Membership eligibility is considered for individuals at least eighteen years of age, of respectable standing in their communities, of good moral character, and who are descended from a person residing in Fort Orange, the colony of Rensselaerwyck, or the village of Beverwyck before 1665, or in other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the Court of Rensselaerwyck before the establishment of their own courts. The court of Esopus was established on May 16, 1661. Members in that area are eligible prior to that date.