Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 10,722, William Gamble, New Jersey
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New Jersey Gamble, William S 10.722 carded
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Jan 15 1833
174
Dist of Columbia
William Gamble
of Washington Cy in the act of Columbia
who was a Major in the commanded
by Captain of the Regiment commanded
by Colonel
in the New Jersey State
line, for the term of during the War
from
1716 to 17xx
Inscribed on the Dist of of Columbia
at the rate of 100 per annum, to
commence on the 4 day of March 1880

Certificate of Pension issued the 4 of August 1832
and delivered to
Major W Gamble
Arrears to 4th of March 1832 $600:
Semi-anl. all'ce ending 4 Sep.
300
$900

Revolutionary Claim Acts  June 1832
Recorded Book D. Vol 8
B. B
page 160
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Admitted
John Robb
Lt. to [illegible]
Augt. 4 1832
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Declaration

District of Columbia }
Washington County } To wit,
On this the thirty first day of July 1832 personally appeared at Chambers before
William French Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of the District of Columbia the County of
Washington Major William Gamble resident in the City of Washington and District aforesaid
aged seventy four years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7, 1832. That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated as follows. That in the year 1776 he was appointed by William Livingston the Governor of the State of New Jersey Brigade Major and Adjutant to act under Brigadier Genl Philamon Dickerson That the
said Genl. at the same time issued to the deponent an order for four full companies to be
detailed for immediate service at Perth Amboy. That the order was put in execution without delay and the companies marched to their place of destination That the deponent accompanied Genl. Dickerson to Perth Amboy and Joined Generals Mercer and Roberdeau making their  headquarters in the Government House That some time after this Wm. Franklin and two other Commissioners served at Amboy from Philadelphia to meet Lord Howe and other commissioners on the part of Great Britain who agreed to meet on Staten Island in Bishop House near the point. That the deponent was directed to take Capt. Sterlings uniformed company and one of the large battery with a flag of truce and escort the Commissioners to the point of the Island which duty deponent performed. That upon the breaking up of the meeting of Commissioners who did not agree upon certain points the deponent conveyed them back to Amboy.  That the deponent has engaged in the affair near Princetown, that he was attached to the reserve of troops who marched from Trenton and was charged by Genl. St. Clair with keeping the encampment well lighted while the main body of the troops left there for Princetown. That Genl. Mercer was 
killed in the battle near the College at the latter place and that after this engagement the Troops filed off to Morris County where they  quartered or hutted for the winter.  That Genl. Putnam was left in command at Princetown and issued an order about the last of January 1777 requiring a certain portion of the Militia of Burlington County to be marched to Princetown to escort the Quakers and now combatants to Headquarters, the object of the Genl. being as was understood to make those persons do duty as a fatigue party as they refused to bear arms. The duty of superintending them [illegible] fell as the deponent says, upon him and they were employed to cut
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wood for the troops during the winter.  The deponent says that some time in March of this year 1777 the Queens Rangers commanded by Col. Simcoe made a forced march up the Raritan to destroy a flotilla of Batteaux but was attacked on his return to Staten Island had his horse killed and was himself wounded. That while the militia were rushing upon his with the bayonet the deponent saved his life and sent him and his Surgeon in a baggage wagon to Bordentown on parole as prisoners of war.  That the employment of deponent was constant and that he was at all times subject to the orders of Governor Livingston through the deponents commander Genl. Philamon Dickerson.  That he was often obliged to perform arduous duty on
suppressing the Tories in Monmouth County and in repelling the incursions of the refugees who were constantly attacking the whigs. That the deponent rec'd in 1777 as order to detail a party of Militia with two baggage waggons and and march them into Bergen County and collect every fourth Petticoat of striped Jersey on which duty he collected a large quantity which were used for the Jersey Militia who were  destitute of warm clothing. That deponent also detailed other parties for similar service in other Counties in the State. That the deponent while
the enemy occupied Philadelphia performed the double duty of Brigade Major and Adjutant of the State of New Jersey and was constantly employed. That when the men marched through New Jersey the deponent was ordered to encourage the men in defending the Bridge over Crosswicks Creek and while executing  those orders received a gun shot in the breast which wounded him severely.

That as soon as the wound was healed the deponent was again on horseback in the service and held all the commissions mentioned doing duty in the service of the State  until the close of the War.

That the deponent is it not in his power to produce his commissions as they together with other military documents were lodged in the War Department and received by John Stag who was the chief Clerk that he has reason to believe they were afterwards destroyed when the War Office in Washington City was burned.

