Cornelius Van Cott


Cornelius C. Van Cott was the owner of the New York Giants of the National League from through. In 1893 he purchased the franchise from John B. Day. In 1895, he sold the franchise to Andrew Freedman. He served as Postmaster of New York City, and also on the board of fire commissioners.

Biography

He was born on February 12, 1838 in Greenwich, New York to Richard Gabriel Van Cott and Caroline Case. In 1860 he married Fanny Thompson.

Professional life

As a youth, he worked in a print shop for the American Tract Society.
He subsequently held other positions, including vice-president of Etna Fire Insurance.
He was a member of the New York State Senate in 1888 and 1889. On May 1, 1889, he took office as Postmaster of New York City.

Death

He died on October 25, 1904, at his temporary residence at 163 West 86th Street, in Manhattan, of "heart disease".