Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W 8675, William Drake, Va.
Page 1

(B--1776)
SERVICE
VA
Drake, William
Anna
Number
W 8675
Contents
Page 2

19.757
Virginia
William Drake
of Franklin County in the State of Virginia who was a private in the Company commanded by Captain Perkins of the regiment commanded by colonel Harris - in the Virginia line, for the term of 3 years from April 1777 to May 1780
Inscribed on the Roll of Virginia at the rate of 8 Dollars per month, to commence on the 28th day of March 1827-
Certificate of Pension issued the 3 of April 1827 and to R.N. Dickenson, esq.
Franklin C.H. Va
Arrears to 4th of Semi-annual allowance ending 4 Sep 1827.
$42.09
--------
$42.09

(side note) 
4. 31's -1.3
4. 30's-1.6
5mo's-40-
------------
$42.09

{Revolutionary Claim, Acts March, 18, 1818, and May 1, 1820.}

(Note on second page)
This pensioner is supposed be dead see letter filed within
(illegible signature)
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9242, Kentucky
Anna Drake dec
widow of William
Va
who was a private
in the Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80 Dollars - Centers per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843. Ending 15 Aug 1847.
Certificate of Pension issued the 9th day of July 1852 and sent to E.S. Brown, Elizabeth Brown, Ky.
[Acts of March 3, 1843, & June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book a
Vol. 2
Page 179
(Side Note on Second Page)
Hamilton Pope 21st Sept 1853.
Anna Drake Dec 21 1853
(illegible, might be Same) Feb 7 1836
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Pension Claim
Act July 7th 1838.
Declaration
William Drake
Heirs. 
E.S Brown Attorney
Elizabeth Brown
Ky.
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August Term 1837.
State of Kentucky
Hardin County Set:
Be it known that on this the 18th day of August A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty and personally appeared in open court, at the August term of the County Court for the County of Hardin and the State of Kentucky, Abram Drake aged fifty years past, of the County and State aforesaid, who being first duly sworn according to law, makes the following declaration for the purpose of attaining the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of July A.D 1838 and all other acts granting pensions to the widow or heirs of the soldier, and Pensions of the Revolution. This William Drake (illegible) law of Franklin County, state of Virginia, died in the said County and state on the 6th day of January A.D. 1829. Thus he was the identical William Drake who was a soldier of the Revolution, and drew a Pension at the rate of 96 dollars per annum. Thus at the time he drew said pension he lived in the said County of Franklin and State of Virginia and drew his Pension at the city of Richmond Virginia. This he left a widow whose name was Anna Drake, who after her husbands death, moved from the said County of Franklin and State of Virginia, to Hardin County in the State of Kentucky, where on the 18th day of August A.D. 1847, she died, but
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Never married again, remaining a widow from the time of the death of her husband to the said 15th of August 1847. That her maiden name was Anna Chappel, and that she was married to the said William Drake in the County of Chesterfield in the State of Virginia on the day of June AD 1783, by Parson Blackgrove, a minister of the Protestant Religion. That the said Anna Drake never applied for, and never received any pension as the widow of said William Drake deceased. That she left five children, who are the only legitimate children, and the only lawful heirs of the said Anna and William Drake, and that their names are as follows, (illegible, perhaps tarrih?): James Drake, aged sixty years, Anna Minter, aged 58 years, William Drake, aged 54 years and Abram Drake aged fifty years, all of the County of Hardin State of Kentucky, and that they are all of (illegible, perhaps lawful) age. 
That he the said Abram Drake who makes this Declaration is the identical Abram Drake above mentioned, being and of the five children, and am of the legal heirs above mentioned. That he has been employed and fully authorized by his said brother and sister above names, to make this declaration for the purposes of (illegible) whatever amount of Pension, may be due them as the children and him, of said Anna and William Drake deceased;
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which authority was exhibited to said (illegible) signed sealed and delivered, and was satisfactory.
That the original certificate under which the said William Drake drew his said Pension, was surrendered to the Pension agent at the city of Richmond in the State of Virginia, a short time after the death of said William Drake. 
That he has after heard his father, the said William Drake deceased speak of his services, and he stated that his principal service in the Revolution War under Generals Morgan and Green, and that he was at the battle of (illegible perhaps Camden?) Guilford and Hanging Rock.
(signature of) Abram Drake
(illegible) to and subscribed in the presence of the court the day and year above written (illegible perhaps tarrif?) August 18th AD 1837.
(signed) Attish H. J. Dunavan Clerk
State of Kentucky
Hardin County (illegible, perhaps Sas?):
I, Hugh J. Dunavan Clerk of the County Court for the County aforsaid, do hereby certify that the forgoing three pages of written paper, this included, contain the original proceedings in the application of Abram [William written originally then crossed off and replaced with Abram, later referenced in the note below] Drake, for himself and the surviving heirs of William and Anna Drake deceased, for a Pension under act of July 7th 1838, That the sum was exhibited, subscribed and (illegible, perhaps seen?) to in the presence of said couty at the regular August Term (1837) of said court, and that the sum was ordered to be certified. In testimony whereof, I have presented my hand and affixed the seal of said country court at my (illegible) in Elizabethtown this 20th day of August A.D 1837. The names "William" erased above and "Abram" inserted before signed. Hugh J. Dunavan Clerk County Court
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(Service) Virginia
Drake, William Anna
(Number) W 8675
(Contents
Page 9