That there is however at present "ample evidence in the war department that Deponent was wounded on the breast in June 1778. That this evidence consists of the proof by Capt. Vandeventer who was the officer commanding the men at the defense of Crosswick Creek,
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Third
Where were you living when called into service: where have you lived since the Revolutionary war: and where do you now live
Answer.- He lived in Burlington in N. Jersey when called into service. Since the revolutionary war he has lived in the State of
N. York, and for the last 20 years in the District of Columbia, where he now lives.-

Fourth   How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer or were you a substitute and if a Substitute for whom.
Answer - By an appointment of Gov. Livingston of N. Jersey as a Brigade major and adjutant of Genl. Dickerson's brigade of Jersey Militia.

Fifth     State the names of some of the regular officers who were with the troops when in service; such continental and militia regiments as you can recollect and the general circumstances of your service.
Answer. This interrogatory in answered in the preceding declaration.

Sixth. Did you ever receive a commission and if so by whom was it signed and what has become of it.
Answer. He had a commission from Gov. Livingston as before stated. It was deposited in the War department in Philadelphia - transmitted to the War office in Washington - & probably, [illegible] with the office.

Seventh   State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood and who can testify to your character for veracity and their belief of your services as a soldier of the revolution.
Answer - John Chalmers, and David Brearly, and others.
William Gamble

Sworn and subscribed
this 31st of July 1832
before me
W. Cranch

And the said William Cranch Chief Judge of said Court do hereby declare my opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant William Gamble was a revolutionary soldier and served as he states. And the said Judge
further certifies that of appears to him that John Chalmerswho has signed the preceding certificate is a Clergyman resident of the City of Washington and
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That he is not now aware of the existence of any person who can declare or State a personal knowledge of the services of this deponent but that the deponent has sincerely set forth a detail of facts and circumstances which he believes will supplant the place of any such testimony.

And the deponent hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the agency of any State and that he only receives a pension from the U. States for the wound he received at the defence of the Bridge on Crosswicks Creek which is all the annuity pay or pension he receives either 
from a state or States or from the Government  of the U. States.
William Gamble

Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
W. Cranch

We John Chalmers a Clergyman residing in Washington City and David Brearly residing in the same place hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Major William Gamble who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration: that he believe him to be seventy four years of age: that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution and that we concur in that opinion.

Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Jno. Chalmers
D. Brearley

The following interrogatories were then propounded by the said Chief Judge to the said
applicant William Gamble who answered as annexed to each question  .

First
Where and in what year were you born
Answer - In Dublin in Ireland in the year 1758.

Second   Have you any record of your age and if so where is it.
Answer. No.-
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that David Brearly who has also signed the 
same is a resident of the said City and is a credible person and that their statement is entitled to credit.  And the said Chief Judge also certifies that the applicant William Gamble appears to labor under bodily infirmity, that there is no Court now in session here before which he can make his deposition & that there will not be any or some months.  That he is now infirm and the course now taken for deposing to this statement seems to be the only one he can pursue under the present circumstances,
W. Cranch

I William Brent Clerk of Circuit Court of the District of Columbia for the County of Washington do hereby certify that William Cranch who has subscribed the foregoing certificate is Chief Judge of the said Court and that the signature annexed hereto his
genuine signature.

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of said Court this he 31st day of July in the year 1832.
William Brent Clk
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Totl.
Half pay of a Major
-------



    1
    1
    1
_____
    3
  25
_____
$75.3
     3.33
______
$78.33
________

       25
         4
______
30|100 (333
       90
______
     100 
       90
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He further deposeth-
That when the British Army evacuated Philadelphia and passed through New Jersey to New York in June 1778 he was acting as Major of Brigade under Brigadier General Dickinson, who commanded the Militia of that State. Information was received by the vidits[?] that
was watching the movements of the Enemy that their advance guard were approaching towards the draw Bridge.  The General ordered him to detach a party of Volunteers with a Judicious officer to command them, and place them in the entrenchment at the end of the drawbridge. Captain Van Deventer volunteered his services and sixty of his Company also volunteered and marched with him to the Drawbridge. The left flank guard of the enemy had already taken a position on the opposite side of the Bridge, a party was repairing the draw, which we had demolished in the morning.

