Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 1196, George Brierly, Md.
Page 1

(3-1776)

SERVICE | Brierly, George | Number
Md. | Mary | R. 1196

CONTENTS
Page 2

7436
Kentucky 

George Brierly 
of Mason Co. in the State of Kentucky 
who was a private in the company commanded 
by Captain Ames of the -- commanded 
by -- in the Md 
line for 6 months 

Inscribed on the Roll of Kentucky 
at the rate of 20 Dollars --- Cents per annum, 
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 12 day of April 
1833 and sent to 
Walker Reid Washington Ky

Arrears to the 4th of March 40.00
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Sept 10.00
$50.00
=====

{ Revolutionary Claim, }
{ Act June 7, 1832. }

Recorded by Daniel Boyd Clerk, 
Book E Vol. 7 Page 3
Page 3

11,087
Mason County 
George Briely
Kentucky 

from 1777 private 
6 months 
$20.

Col Ames

Walker Reid 
Washington Kenty
Page 4

BRIEF in the case of George Brierly 
of Mason County in the State of Kentucky 
(Act 7th June, 1832.)

1.  Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge?  before a Court

2.  If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?

3.  How old is he?  75

4.  State his service, as directed in the form annexed.

==============================================================
Period. | 
______ |
drafted |
Septr. In 1777 |
called out |
again under |
the same officers for a short time |
but states he did duty a long time |
as a militia man |
he thinks more than |
6 months-in all he says about 9 months |
Duration of Service. |
_________________ | 
Years, | Months, | Days. |
[blank] | 1 | [blank]
Rank. |
______ |
As a |
Names of General and Field Officers 
under whom he served.
_______________________________
Gen Smallwood Captn Amos

5.  In what battles was he engaged? none

6.  Where did he reside when he entered the service?  Hartford [Harford] County Maryland 

7.  Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by 
incidental evidence, or by the rolls?  Traditionary evidence

8.  Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect?  correct

I Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above 
mentioned.

Jno N Arthon
Examining Clerk.
Page 5

Claim for pensions 
Act July 7, 1838
May 23/53

Mrs Mary Brierly 
Widow of George Brierly
Declarations 

Revy

Charles C. Tucker 
Attorney 
Present
Page 6

State of Kentucky }
County of Bracken } S. S. 

On this 9th day of May 
A.D. 1853, personally appeared before me Benjamin 
G. Willis President Judge of the County and State 
above named, Mary Brierly, a resident of Bracken County 
in the State of Ky. aged ninety two years, who being 
duly sworn according to law, doth, on her oath, make the 
following declarations, in order to obtain the benefit of the 
provisions made by the act of Congress, passed July 7, A.D. 
1838, granting pensions to widows of persons, who served during 
the revolutionary war.  That she is the widow of the iden
tical George Brierly, who was a pensioner of the United 
States, on the Kentucky roll, at the rate of Twenty dollars 
per year, under the act of June 7, 1832.

She further declares that she was married to the said George 
Brierly on the 27 day of March AD 1793 at Washing
ton, Mason County Ky, by one -- Willson a presbyterian 
clergyman, that her name before said marriage, was Mary 
Garrison and that her husband the aforesaid, George Bri
erly, died [struck out: at Bracken County Ky] in the County of Bracken State 
of Kentucky, on the 30th day of September A.D. 1833.  That she 
knows of no public, or private record of either, the said marr
iage or death.  That she has remained a widow ever since the 
death of her said husband.  She claims all arrearages of Pension.
Attest
A. Weaver | Mary her X mark Brierly [word Seal encircled]
B. G. Willis
Page 7

State of Kentucky, Bracken Sct.

I certify that the foregoing declaration 
of Mary Brierly was this day sworn to and subscribed by her 
before me; and that I believe her statements therein contained 
are true.  I also certify that I have no interest in this claim dir
ectly, or indirectly, and that I am not concerned in its prose
cution, and that she is of the age above stated.
Given under my hand this 9th day of May A.D.
1853.  Benj. G. Willis
Presiding Judge of Bracken County Court

State of Ky, Bracken County Sct.

I also further certify that Mary Brierly 
from her extreme age, and infirmity of body, is unable to app
ear in open Court to make this declaration.  Given under 
my hand this 9th day A.D. 1853.
Benj. G. Willis 
Presiding Judge, Bracken County Court

Know all men by these presents, that I Mary Brierly of the 
County of Bracken, in the State of Ky, do hereby constitute and 
appoint, Charles C. Tucker of Washington, D.C. my true & 
lawful agent and attorney, for me and in my case to 
prepare and prosecute my claim for a revolutionary pension 
by the reason of the services of my deceased husband; and I 
hereby empower my said attorney to examine all records and docum
ents, in reference to said claim on file in the department at 
Washington D.C. to file additional evidence and arguments, and 
do all lawfull [lawful] acts and things, whatsoever, touching the premise
Page 8

es, with full power of substitution.  Hereby revoking and counter
manding all former powers of attorney, that may have been 
given by me for the above specified purpose. 
Witness my hand and seal this 9th day of May 
A.D. 1853.  Attest }
B. G. Willis }
A Weaver } Mary her X mark Brierly [word Seal encircled]

State of Ky. Bracken County Sct.

On this 9th day of May A.D. 1853, person
ally appeared before me, Mary Bierly, and acknowledged 
the foregoing power of attorney to be her act and deed, for the 
purpose therein mentioned.
Benj. G. Willis
Pres.dt, Judge, Bracken County Court

State of Kentucky }
Bracken County } Sct

I Richd. J Hughey Clerk of the County Court 
of Bracken County Ky, do hereby certify that, Benj G Willis 
before whom the foregoing declarations, powers of attorney & affidavits 
were made; and who has thereunto signed his name was at the 
time of so doing President Judge of the County and State above 
named, duly commissioned and sworn, and that his signature 
thereto is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscrib
ed my name, and affixed my seal of office 
[Blurred seal of office] done at office in the town of Brookville 
on this 13th day of May A.D. 1853.
Richd. J. Hughey Clk
Page 9

[Two panels]
[Left panel]

Md '43
Jas. Jones record

[Right panel]

George Brierly 
died Sept. 1835

👉I believe this 
is a fraudulent 
case
Page 10

Treasury Department 
Third Auditor'sOffice
Nov 25 1853

Sir,

Eleven dollars & fifty cents will be 
remitted thro' you to Mary Brierly, widow 
of George Brierly, decd. a pensioner of the 
Ky Agency, per act 7 June 1832, for his 
pension from 4 March 1835 to 30 Sept 
1835, when he died, at $20 per annum.

I am, Sir, your 
Obedient Servant 

Saml. S. Rind
Actg. Third Auditor 

Chas. C. Tucker Esq.
Washington, 
D.C.
Page 11

State of Kentucky Mason County Ss  On this 10th day of September 1832 personally appeared 
before the county court of Mason County, composed of the Justices of the peace duly commissioned 
by the Governor and sworn according to the constitution and now holding court in 
the town of Washington having a Clerk & seal of office and [illegible] so by the Sheriff 
and being a court of Record in active discharge of the business of sd. County 
George Brierly a resident of said County of Mason aged seventy five 
years who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath 
make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of 
the act of Congress passed June 7th 1832.  That he entered the 
service of the United States under the following named officers 
served as herein states.  General Smallwood was the commander 
Alexander Cowan was Colonel, and Gates was major.  His 
Captains name was Benjamin Amos, Lieutenants name was 
Joshua Amos & Second Lieutenant Abraham Williams and ensigns name was Jonah Hitchcock
And under the said officers towards the last of September 
1777, he thinks that to be the year that Cornwalls came 
up the Chesapeake to the head of Elk.  He joined 
the militia being among those drafted & called out 
in Harford County in Maryland, where he was born 
and raised to manhood, and he remained with 
the militia about one month and was discharged 
had no battles and only marched to the head of 
Elk as just stated.  He was again called out under 
the same under Officers and after a short time 
& a short march directing their course towards 
Virginia, at the time the said fleet went round 
to Little York. he was again discharged 
without a fight, and these two occasions are 
the only two in which he recollects to have been 
marched out of the county.  But he done duty 
as a drafted militia man in the County a long 
time, and he readily believes more then six 
months in all being stationed at a place called 
Bush in Harford on the Bay, at times & 
watching at various other time. about 
the fall of 1778 he was drafted he thinks in 
September and hired a substitute for 
sixty dollars who served in his stead 
and he received a discharge for nine
months, but has lost it, or mislaid 
it, and he has lost his discharges for 
the six months services rendered 
in proper [illegible] and he has no 
documents to prove his services, nor does 
he know of but one living person here 
who can prove the same, the widow of 
his decease brother namely Margaret Bryerly,
Page 12

Since writing the foregoing some two weeks ago the said 
George Bryerly says that he has recollected Abraham 
Williams who was Second Lieutenant of the company 
in which he served and by whom he can 
prove his services.  His name is not on the 
pension list of any State or territory or  
of the United States, and he relinquishes 
all rights to any pay or pension 
save that now requested under 
said act of Congress of June 7th 1832 
He is acquainted with Capt. Thomas Montjoy now one of the Court 
and Walker Reid, a practicing lawyer & George Mefford who will prove him 
entitled to credit & that from repute he served in the re
volutionary war.  The record of his age is at Pittsburg. he has lived in the  
State of Kentucky about twenty years.
Geor. Brierly

Abraham Williams at the same time and place made 
oath that he was Lieutenant Second Lieutenant in 
Captain Benjamin Amos' company of minute 
men, first commanded by Jarrett as Captain 
and that George Bryerly did serve in 
said company as a militia man during the 
war of the Revolution. he knew 
him well and thinks his age is 
about seventy five & he knew 
him before he joined the service.
Abraham Williams
Page 13

Thomas Montjoy & Geo. Mefford who made oath at 
the same time & place that they are & have been for 
many years acquainted with Bryerly the 
foregoing affiant and that they do be
lieve he was a soldier in the revolution
ary war.  And that he is a man 
entitled to credit on oath.
Thos. Mountjoy
George Mefford 

State of Kentucky 
Mason County Sct. September Court 1832. 

George Brierly produced his declaration with the Deposi
tion of Abraham Williams and the Certificate of 
Thomas Mountjoy and George Mefford attached thereto 
which were sworn to in open Court.  And the Court 
after the investigation of the matter is of opinion that 
the said George Brierly was a revolutionary soldier & 
served as he states, and that said Abraham Williams 
Thomas Mountjoy & George Mefford are credible persons 
and their statements are entitled to credit.

I Marshall Key, Clerk of the County Court for said 
County do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the 
original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of 
application of George Brierly for a pension
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto 
set my hand and the seal of office 
[Blurred seal of office] for the said Court this 24th day 
of September 1832.
Marshall Key.
Page 14

State of Kentucky }
Mason County } Sct:

I, Robert A Cochran Clerk of the County 
Court in and for the County & State aforesaid, do 
hereby certify, that George Brierly was mar
ried to Mary Garrison on the 7th day of 
March 1816 by Robert Wilson, Presbyterian minister, 
as appears from the Record of Marriages in my 
office as follows, to wit:
"George Brierly 
To [illegible] married 7th March 1816 by Robt Wilson"
Mary Garrison
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set 
my hand and affixed the seal of 
said Court, at office in the City of 
Maysville, this 22nd day of November 
A.D. 1856.
Robt. A. Cochran, Clerk 
Mason County Court
Page 15

State of Kentucky }
Mason County } Ss.

On this 9th day of February 
A.D. 1854, before me a Justice of the peace, in and 
for the County and State above named, personally 
came George Brierly Jnr, a resident of Bracken County 
in the State of Kentucky, a credible and disinterested 
witness, who being duly sworn according to law decl
ares that he is a son of George Brierly Senr deceased 
& Mary Brierly.  That he was born in the County of 
Mason in the State of Kentucky, on the first day 
of April (1794) seventeen hundred & ninety four.

He also states that he has no record of 
his birth, but knows his age from the following fact. 
When war was declared by the United States against 
Great Britain on the 18th day of June 1812, he was 
then eighteen years of age, and was one of a company who 
drew lots, to serve in said war, and drew a blank and therefore 
had not to go.  He also declares that his father was married 
to his said mother, as he has always been told by 
them sometime in the spring of the year, seventeen 
hundred & ninety three.  He also declares that his father 
was a pensioner, in his lifetime, on the Kentucky 
roll, at the rate of Twenty dollars per annum. 
That Mary Brierly is his lawful widow, and has 
remained a widow ever since the death of his fath
er, and is now a widow, and resides in the County 
of Bracken in the State of Kentucky at this time.

He also swears he is a disinterested witness.
Attest
Jno. N. Jefferson | George his X mark Brierly [encircled L S]
Henry Young

Sworn to and subscribed before me by the 
said George Brierly, on this the day and date first 
above written.  And I certify that he is truthful
Page 16

and competent witness.  I also certify that I have no 
interest in this claim, and am no way concerned 
in the prosecution thereof.
Saml W Wood J.P. M. C.

State of Kentucky Mason County Sct.

I Robert A. Cochran Clerk of the 
Mason County Court, do hereby certify that Samuel W. 
Wood, Esq, before whom the foregoing affidavit was 
made and who has thereunto subscribed his name 
was at the time of so doing, an acting Justice of 
the peace, in and for the County and State above 
named, duly commissioned and sworn, and that 
his signature thereto is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto 
subscribed my name, and affixed 
the seal of my office, done in 
the City of Maysville on this 9th 
[struck out: 2d] day of February A.D. 1854.
Robt A. Cochran Clk

[Written vertically right margin]
Affidavit of 
George Brierly 
9 Feby. 1854

B

(B)
Page 17

Affidavit of 
George } 12th May 1854
Brierly Jr. }
Page 18

State of Kentucky }
Mason County } Ss.

On this 12th day of May, A.D. 1854, before 
the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, 
personally appeared George Brierly Jr, and made oath according 
to law, that he is the same George Brierly who made an Affidavit on 
the 25th of March last to be filed with the claim of his Mother, 
Mary Brierly for Revolutionary Pension, and that he is in
formed the Pension Office objects to said Affidavit because 
it does not state how he knows he was twenty one years old 
in April 1815; and therefore he now further swears that he 
knows it from the fact that at the time of the news of the Battle 
of New Orleans being received in Kentucky, an event causing 
great joy throughout the nation, he well remembers that like 
most other young men he was looking forward with interest 
to the following first day of April when he should be twenty 
one years of age and be entitled to all the privileges of a man, 
as his parents, George and Mary Brierly always told him 
that they were married in March or April seventeen hun
dred and ninety three and that he was born on the first day 
of April seventeen hundred and ninety four, which he had no 
reason to doubt, and it was so understood and acknowledged 
by the neighbors ever since he was a small boy and heard con
versations relative to their marriage and his birth, such as are 
common in every neighborhood; and he cannot be mistaken 
in the year he became twenty one, because the Battle of 
New Orleans cannot be forgotten in Kentucky by persons of 
his age, and because history fixes it as having occurred on the 
8th of January 1815 beyond all question.  The Deponent also swears 
that he has always kept the same account of his own age, having 
no earthly reason to suppose that his parents could possibly 
have been mistake as to their marriage and his birth having 
taken place at the times above mentioned, and that he verily 
believes, as much as he believes anything that he has not seen,
Page 19

that he was sixty years of age on the first day of April, 
last, (1854.)  George his X mark Brierly Jnr
Joseph D Dryden
Jno N. Jefferson
Sworn to and subscribed before me, the day and year afore
said, and I certify that the above named George Brierly is 
a credible person, and I believe that the foregoing statements 
are true and that he is sixty years of age.
Henry S Jefferson J.P.

State of Kentucky }
Mason County } Ss.

On this 12th day of May A.D. 1854, person
ally appeared before me, a Justice of the peace, Thomas Cumber 
and Joseph D. Dryden known to me as respectable 
citizens of this County, and having heard me read the foregoing 
affidavit of George Brierly, depose and say that they have known 
said George for forty years past, and believe his statements 
to be true, and although it is difficult to judge the precise 
age of any man, they believe his is sixty years old as he 
states; and that they are not interested in said claim.
Thos. Cumber
Joseph D Dryden

Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year afore
said, and I certify that I have no interest in said claim, 
and am not concerned in the prosecution of it.

I also certify that the word "that" was interlined before 
the above affidavit was signed, sworn to or certified.
Henry S. Jefferson J.P.
Page 20

State of Ky Mason County Sct.

I Robert A Cochran Clerk of the Mason 
County Court do hereby certify that Henry S. Jefferson Esqr 
before whom the foregoing affidavits of George Brierly Jr
Thomas Cumber and Joseph D. Dryden were made and 
who has thereunto subscribed his name, was at the time 
of so doing an acting Justice of the peace, in and for 
said County duly commissioned and sworn, and that his 
signature thereto is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subs
cribed my name and affixed the seal 
of my office, done in the City of Mays
ville on this 13th day of May 1854. 
Robt. A. Cochran Clerk
Page 21

[Two panels]
[Left panel]

14,758 Augt 17. 52
Appl. of Mary 
Brierly widow 
of Geo. Brierly 
[struck out: 1818 Ky]

July 7th 1838
32

John N. Jefferson 
Maysville 
Kentucky

First Declaration 

[Right panel]

[Written vertically right margin]

State of Kentucky } 
County of Bracken, } Sct.
Page 22

State of Kentucky } 
County of } Sct

[struck out: person] On this 28th day of July A. D. 1852, 
personally appeared before John D Gough a Justice 
of the peace within and for the County and State 
aforesaid, Mary Brierly, aged eighty nine years a resi
dent of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky, who bein
g duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the 
widow of George Brierly deceased, who was a pensioner 
of the United States, under the act of, on the rolls of 
the Lexington agency at the rate ninety six dollars 
per year, that the deceased pensioner resided in the 
County of Bracken in the State of Kentucky for 
twenty two years previous to his death, and died at 
his residence in said County on the last day of September A. D. 
"1833"  She further states that she was 
legally married to the said George Brierly, by one 
Willson a Presbyterian minister of the gospel, at 
in the State of Kentucky on the 27th 
day of March "1793" and that she has remained 
a widow ever since the death of her said husband 
and that she is still a widow, and knows of no record of 
the death of her said husband, or her marriage to him 
either public or private.  She also further declares that 
for the time of about one or more years previous to the death of her 
said husband, he neglected to make out, the proper vouchers 
to draw his pension, and did not draw the said for that 
time.