Thomas Drake was born November the (illegible number) 1789
Anna Drake was born August the 27 day 1792
William Drake was born June the 27 day 1794
Cad Drake was born February the 15th day 1796
Ande Drake was born April 11 day 1798
Abraham Drake was born February 12 day 1799
Thomas Drake was born September 14 day 1802
Nancy Drake was born March 17 Day 1807.
Martin Drake was born September the 9 Day 1812
William H Drake was born the 26 of September 1808
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This (illegible) was made January 22 day 1823 of Thomas Drake
(additional signature, illegible)
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(Top line to damaged to read, Drake is all that is legible)
Susa Ann Drake was born April the 2 Day 1828.
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August Term 1851.
August 18th 1851.
"Satisfactory proof was this day exhibited in open Court that William Drake, late of Franklin County Virginia and in said county of Franklin and State of Virginia on this the 6th day of January A.D 1829. The he was the identical William Drake who was a soldier of the Revolution, and drew a Pension at the rate of ninety six dollars per annum. That of the time he drew said Pension he lived in said County of Franklin and State of Virginia, and drew his pension at the city of Richmond in the State of Virginia. 
That he left a widow, who never married again, but continued a widow to the day of her death; whose name was Nancy, alias Anna Drake, who after her said husbands death (illegible, possibly moved) from the said County of Franklin and State of Virginia to Hardin County in the State of Kentucky, where on the 13th day of August A.D. 1847, she died. That she never applied for and never received a Pension as the widow of said William Drake deceased. 
That she left five children, who are the only legitimate children and the only lawful heirs of the said Anna and William Drake; and that their names are as follows; (illegible, possibly tarrish or tamis?): James Drake, aged sixty years, Anna Minter, aged 58 years, William Drake aged fifty six years, Cad Drake aged 54 years, and Abram Drake aged fifty years; as of the County of Hardin and State of Kentucky, and all the lawful age."

State of Kentucky, Hardin County SS
I, Hugh J. Dunavan Clerk of
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the County Court for the County aforesaid do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy from the Order Bank of said Court. In Testimony, whereof, I have hereunto sis (?) my hand affixed the seal of said County Court as my office as (illegible, perhaps Elizabethan?) this 20th day of August A.D. 1851.
Hugh J. Dunavan Clerk
Hardin County Court
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Virginia Franklin County S.S.
On this 8th day of March 1827, the following declaration and schedule of William Drake an applicant for a pension from the government of the United States as a revolutionary soldier was exhibited into Court, being a Court of record, constituted such by the laws of this state; which declaration and schedule follows in these words and figures (illegible)
State of Virginia

Franklin County S.S.
On this 31st day of October 1826 personally appears before the subscriber a justice of the Court of said County, William Drake resided in said County, aged (illegible, possible seventy) years who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the pensions made by the acts of Congress on the 18th of March 1818 and the 1st of May 1820, that he the said William Drake enlisted in the town of  Fincastle in the County of Botetourt, Virginia on the 6th day of April 177 for the term of three years, in a company commanded by Captain Perkins in the 7th Regiment commanded by Colonel Samual Haws in the line of the State of Virginia on the Virginia Continental establishments, that he continued to serve in said Corps until the (illegible) the of May 1780 that during said term he acted in the capacity of Sargeant and was discharged from the service on that State of South Carolina at Camden, that he hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension (illegible) the present, that his name is not on the roll of any State except the State of Virginia, and that the following are the reasons for not making earlier application for a pensions. First, the declarant was ignorant of those provisions being granted; secondly ignorant of the course to pursue in order to establish his claim. Thirdly, the difficulty other met with in establishing
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their pensions; and fourthly he has resolved never to call upon his County for application until compelled to by failure of his bodily strength and a total inability to support himself and family. And in pursuance of the Act of the 1st of May 1820. I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March 1818 and that I have not since that time by gift sale or other wise disposed of any property or any part thereof with intent thereby so to diminish it as bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress, entitled an act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary army (illegible) on the 18th day of March 1818, and thus I have not, nor has any person in (illegible) for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts due to me nor have I any income other that what is contained in the schedule hereto accepted and by me subscribed.
Schedule of Property. 
Twenty acres of land on Stanton river, one horse, three head of sheep, three cows and calves and seven head of hags (?). And that no change has taken place in the applicants property since the 18th day of March 1818. The declarant is a farmer by profession, but is by old age and a disease called the gravel rendered incapable of pursuing in so as to support himself and family without the aid of his country. He has no family accept his wife who is sixty years old and quite infirm. And I do further swear that I am not able to attend personally in Court in consequence of old age and a disease called gravel. 
William Drake
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I, Sparrel Hale a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Franklin and State of Virginia where the declarant resides, do hereby certify that the above named William Drake is from a disease called the gravel and from other bodily diseases with which I am credibly informed and believe he is afflicted is unable to attend the court of which I am a justice, and I do not think from present appearances that he will be able to attend the court above named of its weak (illegible): I have therefore in pursuance of the act of Congress of the 1st of March 1823 attended at his place of abode, and administered the foregoing oath, and it is further my opinion that the total amount of property in value exhibited in the foregoing schedule is one hundred and nineteen dollars and fifty cents. 
Given under my hand this 31st day of October 1826.
Spl Hale J.P.

