Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 23819, Thomas Clarke, R.I.
Page 1

(8-1776)

SERVICE
R. I.

Clarke, Thomas
Sarah

NUMBER
W.23819
===========
CONTENTS
Page 2

CLARKE, THOMAS
(R.I.)
W23819
Page 3

30
Rhode Island 
Sarah Clarke decd widow of Thomas Clark 
who died on the ~
of Washington Co. in the State of R.I. 
was a Major/Captain in the ~ commanded
by Captain ~ of the commanded 
by ~ in the ~ 
line for 9 mos Major & 6 mos Captain 
Inscribed on the Roll of Providence 
at the rate of 345 Dollars 00 Cents 
per annum, to commence on the 4th day of
March, 1831, ending 30 October 1842 
Certificate of Pension issued the 24 day of March 1831 and sent to  A. H. Lawrence
Arrears to the 4th of Present 
SemiAnnual allowance ending 
{Revolution 
{Act July 4, 1836
{Section the
[Seal for THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES FOR THE UNITED STATES found in the upper right-hand corner]
Page 4

Declaration
In order to obtain the Benefit of the Third Section of the Act of
Congress of the fourth of July 1836 —
State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations —
County of Washington
Town of North Kingston } Sc 
On this 6th day of August 1836, personally appeared 
before Sylvester G Shearman a Justice of the Peace for the town 
of North Kingston in said County of Washington, Sarah Clarke, 
a resident of and in North Kingston, aged Eighty two years who being 
first duly sworn according to Law, doth on her Oath make the
following Declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the Provision 
made by the Act of Congress, passed July 4th 1836. That she is the 
widow of Thomas Clarke deceased, who was Captain of the 
first Company of Militia of the town of North Kingston, in the 
year 1775 & part of the year 1776 and also a Major in the 
Militia in the year 1777, as appeared from the Commission of 
the said Thomas Clarke, which are forwarded herewith. In 
December 1775, he went on to the Island of Connecticut an Island 
in Narragansett Bay, which the Enemy had landed upon a burnt 
many Houses, he was gone away this time one week — 
the order of Captain Clarke, calling the company together for that
purpose marked it is hereto annexed — In the year 1776, he served 
as Captain, and was engaged on duty all the time, stationed at the 
Willson House in Aquidnesett Neck in North Kingston — I know that 
he was on duty all the time, as he did not stay at home any 
length of time to attend to his affairs & the Enemy had several casualties in
the Bay & many times landed & committed depredations on Guard
Page 5

kept up for the Militia on the shore all the time and my Husker was always on duty and could not lay at home at all.  In the Winter of 1777 he was chosed Major of the Regiment & hald the office up to May 1778-  During all that time he was constantly on duty, as the Enemy had then possession of Newport, and did not stay at home, to attend to his affairs at all-  In the spring of that year he was stationed at I reccollect [recollect] several Months at Wickford and in the summer he was stationed at the Willson Huder Aquidnesett [Aquidnesset] Neck some and also at the home of Amos Gardiner & Roulend Rolinson in Boston Neck and in the fall of that year, he was two Months at Tiverton, in the time of General Spencers expedition.  He was at the taking of he English Ship Syren, which was on shore near the South Ferry-  I do not remember that he slept at home, more than one Night, all the time he was Major-  He was constantly on duty, during the times I have mentioned, commanding or posting Guard, or apprehending Tories, which were very numerous in our parts-  And I further make oath & say that I am unable to leave home to maky my application in Court as I have not been out of the House in a year past, nor out of my room since last December, being unable to walk.
And I further depose & say, that I was married to the said Thomas Clarke on the twentieth day of Decemb [December] 1770, being previous to my Marriage called Sarah Case, as appears by the Certificate of Marriage hereto annexed & that my Husband the said Thomas Clarke died at said North Kingston, on the twentieth day of April 1813, and that I have remained a Widow ever since that period, as will more fully appear, by reference to the proof hereto annexed-  That I have no documentary evidence of his service other than the papers forwarded herewith-
her signature [hand drawn X] Sarah Clarke
Witness Sylvester G Shearman
Justice of he Peace
Page 6

Washington ss- In North Kingston
August 6th 1836-
Personally appeared before me, the Subscriber a Justice of the Peace of the Town of North Kingston, in the County of Washington, Sarah Clarke, whose signature is affixed to the annexed Declaration, and made solemn oath to the truth of the same, and the same was by me reduced to writing in her presence & she being unable from old age to write her name, made her Mark in my presence & I wrote her name, in her presence and I further certify that the said Sarah Clarke is well known to me and that her character for truth & veracity is good and that she is unable to leave home, to make her Declaration before any Court-
Sylvester G Shearman
Justice of the Peace
Page 7

I hereby certify that Thomas Clarke of North Kingston son of Elisha and Sarah Case of sd North Kingston daughter of Joseph was lawfully married in said North Kingston on the 20 day of December Anno Dommini [Domini] 1770 by me the subscriber-
Soloman Sprague  Elder
Recorded July 20th 1771 
per Geo. Northup, T. Clk. 
Town Clerks Office  North Kingston  July 26 1838
I hereby certify the above certificate of marriage to be a true copy of Record in this office
Nichs. N. Spink  T. Clk
Page 8

Certificate of Court as to hardship & administration of Sarah Clark R. I 
widow of Thos. Clark
died 30th October 1842
Page 9

State of Rhode Island
Washington County and
Town of North-Kingston} ss:
It is hereby certifyed [certified] that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited before the Probate Court of the Town County & State afforsaid [aforesaid] to prove that Sarah Clark Widdow [Widow] of Thomas Clark a Revolutionary Pensioner died in this County & Town afforsaid [afforesaid] on the 30th day of October A. D. Eighteen hundred and forty-two (1842) and that Esther Cooper whose Husband was Louis Cooper Deceased Thomas Clark.   Anna Case whose Husband was Elisha Case.  Deceased Sarah Clark.  Mary Waite whose Husband was John Waite deceased.  Benjamin T. Clark.  John Clark, and Betey Clark only Children now surviveing [surviving] the said Widdow [Widow], and her deceased Children are Joseph Clark Deceased whose only child is Thomas Clark.  William Clark Deceased whose children are Frederick, Joseph, William, Betey, Ann, Mary and Caroline.  Elisha Clark Deceased whose Children are Harold & William.  Hannah Gardiner Deceased whose Husband was Joseph Gardiner deceased and whose Children are Abby, Betey & Mariah.
I further Certify that Letters of Administration has been duly granted by said Probate Court to George C. Clark of said County to inable [enable] him to Collect Such Increase of Pension or arrears as may be due said Widdow [Widow] for the benefit of her Children above named
In Testimony in which I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 10th day of February one Thousand Eight hundred and fifty one (1851)
Saml. Peirce  P. Clerk.
Page 10

November 16, 1934
Thomas Clarke-W.23819
BA-J/AWF
Mrs. Maude A. Horn
Georgetown 
California
Dear Madam:
The record which follows was obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, W. 23619, based upon the Revolutionary War service of Thomas Clarke.
The date and place of birth of Thomas Clarke are not shown in the claim; he was the son of Elisha Clarke, the name of his mother not given.
Thomas Clarke, while residing in North Kingston, Rhode Island, was commissioned June 19, 1775, Captain of the 1st company or Trained Band of North Kingston, served in the 2nd regiment of Rhode Island militia, commanded by Colonel Ray Sands; he was commissioned January 3, 1777, Major of the 2nd regiment, commanded by Colonel Charles Dyer.  He was in Generals Spencer's and Sullivan's Expeditions and aided in capturing the British vessel "Syren", which ran ashore near the South Ferry, and continued in the service until the British left Rhode Island.
Thoman Clarke married December 20, 1770 in North Kingston, Rhode Island, Sarah Case; they were both then of North Kingston.  Sarah Case was the daughter of Joseph Case, the name of her mother not given, nor is it stated when and where she was born.
Thomas Clarke died April 20, 1813 in North Kingston, Rhode Island.  The widow, Sarah Clarke,was allowed pension on her application executed August 6, 1836, then
(See notation on inside of blue file jacket attached-)
Page 11

aged eighty-two years and living in North Kingston. She died in said North Kingston, October 30, 1942.

In 1851 their only surviving children were: Esther, widow of Louis Cooper; Anna, widow of Elisha Case; Mary, widow of John Waite; Thomas Clarke; Sarah Clarke; Benjamin T. Clarke; John Clarke; Betsey Clarke. Other children referred to in 1851, as follows: Joseph Clarke deceased, whose only child is Thomas Clarke; William Clarke deceased, whose children are Frederick, Joseph, William, Betsey, Ann, Mary, and Caroline; Elisha Clarke deceased, whose children are Hariot and William; Hannah Gardiner deceased, whose husband was Joseph Gardiner deceased and whose children are Abby, Betsey, and Mariah.

George C. Clark of Washington County, Rhode Island administered on the estate of the widow, Sarah Clarke. There is no relationship shown between the said George C. Clark (as he signed in 1851) and the family of Thomas Clarke.

Very truly yours

A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
Page 12

Northkingstown
Northking[?]

CLARKE, THOMAS
(R.I.) W23819
Page 13

The United States of America To Thomas Clarke, Sr.
Northkingston Decemr. 15 AD 1776

Decem 1776
To the Damage Done my house in Quartering troops in it from the year 1776 to the year 1780 neat[?] money
To Damages Done in cutting a number of Single trees by the troops not receipts for and Destroying of fruit in my orchard

May 1778
To a Large pair of oxen taken off by the Enemy

[stamp] THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF THE UNITED STATES [/stamps]
Page 14

Rhode Island 30
Sarah Clarke
Washington Co in the State of R.I.
who was a [blank] in the [blank] commanded by Captain [blank] of the [blank] commanded by [blank] in the [blank] [struck through] line for [/struck through] Widow of Thomas Clarke dec who was Captain and Mayor 6 months

Inscribed on the Roll of R.I. at the rate of 135 Dollars ___ Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 24 day of Sept 1836 and sent Hon D. J. Pearce Newport R.I.

Arrears to the 4th of Sept. 1836 $675.00
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Mar '37 67.50
---
$742.57
{Revolutionary Claim, Act July [illegible], 1836}

Recorded by D D Addison Clerk, Book [blank] Vol. [blank] Page 99

[illegible] let. to W. R. Noyes, Nov. 16, 183[cut off]
To same January 11, 18[cut off]
Let. of reference to that addressed to Noyes on Jan 7-11, 1838, to Hon. R. B. Cranston, January 22, 1838.
Let. to Wm. R. Noyes Augt. 15, 1838. (found in "O.C."[?])
Let. to Hon. J. L. Tillinghast (with copies) ("G.C.") March 6, 1840.
Page 15

November 16, 1934
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
BA-J/EEL

Mrs. Maude A. Horn
Georgetown
California

Dear Madam:

Reference is made to your letter in which you request information in regard to Joseph Holliday of North Carolina, Thomas Holliday of North Carolina, Thomas Webb, of Rhode Island, and Captain Thomas Clark, of Rhode Island, soldiers of the Revolutionary War.

Revolutionary War data furnished by this office are obtained from claims made to the United States for pension and bounty land based upon military service of soldiers of that war.

A careful search of the Revolutionary War records has been made and no record found of such claims having been made based upon the military service in that war of a Thomas Webb, of Rhode Island, or of a Joseph or Thomas Holliday, under any spelling of that surname.

The record of Thomas Clarke, W.23819, who served as a captain in the Rhode Island Troops, has been found and his history is furnished you herewith.

Very truly yours

A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator.
Page 16

aws.[?]

Rev. War Section.

June 18, 1923.

Mrs. William F. Spencer,
Afton,
New York.

Madam;

In response to your letter of April 24, 1923, I have to advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 23819, it appears that Thomas Clarke, son of Elisha Clarke, was commissioned June 19, 1775, Captain of the First Company or Trained Band or North Kingston, Rhode Island, served in the 2d Regiment Rhode Island Militia under Colonel Ray Sands; was commissioned January 3, 1777, Major of the 2d Regiment commanded by Colonel Charles Dyre [handwritten: Dyer] and continued in the service until the British left Rhode Island.

He was in General Spencer's and Sullivan's Expeditions and aided in capturing the British vessel "Syren" which ran ashore near the South Ferry. [illegible handwriting]

He died April 20, 1813 at North Kingston, R. I.

Soldier married at North Kingston, R. I. December 20, 1770, Sarah Case, daughter of Joseph Case; she was
Page 17

allowed pension on her application executed August 5, 1836, while a resident of North Kingstown, R.I aged 83 years. She died October 30, 1842.
     In 1851 their only surviving children were; Thomas, Sarah, Benjamin T., John and Betsey Clarke , Esther,  Widow of John Waite. Other children referred to 1851; " Joseph Clarke decreased, whose children are Frederick, Joseph, William, Betsu, Ann, Mary and Caroline; Elishasha Clarke deascread, whose children are Harriot and William Clarke , and Hannah Gardiner deceased, whose children are Abby, Betsey and Mariah Gardiner." 
   The Revolutionary War records of this Bureau fall to afford any information in regards to Barnabas Allen as described by you or to any Joes Blaokmer 
                      Respectfully, 

                                 Commissioner.
Page 18

Rev. War Section.