There was no possibility of restraining Capt
Van Deventers men, seeing the Enemy on the Bridge within Pistol shot of the breast work, one of them without orders fired his piece, which was returned with grape shot from two field pieces, and a shower of Musketry from the opposite side of the Creek. The party who were repairing the draw were mostly shot down, those places were supplyed by others with as little success- two pieces of field artillery were sent from the cantonment by order of the General which opened upon the enemy, which obliged him to abandon the Bridge, about sunset, he filed off towards Monmouth.
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During the skirmish received a gunshot wound in my breast, twelve of the party was also wounded, some of them severely. Towards evening he was nearly ex[h]austed with fatigue
and loss of blood, inasmuch that it was with some difficulty he was able to proceed to the cantonment. Col. Hampton came to the cantonment about nine in the evening with orders from the Commander in Chief, (with an order for the Jersey Militia) to march without delay towards Allentown in Monmouth County and harrass [sic] as much as possible the left plank Guard of the enemy. The Troops marched immediately, with much difficulty he was able to accompany them, after his wound was dressed and bound up, he believes that under any other circumstances but that of a zealous patriotic mind could have endured the pain and fatigue he suffered. The following day the Militia took several strag[g]lers and followers of the enemy, together with a considerable number of Cattle, and plundered effects belonging to the Citizens. The next day was the battle of Monmouth very hot indeed after which the Militia was discharged from any further duty at that time.  He was nearly overcome towards
evening by the intence [intense] heat of the weather, dust, and loss of blood, when I was wounded, after the excitement had ceased
he found himself laboring with a very high fever.

He was taken in a carriage to his house in Burlington County unable to ride on horseback, he was confined to his bed and Room from this time untill the following spring, when he began to have some hope of a shattered recovery.

In the session of this year, he was appointed a majistrate [magistrate] of the County where he resided, his wound was yet painful with
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Every change of weather, or severe exercise. He remained in a State of debility untill the close of the war, he was advised by his Surgeon to try a southern voyage as a warm climate might be serviceable. He purchased a Virginia Schooner afast sailer, and fitted her for the fore trade
on the Spanish Main. He was induced the more
readily to adopt this plan, as it promised both health and profit, and probably reimburse him in some degree for the loss of a valuable patrimonial Estate which he very imprecedently disposed of for Continental currency, which
sunk in his hands. He arrived in the West Indies in 1784, engaged a Master who had been a few voyages on the Spanish Main, and as soon as his outfits was ready he sailed from Jamaica for the main. He made several successful voyages, the risque was great, but the profits so
alweing that nothing was wanting but Courage, and ruined fortune to engage in it.  He acquired in the course of three years upwards of three thousand pounds sterling which he deposited with a Merchant, who did his business in Jamaica who did his iendeavor, to appearance to serve him in the sale of Mules and Horses brought up from the Main.  If he had known when to stop, prudence would have pointed this period, he attempted one more voyage, but a loss here uncertain is everything in this life, he was taken by a Spanish guard a Coasta, Sloop of war, in Matanza Bay, himself and crew carried to the Havanah, and his vessel and Merchandize sent to the north end of the Island.
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He was detained here, for nearly two years, confined to the Town under the responsibility of a Mr Hows a merchant who formerly lived in Philadelphia and being a Strict Catholic stood well with the Governor. His people were sent to Vara Cruz and from thence to the mines of Patosy, it was not in my power to render them any relief, he expostulated with the Municipality
without success, and was told he ought to bless Don J. Hews, and the Vice Roy for saving him from the mines.-

He had permission to return to the U.S. 1789 and procured a passage to St Augustine, from thence he found a vessel bound to Savanna in Georgia, where he met with several of his former acquaintance, among the rest a relation Major Fishbowen, the Brigade Major to General
Wayne.  He remained a few weeks with his friend and expressed a wish to visit Benjamin Postell of Santee in South Carolina. Major Fishbowen furnished him with two horses and a servant, he left Savana and was conducted
to Mr Postells, where he met a most hospitable welcome.

He remained with this valuable find upwards
of two month, enjoying all the comfort and happiness that could be wished for, in fact we were like brothers, having been near seven years school fellows, and roomates at Burlington Academy New Jersey. Here is a proof of his generous noble soul, when it was suggested for him to return to Jersey to induce me to remain with him made an offer of a Tract of land near him with negroes to work it; such are the noble principles which has ever distinguished the Citizens of South Carolina - how seldom to be met in other countries,
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Imperious circumstances waged his departure he had an affectionate wife and three small children in New Jersey, he was obliged to tear himself from his truly beloved friend Postell, after receiving from him such marks of disinterested attention which never can be
forgotten by grateful heart. He returned to New Jersey in 1789 where he remained on a small farm which with an agency he had from Robert Morris Esquire of the City of Philadelphia for the sale of Lands in western part of the State of Pennsylvania, and also in the State New York.