Virginia, Franklin County (illegible, possibly abbreviation for Township?)
I, Robert N Dickenson, Deputy Clerk of the County Court of Franklin in the State aforesaid do hereby certify that Sparrel Hale before whom the above affidavit of William Drake, who from age and infirmity is unable to attend the said court, was made, is and was at the time of his signing the (illegible) a justice of the peace in and for the County, I also certify that the said schedule and oath have been applied to the record of the said Court, and that the same are truly copied therefrom: and I do further certify that it is the opinion of the same Court that the total amount in value of the property
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established in the aforesaid schedule is one hundred and nineteen dollars and fifty cents.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court of office, this 22nd day of March 1827 in the 37th year of the Common (illegible, possible Wealth).
Ro. N. Dickenson, (illegible abbreviation, possibly Dfpl)

[Small opened envelope affixed to the piece of paper on the left hand side]
Page 18

Admittee
BSB (Initials)

[Written upside down]
20.282
Pension Office
William Drake
Franklin Co.
VA

R.N. Dickenson (signature)
Franklin Cty. VA
2. Minnie (signature)

[looks like a copy of a receipt]
Page 19

Admittee
BSB (Initials)

[Written upside down]
20.282
Pension Office
William Drake
Franklin Co.
VA

R.N. Dickenson (signature)
Franklin Cty. VA
2. Minie (?, signature)

[looks like a copy of a receipt, same as page 18 but flipped the other direction]
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Louisville, August 4 1853.

Dear Sir:

William Drake was a Revolutionary soldier, who died on the 6th January 1829 in Franklin County, Virginia, leaving a widow named Anna, or Amy, and seven children.
Five of the children made a contract with Elisha Brown who is collecting the pension money due. When the father or mother, and he received this portion(?), and made a statement with them as I learned.
Brown is now dead and access to his papers. And with, I learn, he had- Prior to his death he declared, as I am informed, with he did such receive the portion due Thomas Drake, one of the heirs of said William and Anna, as he was dead at the time, and had no personal (illegible, possibly representative).
Three of Thomas's children, who are poor, and who are without information, and reside in the County, desire me to write you this. 
Will you (illegible) this by informing me weather
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whether any money was ever paid Brown, or any one on account of any pension grants to Wm or Anna Drake.
If it was paid it must have been paid since the 8th of August 1837, as the contract (illegible) the five children relative to the employment of the agent, since that date. 
Thomas's children, for whom I write are under age, and have no guardians and they think they have not been fairly treated. 
May I ask, under the (illegible), will you give them any information in your power. 

I am, 
(very us,? illegible)
The Commr (commissioner) of Pensions
(illegible, possibly yr. oth. swt)
Hamilton Pope
Washington, (illegible, possibly ag)
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(typed) From the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 8675, it appears that William Drake enlisted in Fincastle, Botetourt County, Virginia, April 6, 1777 and served three years as a Sergeant in Captain Perkins' Company, Colonel Samuel Hawes' Virginia Regiment. 
He was allowed pension on his application executed October 31, 1826, while a resident of Franklin County, Virginia, aged seventy years, and he died there January 6, 1829. 
Soldier married in June 1783 in Chesterfield County, Virginia, Anna or Nancy Chappel. She died August 15, 1847 in Hardin County, Kentucky. 
Their children were-
*James  born November 12, 1789.
Ann or Anna " August 27, 1792, married ---Winter.
William "June 27, 1794.
Cad " February 15, 1796.
Ande " April 11, 1798.
Abraham or Abram " January 12, 1799.
Thomas " September 14, 1802.
Nancy " March 17, 1807, died when she was sixteen years old.
Martain " September 9, 1812.
In 1851, James, Anna Winter, William, Cad and Abram, only surviving children, were living in Hardin County, Kentucky.
Very truly yours, Commissioner.
(handwritten at bottom) OK'd by Miss Wilson Mrs. Rich's letter returned
(handwritten on side) *I gave data from family record left out Wm H. Death  neither did I say 3 died of [illegible] as letter is not clear as to [illegible] and later [illegible] were not stated.
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Feb. 21 – Hist to Senator Elkin
for Nus. Mrs. J. R. Rich – av
Revy WIDOW, &c.
File No. 8675
Anna Drake
Wid. of William Drake Pvt. Rev. War
Act: Mch, 30/43, & June 17/44
Index:—Vol. A, Page 195
[Arrangement of 1870.]
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No.  14.570
Anna Drake
Dec'd widow of Wm Drake Ky
Act 7th July 1838
E.S. Brown Jan. 26. 62
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11.351.
Kentucky
Anna Drake decd. widow of William who died on the [blank] of ~ in the State of Ky who was a priv in the [blank] commanded by Captain [blank] of the [blank] commanded by [blank] in the Revy line for 2 yrs
Inscribed on the Roll of Ky at the rate of 80 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 9 day of July 1852 and Sent to E. S. Brown Elizabethtown Ky
Arrears to the 4th of [blank]
Semi-annual allowance ending [blank]
Revolutionary Claim, Act July 7, 1838.
Recorded by H. E. Robinson Clerk. Book D Vol. 1 Page 365
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Pension Office June 8 1848
Virginia Rolls Richmond Agency
William Drake, A pensioner under Act of Mch 18, 1818 & May 1 1820, at the rates of $8. per month, to what time was he paid?
Died 6th January 1829
Pd. to his death BSB. 3 Auditor I.T
Page 27

