The couple emigrated to the United States in 1834, settling first in Port Jervis, New York, then in Fallsburgh.
On January 29, 1867, he married Marilda S. "Lillie" Ernhout (1842–1867) who died suddenly eight months later while he was in England.
He was nominated by this party for the seat in the New York State Senate (14th D.) vacated by the death of Jacob Hardenbergh.
He took his seat in the 95th New York State Legislature on November 22, 1872, during the special session called for the trial of the corrupt judges; and sat in the 96th New York State Legislature in 1873.
English scientist and divine William Scoresby DD (1789–1857) was his uncle.