Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 3681, Edward Heston, Penn.
Page 1

(3-1776)

SERVICE
Penn

Heston, Edward
Sarah

NUMBER
W. 3681

CONTENTS
Page 2

[left-hand side of page]

5513.      Phila
Pennsylvania
-------------------------------
Sarah Heston
widow of Edward Heston
Penn
who served in the Revolutionary war, as 
a Lieut. Colonel for two years.
----
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of
600 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence
on the 4th day of March, 1848.
----
Certificate of Pension issued the
third day of Sept 1850
and sent to Hon E.W. McGaughey
House of Reps
----
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act
February 2, 1848, Page 224 Vol. 2

[right-hand side of page]
Let to S A Peugh May 9. 1851
Reputed [ ? ]
Page 3

7006
---
Sarah Heston
of Edward
Pennsylvania
Apl '40

A.

Allow by Secy of War
Intern
died 14 Feby 1824

Hon. Francis James
H.R.
Page 4

No 1

To the Commissioner of Pensions for the U.S.A.

The petition of Sarah Heston of Blockley in the County of Philadelphia and State of Pennsylvania widow of Edward Heston deceased, respectfully represents that as the widow of the said Edward Heston (he was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Revolutionary War) she claims herself entitled to a pension under the Act of Congress, the evidence of which title she herewith forwards:  She therefore prays that a pension may be granted to her according to the Act of Congress of the United States in such case provided
Phil[raised a] County  April 1840

Sarah Heston [signature]

No 2
State of Pennsylvania   }
County of Philadelphia } Ss

On this fourteenth day of April AD One Thousand Eight Hundred and Forty personally appeared in open Court of Common Pleas in and for the said County before the Honourable [sic] Archibald Randall one of the Judges of the said Court Sarah Weston [name is underlined] a resident of Blockley Township in the County aforesaid is ^ aged seventy six years & Eleven months, who being first duly affirmed according to law doth on her solemn affirmation 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 granting half pay and pensions to certain widows"; and also of any other act or acts applicable to her case:  That she is the widow of Edward Heston who was a ^ Lieutenant Colonel of the Militia of the State of Pennsylvania in the service on behalf of the United States of America during the war of the Revolution; that to the best of affirmants knowledge & belief the said Edward Heston entered the service as a captain of the militia near the commencement of the war and before the declaration of Independence: that he afterwards became Lieutenant Colonel, and continued in the service during the war and until the conclusion of the Peace:  that he served under General Potter of the Pennsylvania Militia [crossed out words}:  that he was a prisoner of war for about two months in Philadelphia and for about seven or eight months at Long Island:  that the said Edward Heston resided in Blockley aforesaid when he entered the service:  that he went as a volunteer as affirmant supposes, though she does not know whether he was draughted or not:  that he was wounded in a skirmish in Blockley at the time of his capture:  that he was assisting in the transactions connected with the Battle of Germantown, under the order of General Worthington:  that affirmant has no documentary evidence to support her claim other than is ^ hereinafter mentioned:  that the said Edward Heston died on or about the fourteenth day of February 1824:  - That [crossed out word] affirmant was married to the said Edward Heston before Issac Howell Esquire in Philadelphia City on the 18th day of November 1784:  that she has never since been married; that affirmant lived with said Edward Heston as his wife until his decease:  that the said Edward Heston never
(over)
Page 5

received any pension to the best of affirmant's knowledge & belief.  Affirmant further sayeth that her only documentary evidence is her marriage certificate, and certificate of Record of Legislature and Treasurer of Pennsylvania of allowance to her husband for services, together with letter addressed to her said husband dated July 7th 1779 from Col Isaac Warner with papers herein referred to.

Sarah Heston [signature]

Affirmed & subscribed in
open Court April 14. 1840
Arch [Archibald] Randall

No 2

On the day and year aforesaid personally appeared also in said Open Court of Common Pleas before the said Hon Archibald Randall Esquire one of the Judges therein William Holgate aged seventy seven years, residing in Lower Merion Montgomery County, who being duly affirmed according to law doth depose and say that this affirmant was a regular soldier ^ and afterward Lieutenant in the United States Army in the War of the Revolution and as such is now on the pension list:  that he is acquainted with Sarah Heston who has made the foregoing affidavit:  that he also knew Edward Heston who is referred to in the same, and knew that the said Edward & Sarah lived together as husband & wife in Blockley Township Phil[raised a] County:  that he knew the said Edward during the war of the revolution and saw him in actual service on the side of the United States in a body of horsemen, in which he thinks the said Edward was at that time Captain ^ but is not certain of his rank:  This was under the command of General Potter of the Pennsylvania [crossed out word] militia, and I think in the year 1777. 
Affirmant knew said Edward Heston to be in the service under the observation of affirmant for upwards of six months, or at least that time. In addition to the said time affirmant also knew the said Edward Heston to be in the American service several months more by seeing him occasionally backwards and forwards conveying intelligence to and from the American officers.  Affirmant knows nothing further except by hearsay:  but during the war of the Revolution and after the services above referred to, and at or about the time of the occupation of Philadelphia by the British troops, he heard of the capture of the said Edward Heston made in Philadelphia County by the British forces:  that affirmant always understood and believed that said Edward Heston remained a prisoner of war from nine to twelve months:  This he heard heard at the  time from general reports in the army:  The said Edward Heston was a very active man in the contest and noted
Page 6