October 24, 1914.

Col. William E. Horton,
Governor's Island, N. Y.

Sir:

In response to your letter dated the 19" instant, you are advised that from the papers in claim W. File No. 23,819, Rev. War, it appears that Thomas Clarke, son of Elisha Clarke, was commissioned June 19, 1775, Captain of the First Company or Trained Band of North Kingston, Rhode Island, served in the Second regiment Rhode Island Militia under Colonel Ray Sands; was commissioned January 3, 1777, Major of the Second regiment commanded by Colonel Charles Dyre, and continued in the service until the British left Rhode Island.

He was in Generals Spencer's and Sullivan's expeditions and aided in capturing the British vessel "SYREN" which ran ashore near the South Ferry.

He married at North Kingston, Rhode Island, December 20, 1770, Sarah Case, daughter of Joseph Case.

Thomas Clarke died April 20, 1813, at North Kingston, and his widow was allowed pension on her application executed August 6, 1836, while eighty-two years of age and a resident of North Kingston, Rhode Island, where she died October 30, 1842.

In 1851 their only surviving children were: Thomas, Sarah,
Page 19

Benjamin T., John and Betsey Clarke, Esther widow of Louis Cooper, Anna widow of Elisha Case and Mary widow of John Waite.  Other children referred to in 1851:  "Joseph Clarke deceased, whose only child is Thomas: William Clarke deceased, whose children are Frederick, Joseph, William, Betsey, Ann, Mary and Caroline; Elisha Clarke deceased, whose children are Harriot and William Clarke, and Hannah Gardiner deceased, whose children are Abby, Betsey and Mariah Gardiner."
Very respectfully,
G M Saltzgaber
Commissioner.
Clarke. -2
Page 20

August 3, 1907.
Miss E. Alice T. Miller,
c/o State Record Commissioner
Providence, R. I.
Madam:
In reply to a letter from Mr. R. Hammett Tilley, State Record Commissioner, dated the 10th ultimo and received the 20th, you are herewith furnished statements of service of Thomas Clarke and Thomas Clark, Rhode Island Troops, found on the Revolutionary War pension records of this Bureau.
Sarah Clarke ^the widow of Thomas Clarke, was granted pension (^wid. File #23819 ^Rev. War) on her application executed August 6, 1836, at which time she was eighty-two years of age and a resident of North KIngston, Rhode Island.  From the papers on file in support of her claim it appears that her husband, Thomas Clarke, son of Elisha Clarke, was commissioned June 19, 1775 Captain of the First Company or Trained Band of North Kingston, Rhode Island, served in the Second regiment Rhode Island Militia under Colonel Ray Sands, was commissioned January 3, 1777 Major of the Second Regiment, commanded by Colonel Charles Dyre, and continued in the service until the British left Rhode Island.
It is alleged that Major Thomas Clarke was in Generals
Page 21

-2-
Miss E. Alice T. Miller.
Spencer's and Sullivan's expeditions and captured the British vessel "Syren" which ran ashore near the South Ferry.
He [The soldier crossed out] married at North Kingston, Rhode Island, December 20, 1770, Sarah Case, daughter of Joseph Case.
Thomas Clarke died April 20, 1813, at North Kingston, Rhode Island, where his widow died October 30, 1842.
In 1851 their ^only surviving children were Thomas, Sarah, Benjamin T., John and Betsey Clarke, Esther widow of Louis Cooper, Anna widow of Elisha Case and Mary widow of John Waite.  Other children then ^(1851) deceased were William Clarke who left children Frederick, Joseph, William, Betsey, Ann, Mary and Caroline; Joseph Clarke who left one child Thomas; Elisha Clarke who left ^3 children Harriot and William ^Clarke, and Hannah, wife of Joseph Gardiner, both deceased, who left children Abby, Betsey and Mariah ^Gardiner.
Stop
Thomas Clark was allowed pension on an application executed February 16, 1819, at which time he was sixty-seven years of age and a resident of Leyden, Franklin county, Massachusetts.
He stated that he enlisted at Westerly, Rhode Island, in the spring of 1775, in Captain Samuel Ward's company, Colonel James M. Varnum's regiment Rhode Island troops, and continued to serve under Captain Elijah Lewis, who succeeded Captain Ward, in Colonel Varnum's regiment, which was designated the 9th Continental Infantry, and the 1st Rhode Island Line, until
Page 22

-3-
Miss E. Alice T. Miller.
Soldier married at Hopkinton, Rhode Island, December 14, 1780, Fanny Brown, daughter of Joshua and Abigail Brown, at the house of said Abigail Brown, then a widow.
Soldier died at Leyden, Massachusetts, January 14, 1830, and his widow was allowed pension 
(File 22797) on an application executed February 12, 1839, at which time she was seventy-seven years of age and a resident of Leyden, aforesaid.
It is stated that their oldest child was named Fanny.
In 1820 soldier mentioned his "daughter Alice aged twenty-three years, son Joshua nineteen years, Charles sixteen years and Clark Warden thirteen years.
The Revolutionary War pension records of this Bureau fail to afford any information concerning Abijah Adams.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.
Page 23

MAUDE A. HORN JUSTICE OF THE PEACE GEORGETOWN EL DORADO CO. CALIF.

Nov. 1, 1934. United States Pension Bureau, Rev. War. Dept. Washington, D.C. Dear Sirs: Will you kindly give me the following information: Rev. War service of Joseph Holliday, probably enlisted from Virginia, but possibly from W. Va., or North Carolina. The only relative I knnow of would be a daughter, Mary, born Chester district, S.C. either Aug. 8, 1793 or 1803. Married Robert Gillenwaters.
Rev. War service father of above, name presumably Thomas or Joseph Holliday, enlisted probably from North Carolina.
Rev. War service of the father of Corporal Thos. Webb (War 1812). Father's name probably Thomas, enlisted from Rhode Island. 
Rev. War service of the father of Rebekah Clark, vorn Vermont Jan. 26, 1785. Her father may have been Capt. Thomas Clark of Rhode Island. Thanking you for the information, Yours very truly, (Mrs.) Maude A. Horn. Received Nov 1934 CD of RI
Page 24

Request for Photostating (To be prepared in duplicate.) 3-2006 Ex. CMD
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF CLERK 2451 Job No. Date Sept. 26, 25
Subject Thomas Clarke, Rev. W 23819 
2 copies of 3 pieces consisting of 3 pages to be (No.) (No.) (No.) forwarded when completed to the Rev & 1812 Sect. Division. Remarks: Please make a negative and a positive copy of each page. Approved: mem (the negative copies have been put away with the commissions so as to be used if [illegible] 
A.E. Wilson Cief Sect. Chief Clerk
Page 25

3-2233  
113
BUREAU OF PENSIONS 
Finance Division 
Sept 22 1925 
Chief Rev Sect Division. 
I have this day received from Col. Wm. E. Horton M.O No 407548 for $45/100, requesting photostat copy [post office address crossed out] as per letter herewith. 
Copies mailed & Finance [illegible] Aul Sept. 29. 25
O. J. Randall 
Chief Finance Div. 
H.C.L.
Page 26

The army officer who has paid for these copies especially requests that they be made the exact size of the originals. AW They were made exact size this least time AW Sept. 29, 25 The 3 positive copies were sent.
Page 27

HEADQUARTERS FIRST CORPS AREA BOSTON 9. MASS. Sept. 18, 1925.
Refer to: Rev. & 1812 Wars Sect. FINANCE DIVISION SEP 22 1925 BUREAU OF PENSIONS
The Commissioner of Pensions, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D.C., Dear Sir:- Referring to your letter of September 15th concerning photograph of the commissions held by Major Thomas Clarke, a soldier in the Revolutionary War (W. 23819), I will be very glad if you will send me positive copies of the three comissions of Major Thomas Clarke. This be very satisfactory. Money Order for 45[cent symbol] enclosed herewith. Please accept my thanks for your kindness in this matter. Yours very truly, William E. Horton, Colonel, Q.M.C. Corps Area Quartermaster. 1 Incl. (M.O.) Pension R Sep 21 1925 U.S. Office
Page 28

Rev.&1812 Wars Section MMHF
September 15, 1925
Colonel William E. Horton Headquarters First Corps Area Quartermaster Corps Boston, 9, Mass. Sir: I have to advise you relative to your request for photographic copies of the Commissions of the Revolutionary War soldier Thomas E. Clarke, W. 23819, that the photostat is the only machine used by this Bureau in making copies of papers and that it is the usual practice to furnish negative copies in response to such requests as your. However, if you will forward to this Bureau forty-five cents by Money Order drawn to the order of the Secretary of the Interior, three positive copies will be made for you of the Commissions of said Thomas Clarke, which are considered to be of equal value with photographs, and it is hoped will serve your purposes. Respectfully, WINFIELD SCOTT Commissioner.
Page 29

HEADQUARTERS FIRST CORPS AREA BOSTON 9, MASS. Sept. 1, 1925. U.S. Commissioner of Pensions, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: - I have you letter of August 22nd containing certification of commissions, etc. in the Revolutionary War of Major Thomas Clarke. My request was to have photographs made of these commissions and not photostats. Please see my letters of July 29th and August 6th. I will appreciate it very much if you will have photographs made of the three commissions of my ancestor Major Thomas Clarke in the Revolutionary War. My plan is to have these commissions framed and a photograph copy looks much better in a frame than a photostat copy. I am willing to pay for the three photographs and they need not be certified to. Hoping that the photographs can be made, and that this letter will not cause you too much trouble, I am, Yours very truly, William E. Horton William E. Horton, Colonel, Q.M.C., Corps Area Quartermaster.
Page 30

These were not the size of originals by about 1 inch on each side. I asked Mr. Proctor before mailing and he said just send them on MMHE

The Army Officer Col. Wm. E. Horton who has paid for these copies especially requests that they be made exact size of originals AW
Page 31

HEADQUARTERS FI BOSTON 9

U.S. Commissioner of Pensions, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D.C. FINANCE DIVISION AUG 10 1925 BUREAU OF PENSIONS

Dear Sir: - Referring to your letter of July 31, 1925, Revolutionary & 1812 Wars Section, I request that you kindly have photographs made of the papers referred to, and enclose money order for the photographs of six pages and the certification. Will you kindly have the photographs of the commissions and of the other pages the exact size of the original.

Yours very truly, William E Horton William E. Horton, Colonel, Q.M.C., Corps Area Quartermaster. 1 Incl. (M.O.) PENSION A AUG 7 1925 U.S. OFFICE
Page 32

AW
Rev. & 1812 Wars Section. July 31, 1925. Colonel William E. Horton, Headquarters First Corps Area,
Quartermasters Corps. Boston, 9, Mass. Sir: In response to your letter of the twenty-ninth instant, I have to advise you, that if you wish photostat copies of papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 23819, of Sarah Clarke, the widow of Thomas Calrke, Rhode Island Troops, the same will be furnished you, under the provisions of the Act of Congress dated August 24, 1912, governing the copying of papers on file in the Interior Department, at the rate of fifteen cents a page, with twenty five cents extra for certification, if that is desired. The number of pages to be copies is six. The proper amount should be forwarded to this Bureau by money order drawn to the order of the Secretary of the Interior. Respectfully, WINFIELD SCOTT
Page 33

CORPS AREA STON 9 MASS. 
July 29, 1925. U.S. Commissioner of Pensions, Pension Bureau, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir: I am the great, great grandson of Major Thomas Clarke who served in the Revolutionary War from the town of North Knigston, R.I. Pension papers were filed by his widow, Mrs. Sarah Case Clarke, and whe was allowed a pension. Her papers were numbered #23819. With the papers submitted by Mrs. Clarke, and on file with the case are the original commissions of Thomas Clarke as Captain of the 1st Co., Train Band, dated June 19, 1775, another commission as Captain, 1st Co., Train Band, dated January 3, 1777, and another commission as Major, 2nd Regiment, King's Co., R.I. dated 1777. Also there were copies of Act of the General Assembly of R.I. of follows: June 1775 - Thomas Clarke elected Captain - to serve until May, 1776. May 1776 - Re-elected Captain for one year.
December 1776 - elected Major until May, 1777. May 1777 - re-elector Major for one year. May 1779 - elected Major for one year. I should like very much to have a photograph made of these papers, exact size. Would it be possible for you to send these papers to the Chief Signal Officer of the Army, Munitions Building, Washington, D.C., with a view to his having same photographed in the Army Photograph laboratory? This would keep the papers continuously under government control. Sarah wid. Theos Clarke W23819 RI 6 pages
Page 34

