Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 3,653, John Ford, Penn.
Page 1

(8-1776)
Service
Penn.
Ford, John
Esther 
or Easther
Number
R. 3653
Contents
Page 2

Declaration
In order to attain the benefit of the third act of congress of the 4th July 1836.

State of Tennessee
Jefferson County. On this 20th day of March 1844 - personally appeared before the Subscriber a justice of the peace for the county and state afore said  Mrs Esther Ford a resident of said county Jefferson aged eighty five years in April last who being first duly sworn according to [illegible] on her oath made the following declaration in order to attain the benefit of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed July 4h  1836.  That she is the widow of John Ford who was a soldier in the war of the revolution he entered the service as a volunteer in the year 1776 in Cumberland county in the state of Pennsylvania as a private in the militia under the following named officers Captain John or Mathew Tindale given name not precisely recollected and served three months under the afore said Captain and was discharged he entered the second time as a private under Captain John Steel and served three months more and was again discharged he entered the service a third time as a lieutenant and was duly commissioned and served two tours of three months
Page 3

Each under Captain James Floyd in the county and state of Pennsylvania the last named service was in the latter part of the war of the revolution the afore said John Ford was in the following battles [illegible] at Long Island and Princetown and was in hearing of the battle of Bunker Hill.  She further declares that her husband the afore said John Ford had his commission at his death as a lieutenant and that she took his commission into her possession after his death and kept it for some years and it has been destroyed by accident - as will more fully appear by proof owing to the laps of [time] and her old age and inability she does not recollect the precise time her husband entered the service last she is certain to the time he served.  The [illegible] declares that she was married to the afore said John Ford on the day of seven [seventeen] hundred and seventy nine in Cumberland county in the state of Pennsylvania and that she remained a widow ever since that period as [will] more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto announced his last service was after the marriage.
Easther Ford 
here X mark [Easther signed with an x]
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me a justice of the peace for said county of Jefferson and state of Pennsylvania.  I further certify that the said Mrs Esther Ford is from bodily infirmity unable to attend court and that her statements are entitled to [credit]
B Snodd 
Justice of the peace from said county and state
Page 4

State of Tennessee
Jefferson county.  I William Minnes a clergyman of said county and state residing in the same hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Mrs Esther Ford who has sworn and subscribed to the foregoing declaration and that I believe her to be eighty six years of age in April [next] that she is reputed and lived in the neighborhood where she resides and that her [husband] and the afore said John Ford is believed to have been a revolutionary soldier.
William Minnes
Minister of the gospel

Sworn to an subscribed this 20th 1844 day of March before me a justice of the peace for Jefferson county and state of Tennessee.  I further certify that the above William Minnes is a clergyman residing in Jefferson county and state of Tennessee and who was sworn and subscribed to the above certificate.  I further certify that the said William Mines is entitled to full faith and [credit] as a clergyman.
B Snodd
Justice of the peace 
for Jefferson county
Page 5

Power of attorney
Know all men by these presents, shall I Mary Ford, of the county of Jefferson and state of Tennessee, do hereby [nominate], institute and appoint Jacob Newman of Knoxville Tennessee, my true and lawful attorney, in my name, place and stead [to prosecute] the government of the United States for all pension money which was due my late mother Elizabeth Ford, at the date of her death on account of the Revolutionary services of her husband and my late father John Ford, under any of the acts of Congress hereby giving my said attorney full powers, to examine all papers which may be on file in any of the departments in Washington city or else where, to file all additional evidence, and to [receive] all communications in relation to the same.  Hereby [ratifying] and confirming all [that] my attorney the said Jacob Newman may lawfully do in [premises] by virtue thereof.  In [testimony] where of I have [hereunto set] my hand this the 16th day of December AD 1832.
[Signed] and delivered
In the presence of James W Newman [signature]
Mary Ford [signature]
B Snodd [signature]
State of Tennessee 
County of Jefferson
Be it known that on this the 16th day of December AD 1832 before the subscriber [an acting] justice of the peace in and for the county and state afore said, Mary Ford personally appeared and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney
Page 6

As be her act and deeds, for the purposes therein [and signed.] . In [testimony] whereof I [have] [hereunto] set my hand the day and date above [mentioned]

O.B. Snodd

Justice of the peace for Jefferson County Pennsylvania
State of Pennsylvania
County of Jefferson 
S.S. [declaration]

Be it known that on this the 10th day of December AD 1812, before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for the county and state aforesaid, personally appeared, Mary Ford, aged sixty years [past], a resident of said county, and made oath in due form of law; that she is a daughter of John Ford, and Elizabeth Ford, who was an applicant for a Revolutionary Pension and widow of said John Ford. That her father, the said John Ford, served, as she always [understood], in the War of the American Revolution, in the militia of Cumberland County Pennsylvania, in the capacities of Ensign and Lieutenant, for the past nine months as Ensign and nine months as a Lieutenant, sometime between the years 1775-and 1780 AD, and some service as a private. That she affiant has often seen the commission of her father the said John Ford and that he was very careful during his lifetime in preserving it and had it wrapped around a small stick, and for the purposes which stick affiant has still in her possession That shortly after the death of affiant's father, said John Ford, she, affiant gave his commission to some children to play with and it was destroyed by them. Affiant does not recollect any thing that was written on said commission, but recollects [well] the "big seal", [attached to] it. Affiant further declared that she has often heard her father speak of his
Page 7

services in the "war of the American Revolution" and the many hardships and privations endured by him therein. Affiant has heard her father, said John Ford, repeatedly speak of Colonel Bell, Colonel Chambers and of Captain James Floger[?], his captain, but cannot recollect to have heard him speak of any more officers under whose command he was, but is positive of the above.  Affiant further declares that her father, the said John Ford, and affiants mother said Esther Ford, whose maiden name was Esther Anderson, were married in Cumberland County Pennsylvania, between the years, AD 1778 and 1780 and before the last service of affiants father te said John Ford.  Affiant Further declares that the "marriage service" was performed as she has heard her mother say, by one James Hagg. Affiant makes the foregoing declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of Jully the 4, 1836, and hopes to establish the marriage of her father the said John Ford to her mother the said Esther Ford "prior to the last service" by the act of Congress o May the 7th 1846; by the age of the oldest child of said John and Esther Ford. Affiant further declares that her sister, Sara Long, a daughter of the said John and Esther Ford is now in the seventy first year of her age and that said John and Esther Ford had one child two years older than said Sarah Long.  Affiant further declares that her father the said John Ford died in the year 1818 or 1819 A.D. leaving a surviving widow, affiants mother, who died in the 4th day of February A.D. 1848, leaving the following only surviving children. Sarah Long, Margret Mansfield and the affiant in this declaration.  Affiant makes the foregoing declaration in order to procure the benefits
Page 8

of the act of Congress passed July the 4th 1836 and for proof would refer the department to that which is already upon file in the Pension Office, that which accompanies this declaration and that which may be hereafter filed by agent. Mary Ford
Sworn to and subscribed the day and date abovewritten before me, and I further certify that I have often heard as a neighbourhood report that John Ford referred to in the above declaration served as an officer in the "War of the American Revolution" I further certify that the foregoing declaration was carefully read to and fully understood by Mary Ford the affiant and I believe the facts contained in it are true. I further certify that Mary Ford, who makes the foregoing declaration, is a daughter of said John and Esther Ford, that she is of the age she represents herself to be, being sixty years and is a woman in whom full faith and credit may be placed and her oath would be taken in any Court of Justice where she is known. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand this the 16th day of December A.D. 1852
(signature) E.B. Snoddy
Justice of the peace for Jefferson County Tennessee
Page 9

State of Tennessee
Jefferson County on this 20th day of March, 1844 personally appeared before me a justice of the peace for said County and State. Mrs Margaret Mansfield who being first duly sworn according to Law doth on her oath say she is in her fifty seventh year of her age and that she has been acquainted with and known the aforesaid Mrs Esther Ford and John Ford her husband, since her earliest recollection and that they have been recognized as husband and wife in this neighbourhood previous to the year of seventeen hundred and ninety four [illegible] from her earliest recollection and lived together as husband and wife up to the death of the said John Ford. I further certify that the a foresaid John Ford is believed to have been a soldier in the War of the revolution and served as such in his neighbourhood. This affiant further declares that she has often seen the aforesaid John Ford commission as a lieutenant in the was of the revolution which was in his possession at his death, but which has since been destroyed by giving it (the aforesaid commission) to some little Children to play with and that she distinctly recollects of seeing the seal on it and of the said
Page 10