She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtainin
g the amount of Pension to which she may be entitled as the 
widow of the said George Brierly (a Revolutionary pension
er) [word struck out] both for the arrears of pension, due him at his death
Page 23

any kind, for a pension of any kind whatever, and refers 
the Commissioner of Pensions to the Declaration affidavit 
&c, now on file at the City of Washington D.C. placed 
there for her said husband, to obtain his pension aforesaid and 
that they be referred to as evidence to establish her right 
thereto.
Attest
H. B Barkly | Mary her X mark Brierly [word Seal encircled]
Edmg Keaton
Sworn to and subscribed before me, by Mary Brier
ly, on this the date above mentioned, and I hereby certify that 
Mary Brierly is the identical person heretofore stated to 
be, and [struck out: and] that she is of the age above stated
Jno. D. Gough 
A Justice of the peace 
of Bracken County Ky

State of Kentucky }
Bracken County } Sct.

On this 28th day of July 1852 
before me John D. Gough a Justice of the peace 
personally appeared Willaim B. Cooper, who being duly 
sworn according to law, declares that he was well 
acquainted with George Brierly during his life, for many 
years, the husband of Mary Brierly, who has made the 
annexed declaration, that he knows that George 
and Mary Brierly, lived together as man and wife 
and were legally so, for many years, and that he died 
her husband; that he knows George Brierly drew a 
pension [repeated: pension] to his death, and that he knows 
George Brierly is dead, and that he died at the 
time, the place, and as described by his widow 
Mary Brierly, and pronounced the facts therein stated 
by her to be strictly true.
Page 24

He further states, that "Mary Brierly" is the widow 
of the identical, "George Brierly," that she represents herself 
to be, the facts, being well known, to him having 
known both George Brierly and Mary Brierly well and 
was intimately acquainted with both of them.

He also further states that he has no interest, in the 
pension claim of Mary Brierly whatever.
Wm. B Cooper [word Seal encircled]
Sworn to and subscribed before me on this the date 
above stated
State of Kentucky } Jno. D. Gough J. P. B. C.
County of Bracken } Sct.

On this 28th day of July 1852 
before me, Jno D. Gough, a justice of the peace within 
and for the County and State aforesaid, personally 
appeared Thomas Brierly who being duly sworn 
according to law declares, [struck out: declares] that he well knows 
that Mary Brierly, who made the annexed declaration 
is the lawful widow of George Brierly deceased, that they 
lived together as man and wife for many years, previous 
to his death and ever since man and wife at the time of his death 
and that they were married at the time, the place 
and in the manner described by her in her decla
ration.  He also states that George Brierly drew a pension in 
his lifetime, until about one year previous to his death 
He also declares, that the said "George Brierly died at 
the time and place described by his said widow 
and that he also knows, that the papers of George Brierly 
relating to his said pension, were taken possession of by 
Robert Brierly in the manner described, and that 
he refuses to give them up and she cannot obtain 
them from him

He also declares, that he has no interest in her claim 
to the said pension either directly or indirectly.
Thomas Brierly [word Seal encircled]
Page 25

State of Kentucky }
County of Bracken } Sct

I John D Gough certify that the foregoing affidav
it of [struck out: of] Thomas Brierly was this day subscribed and sworn 
to before me, by him in the manner above stated.
July the 28th A.D. 1852
Jno. D. Gough
A Justice of the peace of 
Bracken County Kentucky

Know all men by these presents, that I Mary Brierly 
have this day nominated constituted and appointed 
John N Jefferson of the City of Maysville County of Mas
on and State of Kentucky, my true and lawful attorney for me 
and in my name, to receive from the United States the 
amount of Pension to which I may be entitled, as the 
widow of George Brierly deceased, or any checks drafts 
or any thing else for the same, and to do all lawful acts &c 
things relative to the foregoing claim of Mary Brierly 
of any kind, whatsoever legally, hereby [illegible] all 
the acts of my said attorney, touching the same in any 
manner, whatsoever. In testimony whereof I have hereunto 
to signed my name and affixed my seal
Attest
Cain Morain | Mary her X mark Brierly [word Seal encircled]
Jno Dells
[struck out: Sworn] Acknowledged and signed before me on this the 
28th day of July A. D. 1852. Jno. D. Gough
A Justice of the Peace
Page 26

State of Kentucky }
County of Bracken } Sct

I Richard J Hughey Clerk of the Court of the County 
Court for Bracken County, in the State of Kentucky, hereby certify 
that John D Gough, before whom, the foregoing declaration 
affidavits and power of atty were taken, was at the time an 
[repeated: an] acting justice of the peace within and for the County 
and State aforesaid duly commissioned according to law, and 
that his signature thereto is genuine.  In testimony 
[Blurred seal of County] whereof, I have hereunto signed my name and 
affixed the County seal, on this the 5th day 
August A. D. 1852.
Richard J Hughey Clerk
Page 27

1196
[illegible initials]

P. O. Mary Brierly 
widow of George 
Service: 

[Stamp] REJECTED 

Enlisted: , 18 
Discharged: , 18

Application filed: , 18 

Alleges: 
Re-enlisted:

Attorney: 
P. O.:

___Recognized.  ___Contract.
Page 28

No. 6054
Mary Brierly, widow 
of George Kentucky

👉See case of Mary Brierly 
suspended under act July 7 1838
Ky and letter to 

Joseph H Shirwin Octo 11 1853
Feby 3, 1853

14,758
[Remainder of image cannot be transcribed]
Page 29

14758
Mary Brierly wid
ow of George KY.

John N Jefferson Mch 23 1853 -
C. C. Tucker Aug 8 1853 -
Same Jany 3 1854. Do Feby 
22 1854, Do Apl 14 1854, Do
May 23 1854 - Do July 28 1854 
Do Aug 22 1854- Richard 
Hughy Aug 24 1854 - Benj
G Willis Sep 5 1854 - Joseph 
H Shirwin Oct 11 1853 - 
Same Jany 31 1856 - C.C. Rogers 
Dist. Attorney Jany 31 1856 -
same Feby 4 1856 -
same Nov 26, 1856 
C. C. Rodgers { Mch 19, 1857
Joseph H Shirwin {
" " " May 6, 1857

July 7 1838
Page 30

Seal [Top right corner]
State of Kentucky, Mason County Set
I Robert A. Cochran, Clerk of the County court of Mason County Ky - do hereby certify, that I have examined, the records of Marriages, of Mason County and that there does not appear, thereon, any marriage of George Brierly to Mary Garrison.
My testimony whereof, I have hereunto Subscribed my name, and affixed the Seal of the Mason County Court - (Done at office in the [illegible] of May [illegible], on this 16th day of May A.D. 1863.
Robt. A. Cochran Clerk
Page 31

John N. Jefferson
March 10/53

[Written vertically right margin]

Letter written to Mr Jeffeson 
23 March 1853.
Page 32

Maysville March 10th 1853

Dr Sirs 

Eight or nine months since I sent 
to the department, the claim of Mary Brierly, 
widow of George Bryerly, who was a revolutionary pensioner  
in which she claimed a pension after the decease 
of her said husband George, he having died a good 
many years since.

The declaration of Mrs Bryerly was made 
before a Magistrate, because she was and still is unable 
to go to Court, being almost helpless but I think I omitted 
to state the fact in her declaration, or to have it certified 
to the department.  If it be absolutely necessary that it 
should be, please inform me and I will have it done.

I am constituted atty in that claim and hope the depart
ment will give me information relative to it, as soon 
as convenient, this being the third time I have written 
to the department concerning the same, and have never 
yet received an answer

Also with the department please inform me 
what disposition has been made of the claim of Thomas 
Devin, who claims the amount of Pension due his mother 
Mary Devin at the time of hers. She being the widow of 
William Devin a revolutionary pensioner.  I am the atty 
in that case also, and have not ever obtained a receipt 
from the department informing that the claim has reached 
there.  Respy. Yrs - John N. Jefferson. *

[Written vertically left margin]
* The past [illegible] aff relates to Bounty land cases & has been referred to 
Owen. March 17, 1853.
Page 33

Brooksville Ky. Augt. 30th 1854.

Sir

Yours of 24th Inst is before me, making inquiry 
as to Benj. G. Willis Esq &c.

He is County Judge of Bracken, 
but his office expires on the 1st Monday in 
Sept. next.  His Post Office is "Brooksville, 
Bracken County, Ky."  Joseph Doniphan Esq
is his successor, and will enter upon the 
duites of his office on the 1st Monday in 
Sept next, according to law.

Command my services freely

I am your most
Obt. Servt.

Richd J Hughey

S. Cole Esqr.
Acting Commsr. of Pensions }
Washington City }
D.C. }
Page 34

[Envelope with notes]

From 11085
11086
11087 
Kentucky

[Address]

Public Service Washington [illegible] Free
for pensions 25 Sep

To the Honble 
Lewis Cass
Secretary War Deptmt.
Washington City
Page 35

Washington Mason County Ky Sep. 24th 1832

To the Honble. Secty of War,

Dear Sir,

At the request of three old men, namely 
Benjamin Berry, George Bryerly & Abm. Williams 
I enclose their statements for a pension, made as 
they say under the last act of Congress June 7. 1832.

You will oblige them by addressing 
a letter to me on the subject.

Most respectully
Your Fellow Citizen

Walker Reid

memo. Thomas Marshall Esq.
member of Congress from this dis
trict returned the papers to 
me last week mentioned 
in Ben Berry's Statement 
being unable to procure any 
relief as the law stood be
fore June 1832 W.R.
Page 36

Mary Brierly, Wid
ow of George of Ky.

Applied under Act of 1838 
and repeatedly swore she 
was married in 1793, 
and various witnesses de
posed to the truth of her 
statement.  She now ap
plies under the Act of 1853, 
says nothing of having ap
plied under 1838 and de
clares she was married 
in 1811 and proves it by 
2 witnesses.  See case 
under act of July 7 1838 
suspended Ky and letter 
to Joseph H Shirwin 
of the 11 October 1855 - en
[illegible] on said case.
Page 37

PENSION OFFICE, 
MARCH 25, 1853.

The following regulations, approved by the Secretary of the Interior, have been adopted for 
carrying into effect the provisions of the Act of 3d February, 1853, entitled "An act to continue  
half pay to certain widows and orphans:"

1. Under the provisions of the 1st section of this act, all widows and orphans who were granted 
and allowed five years half pay by the provisions of the act of 4 July, 1836, extended by the act 
of 21st July, 1848, and further extended by the act of 22d February, 1849, are entitled to a con
tinuance of said half pay for a further period of five years, to commence at the expiration of the 
half pay provided for by the aforesaid acts under the restrictions and limitations in the said acts 
specified. 

To obtain these benefits, the applicant must make a declaration, under oath, before some ma
gistrate in the county where the declarant resides, or before some other person qualified to adminis
ter oaths, (which declaration must be duly authenticated,) according to the form appended hereto, 
marked A.

The official character of the magistrate must be duly certified by the proper officer under his 
seal of office, and the magistrate, or other person, (qualified to administer oaths,) must certify that 
the declarant is personally known to him.

It will be observed, that in the event of the death or marriage of the widow, and where the 
application is made on behalf of a child or children under sixteen years of age, the half pay is not 
continued after such child or children shall have passed the age of sixteen.

2.  Under the last proviso of the 1st section, the widows of officers, non commissioned officers, 
musicians, and privates of the regulars, militia and volunteers of the war of 1812, who were not 
entitled by the provisions of the act of 16th April, 1816, and also in the various Indians wars since 
1790, who remained to the date of their death in the service of the United States, or who having 
received an honorable discharge, and who have died since their return to their usual place of resi
dence of wounds received, or from disease contracted while in the line of their duty, are entitled to 
receive half the monthly pay to which the deceased was entitled at the time of his death, or at the 
time of receiving such wound, or contracting such disease, for and during the term of five years, to 
commence at the time of completing the evidence in said case.

In the case there be no such widow, or in the case of her marriage or death, before the expiration of 
said five years, the half pay, or such part thereof as remains at the time of her marriage, or decease, 
will go to the minor heirs of the deceased.

In applications for these benefits, the party must make a declaration in writing before a Court 
of Record, according to the form appended hereto, marked B, and must produce proof of the ser
vice of the deceased officer or soldier; the time of his death, and that it was occasioned by wounds 
received, or from disease contracted, while in service, in the line of his duty.

If the applicant be a widow, she must prove the legality of her marriage, and that she has re
mained a widow since the death of her husband.

If the applicant be a minor child of the deceased officer or soldier, he must prove the marriage 
of his parents, their death, and his minority.

3.  Under the provisions of the 2d section, the widows of all officers, non commissioned officers, 
musicians and privates of the revolutionary army, who were married subsequent to January, A. D. 
1800, are entitled to a pension in the same manner as those who were married before that date.

In applications for the benefit of these provisions, the party must prove the service of the officer  
or soldier in whose right she claims; her marriage with such officer or soldier, and his death.

In case such officer or soldier has received a pension in his lifetime, a reference to the evidence 
filed in his application will be sufficient to prove the service.

Every applicant will make a declaration according to the form hereto appended, marked C, 
before a Court of Record, setting forth, according to the best of her knowledge or belief, the name 
and rank of the person on account of whose service the claim is asserted; the time when he entered 
and left the service; the names and rank of the officers under whom the service was performed; the 
place in which he resided when he entered the service; the time and place of his death; that she 
was lawfully joined in marriage with said officer or soldier, and that she is now a widow.

In case such officer or soldier was a pensioner, that fact should be also stated, as well as the act 
under which he was pensioned, and the agency at which he was paid.

If the applicant is unable to appear in court by reason of bodily infirmity, she may make the 
declaration before a judge or justice of a Court of Record of the county in which she resides, and 
the judge or justice shall certify that the applicant from bodily infirmity is unable to attend court.

The official character of the magistrate or other person, before whom any papers are verified, 
should be authenticated in the usual form.

L. P. WALDO, Commissioner of Pensions.

________

"A."

DECLARATION

In order to obtain the renewal of the half-pay provided for in the 1st section of the act of Feb
ruary 3d, 1853.

STATE, TERRITORY, OR DISTRICT }
OF } ss.

On this ___ day of ___, personally appeared before the ___, A. B., a resident of 
___, in the county of ___, aged ___ years, who being first duly sworn according to law, 
doth, on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision 
made by the act of Congress, passed the 3d February, 1853, granting the renewal of half-pay to
Page 38

[Printed form]
2
certain widows and orphans; that she is the widow of _______, who was a (here insert the rank the husband held, the company and regiment in which he served, and the monthly amount of the half pay which she received under the 1st section of the act of 4th July, 1836, or 21st July, 1848.)  She further declares that she is still a widow.  (Declarant's signature.)
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me  C.D., J. P.
"B." DECLARATION
In order to obtain the benefit of the last proviso of the 1st section of the act of 3rd February, 1853.  State, Territory, or District of
On this ___ day of ___, personally appeared before the _______court of the State of ______, A.B., a resident of ______, in the county of _______and State aforesaid, aged _____ 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 law of the United States, passed the 3d February, 1853; that she is the widow of ______, who was a _______in the regiment of (regulars, militia, or volunteers;) that she was married to the said ________on the ____day of ______, in the year eighteen hundred and ________; that her husband, the aforesaid__________, died on the ____ day of _____at _______, in consequence of _________; and that she has remained a widow ever since that period, as will more fully appear by reference to the proofs hereto annexed.  (Declarant's signature)  Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me --
"C" DECLARATION
In order to obtain the benefits of the 2nd section of the act of 3d February 1853
State, Territory, or District
On this ______day of _______  personally appeared before the ________court of the state of _________, A.D, a resident of ______, in the county of _________and State aforesaid, aged  ____years, who first being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 3d February, 1853, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war; that she is the widow of ________, who was a (here insert the rank the husband held in the army, &c., and specify the service performed, and the other facts described in the instructions hereto prefixed)  She further declares that she was married to the said ________on the ______day of______, eighteen hundred and ___; that her said husband died on the _____ day of________; that she was not married to him prior to the second of January, eighteen hundred, but at the time above stated.  She further declares that she is now a widow.  (Declarant's signature.)  Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before --
An Act to continue half pay to certain Widows and Orphans.  Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That all widows and orphans who were granted and allowed five years' half pay by the provisions of the act approved the twenty-first day of July, on thousand eight hundred and forty-eight, entitled "An act amending the act granting half pay to widows or orphans where their husbands or fathers have died of wounds received in the military service of the United States, in case of deceased officers and soldiers of the militia and volunteers, passed July fourth, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-six, or an act approved the twenty-second day of February, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-six," or an act approved the twenty-second day of February, one thousand eight hundred and forth-nine, entitled "An act granting five years' half pay to certain widows and orphans of officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates, both regulars and volunteers," be, and they are hereby, granted a continuance of said half pay, under like limitations and restrictions, for a further period of five years, to commence at the expiration of the half pay provided for by the aforesaid acts:  Provided, however, That in case of the death or marriage of such widow before the expiration of said term of five years, the half pay for the remainder of the term shall go to the child or children of the deceased officer or soldier whilst under the age of sixteen years; and in like manner the child or children of such deceased, when there is no widow, shall be paid not longer than while there is a child or children under the age aforesaid:  And provided further, That no greater sum shall be allowed in any case to the widow or the child or children of an officer than the half pay of a lieutenant colonel;  Provided, further, That the act approved the twenty-second of February, one thousand eight hundred and forty-nine, "granting five years' half pay to certain widows and orphans of officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates, both regular and volunteer," be so extended and construed as to embrace the widows and minor heirs of the officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates of the regulars, militia, and volunteers of the war of eighteen hundred and twelve, and of the various Indian wars since 1790.  Sec. 2 And be it further enacted, That the widows of all officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates of the revolutionary army, who were married subsequent to January, A D. eighteen hundred, shall be entitled to a pension in the same manner as those who were married before that date.  [Approved, February 2, 1858
Page 39

Act July 7, 1828.
Page 40

Pension Office, 
July 17, 1838.

