Robert Livingston the Younger

Robert Livingston the Younger (1663 – April 1725), sometimes known as Robert Livingston Jr., or The Nephew was a wealthy merchant and political figure in colonial Albany, New York. Early life Livingston was born in 1663 in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was the son of James Livingston (1646–1673) and nephew of Robert Livingston the Elder. Once established in Albany, his uncle wrote to his father in Edinburgh, advising him to send his son Robert. Robert the Younger emigrated to North America, by way of London, in November 1687. He settled in Albany, where he managed his uncle's Albany enterprises. Career After arriving in North America in 1687, Livingston's first job involved assisting his uncle as city and County Clerk. In 1699, he was appointed Deputy Secretary and Deputy Clerk, positions he held until 1707, when his cousin Philip Livingston became of age. In 1708, Livingston was elected Alderman for the First Ward. In 1709, he was appointed Recorder (or Deputy Mayor) of the City. At the same time, he was able to prosper in business, using family connections and experience to supply both settler and military customers. In 1710, Livingston was appointed mayor of Albany, succeeding Johannes Abeel and serving in that role until 1719 when he was succeeded by Myndert Schuyler. During his tenure, Albany grew from a trading post to the area's major supply and services center. Livingston was also appointed as one of the English colony's Commissioners for Indian Affairs.