[begin left page]
3 – 2233     113
BUREAU OF PENSIONS
Finance Division
Aug. 10. 1925.
Chief Rev. Sect 
I have this day received
from Col. William E. Horton
M.O. No. 399947
for $1.15 requesting
photostat copy} as per
letter herewith.
OK +
clfd
Copies mailed
Finance Division notified
Aug. 24 ’25 awf
O. J. RANDALL
Chief Finance Div.
26 C. L.
[begin right page]
3-2006
OFFICE OF CHIEF CLERK
Job No. 2280     Date: Aug. 14 25
Subject Thos. Clarke Rev W 2389
1 copies of 5 pieces consisting of 6 pages to be
forwarded when completed to the Rev. & 1812 Wars section Division
Remarks: Please copy commissions exact size. This 
is especially requested by purchaser
Approved:
N. E. Wilson
Chief Sect.     Chief Clerk.
Page 35

[letterhead]
HEADQUARTERS FIRST CORPS AREA
BOSTON 9. MASS.
If this cannot be done will you kindly give me
a permit which will authorize a photographer (possibly a
photographer from the Signal Corps of the Army) to came to
the Pension Bureau and make photographs of these papers
while they remain in your custody.
Appreciating your favorable action in this
matter, I am
Yours very truly,
William E. Horton
William E. Horton,
Colonel, Quartermaster Corps,
Quartermaster.
Page 36

MRS. WILLIAM F. SPENCER.
AFTON, N. Y.
April 24, 1923
The Bureau of Pensions:
Washington D. C.
[stamp] U. S. PENSION OFFICE D APR 26 1923
Dear Sirs:
Please send me the war record
of Thomas Clark who served in the
Revolutionary war. Born 1743. Died
1813.- Children John, William, Betsy
Place of Death North Kingstown Conn
Also the record of service of
Barnabas Allen, Windham Conn.
but who is said to have enlisted
over the border in Mass. wife
Elizabeth Fuller, children Anna. 
Also service of Joseph Blackmer
Montgomery Co. New York. Whitestown
Very truly yours,
Frances B Spencer
(Mrs. W. F.)
Page 37

Rev Sec CC
[stamp] U. S. PENSION OFFICE O OCT 20 1914
[letterhead]
HEADQUARTERS EASTERN DEPARTMENT,
OFFICE OF DEPARTMENT QUARTERMASTER.
GOVERNORS ISLAND, N. Y.
October 19th 1914.
The Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington D.C.
Dear Sir:
I have the honor to
request that you furnish me
with the full military record
of my great-great grandfather,
Major Thomas Clarke, of North
Kingston, R.I. He was born
Aug. 7th 1743, and died April
20th 1813.
He served in the Revolutionary War
as Major in the 2nd Regt.
of Militia in Kings Co. Rhode
Island.
Page 38

2
After his death his widow, Mrs.
Sarah Case Clarke received a
pension from the U.S. Govt.
of $35.00 per annum
Claim No. 23819
I desire this data to file with
an application for membership
in the Society of the Sons of the
Revolution.
Yours very respectfully
William E. Horton
Lieut. Col. Q. M. Corps, U. S. A.
Page 39

[letterhead] OFFICE OF
State Record Commissioner.
Providence, R.I. 19th., July, 1907 July.,
[emblem of State of Rhode Island]
TJC
Commissioner of Pensions,
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.
[stamp] U. S. PENSION OFFICE H JUL 20 1907
[stamp] W. & N. DIV JUL 23 1907
Dear Sir:
Will you kindly send the pension record of the various
[handwritten above typing] 3399 Fanny
[resume typing] Thomas Clarks, one placed on Pension roll, Mass, 1818 also pension record
granted to Sarah widow of Thomas or any other Thomas of R. I., to Miss E.
Alice T. Miller, care, State Record Commissioner, Providence, R. I.
also the pension record of Abijah Adams, we have two or more Abijahs on
record here and trust the pension records may help in placing the several
men, to determine if the records here belongs to one of several different
persons. Thanking you in advance for your kindness, I remain,
Yours truly,
R. Hammett Tilley Mc
State Record Commissioner.
Page 40

W. 23,819
12 orders & 1 list of names.     Clarke, Thomas, R. I.
Sent to War Dept. Jan 16, 1913
Page 41

[begin left page]
Rev
WIDOW, & c.
File No. 23819
Sarah Clarke
Wid of
Thomas Clarke
Major Rev War
Act: July 4th 1836
Index: -- Vol. A, Page 139
[Arrangement of 1870.]
[begin right page]
1907 Aug 3 Hist to 
Miss Alice T. Miller
1914 Oct. 24. Hist e
to Col. Wm. E. Horton.
ISC per AW
1923 June 18 aws
Hist to Mrs. W. F. Spencer
1925. Aug 24. Copies
mailed to Colo. Wm.
E. Horton aws
1925- Sept. 15 - Col. W. E.
Horton informed
positive copies
would be furnished etc.
MMHF
1925 Sept 29. Copies
Mailed to aw
Col. W. E. Horton
1934 Nov. 16 hist
to [illegible]
Page 42

Sarah Clarke, de’d.
Adm.
9 mos Major     $225.
[illegible] " Capt 120
[underline]
[illegible]  $345
[illegible] former pay at
$135. per annum
Cong 4 March 1831 +
ending 30 Oct 1842, 
payable to George C. Clarke
administrator,
for the benefit of
Esther Cooper,
Thomas Clarke
Anna Case
Sarah Clarke
Benjamin T. Clarke
John Clarke
Betsey Clarke
Mary Waite only
surviving children
A. H. Lawrence
Present
Page 43

The Certificate of the Secretary of State sets forth}
that Clark was appointed Captain
on the 2d Monday of June 1775 until 1st Wednesday
of May 1776. He was then appointed Captain for one
year longer. But in Dec’r. 1776 he was elected Major
until the 2d Wednesday in May 1777, and then
one year from that date to wit; 2d Wednesday
of May 1778 )
Declaration states service in accordance with the
above and in addition two months service in the fall
in Sullivans expedition.
William Reynolds states that Clark was Captain
Major of the Regiment in which he was Ensign
and served as much as he (Reynolds) did.
Benj. Smith (Soldier) states that in the winter
+ spring of 1776-7, Clark was on duty. In May 1777
was elected major. Saw him on duty.
Oliver Spinks (soldier) knew Clark as Captain 
and major. Was Ensign of his company, & knew
him as of the field officers of the Regiment, and always
understood during the war that he was an officer
in 1776 & 1777.
2d Declaration
In the summer of 1778 Clark was absent a large 
portion of the time. Service as Major from July to Sept.
about 2 months, and afterwards on duty at [illegible] in same
County for some time until the Spring of 1779,
and was afterwards frequently out till close of war,
Her character vouched for by the Judge.
Page 44

Thos. Clark. Son.
Always heard his Father & Mother say
that his father served from 1775 to 1780.
Peleg Carr (soldier)
In fall of 1775 served in Company
commanded by Clark and was on duty a great portion
of the time of his Captaincy. Was appointed Major in 1776
and he (witness) was in Spencer’s expedition in 1777 in the fall &
served 1 month. Clark served as much as he did
Witness also saw Clark on duty when he himself
was not on duty. Was in Sullivan's expedition in
1778. Was actually employed & on duty more than the
Colonel & was principal field officer of the Regiment.
Was the only major. Witness served under him till 1779
The character of this witness certified by the Judge.
Plumb Chapman, (Soldier)
Witness was on duty in 1778 and Clark
was Major and did duty as long as he did
Saml Brown (soldier.)
same in August 1778
Isaac Hall (soldier)
Was in company of Clarke in Nov. 1775,
In Oct or Nov 1776 Clark was appointed Major and served
from the time of his appointment till 1779. was a very
active officer. Have seen him on duty when witness
was not. In Augt. & Sept 1778 served more than 
1 month under him
character vouched for
Page 45

Benj. Fry
Clarke was actually engaged all the time
from 1776 to 1779.
S. G. Sherman,
All the old people say Clarke was
on duty all the time from his appointment to
his resignation.
Several orders, letters &c.
See especially an account dated 15th Oct. 1776.
and carried up to 1780.
Claim - 1 year 6 months as Major}
6 “ “ Captain}
Again a claim for 2 years
as Major 18 months of
which sustained by documentary
proof
Page 46

Mr. France,
This paper should be filed with the case of Sarah Clarke and Thomas.
R. Island [illegible] act 36
Nov. 23 1864
B. Upton
R. I. Act/36
Rev.
No. 30.
Page 47

Washington D.C. Dec 8th 1837
James P. Heath Esq
Sir,
I have the honor
to ask an increase of the pension of Sarah
Clarke (widow of Thomas Clarke) of Rhode Island
under the act of 4 July 1836, from S345 to $600
per annum as Major & Lieutenant Colonel.
I am very Respectfully
Your obt. servt
A. H. Lawrence
Page 48

Depo'n of
David Bissell
&
William Reynolds
Page 49

I David Bissell of North Kingston, in the County
of Washington, in the State of Rhode Island aged Seventy
three years, on oath do testify and say, that I was a Soldier of
the Revolution, and served as such at many times and places
during the war of the Revolution, and in the first part of
the summer of 1778 I was on duty in a Company of
Militia belonging to the Tour of Exeter, stationed at a
house, called the Willson house in said North Kingston
in Aquidneset Neck, near the shores of Narragansett
Bay of which Company John Hoxsie was Captain, I was serving
as a substitute for one John Cottrell, a Company or part of a
Company from North Kingston, was likewise stationed there at
the same time commanded by Peter Wright. And Thomas Clarke
then living in said North Kingston, whom I well knew was there
and commanded the Militia stationed there he was Mayor of the
Regiment, to which the Companies belonged and Charles Dyer 
Colonel of the same, and said Thomas Clarke commanded the
men stationed there one month at that time afterwards in the
summer of the same season, I was stationed at the House of
Rowlen Robinson, in Boston Neck in South Kingston, near the
Bay and the said Thomas Clarke was there on duty as a 
Mayor and several other months. The Bay was full of Enemy
cruisers at that time and the enemy were in possession of
Newport and a part of the Militia, we lay kept on duty
on the shores of the Bay, to prevent landings of the Enemy
stationed at different places, and the Field Officers of the
Regiment took turns [illegible] & commanding the Milita and
each Field Officer served one month at a time, but in the fall
of 1777 I left the Country & went on Board a Privateer and never 
saw the said Thomas Clarke on duty any more.
David Bissell
Page 50

Washington ss- In North Kingston
July 20th 1836
Personally appeared before me David Bissell of North Kingston, the Signer to the annexed Deposition, and after being by me duly examined cautioned & sworn, gave the annexed Deposition, which was by me reduced to writing in his presence and by him in my presence.  And I further certify, that the said the said [sic] David Bissell is well known to me, that his character for truth and veracity is good and said Deposition, entitled to full and implicit credit-
Sylvester G Shearman
Justice of the Peace
I William Reynolds of North Kingston, in the County of Washington, on solemn Oath, do testify & say, that I am Eighty three years of Age, during the War of the Revolution, I served much as a Soldier in the Militia, many times and places, and knew Thomas Clarke from North Kingston.  In the year 1775, the said Thomas Clarke was Captain of the First Comany of Milton, in North Kingston, and I was Ensign of the same but am not knowing to any duty done in that year.  In 1776 the said Clarke was chosen Captain of said Comany for another year.  The enemy took possession of Newport in the fall of 1776 & in the winter and spring following I served several times, as a Soldier, under said Clarke, as I belonged to his Company, stationed at various places along the shores of the Bay, but I cannot at this distance of time, state the number or length of the tours of duty.  In 1777, he was chosen Major of the Regiment, and he commanded the Guards on the
Page 51

shores of the Bay many times, when I was on duty, but am unable to state how many times, I myself served as a Soldier, at least one half of the time, from the time took possession of Newport and I am confident that said Clarke whilst he was Captain of said Company and Major must have served as much as I did-
his signature [hand drawn X] William Reynolds
Witness
Sylvester G Shearman
Washington ss- In North Kingston
July 20th 1836-  Personally appeared before me, William Reynolds, whose name is annexed to the above Deposition, who after being by me, duly examined, cautioned & sworn, gave the annexed and above written Deposition, which was by me reduced to writing and he being blind the same was read to him by me, and he affixed his mark thereto in my presence and I further certify that the said William Reynolds is well known to me, & that his character for truth and veracity is good & that said Deposition is entitled to full & implicit credit-
Sylvester G Shearman
Justice of the Peace
Page 52

I Benjamin Smith of North Kingston, in the County of Washington, being first duly sworn, according to Law, do testify & say that I am nearly Seventy one years of age, during the Revolutionary War, I knew Thomas Clarke of North Kingston and lived near him, he was Captain of one of the Companies of the Militia in North Kingston in 1776, I had two Brothers then living, who were of age to do duty in the Militia, they are now dead-  After the Enemy took possession of Newport in December 1776, they were called on to ^do duty in the Militia in the Company of which Clarke was Captain-  They were absent from home, the most part of the time, in the following Winter & Spring and told me that they served under Captain Clarke stationed part of the time in Aquidnesett Neck in North Kingston & part of the time in Boston Neck in South Kingston-  In May 1777 he was chosen Major, and I heerd [heard] my Brothers speak of serving under him at Boston Neck & other places.  I saw him on duty at the Guard House, several times in Aquidnesett Neck, when he was Captain-  I am acquainted with Sarah Clarke the Widow of Thomas Clark aforesaid, and have been acquainted with her, ever since her Marriage with him, she is now living in North Kingston, is very aged and infirm and has not married since the death of her Husband, which took place in the Month of April 1813.
Benjamin Smith
Page 53

