Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 24750, for William Read, Rhode Island
Page 1

(3–1776)

SERVICE

READ, WILLIAM
OR REED, REBECCA

NUMBER
W.24750
====================
CONTENTS
Page 2

(2344)
Rhode Island 
=====================
William Read
Private 4
Rhode Island Line
In the army of the United States during the Revolutionary War
==============================================
Inscribed on the Roll of Rhode Island
at the rate of Eight Dollars per oath, to commence on
the 2nd of May 1818
==========================================
Certificate of Pension issued the 16 of September 18[date cut off]
and sent to Nicholas Taylor Esq.
Newport
==================================================
Arrears to 4th of September. 1818 — 16 Months 3/30 — 32 — 86
Semi-anl. all’ce ending 4. March 1819 — — — 48
=========
$80.86
======
{Revolutionary claim,}
{Act 18th March, 1818.}
One Year

[hand written word(s) illegible]

[left side of document:]
Notification sent to Hon N. R. Knight Sen: US.
6 Feb: 1823 ——- [illegible] letter of pension and Proof [illegible]
Page 3

The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantation,
I Daniel Denham one of the Justices of the 
Court of Common Pleas & General Sessions of the 
Peace for the County of Newport, do hereby certify 
that William Read whose application for a pension 
under a late Act of Congress is hereunto annexed, has 
always to my personal knowledge appeared to be an 
industrious Citizen and owing to ill health is now in 
indigent circumstances & stands in need of the 
assistance of his country for his support. 
    In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my 
hand this Twenty Second Day of August 
in the year of our Lord AD 1818. 
Daniel Dunham 

The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations 
Clerks Office Court of Common Pleas & General 
Sessions of the Peace for the County of Newport: 
I hereby Certify that Daniel Denham Esquire, whose 
Signature is affixed to the preceding attestation 
is a Justice of the Court aforesaid duly Commissioned 
& engaged under the Seal of said State  
     In testimony whereof I have hereunto 
set my hand & caused the Seal 
of said Court to be affixed at Newport 
aforesaid this Twenty Second Day of 
August in the year of our LORD 
One thousand eight hundred & eighteen 
& forty third of American Independence. 
HY Cranston Clk
Page 4

Barrington August 6th 1818 —
     This may certify that I the subscriber enlisted 
as a sergeant under the command of Capt. Thomas
Allin in the Regiment of Col. Archibald Crary, on 
the sixteenth of December AD 1776. I served in sd. company
& Regiment during the time of fifteen months
then following — & that William Read of Newport
served as a private soldier in sd. Company & Regiment
during the abovesaid time, & thot [sp]he was a good
soldier & was honourably [sp] discharged.
William Jones

State of Rhode Island Sc.
Bristol Ss.  At Barrington on this sixth day
of August in the year of our Lord one Thousand
eight hundred & eighteen, William Jones subscriber
to the above certificate, came before me the subscriber
one of the Judges of the Court of Common
Pleas for the County of Bristol, &, after being duly
sworn, made solemn oath to the truth of the same
Joseph Rawson
J.C.C.P.
Page 5

I Richard Smith, Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas within and for the County of Bristol, in the State of Rhode Island do hereby certify that Joseph Rawson Esquire, Subscriber to the within is the Second Justice of said Court of Common Pleas, duly Commissioned and engaged as such, and that full faith & credit is & ought to be given to his Official Acts in Court & without, at home and abroad. -

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court this Twenty second Day of August. A. D. 1818.
Richd. Smith
Page 6

[illegible] 1 May 1818 
This may certify that sd. Wm Read enlisted in 
my Company in Col Wm Hickman Rigiment 
in November 1775 and Served until 16 November 1776.
I served my [illegible] Commission in July 1776 and Read Continued that Commission since [illegible] John Hancock 
Caleb Carr 

[illegible] 

Barrington May the 1st AD 1818
This is to certify that I inlisted [sp] as a private soldier 
under the Command of Capt Thomas Allin in the 
Regiment of Col Archibald Crary in the month of June 
1777 and served for the space of nine months, at that 
I joined said Company William Read now residing in 
Newport was a private Soldier in said Company and 
continued to known as a good and faithful Soldier during the whole time that I remained in the service at which time we were
having expired 
Joshua Bicknall
Page 7

[illegible] 1 May 1818 
This may certify that sd Wm Read enlisted in 
my Company into sd Wm Richman Regiment 
in November 1775 and served until 16 November 1776 
I turned my [illegible] Commission in July 1776 and Read —  
Continental Commission since Presdent John Hancock 
Caleb Carr

