FRANCIS DE CORDY,
Who has been an honored resident of Norfolk since 1835, was born in
New York City, December 20, 1814. His father was Thomas David
De Cordy, his mother Anne Brooks, daughter of Francis Brooks of
Norfolk, Virginia, and Jane Selque of Philadelphia. His ancestors were
Huguenots, religious refugees from France, who came to the colony
of New York in 1685.
In New York City, August, 1837, Francis De Cordy married Mary G.
Schuyler, born in that city, in August, 1819. She was the daughter of
Peter Schuyler, whose father was Peter Schuyler of the renowned
Knickerbocker family. Her mother was Eliza White, daughter of the
Rev. White, a Presbyterian clergyman of New York.
The record of the children of Mr. and Mrs. De Cordy is: Robert C.,
died in infancy, Robert C., 2d, volunteer engineer, United States service,
on flag ship "Philadelphia," died in 1863, Francis, jr., deceased, Victor
C. and Gordon, Frances G. and Rosalie. Gordon married Catharine
Putnam, of Rochester, New York, a daughter of Israel H. Putnam, who
was a grandson of Israel Putnam of Revolutionary fame.
After Mr. De Cordy came to Norfolk in 1835 he engaged in business
as master ship joiner, which occupation he followed until 1864. Since
that date he has been a merchant, dealer in coal, at 11 William street.
He was mayor of the city of Norfolk, 1870-2.