Sun, 1 July 1938
80cent per [illegible]
4 July 1826 [illegible]
[illegible]
15th May 1884 [illegible]
two years
Payable to
James Drake
Anna Minter
William Drake
Cad Drake and
Abram Drake
only surviving children

Send to
E.S. Brown
[illegible]
[illegible]
Page 28

James E. Heath
Com. of Pensions
Washington D.C.
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Elizabethtown Ky
August 20th 1851.
Col. James E. Heath
Come. of Pensions
Dear Sir
I herewith send you the claim of the Heirs
of William and Anna Drake
deceased, to a Pension under act
of 7th July 1838.
When the certificate is issued
you will please forward the same
to me at this place
Very Respectfully
[signature] E.S. Brown
Page 30

Elizabethtown Ky
June 27, 1852
Hon: Ben: Edwards Grey,
My Dear Sir,
Some three or four weeks since I wrote to you on the subject of a claim I am prosecuting before the Commission of Pensions for the heirs of William and Anna Drake dec'd.
The claim amounts to about Sixteen hundred dollars, and although the proof has been completed for some time past, yet the delay of the Department has been mush (sic) extraordinary.
The history of this case is as follows: William Drake dec'd was a Pensioner of the Revolution and drew $ 9 [illegible] per annum. At this time he was on the Pension Roll he resided in Franklin County Va. He died in said county in 1829, and his widow Anna Drake died in this county in the year 1847. You will oblige me very much if
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you will call upon the Commissioner of Pensions and enquire into the condition of the claim. Why it has not been acted upon and allowed long ago I can not tell. 
I rec'd a letter from the com'r of Pensions in February last, requiring certain proof, which has long since been furnished, and I know, in the ordinary course of business, after allowing the usual time to elapse, that the claim aught to have been acted upon before this time. 
Friend Grey, you must excuse me for thus troubling you, for I assure you that I believe Jim Stone is too lazy to attend to it. 
Hoping to hear from you soon, 
I Remain, Very Truly Your Friend, E.S. Brown
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Brief in the case of Anna Drake dec'd widow of William
County and State of Kentucky
act July 7, 1838 [illegible]
Claim, ("original", crossed out-or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance. 
Husband was a Pensioner, Act 18 March 1878
Widow of Marriage. Documentary
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what? 
Name and residence of Agent
E.S. Brown Elizabethtown Kentucky
signed Thornton Triplett examining clerk
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State of Virginia Bedford County. Sct
John Tomison, aged 84, being duly sworn, on the holy evangelist of almighty God, doth say, that William Drake enlisted, at Fincastle, in the County of botetourt and state of virginia, in the month of April, 1777, for the term of three years, and was attached to Capt. Perkins's company, seventh regiment, commanded by Col. Saml. Haws, of the virginia line, on continental establishment, and further says, that said Drake served faithfully, in said company and regiment, until the expiration of his aforesaid term of enlistment, & that he knew said Drake, from the month of april, 1777, until the month of may, 1780 (Inclusive) and further says, that said Drake was discharged, at Camden, south-carolina, & further sayeth not.
John Tomison his mk. X
Bedford County sct
This day John Thomason a credible witness came before me a Justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid and State of Virginia and qualified to the foregoing affidavit according to law. Given under my hand this 8th day of March 1827
Chas. Whitely J P
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Virginia Bedford Clerks Office Sct
I Gustavus A Wingfield deputy clerk of the said County of Bedford do hereby certify that Charles Whitely Gent. whose signature appears to the within certificates is and was at the time of signing the Same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the said County of Bedford duly commissioned and qualified according to Law and that full faith and credit are due and of right ought to be given to all his official acts as such
[seal] In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County this 28th day of March 1827
G. A. Wingfield D.C.B.C.
Page 35

