Catalina Trico and her husband, Joris Jansen Rapalje, were among the first European settlers in New Netherland. Initially sent to the wilderness near Fort Orange (Albany), they built a bark-covered fort, cultivated land, and had their first child, Sarah Rapalje—the first European child born in New Amsterdam. Catalina recalled harmonious relations with Native Americans during her time at Fort Orange. However, safety concerns led the couple to relocate south to New Amsterdam , where they thrived at Pearl Street, before eventually retiring to Long Island.