This agency afforded him, means which enabled him to support his family comfortably
but unfortunately the fall of this worthy Citizen
the credit of his paper soon ceased to circulate and his agency with it. He being one of those evil Citizens who was hostile to gag laws, and excise duty, he determined to remove his family to the Genesee Country, which he did determining to prefer the solitude of the forest, to a Government, which he feared was fast verging to anything but republicanish-

He settled on the margin of the River Niagara at and near a place now called Lewistown some short time after this an act of Congress passed
making Fort Niagara a port of entry and delivery. He received an appointment from the Collector as Inspector for Lewistown it being the head of the Navigation-
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He further declares that he was employed for nearly two years in the Customs in this district, that he was told his compensation would be two dollars pr day Sundays excepted, that he was
never paid any part of this emolument during the time he was employed in the district of Niagara, preferring the receipt of it at the seat of the General Government.  This was one of the reasons why he came to the seat of Government, among others, was his claim upon the United States for a pention [pension] which he ever believed he was in Justice entitled to when ever his circumstances in life required it.

He had other reasons his eldest son having expressed a desire for the Navy employment, his friends in New Jersey made application and was appointed a Midshipman, and soon after went to the Mediterranean.

He lost an affectionate wife in 1806 during his residence in the west, his other three sons
being desirous to follow there brothers profession, as soon as their Education justified it he got into the Navy, the want of society  induced him to come to New Jersey in 1807.
He came to Washington during the winter season some time after this he was employed by the head of the Navy department as superintendent of the Powder Magazine of the Navy of the United States--  He continued in this Employ untill the Hon. Paul Hamilton retired from office. He was not in Government employ
after this time.
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He was not employed by Gover[n]ment untill the close of the late war, when President Madison was pleased to appoint him Collector of Michellimakina, he went on this duty when he found the climate too severe for him, he was obliged the following year to leave the north and returned to Washington.  1816 he was
Commissioned by the President and the
consent of the Senate, Consul of the Island of St. Ustatia but certain reasons has hitherto prevented his entering upon the duties of this appointment. He is at this present time in the City of Washington Feby 1819.

On this 31st day of May 1820 personally appeared before me the subscriber William Gamble, and made oath, that the foregoing declaration and the several facts stated therein are true.

Given under my hand the day and year aforesaid.
B. Thruston
Asst Judge & afs
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War Department,
May 31, 1820
Mr Edwards is directed to place the
name of
Wm Gamble on the pension list, the testimony of
Captain Vandeventer being deemed sufficient as to
Major Gambles wound
J. C. Calhoun
to be sufficient in the case, to entitle him
to a pension under the acts of April 1806 and
May 1820. that the said papers have been
lost or mislaid;
and as it is uncertain by whom
whether the said
Gamble or myself, I deem
it proper to file this certificate until the said
papers can be found.
J. L. Edwards
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Washington, May 31, 1820.
I hereby certify that the papers containing the testimony of Captain Vendeventer and
two Surgeons, the former
taken in the State of New York
- and the latter in Philadelphia, in relation to
the wound and present disability of Major Wm
Gamble, was deposited in the War
Dept. and decided by the Secretary of War
to be sufficient in the case, to entitle him
to a pension under the acts of April 1806 and
May 1820 that the said papers have been
lost or mislaid; and as it is uncertain by whom,
whether the said Gamble or myself, I deem
it proper to file this certificate until the said
papers can be found
J. L. Edwards
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May 3, 1937
William Gamble S. 10722 BA-J/AWF
The Quartermaster General
Memorial Branch
War Department
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your request for the Revolutionary War record of Major William Gamble, of New Jersey Militia, War of the Revolution.
The data furnished herein were obtained from papers on file in pension claim, S. 10722, based upon disability and service of William Gamble during the Revolutionary War.
William Gamble was born in the year 1758 in Dublin, Ireland. The names of his parents were not given, nor was it stated when he arrived in this country.
While a resident of Burlington County, New Jersey, William Gamble was appointed Brigadier Major of the New Jersey Militia and served under Brigadier General Philemon Dickinson, from sometime in 1776, and at the time of the battle of Trenton, had charge of keeping the encampment well lighted, while the main army left for Princeton, was in a skirmish near the Raritan, in several expeditions against the Tories, was severely wounded in the left breast in June 1776 at Cross Wicks Creek, was at the battle of Monmouth, after which he became so weak from loss of blood, had to be carried home, and was not afterward able to return to active duty in the army.
After the Revolution he moved with his family to
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Genesee County, New York and settled near Lewiston, and was appointed Inspector of Customs, which he hald about two years. He was appointed by President Madison, Collector of "Miohellimaokina", which he held about one year, and in 1816 was appointed Consul to the Island of St. Eustatia, but was unable to accept this appointment.
William Gamble was allowed pension from May 31, 1820, on account of disability resulting from the wound referred to herein; he was at that time living in Washington, District of Columbia. He was, also, allowed pension under the Act of June 7, 1832.
While living in Washington, he was "Superintendent of the Powder Magazine of the Navy of the United States". He died January 15, 1833.
William Gamble's wife and three small children were living in 1789 in the State of New Jersey. His wife died in the year 1806. His eldest son was appointed, about 1811, Midshipman and went to the Mediterranean; three other sons were referred to, and it was stated in 1818, that all of his sons were in the service of "our country". Names of wife and children were not stated, not was it shown when and where William Gamble married.
Reference was made in 1820 to a Major Fishbourne of Savannah, Georgia, a relative of Major William Gamble, also to an uncle (a bachelor) in England, name of uncle not given.
The papers in this claim contain no further reference to family.
The application for headstone for Major William Gamble is returned herewith. There waws no correspondence enclosed.
Very truly yours
A. D. Hiller
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
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[left side]
Revy War      10722
INVALID.
----------------
File No. 10,722
William Gamble
Major Rev. War
----------------
Act: June 7th 1832.
Index:--Vol. A, Page 138 