State of virginia Bedford-County. sct.
Johnathan Prater, aged seventy-two, being duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath, say, that william Drake enlisted at Fincastle, in the county of botetourt & state of virginia, in the month of april, seventeen hundred and seventy seven, for the term of three years, into the company commanded by Capt Perkins, seventh regiment, on continental establishment, commanded by Col. Saml. Haws; and further sayeth, that said Drake served faithfully, in said company and regiment, until the Month of [crossed out: august] May, seventeen hundred and eighty, at which time, the said Drake was honourably discharged, at Camden, in the state of south-Carolina. Deponent further sayeth, that he drove a baggage-waggon, which was attached to said regiment, & that he knew said Drake,—from the month of April, seventeen hundred and seventy seven, until the month of May, seventeen hundred and eighty. (Inclusive.)
Johnathan Prater his mk. X
Bedford County sct
This day Jonathan Prater a credible witness came before me a Justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid and state of Virginia and qualified to the foregoing affidavit according to law – Given under my hand this 8th day of March 1827
Chas. Whitely J P
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Elizabethtown Ky June 26th 1851.
James E Heath Esq Comr. of Pensions
Dear Sir
I have been employed by the heirs of Ann alias Nancy Drake to prosecute a claim for a Pension due to said Nancy as the widow of William Drake, who was a soldier of the Revolution and drew a Pension of $96-per annum. At the time he drew said Pension he lived in Franklin County Virginia & drew his money at Richmond He died 6th January 1829, and his widow died 17th august 1846.
I wish you to give me the necessary instructions how to proceed, & send me such forms as are necessary.
Very Respectfully
E. S. Brown
Page 37

Mr Heath
Sir
I ask yr. attention to the enclosed urgent letter and complaints of E. S. Brown, relating to the claim in yr Dept of the Heirs of William and Anna Drake.
Please let me know in reply to the enclosed letter and return it to me with yr reply to this
with Great hy and I am &c
Ben Edwards Grey
Ho of Reps
July 2nd 1852
Page 38

Mr. Heath
Court
for
[illegible] a letter from
Mr. Brown of [illegible] relations to
the claim of the heirs of Anna 
Drake.
Please inform me is [illegible]
to the [illegible] of Mr. Brown's
letters
The papers in reference to this 
claim can be found by reference
to the letter of the  [illegible] to Mr.
Brown in his letters [inelligle]
[illegible]
[illegible]
July 18
Page 39

Washington
House of Reps
Sir [?] the affidavit of Allen Drake to be [?] in en[?] on the application of Willm Drake for a pension. Mr & James W Stone
Hon Mr Heath Comr of Pension
Page 40

State of Kentucky
Hardin County Sct.
On this the 18th day of August A.D. 1851, before me, an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for the County & State aforesaid personally appeared appeared, Martin G. Wright aged fifty four years past, who is a credible Witness, who being first duly sworn according to law, states that he was personally acquainted with William Drake, late of Franklin County Virginia, and who died in said County on the 6th day of January A. D. 1829 That he was the identical William Drake who was reputed to be a soldier of the Revolution, and who drew a Pension of ninety six dollars per annum. That he was also personally acquainted with Anna Drake late of Hardin County Kentucky, and who died in said County on the 15th day of August A.D. 1847. That she was the widow of said William Drake That her maiden name was Anna Chappel That he knew them as man and wife as far back as 1799 or 1800, and knew them living together as man and wife for the space of nearly thirty years; that is to say, from the year 1799 or 1800 to the 6th day of January 1829. That they were persons of the highest respectability, and raised a respectable family of children, of whom five are now living, towit: James Drake, (who is six years older than he the said Martin G. Wight is.) Anna Winter aged 58, years William Drake aged 56; Cad
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Drake aged 54, and Abram Drake aged fifty years. That he was raised with the above named children, and has known them all intimately from the time of his earliest recollection up to the present time That he lived neighbor to them in Franklin County Virginia, until he, the said Wright removed to Kentucky. That the said Anna Drake and her five children above named, shortly afterwards, also removed to Kentucky, and all settled in the same neighborhood, and have so lived, (excepting those who died) up to the present time. That he believes the said Anna Drake whose maiden name was Anna Chappel and William Drake were married in Chesterfield County Virginia in the year 1783. That he was known said family intimately for at least fifty years and has heard the family history talked over at least a thousand times. That he is confident from his own age, that the said James Drake, the eldest of the above named children is at least sixty years of age; and as they, the said Anna & William must have been married near one year before the birth of said James Drake, then their marriage must have taken place, at least, as early as 1790. But he verily believes, & has not the shadow of a doubt that they were married in Chesterfield County Virginia in June 1783, for in this the children all agree, having derived their
Page 42

information from their parents, and retained it, some by records of their own, and some by tradition. He further states that he has often heard in the said Drake family above named that the said Anna had three children before the birth of the said James, by the said William Drake deceased, which died, two at their birth and one a few days afterwards. He further states that he is disinterested, and further saith not.
Martin G. Wright his mark X
Attest A. Frank Brown
Saml Haycroft
State of Kentucky Hardin County Sct
I, William M. Dunavan a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid certify that Martin G. Wright Subscribed & swore to the above affidavit before me this 18th day of August A. D. 1851.—the words "before the birth of the said James" interlined before signed.
William M. Dunavan Justice of the Peace
State of Kentucky Hardin County Sct:
I, Hugh J. Dunavan, Clerk of the County Court for the County aforesaid, certify that William M Dunavan whose signature appears to the above certificate, is and was at the time of signing the same
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an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, duly Commissioned and qualified, and that the foregoing Signature purporting to be his is genuine. His commission is dated on the 20 day of May AD 1851 & continues for the term of two years.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of said County Court at my office at Elizabethtown this 18th day of Aug'st 1851
Hugh I. Dunavan Clerk Hardin County Court
Page 44

