Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 23548, Benjamin Barker, Mass.
Page 1

Service Mass.
Barker, Benjamin
            Dorcas
Number W.23548
Page 2

18.206
Maine
Benjamin Barker
of Nelvry in the State of Maine who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain Davis of the Regt. commanded by Col. Carlton in the Mass. ma. line for 2 years [Edu written to left of margin]
[faint writing below:] [?] 1775 [?] be allowd

[Edu written in left of following line]
Inscribed on the Roll of Maine 
[Edu left of line]
the rate of 80 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 31 day of July 1833 and sent to P. C. Virgin. Rumford Me
Arrears to the 4th of March 1833    $160.00
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Sept      40.00
                                                         $200.00
{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.}
Recorded by W. L. Williams, Clerk,
Book E Vol. 1 Page 5 . . .
Page 3

2964                                         Reported
Maine
Dorcas Barker
widow of Benjn Barker
Mass
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a Private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of
80 Dollars --
Cents per annum, to commence on
the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the
11th day of Jany '49
and sent to 
Hon. D. Hammons
Hos of Reps.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 2 Vol. 1.
Page 4

Benjm Barker
B.592
Page 5

STATE OF MAINE
County of Oxford  ss.
ON this 17th day of September A.D. 1832, personally appeared in open Court, before the Court of Probate now sitting, Benjamin Baker a resident of Newry in the county of Oxford and State of Maine, aged 77 years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress, passed June 7, 1832. That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated. as a Private at Methuen in the County of Essex and State of Massachusetts in the Month of October A.D. 1776 enlisted as a Volunteer into a Company of Massachusetts State Troops under the command of Captain John Davis the regiment commanded by Colonel James Frye from the terms of Eight months. [last two words underlined] Marched to Cambridge was in an engagement at Leachmare [Lechmere] point at which Major Putnam was commander. Before the en[?] time of said term of service he enlisted at Cambridge into the same company and Regiment and was discharged after the British evacuated Boston. At said Methuen in December AD 1776 enlisted as a volunteer for [name illegible] into a company of Volunteer Militia of Massachusetts commanded by Captain Nathaniel Marsh. The Regiment commanded by Colonel Carlton. Marched to Providence in Rhode Island. Thence to White Plains in the State of New York. Thence by Long Island. Thence to Werthers Field [Wethersfield] in Connecticut - Thence to Danbury - Thence to Terrytown State of New York. Thence to Fort Independence - and took a store belonging to the British. Thence to Peekskill. Thence across Kings Ferry to Barret [sp?] Brook. Was in an engagement with a scouting party of the British; and Major [left blank] had his horses eye shot out. in March AD 1777 was discharged. AD 1778 for three months [two words underlined] at said Methuen enlisted as a volunteer into a Company of Militia of the State of Massachusetts commanded by Captain Nathaniel Gage the Regiment commanded by Colonel Jacob Gerrish. Marched to Winterhill  and was a guard over Burgoyne's Army. In March was discharged. At Danvers in the State of Massachusetts in the Month of May AD 1778 enlisted into a company on the Continental Line of the State of Massachusetts under the command of Captain Cass Regiment commanded by Colonel Wesson General Learned's Brigade; for the term of nine months. Marched to Fishkill State of New York -Put on a guard called Wood's Guard three months. Then at the Belahs [sp?] at Fishkill on the Knowes [sp? - perhaps Noyes] Guard. Afterwards detached to go assist in Building a Bridge over Cool Skill [sp?] River under the command of Colonel Carlton - when the Bridge was completed returned back to the Nowes [sp?] Guards. Thence Marched to join his Regiment at Danbury Heights. Thence marched back to Fishkill. Thence to West Point and staying there a few days marched back to Fish Kill and went into Winter quarters. He was also detached to cut wood at a place called Sulelien's [sp?] Fontune [sp?]. Then returned to camp sick with a Fever - after having been in camp a few days the Surgeon stated he would not be able to do duty during his enlistment - Leutenant [sic] Joseph Noyes who had the command of the company [?] [next several words cut off at bottom of paper] with money, and in Furlough to go home.
Page 6

[top portion of page is same as previous page]

Thence to Peekskill. Thence across Kings Ferry to Barret [sp?] Brook. Was in an engagement with a scouting party of the British; and Major [left blank] had his horses eye shot out. in March AD 1777 was discharged. AD 1778 for three months [two words underlined] at said Methuen enlisted as a volunteer into a Company of Militia of the State of Massachusetts commanded by Captain Nathaniel Gage the Regiment commanded by Colonel Jacob Gerrish. Marched to Winterhill and was a guard over Burgoyne's Army. In March was discharged. At Danvers in the State of Massachusetts in the Month of May AD 1778 enlisted into a company on the Continental Line of the State of Massachusetts under the command of Captain Cass the Regiment commanded by Colonel Wesson General Learned's Brigade; for the term of nine months. Marched to Fishkill State of New York -Put on a guard called Wood's Guard three months. Then at the Belahs [sp?] at Fishkill on the Knowes [sp? - perhaps Noyes] Guard. Afterwards detached to go assist in Building a Bridge over Cool Skill [sp?] River under the command of Colonel Carlton - when the Bridge was completed returned back to the Nowes [sp?] Guards. Thence Marched to join his Regiment at Danbury Heights. Thence marched back to Fishkill. Thence to West Point and staying there a few days marched back to Fish Kill and went into Winter quarters. He was also detached to cut wood at a place called Sulelien's [sp?] Fontune [sp?]. Then returned to camp sick with a Fever - after having been in camp a few days the Surgeon stated he would not be able to do duty during his enlistment - Leutenant [sic] Joseph Noyes who had the command of the company

[new text]

furnished him with money, and a Furlough to go home - and to pass all guards from thence to Boston. He then set out for Boston accompanied James Davis of the same company and from the same Town as himself - but he was feeble he did not arrive home so early as other soldiers who belonged to said company, And he would first then say that said Davis has been put on the Pension Roll under the act of Congress AD 1818 - and he would further say that he received a discharge after he arrived home - but that said discharge was destroyed by the Indians at Newry in the County of Oxford State of Maine AD 1781 when the town was plundered by them.
Page 7