Washington Sc- In North Kingston August 8th 1836
I Oliver Spink of North Kingston in the County of Washington, being first duly engaged, do testify and say, that I am Eighty One years of Age, I served much in the War of the Revolution & was acquainted with Thomas Clarke, of said North Kingston, now deceased, who was a Captain and Major in the Revolutionary War. In Decemb [December] 1776 I was Ensign of a Company of Militia belonging to the Town of Exeter, the English is that "Mouth," took possession of Newport and I was called on to do duty, and saw the said Clarke, at the place where I was stationed, and understood that he acted as one of the Field Officers of the Regiment. I belonged to another tour and did not serve much at the same place that he did, but I always understood during the War, that he was an Officer 1776 & 1777 and served much in his capacity-  I am acquainted with Sarah Clarke, his widow who is now living, and still remains his Widow.
Oliver Spink
Washington Sc.- In North Kingston
August 8th 1836 -- Personally appeared before me, the subscriber a Justice of the Peace, for the town of North Kingston in said County of Washington, Benjamin Smith & Oliver Spink, whose names are affixed to the annexed Depositions, and after being duly engaged, gave the annexed Depositions, which were, by me, reduced to writing in their presence & by their them subscribed in my presence. And I further certify, that they are both well known to me and their characters for truth are good.
Sylvester G. Shearman
Justice of the Peace
Page 54

15
Sarah Clark
R. Id
widow of Thos Clark Capt & Major
Capt from 2 Monday June 1775 to 23 day Decr. 76-  Major from 23 Decr. 76 to Wednesday of May 1778
admd
3 mo Capt
3 mo Major
135$
Hon. D. S. Pearce
Page 55

State of Rhode Island Sc
Washington Sc
Town Clerks Office of the Town of North Kingston. I the subscriber Town Clerk of the Town of Northkingston and Clerk of the Court of Probate and Town Council of said Town, do hereby certify that Sylvester G. Shearman before whom the annexed declaration of Sarah Clarke, was made and sworn to, and before whom the depositions thereto annexed were made and sworn to, is a Justice of the Peace for said Town of North Kingston legally chosen by the General Assembly of this State and duly commissioned by the Governor thereof, by a commission bearing date the ninth day of May 1836 and legally engaged thereto, and that the signatures affixed to the declaration & depositions purporting to be his signatures, are his true and proper signatures in his own hand writing.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my hand and seal of Office this 8th day of August 1836, at said Northkingston.
Nich. N. Spink J. Clk
Page 56

Mrs. Clarke
Deposition's
Samuel T. Race & Geo. Congdon
Page 57

I hereby certify that Thomas Clarke of North Kingstown son of Elisha, and Sarah Case of sd Northkingstown daughter of Joseph was lawfully married in sd North Kingstown on the 20 day of December Annog Dominous 1770. By me the subscriber
Soloman Sprague, Elder
Recorded July 20th, 1771
p  Geo Northup, J. Clk.
State of Rhode Island
County of Washington Sc
Office of Town Clerk and Court of Probate of the Town of Northkingstown
I Nisholas N. Spink Town and Probate Clerk of the Town of Northkingstown do certify the above marriage certificate to be a true copy of Record in said office
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this twenty fourth day of August in the year 1836
Nich N. Spink Town & Probate Clerk
August 24th 1836
Personally appeared before me, the Subscriber, a Justice of the Peace, of said North Kingston, Nicholas N Spink, the Town Clerk & Probate Clerk of said North Kingston & made solemn oath, to the truth of the certificate by him signed as above.
Sylvester G. Shearman
Justice of the Peace
Wm Gilpin Just. Peace
Page 58

I Sylvester G Shearman of North Kingston, in the County of Washington, on solemn oath do testify and say, that since the passage of the Pension Act of 1832, I have been employed by many to obtain Pensions, under said Act and in consequence there have conversed with all the old people in my Neighborhood, who served in the War of the Revolution, or who could give any information respecting the events of the same-  In conversing with the applicants, hearing Declarations, taking Depositions &c I have often heard the services of Major Thomas Clarke spoken of, indeed I have heard his services further of whilst he was Major in 1777, by all who claim to have served in the Regiment of which he was Major, many of those whom I have heard speak of him are now dead, and many from extreme old Age, have lost their recollection-  Many I have heard say, that the Field Officers of the Regiment, had to gone at different posts all the time, the Enemy held possession of Newport whilst I have heard some others say that the Field Officers, some alternately as the private Soldiers-  From all the information, which I have been able to obtain, I have no doubt in my mind, that the said Thomas Clarke, whilst he was Major, taking into consideration, his residence, which was in Aquidnesset Neck within a few rods of ^the shore, and the length of distance on the shores of the Bay, which the Regiment had to know, extending from East Greenwich in Kent County to Point Judith, or his time of more than thirty miles, and the frequent alarms which all state to have nearly every week taken place, in consequence of the enemys landing or doing spells on those must have ^been actually engaged in his duty as Major the whole time he held said appointment and such is the general opinion with nearly all the old people, whom I have heard speak on the subject-
Sylvester G Shearman
Newport Sc  Newport Sept 1, 1836
Then personally appeared before me Sylvester G. Shearman and made oath to he truth of the above statement by him subscribed.  I also certify that the deponent is a creditable person
Wm Gilpin  Just. Peace
Page 59

I George Congdon of North Kingston in the County of Washington, on solemn oath do testify and say, that I am Seventy six years of Age, during the Revolutionary War, I served much as a Soldier both in the Continental Line, in the in the States Troops & in the Militia. In the year 1777, I served in the Militia most of the time, standing guard on the shore, and Thomas Clarke of North Kingston Major of the Regiment to which I belonged-  And in the Month of October 1777, the time of the expedition of General Spencer, to the Island of Rhode Island, I was called on to serve in said expedition-  We centered near the Village of Wickford, and marched from thence to Warwick Neck where we remained two or three days and were then transported across Narragansett Bay to Barrington, from whence we marched to Slades Ferry in Swansy, Massachusetts, where we remained several days, and were then transported across the Jersy and marched to Dartmouth, in Massachusetts and to Trenton Rhode Island where we remained untill we were discharged-  I served as before stated in the whole one Month and the said Thomas Clarke likewise served as Major of the Regiment, and Month, in the same manner that I served.
The object of the expedition was to dislodge the Enemy from the Island of Rhode Island, but no landing was made-  I likewise saw the said Thomas Clarke, on duty a Number of times before and afterward, as Major, when I was stationed on the owing to the distance of time, cannot state any farther particulars-  I always served as a Private-
George Congdon
Page 60

Washington Sc-  In North Kingston
August 30th 1836
Personally appeared before me, the Subscriber, a Justice of the Peace, followed North Kingston, George Congdon the signer of the annexed Deposition, who after being by me duly examined, cautioned, & sworn, made oath to the truth of the same, which was by me written in his presence and by him subscribed in my presence.  And I further testify that the said George Congdon is well known to me and that his character for truth is good-
Sylvester G Shearman
Justice of the Peace
Page 61

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations Newport sc.
I Samuel Place of the town & County of Newport on oath do testify and ay that I am in my seventy sixth year I was well acquainted with Major Thomas Clarke of North Kingston then in the County of Kings now Washington County that I was born and brought up in the neighbourhood with him I knew him on duty at Narrigansett [Narragansett] and never knew him off of duty till I parted with him at ^Portsmouth [Tiverton crossed out] during the time that the English had possession of Rhode Island
I also knew Major Clarke when on duty in Col. Dyres Regiment and Stationed at Tiverton, I was drafted together with my Father who was taken sick of the Camp distemper and died, the year I do not recollect but I well recollect it was the same year of the August storm which did so much injury to the French fleet and blowed down and destroyed the tents & marque's of the troops-  the militia had no tents to shelter them nothing but rails & hay to cover us from the storm-
I served at this place one month and my time being out, I returned home on account of the death of my Father-  Major Clarke was with us when we first started I do not distinctly recollect where Col. Dyre joined us, our Regiment crossed from Warwick neck to Warren and from thence to Portsmouth and we lay under Butts Hill at the time of the storm, our Commissarys Store was at Slate hill.  I recollect Major Clarke well as he was a severe man in his discipline-  and shall recollect him as long as I live.  In consequence of the injury done us by the storm we were obliged to retreat to Tiverton-  I well recollect when we were taking the boats out of the Gut Major Clarke was with us, a shot came and stove one of the boats then the Major compelled us to back them over a distance of near two miles-  Soon after, we recovered from the damage done us, and made preparation to return from Tiverton to the Island of Rhode Island, we did return
Page 62

and took our station at Butts hill at and near Quaker hill where the enemy frequently fired on us and killed one of our Company by the name of Carr and wounded one or two others, I left there the night before the severe action which took place between Butt's hill and Quaker hill and I left Major Clarke on duty there.  I also recollect that when the Syren went on shore and was captured that I was called out and assisted in conveying the prisoners to Providence, Major Clarke commanded at that time, I do not recollect the time when the Syren went on shore but it was in the early part of the war.  I well recollect that I was offered great wages to stay and would willingly have staid [stayed] but was under the necessity of returning home on account of the death of my Father and my Brother ^also was in the army with General Greene.
Sworn to and subscribed this thirtieth day of August A. D. eighteen hundred and thirty six-
his signature [hand drawn X] Samuel Place
before me
Daniel C. Denham
Justice of the Peace
Page 63

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
{Clerks Office Court of Common Pleas
{Newport September 6. 1836.
I George C Shaw Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in the County aforesaid being a Court of Records, do hereby certify that Daniel C Denham before whom the deposition of Samuel Place was sworn to, is a Justice of the Peace in this town duly elected by the Genl. Assembly and commissioned by the Governor and that his signature is genuine.  And also that William Gilpin before whom Sylvester G Shermans deposition was sworn to, is a Justice of the peace in said town of Newport duly elected and commissioned and that his signature is genuine.  And I further certify that it is known to me The Sylvester G Shearman (before whom the depositions of George Congdon and Certificate of Nicholas G Spink was sworn to), is a Justice of the Peace in the town of Northkingstown, and that his signature annexed is genuine  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court on the day and year aforesaid
Geo. C Shaw.  Clerk
Page 64

James L. Edwards Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
Page 65

Newport August 11th 1836
James L Edward Esqr
Sir.
Herewith you will receive all the documentary evidence I have been able to obtain and several depositions of highly respectable men in this vicinity for the purpose of establishing my Mother's claim to a pension.  The length of time that has elapsed since the services were rendered the extent of coast to guard and the various duties he had to perform renders it extremely difficult at this period to prove the exact time he served as his duty frequently called him to different stations on the shores of Narragansett bay.  But believe that the documents- viz Commissions letters & orders from the Govr.- Genl. Col. & Council of War.  Together with the depositions, are sufficient to establish beyond a doubt that my Hon'd. Father was actually and actively employed nearly all the time from .75 to .79 and as a reward for his active and indefatigable exertions, in guarding the coast against the assaults of the enemy and the deep and heartfelt interest he had ever manifested in the cause of
Page 66

American liberty, he was duly appointed and Commissioned by the Governor & Commander in Chief Jany 3d 1777 and was duly engaged the 6th of the same month which was Four months previous to the annual Election, which together with the documents are most respectfully submited for your consideration by
Your Obt & Hon. Servt,
Thos Clarke
Page 67

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantation
Newport Sc. -- Newport August 10: 1836. I Benjamin Fry, of Newport, in the County of Newport, in the State aforesaid, being duly cautioned and sworn, according to law, do testify and say, that I am in the seventy ninth year of my age, that I was a Captain in the State's service at the time that the British arrived and took possession of Rhode Island, in the year One thousand seven hundred and seventy six, at that time the shore of the Narragansett Bay on the West side of the Island, and then at the North and East side of the Island, were principally guarded by the States Troops and the Militia of the State of Rhode Island, from the time of the arrival of the British, until they evacuated Rhode Island, in the year One thousand seven hundred and seventy nine, in December, and that I knew Col. Dyer, commanding a regiment on the shore of Narragansett Bay, and that his Major's name was Clark, I do not perfectly recollect his christian name, but believe it was Thomas, the shores that were guarded by the States Troops, extended from Point Judith point, to Seaconet [Sakonnet?] point, a distance of One hundred miles, then shores were mostly guarded by drafted, and volunteer militia, the companies ordered on duty for one month, at the expiration of which times they were relieved by other companies, procured in the same manner, the Field officers of each of those regiments were frequently distributed and commanded at different posts, and were not relieved at the time the company was but continued in command, and commanded the troops which relieved the others, and of course was on duty all the times, I was not, all the time the British remained to occupy Rhode Island in this [struck through] state [/struck through], being part of the time myself in the continental army, but from what I have seen myself, and listened from others of good authority, I believe, and am well satisfied that Major Thomas Clark continued to do duty, being active, and actually employed the whole time the British remained at Rhode Island, which was three years.
[signatures] Benjamin Fry
Witness Wm R Noyes
A Thurston [/signatures]
Newport Sc. Newport August 10: 1836. On this day, personally came Benjamin Fry, subscriber to the above instrument, before me, Abraham Thurston a Justice of the Peace for the Town of Newport, duly elected, commissioned, and sworn, and on oath disclosed that the above statement by him subscribed, is correct and true in all its parts. In testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand and seal, at Newport, this tenth day of August in the year One thousand eight hundred and thirty six.
[signature] A Thurston Ju. Peace [/signature]
Page 68