№ 14.510
Pension Claim Act July 7th 1838
William Drakes Heirs. Proof of Marriage
Act 7 July 1838. Let Jany. 26. 1852.
E. S. Brown attorney Elizabethtown Ky.
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State of Kentucky Hardin County Sct:
On this 30th day of October A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty one, before me, John Miller, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county and state aforesaid, personally appeared Allen Drake aged eighty four years past, who is personally known to me, and is a credible witness, who being first duly sworn according to law states that he was personally acquainted with William Drake deceased late of Franklin County Virginia. That he was the identical William Drake who was a soldier of the Revolution and drew a Pension at the rate of ninety six dollars per annum, and who died in said County of Franklin and state of Virginia on the 6th day of January A.D. 1829 That he was also personally acquainted with Anna Drake, the widow of said William Drake. That her maiden name was Anna Chappel and she was married to the said William Drake in the County of Chesterfield and state of Virginia in the month of June 1783, by a Preacher by the name of Blackgrove. That he the said Allen Drake lived in the same neighborhood at the time of said marriage and he knew all the parties intimately well before and after said marriage That the said Anna Drake left five living children whose names and ages are as follows: James Drake aged sixty years, Anna Minter aged fifty eight, William Drake aged fifty six, Cad Drake aged fifty four and Abram Drake aged fifty years. That they are all living in the said county of Hardin & state of Kentucky, are the lawful children of the said William
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Drake and Anna Drake, and they are the only lawful children and heirs of said William and Anna. That the said Anna had some other children by the said William, but they all died in infancy, except one daughter, named Nancy who died at about the age of sixteen and never was married.
He further states that he knew the said Anna and William Drake decd. from the time of his earliest recollection till they died. That the said Anna, about seven years after the death of her said husband removed to Hardin County and state of Kentucky and died in said County on the 15th day of august AD 1847.
That the said William Drake deceased was his own brother, and was about eight or ten years the oldest.
He further states that he is disinterested
Subscribed & sworn before me this 30th day of October A.D. 1851
Allen Drake his mark X seal
John Miller Justice of the Peace.
attest
x John flowers
x James M Nelson
State of Kentucky Hardin County Sct
I Hugh J. Dunavan, Clerk of the county court for the county aforesaid do hereby certify that John Miller whose signature appears to the above certificate is and was, at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace
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in and for said county, duly commissioned and sworn, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine. His commission bears date on the 20th day of May 1851 and continues for the term of Four years
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said county court at my office at Elizabethtown this 26th day of November A.D. 1851
H. J. Dunavan Clk Hardin County Court
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harden County kantucky Nov Novmber 27 1855
Dear Sur the this opitnty of riten to you to find out Wether I got what war Comme to me [crossed out: illegible] and to my brother and sister I wil tri in as good a maner as I Can to ralat the sucamstnces to you in the fist plas 1827 my farther William Drake got a draft drue a panchen for his surfes in th old woshont wor three year got Eat dollars por month he drue that to his dath Janury 6th 1829 then his wife his widder did august the 14 1847 in 1851 E S Brown under tuck to git a Panch for tham the ars of thar lodes he got too hondred and Eaty dollars and sed that war all that he Cod git for aus from what others has got that wot what wor a loud for aus I won you to rit to me wether ther wil be anna Chanc for the ares to git anna more for the surves of the farthe i wel no that my farth nor non of his Cheldron nover got no f lume for all his surfes for th his surves in the nunited stats I wont you if you ples to Rit to ne us quick as you Can if you git this and direct yor letter to the big Sprenges harden County k y and let me no how to maneg to to git it and I wil pay you for yor truble if you wil l see to it a as i am a orkord in riten to you I Ramen yors Alen [Drake] a sun of william Drake
Mr Waldo Comission i hop this wont be mad fon of as I am orked for it is the fis th
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Elizabethtown Ky May 15th 1852.
Hon: Ben Edwards Grey
My Dear Sir,
I received your letter in reply to mine, in reference to allowing me a credit for stamps handed over to my successor, the present Post Master at this place, which was altogether satisfactory.
Permit me to tender to you my acknowledgements for your promptness and attention. And allow me further to say that you are pursuing a course which will secure you the confidence of your District, and give you a power and popularity which the malice of your enemies can never shake.
I delivered you message to [words hidden by fold in paper] He requested me to say that he had, in good faith, courted the widow for you, but that in doing so had unfortunately fallen in lover with her himself. He, therefore, wishes you, distinctly to understand that he is no longer your friend in that affair; but has now set up for himself.
I am sometimes in the habit of scribbling for the news papers. I inclose you a communication of mine, intended as a compliment to some of the young men of Kentucky. It is one of a series of letters addressed to the Louisville Journal.
Friend Grey, changing the subject, I am prosecuting a claim for the Heirs of Anna Drake, widow of William Drake decd., and am somewhat impatient to know whether or not it will be allowed.
William Drake was a Pensioner under the act of 1818, and drew a Pension of $96 per annum.