The following rules, prescribed by the President of the United States, and adopted by the Secretary of War, in 
order to carry into effect the act of Congress of the 7th July, 1838, entitled "An act granting half pay and pensions 
to certain widows," are published for the information of applicants under that law.

1.  Applicants must produce the best proof the nature of the case will allow, as to the service of the deceased 
officer or soldier, and time when he died.  It must be clearly shown in what troop or company, and regiment or 
corps, he served, and the grade he held.  Proof as to service must be had, either from the records of the War De
partment, the muster rolls, the testimony of commissioned officers, or the affidavits of persons of known respectability. 
Every applicant will make a declaration according to the subjoined form before a court (a) of record, setting forth, 
according to the best of her knowledge or belief, the name and rank of the person on account of whose service the 
claim is presented; the day, month, and year, (if possible) when he entered the service, and the time when he left 
the same; and, if under more than one engagement, the claimant must specify the particular periods, and the rank 
and name of the officers under whom the service was performed; the town or county, and State, in which he resided 
when he entered the service; whether he was drafted, was a volunteer, or a substitute; the battles, if any, in which 
he was engaged; the country through which he marched, with such further particulars as may be useful in the in 
vestigation of the claim; and also, if the fact be so, that the claimant has no documentary evidence in support of 
the claim.  From the best sources of information evidence must be derived as to the period of the death (b) of the 
officer or soldier.  

2.  The legality of the marriage, and the time when it took place, must be clearly established; and it must also 
be shown that the widow was never afterwards married.  Record proof, as to the marriage, is always required when
ever it can be obtained.  In a case where the town, county, parish, or family records afford no proof as to the period 
when the marriage took place, the fact must be established by the testimony of one or more respectable persons, 
whose credibility must be certified by the officer who may administer the oath.  And, in order to prevent any mis 
take or improper use that may be made of the affidavit of an officer who may have the custody of records, from 
which he may make transcripts of the record in relation to a marriage, the officer who may give his affidavit will, 
instead of copying the figures contained in the record, certify "that it is a true copy of the record, with the excep
tion of the date, which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures, as follows:" [Here copy the day, month, 
and year, in letters and figures, in exact conformity with the original.]  Then let him add the following words"

"I, A. B., above named, depose any say, that I hold the office of  in the 
county, town, and State aforesaid, and that the above is a true extract from the records of said 
with the exception above named, as certified by me.
A. B., Clerk of the 
(or rector, or pastor, as the case may be.)

Sworn before me,
C. D., Justice of the Peace."

And then will follow the certificate of the proper officer, under his seal of office, as to the official character and 
signature of the magistrate who may administer the oath.  Where no record proof exists, other than the family 
record, the original record must be produced and sworn to by the person in whose possession it has been kept. (c)

3.  In a case where the service of the deceased officer or soldier is clearly proved by record, or documentary 
evidence, or the affidavit of a commissioned officer, showing the grade and length of service of the deceased, the par
ticulars in relation to the service are not required to be set forth in the claimant's declaration; but she must swear, 
in positive terms, that she is the widow of the person whose service is thus proved.  And no claim whatever can be 
sustained without positive proof of service.

4. In every case in which the deceased officer or soldier was a pensioner the fact should be so stated, and the 
deceased pensioner so described, as to enable the Department to refer immediately to the evidence upon which he 
was pensioned, and thus facilitate the investigation of the claim of the widow.

5.  Applicants unable to appear in court by reason of bodily infirmity may make the declaration before required 
before a judge or justice (d) of a court of record of the county in which the applicant resides, and the judge or justice 
will certify that the applicant cannot from bodily infirmity attend the court.

6.  Whenever any official act is required to be done by a judge or justice of a court of record, or by a justice of 
the peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or of the Territory, or of the proper officer or clerk of the court or 
county, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such a person is a judge or a justice of a court of record, 
or a justice of the peace, and that the signatures annexed is his genuine signature.
Page 41

2

7.  The widows of those who served in the navy, or as Indian spies, will produce proof, as nearly as may be 
conformably to the preceding regulations, and authenticated in a similar manner, with such variations as the different 
nature of the service may require.

J. L. EDWARDS, 
Commissioner of Pensions.

EXPLANATORY NOTES.

(a) The declaration of the widow who claims must be made, in all cases, in open court, unless she is prevented by bodily in
firmity from appearing before the court.
(b) It must, in all cases, be shown in what year the husband died.  The testimony on this point must be positive, and the 
language must be free from all ambiguity.
(c) The family record must be sent to the Pension Office, if there be no other record, accompanied by the oath of the person 
in whose possession it has been kept.  The person who must swear to the genuiness of the record should give the name of the 
person in whose handwriting the record was made.
(d) A declaration made before a justice of the peace cannot be admitted as evidence.

____

DECLARATION

In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of the 7th July, 1838, entitled "An act granting half pay and 
pensions to certain widows."

STATE, [TERRITORY OR DISTRICT] }
OF } ss.

On this day of 
personally appeared before the of the A. B., a resident 
of in the county of aged 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 7, 1838, entitled "An act grating half pay and 
pensions to certain widows."  That she is the widow of 
who was a [here insert the rank the husband held in the army, navy, or militia, as the case may be, and specify the 
service performed, as directed in rule numbered one of these regulations.]
She further declares that she was married to the said on the 
day of  in the year seventeen hundred and ; 
that her husband, the aforesaid died on the 
day of ; that she was not married to him prior 
to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January, seventeen hundred and ninety
four, viz., at the time above stated.  She further swears that she is now a widow, and that she has never before made 
any application for a pension.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above, written before--

____

AN ACT

Granting half-pay and pensions to certain widows.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, 
That if any person who served in the war of the revolution in the manner specified in the act passed the seventh day 
of June, eighteen hundred and thirty two, entitled "An act supplementary to the act for the relief of certain surviving 
officers and soldiers of the revolution," have died, leaving a widow, whose marriage took place after the expiration of 
the last period of his service, and before the first day of January, seventeen hundred and ninety four, such widow 
shall be entitled to receive, for and during the term of five years from the fourth day of March, eighteen hundred and 
thirty six, the annuity or pension which might have been allowed to her husband, in virtue of said act, if living at the 
time it was passed: Provided, That in the event of the marriage of such widow said annuity or pension shall be 
discontinued.

SEC. 2.  And be it further enacted, That no pledge, mortgage, sale, assignment, or transfer of any right, claim, 
or interest in any annuity, half pay, or pension, granted by this act, shall be valid; nor shall the half pay, annuity, 
or pension granted by this act, or any former act of Congress, be liable to attachment, levy, or seizure, by any process 
in law or equity, but shall ensure wholly to the personal benefit of the pensioner or annuitant entitled to the same; 
and that, before a warrant shall be delivered to any person acting for or in behalf of any one entitled to money under 
this act, such person shall take and subscribe an oath or affirmation, to be administered by the proper accounting 
officer, and put on file, that he has no interest in said money by any pledge, mortgage, transfer, agreement, under
standing, or arrangement, and that he does not know or believe that the same has been so disposed of to any other 
person.

SEC. 3.  And be it further enacted, That the Secretary of War shall adopt such regulations and forms of evidence 
in relation to applications and payments under this act, as the President of the United States may prescribe.

APPROVED July 7, 1838.
Page 42

Act February 3, 1853.
Page 43

PENSION OFFICE,  March 25, 1853
The following regulations, approved by the Secretary of the Interior, has been adopted for carrying into effect the provisions of the act of 2d February, 1853, entitled "An act to continue half-pay to certain widows and orphans:"
1.  Under the provisions of the 1st section of this act, all widows and orphans who were granted and allowed five years' half-pay by the provisions of the act of 4th July, 1836, extended by the act of 21st July, 1848, and further extended by the act of 22nd February, 1849, are entitled to a continuance of said half=pay for a further period of five years, to commence at the expiration of the half-pay provided for by the aforesaid acts, under the restrictions and limitations in the said acts specified.
To obtain these benefits, the applicant must make a declaration, under oath, before some magistrate in the county where the declarant resides, or before some other person qualified to administer oaths, (which declaration must be dully authenticated,) according to the form appended hereto, marked A.
The official character of the magistrate must be duly certified by the proper officer under his seal of office, and the magistrate, or other person, qualified to administer oaths, must certify that the declarant is personally known to him.
It will be observed, that in the event of the death or marriage of the widow, and where the application is made on behalf of a child or children under sixteen years of age, the half-pay is not continued after such child or children shall have passed the age of sixteen
2.  Under the last proviso of the 1st section, the widows of officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates of the regulars, militia, and volunteers of the war of 1812, and also in the various Indian wars since 1790, who remained to the date of their death in the service of the United States, or who having received an honorable discharge, and who have died since their return to their usual place of residence of wounds received, or from disease contracted while in the line of their duty, are entitled to receive half the monthly pay to which the deceased was entitled at the time of his death, or at the time of receiving such wounds, or contracting such disease for and during the term of five years, to commence at the time of completing the evidence in said case.
In case there be no such widow, or in case of her marriage or death before the expiration of said five years, the half-pay, or such part thereof as remains at the time of her marriage or decease, will go to the minor heirs of the deceased.
In applications for these benefits, the party must make a declaration in writing before a court of record, according to the form appended hereto, marked B, and must produce proof of the service of the deceased officer or soldier, the time of his death, and that it was occasioned by wounds received, or from disease contracted, while in service in the line of his duty.
If the applicant be a widow, she must prove the legality of her marriage, and that she is now a widow.  If the applicant be a minor child of the deceased officer or soldier, he must prove the marriage of his parents their death, and his minority
3.  Under the provisions of the 2d section, the widows of all officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates of the revolutionary army, who served six months, and who were married subsequent to January, A.D. 1800, are entitled to a pension in the same manner as those who were married before that date.
In applications for the benefit of these provisions, the party must prove the service of the officer or soldier in whose right she claims, her marriage with such officer or soldier, and his death.  In case such officer or soldier has received a pension in his lifetime, a reference to the evidence filed in his application will be sufficient to prove the service.  Every applicant will make a declaration, according to the form hereto appended, marked C, before a court of record, setting forth, according to the best of her knowledge or belief, the name and rank of the person on account of whose service the claim is asserted; the time when he entered and left the service; the names and rank of the officers under whom the service was performed; the place in which he resided when he entered the service; the time and place of his death; that she was lawfully joined in marriage with said officer or soldier, and that she is now a widow.  In case such officer or soldier was a pensioner, that fact should be also stated, as well as the act under which he was pensioned, and the agency at which he was paid.
If the applicant is unable to appear in court by reason of bodily infirmity, she may make the declaration before a judge or justice of a court of record of the county in which she resides, and such judge or justice shall certify that the applicant from bodily infirmity is unable to attend court.  The official character of the magistrate or other person before whom any papers are verified should be authenticated in the usual form.  L. P. Waldo, Commissioner of Pensions
Page 44

2

"A."

DECLARATION

In order to obtain the renewal of the half pay provided for in the first section of the act of February 3, 1853.

STATE, TERRITORY, OR DISTRICT }
of } ss:

On this ___ day of ___, personally appeared before the ___, A. B., a resident of ___, in the county 
of ___, aged ___ years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following 
declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed the 3d February, 1853, 
granting the renewal of half pay to certain widows and orphans; that she is the widow of ___, who was a (here 
insert the rank the husband held, the company and regiment in which he served, and the monthly amount of the half 
pay which she received under the 1st section of the act of 4th July, 1836, or 21st July, 1848.). She further declares 
that she is still a widow.
(Declarant's signature.)
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me.
C D, J. P.

"B."

DECLARATION

In order to obtain the benefit of the last proviso of the first section of the act of 3d February, 1853, and 5th August, 
1854.

STATE, TERRITORY, OR DISTRICT }
of } ss:

On this ___ day of ___, personally appeared before the ___ court of the State of ___, A B, a 
resident of ___, in the county of ___ and State aforesaid, aged ___ 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 law of the United States passed the 3d February, 1853; that she is the widow of ___, who was a ___ 
in the ___ regiment of (regulars, militia, or volunteers;) that she was married to the said ___ on the ___ 
day of ___, in the year eighteen hundred and ___; that her husband, the aforesaid ___, died on the ___ 
day of ___, at ___, in consequence of ___; and that she is now a widow, as will more fully appear by 
reference to the proofs hereto annexed.
(Declarant's signature.)
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me.

______

"C."

DECLARATION

In order to obtain the benefits of the second section of the act of 3d February, 1853.

STATE, TERRITORY, OR DISTRICT }
of } ss:

On this ___ day of ___, personally appeared before the ___ court of the State of ___, A D, a 
resident of ___, in the county of ___ and State aforesaid, aged ___ years, who, first being duly sworn 
according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision 
made by the act of Congress, passed on the 3d February, 1853, granting pensions to widows of persons who served 
during the revolutionary war; that she is the widow of ___, who was a (here insert the rank the husband held in 
the army, &c., and specify the service performed, and the other facts described in the instructions hereto prefixed.)
She further declares that she was married to the said ___ on the ___ day of ___, eighteen hundred 
and ___; that her said husband died on the ___ day of ___; that she was not married to him prior to 
the second of January, eighteen hundred, but at the time above stated.  She further declares that she is now a widow.
(Declarant's signature.)
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before---
Page 45

3 AN ACT To Continue Half-Pay to Certain Widows and Orphans
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That all widows and orphans who were granted and allowed five years' half-pay by the provisions of the act approved the twenty-first day of July, one thousand eight hundred and forty-eight, entitled "An act amending the act granting half pay to widow or orphans where their husbands or fathers have died of wounds received in the military service of the United States, in case of deceased officers and soldiers of the militia or volunteers, passed July fourth, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-six," or an act approved the twenty-second day of February, one thousand eight hundred and forty-nine, entitled "An act granting five years' half-pay to certain widows and orphans of officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates, both regulars and volunteers," be, and they are hereby, granted a continuance of said half-pay, under like limitations and restrictions, for a further period of five years, to commence at the expiration of the half-pay provided for by the aforesaid acts:  Provided, however, That in case of the death or marriage of such widow before the expiration of said term of five years, the half-pay for the remainder of that term shall go to the child or children of the deceased officer or soldier whilst under the age of sixteen years; and in like manner the child or children of such deceased, when there is no widow, shall be paid no longer than while there is a child or children under the age aforesaid:  An provided further, That no greater sum shall be allowed in any case to the widow or the child or children of any officer than the half-pay of a lieutenant colonel:  Provided further, That the act approved the twenty-second of February, one thousand eight hundred and forty-nine "granting five years' half-pay to certain widows and orphans of officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates, both regular and volunteer," be so extended and construed as to embrace the widows and minor heirs of the officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates of the regulars, militia, and volunteers of the war of eighteen hundred and twelve, and of the various Indian wars since seventeen hundred and  ninety.
Sec. 2.  And be it further enacted, That the widows of all officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates of the revolutionary army who were married subsequent to January, AD. eighteen hundred, shall be entitled to a pension in the same manner as those who were married before that date.  Approved February 3, 1853
Page 46

[Written vertically top margin]
Copy

Declaration of Mary Brierly 
for pension under Act. July 3 1853.