State of Rhode Island &C.
Bristol ss At Barrington on this sixth day of August 
in the year of our Lord one Thousand eight hundred & 
eighteen, the Honble. Joshua Bicknall subscriber to the 
within Certificate, came before me the subscriber 
one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas for 
County of Bristol, & after being duly sworn, made 
solemn oath to the truth of the same - 
Joseph Rawson
J.C.C.P.
Page 8

Barrington August 6th 1818 — 
This may certify that I the subscriber enlisted 
as a sergeant under the command of Capt Thomas 
Allin in the Regiment of Col. Archibald Crary, on 
the sixteenth of December AD 1776 & served in sd company & Regiment during the time of fifteen months
then following — & that William Head of Newport 
served as a private soldier in sd Company & Regiment during the abovesaid time, & that he was a good 
soldier & was honorably discharged 
William Jones 

State of Rhode Island &c.
Bristol Ss.  At Barrington on this sixth day 
of August in the year of our Lord one Thousand 
eight hundred & eighteen, William Jones subscriber 
to the above certificate, came before me the subscriber
one of the Judges of the Court of Common 
Pleas for the County of Bristol &, after being duly 
sworn, made solemn oath to the truth of the same Joseph Rawson 
J.C.C.P.
Page 9

I Richard Smith Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas within and for the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island do hereby certify that Joseph Rawson Esquire Subscriber to the within is the Second Justice of said Court of Common Pleas, duly Commissioned and engaged as such, and that full faith & credit is & ought to be given to his Official Acts in Court & without, at home and abroad. -

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court this Twenty second Day of August. A D. 1818.
Richd Smith
Page 10

State of Rhode-Island and Providence-Plantations. 
NEWPORT, ss.
On this Second day of May 1818, before me the subscriber, one of the 
Judges of the Court of Common Pleas for the County of Newport, personally appears
William Read aged Fifty nine years, resident in Newport 
in the said County who being by me first duly sworn, according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following 
declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the late act of Congress, entitled "An act to provide 
for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary 
war :" That he the said Wm. Read enlisted in Nov. 1775 in the town of Ne[wport]
in the State of Rhode Island in the company commanded by Captain 
Caleb Carr of the Regt. Comd. by Col W. Richmond that he 
continued to serve in the said corps, or in the service of the United States, until the 16th of November 
1776, when he was discharged from service in Newport State 
of Rhode Island, that he was in the battle of Rhode Island, 
and that he is in reduced circumstances, and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support; 
and that he has no other evidence now in his power of his said services. 
     Sworn to and declared before me, the day and year aforesaid. Nichs Taylor 

     Nick Taylor Judge, as aforesaid, do certify, That it appears to my 
satisfaction, that the said William Read did serve in the revolutionary 
war, as stated in the preceding declaration, against the common enemy; and I now transmit the 
proceedings and testimony taken and had before me, to the Secretary for the Department of War, pursuant to the directions of the aforementioned Act of Congress, 
Newport R. May 1818 Nich Taylor 

Clerks Office Court of Common Pleas 
Newport ss.    County of Newport 2d May 1818 
I hereby certify that Nicholas Taylor Esquire 
whose signature is affixed to the above 
Statement & certificate is Chief Justice of 
the Court of Common Pleas within & for the 
County of Newport in Testimony whereof 
I have hereunto affixed the seal of said 
Court 
Robert Rogers Clk

The said Wm. Read further declares that he enlisted as a private in a Company 
Comd. by Capt. Aaron Man in the Life Guard to Gen. Sullivan in June 1778 and was discharged
on the 16th of March 1779, that he also served in Col A Crarys Regiment twelve months
the year 1777, he served twelve months in Col Elliotts Regiment of Artillery under Cap. Westgate

[seal is found at the bottom left of document]
Page 11

[blank document]
Page 12

State of Rhode-Island & Providence-Plantations. 
Newport sc — Court of Common Pleas, May   Term, A,D. 1820 
On this twenty sixth day of June 1820, personally appeared in open Court, 
being a Court of Record within and for the County of Newport in the State of Rhode-Island, &c. 
William Read aged Sixty one Years
residing in the Town of Newport in said County, who being first duly
sworn according to law, doth on his Oath declare, that he served in the [rest of line is cut off]

as a private Soldier in the company commanded by Capt.
Caleb Carr in the Regiment commanded by Col Wm Richmond 
Twelve or Fifteen months afterwards as a private in the company 
commanded by Capt Thomas Allen in the Regiment 
commanded by Col Archibald Crary first Fifteen months 
and afterwards Twelve months under two different enlistments, 
and afterwards as Corporal in a company 
commanded by Capt Westcot in the Regiment of Artillery 
commanded by Col Robert Elliot Twelve months as 
will fully appear by Documents in the office of the Secry 
at War accompanying my original Declaration.