We Daniel Gould a Clergyman residing in the Town of Rumford in the County of Oxford and State of Maine and John Kilgore residing in Newry in said County hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Benjamin Baker who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration that we believe him to be 77 years of age; that he is respected and believed in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution and that we concur in that opinion [signed] Daniel Gould
                                   John Killgore

Subscribed & Sworn to in open Court, the day & year aforesaid. [signed] Stephen Emery, Judge

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states. said applicant having adduced in corroboration of his own declaration the depicting of Nathan Swan, Joseph Jackson, Jessee Barker & Mary Segar - as also the certificate of Daniel Gould a clergyman of Rumford (there being no settled ordained Clergyman of Newry aforesaid) and of John Killgore, all on oath duly administered. Said Gould & Killgore being well known to the Court as men of good reputation for truth & veracity.
[signed] Stephen Emery, Judge

I Joseph G. Cole, Register of the Court of Probate do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Benjamin Barker for a pension. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 17th day of September A.D. 1832.
[signed] Joseph G. Cole Register
Page 8

13.592
Benjamin Barker
April 8" 1833
Obj 14.16.
13,592
p.322
2 years
$80--

P. C. Virgin Esqr
Rumford, Me,
Page 9

BRIEF in the case of Benjamin Barker of Newry in the State of Maine (Act 7th June, 1832.)

1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? open Court
2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?
3. How old is he? 77 years
4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed. 
[table follows with headings: "Period," "Duration of Service" in "Years, Months, Days," Rank, "Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served"]

Period October in 1774  8 months  Private
   Capt. Davis  Col. Frye

Period December 1776  4 months   Private
  Capt Marsh  Col. Carlton

Period 1777   3 months  Private  
   Capt Gage Col Gerrish

May 1778   9 months   Private
  Capt Cass  Col Wesson

5. In what battles was he engaged? none
6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Methuen Massachusetts
7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? By living witnesses
8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect?
Papers are not attached as required

I CERTIFY that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned. [signed] Richard Cutts
Examining Clerk.
Page 10

Declaration of ad 45 9558.
Dorcas Barker
Widow of Benjamin
Maine

Act 7 July 1838 & Joint
resolution of 23 Jany 1845
Married 1787
husband died 1841
widow yet alive see letter of 
Mr. Hammons
aowd [sp?] 2 years/in
$80
for 4 March 1836
aowd [sp?] acts 3 March 43
17 June 44 & 48
$80
for 4 March 1843

Hon D Hammons
House of Rep
Page 11

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Essex County ss.
I Josiah G. White, Clerk of the town of Methuen in the county of Essex in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do hereby certify, that among the records of marriages in said town I find recorded the marriage of Benjamin Barker to Dorcas Stevens, as follows.
"A List of marriages solemnized before Revd. Simon Finly Williams, Pastor of the first church in Methuen from the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty six."
"December Twenty seventh one thousand seven hundred eighty seven 
Benjamin Barker to Dorcas Stevens."
And I hereby certify that the above is a true copy of the record with the exception of the date, which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures as follows. '1786' 'Decem. 27 1787' [signed] Josiah G. White {Town Clerk of the Town of Methuen

I, Josiah G. White, above named depose & say that I hold the office of Town Clerk in the county, town and state aforesaid, and that the above is a true extract from the records of said town with the exception above named as certified by me
[signed] Josiah G. White {Town Clerk of the town of Methuen
Sworn to and subscribed this eighteenth day of July A. D. 1843
Before me [signed] John Tenney, Jus. Peace.
Page 12

[top of page is from previous page] in fair legible figures as follows. '1786' 'Decem. 27 1787' [signed] Josiah G. White {Town Clerk of the Town of Methuen

[new text below]

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Essex, ss.
I E. Shillaber, Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas within and for the County of Essex, do certify that John Tenney Esquire is a Justice of the Peace within and for said County; and that his signature hereon is genuine.
Witness my hand and the seal of said Court, at Salem, July eighteenth AD., 1843.
[signed] E. Shillaber Clerk.
Page 13

State of Maine
County of Oxford ss.
I the subscriber Clerk of the Judicial Courts within and for the County of Oxford hereby certify that Lyman Rawson whose genuine signature is annexed to the foregoing declaration of Dorcas Barker and also to the deposition of Joseph S. Barker and Lydia Barker is Judge of Probate and a Justice of the Peace within and for said County of Oxford
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court this second day of January 1844
[signed] Joseph Glover Clerk as aforesaid
Page 14

Affidavit
Page 15

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7. July 1838 also act of August 1842 and Act of March 3 1843 granting half pay and pension to certain widows - State of Maine 6H [?] ss.
On this the tenth day of December eighteen hundred & forty three. Personally appeared at a special Court held at Newry in said County of Oxford before the Subscriber Lyman Rawson Judge of the Probate Court for said County of Oxford Dorcas Barker of said being aged eighty five according to her, doth on her oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed 7 July 1838 entitled an Act granting half pay and pension to certain widows. That she is the widow of Benjamin Barker late of said Newry, deceased, formerly a Revolutionary soldier who served as a private in the Revolutionary War and was placed on the Pension Roll under act 7 June 1832 at the rate of eighty dollars per annum on the Maine agency and refers to the papers on file in support the facts & [illegible] set forth
She further declares that she was married to the said Benjamin Barker at Methuen County of Essex State of Massachusetts on the twenty seventh day of December in the year seventeen hundred & eighty seven, that her husband Benjamin Barker died at said Newry the fourteenth day of May 1841, that she was not married to him prior to his living [or "being"] the [?] but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seventeen hundred & ninety four, viz at the time above stated & that she still remains the evidence of said Benjamin Barker 
Attest [signed] Joseph S Barker
                         X her mark Dorcas Barker
Subscribed & sworn the day and year above written. Before [signed] Lyman Rawson Judge
Page 16

I Lydia Barker of Newry in the County of Oxford & State of Maine aged fifty two years, testify and say that I was well acquainted with Benjamin Baker late of said Newry deceased, that he was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States, that he died on the fourteenth of May 1841 and that he left a widow by the name of Dorcas Barker who still remains a widow and unmarried and now resides in Newry aforesaid. [signed] Lydia Barker

Oxford ss. December 13 1843
Personally appeared Lydia Barker a credible witness and made oath to the truth of the above affidavit by her subscribed.
Before me [signed] Lyman Rawson Justice Peace
Page 17

I Joseph S Barker of Newry in the County of Oxford & State of Maine, aged fifty three years, testify and say that I was well acquainted with Benjamin Barker late of Newry deceased, that he was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States, that he died on the fourteenth day of May 1841 and that he left a widow by the name of Dorcas Barker who still remains a widow and unmarried and now resides in Newry aforesaid.
[signed] Joseph S Barker

Oxford ss.  December 13 1843
Personally appeared Joseph S Barker a credible witness and made oath to the truth of the above affidavit by him subscribed.
Before me [signed] Lyman Rawson Justice Peace
Page 18

Benja Barker,
Page 19

I, Benjamin Barker do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the eighteenth day of March one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, and that I have not since that time, by gift, sale, or in any matter whatever disposed of my property or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress; entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary war" passed on the eighteenth day of March, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts due to me, nor have I any income, other than what is contained in the schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed. (signed) Benja Barker.