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Sc
Clerks Office Court of Common Pleas.
I the subscriber Clerk of the Court of Common Please in and for the County of Newport & State aforesaid, do hereby certify Abraham Thurston before whom the within deposition of Col. Benjamin Fry was sworn to, is a Justice of this State and duly commissioned by the Governor Thereof, by a commission bearing date May 9, 1836 and legally engaged thereto, and that the signature affixed to the within deposition, is his true and proper signature, in his own hand writing
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my hand and seal of Office this tenth day of August AD 1836
Geo. C Shaw, Clerk
Deposition of Col. Benjamin Fry
Page 69

BY HIS EXCELLENCY,
John Brown Francis
Governor, Captain-General and Commander in Chief of the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations.
BE IT KNOWN, that the name "HENRY BOWEN" to the aforewritten attestation subscribed, is the proper hand writing of Henry Bowen, Esquire, who, at the time of subscribing the same, was Secretary of the State aforesaid, duly elected and qualified according to law:  Wherefore unto his said attestation, full faith and credit are to be rendered.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of said State to be affixed at Providence, this twenty third day of August in the year or our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-six and of Independence the sixty-first.
John Brown Francis
BY HIS EXCELLENCY'S COMMAND
Henry Bowen  Secry
Page 70

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations. Secretary's office August 23. AD 1836.
I Certify that at the session of the General Assembly of the then Colony of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations, holden on the second Monday of June seventeen hundred seventy five Thomas Clarke was elected Captain of the first Company of Militia in the town of North Kingstown for and until the first Wednesday of May then next.  That on the first Wednesday of May seventeen hundred seventy six he was reelected to said office for one year.
That at the session of the General Assembly of said State holden on the twenty third day of December seventeen hundred seventy six Thomas Clarke was elected Major of the Second Regiment of Militia in Kings County for and until the first Wednesday of May there next:  That on said first Wednesday of May seventeen hundred seventy seven, he was reelected to said office for one year- at the end of which time he was superceded.  As appears of record in this office.
Witness  Henry Bowen  Secry
Page 71

Certificate of Elder Wm Northup
of North Kingston
Page 72

Northkingston August 4th 1836
Being soliseted [solicited] to mention something Reffing [Refering] the Charactor of Thomas Clark I had many years acquaintance with him he bore an Excelent [Excellent] Character as a Christian and honest upright steddy [steady] man Sarah Clark his widow The only wife as ^I believe he ever had is now Living though much infirmed
from me
William Northup  Eld
Page 73

James L. Edwards Esqr
Comr of Pensions
Washington
D. C.
Page 74

Newport Sep 5th, 1836
James L Edwards Esq
Sir.
Since the receipt of your esteemed favour addressed to Mr. Thomas Clarke, I have obtained an attested copy of the marriage record and several depositions in support of Mrs. Sarah Clarke's claim.  It appears by Mrs. C's declaration and the company orders that Capt. Clarke commenced his services as early as 1775 on the Island of Canonicut [Conanicut].  Oliver Spink testifies & says he was Ensign in a Company from Exeter in Decr. 1776 and that Clarke was a field officer on duty and "understood that he served much in 75"  Wm Reynolds, Ensign of the company comd by Clarke says that he served half the time and that Clarke served as much as he did.  Geo. Congdon was with him in Gen. Spensers expedition Two months David Bissell served 2 Months under Major Clarke, and appears to think that the officers "Took turns" and conveys the idea that
Page 75

That Major C. served half the time.  Samuel Place a soldier in the company formerly commanded by Clarke testifies to his services at Narragansset and says "And never knew him off of duty until I parted with him at Portsmouth during the time the English had possession of R. I."  he also served under Clarke in the Syren case was one of the guards that took the prisoners to Providence, and further states that he left Major Clarke on duty on this Island the night before the battle which took place Aug. 29th. 1778 three months after his commission expired 
In this case he was no doubt a volunteer  Benjamin Smith testifies to his services in 76 & 77 see him on duty- heared his Brother's say they had served under Major Clarke "Most part of the time in the following winter & spring.  Capt. Benj Fry testifies "From what I have seen my self & learned from others of good authority, I believe and am well satisfied that Major Clarke continued to do duty being active & actually
Page 76

employed the whole time the British remained at R Island"-  In addition to this testimony I forward you the deposition of S. G. Sherman Esq who has had a better opportunity of obtaining knowledge of services rendered about the waters of Narragansett Bay than any other man in the County of Washington.  he testifies and says it is his opinion & the opinion of nearly all the old people he had conversed with that Major Thos. Clarke was actually engaged the whole time he held the appointment
Also forward you the certificate of 
Hon. D. J Pearson which we hope will be satisfactory
Respectfully your Obt Servt
Wm R Noyes
Agent for S. Clarke
Page 77

James L. Edwards Esqr
Comr of Pensions
Washington
D. C.
Certificate of Hon. D. J. Pears.
Page 78

Newport September 6th 1836
I am well acquainted with Oliver Spink, Benja Smith, David Bissell, Wm Reynolds, George Congdon, Benjamin Fry, and Sylvester G. Shearman, witnesses who have testified in the application of Sarah Clarke widow of Major Thos Clarke for a Pension and have no hesitation in saying that they are all respectable men, and credible witnesses
Dutie J. Pearce
Page 79

Newport, Sepr. 17th 1836
Sir.
It is very important to establish 2 Years in Mrs Clarke's claim as Capt. & Majr. & to enable you to assist me in that point, I give you a mnt. of the evidence.
Mrs Clarke, Declares service in 75 and in supd by company orders to that effect.
Oliver Spink served in the Regt. with him in 76.  Clarke was a field officer- says he served much in 76 & 77  
Wm Reynold served half the time & Clark served as much  
Geo. Congdon was with him in Spencers expedition.  
David Bissell served 2 months under Major Clarke
The officers took turns of course & served half the time  
Samuel Place served in Sulivans expedition with C. and left him the night before the action 29th of July 1778 left Clarke on duty- "did not know him off of duty until he parted with him at Portsmouth
Benjamin Smith testifies to services, see him on duty and know he served most part of the time in the Winter and Spring 76 & 77-
B. Fry says he was actually & actively employed all the time the enemy held this Island.
S. G. Sherman Esqr. says ^it is his opinion & the opinion of all the old people he conversed with that C. was actually engaged
Page 80

all the time the English had possession of this Island [this crossed out]  he has had great opportunity of gaining information on that point.
After Mre Edwards has carefully examined the evidence, I think he will find no difficulty in making out more than 2 years actual service
NOTE:  FOLLOWING IS MARKED OVER WITH X
In the case of Mrs Mary Freeborn, Widow of Henry Freeborn which Mr Edwards has Disallowed on acct. of all his services as he declared having taken place previous to his marriage.  There is several Soldiers now living that was told by the Judge or Justice before whom he made her declaration-  That it was no use to declare any more than was necessary to entitle them to a pention [pension]-  And all they served in the Militia would not help their case and at all"-  Our friend Judge Corey of this County is the man that I am indebted ^to for the above cotation [quotation].  In this case I can furnish evidence to prove considerable duty ^performed long after they were married.  There is also the case of Barnard Allen, who declared before Judge Corey-  he only recd his declaration as to continental service or in other
Page 81

J. L. Edwards, Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D. C
March
Sept. 23
4 July 1836
Page 82

Washington September 22d. 1836
Sir, from the discretionary power which I think I have, in the case of Mrs Clarke, widow of Thos Clarke, and applicant for a pension, I feel myself warranted in saying that on her behalf, I will accept of the proposition, made in your note of to day to allow her, in the right of husband to say, three months as Capt. and nine months ad Major, say 135 per annum, if upon a full revision of the case, according to the synopsis which you will herewith revue and which I received from the P. office since I was at the Pension office, this morning, you should be of opinion but six months service, part as Capt and part as Major, was actually incurred-  If upon a review you would be of opinion, that more than six months
Page 83

service as aforesaid ^was actually rendered from all the evidence in the case, which it may be however for you to consider as applicable to it  [the case marked out], I submit to you no additional sum which ought to be accorded to Mrs C.
I remain with respect your very obedt. servt-
Dutie J. Pearce
J. L. Edwards, Esqr}
Commr. of Pensions}
Page 84

Newport Jany 11 1837
Sir
Absence predicted for some time to receipt and answer of yours of the 14th ultimo, relative to the claim of Mrs Sarah Clarke, widow of the late Major Thos. Clarke decd. 
In yours of the above date you state that Mrs Clarke's claim was adjusted upon a liberal estimate of the probable service, and if she is dissatisfied she should return the certificate and make a detailed & continuous statement in the chronological order of the tours, of the period, length, grade, names of Officers, where stationed with the distance from home, probable number of the corps embodied, and how quartered paid & subsisted"-
In reply, relative to the liberality of the allowance in this case, permit me to call your attention to your letter bearing date Augt 17 1836- in which you admit [state crossed out] that the militia of R. Island was divided into three classes, who served by rotation ( both officers & men) during the presence of the enemy, from Dec 1776 to Augt 1779- unless therefore it shall by proper specifications of the period & length of each tour, be distinctly established that the husband of the Claimant served in any year more than the four months required by that classification no allowance for a greater term of time can be made"-  Also in yours of Sept 22d 1836 you state- that "the documentary and parol evidence abundantly prove that he was an active officer & it may be inferred from the fact as to the particular source
Page 85

scattered through the depositions that he rendered
as much service as the Militia law imposed upon
him”. Then admitting the Militia of R. Island served
no more than 1/3 of the time from ‘75 to ‘78 I would 
respectfully ask if an allowance of ¼ can be reasonably
called a liberal adjustment of the claim, as set
forth in the first declaration & the proof thereunto
annexed, and would also here observe that nearly
all the affiants state distinctly that he (said Clarke) 
served much in ‘75 & ‘76 when Capt. and from ‘76 to
’78 while major & that he was “the principal field
Officer" of the Reg't. Col P. Fry (then Capt. Fry) states his
reasons for believing that said Clarke was "actively
& actually employed the whole time the British remained 
at R. Island.” First from ‘76 to ‘79 fully establishing
the first declaration. Then as respects the
return of the certificate I could not recommend it by
any means, although it is not of what we had reason
to expect yet 1/3 of a loaf is much better than no bread. 
As respects the pay the Militia were turned off with
depreciated paper money of but little value, in
fact they never were paid. The Militia at
that time received their subsistence from the State
when the Commissary was able to procure and forward
it to them. In many cases they were called out and
required by the warrant to furnish “cooked provisions” 
for their days march. At this late period, the
Officers dead, & documentary evidence destroyed
Page 86

it is utterly impossible to comply with the requisition of the Department in every particular, as to date, distance, where quartered, how paid, subsisted &c
I would now call your attention to my letter under date of Oct 9th for the new and further evidence in support of the 2d Declaration of Mrs Clarke and would add, that her 2d continuous Declaration was made after mature deliberation and a close examination of circumstances-  Where she was during the absence of her husband, that her children, ^4 in number, were sick, that her father took her and family to his house where she remained several months
That he husband was on duty from July to Sept in '78 in Sullivan's Expedition, and that he was on duty "a large part of the time until the Spring of 1779" and I believe the proof annexed to sd 2d Declaration fully establishes the fact that said Clarke served much more than the classification before mentioned would have required of him-
I would therefore with ^due deference to your responsibility actual & careful examination of the proof annexed to both Declarations & Supplement.  Trusting you will find this worthy matron justly entitled to a further allowance.-
I have the honor to be
Your Obt Sevt
Wm R. Noyes
J. L. Edwards Esq}
Washington}
Page 87

State of Rhode Island &c
Washington } sc
On this 25th day of August 1837 personally
appeared before Benjamin Lawton a Judge
of the Court of Common Pleas in and
for the County of Washington & State aforesaid ^Sarah Clarke aged 83 years who being duly engaged according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by act of Congress passed July 4th 1836-  (viz) I am the widow of Thomas Clarke late of this Town deceased who was an officer in the
War of the Revolution. That on the 6th day
of August 1835 I made a declaration before Sylvester G. Shearman Esqr. stating the service of my late husband up to May 1778 as near as I could recollect and was going to state still further service but was stoped [stopped] by said Shearman-  I would now further declare
that in the Spring 1778 my husband said Clarke was solicited to take the command of the 2d Regiment. But on account of his health which was very much impaired by his service his infant family & the dilapidated situation of his farm he declined, but continued to do duty as Major-  In the summer of 1778 he was absent & on duty a large proportion of the time. In July he started to make arrangement to go to the
Page 88