[Arrangement of 1870.]

[right side]
19[illegible] May 3 hist to memorial
Br[illegible]
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Payable semi-annually---the payment on this certificate will be made on the 4th of September next at the Branch Bank U.S. Washington City---


Recorded
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WAR DEPARTMENT.

INVALID PENSION.

I CERTIFY That, in conformity with the Laws of the United Staes, of the 10th of April, 1806, continued in force by Laws of 25th of April, 1812, and of the 15th of May, 1820, -------
William Gamble---- late a Major of militia ---- in the Army U.S. during Revy. War is inscribed on the Pension List, Roll of the Dist. of Columbia Agency, at the rate of twenty five dollars per month, to commence on the thirty first day of May one thousand eight hundred and twenty.

GIVEN at the War Office of the United States, this thirty first day of May one thousand eight hundred and twenty.

J.C. Calhoun
Secretary of War.
[seal affixed at left]
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Original Claim.

UNITED STATES.

Columbia DISTRIC, ss.

I, Buckner Thruston Judge of the circuit COURT of the United States of America for the said District, by Authority of an act of Congress, passed the 25th day of April, 1812, entitled "An Act to revive and continue in force An Act to provide for persons who were disabled by known wounds received in the Revolutionary War, and for other purposes," do hereby especially authorise and commission Richard Renshaw Esq. of the county of Philadelphia and District of Pennsylvania to take all evidence pursuant to the rules and regulations of the said act for substantiating the claim of Major William Gamble of the town of Washington in the county of Washington and district of Columbia to be placed on the Penson List of the United States, by reason of known wounds received in said war, or since, (as prescribed in the 4th section of "An Act concerning invalid pensioners," passed the 25th of April, 1808,) while in the actual service of the United States, and in the line of his duty.  And when the same shall be completed, to return the evidence, affidavits, certificates and proceedings had hereupon, together with this commission, to the Secretary for the Department of  War.

GIVEN under my hand and seal at Washington City the 25----- day of February in the year one thousand eight hundred and 12.

B. Thruston
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['Increase of Pension' crossed out]

UNITED STATES.

Pennsylvania DISTRICT, ss.
County of Philadelphia
To Doctor Thomas Harris - of U.S. Navy - and Doctor Samuel B. Smith - of U.S. Army in Philadelphia, in said Districct.

Pursuant to An Act of Congress of the United States, -assed the 25th of April, 1812, entitled "An Act to revive and continue in force An Act to provide for persons who were disabled by known wounds received in the Revolutionary War, and for other purposes," you are hereby appointed and authorised to examine William Gamble ----- who is inscribed on the Pension List of the United States, and is claimant for an increase of pension conformably to the 5th section of the act of the 10th of April, 1806, revived as aforesaid, and you are to report in writing and on oath or affirmation, your opinion of the nature of his disability and in what degree it prevents him from obtaining a subsistance [sic] by manual labor; and in your proceedings in the premises you are to be regulated and governed by said act.