Schedule; containing the whole estate of me Benja Barker now of Methuen, and income except any necessary clothing and bedding.
No estate nor income whatever - - - $0.00
[signed] Benja Barker

I, Benjamin Barker, now of Methuen in the County of Essex Commonwealth of Massachusetts, but formerly of Newry in the County of Oxford in the State of Maine, depose and say that in the last of May or in June 1778, I inlisted [sic] into the service of the United States in the Revolutionary war for a term of nine months, I passed muster at Fish Kill in June and then entered the service in Capt Carr's company, Col. Wesson's Regiment in Gen. Learned's Brigade, and continued in said service during the whole of said term of nine months. I was sometimes taken off on guard; At the end of said term I was discharged by written discharge which has been lost a great many
Page 20

many years, I further say that I am by reason of my reduced circumstances in life in need of assistance from my country for support, and that I never had any pension.
I was seventy years old the fourth day of last September, and am altogether unable to labour [sic] to geta quarter enough to support me. I have a wife 67 years old last January very weakly & not able to do anything but a very little light work.
I once applied in April 1818 to Albion K. Parris a Judge of U.S. Court in Maine for my pension, & it was not allowed for want of proving my service, & the reason I did not look up more evidence since then is, that I was so poor that I could not get money to come or send into this part of the country where they could be found,
[signed] Benja Barker
Essex ss. Court of Common Pleas, December Term, A. D. 1825. Sworn to before Solo. Strong. Presiding Judge.
Page 21

Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
Essex ss. At the Court of Common Pleas, being a Court of record proceeding according to the course of the Common Law and having a jurisdiction unlimited in point of amount, began and held at Ipswich within and for the County of Essex; on this third Monday of December A. D. 1825. Before Solomon Strong, Esq. one of the Judges of said Court

I, Ichabod Tucker, Clerk of the Court aforesaid do hereby certify that the foregoing oath and schedule have been admitted to the record of the said Court, and I do further certify that it is the opinion of the said Court that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid schedule is nothing.["nothing is underlined]
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court on this twenty ninth day of December A. D. 1825.
[signed] Ichabod Tucker, Clerk
Page 22

Washington January 16. 1849.

Sir:
Upon receipt of your favour [sic] of the 2d instant. stating that the claim of Mrs. Dorcas Barker to a pension would be allowed upon proof that she was still living I wrote her son and also the agent for prosecuting the claim to furnish me with proof of the fact to be filed in the pension office.
I have received a reply from the agent but he neither states that she is or is not alive but enters  upon an argument to share that the requisition of such proof should not be made, I therefore conclude, or at least strongly suspect that she was not living at the date of mine in which I expressed my belief that she was & upon the strength of which you doubtless issued the certificate in her favour [sic].
I herewith return you certificates that the case may stand the same as before they were issued. I have given no notice of their being issued & you of course will require proof of her being still alive in the same manner as if mine had not been sent written.
Respectfully Yours
[signed] D. Hammons

Hon. J. L. Edwards
Page 23

[letterhead stationery] Office of Auditor for Interior Department

Treasury Department, Washington, July 18 1908

[circular mailroom stamp] RECORD DIVISION
JUL 20 1908

The Commissioner of Pensions:
Sir:
In reply to your letter of 15" instant you are informed that, according to the latest account rendered by the U. S. Pension Agent, at Maine the records of this office show payment to have been made to Dorcas Barker certificate No. 2964 at $80" per annum to December 15, 1844, date of death
Payment was made to Joseph S. Barker, only surviving child.
Letter herewith returned.
Respectfully,
[signed] R S Pinon Auditor

Form 3537.
Ed. Jan. 30-08-1,500.
Page 24

information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau. Benjamin Barker W. F. 23548

[following information in tabular form]

Dates of Enlistment or Appointment Oct. 1774
Length of Service. Apr. 20, 1775
Rank. Minuteman
Officers Under Whom Service Was Rendered.
Captain John Davis/ Colonel James Frye
State. Mass.

Date of Enlistment Apr. 20 1775 to Apr. 20 1776
Rank Corpl
Officers Captain John Davis/ Colonel James Frye
State. Mass

Date of enlistment Dec. 1776 - Apr. 1777
Rank [none listed]
Officers  Captain Nathaniel Marsh /Col. Carlton

Date of enlistment 1778 3 mos.
Rank [none listed] 
Officers Capt. Nathaniel Gage / Col. Jacob Gerrish

Date of enlistment May 1778 9 mos.
Rank [none listed] 
Officers Capt. Carr / Col. Wesson

Battles engaged in Engagement at Leachmere Point with British scouting party
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Methuen, Essex Co. Mass.
Date of application for pension, Apr. 17. 1818
Has claim al
Residence at date of application, Newry Oxford Co Mass. (Me.)
Remarks: Soldier married at Methuen Mass. Dec. 27 1787 Dorcas Stevens. She applied for pension Dec. 13, 1843 while a resident of Newry Me. aged 86 years. Her claim was allowed. She died Dec. 15. 1844. Joseph S. only surviving child in 1844.