John Ford showing the same
Margaret Mansfield [her mark] sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written I further certify that full faith and credit is given to the statement of the said Margaret Mansfield
(signature)
E.B. Snoddy
Justice of the peace for Jefferson County

Sate of Tennessee
Jefferson County
On this 20th day of March 1844 personally appeared before me a justice of the peace for said county and State Mrs Mary Ford who being duly sworn according to Law doth on her oath say that she is fifty years of age and that she is the sixth Child and youngest one now living and that she has five brothers and sisters older than she is to her Mother Esther Ford and her Father John Ford. She further declares and certifies that she has often seen her Father John Fords commission as a Lieutenant with a large seal on it (the commission) and heard her Father the said John Ford say that he served six months as a lieutenant in the war of the revolution and that the said commission
Page 11

has been destroyed since the death of her Father John Ford by giving it (the commission) to some children to play with that she give it the (commission) to the little children to play with to please them herself- She further certifies and declares that the original record of her Father John Ford and her Mother Esther Fords Marriage and the birth of their children has been destroyed by accident in moving and further certify that the aforesaid Easther Ford my mother has lived a widow ever since the death of the aforesaid John Ford my Mother and I further certify that I have heard my father the aforesaid John Ford often say he served six months as a private making in all twelve months.
(signature) Mary Ford.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I further certify that the said Mary Ford who has subscribed and sworn to the foregoing affidavit is entitled to credit and that her statements are believed to be correct and true. 
E. B. Snoddy
Justice of the peace
for Jefferson County
Page 12

State of Tennessee
Jefferson County-on this 30th day of March 1866 personally appeared before me a justice of the peace for said county and State Mrs. Sarah Lang who first being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath say she is in her sixty third year of age and that she has been well acquainted with John Ford and his wife Easther Ford who is now sworn and signed a declaration for a pension since the year Seventeen hundred and seventy eight and has lived together as husband and wife and was recognized as husband and wife from my earliest recollection namely at the time above stated and their marriage never has been disputed and further certify that the said John Ford died in the year eighteen hundred and nineteen in October and that the said Esther Ford husband of John ford was always believed to have been a soldier in the war of the revolution and further certify I have often seen John Fords commission as a Lieutenant and he the said John Ford and told me he served
Page 13

as a revolutionary soldier under James Floyd who was his captain I further certify that the said John Ford died at my house at the time above stated. I further certify that the aforesaid Esther Ford has lived a widow ever since that time. 
(signature) Sarah Long 
sworn to & subscribed before me the day and year above written I further certify that the aforesaid Sarah Long who has sworn to and subscribed to the above affidavit is entitled to cred and that her statements are believed to be true.
(signature) Edward Riggs
Justice of the peace for Jefferson County Tennessee

State of Tennessee
Jefferson County
[illegible] County Council AD 1844
The application of Esther Ford [widow] and [illegible] of John Ford deceased Who Was a Soldier of the Revolution Wars presented in Open Court.  And [illegible] to Testimentary
Page 14

[solicitation] to use in open Court [illegible]  associate of the [illegible] and Acting of E.B. Snoddy and Edward Briggs Esq, two of the Justices [confessing?] this County Court. In the Original Proceedings here [lessores] ? the said E.B. Snoddy appeals Edwards Riggs Esq. need {illegible] of opinions that the said Esther Ford, the present applicant for pension is the lawful widow of the said John Ford. [illegible Taforiade?] to in social school . 
I  [illegible] as Clerk of this County Court in and for the County and State aforesaid also certify that the above is attached copy [illegible] previous the records of my office
(seal attached) [illegible, ] widow [illegible] accals seal of official acts office in Dec{illegible]
the 24the day of July AD. 1844
James Fedler, Clerk
Of Jefferson County
Page 15

Mr SJ Ford attorney
(Cannot make out the city name)
Tennessee

Along the right outside vertically written is 6273
Esther Ford
Tenn
Act July 4 1836
Page 16

Acts of July 14 1862 and March 3 1873 (this had a line through the entire sentence heading)

2623 underlined !
P.O. ——————————————
Esther Ford
Service: widow of John
(Stamped REJECTED)
Enlisted: ————————————18
Discharged:——————————-18

Application filed:————————18

Alleges:——————————————————————————————————————————————————
Re-enlisted:——————————————————————————————————————————————————

Attorney:————————————————————
P.O.: ——————————————————————————————————————————————————
—————-Recognized ————————Contract
——-Cert. of Dis.   Searched for————-, 18
Page 17

No. 6, 273
____________
Esther Ford
Widow of John 
Tenn.
Let. to
W.J.Ford 19 Oct. 1844
Jawell Newman May 7/53
Jacob Newman May 24/53
Ja.s W. Newman Aug 26/53
Ja.s W. Newman Jany 28/1854
H.L. Martin Sept 8 "
same "  " 11  "
same "  " 20  "
J.C. Brent May 1 1855
J.F. Callan July 30 1855
Hon A.G. Watkins Feb 19, '57
3653
Act 4 July 1836
Page 18

Esther Ford
Pension of John Ford
Tenn
Mr J Ford 19 Oct 1844
Tazwell Newman May 7/53
Jacob Newman 26 May /53
Jaz W  Newman Aug 25/53
Taze W Newman July 28/1857
H LMartin8 Sept1856
Same Sep 11 1857
Same Sep 20 1854
J.L. Brent April May 1855
J.F. Callen Jul 30/55
Hon. A.G. Watkins Feb 19 1857
July 4 1835

This was written on the entire right side and on the left side was only written what looks like August 13, 1814
Page 19

It appears like a sheet of paper torn from a notebook. It is folder over on the top left hand corner so the only thing showing is the following:
273
Ford widow of John
Tenn
Letter to 
Wm TJ Ford 19th Oct 1846
Tazwell Newman May 7th 1853
Jacob Newman 24 May 1853
Jas W Newman Aug 26 1853
Tazwell Newman
June 28 1854
H.L. Martin 8 Sept 1854

Oct 4th
Page 20

Dec 8 1852 (underlined)

Esther Ford widow
Of John of Tennessee

Additional declaration of Mary Ford one of the children
Power of Atty and certificate of Court of as to heirs.

Cole

Joseph Bryan of (not legible)
Page 21

Declaration
State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson (squiggle line) initials S.S.

Be it known, that in this the 22nd day of November A.D.1852 before the subscriber and acting Justice of the Peace, in, and for said county duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared, Mary Ford, aged sixty years past said a resident of said county and made oath in due form of law, that she is a daughter of Esther Ford, who was an applicant for a pension, on the account of the Revolutionary services of applicants father John Ford, that she said Esther Ford died on the 4th day of February A.D. 1848, leaving the following only surviving children Margaret Mansfield, Sarah Long, and the applicant in this declaration. Applicant makes this declaration in order to provide the amount of pension due her mother the said Esther Ford at the date of her death, under the Act of Congress of July the 4th, 1836 and for proof would refer the department so that which is already upon file in the Pension Office, and that which accompanies this declaration. Mary Ford

Sworn so and subscribed the day and date above written before me and I further certify that Esther Ford, the identical person who was an applicant for a Revolutionary Pension died on the 4th day of February A.D. 1848, leaving the following only surviving children Margaret Mansfield, Sarah Long and Mary Ford who makes the foregoing declaration.
D.B. Snoddy
Justice of the Peace for Jefferson County, Tennessee
Page 22

Power of Attorney
Know all men by these presents, that I Mary Ford of the County of Jefferson, and State of Tennessee, do hereby nominate, enstitute and appoint Tazewell W. Newman, of Knoxville, Tennessee my son and lawful attorney, in my name, place and stead to prosecute the General Government of the United States for any arrears of Pension which was due her and the date of her death, on account of the Revolutionary services of her husband and my father, John Ford, under any of the laws of Congress with power of substitution. Hereby giving my said attorney full power to file all additional evidence to examine all papers which may be on file, so received all communications in relation to the same, and , hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said attorney may lawfully do in the promises, by virtue thereof. In Authority whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal, this the 22nd day of November AD 1852
(signature) Mary Ford
Signed seald and delivered in the presence of  D. B. Snoddy
J.W. Newman
State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson, 
SS. on this the 22nd day of November A.D. 1852 before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said, personally appeared, Mary Ford, and acknowledged the foregoing Power of Attorney so be her act and deed for the purposes therein contained 
D. B. Snoddy
Justice of the peace for Jefferson County Tennessee
Page 23