GIVEN under my hand and seal at Philadelphia aforesaid this tenth day of July in the year one thousand eight hundred and nineteen--

Rich. Renshaw  {L  S }
Commissioner
and Justice of Peace
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Military District,
(Date)

IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED, That William Gamble
formerly a Major of Brigade in the Regiment of United States in the State of N. Jersey is disabled incapable of performing the duty of a soldier, by reason of wounds or other injuries
inflicted while he was actually in the service aforesaid, and in the line of his duty, viz: As appears by the oath of Captain Van Deventer and
By satisfactory evidence and accurate examination, it appears, that on the [blank] day of June in the year 1778 being engaged with the Enemy at or near a place called Croswick Bridge in the State of New Jersey he received a gun shot wound --- in his left breast, the ball entering near the clavicle and passing through the chest to the right pass where it now remains,  and he is thereby in the opinion of 
the undersigned, Totally disabled from obtaining his subsistence by manual labor.

Thos. Harris Surgeon in the Navy of the U. States
Samuel B. Smith Surgeon U.S. Army

N. B. The blank in the last the but one is to be filled up with the proportional "Degree" of disability; for example: -- "three-fourths" -- "one-half" -- "one-third," &c. &c. or "totally," as the case may be.
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Before me the subscriber, one of the Justices of the Peace, in and for the County of Philadelphia and Commissioner named in the annexed Document, personally appeared the within named Thomas Harris and Saml. B. Smith and on their solemn oaths, according to Law, respectively deposed and say, that the statement contained in the within certificate subscribed by them, according to the best of their [illegible] and Judgment, is just and true.  
Thos. Harris Surg.
U.S.N.

Samuel B. Smith
Surgeon U.S. Army

In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal the tenth day of July Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred and nineteen.
Rich. Renshaw  {seal}
Justice of Peace
and Commissioner
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State of New York
Niagara County SS.
Clerks Office -- 

I Frederick B. Merrill Clerk of the County aforesaid do hereby certify that James Croick Before who the within affidavit appears to have been made is one of the assistant Justices of the Court of Common pleas in and for the County of Niagara was acting as such under the authority of the State and that the within so signed is his sign ature.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the County Seal at Buffalo this tenth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighteen.
F.B. Merrill
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I do hereby certify that William Gamble Major of Brigade of the New Jersey Militia, commanded a detachment of men in the year 1778, which was detailed by me from my company, that agreeably to the orders, the Major received from General Dickerson, we marched from the cantoonment at the White Horse, to the Draw Bridge over Croswicks Creek---

That we found the Enemy repairing the Bridge, covered by a large force on the opposite side--  We were posted at the end of the Bridge, where a slight breast work had been previously erected.

While Major Gamble was standing [illegib le] and going some orders he received a Ball in his breast, notwithstanding this we drove the Enemy from the Bridge and obliged them to abandon it--
Peter Van Deventer Cap.

Sworn and Subscribed to 
before me this 4th day of 
Feby. 1818.

James Cronk Assistant Justice of the County of Niagara
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I certify that I have examined a Gun shot wound of Major William Gamble said to have been received in the service of the United States during the Revolutionary War.

By [illegible] examination it appears that the ball penetrated his left breast near the sternum and lodged in his right side and he is in the opinion of the undersigned entitled to the pension allowed by law to Revolutionary officers.

Washington City-
24 Feby. 1819-

Benjamin Dalavan
Post-Surgeon U.S. Army
----------------
Henry Huntt
Late Hospl. Surgeon U.S. Army
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(Copy)

War Department
Pension Office,
Jany 26th 1820

Sir,

Your claim to a pension under the act of
Congress providing for persons disabled by known wounds during the Revolutionary War, has been examined by me, and being informal and insufficient for the purpose, the papers are herewith returned.

The first objection in these documents is the
erasure of the name of the person to whom the commission was given by Judge Thruston, and the substitution therein of the name of Richard Renshaw, of Philadelphia, evidently written by himself.

The testimony of Capt Vandeventer as to the wound you received, is not sufficient. The law requires the testimony of the Commanding Officer or of two credible witnesses.  As Capt. Vandeventer was not the Commanding officer,
the evidence of another credible witness is
wanting.

Agreeably to the Act of Congress, you must also prove by at least one credible witness, that you continued in service during the whole time for which you were detached. And in the same manner you must prove your mode of life and employment since you left the
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service, and the place or places where you have since resided, and your place of residence at the time of taking such testimony.--

The rules and regulations in conformity with the law, are herewith enclosed for your guidance.--

I am, respectfully,
Your obt. servt.
J.L. Edwards


Major Wm. Gamble,
who was an officer during
the Revolution.
Washington.
Page 33

Washington Nov. 19, 1831

Major Edward

Sir

You will be so good as to direct copies of the evidence, which entitled me to a pention [pension] from the United States--

I am Sir very respectfully
Your obt. servt.
William Gamble


Major Edwards
&c &c
Page 34

Letter of Mr. Edwards,
& observations on the 
case of Major Gamble.