Very respectfully,
Page 25

Haverhill M January 12. 1826.
To the Secretary of War,
Sir, at the request of Benjamin Barker of Methuen in this County, I now enclose to you a certified copy of his application & oath for a Pension, with the evidence of his service. If any question to the [paper damaged and words missing] it Justice Kneeland or myself to authenticate [words missing] to Hon. John Varnum of the House of Representatives who knows.
I have also enclosed the original application of said Barker made in 1818 before Judge Paris, for an additional evidence of his service. I apprehend that in the multiplicity of the business of your office, his term of service of 9 months escaped your attention, because the minutes of the rejection on that application seem not to notice that statement.
Mr. Barker thinks he is entitled by law to have his pension from that time; & if so you will undoubtedly be willing to so have it made up for him.
I hope, sir, I have enclosed all such evidence or statements as will be necessary for mr. Barker's case, & that you will forward to him or me at Haverhill Post office as soon as may be with convenience, that he may have some comfort in his old age.
With proper respect, I am your obedient servant.
[signed] Stephen Minot.


[round stamp] The National Archives of the United States
Page 26

Benjamin Barker,
Mass:
Stephen Minot,
Haverhill, Mass.

Rec'd 17 Jan: 1826.

Rejectd - See letter 19 
Jan: 1826.

To the Secretary of War
Washington City

Benjn Barker
Recd Jany 17 1826
Stephen Minot
Page 27

[This file is same as earlier #25.]

Haverhill M January 12. 1826.
To the Secretary of War,
Sir, at the request of Benjamin Barker of Methuen in this County, I now enclose to you a certified copy of his application & oath for a Pension, with the evidence of his service. If any question to the [paper damaged and words missing] it Justice Kneeland or myself to authenticate [words missing] to Hon. John Varnum of the House of Representatives who knows.
I have also enclosed the original application of said Barker made in 1818 before Judge Paris, for an additional evidence of his service. I apprehend that in the multiplicity of the business of your office, his term of service of 9 months escaped your attention, because the minutes of the rejection on that application seem not to notice that statement.
Mr. Barker thinks he is entitled by law to have his pension from that time; & if so you will undoubtedly be willing to so have it made up for him.
I hope, sir, I have enclosed all such evidence or statements as will be necessary for mr. Barker's case, & that you will forward to him or me at Haverhill Post office as soon as may be with convenience, that he may have some comfort in his old age.
With proper respect, I am your obedient servant.
[signed] Stephen Minot.


[round stamp] The National Archives of the United States
Page 28

Reported

H. Reso. 23 Jany '45
10531.
Maine
Dorcas Barker
Widow of Benj: Barker
who was a pensioner under the Act of 1832
and who died on the 14th May, 1841 
of Oxford in the State of Main
who was a Priv in the comy.
commanded by Captain Davis of the
Regt commanded by Col. Carlton in
the Revolution for 2 years
Inscribed on the Roll of Maine
at the rate of 80 Dollars --
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 11th day of Jany '49 and sent to Hon. D. Hammons, Hos of Reps
Total amount, $ [blank]
{Act July 7, 1838.}

Recorded by Th Lumpkin Clerk,
Book D Vol. 1 Page 1
Page 29

W. Ames
Immediate
attention
Page 30

House of Reps
Jany 11. 1849.
Sir:
From information upon which I can rely I am enabled to certify & de certify that Dorcas Barker widow of Benjamin Barker late of Newry Oxford County Me deceased & who was a revolutionary pensioner at the time of his decease was living a few days ago (Dec. 30th) & I have no doubt still is. Will you forward me her certificate as her application has been of long standing.
Respectfully yours
[signed] D. Hammons

Col. J. L. Edwards
Page 31

old case  29,061
Benjamin Barker
Private
Larned Reg
Mass: Line
9 mos
17 April 1818

Rejected; not having served nine months under one period of enlistment
Not on Rolls

[drawing of finger pointing] No one who enlisted in the spring of 1775 engaged for a longer period than 8 months.

Benjamin Barker
Page 32

I Benjamin Barker, a resident citizen of the United States of America, an inhabitant of Newry in the County of Oxford and State of Massachusetts, do testify and say, that on the twentieth day of April A. D. 1775, I enlisted into the army of the United States of America on the continental establishment for the term of eight months as a corporal in Capt. John Davis' company, Col. Frye's regiment in the Massachusetts line, in which company I continued to serve as aforesaid until the expiration of said term of eight months, when I again enlisted into the same company, without leaving the service, and continued in said company until about the twentieth day of April A. D. 1776, when I was discharged with a written recommendation which I have since lost. On the last of May or first of June A.D. 1778, I again enlisted into said army on the continental establishment as a private soldier in Captain Samuel Carr's company, Col. Learned's regiment, Gen. Wesson's brigade in the Massachusetts line, for the term of nine months, which term I fully served, when I received from said Col. Learned an honourable discharge, which I have since accidentally lost. I further testify that by reason of my reduced circumstances in life, I stand in need of assistance from my country for support and that I am not borne on any pension list of the United States. 
[signed] Benja Barker
Page 33

I Daniel Wight of lawfull [sic] age do testify and say that I was personally acquainted with Benjamin Barker and I know that he served as a soldier in the Revolution war in the nine months in the Massachusetts line and Continental armey [sic] in the year AD 1778 [signed] Daniel Wight

Oxford ss
on the 28th day of April in AD 1818
the aforesaid deponent was examined and sworn agreeable to Law to the truth of the above Deposition by him Subscribed taken at the Request of Benjamin Barker and by Virtue of a warrant to me directed from the Hon. Albion H. Parris Judge of the United States for the District of Main [sic] to be used in said Court holden in Parris within said District [signed] James Eames Justice of the peace
Page 34

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Maine District, ss.
BE it remembered, that on the seventeenth day of April in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, personally came Benjamin Barker the applicant named in the papers hereunto annexed, and after being duly cautioned and examined, made oath that the several statements by him made in the annexed application, signed in my presence, are wholly true.
And the said applicant further offered in evidence the deposition of Daniel Wight and Jonathan Barker, fellow soldiers with him in the revolutionary war, taken before James Eames, a respectable magistrate, appointed by [illegible] for this purpose; also the certificate of Asa Foster & others municipal officers of the corporation, to which said applicant belongs, relative to his circumstances in life; all  which are hereunto annexed.
And it appearing to me in the examination here had, that the several persons named are credible witnesses, I do hereby admit the annexed declarations as evidence, and certify the same as being satisfactory proof to me that the said Benjamin Barker the applicant, served as a private soldier in the revolutionary war, against the common enemy, for the term of nine months and upwards in continuation of the continental establishment. And I do further certify, that from the declaration of the applicant made before me, under oath as aforesaid, it does appear that in consequence of his reduced circumstances in life, he is in need of assistance from his country for support; all which I do hereby certify and transmit to the Secretary of the Department of War, agreeably to the provisions of an Act of Congress, passed March 18, 1818, entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war."
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused my official seal to be affixed the day and year first mentioned.
[signed] Albion K. Parris
Judge of the United States in and for the District of Maine
Page 35