State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson
To said:
I Clerk of the County Court of Said County do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to show that Esther Ford, an applicant for a Revolutionary Pension, died on the 4th day of February A.D. 1852, leaving the following only surviving as her heirs at law: Margret Mansfield, Sarah Long and Mary Ford. I further certify that E. B. Snoddy Esq, before whom the foregoing declaration and Power of Attorney made here is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly commissioned and sworn, and the signatures purporting to be his are genuine
In testimony where of I have hereunto and my hands and affixed the seal of said county court in Dandridge, Tennessee this 23day of November A.D. 1852
James M Nicholson Clerk of the County Court of Jefferson County
(seal affixed)
Page 24

Affidavit of Sarah Long
State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson
Be it known that on this the 18th day of December A.D. 1852 before the subscriber, an acting justice of the Peace in and For the county and state aforesaid, Mrs Sarah Long, a resident of said county aged seventy years past, and made with in due form of law, that she is the oldest living child of John Ford, and Esther Ford late an applicant for a Revolutionary Pension as widow of said John Ford . That her father, the said John Ford served, as she affiant always understood, in the War of the American Revolution in the militia of Cumberland County Pennsylvania, nine months in the capacity of Lieutenant and nine months as an Ensign, and also some service and a private, affiant thinks in the Continental line, but cannot remember the length of the last aforesaid service. Affliant has often seen what her father, the said John Ford called " his Commission in the Revolutionary War" but does not recollect anything about said Commission except an "large seal" attached to it; and that said commission was, shortly offer the death of said John Ford in the year A.D. 1818, given to some children to play with and was by them destroyed. Affiant further declares that her father, the said John Ford and her mother, she said Esther Ford whose maiden name  was Esther Anderson were married in the year, A.D. 1779, in
Page 25

Cumberlan county in the state of Pennsylvania. Affiant further declares that she, affiant is in the seventy first year of her age, and now has a grandchild in the twenty third year of his age. Affiant further declares that her mother, the said Esther Ford, died on the 4th day of February, A.D.1848 leaving the following only surviving children, Margret Mansfield, Mary Ford, and affiant in this affidavit 
(signature) Sarah Long
Sworn to and subscribed, this day and date above written before me and I further certify that the foregoing affidavit was carefully read to, and fully understood by Sarah Long who makes it, that she is of the age she represents herself to be and is a woman in whom full faith and credit may be place and her oath would be taken in any Court of Justice where she is known. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand they data and date above written
(signature) Russell Birdwell
Justice of the Peace for Jefferson County Tenn.
Page 26

Cumberland county in the state of Pennsylvania. Affieant further declares that she, affiant, is in the seventy first year of her age, and now her a grandchild in the twenty third year of his age. Affiant further declares that her mother, the said Esther Ford, died on the 4th day of February, A.D.1848, leaving the following only surviving children, Margret Mansfield, Mary Ford and affiant in this affidavit (signature) Sarah Long
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and date above written before me, and I further certify that, the foregoing affidavit was carefully read to and fully understood by Sarah Long who makes it, that she is of the age she represents herself to be and is a woman in whom full faith and credit may be placed and her oath would be taken in any Court of Justice where she is known in testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and date above written
(signature)
Russell Birdwell
Justice of the Peace for Jefferson county Tennessee
Page 27

Affidavit of Andrew B. Edgar
State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson
Be it known, that, on this the 20th day of December, A.D. 1882 before the subscribed an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for the County and State Aforesaid, personaly appeared Andrew B. Edgar, aged fifty seven years past, a resident of said county and made oath in due form of law that he was well acquainted with Esther Ford widow of John Ford, who died about the 4th day of February A.D. 1848, and was also well acquainted with said John Ford. That about the years A.D. 1816 and 1817 he affiant had frequent conversations with said John Ford upon the subject of the "Revolutionary War" That at that date said John Ford often told affiant that he, Ford, was a Lieutenant in said War and served for several years in the state of Pennsylvania.  Affiant cannot remember the names of any officers under whom said John Ford said affiant he served. Affiant further declares that said John Ford told affiant that he, the said John Ford, had his commission in his possession, but affiant never saw said commission. but always understood that said commission was destroyed by some children while playing with it.  Affiant further declares that he is now well acquainted with and has been well acquainted with, Sarah Long for the space of family years past and by as comparison of his own age with that of said Sarah Long, she must now be seventy years of age
Page 28

Affiant further declares that he was well acquainted with William Ford, the oldest child of said John and Esther Ford, and were he alive wound now be at least seventy two years of age. Affiant further declares that said Sarah Long has, to affiants own personal knowledge a grandchild twenty two years of age.  (signature) 
Andrew B Edgar
Sworn and subscribed the day and date abovewritten before me, and I further certify that the foregoing affidavit was fully understood by Andrew B Edgar before signing the same that, he is of the age her represents himself to be, that he is a man in whom full faith and credit may be placed, and his oath would be taken in any Court of Justice where he is known. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my honor, this  the 20th day of December A.D. 1862
(signature)
Wyatt Stubblefield
Justice of the Peace for 
Jefferson County Tennessee
Page 29

Affidavit of Margret Mansfield
State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson, S.S.
On this the 16th day of December A.D. 1852, before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the peace, in and for the county and state aforesaid, personally appeared, Margret Mansfield a resident of said county aged sixty five years past, and made oath in due form of law that she is a daughter of John Ford and Esther Ford late and applicant for a Revolutionary pension, on account of services rendered by said John Ford, affiant father, in the War of the American Revolution" That her father, the said John Ford, served, as affiant has often heard him say, nine months as an Ensign and nine months as a Lieutenant in the County of Cumberland and state of Pennsylvania in the militia under Captain James Floyd. Affiant futher declares that she has often heard her father, the said John Ford speak of Colonel Chambers and Colonel Bell as his officers. Affiant has often heard, said John Ford, affiant father speak of service, done as a private but recollects neither the kind of service done as a private nor the names of his officers while serving in that capacity.  Affiant further declares that she has often seen the commission of her father the said John Ford, that she does not recollect anything of what was written on it, but knows that in it there was a very large seal attached. That to affiant's own personal knowledge, said Commission was destroyed by some children while using it as a plaything
Page 30

Affiant Further declares that her sister, Sarah Long is in the seventy first year of her age and that there was one child of said John and said Esther Ford older than said Sarah Long is at present by two years. Affiant further declares that her mother the said Esther Ford (whose maiden name was Esther Anderson) was married to said John Ford in Cumberland County Pennsylvania, by James Hogg, a minister of the Church of the "Seceeder" [possibly, "persuasion")but never heard them say whether it was by license or "publication" ; the time of said marriage was about 1779 A.D. Margret (x her mark) Mansfield
 Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above written before me and I further certify that I am well acquainted with Margret Mansfield  who makes the foregoing affidavit, that she is at least sixty five years of age and is a woman in whom full faith and credit may be placed and her oath would be taken in any court of Justice where she is known and that the above affidavit was carefully read to her before signing. In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand this the 16th day of December A.D 1852 
(signature) E.B. Snoddy
Justice of the peace for Jefferson County 
Tennessee

State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson, SS
Affidavit of Robert Mansfield
Be it known that on this the 16th day of December A.D 1862, before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the said county, personally appeared Mr Robert Mansfield aged fifty eight years
Page 31

Past a resident of said county, and made oath in due form of law that he was well acquainted with John Ford and his surviving widow Esther Ford who died on the 4th day of February A.D. 1852. Leaving the following only surviving children as her heirs of law Mary Ford, Margaret Mansfield and Sarah Long. Affiant farther declares that he has heard it as a neighborhood report for the last thirty years that said John Ford served as an officer in the “War of the American Revolution”
Affiant knew said John Ford to be a respectable man and one whose standing in his acquaintance was as good as any man in the community. Affiant father declared that he is now well acquainted with Sarah Long the oldest living child of said Esther and John Ford, and has been well acquainted with her for the space of forty years and upon a comparison of his officiants age with that of said “Sarah Long” he said, Sarah Long must be at least seventy years of age at present. Affiant further declares that he was well acquainted with William Ford, deceased, another child of Esther and John Ford, and an older one than said Sarah Long and were he living at present he would be at least seventy two years old. 