War Dep.
Pensions Office,
Feb. 5, 1820

Sir,

In compliance with your request, I herewith transmit a copy of my letter to Major Gamble.  The papers in support of his claim have been returned to him.

I am very respectfully,
Your obt. servt.
J.L. Edwards


Honl. Joseph Bloomfield,
House of Representatives
Page 35

Observations on the foregoing annexed submitted to the Honbl. J.C. Calhoun, Secretary of War

1st. The erasure of the name of the Commissioner ought not to be considered a crime; as the act, was not accompanied with a vicious will - Another commissioner may issue.

2d.  The second objection is incorrect. - Capt. Vandeventer was the commanding officer, of the Militia Corps, in which Major Gamble (who had no rank in the line) did duty, & was wounded in a skirmish.

When the British army marched from Philada. through N. Jersey, to N. York, their left flank guard, approached the pass, at the Draw-Bridge over Crosswicks Creek, which was defended by Militia, under Capt. Vandeventer.  Genl.* Dickinson sent Brigade - Major Gamble from Trenton, with orders to encourage the Militia to defend the pass at the DrawBridge.  In the execution of these orders, the Brigade Major Gamble, joined the Militia, under Capt. Vandeventer, & in the skirmish, received a Ball (now in his body).  This appears from the deposition of Capt. Vandeventer, the Commanding officer of the Corps in battle, & which is the highest Evidence (in my Opinion) of which the case is susceptible.
Joseph Bloomfield
5 May 1824

*Genl. Dickinson has been deceased seven years.
Page 36

In the Rev. War pension claim W.2979 of Peter Van Deventer, N.J. is the original letter of Major Wm. Gamble to said P. Van D. requesting the latter to furnish this testimony.  In it Major Gamble says that his sons are all in the service of "our county (no names given) the letter is dated Washington City Jan. 15, 1818.

AW
Feb. 12, 1917
Page 37

[cut off] until this [cut off]ther declares that he hath no other evidence now [cut off] power of the foregoing services except the annexed affidavit of Peter Vanderventer - and moreover, that he is in reduced circumstances, and in need of assistance from his country for support-
William Gamble

District of Columbia Sct.
I Buckner Thruston Judge as aforesaid do certify that on this 6th day of April 1818 personally appeared before me Major William Gamble and made oath in due form of law to the truth of the foregoing declaration; It appears therefore to my satisfaction, that the said William Gamble did serve in the revolutionary war against the common enemy, as stated in the said declaration, and I certify & transmit to the Secretary for the department of War, the testimony & proceedings had in the case pursuant to the directions of the 18 March 1818.  Given under my hand at Washington in the said district the day & year first above mentioned.
B. Thruston

To the Honbl. the Secretary at War
Page 38

fi[cut off]
respecti[cut off]
ultimately comp[cut off]

He further decla[cut off]
skirmish he received a shot in his Breast, [cut off] soon after the Enemy was driven out of Jersey his wound was examined by the surgeon, and certificate given hin, as well as one from the
Page 39

District of Columbia
Washington City        SS
Personally came before me the subscriber a judge of the circuit court for sd district William Gamble of said district who being duly sworn according to Law, declares as follows  That he served as an Officer in the Revolutionary War in the State of New Jersey.

That he was aid to Genl. Dickinson of the said state by whom he was ordered to take a sufficient force and defend the drawbridge between Bordentown, and Trenton, at the time the Enemy had evacuated Philadelphia in June 1778.--

Tht while in the actual discharge of his duties he received a gunshot wound in his breast, the evidence of which will be fully explained.

That the wound has ever since he received it occasioned much pain, and upon the slightest cold, from change of weather, it has within a few years past (especially in the cold season) become very afflicting---  He further declares that he lodged his papers relative to his services as well as certificates from General Dickinson and the surgeon (respecting the wound he received) in the War Office in
Page 40

Philadelphia, with the Chief Clerk John Stagg, as a lien upon his country, at some future day, should he require it--  He further declares that he has at diverse time made diligent inquiry and search at the department of war, without effect, and has good cause for believing they have been either lost, or destroyed.