State of Maine.
Oxford County, ss.
I, Rufus King Goodenow, Clerk of the Judicial Courts in and for said County of Oxford, certify, that Peter C. Virgin, Luke Reily & Samuel Poor whose genuine signatures are annexed to the foregoing Depositions of Jesse Barker, Mary Segar, Joseph Jackson & Nathan Swan are severally Justices of the Peace in and for said County of Oxford.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office, this 27th day of September in the year A. D. 1832.
[signed] R K Goodenow {Clerk of Oxford
                                       {County Courts.
Page 36

I Mary Segar of Bethel in the County of Oxford and State of Maine aged sixty seven years do testify and say that I have been personally acquainted with Benjamin Baker of Newry in said County of Oxford for about fifty years. And further say I was knowing that the Indians in the year 1781 at Newry plundered the dwelling house of said Barker - and destroyed all the property in his house except the Iron and crockery ware - and all the papers in his house were torn up and [illegible] and thrown into the fire. [signed] Mary Segar
State of Maine
County of Oxford ss
Subscribed and Sworn to this third day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two. Before me [signed] Peter C Virgin Justice of Peace

State of Maine
Oxford County ss  April 27, 1833
I certify that the above named Mary Segar is personally known to the subscriber as a person of fair reputation and entitled to credit
[signed] Peter C Virgin } Justice of the Peace
Page 37

Affidavits
Page 38

I Joseph Jackson of Newry in the County of Oxford and State of Maine do testify and say that I knew Benjamin Barker the present applicant at Cambridge in the year 1775 as a minuteman under the command of Capt Davis and that I also knew him in the state of Nyork [sic] in the nine months serving at Fishkil [sic] in the year 1778 under the command of Capt Car and Col Wesson and that the present applicant is the very identical Benjamin Barker who was his companion in arms at the aforesaid times and places  
[signed] Joseph Jackson

Oxford ss. August 2d 1832.
Personally appeared the above named Joseph Jackson and made oath that the above affidavit by him subscribed was true 
Before me [signed] Luke Reily Justice of Peace

We also know the Bearer Benjamin Barker above thirty and he always bore an unblemished Character [signed] Luke Reily

[signed] Joseph Jackson
State of Maine oxford County April 22 1833
I hereby Certify that the above named Joseph Jackson is personally known to me and that he is a man of fair character for truth
[signed] Luke Reily Justice of the Peace
Page 39

I Jonathan Barker of lawfull [sic] age do testify and say that I was personally acquainted with Benjamin Barker and I know that he served in the Revolution war in the Eight months since in Capt John Davis' Company and Col. James Fry's Regiment in the year 1775 and also know that he served in the nine months service in Capt Samuel Carr Company in Col James Wesson's Regt. in General Larned Brigade in the year of our Lord 1778 and 1779 being part in both years I being with him in said service both companies and in the same company, and knowing to his serving the full of both terms in Massachusets [sic] line
[signed] Jona Barker

Oxford ss
on the 28th Day of April in AD 1818
The aforesaid Deponent was Examined and [illegible] and sworn agreeable to law to the truth of the above deposition by him subscribed taken at the request of Benjamin Barker and by Virtue of a warrant to me Directed from the Hon Albion K. Parris Judge of the United States for the District of Main [sic] to be used in said Court holden at Parris within same District [signed] James Eames Justice of the peace
Page 40

I Jesse Barker of Newrey [sic] in the County of Oxford and State of Maine aged seventy years do testify and say that I was acquainted with Benjamin Barker in Methuen in the County of Essex and State of Massachusetts now of said Newrey [sic] an applicant for a pension under the Law of Congress AD 1832 was in the company of volunteer Militia under the command of Captain Nathaniel Gage in the Regiment commanded by Col [illegible] Gerrish at Winter Hill in the State of Massachusetts a guard over the army of Gen Burgoyne, 1778. And I further say that I was knowing to said Benjamin in enlisting in year 1776 into a volunteer company of Militia for three months commanded by Capt Nathaniel Marsh and Regiment commanded by Col Carlton, as stated by him in application. And I further say that I was knowing to said Benjamin enlisting in the continental army for nine months in the year 1779 in the company commanded by Captain Gage in the regiment commanded by Col Wesson and I further say that at the en[illegible] time of his enlistment he returned home to Methuen in company with James Davis - and when said Benjamin came home he was sick - and I further say that said Benjamin did not arrive home so soon as other soldiers who belonged to said company on account of his ill health. That I further say that when the said Benjamin arrived home, that he had a Furlough [illegible] and after being at home a short time Jonathan Barker of said Methuen went to Boston and obtained a discharge for said Benjamin & James Davis and gave it to them; and I have no doubt that said discharge was destroyed by the Indians at Newrey [sic] as stated by his declaration. as I know that the Indians plundered his home as he has stated.
[signed] Jesse Barker

Oxford ss State of Maine 
Subscribed & Sworn to this tenth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty two
Before me [signed] Peter C. Virgin Just Peace
Page 41

State of Maine
Oxford County ss  April 27, 1833
I certify that the within named Deponent Jesse Barker is personally know to me the Subscriber as a person of fair character and entitled to credit.
[signed] Peter C. Virgin Justice of the Peace
Page 42

I William Clough of Dracut in the County of Middlesex & Commonwealth of Massachusetts aged 73 years depose and say that I am acquainted with Benjamin Barker, lately of Newry in the county of Oxford and State of Maine, but now of Methuen in the County of Essex & Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
I know that in June 1778 he enlisted into the service of the United State[sic] in the revolutionary war for nine months.
I was in the same service, in Capt, Walker's company, Marshal [sp?] Regiment. The said Benjamin Barker and I passed muster together at Fishkill the 18th of June 1778, but he was put into another company.
I frequently saw him doing duty at Newtown, Dobb's ferry, at Soldier's Fortune, & other places during said time. I do not know when he came from the service, but I always understood that he served his whole time out.
I was well acquainted with him; we were brought up boys near each other.
[signed] William Clough