D
Page 47

State of Kentucky }
County of Bracken } SS:

On this 27th day of August 
personally appeared before the Bracken County 
Court of the State of Kentucky Mary Brierly 
a resident of the County and State aforesaid 
aged 87 years who first being 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 on the 3d of Feb.
1853, granting pensions to widows and 
persons who served during the Revolutionary 
War.  That she is the widow of George 
Brierly who was a Revolutionary soldier 
and who [struck out: served] applied for a pension 
about the year 1834, under the act 
of June 7th 1832, and was at that 
time placed upon the Pension List at the 
rate of $20. per annum.  She further 
declares that she was married to the 
said George Brierly on the 27th day of 
March 1811; that her said husband died 
on the 30th of September eighteen hundred 
and thirty five; that she was not married 
to him prior to the second day of January 1800, but 
at the time above stated.  She further declares that she 
is now a widow. [word Signed encircled] Mary her X mark Brierly
Sworn to subscribed on the day and year above written 
before the Bracken County Court.  John Schoolfield, P.J. B. C. Ct.
Page 48

State of Kentucky
County of Bracken }SS
On the 29th day of August A.D. 1855, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County & State aforesaid Mary Brierly aged 87 years, a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky on her being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of George Brierly, who served in the war of the Revolution and who recd a pension for one year or more previous to his death.  She further states that the she was married to the said George Brierly in Mason County Kentucky on the 27th day of March A.D. 1817 by one     Wilson a preacher of the gospel and that her name before her said marriage was Mary Garrison, that her marriage is not recorded in the clerk's office of Mason County Kentucky; in consequence as of the negligence of said Wilson who failed to return a certificate of marriage; that her said husband died in Bracken County  Kentucky, on the 20th day of Sept. A. D. 183 and that she is now a widow.  She makes this declaration for the purpose of claiming the Bounty Land which she may be entitled under the act of March 3, 1855.  Signed Mary Brierly her mark
Page 49

Mr. Joseph Dryden and Jeremiah Linville of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and and acknowledges by Mary Breirly in our presence and that we believe from the appearance and statements of the applicant that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
Signed Joseph D. Dryden
Jeremiah Linville
mark

Justice Certificate

State of Kentucky }
County of Bracken } SS:
On this 29th day of August A.D. 1855 personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace within and for the County & State aforesaid William B. Cooper aged 39 years, a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky and being truly sworn according to law, declare that he was personally acquainted with the aforesaid George Brierly, and that he has been and is now acquainted with the aforesaid Mary Brierly; that they were married on or about the 27th day of March 1811, in the County of Mason and State of Kentucky,
Page 50

that he was present when they were married, and knows that they were lawfully married, and knows that they lived together as husband and wife, and was so presented from the time of their marriage until the time of his death. He further states that he knows that the aforesaid George Brierly was a Revolutionary Pensioner and that the aforesaid Mary Brierly is his widow.
Signed W B Cooper

(Certificate of Just Peace)

State of Kentucky }
County of Bracken } SS:

On this 29th day of August A.D. 1855, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, in and for the County & State aforesaid William S. Curtis and Jeremiah Linville, residents of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky, who being duly sworn according to law, declare that they were personally acquainted with the aforesaid George Brierly, that they know that he died on the 30th day of September 1855 and that the aforesaid Mary Brierly is his widow.
his mark Wm S Curtis
his mark Jeremiah Linville
Signed
(Certified by Justice of Peace)
Page 51

State of Kentucky 
County of Bracken} SS
On this 29th day of August A.D. 1855 personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace within and for the County & State aforesaid.  That Thos. Cumber aged 62 years a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky who being duly sworn according to law declares that he was formally acquainted with the aforesaid George Brierly and Mary Briarly from about the time of their marriage until the time of his death, and that he knows that they lived together as husband and wife and were so [illegible] during the whole period of that acquaintance.  He also declares that he knows that the aforesaid George Briarly was at or about the time stated in the foregoing declaration and that the aforesaid Mary Briarly is his widow.  Signed Thomas Cumber  Certificate of J.P.  Certificate of Clerk of Bracken Co. Court
Page 52

Benj G. Willlis
October 2, 1834'
C
Page 53

Brooksville Ky.  Oct. 2, 1834
L. P. Waldo
Sir  Enclosed I send you the papers forwarded to me by you for my inspection.  I believe I signed the certificate you suppose to be a forgery.  I have some recollection of the circumstances under which it was signed and think the reason it is so dissimilar to my other signature is from the fact that I was standing up and wrote it stooping over at a small candle stand.  I have made some inquiries of persons who were present and they say that Jones was there on the day I took the affidavits & thinks that Mrs. Briarly is acting in good faith with the Department.  I will make further investigations of this matter and will inform you about anything I may deem wrong and will at any time give any assistance in my power to you in regard to this or any other matter of the kind.  Very respectfully, yours Ben G. Willis
Page 54

Declaration of Mary Briarly for pension under Act of Febry 3, 1833
D
Page 55

State of Kentucky}
County of Bracken
On this 27th day of August personally appeared before the Bracken County Court of the State of Kentucky, Mary Brierly a resident of the County and State aforesaid, aged eighty seven years, who first being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the Act of Congress, passed on the 3rd day of February 1853 granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the revolutionary war; that she is the widow of George Brierly who was a revolutionary soldier, and who applied for a pension about the year 1834, under the Act of June 7th 1832 and was at that time placed upon the pension list at the rate of twenty dollars per annum.  She further declares that she was married to the said George Briefly on the 27th day of March eighteen hundred and eleven that her said husband died on the 30th of September eighteen hundred and thirty five; that she was not married to him prior to the second day of January eighteen hundred;, but at the time above stated.  She further declares that she is now a widow.  Mary Brierly her mark x
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before the Bracken County Court  John Schoolfield, J.J B. C. [illegible[
Page 56

State of Kentucky}  SS
County of Bracken
On this 28th day of August A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid, Mary Brierly, aged eighty seven years, a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky, who being duly sworn according to law declares that she is the widow of George Brierly deceased, who served in the war of the Revolution, and who drew a pension for one year or more previous to his death  She further states that she was married to the said George Brierly in Mason County Kentucky on the 27th day of March A.D. 1811 by one                Wilson, a preacher of the gospel, and that her name before her said marriage was Mary Garrison; that her marriage is not recorded in the clerk's office of Mason County Kentucky in consequence of the negligence of said Wilson who failed to return a  certificate of the marriage; that her said husband died in Bracken County Kentucky on the 30th day of September AD. 1835, and that she is so a widow.  She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which she may be entitled under the Act approved March 3, 1855.  Mary Brierly  her mark x
Page 57

We, Joseph Dryden and Jeremiah Linvill, residents of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky, upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Mary Brierly in our presence; and that we believe from the appearances and statements of the applicant that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
Joseph D. Dryden Jeremiah Linvill, his mark x
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above [before] written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person she represents herself to, and that I have no interest in this claim.  Jno D. Gough
State of Kentucky } SS
County of Bracken
On this 29th day of August A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid, William B. Cooper, aged fifty nine years, a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he was personally acquainted with the aforesaid George Brierly and that he has been, and is now acquainted, with the aforesaid Mary Brierly; that they were married on or about the 27th day of March 1811 in the County of Mason and State of Kentucky, that he was present when they were married, and knows that
Page 58

they were lawfully married; and that he knows that they lived together as husband and wife and were so reputed for over the time of their marriage until the time of his death.  He further states that he knows that the aforesaid George Brierly was a Revolutionary pensioner and that the aforesaid Mary Brierly is his widow.  W. B Cooper 
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year before written; and I certify that the said William B. Cooper is a credible witness and that full credit is due to his testimony.  Jno D. Gough J.P.
State of Kentucky } SS
County of Bracken
On this 29th day of August A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid, William S. Curtis and Jeremiah Linvill, residents of Bracken County in the state of Kentucky who being duly sworn according to law declare that they were personally acquainted with the aforesaid George Brierly; that they know that he died on the 30th day of September eighteen hundred and thirty five, and that the aforesaid Mary Brierly is his widow.  William S. Curtis  his mark x Jeremiah Linvill his mark x
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written by Wm. S. Curtis and Jeremiah Linvill and I certify that the said
Page 59

Wm S Curtis and Jeremiah Linvill are credible witnesses and that their testimony is entitled to full credit.  Jno D. Gough J. P.
State of Kentucky } SS
County of Bracken
On this 29th day of August AD. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County and State aforesaid, Thomas Cumber, aged sixty two years, a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that he was personally acquainted with the aforesaid George Brierly and Mary Brierly from about the time of their marriage until the time of his death, and that he knows that they lived together as husband and wife and were so reputed during the whole period of that acquaintance  He also declares that he knows that the aforesaid George Brierly died at or about the time stated in the foregoing declarations and that the aforesaid Mary Brierly is his widow.  Thomas Cumber
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written and I certify that the said Thomas Cumber is a credible witness and that full credit is due to his testimony.  Jno D. Gough J. P.
Page 60

State of Kentucky
County of Bracken Set.
I, Richd J. Hughey, Clerk of the County Court for the County aforesaid do certify that John Schoolfield Esq. whose name appears to the foregoing certificate [crossed out words] was at the time of signing the same the presiding Judge of the Bracken County Court, duly qualified and acting as such according to the Statute in such case made and provided; he being a Justice of the Peace, and Joseph Doniphan Esq., the presiding Judge of said Court, being absent from the State of Kentucky, that his signature is in his genuine hand writing, and that full faith and credit are and ought to be given to all of his official acts.  That John D. Gough Esq whose signature appears to the several foregoing certificates is and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, duly commissioned and qualified according to law, that his signature to the several certificates is in his genuine hand writing and that full faith and credit are and ought to be given to all of his official acts.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Brookville this 29th day of August 1855  Rich. J Hughey, Clk  Bracken County Court
Page 61

Joseph H Sherwin; agent
Neville
Vermont - Co
Ohio
Page 62

W.M. Frank
Aug. 18. 1854.
Page 63

State of Kentucky }  SS
Mason County 
On this 18th day of August, 1854 before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State above named, personally appeared Wm Fonk a resident at Bracken County in the State of Kentucky, who being duly sworn by me declares that he lived the neighbor of and was well acquainted with James Jones who has heretofore given his affidavit in the claim of Mary Brierly widow of George Brierly to enable her to obtain a pension.  That said James Jones is now dead, he died he thinks on the 16th day of July 1854, at least it was near that time and he was at his funeral and burial which took place in the County of Bracken in the State of Kentucky as above stated.  He also swears he has no interest in testifying in this case.  Signed W. Fonk  Certified by J. P. & Cl'k of Court
Page 64

W. M. Frank
August. 18. 1854.
Page 65

State of Kentucky }  SS
Mason County
On this 18th day August 1854 before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State above named personally appeared William Fronk, a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky, who being duly sworn b me declares that he lived the neighbor of and was well acquainted with James Jones, who has heretofore given his affidavit in the claim of Mary Brierly widow of George Brierly to enable her to obtain a pension.  That said James Jones is now dead, he died he thinks on the 16th day of July 1854, at least it was near that time, and he was at his funeral and burial which took place in the County of Bracken in the State of Kentucky as above stated.  He also swears he has no interest in testifying in this case.
W. Fronk
Sworn to and subscribed before me this day and [illegible] above written.  And I certify that William Fronk is a credible witness.  I also certify that I have no interest in this claim whatever.  H.S. Jefferson J P M.C.
I Robert A Cochran, Clerk of Mason County Court do hereby certify that Henry S. Jefferson Esq. before whom the foregoing affidavit was made was who has thereunto inscribed his name - was at the time of so doing an acting justice of the peace in and for the County and State above named, duly commissioned and sworn that his signature thereto is genuine.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name on this 2nd day of September 1854 and affixed the seal of said Court.  Robert A. Cochran Clerk
Page 66

Affidt of Wm S. Curtis 8th Aug 1854
Page 67

State of Kentucky } SS
Mason County
On this 8th day of August 1854, before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County and State personally appeared Wm. T. Curtis a resident of Bracken County in the State aforesaid who being duly sworn, declares that he is the same Wm. T. Curtis who has heretofore made affidavit and was on file at Washington D.C. with the papers of Mary Brierly, widow of Geo. Brierly who was a pensioner of the US on the Ky Roll at the rate of $20 per annum, and who died the 30th day of September 1835, and he further states that he is informed that the Department have doubts as to the date of George Brierly's death and he now again states what he knows to be true, that is not and cannot be mistaken in the date of George Brierly's death, that he does not know or care what the statement of any other person may be in regard to said death, that knows it took place and had to on the 30th day of September 1835.  He knows it from two events, and thinks they are both satisfactory, 1st he knows it was on the 30th day of September succeeding Wm T. Curtis' marriage, and the same year the certificate of his marriage being on file in the claim of Mrs. Brierly to which he refers again as corroboration of what he states.   He knew Geo. Brierly well, was his neighbor, and recollects distinctly the event of his death and funeral, and the death made a very serious impression on his mind at the time on the date of said
Page 68

death, by remembering it was on the last day of September succeeding his said marriage.  Another circumstance why he knows the date is this; the Cholera first made its appearance in his section of the State of Ky in the year 1832, it again visited same section in 1833 and in 1834 there were a few cases, but in the year 1835 there was no cholera and it was that year that George Brierly died and he states that he called to  mind the date of the death by that event and by these two events he is positive he cannot be mistaken in the date of his death.  He further states that for many years he has known and been intimately acquainted with Mary Brierly, both during the lifetime of George, as his wife, and since his death as his widow, which she still remains and he cannot doubt knowing the facts of the case as he does  that her claim is a meritorious one and she ought to have it.  she has almost become a beggar thereon exists on the charity of others without any support , with few very few years to live, the widow of one of the Fathers of our liberty.  In view of these facts he thinks justice and humanity demand from the Country the poor pittance due her for the foils, dangers and privations of her husband in that war which gave to a hemisphere freedom and to the world an asylum.  He also swears that he has no interest in this claim directly or indirectly nor is he in any way interested in the
Page 69

Prosecution thereof
Wm. S. Curtis his mark x
signed
Alles/\Isaac S. Reed
Jemeur Linvill 
Certified by Clerk & J.P.
Page 70

Affidavit
Wm. S. Curtis
8th Aug. 1854
Page 71

State of Ky. }
Mason County } Ss.

On this 8 day of August 1854 
before me, a Justice of the peace in and for said 
County and State, personally appeared William S. Curtis 
a resident of Bracken County in the State aforesaid 
who being duly sworn, declares that he is the same 
William S Curtis, who has heretofore made affidavit 
and now on file at Washington D. C. with the papers 
of Mary Brierly, widow of George Brierly, who was 
a pensioner of the United States on the Ky roll 
at the rate of $20. per annum, and who died the 
30th day of September 1835, and he further states 
that he is informed that the department have doubts 
as to the date of said George Brierly death and 
he now again states what he knows to be true, that 
he is not, and cannot be mistaken in the date of 
George Brierly's death, that he does not know or 
care what the statement of any other person may be in 
regard to said death, that knows it took place 
and that too, on the 30th day of September 1835.

He knows it from two events and thinks they are both 
satisfactory. 1st-he knows it was on the 30th day of Septem 
succeeding his (Curtis) marriage and the same year 
(the Certificate of his marriage being on file in the claim 
of Mrs Brierly to which he refers again as corroboration 
of what he states). He knew George Brierly well, even his 
neighbors, and recollects distinctly the events of the death,  
decd burial, and the death made a very serious 
impression on his mind at the time, and took parti
cular notice to the date, and could always call to 
mind, and has frequently so since, the date of said 
death, by remembering that it was on the last day 
of September succeeding his said marriage. 
Another circumstance why he knows the date is
Page 72

the cholera first made its appearance in his section of 
[repeated: of] the State of Ky. in the year 1832, it again visited [illegible]
section 1833, and in 1834, there were a few cases, but 
in the year 1835 there was no cholera and it was that 
year that George Brierly died and he states that he has 
called to mind the date of the death by that event also 
and by those two events he is positive he cannot be 
mistaken in the date of his death.

He further states that for many years he has known 
and been intimately acquainted with Mary Brierly, both 
during the lifetime of George, as his wife and since 
his death, as his widow, which she still remains. 
And he cannot doubt knowing the facts of the case [repeated: of the 
case] as he does, that her claim is a meritorious one, and 
she ought to have it.  She has almost become a beggar 
thrown entirely on the charity of others, without any 
support, but few, very few years to live, the widow 
of one of the fathers of our liberty, in view of these 
facts, he thinks justice and humanity [illegible] 
from her country the poor pittance due her for 
the toils, dangers and [illegible] of her husband 
in that war, which gave to a hemisphere freedom 
and to the world an [illegible]

He also swears that he has no interest in 
this claim directly or indirectly, or is he interested 
in any way in the prosecution thereof.
Attest 
Isaac S Reed | William his X mark Curtis [word Seal encircled]
Jemeur Linvill

Sworn to and subscribed before me this the day 
and date first above written And I also certify that 
the said William S Curtis is a man of truth and respect
ability, and ought to be believed. I also certify that 
I have no interest in this claim and am no way con
cerned in its prosecution.
Isaac S Reed J. P. M. C.
Page 73

State of Ky Mason County

I, Robert A. Cochran Clerk of the Mason 
County Court, do hereby certify that Issac S. Reed 
Esqr before whom the foregoing affidavit was 
made and who has thereto subscribed his name 
was at the time of so doing an acting Justice 
of the peace, in and for the County and State 
above named, duly commissioned and sworn 
and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto 
subscribed my name and affixed 
the seal of my [repeated: of my] office. Done 
at office in the city of Maysville 
on this 11th day of August 1854
Robert A. Cochran Clk
Page 74

Afftd
Mary Brierly
July 15/54
Page 75

State of Kentucky } 
Mason County } SS:

On this 15th day of July 
A.D. 1854 before me a Justice of the Peace 
in & for the County & State above named 
personally came Mary Brierly, widow 
of George Brierly, deceased, who was 
a Revolutionary Pensioner at the 
rate of $20. per annum, who first 
being duly sworn states that she has 
been informed the Department has doubts 
of the validity of her claim because 
she has made different statements 
in regard to her age, the date of her 
husbands death and the rate at 
which he was pensioned &c.  And 
first she says the reason why she 
stated that she believed her husband 
was a pensioner at the rate of $96. 
per annum, was because she 
always understood that he was 
a private in the service, and that 
she always believed and was told 
that all privates were entitled to $96. 
per year, no more or less, and 
she did not know any better until 
informed by those who knew. 
Secondly, she had no record 
of her husband's death and relied 
entirely on her own memory as to 
the date, and that being very frail 
she could not tell the year with 
certainty, but believed it to be 1833, 
but the month and day she did 
remember certain and was not 
mistaken in, and on reflection
Page 76

after, and by the time of the cholera and 
also by having a conversation with 
Mr Curtis she was able to fix the whole 
date, to wit, Sept. 30th 1835. 
And thirdly and lastly, she was first 
mistaken in her own age and told 
it to the best of her recollection, 
because she kept no record 
of it and cannot read or write 
but after seeing an old school 
mate of hers who came to visit 
her in Kentucky and who had a 
better memory, he convinced her 
that she was of the age last stated 
by her to wit: 93 years; and 
she now states respectly [respectfully] to the 
Department that she is confident 
the foregoing facts are true, the times 
and facts stated in her last dec
laration are correct.  She 
also states her claim is just 
and the few mistakes heretofore 
made by herself and witnesses 
are not intentional but the fault of
memory, frail memory, and 
being poor and friendless with one 
foot on time and the other in 
eternity, the widow of a soldier of 
that war which resulted in the 
achievement of our Liberties and in 
the name of humanity she humbly 
claims that small pittance due her 
by her country.
Attest
Isaac S Reed } [word Signed encircled] Mary her X mark Brierly [LS encircled]
Joseph D. Dryden } (Certified by J. P. & Cl'k of Court)
Page 77

R. A. Ridgell
Page 78

Know all men by these presents, That I, George Brierly 
of Nicholas Cty Ky Revolutionary [a] Pensioner of the United States, do hereby 
constitute and appoint Joseph FIcklin my true and lawful Attorney, for me, and in my 
name to receive from the Agent of the United States, for paying pensions in Lexington, State of Kentucky, 
my pension from the 4th day of March 1835 to the 4th day of Sept 1835
WITNESS my hand and seal, this 12th day of September 1835
Sealed and delivered } George his X mark Brierly [word SEAL in a box]
in presence of }
William J Lawson
James Bratton 
Nimrod Ashcroft

[Written vertically left margin]
Joseph [illegible]

State of Kentucky, }
Nicholas County. } SS.

