Early Life and Education Born: February 12, 1813, in Beekman, New York Died: June 3, 1891 Benson John Lossing was born into a family of Dutch descent. His father, John Lossing, was a farmer. His mother, Miriam Dorland Lossing, was a Quaker. Lossing’s formal education was limited due to his parents' early death in 1824. He began an apprenticeship with Adam Henderson, a clock and watchmaker in Poughkeepsie, learning jewelry and watchmaking skills. Later, he entered the printing business under E.B. Killey’s guidance, gaining experience in journalism and publishing. He became par…