3. THE PHILIPSE FAMILY: A CASE STUDY

The Philipses inserted themselves into the international trading network that dominated the Atlantic World, mastered its mechanics, and comprehended its risks. They understood the European system of exporting raw materials from far-flung colonies while simultaneously creating markets in these colonies for manufactured goods and other commodities. Frederick Philipse also entered into the slave trade and speculated in land. The Upper Mills property was a vital part of the Philipses' worldwide business.

Frederick Philipse conducted business in New York under both Dutch and English rule. He immigrated to New Netherland in 1653 as foreman of construction for the Dutch West India Company. Through shrewd and diversified trading, advantageous marriages, and political skill, he became one of the richest men in the colony. Frederick Philipse's first wife, Margaret Hardenbroeck, who conducted her own international shipping business, and their son Adolph, became partners in the family's varied enterprises.