BE IT KNOWN, That on the 12th day of September 1835 before the subscriber, a Jus
tice of the peace in and for said county, personally appeared George Brierly above 
named, and acknowledged the foregoing Power of Attorney to be his act and deed.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
William J Lawson J. P.

State of Kentucky, Nicholas County, Sct.

I, John G. Parks Clerk of the Court of Nicholas County, certify 
that William J. Lawson is and was on the 12th day of September last, 
a Magistrate as above; and that the foregoing signature 
purporting to be his, is genuine.  IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto affixed my Seal of office, and sub
scribed my name, this 7th day of October in the year 1835
[Blurred seal of office] J. G. Parks
Clerk of the Court of Nicholas County.
Page 79

State of Kentucky
Nicholas County

Be it know that before me William Lawson a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid , permeantly appeared George Brisly of the said county of Nicholas, and made oath in due form of law, that he is the identical person named in an original certificate in his possession of which I certify the following is a true copy.
War department Revolutionary Clarin I certify that in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June 1832 George Brisly was a private in the army of the Revolution is entitled to receiver twenty dollars and cents per annum during his natural life commencing on the 4th of March 1831 and payable service annually on the 4th of March and 4th of September in every year given at the war office of the United States this Twelfth day of April one thousand eight hundred and thirty three
Escannsured and countersigned
D L Edwards
Commissioner of pensions
Lewis Cars
Secretary of War
that he now resides in Nicholas County of Kentucky and has resided there for the 
the space of Nine years past, and that previous thereto resided in Mason County Kentucky
Sworn an subscribed this 12th day of September 1835 before me 
William J Lawson J. P.
Page 80

State of Kentucky } SS
Mason County
On this 15th day of July A.D. 1854, before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and state above named personally came Mary Brierly, widow of George Brierly died, who was a revolutionary pensioner at the rate of twenty dollars per annum, who first being duly sworn, states that she has been informed the Department has doubts of the validity of her claim because she has made deficient statements in regard to her age, the date of her husband's death, and the rate at which he was pensioned.  And first she says the reason why she stated that she believed her husband was a pensioner at the rate of $96 per annum, was because she always understood that he was a private in the service, and that she always believed and was told that all privates were entitled to $96 per year, no more or less and she did not know any better until informed by those who knew.  Secondly, she had no record of her husband's death, and relied entirely on her own memory as to the date and that being very frail she could not tell the year with certainty, but believed it to be 1833 but the month and day of the month she did remember certain and was not mistaken on, and on reflection after; and by the time of the cholera and also by having a conversation with Mr. Curtis, she was able to find the whole date, to wit, Sept. 30th 1835.  And thirdly and lastly, she was first mistaken in her own age and told it to the best of her recollection because she kept no record of it and cannot read or write, but after an old schoolmate of hers came to visit her in Ky and who had a better memory, [page is creased] he convinced her that she was the age last stated by her, to wit 93 years.  And she now respectfully states to the Department that she is confident
Page 81

the foregoing facts are true, the time's and facts stated 
in her last declaration are correct.  She also states her 
claim is just, and the few mistakes heretofore made by her 
self and witnesses were not intentional, but the fault of mem
ory, frail memory, and being poor and friendless, with one foot 
in time, the other in eternity, the widow of a soldier of that 
war which resulted in the achievements of our liberties and 
in the name of humanity she humbly claims that small 
pittance due her by her country.
Attest
Isaac S. Reed | Mary her X mark Brierly [word Seal encircled]
Joseph D Dryden

Sworn to and subscribed before me this the day and date 
first above written. And I certify that I believe her statem
ents to be true, and have the fullest confidence in her statem
ents as being correct, true and honest. I also certify I have 
no interest in this claim.  Isaac S. Reed J. P.

State of Kentucky Mason County Sct.

I Robert A Cochran Clerk of the 
Mason County Court, do hereby certify that Isaac S. Reed 
Esqr before whom the foregoing affidavit was made 
and who has thereunto subscribed his name, was at the 
time of so doing an acting Justice of the peace in and 
for the County and State above named duly commissioned 
and sworn and his signature thereto is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto 
subscribed my name and affixed 
the seal of Mason County on this 
18th day of July 1854.
Robt A. Cochran Clerk

[Written vertically left margin]
Affidavit of Mary Brierly 
July 15/54
Page 82

Affidt of
George Brierly Jr.
12th May 1854
Page 83

State of Kentucky
Mason County
On this 12th day of May A.D. 1854 before the undesigned a Justice of  the Peace in and for the said County personally appeared George Brierly, Jr. & made oath according to law that he is the same George Brierly  who made an affidavit on to 25th of March last to be war filed with the claim of his mother, Mary Brierly for Revolutionary Pension and that he is informed that the Pension Office  objects to said affidavit because it does not state how he knows he was twenty one years old in April
1815, and therefore be now (illegible) Swears
that he knows it from the fact that at
the time of the news of the Battle of
New Orleans being received in Kentucky an event causing great joy throughout the nation. He well remembers that like most other 
Young men he was looking forward
with interest to the following first day
April when he should be twenty one years of age and is entitled to all the priviledges of a man as his parents George & Mary Brierly
always told him that they were married
in March or April 1793 and that I was born on the first day of April 1794, which he had no reason to doubt as it was so understood and 
acknowledged by the neighbors ever since
he was a small boy, and heard conversation
relation to this marriage
Page 84

and his birth, such as are common 
in every neighborhood; and he 
cannot be mistaken in the year 
he became twenty one because 
the battle of New Orleans cannot 
be forgotten in Kentucky by 
persons of his age, and because 
history fixed it as having ocurred [occurred] 
in January 1815 beyong all question. 
The deponent also swears he has 
always kept the same account of 
his own age, having no earthly 
reason to suppose that his 
parents could possible [possibly] be mistaken 
as to their marriage and his birth 
having taken place at the times 
above mentioned, and that he 
varily [verily] believes, as much as he 
believes anything that he has 
not seen, that he was sixty years 
of age on the 1st day of April 
last (1854).
George his X mark Brierely Jr

(Certified by Just Peace)
Page 85

State of Kentucky
Mason County SS
On this 12th day of May A.D. 1854 personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace
Thomas Cumber and Joseph D
Dryden Known to me as respectable
Citizens of this County and having heard
me made the foregoing affidavit of
George Brierly depose and say that they have known said George for forty years past and believe his statements to be true, and
although it is difficult to judge the precise age of any man they believe he is sixty years
old as he states, and that they 
are not interested in said claim
Thomas Cumber
Joseph D. Dryden
Certificate of Clerk of Court
& J. P.
Page 86

Affidavit
Geo. Brierly Jr.
25th March 1854
Page 87

State of Kentucky Mason County, Sct:

On this 25th day of March 
A.D. 1854, before me a Justice of the Peace 
within and for the County & State above named, 
personally appeared George Brierly, Jr. 
a credible and disinterested witness, who 
being duly sworn by me and now 
resides in the County of Bracken 
in the State of Kentucky, declares that 
he is a son of George Brierly, Senr, 
and Mary Brierly, whose father has 
heretofore been a pensioner at the 
rate of $20. per annum, on the 
Kentucky Roll, and whose mother 
Mary Brierly has made application 
for pension because of the services of 
her husband in the war of the 
Revolution.  That he was always 
told by his parents that they were 
married sometime in the spring 
of the year "1793."  He thinks in the 
months either of March or April 
and he is satisfied that they were 
married during the year "1793," for 
this reason, because he (said Geo. Brierly Jr.) 
was born on the 1st day of April 1794 
in the County of Mason in the State of 
Kentucky and states that he has no record 
of his, but knows he was twenty one 
years of age in the month of April 
of the same year succeeding the 
victory at New Orleans by General 
Jackson and knows he was then 
twenty one years of age by the circumstances 
of said battle.  

He also states that his father
Page 88

is dead, that his mother is said Mary Brierly  has remained a widow ever since the death of his father and that she is still a widow and resides in the County of Bracken in the State of Kentucky at this time.  He also swears he has no interest in this claim.
Signed George Brierly, Jr. his mark x
Attest 
Joseph Dryden
H.S. Jefferson
Page 89

Affidavit
George Brierly Jr.
25th of March 1854
Page 90

State of Kentucky Mason County Set.
On this 25th day of March AD. 1854, before me a Justice of the peace, in and for the County and State above named, personally appeared George Brierly Jr a credible and disinterested witness, who being duly sworn
by me, and who resides in the County of Bracken in the State of Kentucky declares, that he is a son of George Brierly son and Mary Brierly- whose father has heretofore been a pensioners, at the rate of twenty dollars per annum, on the Kentucky roll, and
whose mother Mary Brierly, has made application for pension because of the services of her husband in the war of the revolution, that he was always told by his presents, that they were marred some time in the spring of the years " 1793, he thinks in the months either of March or April; and he is satisfied
they were married during the year 1793 for this reason because, he said (George Brierly Ms.) was born on the 1st day of April 1794 in the County of Mason in the State of Ky
and states that he he has no record of his age
but knows he was twenty one years of age, in the month of April of the same year, succeeding the victory at New Orleans, by General Jackson and swears he was then twenty one years of age, by the circumstance of said battle.
He also states that his father is dead, that his
mother the said Mary Brierly, has remained a widow  since the death of his fathers, and that
she is still a widow, and resides in the County of Bracken in the State of Ky at this time
He also swears he has no interest in this claim
George Brierly  his mark
Attest 
Joseph Dryden
H S Jerrerson


Sworn to before me by said George Brierly on this the
Page 91

day and date first shown written.  And I certify that he is a truthful land respectable man and worthy of belief.  I also certify that I know no interest in the claim and am no way concerned in the prosecution thereof  Henry S. Jerrerson J.P. M.C.
State of Ky Mason County Set
Robert A Cochran clerk of the Mason County Court do hereby certify that Henry S. Jefferson Esq before whom the foregoing affidavit was made, and who has thereunto subscribed his name, was at the time of so doing an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid duly commissioned and sworn and that his signature thereto is genuine.  On testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal of office  - [illegible] City of Maryville on this the 27th day of March 1854  Robt A. Cochran Clr
Page 92

Affidavit of Geo. D. Dry
Wm B Cooper
11 Feb. 1854
Page 93

State of Kentucky }  SS :
Mason County
On this 11th day of Feb. A.D. 1854 before me personally came Joseph D. Dryden and Wm B. Cooper residents of Bracken County Kentucky who (I certify) are credible and disinterested witnesses who being duly sworn by me, according to law, declare that they are well acquainted with Geo. Brierly, Jr., son of George Brierly Sr. and Mary Brierly.  That they have known him for more than fifty years and that he is a truthful man, and that his statement ought to be regarded as true, as he has the reputation of a truthful and honest by all who knew him.  They also declare that they knew George Brierly Sen in his lifetime, that he was a pensioner in his lifetime and always recognized George Brierly, Jr as his son and that they know said Mary Brierly at this time, that she is the lawful widow of the said George Brierly and is so recognized by all who knew them and they have no doubt of the fact.  They also declare that from the appearance of George Brierly, Jr they have every reason to believe he is of the age stated by him in his affidavit.  They also swear they are disinterested witnesses.  Signed Joseph D. Dryden (LS) Wm B Cooper (LS)
Attest D. J. Mitchell
Attest Wm S Braden
Certified by J. P. & Clk Ct.
Page 94

State of Kentucky } SS
Mason County
On this 11th day of February A.D. 1854 before me personally came, Joseph D. Dryden and William B. Cooper residents of Bracken County Kentucky, who (I certify) are credible and disinterested witnesses, who being duly sworn by me according to law, declare that they are well acquainted with, George Brierly Jr. son of George Brierly died, and Mary Brierly.  That they have known him for more than fifty years, and that he is a truthful man and that his statements ought to be regarded as true as he has the reputation of a truthful and honest man by all who know him.
They also declare, that they knew Geroge Brierly Sen. in his lifetime, that he was a pensioner in his lifetime and always recognized George Brierly Jr. as his son, and that they know said Mary Brierly at this time that she is the lawful widow of said George Brierly Sen. died, and is living at this time in Bracken County Kentucky and she is the lawful widow of said George Brierly and is recognized by all who know them and they have no doubt of the fact.
They also declare that from the appearance of George Brierly Jr. they have every reason to believe he is of the age stated by him in his affidavit.  They also know they are disinterested witnesses.  Joseph D. Dryden, (L.S.) Wm B. Cooper [illegible] (L.S.)
Attest D.T. Mitchell
Attest Wm S Bridges
Sworn to and subscribed before me this
Page 95

day and date first shown written.  And I certify that they are credible witnesses.  I also certify that I have no interest in this claim and am no way concerned its prosecutions.  Samuel W. Wood J. P. M. C.
I also certify that the word "Appearance" inserted in the foregoing declaration, was so written as it thereon appears before the decree was signed sworn to or certified.
State of Kentucky Mason County Setes
I Robert A. Cochran Clerk of the County Court of Mason County Ky do hereby certify that Samuel W. Wood Esq. before whom the foregoing affidavit was made and who thereunto subscribed his name was at the time of so doing an acting Justice of Peace in and for the County and State shown named, duly commissioned and sworn and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of my office on this the 11th day of February 1854.  Robt A. Cochran Clk
Affidavit of Geo D. Dry Wm B. Cooper 11th Feby 1854
Page 96

Affidavit of Geo. Brierly 
9 Feb. 1854

(B)
Page 97

State of Kentucky } SS
Mason County
On this 9th day of February A.D. 1854 before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County & State above named personally came George Brierly Jr. a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky a credible and disinterested witness who being duly sworn according to law declares that he is the son of George Brierly Sen. dse & Mary Brierly.  That he was born in the County of Mason, in the State of Kentucky on the 1st day of April   (1794) seventeen hundred ninety four.  He also states that he has no record of his birth, but knows his age from the following facts:  When war was declared by the United States against Great Britain on the 18th day of June 1812, he was then 18 years of age, and was one of a Company who drew lots to serve in said war, and drew a blank and therefore had not to go.  He also declares that his father was married to his said mother as he has always been told by them sometime in the spring of the year 1793.  He also declares that his father was a pensioner in his lifetime on the Kentucky Roll at the rate of $20 per annum.  That Mary Brierly is his lawful widow and has remained a widow ever since the death of his father and is now a widow and resides in the County of Bracken in the State of Kentucky at this time.  He also swears he is a disinterested  witness. George Brierly (L.S.) his mark x
Attest 
Jno N. Jefferson } Signed
Henry Young      }
Certified by Just. Peace & Clerk of Court
Page 98

Affidt of
James Cleny & John Mann
Feb. 1, 1854
Page 99

State of Kentucky }  SS
Mason County
On this 1st day of Feb. A.D. 1854 before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County & State aforesaid personally came James Cleny and John Mann credible and disinterested witnesses who being duly sworn declare they are well acquainted with James Jones who has heretofore made affidavit to enable Mary Brierly widow of George Brierly to obtain pension for the service of her husband in the War of the Revolution.  They were present when he made his affidavit in said case and they were his neighbors and served him well.  That he was a truthful man and had that reputation by all his neighbors and acquaintances, but that is now dead, and died on the 29th day of December A. D. 1853.  That a short time before his death they saw him have a book containing the marriage of Geo. Brierly and Mary Garrison.  That they are not positive as to the exact date of that marriage but felt almost confident that it was entered in said Book to have taken place sometime in the year seventeen hundred and ninety three (1793). That said James Jones lived with his son William Jones, who since the death of his father has left the State of Kentucky, they have been informed
Page 100

for "Texas" that he has taken with him all the property and effects (which was very little) that belonged to his father James Jones, dse. and they presume also, the book containing the entry of said marriage as it cannot be found since he left, due search having been made therefore.  They also swear they are disinterested witnesses.
(Signed)_ James Cleny (L.S.) John Mann (L.S.)
Page 101