He further declares that at his time of life he is utterly prevented from gaining a livelihood, from the severe pain he frequently endures, in consequence of the wound he received in the Public service---

He further declares that he never has received any compensation or pention [pension] from any state, nor fro the General Government--

He also declares that from motives of delicacy, and perhaps, a mistaken pride, he has hitherto avoided claiming pecuniary aid from Government which the Law has provided in similar cases--  Sworn to before me this 26th day of February 1819.
B. Thruston
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[left side]
607
Dist. of Columbia
---------------------
William Gamble,        R
Major of Militia in the army U.S. during Revy. War.
----------------------
Ratio of disability, ------ Total ......
Time of closing the testimony } 31st May 1820
----------------------
Inscribed on the roll of Dist. of Columbia
at 25 dollars per month, to commence on the
31st May 1820.
----------------------
Certificate of pension issued the 31st of May 1820, and delivered to the Pensioner.
----------------------
Portion of Semi-anl. all'ce ending 4th Sept. 1820 - 3 and 4/30 months------ $78.33

Acts 10 April 1806
         25 April 1812 &
         15 May 1820.
---------------------

[right side]
See letter Jan. 22, 1831 to Hon.
S.A. Foot, Senate U.S. do to
Major Gamble Feb. 3, 1831
Capt. Van Deventers aff.
copied for maj. Gamble 21 Feb.
1832, See letter to. Hon. S.A. 
Foot 3d March 1832
Page 42

Major Gamble's letter to J. Bloomfield with Documents of claim to help pay to
-----



Found 28 July 1820
Page 43

Dear General,

It occurred to me after I had the pleasure of seeing you on Saturday last that it might not be improper to make a short statement to you in writing stating to my pretentions on Government for a Pention [pension]--

Having so frequently been frustrated in my applications, and it is now upwards of twelve months that I have been put off by Major Edwards in consequence (as he said) of the surgeons not having sworn to their examination, which was considered by them unnecessary being both of them surgeons in the Army--

Being apprehensive the law would expire before I could procure another examination one of those Gentlemen having left the City, Major Edwards said he would enter my application in the Books of his office which would prevent my being bar[r]ed, should the law expire on this I rested satisfied.--

Major Edwards observed to me at the same time that after I had got the certificate of the surgeons taken on oath, he was of opinion I had complied with the spirit of the law, as far as lay in my power, and hoped the Secretary would grant the pention [pension]---  The commission which M. Edwards has stated as one of his new objections was handed me by the {Blank Commission} Judge at my special request to be filled [filed?] with the name of any Justice that might be most convenient
Page 44

For the surgeons to appear before., but before I could find two willing to take the trouble to examine my wound, Joseph Casson whose name I had put in the Commission had left the City.  I was then obliged to erase his name--  Why should this be made an objection the Commission then stood as it was before. -- I see nothing to carp at, If Mr. Renshaw is a Magistrate, which I believe is known to yourself as well as other members of Congress, if the two surgeons one of which belongs to the Post of Philadelphia, the other belongs to the Navy Hospital in Phila. both eminent in their professions and known to Government, "why the objection"---

The opinion M. Edwards has given on my case which you did me the honor to read on Saturday reminds me of an anecdote I recollect of Philip King of Macedon--

A Lady addressed him and requested him to be her Judge in a certain affair in which she was concerned---  "The King in much gaste gave his Judgment against her, whereupon she declared she would appeal from it"--- To whom do you appeal said the King- "to Philip said she, when he reflects".

This made him reconsider the case and he gave a Judgment in the Lady's favor---

I hope and I do believe Sir you will be able to induce the Secretary to do me Justice, and I do verily believe he has every disposition to do so, when you state my pretentions to him; "would to God I could do without it"
Page 45

If an early devotion to the cause of my [illegible]  sacrifice of an ample Patrimonial Estate if my Blood which has been shed, and a Musket Ball which I carry about in my Body has a claim on the Magnanimity of this Government, I will present my family motto dil desperandum.

To add to this I have forfeited the friendship of a worthy uncle a bachelor in England, who at one time made me his heir, but finding I had taken a part in the Revolution he revoked what he had done, and has every since that period evinced a steady course of hostility against me---

I am persuaded you will pardon the trouble I am now adding to what I have already given you; I wish to impress on your mind some circumstances which in the multiplicity of business on hand might slip your memory--- yet I hope Sir, I am not be understood as offering a stimulant to my respectable friend Genl. Bloomfield to acts of Humanity---

I have the honor Sir to be with great respect
Your obt. Servant
William Gamble

Hon. Genl. Joseph Bloomfield