NY MILITIA

The militia normally provided support in skirmishes and battles in their area and controlled areas that would of otherwise have fallen to the British. They could be called upon at any time, for any length of time, but could be required to serve only three months out of state.

Any able-bodied man had to serve when "warned" unless he was incapacitated. If incapacitated he had to contribute toward furnishing and equipping another man.

The Van Ness' Regiment of Militia also know as the 9th Albany County Militia Regimentwas called up in July, 1777 at Claverack, New York to reinforce the Gen. Horatio Gates's Continental Army during the Saratoga Campaign. The regiment served in Brigadier General Abraham Ten Broek's Brigade. With the defeat of General John Burgoyne's British Army on October 17, 1777 the regiment stood down.