Sworn to and subscribed to Robert Mansfield the day and date above written before me and further certify that the foregoing affidavit carefully read. To and fully understood by Robert Mansfield who makes it
Page 32

I further certify that said Robert Mansfield is of the age he represents himself to be and is a man in whom full faith and credit may be placed and his oath would be taken in any court of Justice where he is known. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand this the 16th day of December A.D. 1852
E B Snoddy
Justice of the Peace for Jefferson County Tennessee
Page 33

Affidavit of Noah Witt
State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson
Be it known that on this the 16th day of December, A.D. 1852, before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for the county and state aforesaid, duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared, Mr Noah Witt, aged seventy six years past, a resident of said county and made oath in due form of law, that he was well acquainted with Esther Ford, widow of John Ford who died on the 4th day of February A.D. 1848 leaving the following only surviving children Sarah Long, Margret Mansfield and Mary Ford. Affiant first became acquainted with said John Ford about the year A.D. 1798 in this Jefferson County Tennessee and said Ford was at that date considered in the neighborhood an officer in the "war of the American Revolution". Affiant at that date, and from that date has had frequent communications with said John Ford upon the subject of the "Revolutionary War", said Ford often told affiant of the many privations he endured while in said service, and has heard said John Ford speak of his Captain James Floyd. Affiant further declares that in or about the year A.D. 1798, when affiant first became acquainted with said John Ford, an "Indian War" broke out and said Ford was draughted in a company of which affiant's father, Elijah Witt, was Captain, and said John Ford was not received into said Indian service, on account of a disability.
Page 34

received by said John Ford in the "Revolutionary war", Affiant further declares that from the many conversations he affiant had with said John Ford upon the subject of the "War of the American Revolution", the affiant has no doubt but said John Ford served in the capacity of an officer in said War in the state of Pennsylvania.  Affiant further declares that he was well acquainted with
William Ford, the oldest child of said John and Esther Ford, as early as the year A.D. 1798, and at that date said William Ford was a young man, nearly grown and were said William Ford alive at present he would be at least seventy two years of age. Affiant knows the last mentioned fact by a comparison of his, affiant's own age with that of said William Ford's as they were boys together.  Affiant further declares that he is now well acquainted with Sarah Long the second oldest child of said John and Esther Ford, and was well acquainted with her as early as the year A.D. 1798 and upon a comparison of his own age with that of said Sarah Long she must now be at least seventy years of age. Affiant further declares that John Ford aforesaid died about the year A.D. 1839 leaving siad Esther Ford as his surviving widow and that siad Esther Ford died on or about the 4th day of February A.D. 1848 leaving Sarah Long aforesaid, Margret Mansfield and Mary Ford as her only surviving children.  (signature) Noah Witt (his mark)
Sworn to and subscribed the day and
Page 35

date above written before me, and I further certify that the foregoing affidavit was fully understood by Noah Witt, before signing that said Noah Witt is at least seventy six years of age is an old resident of this Jefferson County and is a man in whom full faith and credit may be placed and his oath would be taken in any court of Justice where he is known. In testimony where of I have hereunto set my hand this the 16th day of December A.D. 1852
(signature) E.B. Snoddy
Justice of the Peace for Jefferson County Tennessee

State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson
To wit
I James M. Nicholson Clerk of the County Court of said county do hereby certify that E.B. Snoddy, Russel Birdwell and Wyatt Stubblefield, are acting justices of the peace in and for the county and state aforesaid, duly commissioned and serve adn the signatures attached to the foregoing papers, purporting to be theirs are genuine. 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal [evidence of an affixed seal] Seandridge Tennessee, this the 20th day of December, A.D. 1852
James M. Nicholson Clerk
Page 36

State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson
At a Court held in and for the 12th Judicial Circuit for the County and State aforesaid, on the 20th day of December A.D. 1852, satisfactory evidence was addressed in open court to prove: that Esther Ford, an applicant for a Revolutionary Pension, as widow of John Ford died on the 4th day of February A.D. 1848, leaving the following named only surviving children, Sarah Long, Margret Mansfield and Mary Ford.
State of Tennessee
I theo. I Bradford, clerk of the circuit Court of Jefferson County in the State aforesaid, do hereby certify that the alors is a true copy taken from the record of said court.
Given under my had and private seal having no public seal of office at office in Danbridge this 20th day of December, A.F. 1852
Theo I Bradford Clerk
(seal symbolized to the left of signature)

State of Tennessee, 
County of Jefferson
I, E Alexander acting judge of the 12th Judicial Circuit for the county and State aforesaid, also hereby certify that Theodore I Bradford is Clerk of the Circuit Court for the county and state aforesaid, and the signature attached to the above certificate is genuine. In testimoney whereof I have hereunto set my hand, this the 21 day of December, A.D. 1852. 
E. Alexander, Judge
Page 37

[handwritten document}
[in lighter writing top righthand corner of sheet]
(setter enclosing, signed by T.W. Anderson)
State of Tennessee, 
County of Jefferson S.S
Be it known that, on this the 8th day of July A.D. 1853, before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the peace in and for said county, duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared Mr Abraham Cooter, a resident of said county, aged eighty eight years past and made oath in due form of law, that he was well acquainted with John Ford, who was a militia officer in the War of the American Revolution. That he was
Page 38

affiant further declares, that he has no pecuniary interest whatever in the procurement of a pension by the children of said John Ford, who are now making application for the same. 
Abraham Cooter

Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above written before me, and I further so certify, that Abraham Cooter who makes the foregoing affidavit, is of the age he represents himself, and is a man in whom full faith and credit may be placed, and his oath would be taken in any Court of Justice where he is known.
E. B. Snoody
Justice of the peace for Jefferson county Tennessee

State of Tennessee
Jefferson County} SS
Be it known, that, on this, the 8th day of July, A. D. 1853, before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for said county, personally appeased Isaac Gregory aged sixty nine years past, and made oath in due form of law that he was well acquainted with John Ford who was a reported soldier in the War of the American Revolution. That in the year A. D. 1811 he was at the house of said John Ford, he then showed him his Commission as a Lieutenant in the said War. Affiant cannot remember the reading of the Commission, or by whom it was signed, but well remembers that the Seal of the State of Pennsylvania was Attached to it.
Page 39

Affiant further declares that Esther Ford, who died in this county, on the 4th day of February A. D. 1848, was the widow of the identical John Ford aforesaid. Affiant has no interest whatever in the procurement of the pension, for which, the children of said John and Esther Ford are now making application.
Isaac Gregory

Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above written before me, and I further certify, that Isaac Gregory ] who makes the fore going affidavit, is of the age he represents himself to be, and is a man in whom full faith and credit may be placed and his oath would be taken in any Court of Justice where he is known.
E. B. Snoddy J. P.

State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson} SS
Be it known that on this, the 8th day of July A. D. 1853, before the subscriber an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for said county, personally appeared, Mary Smith, aged seventy one years past, and made oath in due form of law, that she was well acquainted with John Ford who was a reputed soldier in the War of the American Revolution. That in the year A. D. 1871, she was at the house of said John Ford, and their conversation happened to turn upon the "Revolutionary War", said John Ford remarked "that he himself was a soldier in said War," and in proof of his assertion, provided his Commission which he showed to affiant, and to Mr. Isaac Gregory who was also present.
Page 40

That as it was the first Commission, which affiant ever saw, she observed it closely, but can only remember that the Great Seal of the State of Pennsylvania was Attached to it. Affiant further declares that Esther Ford, who died in this county on the 4th day of February A. D. 1848 was the widow of the identical John Ford aforesaid. That she has no interest whatever in the procurement of the pension for which application is now being made by the surviving children of said John and Esther Ford.
Mary Smith

Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above written before me, and I would further  certify that Mary Smith] who makes the foregoing affidavit is of the age she represents herself to be and is a woman in whose full faith and credit may be placed and her oath would be taken in any court of Justice where she is known. 
E. B. Snoddy J. P. 