State of Kentucky
Mason County
On this 5 day of Nov 1853 before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in
and for the County and State above named personally appeared Mary Brierly who being duly sworn declares that she is the widow of George Brierly, and an applicant for a Pension by reason of the services of her husband in the war of the Revolution. That she believes she stated in her declaration making such claim that her husband died on the 30th of September 1833, which she now believes was an error. That the remembers distinctly that her husband died on the 30th of September, but after reflection as to the year since
making her declarations and comparing the date of her husbands death with other events that happened at about the same period she is satisfied that she was in error and that her husband died in the year 1835. and she desires to amend her declaration accordingly.
Affiant distinctly remembers that her husband
lived more than two years after the Cholera was in the County in 1832 
Mary Brierly  her mark
Attest
Mr. J Jefferson

Sworn to and subscribed before me, this the day and year first above written - And I also certify that I have no interest in this land and no way concerned in its prosecution
Jno. D. Gough J.P.B.C.
State of Ky, Bracken County Set
I, Richard J. Hughes Clerk of the
County Court of Bracken County Ky do hereby
certify that Jo. D. Gough Esqr before whom the
foregoing amended declaration was made, and who has  thereto subscribed his name, was at the time of so doing an acting Justice of the peace
Page 102

in and for the county and state above named duly commissioned and sworn; and that his signature thereto is genuine.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the Bracken County Court on this 8th day of November 1853.  Richd J. Hughey, Clerk
Affidavit of Mary Brierly 8th November A.D. 1853
Page 103

John N Jefferson
Affidavit Sept '53
Page 104

State of Ky Mason County Sete
On this 3rd day of September A. D. 1853 personally appeared before me, John N. Jefferson, a competent witness who being duly sworn declares that he prepared the pension papers in the case of Mrs. Mary Brierly, widow of George Brierly, a revolutionary pensioner and that at the time of providing her declaration, she was firmly of the opinion that her husband George was in receipt of a pension before 1832 and supposed [inserted from] that fact that he must have been in receipt of a pension at the rate of $96 per annum.  She also since informed me that she believed her husband was a private soldier in such war and that she always believed until recently informed better that all privates received $8 per month and [illegible].  She had no other idea at that time but such was the fact until better informed, and that is the reason why she so stated in said declaration.  He also further states, that from the extreme age of Mrs. Brierly her mind is very much imprecise and but very little information can be gained from her in consequence thereof.  In testimony whereof I hereunto subscribe my name, this the date first above written.  John N. Jefferson
Sworn to before me by John N. Jefferson this the date above written.  Wm E Ledden J. P. M. C.
State of Ky Mason County Set
I Robert A. Cochran Clerk of the County Court of Mason County Ky do hereby certify that William E. Ledden Esq. before whom the foregoing affidavit was made and who had thereunto subscribed his name was at the time of so doing an acting
Page 105

Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State above named, duly commissioned and sworn, and that his signature thereto is genuine.  In testimony whereof I now hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of my office, on this 3rd day of September 1853.  Robt A. Cochran Clk
Page 106

Affidavit of Mary
Brierly
3-th Nov. 1853
Page 107

State of Kentucky { SS
Mason County
On this 5th day of Nov 1853, before me the assigned a Justice of the Peace in and for the County & State above named personally appeared Mary Brierly who being duly sworn declares that she is the widow of Geroge Brierly and an applicant for a pension by reason of the service of her husband in the War of the Revolution.  That she believes she stated in her declaration making such claim that her husband died on the 30th of September 1833 but after reflection as to the year, since making her declaration and comparing that date of her husband's death with other events that happened at about the same [illegible[ she is satisfied that she was in error and that her husband died in the year 1835 and she desires to amend her declaration accordingly.  Affiant distinctly remembers that her husband lived more than two years after the cholera was in the County in 1832.  Mary Brierly (LS) her mark x
Attest Jno N. Jefferson (Signed)
Certified by J. P. & Clr of Ct
Page 108

State pf Kentucky } SS
Bracken County
On this 9th day of May A. D. 1853 before me Benj G. Willis, President Judge of the County and State above named, personally appeared William B. Cooper a competent and disinterested witness, who being duly sworn by me according to law, declares that he is well acquainted with Mary Brierly, widow of George Brierly deceased, and that he knows her to be the lawful widow of the said George as stated by him in the annexed declaration because he was present at their marriage in the town of Washington Mason County Ky, and saw them married. and the said marriage took place on the 31st day of March A. D. 1793 as stated by the said Mary Brierly in the annexed declaration.  He also declares that he knows she has remained a widow ever since the death of her husband and that she is now a widow.  He also declares that he knows that her deceased husband George Brierly was a pensioner before his death and he knows that he is dead, but does not know the date of his death.  He further declares that he is a disinterested witness.  William Cooper
Sworn to and subscribed before me this the date above written.  Benj G. Willis, President Judge Brackin County Court
Page 109

State of Kentucky, Bracken County Set
On this 9th day of May A.D. 1853, before me personally appeared James Jones a competent and disinterested witness, aged eighty five years, who being duly sworn by me declares that he has known Mary Brierly widow of George Brierly de'd from his infancy, that he knows her to be the legal widow of the said George, as stated by him in the annexed declaration because he was present at the time of her marriage and that said marriage took place in the town of Washington, Mason County Ky on the 27th day of March A.D. 1793 and that he knows the marriage took place on that day because he wrote it down in a book which he still retains (and I certify that the following is a true copy of the same taken from said book, in my presence) --"George Brierly and Mary Garrison were married on the 27th day of March A.D. 1793 --and he states that the original of the above has been in his possession ever since the said marriage and that it was written by him.  He also declares that he was present at the death of said George Brierly and that he died at his residence on the 30th day of September A.D. 1833 as stated by his widow in the annexed declaration.  He also declares that said George Brierly was a pensioner during his life, but did not draw up to the time of his death and that there was an arrears due at the time of his death.  He also declares that he has no interest in this claim directly or indirectly and that he is not concerned in itis prosecution.  James Jones
Sworn to and subscribed before me on this the day and year first above written, before me. Benj G. Willis Prdt. Judge Bracken County Court
Page 110

14758  Aug 17 '52
Application of Mary Brierly, widow of
Geo. Brierly
July 7, 1838
John N. Jefferson  Maysville Ky.
First Declaration
Page 111

Bracken County Kentucky
Know all men by these present that I Mary Brierly have this day nominated, constituted and appointed John N. Jefferson of the City of Maysville, County of Mason, and State of Kentucky my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name to receive from the United States the amount of pension to which I may be entitled as the widow of George Brierly, dse. or any such drafts or anything else for the same and to do lawful acts and things relative to the foregoing claim of Mary Brierly of every kind whatever legally, mainly confirming all the acts of my said attorney touching the same in any manner whatever.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto signed my name and affixed my seal.  Mary Brierly her mark x (LS)
Attest Cain Moran
Jno Dells   (Signed)
Acknowledged and signed before me on this 28th day of July A.D. 1852.  Signed Jno D. Gough. a Justice of the Peace
Certified by Clerk of Court
Page 112

State of Kentucky } SS
County of
On this 28th day of July A. D. 1853 personally appeared before me John D. Gough, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County & State aforesaid, Mary Brierly, aged 89 years, a resident of Bracken County in the State of Kentucky who being duly sworn according to law declares that she is the widow of George Brierly deceased who was a pensioner of the U. States under the act of      on the Rolls of the Lexington Agency at the rate of ninety six dollars per year, that the deceased pensioner [illegible] in the County of Bracken in the State of Kentucky for twenty two years previous to his death and died at his residence in said county on the last day of September A. D. 1833."  She further states that she was legally married to the said George Brierly by one       Wilson a Presbyterian minister of the Gospel           in the State of Ky on the 27th day of March 1793 and that she has remained a widow ever since the death of her said husband and that she is still a widow and knows of no record of the death of her said husband or her marriage to him either public or private
Page 113

She also further declares that for the time of almost one or more years previous to the death of her said husband he neglected to make out the proper vouchers to draw his pension and did not draw the same for that time.  She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the amount of pension to which she may be entitled as the widwo of the said George Brierly, a Revolutionary Pensioner, both for the arrears of pension due him at his death as well as the amount to which she may be entitled  since hhis death as his means aforesaid nveer knowing or have made provisions application for a pension of any kind for a pension of any kind whatever and refers the Commissioner of Pensions to the Declaration, Affidavits & to more on file at the City of Washington, D.C. placed there for the said husband to obtain hsi pension aforesiad and as to that they mabe made evidence in this
Page 114

State of Kentucky }
Bracken County } Sct:

On this 28th day of July 
A.D. 1852, before me John D. Gough 
a Justice of the Peace, personally appeared 
Wm B Cooper, who being duly 
sworn according to law, declares 
that he was well acquainted with 
George Brierly, during his life for 
many years, the husband of Mary 
Brierly who has made the annexed 
declaration, that he knows that George 
and Mary Brierly lived together 
as man and wife, and were  
legally so, for many years, 
and that he died her husband.
that he knows George Brierly drew 
a pension previous to his death, 
and that he knows George Brierly 
is dead, and that he died at 
the time and place and as 
described by his widow Mary 
Brierly and pronounces the 
facts therein stated by her to be
strictly true.

He further states that Mary 
Brierly is the widow of the identical 
George Brierly, that she represents 
herself to be, the facts being well 
known to him, having known 
both George Brierly & Mary Brierly 
well and was intimately acquainted 
with both of them.  He also states
that he no interest in the pension 
claim of Mary Brierly whatever.

[struck out: Certified] Signed Wm B. Cooper [L.S. encircled]
Page 115

State of Kentucky }
County of Bracken } Sct:

On this 28th day of July 1852 
before me Jno D. Gough a Justice of the 
Peace within and for the County & State 
aforesaid personally appeared Thomas 
Brierly, who being duly sworn according 
to law declares, that he well knows 
that Mary Brierly, who made the 
annexed declaration is the lawful 
widow of George Brierly, decd. that 
they lived together as man and wife 
for many years previous to his
death and were man and wife 
at the time of his death, and that 
they were married at the time and 
place and in the manner described 
by her in her Declaration.  He also 
states that George Brierly drew a 
pension in his life time until about 
one year previous to his death. 
He also declares that the said George 
Brierly died at the time and place 
described by his said widow and 
that he also knows that the papers of George 
Brierly relating to his said Pension were 
taken possession of by Robt Brierly in 
the manner described and that he 
refuses to give them up, and she cannot 
obtain them from him.

He also declares that he 
has no interest in this claim to a 
pension either directly or indirectly
(Certified) Signed Thos Brierly [L.S. encircled]
Page 116

[word Copies encircled]

State of Kentucky }
County of Bracken: } Ss:

On this 9th day of May 
A.D. 1853, personally appeared before me, Benjamin G. 
Willis President Judge of the County & State above named, 
Mary Brierly, a resident of Bracken County, 
in the State of Ky. aged ninety two years who 
being 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 7 AD. 1838, 
granting pensions to widows of persons who served 
during the Revolutionary War.  That she is 
the widow of the identical George Brierly 
who was a pensioner of the United States, 
on the Kentucky Roll, at the rate of twenty 
dollars per year, under the Act of June 
7th 1832. 

She further declares, that she was 
married to the said George Brierly on the 27 
day of March A.D. 1793 at Washington, 
Mason County, Ky. by one Willson 
a Presbyterian clergyman, that her name 
before said marriage was Mary Garrison 
and that her husband the aforesaid George 
Brierly died [struck out: at Bracken County Ky.] in the
Page 117

County of Bracken, State of Kentucky, on 
the 30th day of September A.D. 1833.  That 
she knows of no public or private record 
of either the said marriage or death. 
That she has remained a widow ever since 
the death of her said husband.  She 
claims all arrearages of pension.
Attest } Mary her X mark Brierly 
A. Weaver }
B. G. Willis } [word Signed encircled]

State of Kentucky 
Bracken, Sct:

I certify that the 
foregoing declaration of Mary Brierly, was 
this day sworn to and subscribed by her, 
before me, and I believe her statements therein 
contained are true.  I also certify that I have 
no interest in this claim, directly or indirectly, 
and that I am not concerned in its 
prosecution, and that she is of the age 
above stated.
Given under my hand this the 9th 
day of May, A.D. 1853. 
[word Signed encircled] Benj G. Willis
Presiding Judge of Bracken County Court
Page 118

State of Ky: Braken [Bracken] County, Sct:

I also further certify that 
Mary Brierly, from her extreme age, and 
infirmity of body, is unable to appear 
in open Court to make this Declaration 
Given under my hand this 9th day of 
May A.D. 1853.
[word Signed encircled] Benj G. Willis 
Presiding Judge, Braken [Bracken] County Court 

Know all men by these presents, that I 
Mary Brierly of the County of Bracken in the 
State of Ky. do hereby constitute and appoint 
Charles C. Tucker, of Washington, D.C., 
my true and lawful Agent & Attorney 
for me and in my name to prepare and 
prosecute my claim for a Revolutionary pension 
by the reason of the service of my deceased 
husband, and I hereby empower my 
said Attorney to examine all records 
and documents in reference to said 
claim on file in the Department at 
Washington, D.C. to file additional evidence 
and arguments and do all lawful
Page 119

acts and things whatsoever touching the 
premises with full force fo substitution 
thereby revoking and countermanding all 
former powers of Attorney that may 
have been given by me for the 
above specified purpose.
Witness my hand and seal this 9th day of May A.D. 1853.
Attest | Mary her X mark Brierly [L.S. encircled]
B.G. Willis }
A. Weaver } [word Signed encircled]

On this 9th day of May A.D. 1853, 
personally appeared before me Mary Brierly 
and acknowledged the foregoing power of 
Attorney to be her act and deed, for the 
purpose therein mentioned.
[word Signed encircled] Benj G. Willis
Pres'dg Judge Braken [Bracken] County Court 

State of Kentucky }
Braken [Bracken] County } SS:

I Richd. J. Hughey, Clerk of 
the County Court of Bracken County, Ky. do hereby
Page 120

certify that Benj. G. Willis, before whom the 
foregoing declaration, power of Attorney 
& affidavits were made, and who has thereunto 
signed his name, was at the time of so 
doing, President Judge of the County & State 
above named, duly commissioned and 
sworn and that his signature thereto 
is genuine.
[illegible] In testimony whereof I have 
hereunto subscribed my name 
and affixed my seal of 
office, at office, in the 
town of Brookville, 
this 13th day of May 
A.D. 1853.
[word Signed encircled] Richd. J. Hughey
Clk
Page 121

State of Kentucky }
Braken [Bracken] County } Ss:

On this 9th day of May A.D. 1853, 
before me Benj. G. Willis President Judge of the County 
& State above named, personally appeared William 
B. Cooper a competent & disinterested witness 
who being duly sworn by me, according to 
law, declares that he is well acquainted with 
Mary Brierly, widow of George Brierly, deceased, 
and that he knows her to be the lawful widow 
of the said George as stated by her in the annexed 
declaration, because he was present at their 
marriage in the town of Washington, Mason 
Co. Ky. and saw them married, and the said 
marriage took place on the 27th day of March 
A.D. 1793, as stated her the said Mary Brierly 
in the annexed declaration.  He also declares 
that he knows she has remained a widow 
ever since the death of her husband and 
that she is now a widow.  He also 
declares that he knows, that her deceased 
husband, George Brierly, was a pensioner 
before his death, and he knows that he is dead, 
but does not know the date of his death.
[word Signed encircled] William Cooper 
Sworn to and subscribed before me, this the date above written.
Signed Benj G. Willis,
President Judge Bracken County Court
Page 122

State of Kentucky 
Mason County, Sct

I, Robert A Cochran 
Clerk of the County Court of Mason County 
Ky. do hereby certify that I have 
examined the Records of marriage 
of Mason County and that there 
does not appear thereon any 
marriage of George Brierly to 
Mary Garrison.
[illegible seal] In testimony whereof I have 
hereunto subscribed my name 
and affixed the seal of the 
Mason County Court. Done at 
office in the City of Maysville 
on this 16th day of May AD. 1853
[word Signed encircled] Robert A. Cochran
Clerk
Page 123

State of Kentucky 
Braken [Bracken] County Sct:

On this 9th day of May A.D. 1853 
before me, personally appeared 
James Jones, a competent and disinterested 
witness aged eighty five years, who being 
duly sworn by me, declares that he 
has known Mary Brierly, widow of 
George Brierly, decd., from his infancy 
that he knows her to be the legal 
widow of the said George, as stated 
by her in the annexed declaration, 
because he was present at the time 
of her marriage, and that said marriage 
took place in the town of Washington 
Mason County, Ky. on the 27th day of 
March A.D. 1793; and that he 
knows the marriage took place on 
that day, because, he wrote it 
down in a book which he still 
retains (and I certify that the 
following is a true copy of the same 
taken from said book, in my
Page 124

presence) "George Brierly & Mary 
Garrison were married on the 27th 
day of March A.D. 1793" 
and he states that the original of the 
above has been in his possession 
ever since the said marriage and that 
it was written by him. He also declares  
that he was present at the death of the 
said George Brierly and that he died 
at his residence on the 30th day of 
September A.D. 1833, as stated by his 
widow in the annexed declaration.