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At the time he drew said Pension he was a resident of Franklin County Va. He died in 1829, and his widow died in this county in 1847. This will enable you to find the claim. It amounts to about $1600.
In February last I recd. a letter from the commissioner of Pensions stating in substance that I must prove the marriage, and the births of the children, by record evidence, if such could be shown.
I forwarded record evidence of the births of the children, and proved also that after the most diligent search no record of the marriage could be found. I therefore proved the marriage to have occured before 1783, by living witnesses, towit: Martin G. Wright and Allen Drake.
If you can induce the Commissioner of Pensions to act upon the claim, and forward me the certificate, it will be all right. But if there is to be a further delay, I would be glad to know if the following papers have been received and filed, towit:
1st. The deposition of Allen Drake, proving the marriage of William & Anna Drake.
2nd. The deposition of Abram Drake proving the absence of any record evidence of said Marriage, and proving the births of the children by a record taken from the family Bible, in the hand writing of said William Drake decd.
Please have an interview with the commissioner of Pensions, and examine the papers, and write to me, and you will place me under everlasting obligations to you.
Very Truly Your Friend
E. S. Brown.
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harden County kentucky janry 25th 1856
Surs I resevd yor letter but giv me but littel sades faction for as sun as I got it and red it I fond that thar had bin sum mis stak made sum way By Mr Brown or sum won alce for thar wont aplicathion mad in Mothes life tim nor wont tel june 1851 then it war mad by Brown than he war in Poled by the fiv dres he a told the ares that he Cod not git but too hunded and eaty dollars for the Clam had not bin mad for taken Car of the old Penthen this is a fact and I Con Prov it for tha wont no Por teshons sent in 1837 nor in 1841 by me.
thes por teshe wor not mad by anna of the ares of William Drake and Nancy by that menes thar most of bin a mastake by the letter you giv me by thes menes I Abram Drake las im Clam for take Car of the too old Peple from janary 29 1825 tel janary 6th 1829 the old man did he wor hepes all the time he dru a hundred and six dollas in that and it ded not half pay his expences then the old lady tel 1847 august 14 when she did and she wor on my hands all that tim and she Con not be put on the County the resen wor that she wor the wife of Regler soger all this I Can Prove to be a fact by too or three wetnes and I dont no what is the resen that I Cant be a loud somthe as wel as others ounder the sam Clam at the same depat ment this I no has bin don by the lues vill Compney and by outer Penchers agnos and my farther never got no land nor non of his Cheldren and I want to no the resen of that I am avorked in this this lin of beseness so for that resen I hop tha you all wil be onest as you ar all jantel men and i a por man I wont you to rit me a ancer to this and you wil obleg yors Abram Drake
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Elizabethtown Kentucky February 12th 1852.
Col. James E. Heath Comr. of Pensions
Dear Sir,
You letter of the 26th ultimo, signed J. Wilson, was duly received, and is now before me.
You write as follows:
"I have examined the papers in the case of Anna Drake decd., widow of William, whose heirs are applying for a Pension in right of their deceased mother, under act of 7th July 1838, but find that the date of the marriage is not sustained as required by the rules of this Department. Before we can take parole evidence at all, it must be shown, that none of a higher grade, such as record or documentary is in existence. You have shown from the Clerk of the Chesterfield county Court that there is no record of that event; but you do not even state that there is no family Register. If such is in existence, showing the date of that occurrence, or the births of the children, it should be produced. If not, the ages of the children should be proved."
In conformity to the above, I herewith inclose you the affidavit of Abram Drake, in which he states that there is no record of the marriage. I send also, all the Family Register that ever belonged to the family, which shows the births of all the children of said William and Anna Drake.
This additional proof, if I understand the meaning of the above recited letter, will be sufficient to authorize you to allow the claim.
When the certificates are issued, you will please inclose them to me at this place. Very Respectfully
E. S. Brown
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Certificate From Chesterfield Co Va.
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State of Virginia Chesterfield County SS:
I, Silas Cheatham, Clerk of the County Court, for the county aforesaid, certify that I have made diligent Search among the Records in my office, and can find no evidence of the Marriage of William Drake to Ann, alias Nancy Chappel.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County Court, at my office at Chesterfield Court House this 31st day of July A.D. 1851.
Silas Cheatham C
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Elizabethtown Kentucky February 13th 1852.
J. Wilson Esq
Dear Sir,
I this day forwarded to the Commissioner of Pensions, additional proof in the case of the heirs of Anna Drake, widow of William, who was a Revolutionary Pensioner, and drew $96 per annum. William Drake died in Franklin County Va., in 1829; and his widow, Anna Drake died in this, Hardin Co: Ky. in August 1847.
The additional proof above alluded to was sent in conformity to the requirements of a letter signed by yourself, for the commissioner of Pensions, and dated Jany 26th 1852. Having fully complied with the Rules of the Department, the claim is now fully established, and nothing to be done but to examine the additional proof above referred to, and issue the Certificates.