as such.  He was a captain when affirmant first knew him and a colonel afterwards.
William Holgat [signature]

Affirmed & subscribed in}
open court April 14. 1840}
Arch'd Randall

No 3

Jacob Latch on the day and year aforesaid personally appeared in open court aforesaid before the said Archibald Randall Esquire one of the Judges thereof and being duly sworn doth depose and say as follows:  That deponent is aged Eighty one years and upwards, that he resides in Lower Merion Township Montgomery County Pa which was formerly a part of Philadelphia County:  That deponent was in the American Service during the war of the Revolution as a militia man and is on the pension list as such.  That he knew Edward Heston of Blockley referred to in the foregoing affidavits;  that he also knew from Childhood Sarah Heston who has made the preceding affidavit, and whose maiden name was Hall:  that he knew the said Edward & Sarah Heston to live together as husband and wife for many years and until the decease of the said Edward, & that they had several children.   Deponent always understood that the said Edward Heston was in the American Service during the war of the revolution, and deponent was once in his company in said service on a scouting party.  Said Edward was an officer but deponent does not know his precise commission, except that at the time above mentioned he was a captain:  afterwards he was called Colonel. -- I think it was in the winter of 1777 that I saw him.  Said Edward Heston was taken prisoner as deponent understood at the time from general reports, about March or April 1778 (Seventeen Hundred Seventy Eight).  He was taken near the residence of deponent.  The said Edward Heston remained a prisoner to the British forces for several months:  about two months in or near Philadelphia, and was then taken on to Long Island.  He did not return from his captivity until the fall or early part of the winter succeeding his capture.  Deponent understood that said E. Heston was wounded in the head at the time of his capture, this information he had from those who were present. 

Jacob Latch [signature]

Sworn & Subscribed in     }
open Court April 14, 1840}
Arch Randall [signature]

I do hereby certify that William Holgate and Jacob Latch who have made the foregoing affidavits are credible witnesses.
Arch Randall [signature]
April 14 1840
Page 7

No 4.
On this fourth day of May A D 1840, appeared formally in the said before mentioned Open Court of Common Pleas before Edward King Esq Resident Judge thereof Abram Heston aged seventy one years, a resident of Blockley in Philadelphia County who being duly affirmed deposeth and saith that he is the son of Col. Edward Heston herein before mentioned by his first marriage:  that he knows Sarah Heston the forgoing petitioner and knows that she was the second & last wife of the said Edward Heston, to whom she was married about two years after the conclusion of the war of the revolution:  the precise date I do not recollect but am satisfied that it was one or two years after the peace and certainly within three years:  that she resided with the said Edward Heston as his wife from that time till his death:  - Affirmant knows that the said Edward Heston was actively engaged on the American side and in service during almost the whole of the war of the Revolution:  that he was a captain at the commencement of the war and afterwards a Colonel:  that he was in the camp with General Washington at the Valley Forge, and as affirmant understood and believed was a confidential agent of Gen. Washington:  That at the time of the battle of Germantown the said Edward Heston was dispatched with others under his command by Gen. Washington as affirmant always understood & verily believes for the purpose of cutting the rope at the middle ferry over the Schuylkill in Blockley Township which service he performed:  that afterwards Gen Washington having heard that the British Troops were about to leave Philad'a, dispatched the said Edward Heston to obtain information on the subject, on which occasion the said Col. Heston was attacked by the enemy wounded on the head by a sword and taken prisoner:  He retained the wound till his death.  He remained a prisoner a long time, nearly a year, and affirmant is confident that the time was fully nine months:  affirmant resided in the family of his father during the whole war:  and knows that his said father devoted his whole time to the American cause:  that his barn and fences were destroyed by the enemy:  who came fifteen or twenty times day & night & surrounded the house and searched for the said Edward Heston:  that he the said Edward never spent a night at home while the enemy was in Philadelphia, and all the nights put together which he spent at during the war would not amount to one year, and when he did come home it was occasionally, and during active service in the cause of the country.  The said Edward Heston died about sixteen years since.  Affirmant does not know of any other business that the said Edward Heston followed during the whole war except the service of his country, as a militia officer or volunteer.  Affirmant was present and saw the marriage of said Edward & Sarah Heston before Esquire Howell.
Abram Heston [signature]

