Dictionary.net

(Reformed Dutch Church). This denomination originated in Holland, and its first synod was held in Antwerp in 1563. Emigrants from Holland brought its teachings to this country and a church was organized as early as 1619 in New Amsterdam. The denomination grew slowly, owing partly to persecutions from the English, but about 1737 felt strong enough to ask for a separate organization from the parent church in Holland. This was finally effected in 1772 through the agency of Dr. John H. Livingston, and in 1792 the new organization was completed. At that time there were 136 churches and fifty ministers. The constitution then adopted was revised in 1842, and again in 1874. The denomination in 1890 numbered 310,000 communicants, living largely in the Middle States, and some parts of the West.