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Four hundred and one years ago today, Catalyntje Trico and Joris Rapelje got on a ship in Amsterdam and sailed across the Atlantic Ocean to the Dutch Colony of New Netherland. I’ve spent years of my life wondering about their choice to take a risk and make a new life for themselves. 

My novel, “Catalyntje Trico: A Life in New Amsterdam,” gives a detailed account of Catalyntje and Joris’ lives. Here is an excerpt from the day they set sail from the dock of Amsterdam.

​​Light snow began to fall as Catalyntje and Joris stood on the ship’s deck, the chilled January air enveloping them. Catalyntje seized the ship’s railing as a sudden jolt pulled her off balance. She held tightly with one hand and waved with the other to those on the dock. As the ship left the harbor, it rocked fiercely back and forth. Catalyntje stood beside Joris and looked back at Amsterdam, the place she had called home. Then she took a deep breath and turned towards the open water. We will be alright, she thought to herself. But as she watched, the familiar canal houses got smaller, and she could no longer hear the cheering crowd. Soon, the only sound was the deep water striking the ship’s sides. She took hold of Joris’ arm and looked up at him.

“We will be fine,” he said with a confident smile. His assurance was all she needed to quell the sudden apprehension she felt. Goodbye, Amsterdam, my home, she thought with a tight-lipped smile.

If you are looking for the courage to take a risk and reach out further than you think, read about Catalynytje Trico’s life. She will inspire you.