State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson} SS
I James M. Nicholson Clerk of the County Court of the county and state aforesaid, do hereby certify that from my own personal knowledge Abraham Cooter and Isaac Gregory, are old and respectable citizens of this, Jefferson county, Tennessee, and that E. B. Snoddy, Esq. before whom ] their affidavits with that of Mary Smith was had, is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county duly commissioned and sworn, and the signatures purporting to be his are genuine.
Witness my hand and official seal in Dandrigde Tennessee this 9th day of July AD. 1853.
James M. Nicholson clerk of said court
Page 41

Extract
From the original paper remaining in this office entitled “A List of The Eight Militia Battalions of Cumberland County” with the rank of field officers and rank in Battalion on the 5th day of July 1777

Colonel Wm. Chambers
Lt. Colonel David Bell
Major Samuel Irvine
3rd Company double underlined
Captain James Laird
1. Lieut. James Floyd
2. Lieut. George Dukey
Ensign John Ford
———————————————————
———————————————————
Extract
From the original paper remaining on file in this office, subtitled “ A List of the Eight Militia Batallions of Cumberland County with the rank of Field Officers and rank in Batallion dated July 31st 1777

Colonel Wm. Chambers
Lt. Colonel David Bell
Major Samuel Irvine
3rd Company double underlined
Captain James Laird
1 Lieut. James Floyd
2 Lieut. George Dukey
Ensign John Ford
Double underlined
Page 42

-Extract-
From the original paper remaining on file in this Office, entitled "A Return of the third Battalion of the Cumberland County Militia Commanded by Col. Wm. Chambers Esq. dated May 14th 1778

3d Company 
Captain James Floyd
1. Lieut. George Dukey
2. Lieut. John Ford
Ensign David Dickson
_______________________________________

Extract
From the original paper remaining on file in this Office entitled "A Muster Roll of Captain James Floyds Company of the third Class Cumberland County Militia for Pennsylvania In the service of the United States Commanded by Coll. Wm. Chambers Commencing February 27, 1779

Commissioned
James Floyd Captain
John Blackbum 1. Lieut.
John Ford  2. Lieut.
Page 43

Secretary’s Office (double underlined)

Pennsylvania (double underlined with the initials fs)

I do hereby certify, (double underlined), that the foregoing and annexed are true and correct “Extracts” from the original revolutionary papers as the same remain on file in this office.

In Testimony, whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Secretary Office to be affixed at Harrisburg this fourth day of April in the Years of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and a fifty three and of the Commonwealth the seventy seventh 

C. A. Black
Secy of the Comlth
Page 44

Mrs. E. Walkers

(????)
Page 45

State of Tennessee
Hawkins County} SS

On this 15th of December 1845 personally appeared before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace for said County Mrs. Elizabeth Walker a resident of the the County and State aforesaid aged Eighty five years and after being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following affidavit That she is well acquainted with Mrs. Ester Ford at this time a resident of Jefferson County Tennessee and was also well acquainted with her husband John Ford up to the time of his John Fords death affiant knew the said John Ford to be a Lieutenant of Militia under Captain James Floyd in the War of the Revolution and marched from the County of Cumberland in the State of Pennsylvania affiant well recollects of him the aforesaid John Ford to serve two expeditions or tours of three months each as Lieutenant under Capt Floyd in the latter part of the War of the Revolution affiant further declares that she of times heard it spoken of this John Ford served as a private in several tours at the commencement of the War of the Revolution. Affiant further declares that she was not present when the marriage took place but was in the neighborhood when John Ford was joined in wedlock with his wife Ester Anderson and they lived together as man and wife up to his John Fords death the marriage took place in the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy Nine.
Elizabeth  her X mark Walker
sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me a Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid I further certify that full faith and credit may be given to her
Mrs. Elizabeth Walkers statements 
Nicholas Bechner JP
for Hawkins County
Page 46

State of Tennessee
Hawkins County} SS
I Campbell Smith Clerk of the County Court of Hawkins County in the state aforesaid do certify that Nicholas Beckner whose name appears to the written affidavit is now and was at the time the same bears date an acting Justice of the Peace for said County duly Commissioned and qualified & that his signature thereto is genuine
Given under my hand and seal of office at office in Rogersville this 9th day of April 1844

C Smith clk.
Page 47

Ester Ford, July 4. 1836  Jefferson County Tennessee

Declaration made March 20, 1844

Ester Ford says she is 86 years of age, widow of John Ford
He entered the service in the year 1776 in Cumberland County Pennsylvania as a private in the militia under Captain's John or Matthew Troindel & served three months, Entered second time as a Private under Capt. John Steel served three months.
Third time was duly commissioned as a Lieutenant and served two tours of three months each under Capt. James Floyd. The last service was in the latter part of the war of the Revolution. Was in battle of Stony Point and Princetown. His commission was discharged.
She was married on the day of 1779.

Margaret Mansfield March 20. 1844 in her 57th year
Has known John & Ester Ford ever since her earliest recollection. Have been (??) as husband & wife in their neighborhood previous to the year 1794 (Bo. in 87) Often seen his Fords commission as Lieut. 
distincty  recollects of seeing the same.

Mrs. Mary Ford, March 21, 1844 50 years of age, 6th child & youngest now living. She has often seen her father John Ford Commission. Heard her father this said John Ford say he served six months as a Lieutenant in the war. Original record of her father John Ford & her mother Ester Ford's marriage and the births of their children have been destroyed Have heard my father say he served six months as a private making in all twelve months.
Page 48

Mrs. Sarah Long March 30, 1844 aged in her 63 year
Well acquainted with John Ford & his wife Ester Ford, since the year 1778, Have lived together and was recognized as husband and wife from her earliest recollection namely this time above date (She was born in 1781) Marriage never doubted. 
John Ford died in the year 1819 in October, John Ford always declared to have been a soldier. Have seen Fords commission as a lieutenant. He then said John Ford told me he served as a revolutionary soldier under James Floyd who was his captain. John Ford died at my house at the time above stated.

Elizabeth Walker Dec. 13. 1863 85 years
Is well acquainted with Ester Ford also with John Ford, She knows the said John Ford to be a Lieutenant of Militia under Captain James Floyd in the war of the Revolution and marched from the county of Cumberland in the state of Pennsylvania. Afficant recollects of his serving two tours of three months each as lieut. under Capt. Floyd in the latter part of the war of the revolution. Heard it spoken of that he served as private several tours at the commencement of the revolution Was not present at marriage, but in neighborhood it took place in the year 1779.
Page 49

Mary Ford December 10, 1852, aged 60 years present. Bo. in 1792
(When she gave her deposition she was Bo. in 1794)
Her father John Ford served as she always understood in the war of the Revolution in the militia of Cumberland County Penna. in the capacity of Ensign & Lieut. for the space of nine months as Ensign & nine months as Lieutenant sometime between the years 1775 & 1780. (Crossed through "Had often heard her father") Declares that her parents were married between 1778 & 1780 before that cannot name of officers further. Afficiant sister Sarah Long is now in her 71st year. John & Ester had one child before Sarah. Father died in 1819, mother died Feb. 4 1848 leaves Sarah Long, Margaret Mansfield and Mary Fox.

Sarah Long Dec. 18. 1852 aged 71 years Bo. in 1780
(Bo in 1782 in her other dep.)
Her father served as she always understood in the Militia of Cumberland Co. Penna. nine months as Lieut. & nine months as Ensign and also some service as private she thinks in Continental line seen commission. Parents were married in the year 1779. Ester died July 4, 1848
Page 50

Andrew B. Edgar Dec. 20, 1852 aged 57 (bo '95)
Esther Ford died Feb 4, 1848. John Ford told affiant that he was a Lieutenant in said war and served several years. (all ???) Know Wm. Ford eldest child of John & was he alive he would be 72 years of age.

Margaret Mansfield Dec. 16, 1852 aged 65 years (bo 1787)
(age the same as before)
a daughter of John Ford Has often heard her father say he served nine months as an Ensign and nine months as a Lieutenant in the County of Cumberland and State of Penna. under Capt. James Floyd Heard him speak of service also as a private. Often seen Commission

Robert Mansfield Dec. 16, 1852 58 years old
Memory except as to the age of William Ford who must have been 72 years if alive.

Noah Wilt Dec 16, 1812 aged 76 years
Memory was ???
Page 51

Brief
Esther Ford
Act of 1836
Page 52

Abraham Cooter July 5, 1853 aged 88 years.
Resident of Jefferson County Tennessee
Was acquainted with John Ford in the County of Cumberland State of Penna. in the year 1777, 1778, & 1779. Was an officer in Penna. Militia of Cumberland County. He knows from his own personal knowledge he was absent in 1778. John Ford & Esther Ford were living together as man and wife at this time of said service. Esther Ford who died Feb 4 1848 in Jefferson County was the identical widow of of said John Ford.

Isaac Gregory July 8, 1853 aged 69 years present
Was at the House of John Ford in 1811. Saw his commission
Esther Ford was his widow.