Island of Rhode Island and distinctly
remember that he said Clarke was on
duty as Major from July to September
in the year 1778 in said Regiment in
General Sullivans expedition to said Island
I know this to be the fact as my children
then four in number were sick at the
time and will remember the anxious
hours I passed for the safety of them &
their father - In this tour of duty he was
absent about Two months, and after he
returned he was on duty in said 
capacity at Wickford. Boston neck and
elsewhere so much that my Father took
me and my young children to his
house about 5 miles in the Country
where I remained several months.
My husband sd. Clarke was also
on duty a large part of the time from
at that at until the spring of 1779
and afterwards was frequently out
on alarms until the close of the
war.
Sarah Clarke her X Mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the
day & year above written, before me
Benjamin Lawton Judge C. C. Pleas
State of Rhode Island &c
Washington } Sc
North Kingston August 25th 1837 Then
personally appeared Sarah Clarke
Page 89

who signed the foregoing declaration
and made solemn oath to the truth 
of its contents. I further certify that
she is infirm and unable to attend
in open court to make this her declaration
and that I am intimately 
acquainted with said Sarah Clarke
and that her character for truth
is good and justly entitled to full
faith & credit
Benjamin Lawton Judge C. C. Pleas
Page 90

Deposition
I Sylvester G. Shearman of North Kingston, in the County of
Washington, on Solemn Oath do testify & say, that on the Sixth day of 
August in the year 1836, attended as a Magistrate, to the taking of
the Declaration of Mrs. Sarah Clarke of North Kingston, 
Widow of Thomas Clarke deceased, in order to obtain a pension under the
Act of Congress of July 4th 1836. After stating the service of her husband
as Captain in 1775 & 1776, & his service as Mayor in 1777 up to Major
she was proceeding to state his services on Rhode Island in Sullivans Expedition
and other places after May 1778, when I informed her, that she must
be mistaken as the records of the State, which I had seen, showed that
another person was elected Major in his stead in May 1778 and that
she must therefore be mistaken. She seemed much confused at this
and persisted in her statement of his serving in 1778 & 1779 but as I was quite sure 
that she must be mistaken, and thought it my duty as a Magistrates to
inform her, she declined in consequence of my advice of having any statements
made in the declaration, relative to his service after May 1778.  But she
insisted that he did serve much after that.
Slyvester G. Shearman
Washington Ss North Kingston -
August 25th 1837-
Personally appeared before me, the Subscriber, a Justice of the Peace for
said North Kingston, Sylvester G. Shearman, and made Oath
to the truth of the above deposition, to which his name is subscribed and I
further certify, that the said Sylvester G.  Shearman is well known to me 
and that his character for truth is good
F. Chappell Justice
Page 91

I Peleg Card of North Kingston R. I.
on Solemn Oath do testify & say
that I am a Revolutionary pensioner – 
In the fall of the year 1775-
I served in a company Commanded 
by Thomas Clarke for one 
month we commenced in October
and were dismissed in November
I know said Clark was on duty
all the time for sd month. I also
recollect he said Clarke was on
duty a large proportion of the
time that he was Captain then 
appointed Major in
1776 and did duty in said capacity
until some time in 1779 he
was in Spencers expedition in
the fall of 1777 I served one month
and said Clarke served as much
as I did. I also see him on
duty several times when I was
not on duty myself but cannot
state the length of his tours of duty.
Sd. Clarke was also on duty in
the summer of (August I believe)
Sullivans Expedition to R. I. in the
year 1778 I was knowing to his
being very actively employed in
the war & was much more on the 
duty than the Colonel was – in fact he was
the principal field officer of this
Regiment and was the only major
I served under until after the
Page 92

year 1779. The afore named service
was performed in the 2d Regiment
of Militia commanded by Colonel
Charles Dyer.
Peleg Card
State of Rhode Island &
Washington Sc. Town of North 
Kingston August 25th 1837 Then personally appeared
Peleg Card & signed the above deposition
and made Solemn Oath in due form
of law to its truth. I further certify that
said Peleg Card’s character is good
for truth & veracity & entitled to full
faith & credit
Benjamin Lawton Judge C. C. Pleas
Page 93

The Deposition of Ebenezer Smith of South
Kingstown Rhode Island in the eightyeth [80th]
year of his age who being duly sworn
according to law, on oath deposes & says
that he was on the Island of Rhode Island
in the month of July or August of the year
1778 and on duty in what is called Sullivan's 
expedition, that he saw Thomas
Clarke then of North Kingstown then &
there on duty in the American service
as Major of the 2d Regiment of Militia
Commanded by Col. Charles Dyer, the
militia were all called out at this time
I believe for one month, but the Troops
from this County (Kings) on the west
side of the Bay-served more some one
& some two months, and in some instances 
they were taken from the regiment
and placed on guard. In the fall
of 1778 in the month of October or November
I saw said Clarke on duty at Boston
Neck in said capacity &c. A part of
the 2d Regiment was then out for One
mouth & Station at different points
on the shore. In the spring of 1779
said Clarke was on duty and stationed 
a part of the time at Amos Gardiner
in this Town & part at Aquitnesset Neck
in fact the shore was lined with guards
from point Judith to Warwick Neck
and were much employed during the time
the enemy had possession of Newport. 
Major Clarke was a very active officer
and a strict disciplinarian.
Ebenezer Smith his X mark
Witness
John P. Whitford Just. Pce.
Page 94

State of Rhode Island &c
Washington - Sc
South Kingstown September 12th 1837
Then the afore named Ebenezer Smith
made oath before the subscriber to the
truth of the foregoing deposition by him
in due form of law & signed the same
in my presence. I further certify that
said Smith's character for truth and
veracity is good & his statement entitled
to full faith & credit
John P. Whitford Just Peace
Page 95

I Plumb Chapman of Westerly, County of Washington
State of Rhode Island, a Revolutionary Pensioner being
duly engaged according to Law on solemn oath do
testify & say In the month of August 1778 I was on
duty as a private in a company commanded by
John Gavitt in Col. Joseph Noyes Regiment
was marched to Rhode Island, was in the action on
said Island on the 28 & 29th of said month and I
recollect that the Regiment commanded by Col.
Charles Dyer was there and on duty at said time
and that a Thomas Clark was Major of said Regiment 
and did duty in said capacity during the
time I was there on duty said Regiment was
from the same County in which I lived & frequently
see the officers of said Regiment & those belonging
to our Regiment in company with each other
& saw said Clark on duty almost every day
while I was there, and know that he served in
said capacity as long as I did and how
much longer I cannot say, some of the troops
served one month some one & a half & some
two months. I served but one month I think
at this time, and was discharged or relieved.
Plumb Chapman his X mark
State of Rhode Island &c
Washington County Ss August 21. 1837 Personally
came the above named deponent Plumb
Chapman, on oath before me gave and
subscribed the preceding Deposition by me 
reduced to writing.
I further certify that said Plumb Chapman
is well known to me that he is a person
of veracity and that his testimony is
entitled to credit
Benajah Gavitt & Justice of the Peace
Page 96

I Samuel Brown of Westerly County of Washington 
State of Rhode Island a Revolutionary Pensioner being
duly engaged according to law on solemn oath do
certify & say in the month of August 1778 I was on
duty as a volunteer in a company commanded by
John Gavit in Col Joseph Noyes Regiment and
was marched to Rhode Island was in the action
on said Island on the 28 & 29th of said month
and I well recollect that the Regiment commanded
by Col Charles Dyer was there and on duty at said
time & that Thomas Clark was Major of said
Regiment and did duty in said capacity
during the time I was on duty at said time and
place said Regiment was from the same
County in which I lived & frequently see the officers
of said Regiment and those belonging to our
Regiment in Company with each other and
said Clark on duty almost every day while
I was there and know that he served in the
Capacity of Major as long as I did in said Gavit Company and
how much longer can’t say some of the
troops served one month, some one & a half
& some two months. I served two months and
was discharged.
James Brown
State of Rhode Island &c
Washington County Ss} August 22d 1837 Personally
came the above named deponent Samuel Brown
Esq. on oath before me gave and subscribed the
preceding Deposition by me reduced to writing.
I further certify that the said Samuel Brown Esq.
is well known to me, that he is a person of
veracity and that his testimony is entitled
to credit.
Bennajah Gavitt Justice of Peace
Page 97

State of Rhode Island &c
Washington Sc.
I Asa Potter Clerk of the
Court of Common Pleas within and for the
County of Washington, being a Court
of Record, do hereby certify that Benjamin 
Lawton, whose signature is subscribed
to the certificates regarding Sarah 
Clarke, Isaac Hall & Peleg Card, 
is one of the Justices of the aforesaid Court
of Common Pleas duly elected commissioned 
and qualified according to law
fully authorized to act in his said
capacity, & that his signatures above 
mentioned are genuine.
I further certify that Francis Chappell
Whose signature is subscribed to the certificate regarding Sylvester G. Shearman
is a Justice of the Peace in the town 
of North Kingstown in County aforesaid duly elected, 
commissioned & qualified according to law, fully
authorised to act in his said capacity, &
that his signature above mentioned is genuine.
I further certify that John P. Whitford whose
signature is attached to the certificates
regarding Thomas Clarke & Ebenezer Smith
is a Justice of the Peace in the town of South
Kingstown in the County aforesaid, duly
elected, commissioned & qualified according 
to law, fully authorized to act
in his said capacity, & that his signatures
above mentioned are genuine
I further certify that Benajah Gavit
whose signature is attached to the 
certificates regarding Plumb Chapman & Saml
Brown, is a Justice of the Peace in the
town of Westerly in the aforesaid County of
Page 98

Washington, duly elected, commissioned
and qualified according to law, fully 
authorized to act in his said capacity and
that his signatures above mentioned are
genuine.
[seal and ribbon]
In testimony whereof I have
hereunto set my hand and
affixed the Seal of the
said Court on this 13th day of
September A. D. 1837
Asa Potter Clk.
Page 99

I, Isaac Hall of North Kingston R. I.
on solemn oath do testify & say that I
am in the 77 year of my age & was a soldier
in the war of the revolution and did
duly in a Company at first Commanded 
Thomas Clarke. In the month of November 
1775 said Thomas Clarke did duty as
Captain of the 1st Company & 2d Regiment
Commanded by Col. Charles Dyer. We were
stationed at Aquitnesett Neck & quartered at
said Clark's house. I then served as a substitute 
for my Brother Gardner Hall. In the
fall of 1776 in the month of October and November
said Clarke served as Capt. of said Company 
[illegible] months & stationed at the Cory
house in this Town. I am sure that I
am correct as it was but a short time
previous to the appointment of said
Clarke as Major of said Regiment one of the
last two months stated above I served
for my brother & the other for my self. I
was knowing to said Clarks served as Maj.
of said Regiment from the time of his
appointment until the summer of
the 1779. He was a very active officer and
much exposed so much so as to impair 
his health and in the spring
of 1778 said Clark had thoughts of 
declining & one Maxson was appointed but 
as he did not qualify himself or took
some other appointment he did not do
duty. In fact I never served under him
Page 100

or any other Major during the time above
stated to wit until after 1779. Said Clarke
was on duty in Spencer’s expedition at 
Tiverton in the fall of 1777 and I have
seen him said Clarke repeatedly on duty when I was not
on duty myself-- In the summer of 1778
in the month of August September I served more than
one month under said Clark in sd. 
Regiment on the Island of Rhode Island
in Sullivan's expedition. I do not mean
that we served all the term on said Island
but at Wickford, Warwick, Bristol & Rhode 
Island & a short time at Mount Hope
at the Bradford farm, it was nearly
the middle of Sept before we returned
home.
Isaac Hall
Sworn to and subscribed before me
Benjamin Lawton Judge C. C. Pleas
State of Rhode Island &c.
Washington} Ss
North Kingstown August 25th 1837. Then
personally appeared Isaac Hall and
signed the above deposition in my
presence & made solemn oath to the
truth of its contents. I further certify
that said Hall's character for truth
and veracity is good.
Benjamin Lawton Judge C. C. Pleas
Page 101

Letter to Thos. Clarke Esqr
17 Aug. 1836 -
to D. J. Pearce Sept
22 1836
Act 4 July 1835
Page 102

Certificate of
Henry Bowen Esq.
Mrs. Clarke’s
Claim
11
[stamp] PROVIDENCE R. I. OCT 3
Wm R Noyes Esq
Newport
Page 103

State of Rhode Island and
Providence Plantations
Secretary's Office Octr 2. 1837
I certify that at the session of the
General Assembly of said State holden on
the first Wednesday of May seventeen
hundred seventy nine
Charles Dyer was elected Colonel,
Jeffrey Wilcox, Lieutenant Colonel and
Thomas Clarke Major of the Second
Regiment of Militia in the County of
Kings County, for one year. 
That at the session holden on
the second Monday of June in the same
year, the said Jeffrey Wilcox resigned his
said office of Lieutenant Colonel which
resignation was accepted; and that at
said session Jonathan Bates was elected
Major of said Regiment in the [illegible]
of Thomas Clarke, who resigns.
As appears of record
witness Henry Bowen Secy
Page 104

