapalje, and their daughter, Sarah Rapalje, who was the first child of European descent born in New Netherland. We found a copy of this sketch depicting the Rapalje/Rapelje/Rapelye family homestead in New Amsterdam during our office move. The chair, fireplace, mantle, and clock from the Rapalje family homestead are in the Brooklyn Museum, according to the text on the back of this framed picture. The sketch provides an interesting glimpse into everyday life in a New Netherland family home. Interested in learning more about the Rapaljes? Be sure to pick up a copy of Russell Shorto’s book, The Island at the Center of the World.