Affirmed and subscribed in open court May 4th 1840
Edward King Resident Judge
First Judicial District of Pa

No 5
John Hall of Blockley aforesaid being duly affirmed in said court before the Hon Edward King resident Judge thereof deposeth & saith that affirmant lived in Blockely aforesaid within a mile of the residence of the said Col Heston during the whole war of the revolution, that he is a brother in law of said Col Edward Heston, that he knows the said Col. Heston was engaged in the American service in the said war in the militia or as a volunteer:  affirmant does not know the precise extent of the service of said Col Heston, but from his knowledge he believes that the absences of the said Col Heston from home and in the American service including the time of his imprisonment amounted to three years or upwards:  affirmant does not think he was at home one month together during the war, and when from home, as affirmant understood & believes, he was always in the service and much of the time engaged in watching the motions of the enemy and giving information -- Affirmant is a member of the society of friends aged eighty one years and upwards:  He knows the said Sarah Heston who is affirmants sister:  she was married to said Edward Heston shortly after the peace of 1783, certainly within three years after, and lived with him as his wife until his death about fifteen or twenty years since as I think, but cannot recollect the precise date.
John Hall
Affirmed & subscribed before me in open court May 4th A D 1840 and I do certify that the said Abraham Heston & John Hall are credible witnesses.
Edward King Resident Judge of District Penna
Page 8

No 6

David Coggins of Spring Garden Philad County, aged fifty two years being duly affirmed in the said open Court of Common Pleas before the Honourable [sic] Edward King President Judge thereof deposeth and saith that he married the daughter of Sarah Heston the foregoing petitioner, that he knew her & her said husband Edward Heston at the time they lived together and to the decease of the latter & that he knows that the said Sarah Heston has lived single as a widow from the time of the decease of said Edward Heston in 1824 ^ to this time, and  she has never since been married so far as the affirmant knows and verily believes.

David Coggins [signature]

Affirmed in open court        }
before me this 6th day of    }
May 1840, & I do hereby     }
certify that the said David    }
Coggins is a credible witness}
Edward King President          }
Judge First Judicial Dist.        }
State of Penna                       }

Pennsylvania             }
Philadelphia County } Ss

I Samuel Hart Esq. Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of said County do certify that the Hon Archibald Randall Esq. before whom in Open Court of Common Pleas the aforegoing declaration on affirmation and a part of the aforegoing affidavits were made - and by whom the aforegoing certifications made and given and whom his own proper handwriting has hereunto severally subscribed his name was at the time of so doing and now is one of the judges of the said Court of Common Pleas - and further certify that the Hon Edward king before
Page 9

When the remaining affidavits were made and who in his own proper hand writing has then unto Severally Subscribed his name was at the time of so doing and sworn Pesident Judge of said Court while being a Court of Record and Law, duly Commissioned and qualified - and that to all the acts of said Archibald Randall and Edward King as Judges aforesaid full faith and credit are and ought to be given as well in Courts as indication thereout.

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court at Philadelphia this 6th May A. D. 1840.

S. Hart Prothonotary
Page 10

[most of the page seems to be the back side of another page]

May '40



B   


Hon. Francis James
H R
Page 11

No 1

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
City & County of Philadelphia     Ss

On this twenty ^ eighth day of May AD 1840 personally appeared in the Open Court of Common Pleas in an for the said City & County before the Honourable [sic] Archibald Randall associate Judge thereof Abraham Heston aged seventy one years a resident of Blockley Township Phil [raised a] who being duly affirmed deposeth & saith that he is the same Abraham Heston son of Lt Col. Edward Heston deceased whose deposition has already been taken in support of the claim of Sarah Heston of Blockley aforesaid widow of said Edward Heston for a pension from the government of the United States, and he doth now in relation to the same matter further depose and say as follows: viz:  that his said father during the time of his service in the war of the revolution before spoken of by this deponent, generally was a uniform, first with one epaulet and afterwards I think with two:  the uniform, I think, was green turned up with buff he also generally carried a sword.  
I am confident that he actually wore the uniform in the ^ American service for more than four years.  I know that he had it on on the day when he was taken prisoner, and that he wore it home when he returned from Long Island after his imprisonment before mentioned. He was released from said imprisonment by an exchange, at the same time with Judge Lomers late of Philadelphia county deceased. I think he was acting under the orders of General Washington at the time he was captured.  Deponent is entirely satisfied from his own knowledge that the services of the said Edward Heston to which deponent was testified were of a military character.