He also declares that said 
George Brierly was a pensioner during 
his life, but did not draw up to the time 
of his death, and that there was an 
arrearage due at the time of his death.

He also declares that 
he has no interest in this claim 
directly or indirectly and that he is 
not concerned in its prosecution.
[word Signed encircled] James Jones [L.S. encircled]

Sworn to & subscribed before me 
this the day and year first above 
written. Before me
Signed Benj G. Willis 
Prdt Judge Braken [Bracken] County Court
Page 125

BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims, of which those 
answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of 
George Brierly which require 
further proof or explanation.

I.  Does the declaration show where the applicant resides?  yes

II.  Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides?  yes

III.  If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason 
assigned for his not doing so?

IV.  Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served?  not precisely 

V.  *Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he 
served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension 
he is entitled?  [answer struck out]

VI.  Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations?  yes

VII.  Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of 
June 7, 1832?  yes

VIII.  Has the Court given their opinion?  yes

IX.  Has the Clerk given his certificate?  yes

X.  Is the Clerk's seal affixed?  And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished 
from any other seal?  yes
Page 126

2

XI.  Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to 
their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolu
tionary service?  citizens only

XII.  If the clergyman's affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtain
ing it?  no

XIII.  If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one 
living witness, has he stated in his declaration that such proof cannot be had?  yes

XIV.  †If the applicant's name is not found on the rolls of military service, has he produced a witness 
or witnesses as to his service?
If he has produced direct proof as to service, has the magistrate who administered the oath, 
certified to the credibility of the witness or witnesses?
Has the proper officer certified to the official character and signature of the magistrate as the 
regulations direct?  yes

XV.  Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, 
as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant's service?

XVI.  ‡Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct?  authenticated

XVII.  Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily?  And, 
if not, which of them is no so answered?  answered

_________

EXPLANATORY NOTES.

*QUERE V.  In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how 
long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being 
duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he 
cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recol
lection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades; For _____
year _____ months, and _____ days, I served as a _____ For _____ months 
and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension.
Page 127

3

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, 
and the particular rank he held, as the law  directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the 
pensioner and the length of his service.  The use of the phrase about three or four months is to in
definite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable.  Some persons who apply for pensions 
merely state they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours; the names of the 
officers, and other particulars respecting their service.  This form of a declaration is highly objection
able.  It must in every case be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration 
of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the 
applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either 
in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not em
ployed in any civil pursuit.  
†QUERE XIV.  Proof of Service.
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must 
prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of 
the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the 
regiment, company, and line to which he belonged.  The magistrate who may administer the oaths 
must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magis
trate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
‡QUERE XVI.  Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not 
written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other paper authenticated, the cer
tificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon; the ends of which must pass 
under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly 
attached to the certificate.
👉In every case where the clerk of the court, or other certifying officer, has no public seal of 
office, the certificate of a member of congress, proving the official character and signature of the 
certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
Page 128

Pension Office, 
May 6 1857

Sir,

Before the claim for pension of Mary Brierly can 
be allowed under Act of February 3, 1853, she must file an affidavit 
setting forth fully all the facts and circumstances within her knowledge 
attending and connected with her application under Act of July 7, 1838, 
particularly as to her knowledge respecting the statement in said applica
tion of the date of her marriage.  This affidavit must be shown by the 
certificate of the magistrate before whom it shall be verified, to have been 
read to her and her attention particularly directed to its material parts. 
It appears you did not consult with the District Attorney in respect 
to the prosecution of Jefferson.  Mr. Rogers so informs this office 
although, he says, he wrote to you upon the subject.

Very respectfully, 
Your Obdt. Servt., 
Geo C Whiting
Commissioner.

Joseph H. Sherwin, Esq. }
Foster, }
Bracken Co., Ky. }
Page 129

Neville, Clermont Co.,Ohio June 8th 1857

Dear Sir.  At the time of the receipt of 
the foregoing letter I was confined by sickness, 
and was unable to reply.  I wrote to Mr. Rogers 
immediately on the receipt of the letter in which 
the commissioner requested me to write. As I received 
no answer to my first letter, I wrote a second 
but received no answer.  Some time in November 1855 
I travelled some 28 miles from my home to see 
the claimant and her witnesses, and make an 
investigation of the case, so far as I was able.  The 
result of that investigation to the Department in 
a letter written by me about that time.  In my 
letters to Mr. Rogers I urged an investigation of the 
case, as I believed it would result in establishing 
Mrs Brierlys claim under the Act of Feb. 3d 53. 
I make this statement of what was done in the 
case, as a matter of simple justice to myself.  I have 
been at considerable expense and trouble in this case, 
and feel conscious of having endeavored to my 
duty.  I do not [illegible] your Department for I
Page 130

know it is your duty to guard against imposition and 
fraud.  In consequence of feeble health I shall not 
be able to furnish or take the additional evidence required, 
but I think the claimant and her friends will 
furnish the evidence required.

I am very respectfully 
Your obedient servant 

Joseph H. Sherwin
Page 131

Foster, Bracken County Ky. April 25th 1857

Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, 

Sir I herewith 
transmit the pension certificate of George Brierly 
as additional evidence in favor of the claim 
of Mary Brierly (widow of the said George Brierly) 
This certificate should have been forwarded at an 
earlier date, but it was mislaid, and did not 
come into my possession until recently.

Mary Brierly claims a pension under the Act 
of February 3d 1853

I am very respectfully 
Your obedient servant

Joseph H. Sherwin
Page 132

Lexington Kentucky 
March 28, 1857

Sir 

Your communication of the 19th inst. 
was received in due time, and this day, 
I mail to you the papers in the case 
of Mary Brierly as requested. The 
papers were left by me at Frank
fort which is the reason I did not 
sooner reply to your letter of the 19th. 
I examined the papers carefully when 
received, also at the May session 1856 of 
the U. S. Court and from what appeared 
in the papers, I came to the conclusion 
that Jefferson could not be [illegible],
hence I did not institute a prosecu
tion and so advised your office in 
a letter [word struck out] mailed at Frankfort. 
I also wrote to Sherwin, at Neville Ohio 
to which I received no answer.

I am [illegible] respectfully 

C. C. Rogers
U.S, Atty. Ky Dist.

George C Whiting, Esqr
Commr. &c
Page 133

Pension Office, 
February 4, 1856.

Sir,

I herewith enclose the Declaration of Mary 
Brierly, executed May 9, 1853, and several affi
davits, which should have accompanied the papers 
transmitted on the 31st ultimo.  It will be per
ceived that they are referred to as among the 
papers marked "A."  Please acknowledge receipt 
of these papers.

I am,
Very respectfully 
Your Obt. Servant, 

R. McRae
For Commissioner

C. C. Rogers, Esqr. }
U. S. District Attorney, }
Lexington, }
Kentucky }
Page 134

Letter of Commissioner 
of Pensions
January 31, 1856.
Page 135

Pension Office, January 31, 1856

Sir,

I have to request your attention to certain facts developed 
in an application for person, which it would seem present a 
case provided for by the penal Act of Congress of March 3, 1823, 
Chapter 38.

Under date of August 28, 1852, Mary Brierly of Bracken 
County, Kentucky, made a Declaration for pension under the 
Act of Congress of July 7, 1838 (a copy of which act, with in
structions as to its execution, I herewith enclose).  It will be per
ceived that to entitle the widow of a revolutionary soldier to the 
benefit of this act it is indispensable that the marriage should 
have taken place prior to January 1794.  It was accordingly 
stated in this Declaration, as well as in others subsequently filed, 
that the claimant was married to George Brierly (who was during 
his lifetime a pensioner of the United States) on the 27th of 
March 1793.  (See the Declarations - papers marked "A") 
In support of this allegation several affidavits were adduced, 
some of which will be found attached to the Declarations, and 
others among the papers marked "B."  I particularly refer 
you to those of William Cooper, George Brierly Jr, and James 
Jones.  Cooper and Jones swear positively that they were 
present at the marriage, and that it occurred March 27, 1793
Page 136

(2

The latter of these affiants, it will appear from the papers, is now 
dead.  George Brierly is represented as a son of the claimant, 
and refers, in one of his affidavits to facts and circumstances con
nected with his own age, which, if his statements had been 
credited by the Pension office, would have been sufficient 
to authorize the allowance of the claim, under the rules 
adopted in such cases.  Many of the averments of the claim
ant and her witnesses as to other dates, however, were contradictory 
of known facts, and with each other; and this, together with a 
doubt entertained as to the genuineness of the signatures of Judge Willis & 
"James Jones" to the certificates and affidavit in papers 
marked "A," induced the office to decline allowing the claim, 
notwithstanding the Judge appeared to be under the impression 
that he signed the certificates referred to.  (See his letter marked 
"C."

Thus the claim stood until very recently, when the same 
claimant presented, through another attorney, an application 
for pension under the act of February 3, 1853 (a printed copy 
of which, and Instructions are herewith enclosed) which granted 
pensions to widows of revolutionary soldiers irrespective of the 
date of marriage.  It will be seen, however, that under the 
latter act the allowance would commence at the date of its pas
sage, while under the act of July 7, 1838, it would com
Page 137

3

mence on the 4th March 1836.

In this last Declaration the widow swears (and 
no doubt correctly) that she was married to the pensioner 
in 1811, and sustains her statement by the affidavits
of several witnesses, among whom are William 
Cooper, (already referred to as a witness in the 
previous application) and Joseph D. Dryden, who 
attested the signature of the claimant to her Declaration 
executed July 18, 1854.

It would appear to be very evident, therefore, 
from the proof in the application made under the act of 
'53 (see papers marked "D.") that a fraud upon the 
government was attempted to be perpetrated in the application 
under the act of '38.  As to the guilty party or parties 
this office can only refer, as a reasonable solution, to the 
letters of Joseph H. Sherwin, who is the attorney in the 
case now pending (see papers marked "E.") and who 
upon being informed by this office of the condition 
of the claim, appears to have instituted some inquiry. 
Mrs. S. resides at Neville, Clermont County, Ohio. 

Should you decide to proceed against John N. 
Jefferson, the person referred to in Mr. Sherwin's letter 
of the 19th November last, it is presumed you will select
Page 138

4

the clause of the act of 1823 making it penal to transmit 
fraudulent papers to this office, knowing them to be such; 
and it is in this view I enclose the letters of Jefferson 
directed to this office, and also those addressed by him to C. C. 
Tucker, of this city, his agent.  The hand writing will also show 
that Ferguson personally prepared the fraudulent Declarations 
and affidavits.  I also enclose Tucker's letters as indicating 
the source from whence the fraudulent papers emanated (see 
papers marked "F"). If deemed necessary, Tucker can be 
used as a witness.

It will be perceived that much of the proof above 
alluded to, was transmitted to this office more than two years 
ago.  Such papers cannot, of course, be made the subject 
matter of indictment, being barred by the limit to the operation 
of the act of '23; but others, particularly the affidavits 
of George Brierly, were executed within the prescribed 
time, and doubtless the whole of these papers would be held to 
be admissible evidence to show the guilty knowledge of the 
party indicted.

I have written to Mr. Sherwin, informing him 
that his letter has been communicated to you, and requesting 
him to confer with you upon the subject of its contents, and also 
apprising him that the claim under act of '53 will remain
Page 139

5

suspended until the true state of this case shall have been 
satisfactorily ascertained.  Your early attention to this matter 
will oblige, and you will please advise me of what is done in the 
premises.

Very respectfully 
Your obt. servant,
[illegible]
Commissioner

C. C. Rogers Esqr }
U. S. District Attorney, }
Lexington, }
Kentucky }
Page 140

Bracken County Kentucky Novr 19th 1855

Dear Sir, I take this opportunity to make a second reply to 
your letter addressed to me in Oct, in which you ask for an 
explanation of the discrepancy between Mrs Brierly's two decla
rations.  I have taken the trouble to travel 28 miles from home 
to investigate this matter, and am now at the house of Joseph 
D. Dryden where the claimant (Mary Brierly) then lived, and 
now lives, and where her first declaration was made about 
May 1853 before ___ Willis, the county Judge.  I am now 
informed, and have reason to believe the statements now 
made, that neither Mary Brierly nor her witnesses intention
ally or knowingly declared or stated that she was married 
in 1793.  Neither the claimant nor her witnesses can read 
writing.  I am fully satisfied that the claimant, Mary Brierly, 
did not knowingly declare that she was married in 1793. 
Her witnesses, George Brierly and Wm. B Cooper are honest and 
truthful men.  They could have no interest in any pension 
that the said Mary Brierly might obtain. One of the 
witnesses was not born in 1793.  The other was, probably, one 
or two years old only at that time (1793).  The agent who 
made out the declaration and took the affidavits was 
John N. Jefferson of Maysville Ky.  The only solution 
of the difficulty that I can give, is that the said Jefferson 
intentionally wrote the declaration and affidavits incorrectly, 
and that he read them to the claimant and her witnesses differ
ently from what they were actually written.
Page 141

I do not allege that I know that the said Jefferson did this 
deceive the claimant, and her witnesses; but I cannot dis
cover how the mistake could have been made in any other 
way.

I am very respectfully 
Your obedient servant 

Joseph H. Sherwin

[Written vertically right margin]

Jos. H. Sherwin's 
Letter Nov. 19, 1855

E
(E)
Page 142

Joseph H. Shirwin 
Let) October 23, 1855
Page 143

Neville, Clermont Co Ohio Oct 23d 1855

Dear Sir, Your letter asking for some explanation 
respecting the declaration of Sarah Brierly is before me 
I made out a declaration for Mary, not Sarah Brierly; 
at least, her name is entered upon my book Mary Bri
erly.  She professes to be the widow of one George Brierly 
who was a Revolutionary Pensioner.  I have but very little 
acquaintance with her, or her witnesses.  I do not know 
what declarations she has formerly made.  She lives about 
twenty eight miles from this place (Neville).  I will go and 
see her, so soon as I can conveniently, and will then 
write to you again on the subject.

I am very respectfully 
Your obedient servant 

Joseph H. Sherwin
Page 144

Washington D.C. Nov. 8, 1854.

Hon Loren P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions 

Sir, 

I would 
respectfully ask that the claim of Mary Brierly 
widow of George of Kentucky, under the Act of 
July 7, 1838 may be taken up and examined 
and if found correct and fully proved that the 
certificate may be issued.

Very respectfully 
Your Obt. Servt.

Chas. C. Tucker.
Page 145

Washington City, 
September 7, 1854.

Hon. L. P. Waldo, 
Commissioner of Pensions. 

Sir,

I have the honor 
to enclose herewith, an additional Affidavit 
which I have recently received from John N. 
Jefferson Esq. which please file with the 
claim of Mary Brierly, widow of George, 
of Kentucky, Act of 7, July 1838.

Very Respectfully, 
Your Obt. Servt.

Chas. C. Tucker.
Page 146

Brief case Mary Brierly wid. Geo. Ky.

Mary Brierly (9th May 1853, before a Judge) aged 92 years, de
clares she is the widow of the identical Geo. Brierly 
a pensioner at rate of $20. per annum.  Mar
ried to sd. George 27th March 1793-her name be
fore marriage was Garrison.  George dies 30th 
Sept. 1833.  Knows of no public or private record 
of marriage or death.
Wm. B. Cooper (9th May 1853), says he was well acquainted 
with Mary widow of George, knows her to be the 
lawful [struck out: wife] widow of George, because he was 
present at their marriage and saw them marri
ed-they were married on 27th March 1793.  Ma
ry has remained a widow ever since.  Knows 
George was a pensioner & died but does not 
know [struck out: when] date he died.
Jas. Jones (9th May 1853), has known Mary widow of George 
from his infancy-was present at their marriage, 
which took place 27th March 1793.  He knows 
it took place that day because he wrote it 
down in a book, which he still retains-(sends 
a copy), original been in his possession since mar
riage-present at George's death & he died at
Page 147

Page 2

his [struck out: home] residence 30th Sept. 1833.  George 
was a pensioner [struck out: up to] but did not draw 
up to time of his death.

Wm. B. Cooper & }
Thos Brierly } Swear George died at time stated by
widow in her decln. made July 1852
Jas Jones swears to death Sept 30, 1833.

[Written vertically left margin]

Mary Brierly 
wid George 
Ky 
Act 7th July 1838

C. C. Tucker Esq
Washington
D.C.
Page 148

Letters of Jefferson
which proves he 
sent the papers 
to Tucker
Page 149

Maysville Ky Septr 2, 1854

Mr C. C. Tucker 

Dr Sir

I wrote down to the 
place where this man Jones lived when last I 
took his affidavit and find by the enclosed affi
davit that he is dead sure enough, and 
enclosed you will find the affidavit of William 
Fronk to the fact.  I know Fronk well 
he is a very credible witness

Yr. obt. servt.

Jno. N. Jefferson
Page 150

C. C. Tucker 
acknowledging having 
received the papers in 
this case from a 
Correspondent [ie
Jefferson]

August 15, 1854
Page 151

Washington City,
August 15, 1854.

Hon. L. P. Waldo,
Commissioner of Pensions.

Sir,

I have the honor 
to enclose additional evidence in the case of Mary Brierly, 
wWdow of George, of Kentucky, under Act of 7, July 1838, 
viz: the Affidavit of William S. Curtis, explaining two 
circumstances from which he is certain of the date of 
George Brierly's death, and asserting his conviction of 
the justice of this claim.

I am aware, Sir, that my correspondent 
in this case, a resident of Kentucky, has not exhibited 
much skill in the preparation of the several papers, but 
as the Widow and some of her Witnesses are represented 
to be very ignorant and there appears to be an honest 
likelihood of the general facts at which they aim, it 
is respectfully submitted to your decision whether 
the enclosed Affidavit will be received as a satisfactory 
explanation of the difficulties heretofore existing.