Mary Smith July 8, 1853 aged 71 years
Was present with Gregory in 1811 Saw his commission.

A true list of the officers incoming belonging to the Second Battalion as class of Cumberland Mil. now in their march to the Camp dated July 5. 1777 and revised October 12th, 1777. Ensign John Ford-Date June 15. 1853
The ??  ?? have nothing to do with the com.
July 5. 1777 John Ford appears to be Ensign
July 31 1777 ditto
May 14 1778 John Ford appears to be Lieut.
Feb 27. 1779 ditto
Page 53

Pension Office
August 27. 1853

Sir

In the case of Esther Ford deceased, widow of John of Tenn., the additional certificate of the Secretary of the State of Pa. has been filed. There is in this case no evidence whatever of the duration of the service performed by John Ford. the Claimants husband in the revolutionary war.

Very Respectfully
S. Cole
Acting Commissioner


Jas W. Newman Esq.
Knoxville
Tenn.
Page 54

Knoxville, Tennessee
Dec. the 25th 1852

Sir,

Enclosed you will please find the papers of Esther Ford's heirs. Upon the evidence of the 
witnesses enclosed by the act of May the 7th 1846 you cannot but admit the marriage under the Act of July the 4th 1836, and as the Commission has been proved you ought, I think, admit the amount of service which the widow Ford claimed in her lifetime. I think it impossible to provide any evidence from that recieved of Pennsylvania as I have addressed them several times upon the subject I will write again to the Comptroller of Pa., by this morning's mail and when I receive a reply will send it to your office. I wrote several days since to the county court clerk of the county in which they were married.
I am, sir
Very respectfully
your obt. s'rt.
Jacob Newman
by J. W. Newman

J. E. Heath, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington City
D. C.
Page 55

Louisville, Tennessee
July 30, 1844
Mr J L Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
VC
Dr. Sir 
I enclose you  the declaration of Esther Ford for a pension and the proofs which you will please have examined as soon as possible and Let me know the results. You will do me a great Favor if you can spare time to let me know what has been done with the claim of Agnes Lea of Cocke County Tennessee as it has been forwarded to the department some six or seven months and I have never heard from it also the claim of Elizabeth Bugg of Franklin County North Carolina as She has removed to Cocke County Tennessee you will please send the certificate to me at this place also what has become of the case of Mrs. Jenkins of the county also the case of Mrs. Mary Holland of Franklin Co., N. Carolina.
Your friend in haste
Wm. S. J. Ford

To J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 56

(Copy) 3653
State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson,
Be it known, that, on this the 8th day of
July, A.D. 1853, before the subscriber, an acting justice of the
peace, in and for said county, duly authorized by law to administer
oaths, personally appeared Mr. Abraham Cooter, a 
resident of said county, aged eighty-eight years past, and made
oath in due form of law, that he was well acquainted with John
Ford, who was a militia officer in the War of the American
Revolution. That he was well acquainted with said John
Ford in the County of Cumberland, in the State of Pennsylvania,
and in the years of 1777, 1778, and 1779, said John Ford was an
officer in the Pennsylvania militia of Cumberland County. That
to affiants own personal knowledge, said John Ford was a lieutenant
in the year 1778, which fact affiant knows from the fact
that affiant's father in the year 1780, emigrated into the State of
Virginia, and two years prior to his emigration, said John
Ford was acting as a lieutenant in said service

Affiant further declares that John Ford aforesaid, and his
wife, Esther Ford, were living together as man and wife at the
time of said service, and that Esther Ford, who died on the 4th
day of February, A.D. 1848, in this Jefferson County, Tennessee,
was the widow of the identical John Ford aforesaid

Affiant further declares that he has no pecuniary interest 
whatever in the procurement of a pension by the children
of said John Ford, who are now making application for
the same.

(Signed ) Abraham Cooter
Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above writen before
me, and I further certify that Abraham Cooter who
Page 57

makes the foregoing affidavit, is of the age he represents himself, and is a man in whome full faith and credit may be placed and his oath would be taken in any court of justice where he is known

(Signed) E. B. Snoddy, 
Justice of the peace for 
Jefferson County, Tennefsee

State of Tennefsee, 
Jefferson County
ss.

Be it known that on this the 8th day of 
July, A.D. 1853, before the subscriber, an acting justice of the peace 
in and for said county, personally appeared Isaac Gregory, 
aged sixty-nine years past, and made oath in due form 
of law that he was well acquainted with John Ford who 
was a reputed soldier in the War of the American Revolution, 
That in the year A.D. 1811, he was at the house of said 
John Ford, he then showed his his commifsion as a lieutenant
in the said War. Affiant cannot remember the 
reading of the commifsion, or by whom it was signed, but
well remembers that the seal of the State of Pennsylvania
was attached to it. 
Affiant further declares that Esther Ford, who died in
this county on the 4th day of February, A.D, 1848, was the
widow of the identical John Ford aforesaid. Affiant has
no interest whatever in the procurement of the pension for
which the children of the said John and Esther Ford
are now making application. 
(Signed) Isaac Gregory, 
Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above writen
before me, and I further certify, that Isaac Gregory,
Page 58

who makes the foregoing affidavit, is of the age he represents
himself to be, and is a man in whom full faith and
credit may be placed, and his oath would be taken in
any court of justice where he is known. 
(Signed) E. B. Snoddy, J.P.

State of Tennefsee,
County of Jefferson
ss. 
Be it known that on this, the 
8th day of July, A.D. 1853. before the subscriber, an acting
justice of the peace in and for said county, personally appeared
Mary Smith, aged seventy-one years past, and made oath
in due form of law, that she was well acquainted with John
Ford, who was a reputed soldier in the War of the American 
Revolution. That in the year A. D. 1811, she was at the house
of said John Ford, and their conversation happening to turn
upon the Revolutionary War, said John Ford remarked
"that he himself was a soldier in said War," and in proof
of his afsertion produced his commifsion, which he showed
to affiant, and to Mr. Isaac Gregory, who was also present. 
That as it was the first commifsion which affiant ever
saw, she observed it closely, but can only rember that the 
Great Seal of the State of Pennsylvania was attached to it. 
Affiant further declares that Esther Ford, who died in this
county on the 4th day of February, A.D. 1848, was the widow
of the identical John Ford aforesaid. That she has no interest
whatever in the procurment of the pension for which application
is now being made by the surviving children of said
John and Esther Ford.
(Signed) Mary Smith
Sworn to and subscribed the day and date afore written before
me, and I would further certify that Mary Smith
Page 59

who makes the foregoing affidavit, is of the age he represents himself to be, and is a man whom full faith and credit may be placed, and his oath would be taken in any court of justice where he is known.
(Signed) E. B. Snoddy, J. P. 

State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson}SS
Be it known that on this, the 8th day of July, A. D. 1853, before the subscriber, an acting justice of the peace in and for said county, personally appeared Mary Smith, aged seventy-one years past, and made oath in due form of law, that she was well acquainted with John Ford, who was a reputed soldier in the War of the American Revolution. That in the year A. D. 1811, she was at the house of said John Ford, and their conversation happening to turn upon the Revolutionary War, said John Ford remarked "that he himself was a soldier in said War," and in proof of his assertion produced his commission, which he showed to affiant, and to Mr. Isaac Gregory, who was also present. That as it was the first commission which affiant ever saw, she observed it closely, but can only remember that the Great Seal of the State of Pennsylvania was attached to it. Affiant further declares that Esther Ford, who died in this county on the 4th day of February, A. D. 1848, was the widow of the identical John Ford aforesaid. That she has no interest whatever in the procurement of the pension for which application is now being made by the surviving children of said John and Esther Ford.
(Signed) Mary Smith
Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above written before me, and I would further certify that Mary Smith
Page 60

who makes the foregoing affidavit, is of the age she represents herself to be, and is a woman in whom full faith and credit may be placed, and her oath would be taken in any court of justice where she is known.
(Signed) E.B. Snoddy, J.P.

[handwritten curly brace after these two lines]
State of Tennessee
County of Jefferson

Ss. J. James M. Nicholson, Clerk of the county court of the county and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that, from my own personally knowledge, Abraham Couter and Isaac Gregory are [underline] old [end underline] and [underline] respectable [end underline] citizens of this, Jefferson county, Tennessee, and that E.B. Snoddy, Esq. before whome their affidavits, with that of Mary Smith, were had, is an acting justice of the peace in and for said county, duly commissioned and sworn, and the signatures purporting to be his are genuine.
Witnefs my hand and official seal in Dandridge, Tennefsee, this 9th of July, A.D. 1853.
(Signed) James M. Nicholson, clerk of said court.