Abram Heston [signature]

Affirmed & subscribed
(over)
Page 12

before me in open court
May 28th 1840                      No 2.

Arch [d] Randall
Judge Com Pleas


And also on the same day personally appeared in the said Court of Common Pleas before the said Honourable [sic] Judge, David Coggins of Spring Garden Phil [raised a] County aged (now) fifty three years, who being duly affirmed deposeth and saith that he is the same David Coggins whose deposition was formerly taken in relation to the claim of the said Sarah Heston for a pension, and he now in relation to the same matter further deposeth and saith that during the lifetime of Col. Edward Heston before named, husband of the said Sarah, this deponent often conversed with the said Edward Heston concerning his service in the war of the Revolution & his capture & imprisonment by the British forces:  that he understood from the conversation of the said Edward Heston that he devoted nearly seven years to the American service during the war, that the time was lost to him entirely:  deponent always understood of & believed that the service was of a military character.  He also understood from the said Col Heston that he generally wore his uniform in the said service, and recollects perfectly  that he stated that he had it on at the time of his capture aforesaid.

David Coggins [signature]

Affirmed & subscribed        }
before me in open Court     }
May 28 - 1840 &, I               }
do certify that the said        }
Abraham Heston and          }
David Coggins are credible }
witnesses.                            }

Arch Randall [signature]
Judge Com Pleas Ct
Page 13

Pennsylvania             }
Philadelphia County } Ss

I Samuel Hart Esq. Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of said County Do certify that the Hon. Archibald Randall before whom the aforegoing affidavit of Abram Heston
and David Coggins were made and who in his own proper hand writing has thereunto severally subscribed his name was at the time of so doing and now one of the Judges of the said Court of Common Pleas (which is a Court of Record and of Law, duly commissioned and qualified to all whose acts such full faith and Credit are and ought to be given as well in Courts of Indenture as thereon.

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said
Court at Philadelphia this 28th May 1840
Samuel Hart Prothonotary
per Joseph S. Tennery
Page 14

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D.C., March 5, 1894.

O. W. & N. Div.
F. S.
M. E. C. 

Sir:-

Referring to your request for the military history of Edward Heston, an officer of the Revolutionary war, I have the honor to advise you that his widow, Sarah, was granted a pension for his services in that war as a Lieutenant Colonel under Gen. Potter of the Pennsylvania Militia, from November 14, 1777, to January 3, 1778, he having entered the service from "Blockley", Philadelphia County. It is stated that he participated in a skirmish at Blockley where he was taken prisoner and held for about two months. No mention is made of any regular engagements in which he participated.

He married Sarah Hall, of Philadelphia, on November 18, 1784, and died February 14, 1824.

On April 14, 1840, the date of the widow's application for pension, she was a resident of "Blockley", Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, and seventy-six years of age.

Very respectfully,
Deputy Commissioner.
[To] 
Hon. Irving P. Wanger,
House of Representatives.
Page 15

[page torn off at top] [illegible]

To Archd Thomson ^ Esq.:  Lieut. of the County of Philad.

Heston, Edward
Penn W 3681
Page 16

Philadelphia June15th 1779
Sir,
Tho' I am extremely unwilling to disturb the repose and security which we now enjoy or create any unnecessary alarm, I cannot but think it my Duty to inform you of present appearances; and solicit a suitable attention and vigilance at this time, as the best and surest protection against danger. the Enemy have made an important movement up the North River, in consequence of which the Continental Army has followed them and are at a distance of at least 140 Miles, there is not any aparent [apparent] object sufficient to justify such a movement if the Fort at West Point is not attacked from which & other circumstances, many judicious and experienced Officers have supposed, and even his Excellency the Commander in Chief is not without his apprehension, that the whole is a Diversion to draw of the Continental army to a great distance, and avail themselves of the easy transportation afforded them by water to make a rapid incursion into the Country; and even attempt their City again if time and circumstances should be favorable, in this case, and prospect it becomes my duty and I do most earnestly request you, to make these Sentiments known to the Officers commanding Battalions, and urge them as a most necessary service to see that all the Army and accoutrements be procured within their reach and ready for Action, and that in these respects they consider themselves in eminent Danger of an attack and be prepared accordingly on the Shortest Notice. the Militia of New Jersey are now in this situation, if not actually, and those of New York have discovered great alacrity,
[End of letter page]
Page 17

[Letter continued from previous page]
Alacrity, and as in Case of any Movement of the Enemy toward this State. I shall with the Assent of the Council accompany the Militia to the Field, and partake of the Danger & Fatigue.
It would give me sensible mortification to see this State eclipsed by any other in it's [sic] forwardness and activity to repel the Enemy, at the same time all may be assured, (considering the season and other circumstances) nothing but the most urgent Necessity and apparent danger shall induce me to put their Zeal to the Tryal. [sic]

a True Copy~
I am with all due Regard your
Very Obt Sevt.
Joseph Reid
President
To Archd Thomson Esqr: Lieut. of the County of Phila.
Page 18