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Essex ss. December 17. 1825. Then the above named William Clough made oath that the above deposition by him subscribed is true, before me,
[signed] Stephen Minot, Justice of Peace
Page 43

I James Davis of Andover in the County of Essex & Commonwealth of Massachusetts Aged seventy one years depose & say that I have known Benja Barker from his youth he was lately of Newry in the County of Oxford & State of Maine but now of Methuen in the County of Essex & Commonwealth of Massachusetts & that I saw him in my House in Andover about one month since & that we talked about our being in the Revolutionary army in the year 1778. & that he enlisted about the last of May or the first of June in that year - in Col James Woods Regiment - Capt Carr Company & that he was my mess mate & stood with me during the whole time of nine month & that we both come home together Capt Carr health being such he was obliged to go home to illegible] his health & that Lieut Joseph Nouyes of Newbury at that time took the Command of the Company & that the said Lieut Joseph Noyes who is  now dead was one of the persons who certified in my behalf by which I was placed on the Pension List & I further say that the said Benjamin Barker passed muster at the same time I did. [signed] James Davis

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Essex ss Andover December 20. 1825
Then the above named James Davis made Oath that the above deposition by him subscribed is true before me 
[signed] John Kneeland
Justice of the Peace & of the [illegible]
Page 44

Benjamin Barker's
Certificate
Page 45

I Nathan Swan, of Andover County of Oxford and State of Maine, do testify and say that I was well acquainted with Benjamin Barker before the revolutionary war living in the same neighborhood with him in Methuen Mass. and that about the middle of October D. 1774 he the said Benjamin Barker went as a minute man and enlisted in the company under command of Capt John Davis, and on the 19th of April AD. 1775 went into actual service in the same company with myself; and that I knew him the said Benja Barker in the service During the term of nine months. And I further say that the present applicant is the same identical Benjamin Barker that was then my companion in arms.
I also further say that during the period of my acquaintance with the said Benjamin Barker for more than twelve years he bore an unblemished character.
[signed] Nathan Swan

Subscribed and sworn to this thirtieth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand and thirty two before me 
[signed] Samuel Poor Justice of the peace

State of Maine
Oxford County April 24, 1833
I hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the above named Nathan Swan and that he sustains a fair character and that he is a man of truth, and entitled to credit.
[signed] Samuel poor Justice of the peace
Page 46

United States of America }
District of Maine          ss.}
To James Eames of Newry in said District, Esq. Greeting Whereas at a special District court of said United States for Maine District, holden at Paris on the seventeenth day of April 1818, Benjamin Barker of Newry in said District, presented himself and claimed a certificate of his having served in the war of the revolution against the common enemy for the purpose of receiving from said United States, a pension agreeable to the provisions of an act of Congress passed March 18. 1818 entitled "an Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land & naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war"; and whereas in the
Page 47

course of the examination here had, it appears, that the testimony of Daniel White and Jonathan Barker of Newry of said District is material and necessary in support of said application. Therefore to the end that the testimony aforesaid may be hand, and by virtue of the power rested in this Court by the laws of the United States, you the said James Eames are appointed and authorised, [sic] at the proper expense of the applicant, to take the depositions of the said Daniel White and Jonathan Barker touching said application, and the same when taken to certify and return together with this warrant, to the Judge of said
Page 48

Court without unnecessary delay. Given under my hand and seal this seventeenth day of April, eighteen hundred & eighteen.
[signed] Albion K. Parris
Judge of the United States in and for the District of Maine
Page 49

We the subscribers, selectmen of the town of Newry in the District of Maine do hereby certify that we are personally acquainted with Benjamin Barker of said town, and from what we know of his situation, it is our opinion that by reason of his reduced circumstances in life he is in need of assistance from his country for support.
Dated at Newry aforesaid this 27th day of April 1818
[signed] Asa Foster    } selectmen of
             John Killgore }  said town of
             James Eames }    Newry
Page 50

House of Reps
Jany 2. 1849.
Dear Sir;
Yours of to-day has been received. Mrs. Dorcas Barker was living a few days before I left Maine which was about a month ago. I have written to ascertain if she is still living.
Mrs. Abigail Obrions application for a pension was attached to the bible containing the original family record and both were mailed at Portland Dec. 5th or 6th 1848.
Should you not be able to find it will you do me the favour to so inform me that I may write her -
Respectfully yours
[signed] D. Hammons.

Col. J. L. Edwards.
Page 51

House of Reps.
Dec. 29th 1848.

Dear Sir;
I would take the liberty of calling your attention to the applications of Abigail O'Brion and Dorcas Barker both of Me. for pensions. The former applies under the act of 1848 & the latter under that of 1838. I am aware of the pressure of business in your office, but you will confer a favour upon the applicants by giving their claims an early consideration -
Mrs. B's application I am informed is of very long standing -
Respectfully yours
[signed] D. Hammons.

Hon. J. L. Edwards
Page 52

And I further Certify, That, before search made for evidence of said facts, the application hereto annexed was filed in this Office, in the form in which the same now appears; that the search was made by myself and my clerks alone; and that said application, and the certificate set forth, contain all the facts and circumstances within my knowledge, pertaining to the case.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
[signed] John G Palpey, Secretary of the Commonwealth
Page 53

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston;
Aug. 9 1845.
I hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents, relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that the name of Benjamin Barker is borne upon a list of the men raised in the several counties, for the purpose of filling and completing the 15 battalions of Continental troops, for the term of 9 months from the time of their arrival at Fishkill, under a resolve of April 20, 1778, -- as a private from Danvers; -- also upon a muster roll of the same, taken Aug. 9 -- arrived at Fishkill, June 27th & Upon a descriptive list of the same; -- being all the evidence of service in the case. No note of said Barker having deserted at any period, as mentioned in the annexed letter, appears upon either of the above, or upon any other record in this office.
Page 54

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston;
Oct. 3, 1844.

I hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents, relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that the name of Benjamin Barker of Danvers is borne upon a roll of men that enlisted at Danvers June 27, 1778 and went to Fishkill to serve nine months, and the name of Benjamin Barker of Methuen is also borne upon a roll of the same description.
The rolls are signed by the Deputy [?] Marsh at Fishkill in August 1778.
There are no rolls of Capt Marsh Col Colton or of Capt Cass Col Wesson in the Office, and the rolls of Col Frye, & of Capt Gage, Col Gerrish do not bear the name of Benjamin Barker.
Page 55

And I further Certify, That, before search made for evidence of said facts, the Commissioned letter of Aug 3, 1844 was filed in this Office; that the search was made by myself and my clerks alone; and that the certificate above set forth, contain all the facts and circumstances within my knowledge, pertaining to the case.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
[signed] John G Palpey;
Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Page 56

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office: Boston,
Dec. 17th. 1844
Sir,
The name of Benjamin Barker does not appear upon any of the accounts in the Army Books, or upon any Rolls in this office, of Capt. Lane, Col. Nixon, either in 1778 or any other period of the war.
I have the honor to be your obedient servant,
[signed] John G Palpey.

J. L. Edwards Esq
Page 57

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston;
20th Dec. 1844.
Sir;
On a [illegible] examination of the case of Benjamin Barker, I must say that it seems to me probably that B. B. of Danvers is the same man as B. B. of chatham, [illegible] on our Roll with the [?] of his [illegible], or the other with [illegible] of his enlistment.
T[?] the "list of the men [illegible] in the [illegible] counties under the [illegible] of April 20th 1778. Benjamin Barker of Danvers is [illegible] under Escape. [illegible] is also in Essex county but there is one Benjamin

J. L. Edwards Esq

TRANSCRIPT IS INCOMPLETE
Page 58

jamin Barker of Methuen on the roll.
On the other roll, headed "a description list of the continental soldiers raised by the town of Danvers agreeable to a [?] of the 20th of April, 1778." The case of Benjamin Barker is [illegible] first as of Danvers, but with the word chatham against his name was in the right column, thus:
John oakman          Danvers
Benjamin Barker         Do.        chatham

It is observable further, that on both these rolls [illegible] the name of Peter Barker of Danvers, while the name of Peter Barker also appears on "a [?] role of the six months", men for the town of Methuen
Page 59

Methuen for the year 1780."

Very respectfully, I have
the honor to be your obedient servant,
[signed] John G Palpey.
Page 60

House of Reps.
Dec. 18, 1848,
Dear Sir;
I would take the liberty of calling your attention to the application of Dorca Barker of Maine widow of Benjamin Barker, I think, for a pension. Mrs. Barker is an applicant under the act of 1838 & her husband was a pensioner at the time of his decease.
I suppose she is entitled to be placed upon the roll under the resolve of the last session relative to evidence; if so please forward me her certificate as soon as convenient.
Very Respectfully
[signed] D Hammons

Col J L Edwards
Page 61

Benjn Barker                              Nov 4 1844
entered 27 June 1778                 me
under col nixon confer               ajjlh'ff [unsure]
S[?]  deserted 27 Apr 1778         Dorcas Barker

[Between 2 columns is written] additional evidence

James L Edwards Esq
Com of Pensions
Was City
Page 62

Washington Nvr. 3 1844.
Sir/
Your letter of the 3 Aug last in the case of Dorcas Barker widow of Benjamin. of Maine was duly received. I now enclose you a certificate of the Secretary of State of Mass, giving [illegible] evidence his rolls afford of the services of Benj. Barker. It appears that in no rolls in the Secr. office or Col Mason ref 2. It is very probable the returns in the Department of State, afford evidence of Col. Frye-Col Colton-Col Gerrish and Col Wesson's regiment. There are many returns if I do not mistake, from Massachusetts commencing early in the war of the revolution.
If the certificate herewith enclosed, with the evidence on file is Benjamin Barker's papers, index at 1832, he is not sufficient to front the widow a pension at the rate her husband rec'd. I now request the form, to apply to the Department of State.
I am very
respectfully
Your Obt Ser
[signed] Alex. Ray

Jas. L Edwards Esq
Comr of Pensions
Page 63

Payment to be made at Portland by Wm Woodbury, Esq.
Agent for paying Pensioners in the Agency of Maine.
Payable on the 4th September and 4th March

Recorded in the Pension Office on the Roll of Pensioners under act February 2d, 1848, Page 2, Vol. 1,
[signed] Th Lumpkin;
Clerk.
Page 64

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Widow's Pension.
I certify that in conformity with the Act of February 2d, 1848, 
Dorcas Barker, of Maine, widow of Benjamin Barker, who was a Private in the revolutionary war, is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum, commencing on the 4th of March, 1848, and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.
Given at the War Office of the United States this 11th day of January, one thousand eight hundred and forty-nine.
[signed] W. L. Marcy 
Secretary of War.

Examined and Countersigned.
J L Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 65

Record Division            Case filed on desk of
W.F. No. 23548              O. L. U., Ex'r.
Dorcas, wid. of
Benjamin Barker
Rev. War
Department of the Interior,
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C., July 15, 1908

SIR:
For use in the above-entitled claim for pension, you are requested to furnish this Bureau with a report in the case of Dorcas, widow of Benjamin Barker pensioned under the Act of Feb'y 2, 1848 by certificate No. 2964, which issued Jany 11, 1849, Maine Agency, showing date of death, date of last payment of pension and to whom paid.
Very respectfully,
J. L. Davenport, Acting Commissioner.

The Auditor for the Interior Department,
Treasury Department.
Page 66

Sept. 2, 1845.
These papers were probably sent to me through mistake. I therefore respectfully transmit them to the Commr of Pensions
[signed] A. K. Parris Comr.

Adal [sp?] to case Dorcas Barker

Sept 5o 1,
1S45

[turning the paper upside down is the following]

South Newry, Me   Pd/0
August 28
Hon Albion K Paris, Esqr
Pension department
Washington
Page 67

Newry August 18th 1845
To the Honorable Albion K Parris  Sir--
The case of Benjamin Barker has been re examined at my request at the secretary office Boston and I transfer to you the surtificate [sic] of the secretary of Massachusetts I wrote to the secretary because I new [sic] that there must be a mistake as to his deserted for he was taken sick in November 1778 at Fishkill and remained un fit for military duty and received a deschure [discharge] from a surgeon of the Regement [sic] Jesse Barker a Revolutionary Bostoner now living here is willing to testify under oath that he is the surgeon give him his discharge Peter Virgin Esq and myself did employ Alexander Ray of Washington to lay the case of Dorcas Barker the widow of the deceased Benjamin Barker for a penton [sic] before you and he says he has and it was rejected on account of desertion and that no evidence will now be received only from the records. Them that was Benja Barkers evidence are all ded [sic] cept Jesse Barker Dier [sic] sir we thank when you receive this and the records that you have before you of his services on record and the evidence that was mad[e] when he obtaned [sic] his pention [pension] we think your honours [sic] will without delay grant the widow her pention [sic] your most obedient servant [signed] Joseph S Barker
[?] please adress [sic] your letters to me South Newry
Page 68

Invalid
REJECTED
No. 495
Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.

