Jacob Crouse was born in Palatinate Germany and immigrated to America in 1710 settling in the Sand Hill area of what is now Fort Plain. At that time the area was known as Canajoharie. He owned much of the property which would eventually become the Village of Fort Plain. He married Catherine Elizabeth Nellis in 1724. They had 8 children. His sons, George and Robert, served in the Revolutionary War. Both fought at the Battle of Oriskany on August 6, 1777. Robert, who had attained the rank of captain, was killed in the battle. George (1740-1824) married Catherine Klock (1744-1819). George and his son,Henry (1787-1864), were brickmakers. Their brick manufacturing enterprise was located at the end of West Street in the village. Henry built his home on Orchard Street where the former Duffy home is located. The Crouses’ bricks built many of the homes in Fort Plain.