(illegible) Hist. to Hon. I. P. Wanger
Rep.
Jan. 27/98 J. Paxson
cy Hon Charles N. Brume
Wid pension allowed from March 4/36 to 1841.
1843 to 1848
1848 to death.  Nothing to show not paid.  Nothing more can be allowed.
White

Rev'y Widow, &c.
File No. 3681
Sarah Heston
Widow
Edward Heston
Pvt. Rev. War
Act:  Feb'y 2, 1848
Index: -- Vol. A, Page 323
{Arrangement of 1870.}
Page 19

Sarah Heston
of Edward
Pennsylvania 
Suspended
let 15 May 1840
Hon. Francis James
(illegible) 3rd June, 1840
same July 13, 1840. same Mar 17, 1842, do letters J Q. Adams Apl. 1, 1842
Nathan Leake Mar 18th 47
Let. to Hon. J. R. Ingersoll
Jan'y 22 '49
Act 7 July 1838
Page 20

Letter Hon. E. W. McGaughey Aug't 9/50
{letter} to same 6th September 1850

Cert of Pension to be sent to Hon E W McGaughey, H. R.
Dept (illegible)[page folded]
Aug 31 1850.
Page 21

8887 Phil
Pennsylvania.
---------------
Sarah Heston widow of Edward Heston
who was a Lieut. Colonel in the Revolution
for two years
--------------
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 600 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
--------------
Certificate of Pension issued the 3rd day of Sept. 30 and sent to
Hon. E. W. McGaughey
House of Reps
---------------
[Acts of March 3, 1843, & June 17, 1844.]

Recorded in Book: A
Vol. two Page 109
Page 22

10975. Phil.
Pennsylvania
--------------------
Sarah Heston
Widow of Edward Heston
who was a pensioner under the Act of _ and who died on the 14 February 1824 of Phila. Co. in the State of Penn[raised a] who was a Lieut. Col. in the _
commanded by Captain _ of the Regt commanded by Genl Potter in the _ line for 2 years
----------------------
Inscribed on the Roll of Philadelphia at the rate of 600 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
-----------------------
Certificate of Pension issued the 3rd day of Sept. 1850 and Sent to Hon. E. W. McGaughey, H.R.
------------------------
Total amount, $ _
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by 
J. P. Chase Clerk,
Book D. Vol. 1 Page 211
Page 23

July 31/

Hannah Hestor
Pa 10 a 38

W Allison
14

Hon
E.W. McGaughey
H.R.
Page 24

County of Philadelphia }
State of Pennsylvania    } Ss

On this 24th day of July 1850 before me the subscriber a [crossed out: "Justice of the Peace"] Alderman in and for the County aforesaid & made ^ affirmation & oath in due form of law that he is about 82 years of age, that he has always been a resident of said County, that he was 7 or 8 years of age when the war commenced. Thus 
a distinct of the events of the War so far as knowledge at the time. That Edward Heston whose widow now applies for a pension was at the commencement of the war an elected appointed Captain under Col. Hamilton, & afterwards appointed Lt. Col. under Col. Warner, who was also of the same neighborhood. That Col. Warner was not much in the service but that the said Edward Heston was out nearly all the time that he in company with a son of the said Col. Warner, was requested by Genl Washington (as he knew Heston and many friends in Phila,) to go then to procure information as to the the [sic] movements of the British & that on their return they were overtaken by a troop of horse & Warren being a citizen was released but the said Heston was taken prisoner before 
Genl Moore then in Phila. & confined in the Walnut St Prison until the British left. he was then taken to Long Island & was [illegible] of a threat of being sent to England to be tried for
treason he made his escape to N. Jersey & there house. That in consequence of his breaking his
parol [ ? ] of horses the British demanded him of Genl Washington, but Genl. Washington in order to save him was obliged to give up a Lt. Col.  in lieu of the said Edward Heston, that he has forgotten the name of the British officer which Genl Washington exchanged for said Heston. That after taken prisoner thinks that he was "did" to Genl Potter & has always believed that after his return from
Page 25

Long Island he continued as Lt. Col. during the remainder of the War and was always in active service as Lt. Col  during the whole time to and the American cause as an active officer. That in consequence of his active exertions against the British his property which was valuable at the commencement of the war was pillaged of his farming & every species of damage that could be done was done to his farm. & that when the War was ended his property was entirely ruined, & that the [crossed out: "only information that"] said Edward Heston was obliged to move his family within the American lines, when they were at "Valley Forge" for protection. & that these facts are believed by all the neighborhood who knew anything of the history of the times & as a matter of tradition.