I have the honor to be, 
Very Respectfully, Your Obt. Servt.

Chas. C. Tucker, 
Attorney.
Page 152

Letter of 
C. C. Tucker, 
offering to give up 
the name of his 
correspondent.

He probably did so,
but there was sufficient 
evidence of the fact 
before 

F

(F)
Page 153

Washington City, 24, July 1854.

Hon. L. P. Waldo,
Commissioner of Pensions.

Sir, 

In reply to your letter 
of 23d. May last, relative to the claim of Mary Brierly, Widow 
of George, of Ky. Act of 1838, I have the honor to enclose her 
explanatory Affidavit which I have just received, and which 
is respectfully submitted to your consideration with the other 
papers which are on file.

As your letter intimates in regard to some of those 
papers, that there is a "strong suspicion of their genuineness," 
I beg leave to say that I have presented them just as they 
were received from my correspondent, whose name I am ready 
to surrender if he has violated any law.  A claim which 
would amount to twenty times this small one, would not 
be sufficient to tempt me to a dishonorable action, much 
less to attempt a fraud upon the Government; and as 
this is so small a case, I cannot but indulge the hope 
that when you re consider and re examine all the facts, 
with the enclosed explanation, you will relieve all the 
parties from suspicion of wrong intentions; nevertheless, 
I cheerfully submit it to your decision.

Very Respectfully, 
Your Obt. Servt. 

Chas. C. Tucker.
Page 154

Letter of 
C. C. Tucker 
May 19, 1854
Page 155

Washington City, 19, May 1854.

Hon. L. P. Waldo, 
Commissioner of Pensions.

Sir:

In your letter of 14th 
April last, you say, (relative to claim of Mary Brierly, Widow of 
George, Act 1838,) "how does her Son know he was 21 years old before 
"the Battle of New Orleans?"; in reply to which, 

I have the honor to enclose herewith, his additional 
Affidavit, stating "that he knows it from the fact that at the time 
"of the news of the Battle of New Orleans being received in Kentucky, an 
"event causing great joy throughout the nation, he well remembers that 
"like most other young men he was looking forward with interest to the 
"following first day of April when he should be 21 years of age and be 
"entitled to all the privileges of a man, as his Parents George & Mary Brierly 
"always told him that they were married in March or April 1793, and that 
"he was born on the 1st. day of April 1794, which he had no reason to 
"doubt, as it was so understood and acknowledged by the neighbors ever since
"he was a small boy and heard conversations relative to their marriage 
"and his birth such as are common in every neighborhood."  He also 
says he cannot be mistaken because History fixes that Battle as having 
occurred on 8th. January 1815.

On the same paper, Thomas Cambeer and Joseph D. 
Dryden, certified to be respectable & disinterested citizens, swear they have 
known George forty years, that they believe those statements, and 
believe he is sixty years old as he states.  All duly certified.
Page 156

In reply to the latter clause of your letter of 14 April 
last, allow me, Sir, to refer you to the following facts, viz:

1st.  We have clearly proven that no Record evidence 
of the Marriage can be found.

2nd.  That we have proven the marriage by two living 
Witnesses, who swore they were present at the marriage on 27th. 
March 1793, and knew it was in that year, from facts which 
they state.  One of them James Jones, is proven to have died since 
his Affidavit was taken, and the memorandum to which he 
refers lost.

Upon referring to these, with the other testimony 
on file to prove the date of this marriage, and a candid consid
eration of the Explanatory Affidavit of George Brierly, now sent, 
you will I think be convinced that your requirements have been 
complied with, and that the evidence is sufficient for the 
allowance of the claim, even if it involved an amount ten 
times as large as that due the Widow.

Please forward me her Pension Certificate 
as early as practicable.

Very Respectfully, 
Your Obt. Servt.

Chas. C. Tucker
Page 157

Washington D.C. April 10, 1854

Hon Loren P. Waldo,
Commissioner of Pensions

Sir,

Enclosed please find 
additional evidence for the claim of Mary Brierly widow 
of George of Kentucky under the Act of July 7, 1838.

It is believed that all the requirements of your letter 
of August 8, 1853 have now been complied with as far as 
possible.  An explanation of the error made in the first 
application has been filed and I have forwarded evidence 
showing the impracticability of obtaining the record referred 
to by the witness Jones.  In evidence of the period or 
date of the marriage there is presented the testimony of James 
Jones who was present at the marriage and who stated why 
he was enabled to fix the date, and the testimony of the 
claimant's son George Brierly Jr. to his own age.

It is to be presumed that but few persons are unacquainted 
with their age or birth day and the witness certainly gives 
good reasons why he knows that he attained his majority in the 
month of April 1815, which would bring his birth in Apr. 1794.
If the witness had been born six months later and positive 
testimony to the precise date, still the claim would not have 
been admitted.  For this reason it has been found impossible to 
obtain the evidence of others to the witness's age, that would be
Page 158

considered satisfactory, and it is not to be expected that, except 
under very peculiar circumstances, any one can swear to the 
precise age, within six months of a man sixty years of age.

Very respectfully 
Your Obt Servt

Chas. C. Tucker.
Page 159

Letter of 
C. C. Tucker, 
February 15, 1854
Page 160

Washington D.C. February 15th 1854.

Hon. Loren P. Waldo, 
Commissioner of Pensions.

Sir,

I send herewith 
additional evidence for the claim of Mary Brierly, widow 
of George of Kentucky under the Act of July 7, 1838.

The record stated by James Jones one of the former 
witnesses to have been made by him, cannot be had as I 
have been informed, and the enclosed affidavit from 
James Cleny and John Mann has been sent to me, to 
show the impracticability of obtaining it.

Very respectfully 
Your Obt Servt

Chas. C. Tucker.
Page 161

Affidavits of 
James Cleny & 
John Mann
Feby 1, 1854
Page 162

State of Kentucky } 
Mason County } Ss.

On this first day of 
February A.D. 1854, before me a Justice of the peace 
in and for the County and State aforesaid 
personally came James Cleny and John Mann 
credible and disinterested witnesses, [struck out: personally 
came] who being duly sworn, declare they were well 
acquainted with James Jones who has heretofore 
made affidavit, to enable Mary Brierly widow 
of George Brierly, to obtain pension for the service 
of her husband, in the war of the Revolution 
that they were present when he made his affidavit 
in said case, and they were his neighbors, and knew 
him well, that he was a truthful man & have that 
reputation by all his neighbors and acquaintances 
but that he is now dead, and died on the 29th day 
of December A.D. 1853, that a short time before his 
death they saw him have a book containing the 
marriage of George Brierly and Mary Garrison 
that they are not positive as to the exact date of the 
marriage, but feel almost confident that it was 
entered in said book, to have taken place sometime 
in the year seventeen hundred and ninety 
three (1793), that said James Jones lived with 
his son William Jones, who since the death of his 
father has left the State of Ky, they have been
Page 163

informed for "Texas" that he has taken with 
him all the property and effects (which was 
very little) that belonged to his father James Jones 
decd. and they presume also the book containing 
the entry of said marriage, as it cannot be found 
since he left, due search having been made therefor

They also swear they are disinterested witness
es

James Cleny [word Seal encircled]
John Mann [word Seal encircled]

Sworn to and subscribed before me this the day 
and date first above written.  And I certify 
that the same James Cleny and John 
Mann are credible and competent witnesses 
that they reside in the County of Bracken and State 
of Ky.  I also certify that I have no interest in this 
claim and am not concerned in its prosecution.
H. S. Jefferson J.P. M.C.

State of Ky Mason County Sct.

I, Robert A. Cochran Clerk of the 
Mason County Court, do hereby certify that Henry 
S. Jefferson Esqr before whom the foregoing affidav
its were made, and who has thereunto subscribed 
his name was at the time of so doing an acting 
Justice of the peace in and for the County and 
State above named, duly commissioned and
Page 164

sworn, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto 
subscribed my name and affixed 
the seal of my office.  Done at 
office in the City of Maysville 
on this the 8th day of Feb
ruary 1854.
Robt A. Cochran
Clk
Page 165

Washington D.C. Dec. 28, 1853.

Hon. Loren P. Waldo,
Commissioner of Pensions.

Sir,

I send 
herewith additional evidence for the Pension Claim 
of Mrs Mary Brierly widow of George of Kentucky 
under the Acts of July 7, 1838 and subsequent Acts.

The claimant having made an error in stating 
the year in which her husband died, now makes an 
explanatory affidavit.  The error was discovered in the 
3d. Auditors Office when examining her claim for arrears 
of the soldier's pension.  I filed in that office some 
testimony in reference thereto with a request that it 
should be sent to your office, which I presume has 
been done.

I enclose a letter from the Auditor showing that 
the claim for arrears has been examined and allowed.   
Also the letter referring to the error mentioned above

Very respectfully 
Your Obt. Servt.

Chas. C. Tucker.
Page 166

TREASURY DEPARTMENT, 
SECOND COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE, 

Nov. 17, 1853.

Sir:

Under the act of the 6th of April, 1838, entitled, "An 
Act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain 
Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury 
of the United States," and the third section of the Act of August 
23, 1842, extending the time within which pensioners may receive their 
pensions from the Pension agents,
the widow of George Brierly, dec.
a Pensioner on the Roll of the Kentucky 
Agency, at the rate of Twenty Dollars 
[struck out: and __ Cents] per year, under the law of the 
7" June 1832 has been paid at this Department, from the 
4" of March 1835 to the 30 Sept. 1835.

Respectfully, yours,

J. M. Brodhead
Comptroller.
7436 Act-'32

To the COMMISSIONER OF PENSIONS, 
Present.
Page 167

To the Commissioner of Pensions

Dear Sir, I here
with transmit the certificate of the clerk of Mason 
County e.g. showing that there is record evidence of the 
marriage of George Brierly and Mary Garrison.  I have 
been fully apprised that there is a discrepancy between the 
testimony transmitted by me, and that sent to your De
partment by J. N. Jefferson.  It has been my object to 
present the truth, and nothing but the truth in this 
case.  The claimant and the witnesses were entire stran
gers to me when I went to take the evidence in this 
case.  I was fully convinced that the claimant was 
entitled under the Act of 1853, and that she was not 
entitled under any previous act.  I found the witnesses 
to be persons of but little or no education, and of but 
little intelligence.  They informed me that J. N. Jefferson 
had inquired and searched for record evidence in 
the clerk's office, and had found none.  Since I 
received the intelligence that Jefferson had fixed the 
marriage in 1793, or about that time, I concluded that 
he might have designedly withheld the correct evidence 
in the case; I therefore applied by letter to the clerk, and 
received his certificate which is herewith transmitted.

To aid in finding the papers, I would state that the decla
ration made out by me, was forwarded to you 
about the 1st of September 1855.

I am very respectfully, Joseph H. Sherwin
&c
Page 168

P. S. If it is deemed necessary, the testimony of a 
number of [word struck out] credible witnesses can be fur
nished to prove that the applicant and her husband 
(George Brierly) lived together from the time of their mar
riage until the time of his death, as husband and
wife, and that they were so reputed.

I am very respectfully
Your obedient servant 

J. H. Sherwin
Page 169

Treasury Department 
Third Auditors' Office 
August 3d 1853.

Sir

I return the vouchers 
of the widow of George Brierly 
for the arrears of his pension 
claimed to the "30th September 
1833," the day the pensioner is said 
to have died, received from  
you yesterday.  As this pen
sion appears from our 
books to have been paid up 
to the "4th March 1835," the pre
sumption is that there is a mis
take in the certificate of [illegible]. 
The vouchers are, therefore, 
returned for explanation 
& amendment.

Very respectfully 
Your obdt. servt.

F.  Bush
Third Auditor
Page 170

[Written vertically left margin]

C. C. Tucker's writing 

{Recd. April 26th
{Ans-May 3d.

Jefferson's letter 
April 19/53
Page 171

April 19th 1853.

Dr Sirs,

Are you not mistaken in stating in the forms  
that you sent out, that George Brierly, was a pensioner 
of the United States "under the act of "1832"

I am informed, by conversation with those who know 
or ought to, since I rec'd said form and dated &c, from 
you, that he (George Brierly) died before 1832, I 
think in 1829, examine in the pension office 
and see if there is not some mistake about the [illegible],
and if he died before that date I think it will 
require another form for his widow (Mary).

Examine minutely and find whether, there are not 
two George Brierlys.  Those persons also inform me 
that he drew $96, per annum, to the best of their 
recollections.

Yr. obt. servt.

John N. Jefferson
Page 172

Postmarked 30th } Tucker's
Recd. April 2 } writing

Letter of Jefferson 
mailed 26/53
Page 173

March 26, 1853.

C. C. Tucker Esqr

Dr Sir, There is an 
application on file in the pension office, of 
Mrs Mary Brierly, who is the widow of George 
Beyerly, who was a pensioner (under what act I 
do not know).  She stated in her application 
that her husband was pensioner at the rate of 
$96. per annum, but the commissioner writes 
that there was no pensioner by the name at that rate who drew 
from Ky, but there [struck out: is] was one by the name [struck out: of]
who $20. per annum.  I suppose this is 
the man.  The claim is suspended for want of 
strangers proof of the marriage.  I want you 
to write back to me all the dates stated in her 
declaration, I.E. the marriage, his death, &c &c.
Also when she was married, so that I may steer the 
old channel without running against snaggs [snags].
Also tell me what I must prove and how many wit
nesses.

Please write soon and let me be at it.

Yr obt. servt.

Jno. N. Jefferson
Page 174

Act of _______

Mary Brierly 
wid of Geo Brierly 

Revy Pen. Claim

Power of Attorney
to examine claim

Soldier was a pensioner under 
Act of 1832 at $20. per year 
Kentucky roll.  Widows claim 
believed to be under Act of 1848.

Chas. C. Tucker 
Atty
Present
Page 175

Know all me by these presents, that I Mary 
Brierly, have this day constituted and appointed 
Charles C. Tucker of the City of Washington 
D.C. my true and lawful attorney, for me and in 
my name to examine, the papers now on file, in 
the pension office, at Washington City D.C. placed 
there for me to obtain a pension, as the widow 
of George Brierly deceased, a Revolutionary pensioner, 
and he is hereby authorized to file additional 
evidence, and arguments, to receive the certificate 
of pension I may be allowed, and to do all and 
every thing, legally, that I might or could do were 
I personally present to procure the same.

Hereby confirming all that my said attorney 
may do or cause to done, as aforesaid, touching 
the same in any manner whatever.

Given under my hand this 21st day of March 
1853.
Attest | Mary her X mark Brierly
John N Jefferson
J. Paul

State of Ky, Mason County

This day personally came Mary 
Brierly, and signed and acknowledged the foregoing 
power of attorney to be her act and deed, for the 
purposes therein stated.  Given under my
Page 176

hand this the 21st day of March 1853.
H. S. Jefferson,
A Justice of the peace

State of Ky, Mason County

I Robert A Cochran 
Clerk of the County Court of Mason County Ky, 
do hereby certify, that Henry S. Jefferson, before 
whom the foregoing power of attorney was made 
and who has thereunto subscribed his name was 
at the time of [struck out: of] so doing an acting Justice 
of the peace, in and for the County and State 
aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn 
according to law.
In testimony whereof I have 
hereunto signed my name 
and affixed my seal of office. 
Done at office in the City 
of Maysville Ky, this the 
29th day of March 1853.
Robt A. Cochran Clk
Page 177

Letter of John N. Jefferson
Feby 21 1853
Page 178

Feby 21st 1853.

Hon J. E. Heath

Dr Sir

Some six or seven months 
since I as atty, sent to the department the claim 
of Mrs Mary Brierly, widow of George, for 
pension, and the declaration &c were made out 
before a Justice of the peace, because she was not 
able from age and infirmity to go to a court of 
record.  But I dont that the fact is certified 
on the papers. If it be absolutely necessary that 
a certificate should be sent to the department proving 
her unable to go to a court of record, please inform 
me and I will send the same to you.

Such is the fact, that is not able.  The nearest court 
of record to her residence is I think at least 
18 miles.

{ Your obt. Servt.
{ John N Jefferson 
{ atty for Mrs Brierly 

NB
The old lady cannot tell whether husbands 
name was spelt "Brierly" or 'Bryerly" some 
persons say it was spelt the latter way

Yrs &c

John N. Jefferson
Page 179

Letter of 
John N. Jefferson 
Feby 3, 1853
Page 180

Letter written to Mr Jefferson
23 March 1853.
Page 181

Maysville Feby 3d 1853.

Hon J. E. Heath 

Dr Sir,

Some time in the month 
of either July or August last, I sent as atty 
the claim of [word struck out] Mrs Mary Brierly, widow 
of George Brierly deceased, who was a revolution
ary pensioner during his life, to the department 
of the Commissioner of Pensions, and have 
since received a letter stating that the same 
had been received and was on file, and would 
be attended to. [word struck out] but since the reception 
of said letter, I have heard nothing relative to
the claim.

Will you please inform me what disposition 
has been made of the claim; or if the same 
is allowed send the certificate, if it has been [illegible].

} I am most Respectfully 
Hon J. E. Heath } Your obt. servt.
Washington City D. C. } John N Jefferson 
} atty for Mrs Brierly

NB.
Will you inform me [word struck out] what disposition has been 
made of the claim of Thomas Devin, son and hei 
at law of William and Mary Devin deceased 
for pension.
J

See Mr. Hanson about this cor