One of the heirs is anxious to remove to the state of Arkansas as early as possible, and desires to realize his interest in the above claim before he leaves. He therefore authorizes me to say that he will cheerfully pay a fee of $5~ if you will take up the claim immediately, and forward the Certificates. Should you find it convenient to do so, I will collect the $5. and forward it to you immediately after the receipt of the Certificates.
You will please answer this immediately, and say whether or not the additional proof above alluded to was received
Very Respectfully E. S. Brown
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Additional Proof in support of the claim of The Heirs of Anna Drake Widow of Wm. Drake decd. Revolutionary Pensioner, late of Franklin County Va.
E. S. Brown attorney Elizabethtown Hardin County Kentucky.
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State of Kentucky Hardin County
Be it known that on this the 10th day of February AD 1852, before me William M Dunavan, a Justice of the Peace in and for said county and state, personally appeared Abram Drake, aged fifty three years past, who is personally known to me, and who is a credible witness, who being first duly sworn according to law, states that he is the youngest of the living children and heirs of William Drake and Anna Drake decd. That he has made application before the commissioner of Pensions for a Pension in right of his mother, the said Anna Drake deceased. That he has been informed by his agent & attorney, that it is necessary, and is required by the commissioner of Pensions that he shall exhibit record proof, if possible, of the Marriage of said William and Anna Drake, and record proof of the ages of all their living children. He states that his father, the said William Drake lived with him from the month of January 1825, until his death, which took place January 6th 1829. That then his mother, the said Anna Drake lived with him from that time until the 15th day of August 1847, being the date of her death. That after the death of his father, he remained in Franklin County Virginia – his mother living with him, until sometime in the Month of October 1836, when he removed to Hardin County Kentucky, bringing his mother with him. That she remained with him in said county of Hardin and state of Kentucky until the day of her death, aforesaid. That he had posession of all his fathers papers, from the time he came to live with him in 1825, till the day of his death; and has still kept them, until the present time; and he never saw among them, any record of his fathers marriage to the said Anna; nor does he believe that any such record exists. That he has been informed, and believes, that the Clerk of Chesterfield County Virginia, has certified that he can find no
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record of said marriage in his office. That he verily believes there never was any record of that event. But that he has heard his father and mother both say, many a time, that they were married in Chesterfield County Virginia in June 1783 by one Parson Blackgrove. That he has also heard his uncle Allen Drake, (who is now about eighty five years of age,) say, that they were married between the 20th and 25th of June 1783, as above stated That the said Allen Drake is now living in the said county of Hardin and state of Kentucky, and has given his deposition or affidavit, in support of the said claim.
That when his father, the said William Drake came to live with him as aforesaid, in 1825, he brought with him a small bible, which had a small sheet of writing paper tucked in it, between the Old and new Testament, and on the second page of said sheet, (which made four pages of equal size with the pages of said bible,) in the hand writing of his father, the said William Drake decd, the births of the children of said William and Anna were recorded. That said bible remained in his possession until the summer before the said Anna died, when she gave said Bible to her neice, Jane Drake, the daughter of William Drake That before said Bible was taken away, he, the said Abram Drake cut said sheet out, which shows the births of the living children as follows: (in the hand writing of his father, the said William Drake.)
James Drake was Born november the 12th 1789.
Ann Drake was Born august the 27th day 1792
William Drake Was Born June the 27th Day 1794
Cad drake was Born february the 15 Day 1796.
Abraham Drake was Born January 12th Day 1799.
That the above named are the only children, and the only lawful heirs now living. That the other children all died without heirs, none of them ever having married.
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That the said record being the only record of the births or marriages of either the said William or Nancy, now in existence, so far as he knows or believes, he now surrenders it to be sent, herewith, to be filed with the other papers pertaining to the pension aforesaid, in the office of the Commissioner of Pensions.
And further he saith not.
Abram Drake Seal
Attest
E. S. Brown.
Subscribed and sworn to before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Hardin & State of Kentucky this 10th day of February AD. 1852
William M. Dunavan Justice of the Peace.
State of Kentucky Hardin County Sct
I, Hugh I. Dunavan, Clerk of the County Court, for the County aforesaid, certify that William M. Dunavan, whose signature appears to the above certificate, is, and was, at the time of sighning the same, an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for the County and State aforesaid duly Commissioned and Sworn, according to law, and that the above signature purporting to be his is genuine
His commission bears date on the 20th day of May '51, and continues four years. (Date of Commission 20th day of May AD. 1851.)
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County Court at my office in Elizabethtown this 11th day of February AD one thousand, eight hundred and fifty two
H.J. Dunavan Clk Hardin County Court
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Davis Elkins
West Virginia
United States Senate
Washington, D.C.
February 19, 1925.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.
Sir: 
Enclosed is a letter from Mrs. J.R. Rich of Princeton, West Virginia, who is desirous of certain information mentioned therein. If you can consistently comply with Mrs. Rich's request I will be very glad.
Sincerely, 
Davis Elkins