Abraham Heston [signature]

Subscribed & affirmed before}
me this 24th day of July          }
1856.                                        }
James Allen                              }
Alderman                                 }
Justice of the Peace                  }

I Joel Jones Mayor the city of Philadelphia, do certify that James Allen whose name is above subscribed is an Alderman of West Philadelphia. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the said City to be affixed this twenty fourth day of July A.D. 1850.

Joel Jones Mayor [SEAL]
Page 26

House Representatives
July 27, 1850
I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Thos. J. Heston Esq. of my district, and I take pleasure in stating that he is a gentleman of intelligence and of great respectability. I should place the utmost reliance in any testimony that he might give. With his uncle Abraham Heston Esq. I am not personally acquainted, but judging of him by his family connection, I should not hesitate a moment in saying that I would defend in his testimony.
John Robbins Jr
4th Dis. Pa.
Page 27

County of Philadelphia }
State of Pennsylvania    }

On this 26th day of July 1850 personally appeared before me the subscriber an alderman [justice of the peace crossed out] duly authorized by law to administer oath Thomas J Heston who being by me duly (affirmed) deposes & says that he is about 67 years of age that he was well acquainted with Edward Heston who was an officer of the Revolutionary War.  that from the earliest of his recollection the service of this Edward Heston & of Thomas Heston who was also an officer of said deponents father was a subject of frequent family conversations.  that he recollects distinctly of hearing the said Edward Heston say and in conversation with said deponent and others.  further, that the said Edward Heston was first a captain in the Revolutionary at its commencement.  that shortly before William Hamilton who lived near said Edward Heston was Col. at the commencement of the War & that the said Edward Heston was captain under said Col. Hamilton (that he ^ has an indistinct recollection that Edward Heston was Aid De Camp to 
Genl Potter when he was taken prisoner & taken to Long Island.)  the property of the said Edward Heston was within 4 or 5 miles from the City of Philadelphia & in consequence of his action since during the War he was an especial mark of British hatred & that they destroyed all his fencing & pillaged his property as much as possible & in order to prevent their burning of his house he procured someone to remain in his house.  he having moved his family within the American lines, several miles West of his residence in order to protect them from the insults & injury of the British.  that the above facts are notorious as matters of tradition in the neighborhood as also is this, fact that he was out as
Page 28

an officer first a captain & then Lt Col. through the whole war. I further that he recollects distinctly of hearing the said Edward Heston say that he was wounded on the hand (having frequently seen the scar on his hand) when taken prisoner. That when taken, he was confined in the Walnut St. Prison & when the British left Phila they took him to Long Island where he remained about 7 months; that he had all his life known more or less of the circumstances of his escape from Long Island, which was in the following manner, that the [illegible] was [illegible] and that in
consequence for threat from the British officers
to send him to England to be tried for treason the got into a boat & under dark of night made their way across the island to the Jersey Shore & [illegible] that after returning the British threatened to take [illegible] upon other American prisoners for ^ breaking their bounds on [illegible] of [illegible] Genl. Washington was obliged to give up to the British a Lt. Col., as an exchange for the return of the said Edward Heston, (that his recollection of the last fact is indistinct) & that he verily believes that no friends are more credibly believed as a matter of tradition than the foregoing in the neighborhood

Thomas J Heston [signature]

Subscribed & affirmed              }
before me this 24th day of July }
1850.                                          }
James Allen                                }
Alderman                                    }
Justice of the Peace, [crossed out]

I, Joel Jones, Mayor of the City of Philadelphia do certify, that James Allen whose name is subscribed above, is an Alderman of West Philadelphia. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & caused the seal of the said City to be affixed the day & year above written

Joel Jones Mayor [SEAL]
Page 29

Senate Chamber
July 27th 1850

This is to Certify that I was acquainted with Thos. J. Heston Esq. while a member of The Legislature many years since, our acquaintance has been occasionally renewed at different times since. I can with great pleasure vouch for the Credibility of Mr. Heston an [sic] for his good standing in Society every credit should be given to his testimony
Danl. Sturgeon
Page 30

Edward heston Lt. Col.
J [signature illegible]
E.
5
Page 31

Dear Sir
From the tenure of the enclosed address of his
Excellency the President, and from other Circumstances, there appears eminent danger of a sudden strike from the enemy on this state-- In this situation, it is highly necessary, that we exert ourselves in procuring arms, accoutrements &c. and be prepared for action on the shortest notice. I have wrote to all the Captains in my Battalion, advising them to be attentive and vigilent [sic] on the occasion; and I most earnestly solisite [sic]you to put his Excellencys [sic] request in Immediate Execution in your District.