[handwritten inside a hand drawn "cloud" seal] Seal

[handwritten in lower left of page, vertically]
3653 R
Esther Ford
Page 61

(Copy.) 3653

[handwritten curly brace after these two lines]
State of Tennessee,
County of Jefferson

es:
Be it known, that, on this the 8th day of July, A.D. 1853, before the subscriber, an acting justice of the peace, in and for said county, duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared Mr. Abraham Couter, a resident of said county, aged eighty-eight years past, and made oath in due form of law, that he was well acquainted with John Ford, who was a militia officer in the War of the American Revolution. That he was well acquainted with said John Ford in the county of Cumberland, in the State of Pennsylvania, and in the years of 1777, 1778, and 1779, said John Ford was an officer in the Pennsylvania militia of Cumberland county. That to affiants own personal knowledge, said John Ford was a lieutenant in the year 1778, which fact affiant knows from the fact that affiant's father in the year 1780, emigrated into the State of Virginia, and two years prior to his emigration, said John Ford was acting as a lieutenant in said service.
Affiant further declares that John Ford aforesaid, and his wife, Esther Ford, were living together as man and wife at the time of said service, and that Esther Ford, who died on the 4th day of February, A.D. 1848, in this Jefferson county, Tennessee, was the widow of the identical John Ford aforesaid.
Affiant further declares that he has no pecuniary interest whatever in the procurement of a pension by the children of said John Ford, who are now making application for the same.
(Signed) Abraham Couter
Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above writen before me, and I further certify that Abraham Couter who
Page 62

makes the foregoing affidavit, is of the age he represents himself, and is a man in whom full faith and credit may be placed, and his oath would be taken in any court of Justice where he is known.
(Signed) E. B. Snoddy,
Justice of the peace for 
Jefferson County, Tennessee

State of Tennessee
Jefferson county} ss

Be it known that on this the 8th day of July, A. D. 1853, before the subscriber, an acting justice of the peace in and for said county, personally appeared Isaac Gregory, aged sixty nine years past, and made oath in due form of law that he was well acquainted with John Ford who was a reputed soldier in the War of the American Revolution, That in the year A. DD. 1811, he was at the house of said John Ford, he showed him his commission as a lieutenant in the said War. Affiant cannot remember the reading of the commission, or by whom it was signed, but well remembers that the seal of the State of Pennsylvania was attached to it.
Affiant further declares that Esther Ford, who died in this county on the 4th day of February, A. D. 1848 was the widow of the identical John Ford aforesaid. Affiant has no interest whatever in the procurement of the pension for which the children of the said John and Esther Ford are now making application.
(Signed) Isaac Gregory
Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above written before me, and I further certify that Isaac Gregory,
Page 63

No. 526] Certificate for Feb 7.13. Specie.
We do certify  that the State of Pennsylvania, is indebted to John Ford late private ____ of
the third Pennsylvania Regiment, in the Sum of Fifty Seven pounds thirteen Shillings & one penny  Specie, with lawful Interest from the tenth Day of April 1781; being the Amount of the Residue of the Depreciation of his Pay.

Pursuant to two Acts of Assembly, [illegible] at Philadelphia, the 18th of December 1780, and the 10th of April 1781.
Philadelphia
March 27th 1783
Jn Nicholson [signature crossed out]
Comprt. Genl.

[Additional notations]
One years Int paid JN
One years Int paid JN
One years Int paid JN

Auditor Generals office Harrisburg PA
April 17th 1854 –
I do certify that the above is a true and correct copy of the original certificate as the same remains on file in this office – 
Witness my hand & seal of office the day & years above written –
C. Banks Aud. Gen.
From A. A. Banks
Page 64

[Round Seal, illegible]
Taze W. Newman
Knoxville
Tennessee
Page 65

-Extract-
From the original paper remaining on file in this Office entitled "I do certify this to be a true list of the Officers Names Belonging to the second [class - line through] Batallion or Class of Cumberland County Militia Now on their march to the Camp dated July 5th 1777 and received October 12th 1777 as the same remain on file in this Office

Captain John Trandle 3 Batallion
1 Lieut Christopher Quigly
2 Lieut Samuel Egnew
Ensign John Ford
Signed Tho. Kennedy
Page 66

Secretary's Office
Pennsylvania f
[embossed sun-shaped seal]
I do hereby certify that the foregoing and annexed is a true and correct "Extract" from the original paper as the same remains on file in this Office and that the returns of Militia xc, have always been considered Evidence of service unless the original document prove to the contrary.
In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and caused the Seal of the Secretary's Office to be affixed at Harrisburg this fifteenth day of June in the year of Our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty-three and of the Commonwealth the seventy seventh

Geo B Laird
Military Clerk for
C. A. Black
Secy. of the Cmlth
Page 67

In the case of Esther Ford, widow of John-Ten.
_______________________________________
I have examined this case with a view to ascertain, if possible, the length of John Ford's service in the revolutionary war. It appears from the testimony that he held a Commission as Lieutenant of Militia, but there is no evidence whatever showing him in the actual Service of the U. States. The mere commission as a Lieutenant of Militia would not necessarily prove him to have been an Officer of the Revolutionary Army. But what do the witnesses say?
Abm. Cooter-knew John Ford to have been a Lieutenant
Isaac Gregory-Saw Ford's commission-proves no service
Mary Smith-Saw Ford's commission-proves no service
Sarah Long-heard her father say he served-saw comm.
A. B. Edgar-Heard John Ford say he served-
Mag. Mansfield-Heard her father say he served-saw comm.
Robert Mansfield-Heard by report that Ford served in Army
Noah Witt-Heard Ford say he served in the Army
Secy. of Penn.-Extracts of List containing names of Ford as Lieut. & Capt.
Eliz. Walker-"Knew Ford to be a Lieut-recollects he served two tours of 3 months Each as Lieut. in Latter part of war. Heard he served as private in commencement of war"
From the above condensation of the testimony it will be perceived that only one witness fixes any time
Page 68

to Mr. Ford's services-and she does not show herself in a position to know anything about the service relative to which she testifies. The presumption is that Mrs. Walker could have known nothing, of her own personal knowledge, of the Military services of Mr. Ford or of any other soldier.--It is evident that she testified from impressions on her mind, &, not from what she knows. This being the only evidence offered in the case going to show any length of service, or in fact any service at all- I think the proof not sufficient to support the claim and therefore recommend its rejection.
Respectfully
Yr. Ob. Servant
Alex. H. Evans


Hon L.P. Waldo
Commr.
Page 69

Knoxville Tennessee
Sept the 2nd 1853

Loren P Waldo, (In Person)
Commissioner of Pensions

Sir,
I have the honor of herewith returning your report in the case of Esther Ford deceasing of 24th of August last.
You will, I have no doubt, remember a conversation which I held with you, in regards to this claim in June last, when I filed the “second certificate of the secretary of State of Pennsylvania” referred to you in form enclosed report you then made Use of the following language to me.” I have no objection to the proof of service and marriage, it is the evidence of identity to which I object; and if you will
Page 70

procure one witness who will prove the identity, I will admit nine months service as an ensign and nine as a Lieutenant. I then required you to reduce this (??) promise to writing, but you said that you would remember the case when it came up for report. Since that time, on the 13th of July last, I mailed at this place the requisite evidence of identity, and one of the witnesses, Mr. Cootes swears to the evaluation of the service of John Ford; i.e. nine months as Ensign and nine months as a Lieutenant in the militia of Cumberland Co., Pa., and Mr. Cootes credibility is certified to, both by the magistrate, before whose the deposition was taken, and by the County Court Clerk There is one more witness on file in the pension office who swears to the duration of service. I have forgotten her name, but the disposition is among the papers upon which her claim was first asserted. But, aside from all this, it is your duty to inform the amount of actual service performed by John Ford, from
Page 71

The evidence of the witnesses just referred so and the certificate of the Secretary of State of Pennsylvania, which shows. That John Ford was in service at many times between the years 1776 and 1779 (All words in that sentence were underlined) as a Lieutenant and Ensign.
The foregoing arguments and facts are respectfully submitted for your personal (underlined) considerations by,
Yours, Very respectfully,
Tazewell W Newman Attorney
For the heirs of Esther Ford deceased
By James W Newman

L P Waldo,
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City,
D.C.
Page 72

Auditor General’s Office
Harrisburg, PA. April 10th 1854

WM Churchwell Esq.
Your letter of the 6th inst. was received today. In reply I have to state that we can give no evidence of the time of service of John Ford,  but can give a certified copy of his having received pay for services as a private to the amount of $57.13, 1. Which indicates that he served some length of time.
The cost of certifying will be $2.00
Very Respectfully
A.A. Banks
For Auditor General
Page 73

This looks like a journal entry on the right side of the middle of a two folded paper.

