General Henry Bell Van Rensselaer A standing view CDV with sword Back marked E. & H.T. Anthony, New York.His father was founder of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. During the Civil War, Henry reentered the army as a brigadier general, serving as chief of staff under General Winfield Scott and inspector general until his death. Van Rensselaer died of typhoid fever in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1864 and was buried in Grace Episcopal Churchyard, Jamaica, Queens. His descendants include actress Jane Wyatt and musician David Crosby.