Benjamin Barker
Page 69

[Same as previous page]
Invalid
REJECTED
No. 495
Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.

Benjamin Barker
Page 70

59 Oxford St.
Somerville, Mass.
July 2, 1908.
In the list of Maine pensioners in the Census of 1840, I find Benjamin Barker of Newry, Oxford Co.
If you can send me data additional to that in the printed list, I shall esteem it a favor -
Very truly
[signed] (Miss) Ella F. Elliot

To the Bureau of Pensions
Washington, D. C.
Page 71

Dorcas Barker
living in Me or Mass
23548

[round mailroom stamps] U.S. PENSION OFFICE  A Jul 3 1908
RECORD DIVISION JUL 7 1908
Page 72

Hon. J. L. Edwards
Com. of Pensions
Washington D. C.

[following is written on same paper turned]
Dec 19/08
Ames
Dorcas Barker M[next letters unclear]
Hon D. Hammons
Page 73

104/10
Dorcas Barker
Maine
Rejected
[?] and Hammon Jany 2, 49,
Sent to A. Ray, August 31-44
   "     "  J. G. Palpey Decem 14. 44
   "     "   Do                "        20. 44
   "     "  A. Ray    Jany 22. 45
   "     "  J. S. Baker Sept 4. '45
              Act 7 July 1838
Page 74

8461.
Maine
Dorcas Barker
widow of Benjn Barker
who was a Private
in the Revolution
husband died 14 May '41.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80 Dollars --Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843. Eudg [sp?] 15 Dec 1844
Certificate of pension issued the 11th day of Jany. 49 and sent to Hon. D. Hammons
House of Reps.
Page 75

1908 July 15 Aud. for Int. Dept
for date of last payment of
pension & to whom paid.
1908 July 8 Hist to Ella F
Elliot V. L. U.

Rev
WIDOW, & c.
File No. 23548
Dorcas Barker
Wid of
Benj Barker
Priv. Rev War
Act Feb 2d 1848
Index: Vol A,  Page 40
(Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 76

Mrs.  S. R. Child of
914 Kenwood Parkway
Minneapolis, Minn
called at the Bureau on Feb. 17, 1916 and
requested copies of
papers in the
following Rev. War pension claims
                                                                    pages
Abner Foster, Mass. Troops.  W. File 23050.    2      3 Sheets
David Sessions, N.H. Troops. S. File   37380.            1     "
Benj. Barker  Mass Troops.    W. File   23548    7.      8     "
Joseph Dresser, Mass Troops, S. File  31656.    2      4     "
Abijah Child       Mass Troops, S. File 34184     1       1    "
OF


Total
17
15
85
17
2.55
Page 77

money order for $2.55 received in
OX
RUB
Rev War Sec
(Law Div)
CHIEF'S DESK
Mail & Supplies
FEB 19 1916
Division
U. S. BUREAU OF PENSIONS               PV

Please have money order
for $2.55 payable to the
order of the Secretary
of the Interior forwarded
to the Commissioner of
Pensions in five Rev
War pensions

Date Feb. 28, 1916.
Benjamin Barker No. W.23548
Rev. War
Photographic copies wanted of  7
pieces, consisting of   8 pages
Remarks
ASWilson   Bur.                  Chief Rev. War Section
APPROVED     L S Cannon
               Chief, Law Division.
Serial 992
No
Page 78

LAW DIVISION RWB
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
Finance Division.
Feb 19, 1916
Chief Rev War Section.
Sir:
I have this day received from Mrs. S. R. Child, M. O. No. 26,289 for $2.55, Five Rev. War pension claims as per letter herewith.

Feb 29 1916 Finance Division as to disposition of M.O.  RWB Law
Very respectfully,
Wm. Campbell  JJC.
Chief of Division.
Page 79

Mrs. S. R. Child
914 Kenwood Parkway
Minneapolis, Minn.

Madam:
In compliance with your personal request of the 17th last., you will find herewith photographic copies of certain evidence on file in this Bureau in the following named Revolutionary war cases:

Abner Foster,         Mass. Troops W. File 23050.
David Sessions,      N. H.      "        S.   "   37380.
Benj. Barker,          Mass.     "        W.  "   23548.
Joseph Dresser,       "           "        S.    "  31656.
Abijah Child,            "           "        "      " 34184.

Respectfully,
E. C. TIEMAN
Acting Commissioner.

RWB/EAO
Page 80

Jennings' depo.
Page 81

I Elijah Jenning of Methuen of lawful age depose and say I know Benjamin Barker of Methuen I live within half a mile of him.
I do not know of any property whatever belonging to him except his cloths & a bed; & believe him to be wholly destitute of property.
[signed] Elijah Jenning

Essex ss. December 22. 1825
Then the above named Elijah Jenning made oath that the above named declaration by him subscribed is true, before me,
[signed] Stephen Minot, Justice of Peace
Page 82

Benjamin Barker Mr.  act 7 June 1832  $80.00

To what time what he last paid? GlA

Pension Office            Died 14th May 1841.
January 10 1849          Paid to his death.
                                           BLB.
Page 83

10460    R    Jany 23 1844

R. S.
D. Barker
7 Jny 1838

James L. Edwards Esq
Com of Pensions
Page 84

Washington
Jan 22. 1844
Sir:
I enclose you the declaration of Dorcas Barker widow of Benjamin late of Maine dec'd. for the benefit of the act 7 July 1838.
The papers accompanying identify the widow, states the period of the husbands death, that he was a pensioner under act 1832, and the time the marriage took place, the 27 Dec 1787.
I am yours
most respectfully
[signed] Alex. Ray
Page 85

Dorcas Barker, dec'd.
widow two year for
$80 per annum
Acts 38
43 & 44, ending 15 December 1844, when she died, payable to Josph S. Barker, only surviving child.
This certificate issued in lieu of one dated 11 January 1849

S. G. Berret
Present