July 7th 1779
I am your Hble Servt

Isaac Warner Col

Edwd. Heston Lt. Col.
Page 32

"In Council"
"Philadelphia August 10th 1779
"Present, his Excellency Joseph Reed, Esquire
"President Honbe. George Bryan Esquire Vice President.
"Mr. Mackey, Mr Read, Mr Hambright and
"Mr. Urie.
"An Order issued to Lieutenant Colonel
"Edward Huston for Two hundred Dollars for
"services done to General Potter, from the fourteenth
"of November, One thousand seven hundred and "seventy seven to the third of January One thousand
"seven hundred and seventy eight, as certified by the
"said General at four dollars pr day." ---------

Pennsylvania SS
Secretarys office

I do certify that the above and foregoing is a true Extract from "Minutes of Council" Volume II page 67 as the same remains of record in this office

Witness my hand and seal of said Office at Harrisburg the fifth day of March A.D. One thousand eight hundred and forty, and of the Commonwealth the sixty-fourth.
F. R. Shunk
Secry  Commth [commonwealth]
Page 33

left-hand side of page]

12

[right-hand side of page]
[upside down]

[checkmark] April 25. 1850
Hon: E. W.  McGaughey
Request an early decision of the claim of Sarah Heston.

[right-side up]
E.W. McGaughey
M. C

Hon. T. Ewing
Secy of the Interior
Page 34

[left-hand side of page]

[check mark] April 25. 1850
Hon: E. W. McGaughey
Request an early decision of the claim of Sarah Heston.

Hon. T. Ewing
Secy of the Interior

E. W. McGaughey
M. C

[right-hand side of page]
12
Page 35

April 25th 1850.
Hon. Secy. of the Intr
Sir
This morning I called to see you for the purpose of requesting an early decision of the case of Sarah Heston Application for a pension; but finding you engaged I take the liberty of calling your attention to the case in this mode. I believe it is one of the oldest undecided cases before you.
Your Obt. Servt.
E.W. M Gaughey
Page 36

Fb 17 '47
L OM
Ada to case
Sarah Heston,
3:55
Hon J. L. Edwards
Com of Pensions
Present
Page 37

Washington Feby 15 1847

Sir

I enclose herewith additional evidence of the service of ^ Col Edward Heston to be used in the application of Mrs Sarah Heston of Penn: for a pension, also her power of atty, to Mr Joy, assigned by him to me, the parties in this case are very anxious that the case should be finally decided on upon present exhibits as they are not aware of any other evidence that can be had in it. I should be pleased to see the papers on file, if consistent with the regulations of your office.

I am Very Respectfully
Your obt Servant
Nathan Leake

P. S. I also enclose a similar power in the case of Hannah Heston of Tenn, authorizing a compromise if the office is not satisfied that a full pension is due.
I am &c.
N.L.
Hon J. L. Edwards
Com of Pensions
Present
Page 38

I assign my agency to N Leake Esq
Arad Joy
Page 39

To Hon J. L. Edwards
Comm. of pensions
I have appointed Arad Joy of Ovid New York my agent, to investigate my claim to a pension you will therefore communicate the situation of my claim to him
Sarah Heston
Dated Phila Nov 14th 1846
Page 40

P
Sarah Heston
Pa
M Cole.
Page 41

Washington City DC
29th March 1851

Hon J. E. Heath
Commissioner of Pensions

Sir
At the request of Mrs. Sarah Heston (widow of Lt Col Edward Heston late of Pa., deceased) who is now a pensioner under the act of 7th July 1858 & subsequent acts, to ask that the original Marriage Certificate filed in her application for Pension may be returned to her. It being the only evidence extant of her marriage to the Lieut Edward Heston, decsd.   Cannot the office be fully protected by taking a copy & certifying it & return the original? If this is not acceptable, be pleased to cause a copy to be taken and certified under the Seal of the Secretary of the Interior & forwarded to me.
Your vy Respectfull V
S. A. Peugh
Page 42

May 17 1842
Sarah Heston
Pa
J. L. Edwards Esq
Comm. of Pensions
Washington
Hon. Fra James
HR
F. James 
H.R.
Page 43

House of Representatiives
March 16: 1842
Sir
Some time ^ since I laid before you, certain papers connected with the application of Sarah Heston of Pennsylvania for a Pension, on account of the Revolutionary services of her Husband, Edward Heston decd.

Among these papers were some of a private character, such as her marriage Certificate, a letter or two written in the time of the Revolution and perhaps some others.

Mrs Heston is extremely desirous to re-possess
these private papers.-

If the re-delivery of these papers is discretionary with the Commissioner of Pensions, he will much oblige Mrs Heston by enclosing them to me, so that I may present them to her.