Newport Oct 9th 1837
Sir 
I herewith forward you an amendment, or 2d
declaration and sundry depositions for the purpose
of establishing Mrs. Sarah Clarke’s Claim to a further 
allowance under act of Congress of July 4 1836. 
By said amendment it appears that Mrs. Clarke
first declared before S. G. Sherman Esq. on the 6th day
of Aug’t 1836. That after stating her late husband’s 
services up to May '78 as near as she could recollect, 
that she was going on to state still further
service, but was stopped by said Sherman. She
now further declares that her husband was solicited
to take command of the Reg’t, but on account of
his health which was very much impaired by his
service, infant family and dilapidated situation
of his farm declined, but continued to do duty
as Major, then goes on to state his service in ’78 & ‘79.
In support of that part of Mrs. Clarke’s declaration
relative to her being stopped, and not making a
full declaration at that time, permit me to offer
the deposition of S. G. Sherman Esq. & Mr. Thos. Clarke
both of which give the reason for so doing & fully 
confirm her statement. I would next call your
attention to the deposition of Mr. Samuel Place who
testified in support of this claim in Aug’t ‘36
(this deposition was attached to Mrs. C's first declaration).
Mr. Place testifies to Major Clarke’s service generally
was born & brought up near him, knew him on duty 
at Narragansett, at Tiverton, at Portsmouth & left
him on duty as Major of Dyers Reg't the night 
before the great action on this Island, to wit Aug’t 28th 1778-
Peleg Card testifies to service under Capt. Thos. Clarke
Page 105

one month in Oct & Nov. ‘75 & that he recollected said
Clarke was on duty a large proportion of the time that 
he was Capt. that he was appointed Major in ‘76
and did duty in said capacity until some time
in ‘79 served under him one month in the fall of ‘77
(Spencers expedition) "Also see him on duty several times
when I was not on duty myself”, said Clarke was
on duty in Sullivans Expedition to R. I. ‘d knew no
other Major of sd Reg't. commanded by Charles Dyer
until after ‘79 & that said Clarke was the principal
field officer of said Reg’t.- Ebenezer Smith
testifies to Major Clarkes service one month in ‘78 in
Sullivan’s Expedition as Major of the 2d Reg't (Dyers), to one month
in Oct. & Nov’r 78 at Boston neck & one month in the
spring of ‘79 stationed at Amos Gardner's and
at Aquitnesett [Quidnesett] Neck - Plumb Chapman of
Westerly testifies to the sance of said Clarke as
Major of Dyers Reg’t in Augt ‘78, was in the action
on this Island on the 28th & 29 of said month, that
some of the troops served at this time one month
some 1 ½ mos & some 2 months, that he served
one month & Clark served as long as he did.
Samuel Brown Esq of Westerly testifies to Major Clarke’s 
service as Major of Dyer’s Regt in Augt. ‘78 one month
and to the facts stated by Chapman.
Isaac Hall Esq of N Kingston testifies to the service 
of said Clarke as Capt. one month in Nov ‘75 at
Aquitnesett [Quidnesett] Neck, to 2 mos. in Oct & Nov ‘76 in Spencer’s 
Expedition at Tiverton, and that he said Clarke
served more than one month at Wickford, Bristol
& on R. Island in the summer of ‘78, that this term
of since commenced in Augt, and it was near
Page 106

the middle of Sept when they returned.
And in conclusion I would offer you the
Certificate of Henry Rouen Esq relative to the appointment 
of said Clarke as Major of said 2d Reg't of R. I.
Militia in May ’79. By the evidence now presented
it appears that said Clarke performed two months
duty as Capt. of the 1st Company of 2d Regt. R. I. Militia
and that he held the office of Major 13 mo’s.
in course of which he served much, that was
not proved by the first deposition forwarded to
the department. And that his widow is
now justly entitled to a further allowance
I trust will be plainly manifest.
I have the honor to be
Yr. Obt. Servt.
Wm Reyes
J. L. Edwards Esq. 
Com of Pensions
Washington D. C.
Page 107

State of Rhode Island &c
County of Washington Sc}
North Kingston February 7. 1838
Then personally appeared before me, the undersigned,
Justice of the Peace, in and for the County aforesaid
Sarah Clarke of said Town, County & State aforesaid
Widow of the late Thomas Clarke deceased, who being duly
sworn, deposeth and saith that by reason of old age, and
the consequent loss of memory she cannot swear positively
as to the precise length of her husband's service- but according 
to the best of her recollection he served not less than the
periods hereinafter mention and in the grades following
to wit-- He served as Captain from May 1775, to 3 January 1777
at least six months of the time included within those dates - he
was away from home nearly all his time, and came home
only occasionally for clothes &c-- and after he was appointed
Major-- from the time of his appointment to the time of his
resignation which was 28 months, he was actually employed
and in the service of his Country at least 18 months of the aforesd
28 months and during the time the enemy had possession
of Rhode Island, he slept at home only one night-- for when
he came home to change his clothes, during the warm season
he was in the habit of sleeping in a shelter made by a grape
vine near the house-- at this time the enemy had cleared &
stripped the Houses of all the male inhabitants in the neighbourhood, 
and burned three houses within a mile of this house and
a short time previous the enemy had taken and drove off
a yoke of oxen belonging to my Husband who was at Wickford
and on hearing of the landing of the enemy, he came with a
body of soldiers and drove the enemy off-- He was the most
active officer of the Regiment here, and while he was attending
to the affairs and business of his company & regiment I am positive that
he served the time stated above, and much more – for after he 
was major, he was never able to attend at all to his farming
business, but left the whole of it to be done and seen to by me
and
Page 108

and for such services not heretofore allowed I
respectfully claim, and humbly ask a further allowance.
Sarah Clarke her X mark
Attest
Thos Clarke
F. Chappell
State of Rhode Island &c
Washington Sc
At North Kingston this 7 Feby 1838
Then the above named Sarah Clarke personally appeared 
before me, and in due form of Law, made oath
to the truth of the facts set forth in the Statement and
declaration by her above signed in presence of the
attesting Witnesses - I further certify, that I have
been long acquainted with the affiant- that she
is aged and infirm - and that her character for truth
and veracity is good.
Francis Chappell Jus. Peace
Page 109

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
Washington DC.  Clerks Office . Superior Judicial Couart

I, Powell Helme, Clerk of the Superior Judicial Court for the County of Washington do hereby certify that Francis Chappell Esq. is a Justice of the Peace for the town of South Kingstown in said County of Washington, duly appointed by the General Assembly commissioned by the Governor and otherwise qualified as the Law directs and that his name certifying the taking of the aforegoing Deposition is his genuine hand writing.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Court aforesaid this 8th day of February in the year 1838.

Powell Helme, Clerk
Page 110

Newport March 15 1838
Sir
Yours of the 11th of Jany relative to the claim of 
Mrs. Sarah Clarke is before me, and in reply permit
me to say, that I have not my letter of the 4th Jan
at hand nor can I recollect exactly the comparisons
I drew. But can with much sincerity say that
in calling your attention to what had been admitted
by the department, and the new, further and
important evidence in support of this claim
I did not mean to alledge intentional “inconsistency”
in regard to the allowance in this case, but feeling 
the strongest convictions that it was not as
liberal as many others, and knowing as well as
I could know what I did not witness myself that 
Major Clarke served much longer than the time allowed
for by the department I feel it my duty to call
your attention to your letters on the subject, believing
that if you had not made Mr. C. a generous
allowance for service as stated in the first declaration 
that you would, & also if I furnished
indubitable proof of new & further service that the
allowance would be increased "pro ratio”, or I should
never have forwarded the 2d declaration &c-
In compliance with the requisition of department as respects
Note E, Mrs. Clarke has forwarded me her deposition
in which she states her belief relative to her husbands
service both as Capt. and Major also a warrant found
Page 111

among the papers of the Hon B Smith to call out the company on the 15th of Oct 76, which corresponds with the service testified to by said Smith J Hall Esq & others.  All of which is respectfully submitted for your consideration by your Obedient Servt

Wm R Noyes

J. L. Edwards Esq
Commr of Pensions
Washington D.C.
Page 112

[illegible] from the
Daughter of Sarah Clark
Decd, widow of Thomas
Act 36 R. I. Agency
for increase of Pension
My Calc
Jany 28 1837
Ex by Feb 51
S.A. Peuge
Present
Page 113

Providence, R. I. 22. Jany. 1857.

To the Commission of Pensions, Washington City

Sir:

My late Mother, Mrs. Sarah Clark, was a Revolutionary Pensioner, as the Widow of Thomas Clark, Captain and Major, under the Act of 4. July 1836, at $135- per year, and died 30. Oct. 1842.

Believing that she was entitled to allowance for a longer service than was admitted, I have to request that you will cause an examination of the Rolls and allow such Increase as she may be entitled to under any of the Laws, Regulations, or Decisions now in force; and cause the Certificate to be made payable to George C. Clark, who will administer for the benefit of myself and the other children of said Sarah Clark, and the Certificate of his Administration will be sent as soon as it can be obtained according to the regulations in force in the adjoining  county where the said Pensioner died.

Very Respectfully, 
Betsey Clarke
one of the children of Sarah Clarke deceased the above named Pensioner
Page 114

I Thomas Clarke of South Kingstown
County of Washington & State of Rhode Island of
lawful age engaged according to law on
solemn oath do testify & say. I was present
at the time my mother Mrs. Sarah Clark widow
of Major Thomas Clarke late of North Kingstown
deceased made her declaration before Sylvester
G. Sherman Esq. and distinctly recollect that
my mother the said Sarah declared that her
husband said Thomas was on duty as Major
on the Island of Rhode Island in Dyers Regiment 
in the summer of 1778 in Sullivan's
Expedition and that she was relating circumstances 
that made her have a perfect recollection of it
when said Sherman stoped her observing
that she was going beyond the tenor of her
husbands commission & that it would be of no
use for to her, or advantage to her claim. In
reply my mother the said Sarah observed that
she had no knowledge of any other major doing
duty in the Regiment to which he belonged
until after the British left the Island of
Rhode Island and that she was sure her
husband the said Thomas was on duty until
after the British left said Island. I would also
state that I have always understood from my
Father said Thomas that he was on duty in said
expedition & that he served from the year 1775
until the summer of 1780, and as I believed
we should be able to prove sufficient services
under the commission to entitle his widow to ┃
a full pension. I did not insist on said
Sherman's adding to the declaration & therefore 
it was not added
Thos. Clarke
Page 115

State of Rhode Island &c
Washington } Ss.
Town of South Kingstown August 18th 1837
Then personall appeared Thomas
Clarke and made solemn oath to
the truth of the within deposition
by him subscribed in my presence. 
I further certify that said deponants
Character is good
John P. Whitford Just Peace
Page 116

Kingston R. I. Dec 15. 1851
P. E. Keach Esq
Dear Sir
In March last an
arrearage of Pension of $2447 was granted Sarah
Clark Decd widdow of Thomas Clark Decd of North Kingstown
and Recd by me Geo. C. Clark as administrator for the
benefit, as your direction to Paris Hill Pension
agent say of the living children of the deceased.
The question is now raised whether the grand children
are not intitled to a share.
Pleas give me your views and whether
there has been any decisions by any Courts in
the Union to your knowledge upon the subject.
an early answer is solisited as I am anxious
to pay over the ballance to the lawfull claimants.
Yours very Respectfully
George C. Clark
Page 117

R. I. [seal]
Sarah Clarke
on roll
Mar 2 1840
R. I. 
Sarah Clarke
[postmark] WASHINGTON D. C.
FEB 20
J. L. Tillingham
Hon. J. L. Tillingham H. R.
Jas. L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Pension Office
Washington D. C.
Page 118

Washington, Hs. of Reps. Feb. 29
1840-
Sir,
Having examined the papers & testimony filed 
in the application of Mrs. Sarah Clarke of North
Kingstown R. I. Widow of Major Thomas Clark, decd
I feel constrained to anger, for your favorable consideration
& decision, her claim to an addition to her pension. 
Major Clark was Captain in 1775 & 1776 - twenty months
Major from Jany. 1777 to June 1779 twenty eight months, & 
thenceforward to the end of the war was out doing duty on alarms
as occasion required, for which service the amount [illegible]
is her $135 per year. Several officer of inferior grade
who served under him appear to have been allowed a
larger sum for less or no more service. In her first
declaration it appears by the Deposition of the Magistrate 
Mr. Sherman & others that Mrs. Clarke did not
think herself at liberty to state all the services of her 
husband, his [illegible] by the magistrate to these services
under his first major’s Commission to 1778. Her sworn
declaration & the evidence accompanying it show the
reason, & make manifest the facts. I shall be obliged if 
you will look into the papers & if you find any difficulty
as to allowing for the whole service do me the favor
Page 119

to state the point of difficulty.
Respectfully your obt. servt.
Joseph L. Tillinghast
Jas. L. Edwards, Esq
Comm. of Pensions}
Page 120