Elizabeth Davis
Ten Sus 1836
Esther Ford
Ten Sus 1836

Report to
H.L. Martin
Present
Page 74

Knoxville Tennessee
August 28th 1854
My  Dear Sir
After my respect allow me to ask your attention to the following cases, for my friend Mr. Newman.
He handed me the following memoranda. Call at the Pension Office and see what disposition has been made of the claims of Mrs. Leather Ford and the heirs of Elizabeth Davis, two claims that TW Neuman is agreed for and procure their passage at as early may as possible as they have been lying in the office a long time. Send me the report!! 
You will please give your early attention and oblige
Yours Truly
WM Churchwell
Page 75

Washington July 
Sir.        Referring to your favor of Camay last I find that you state - in relation to the affidavit of Abraham Cooter given in the case Ester Ford widow of John of Tenn. - “however not intimate that he has already made an affidavit in this case” on examination of the paper will sho that Cooter says he is “the identive” Abraham Cooter who formerly made an affidavit in this case and that this is amendatory thereto” - “that to his personal knowledge said John Ford serve in the Militia of said county 8 months as Lieunt and 3 months as Ensign.” 
Inyourself, the same date above you ask “How does he (Cooter) know just how long Ford served?” And Cooter in the same affidavit has already stated “he knows the facts to be as stated by him, because he was at the time living with said Ford as a lad.” He also satisfactorily accounts for the delay in giving his testimony.
I am sure a careful review of the testimony in this case will satisfy you that it should be allowed
With great respect
Hon. LP Waldo
Comm Pensions
Page 76

Knoxville Tennessee
July 13th 1853
L P Waldo Esq
Sir enclosed you will find additional evidence in the case of Esther Ford widow of John of Tennessee claiming a pension under Act of July 4th 1836,, for service in the Pennsylvania Militia curing the war of the Revolution, (the sentence next is completely underlined) you told me you could admit the service for about eighteen months and the marriage, in this case, but the proof of identity was not sufficiently established . This evidence I submit to you in connection with the testimony was fill in support of Identity (underlined) and hope you can submit the claim as the proof is surely strong enough to admit any claim as Common Law, in this state.
Your most
Abt Sat (not legible letter or word)
Take W. Newman
Page 77

Knoxville Tennessee
April the 13th 1853

Sir;
Enclosed you will please find a certificate from the Secretary of the State of Pennsylvania in support of the claim of the (not legible) of Esther Ford widow of John Ford of Jefferson County Tennessee
You will perceive that there is sufficient services in the amount of the nine months as ensign and nine as Lieutenant as claimed and in the declaration the proof of marriage is I find sufficient. You will find also enclosed the certificate of the county court clerk of Cumberland County.
Very Respectfully,
Loren P Waldo Esq.       Jas W. Newman
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.
Page 78

Sir.          Washington April 25th 1855

I have the honor of submitting here with the explanatory offer of Abraham Cooter in support of the claim of Esther widow of John Ford.
Cooter testifies of his non knowledge to eight (crossed through) Eleven months service of Ford, & explains the reason why he has before given an affidavit as to the length of service and grade of Ford - Were defects - I hope you may find supplied in the statement now submitted. I therefore respectfully request an rexamination of the case.
Respectfully Yours
Hon L P Waldo.    John Carroll Read
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 79

# (CHECK MARK) 1 Here is Esther Ford Widow of John of Tennessee (underlined)
# (CHECK MARK) 2 Elizabeth Davis widow of Joseph of Tenn (underlined but not spelled out)
3 Sarah widow of John Flowers of Tenn

(CHECK MARK) 4 HANNAH JENKINS   1836 OR 38
(CHECK MARK) 5 TEMPERANCE (NOT LEGIBLE) widow of Ariel of Tenn

March 7th 55
Chief Clerk
(CHECK MARK)  Returned
Page 80

Washington
Sept 8/54

Hon LP Waldo
Court of Pensions
Sir
I herewith submit as additional testimony, in the case of the claim of the widow & heir of John Ford (late of Penn) to a pension in amount of his services in the war of the Revolution. The correspondence with and certificate of, the Auditor General of Pennsylvania as tending to establish
Page 81

Some (underlined) length of service and respectfully ask a reconsideration of the case, and the allowance of whatever may, under the proof, seem to be equitable and just.
Very respectfully
Your (two words written too small and not legible)
W.M. Churchwell
Henry L. Martin
By
P.S. I respectfully submit that this certificate corroborates the statements of the declaration and the testimony of Mr. Walker and under a fair and reasonable interpretation establishes the claim
Martin
Page 82

State of Pennsylvania
Cumberland County S.S.

I Sam Martin Clerk of the County in and for said County of Cumberland do Certify that there never had been a Record of Marriage held in this County or State previous to the year 1852.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and official seal of Carlisle this 5the day of February A.D 1852
Sam Martin
Clerk of the County
Page 83

Auditor General’s Office
Harrisburg, PA April 17th 1854

Hon W.M. Churchwell
Enclosed find certificate promised you.  I can find nothing as to the say of Mr Ford as Luint or an ensign I found what you recd from the Secy Office but can find no say nothing
The enclosed certification of say shows that he must have served a considerable length of time as a private, but we can furnish no evidence of the time -
Very Respy,
C Banks Aud Gen
From A.A. Banks
Page 84

Esther Ford widow of
John Ford
Explanatory Affidavit
Abraham Cooter
Page 85

State of Tennessee
County of Grainger } SS

Before it known that on this the 20th day of April A.D. 1855, before the subscriber and acting Justice of the Peace, within and for said county personally appeared Abraham Cooter a resident of the county of Jefferson in said state and made oath in one form of law that he is the identical, Abraham Cooter, who formally made an affidavit in the case of the application of the legal representatives of John Ford deceased, and now makes the case amendatory of his former one. That he was well acquainted with said John Ford in Cumberland county Pennsylvania, and to his personal knowledge of affidavit, said John Ford served in the militia of said County of Cumberland for a period of eight months as lieutenant and then another nine months as ensign and officiant was informed that said Ford had before that time and another time of three as Ensign and that he affiant was  was further informed and believed that said John Ford also elected ensign in said militia on account of service said to have been performed as a private in the continental service. That the officers of John Ford were Reve Chambers, Lieutenant Leland Bell, captain James Laird and Captain James Floyd. Affiant knows the foregoing facts to be as he here states these from the fact he was living with said John Ford when a lad and when these events occurred. Affiant has been asked the question why his testimony was never procured before and in reply to it makes the following explanation; that he was called upon in the year 1825 bye William Ford, family
Page 86

A resident of Gainesville, Tennessee, but now dead, and by other agents to give evidence in the case but persisted in refusing to give it until recently and his refusal grew out of the fact that he was for a long time after the death of said John Ford engaged in difficulties with his legal representatives growing out of a large “law Suit”- between affiant and him and those difficulties having been recently (not a legible word) he consented to give them the benefit of his widow. That Sarah Long, May Ford and Margaret Mansfield are the only surviving children of John and Esther Ford and that he has no interest in this claim. 

Abraham Cooter
Sworn to and subscribed the day and date above written before me and I further certify that Abraham Cooter who made the same giving affidavit must be from his appearance a very old man, that he is a resident of the adjoining county of Jefferson; that I have known him for a number of years, that he is a man in whom full faith and credit may be placed and his oath would be taken in any court of justice where he is known and that I have no interest in the claim or the liens of John Ford and Esther Ford.
Jonathan Sloe
J P.
Page 87

State of Tennessee
County of Granger /S.S.

I James K. McAnnaly Clerk of the County Court of said county do hereby certify that Jonathan Noe Esq’s before whom the foregoing affidavit of Abraham Cooter was had, is an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said county duly commissioned and sworn and the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
Witness my hand and seal of office at my office in Rutledge Tennessee, this 20th day of April A.lD. 1855
JK McAnnaly Clerk
Of the County Court
Of said County