Very Respectfully
Yours &c
Francis James [signature]

J. L. Edwards Esq     }
Comm. of Pensions  }
Page 44

June 1 1840
[illegible]
Heston
J. L. Edwards Esqr
Comm. of Pensions
Hon. Fra. James, H.R.
Page 45

House of Representatives
June 1st 1840

Sir

The enclosed, as you will perceive; contains additional testimony relative to the claim of Sarah Heston, widow of Edward Heston an officer of the Revolutionary army; whose case as you lately informed me was filed among the suspended cases in your office.

I am very respectfully
Your &c
Francis James [signature]

J. L. Edwards Esqr.   }
Comm. of Pensions }
Page 46

M Ames
Page 47

Copy of
Department of the Interior
August 31st 1850.

Sir,
In the case of Sarah Heston widow of Edward Heston, deceased, the Secretary of the Interior on the 2d day of July last, in his letter to the Hon. E. W. McGaughey, stated, that he was satisfied that Edward Heston was a Lieutenant Colonel and an officer of a lower grade, but that there was not further evidence to show how long he served, or what was his rank when he was exchanged that the records at Harrisburgh [sic] should be examined for that purpose. The certificate of the Auditor of the State of Pennsylvania now filed shows that there is no documentary evidence of Hestons service at Harrisburgh. [sic]

Under these circumstances (there being no higher evidence) the found testimony is now admitted, and is deemed sufficient to establish more than two years service at Lieut. Colonel.
Page 48

I am very respectfully
Your obdt Servant.
D. C. Goddard
Acting Secretary
J. L. Edwards Esq,
Com of Pensions,
Page 49

No 7006
Sarah Heston
ww of Edward
Pa
act 7 July 1838
--------------------
Adm.
2 years Lieut Col
$400.00 paid
from 4 March 1821 to 4 March 41. [illegible] act 3 March 43
17 Mar 4 [cents]
2 July 48
$400.00 per an
per 4 March 1843
----------------------
Hon E W McGaughey
House of Reps
Page 50

Pension Office
September 1850
Sir
I have the honor to inform you

[rest of page blank]
Page 51

P & S
Washington City 3rd Sept 1850
Hon. J. L. Edwards
Comm of Pensions
Sir
In the case of Sarah Heston a widow of Lieut Col. Edward Heston application for a pension and allowed, you will please issue and enclose the Certificate of pension to me. I have every reason to believe from letters in my posesion that the said Sarah Heston is now living and I have no doubt of the fact.
Your obt. servt.
E.W.McGaughey
Page 52

July 11. 1840
Sarah Heston 
pa susp

[written sideways]
J. L. Edwards Esq
comm. of Pensions

Hon. Francis James
H R
Page 53

House of Representatives
July 11th 1840

Sir -
The enclosed from Mr. Earle, contains, so you will see; an order for the delivery to me of certain papers connected with the claim of Mrs. Sarah Heston to a Pension -

If the removal of these papers, be not inconsistent with the regulations of your office, please forward them to me. -
Very respectfully,
Yours &c
Francis James [signature]

J. L. Edwards Esqr
Comm of Pensions
Page 54

Jan 27, 1898

In reply to the personal inquiry of Hon. Chas. N. Brumm you are informed that Sarah Heston was allowed a pension of $600 per year for a period of five years from March 4, 1836, under the provisions of the act of congress approved July 7, 1838; renewed for a period of five years from March 4, 1843, under the acts of March 4, 1843, and June 7, 1844; and at the expiration of the period renewed for life, or during widowhood, under the act of February 2, 1848. There is nothing in the files of this Bureau to show that the pension was not paid to the date of her death; but in any event there is no law under which any part of the pension due her could be allowed to any ^ of her descendants.
There is no law granting pension to the daughters of soldiers of the Revolutionary war.
Page 55

The Hon Mr McGauley says he put into the hands of the court in person a similar certificate prior to the 21 Aug 1850 the date of Carus's Report.
5
S. A. Peugh Esq
Washington City D. C.
[stamp:] HARRISBURG Pa. AUG 27
Page 56

The Hon Mr McGauley says he put into the hands of the court in person a similar certificate prior to the 21 Aug 1850 the date of Carus's Report.
5
S. A. Peugh Esq
Washington City D. C.
[stamp:] HARRISBURG Pa. AUG 27
Page 57

Auditor General's Office,
Harrisburg, Aug. 26. 1820.
Dear Sir
In answer to your communication of the 23rd inst. I have to state that further search has been made in the department for evidence of the service of St. Col. Edward Heston in the wat of the revolution, but without success. Of course no certificate can be given unless there was something in the case to certify to.
Yours very resp'y
Jno W Hammond
Chief Clerk
S . A. Peugh, Esq