Phebe Gladding widow
of Nathl. Gladding Capt.
[illegible] of artillery R. I. state
troops
R. I.
suspd
Act 4 July 1836
Let. to Hon. J. L. Tillinghast,
March 6, 1840
Page 121

[seal]
By the Honorable the GENERAL ASSEMBLY of the English Colony
of Rhode-Island, and Providence Plantations, in New England, in America
To Thomas Clarke Gent. GREETING.
YOU Thomas Clarke being, by the General Assembly aforesaid, elected and chosen
to the Place and Office of Captain of the First Company or Train'd Band of the Town of
North Kingstown in the County of Kings County in the Colony aforesaid, are hereby, in the name of
His Majesty GEORGE the Third by the Grace of God, King of Great Britain, and so forth, authorized, 
empowered and commissioned, to exercise the Office of Captain of and over the Company
aforesaid; and to command, guide and conduct the same, or any part thereof. And in case of an Invasion or Assault of
common Enemy, to infest or disturb this His Majesty's Plantation, you are to alarm and gather together the Company under
your Command, or such part thereof as you shall deem sufficient, and therewith, to the utmost of your Skill and Ability, you
are to resist, expel, kill, and destroy them, in order to preserve the interest of His Majesty and His good Subjects in these Parts.
You are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and Orders, as shall, from Time to Time, be further given forth, either by
the General Assembly, the Governor and General Council, or other your superior Officers. And for your so doing, this Commission shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge.
By virtue of an Act of the said GENERAL ASSEMBLY, I Henry Ward Esqr. Secretary of said Colony,
have hereunto Set my Hand, and the Public Seal of the said Colony, this Nineteenth Day of June
A. D. 1775, and in the Fifteenth Year of his said Majesty's Reign.
Henry Ward
Page 122

0517
[seal]
By the Honorable the GENERAL ASSEMBLY of the English Colony
of Rhode-Island, and Providence Plantations, in New England, in America.
To Thomas Clarke Gent. GREETING.
You Thomas Clarke being by the General Assembly aforesaid, elected and chosen
to the Place and Office of Captain of the First Company or Train'd Band of the Town of
North Kingstown in the County of Kings County in the Colony aforesaid, are hereby, in the name of
His Majesty GEORGE the Third by the Grace of God, King of Great-Britain, and so forth,
authorized, empowered and commissioned, to exercise the Office of Captain of and over the Company
aforesaid; and to command, guide and conduct the same, or any part thereof. And in case of an Invasion or Assault of a
common Enemy, to infest or disturb this His Majesty's Plantation, you are to alarm and gather together the Company under
your Command, or such part thereof as you shall deem sufficient, and therewith, to the utmost of your Skill and Ability, you
are to resist, expel, kill, and destroy them, in order to preserve the Interest of His Majesty and His good Subjects in these Parts.
You are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and Orders, as shall, from Time to Time, be further given forth, either by
the General Assembly, the Governor and General Council, or other your superior Officers. And for your so doing, this Commission shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge.
By virtue of an Act of the said GENERAL ASSEMBLY, I, Henry Ward Esq. Secretary of the said Colony,
have hereunto set my hand, and the Public Seal of said Colony this Nineteenth day of June
A.D. 1775, and in the Fifteenth Year of his said Majesty's Reign.
Henry Ward
Page 123

0518
[seal]
By the Honorable Nicholas Cooke Esquire Governor, Captain General and
Commander in Chief of and over the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
To Thomas Clarke Esquire. Greeting
You the said Thomas Clarke being by the General Assembly of this State elected and chosen to the
place and office of Major of the Second Regiment of Militia in the County of Kings County in the State aforesaid, are
hereby in the Name of the Governor and Company of the said State, authorized, empowered, and commissioned, to have
take and exercise the Office of Major of and over the Regiment aforesaid, and to command guide and conduct the same or
any part thereof: And in case of an Invasion or Assault of a common Enemy to infest or disturb this Plantation, you are to
alarm and gather together the Regiment under your command or any part thereof that you shall deem sufficient, and 
therewith to the utmost of your skill and ability you are to resist expel kill and destroy the same, in order to preserve
the Interest of the good people in these parts. You are are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and orders, as shall
from Time to Time be further given forth, either by the General Assembly, the Governor and General Council, or other your Superior Officers. And for your so doing this commission shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge.
Given under my hand and Seal of the said State, the Third day of January, in the year of our
Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy-seven
Nichs Cooke
By his Honor's Command
Henry Ward Secry
Page 124

0519
[seal]
By the Honorable Nicholas Cooke Esquire Governor, Captain General and
Commander in Chief of and over the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
To Thomas Clarke Esquire. Greeting
You the said Thomas Clarke being by the General Assembly of this State elected and chosen to the
place and office of Major of the Second Regiment of Militia in the County of Kings County in the State aforesaid, are
hereby in the Name of the Governor and Company of the said State, authorized, empowered, and commissioned, to have
take and exercise the Office of Major of and over the Regiment aforesaid, and to command guide and conduct the same or
any part thereof: And in case of an Invasion or Assault of a common Enemy to infest or disturb this Plantation, you are to
alarm and gather together the Regiment under your command or any part thereof that you shall deem sufficient, and 
therewith to the utmost of your skill and ability you are to resist expel kill and destroy the same, in order to preserve
the Interest of the good people in these parts. You are are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and orders, as shall
from Time to Time be further given forth, either by the General Assembly, the Governor and General Council, or other your Superior Officers. And for your so doing this commission shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge.
Given under my hand and Seal of the said State, the Third day of January, in the year of our
Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy-seven
Nichs Cooke
By his Honor's Command
Henry Ward Secry
Page 125

0520
[seal]
By the Honorable Nicholas Cooke Esquire,
Governor, Captain-General, and Commander in Chief, of
and over the Englis Colony of Rhode-Island, and Providence
Plantations in New England, in America.
To Thomas Clarke – Gent. GREETING.
You Thomas Clarke being, by the General Assembly of this Colony,
elected and chosen to the Place and Office of Captain of the First
Company or Trained Band of the Town of North Kingstown in the County of
King County in the Colony aforesaid, are hereby, in the Name of
the GOVERNOR and COMPANY of the said Colony, authorized, empowered, and commissioned, to exercise
the Office of Captain of and over the Company aforesaid; and to command, 
guide and conduct the same, or any part thereof: And in case of an Invasion or Assault of a Common
Enemy to infest or disturb this Plantation, you are to alarm and gather together the Company under
your Command, or such part thereof as you shall deem sufficient, and therewith, to the utmost of your
skill and Ability, you are to resist, expel, kill, and destroy the same, in order to preserve the Interest of
the good People in these Parts. You are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and Orders, as shall
from Time to Time, be further given forth, either by the General Assembly, the Governor and General
Council, or other your superior Officers. And for your so doing, this Commission shall be your sufficient
Warrant and Discharge.
GIVEN under my Hand, and seal of the said Colony, the Sixth Day of
May in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seven six
Nichs Cooke
By His HONOR'S Command,
Henry Ward Surry
Page 126

0521
[seal]
By the Honorable Nicholas Cooke Esquire,
Governor, Captain-General, and Commander in Chief, of
and over the Englis Colony of Rhode-Island, and Providence
Plantations in New England, in America.
To Thomas Clarke – Gent. GREETING.
You Thomas Clarke being, by the General Assembly of this Colony,
elected and chosen to the Place and Office of Captain of the First
Company or Trained Band of the Town of North Kingstown in the County of
King County in the Colony aforesaid, are hereby, in the Name of
the GOVERNOR and COMPANY of the said Colony, authorized, empowered, and commissioned, to exercise
the Office of Captain of and over the Company aforesaid; and to command, 
guide and conduct the same, or any part thereof: And in case of an Invasion or Assault of a Common
Enemy to infest or disturb this Plantation, you are to alarm and gather together the Company under
your Command, or such part thereof as you shall deem sufficient, and therewith, to the utmost of your
skill and Ability, you are to resist, expel, kill, and destroy the same, in order to preserve the Interest of
the good People in these Parts. You are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and Orders, as shall
from Time to Time, be further given forth, either by the General Assembly, the Governor and General
Council, or other your superior Officers. And for your so doing, this Commission shall be your sufficient
Warrant and Discharge.
GIVEN under my Hand, and seal of the said Colony, the Sixth Day of
May in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seven six
Nichs Cooke
By His HONOR'S Command,
Henry Ward Surry
Page 127

[seal]
By the Honorable the GENERAL ASSEMBLY of the English Colony 
of Rhode-Island, and Providence Plantations, in New England, in America.
To Thomas Clarke Gent. GREETING.
You Thomas Clarke being by the General Assembly aforesaid, elected and chosen
to the Place and Office of Captain of the First Company or Train'd Band of the Town of
North Kingstown in the County of Kings County in the Colony aforesaid, are hereby, in the name of
His Majesty GEORGE the Third by the Grace of God, King of Great-Britain, and so forth, 
authorized, empowered and commissioned, to exercise the Office of Captain of and over the Company
aforesaid; and to command, guide and conduct the same, or any part thereof. And in case of an Invasion or Assault of a
common Enemy, to infest or disturb this His Majesty's Plantation, you are to alarm and gather together the Company under
your Command, or such part thereof as you shall deem sufficient, and therewith, to the utmost of your Skill and Ability, you
are to resist, expel, kill, and destroy them, in order to preserve the Interest of His Majesty and His good Subjects in these Parts.
You are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and Orders, as shall, from Time to Time, be further given forth, either by
the General Assembly, the Governor and General Council, or other your superior Officers. And for your so doing, this Commission shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge.
By virtue of an Act of the said GENERAL ASSEMBLY, I, Henry Ward Esq. Secretary of the said Colony,
have hereunto set my hand, and the Public Seal of said Colony this Nineteenth day of June
A.D. 1775, and in the Fifteenth Year of his said Majesty's Reign.
Henry Ward
Page 128

Thomas Clarke
Capt. 1t Co.
No. Kingstown
Kings County Ss At North Kingstown on the 4th day of October
A.D. 1775. then personally appeared the within Named Thomas
Clarke & was engaged unto this Commission according to
Law
Before
Geo. Thomas Justice Peace
Thomas Clarke
Wid. 3 23819
R. I.
Page 129

[seal]
By the Honorable Nicholas Cooke Esquire Governor, Captain-General, and
Commander in Chief of and over the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
To Thomas Clarke, Esquire. Greeting.
You the said Thomas Clarke, being by the General Assembly of this State elected and chosen to the
place and office of Major of the Second Regiment of Militia in the County of Kings County in the State aforesaid, are
hereby, in the name of the Governor and Company of the said State, authorized, empowered and commissioned, to have
take and exercise the office of Major of and over the Regiment aforesaid; and to command guide and conduct the same or
any part thereof: And in case of an Invasion or Assault of a common Enemy to infest or disturb this Plantation, you are to
[illegible] together the regiment under your command or any part thereof [illegible] shall deem sufficient, and
therewith to the utmost of your skill and ability you are to resist expel kill and destroy the same, in order to preserve
the Interest of the good people in these parts. You are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and orders, as shall
from time to time be further given forth, either by the General Assembly, the Governor and General Council, or other your
Superior Officers. And for your so doing this Commission shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge.
Given under my Hand, and Seal of the said State, the Third day of January, in the year of our -
Lord One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy-seven
Nichs Cooke
By his Honor's Command.
Henry Ward Terry
Page 130

Thomas Clarke Esq.
Major
Of the Second Regiment Militia
Kings County
Kings County Ss
North Kings town February the 6th 1777
Then personally appeared the within
Named Thomas Clark & was engaged to
this Commission according to a law of this State
provided
[illegible] Geo. Thomas Just. Peace
Thomas Clarke
Wid F 23819
R. I.
Page 131

By the Honorable, Nicholas Cooke, Esquire, Governor, Captain-General, and Commanger in Chief, of and over the English Colony of Rode-Island, and Providence Plantations, in New-England, in America.

To Thomas Clarke, Gent. Greeting.

You, Thomas Clarke, being, by the General Assembly of this Colony, elected and chosen to the Place and Office of Captain of the First Company or Trained Band of the Town of North Kingstown in the County aforesaid, are hereby, in the Name of the Governor and Company of the said Colony, authorzied, empowers, and commissioned, to exercise the Office of Captain of and over the Company aforesaid; and to command, guide and conduct the fame, or same, or any Part thereof: And in case of Invasion or Assault of Common Enemy to infest or disturb this Plantation, you are to alarm and gather together the Company under your Command, or such Part thereof as you shall deem sufficient, and therewith, to the utmost of your Skill and Ability, you are to resist, exped, kill, and destroy the same, in order to preserve the Interest of the good People of these Parts. You are also to follow such Instructions, Directions and Orders, as shall from Time to Time, be further given forth, either by the General Assembly, the Governor and General Councei, or other your superior Officers. And for your so doing, this Commission shall be your sufficient Warrant and Discharge.

Give under my Hand, and Seal of the said Colony, the Sixth Day of May in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven Hundren and Seventy-Six.

By His Honor's Command,
Henry Ward [illegible]

Nicholas Cooke [signature]