That he made a previous Declaration on the Second Day of May 1818, and 
that he has received a Certificate for a Pension, being No. 2344 And in pursuance of the Act of 
Congress, passed May 1st, 1820. I do solemnly swear, That I was a resident Citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner whatever, disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it, as to bring myself within the provisions of an Act of Congress, entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land 
and naval service of the United States, in the Revolutionary War,” passed on the 18th day of March, 1818; 
And that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts, due 
to me; nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed, and by me subscribed. 
II and by a letter from the war Department entered 18th of April 1820 suspended 
by his sons herein assigned, but since allowed to others in similar 
circumstances and if the same since with me.  Wm Read
A SCHEDULE of Property and Income, (necessary clothing and bedding excepted) of 
William Read one third of House & Lot valued by Persons 
under act at 340… 
Deduct Mortgage on said Estate 175..
Eight chairs $2.— One old Dish $1. — 1 [illegible] $2 — 165.  5..
one old Looking Glass cracked $1 — 2 pine tables $1.50    2..50
Five Maple Tables $3 — one Mahogany Stand $1..   4..
[illegible], $2 —  [illegible] knives & forks $1 — 3..
1 fr Bellows 50 ct.  [illegible] ware $2 — Crockery $2 — 4..50
Six Silver tea Spoons $3. One [illegible] $1 — 4..
Page 13

State of Rhode-Island & Providence-Plantations.  
Newport sc — Court of Common Pleas, May Term, A,D. 1820  
On this twenty sixth day of June 1820, personally appeared in open Court,  
being a Court of Record within and for the County of Newport in the State of Rhode-Island, &c.  
William Read aged Sixty one Years 
residing in the Town of Newport in said County, who being first duly 
sworn according to law, doth on his Oath declare, that he served in the [rest of line is cut off]  

as a private Soldier in the company commanded by Capt. 
Caleb Carr in the Regiment commanded by Col Wm Richmond  
Twelve or Fifteen months afterwards as a private in the company  
commanded by Capt Thomas Allen in the Regiment  
commanded by Col Archibald Crary first Fifteen months  
and afterwards Twelve months under two different enlistments,  
and afterwards as Corporal in a company  
commanded by Capt Westcot in the Regiment of Artillery  
commanded by Col Robert Elliot Twelve months as  
will fully appear by Documents in the office of the Secry  
at War accompanying my original Declaration.  

That he made a previous Declaration on the Second Day of May 1818, and  
that he has received a Certificate for a Pension, being No. 2344 And in pursuance of the Act of  
Congress, passed May 1st, 1820. I do solemnly swear, That I was a resident Citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner whatever, disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it, as to bring myself within the provisions of an Act of Congress, entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land  
and naval service of the United States, in the Revolutionary War,” passed on the 18th day of March, 1818;  And that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts, due  
to me; nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed, and by me subscribed.  
II and by a letter from the war Department entered 18th of April 1820 suspended  
by his sons herein assigned, but since allowed to others in similar  
circumstances and if the same since with me. Wm Read 
A SCHEDULE of Property and Income, (necessary clothing and bedding excepted) of  
William Read one third of House & Lot valued by Persons  
under act at 340…  
Deduct Mortgage on said Estate 175.. 
Eight chairs $2.— One old Dish $1. — 1 [illegible] $2 — 165. 5.. 
one old Looking Glass cracked $1 — 2 pine tables $1.50 2..50
Page 14

Small fish Boat   10 ~ $198.00 ~                       
Statement 
My occupation is that of a Fisherman.
     my Family consists of the following persons viz 
Self aged Sixty one, in an infirm state of health for some 
time.
     my wife in the 60th year of her age for heath 
I have four children the youngest only resides at home with
me bing in the Sixteenth year of his age, and able to assist 
me in my employment.
William Read  
Sworn to in open Court this Twenty Sixth Day June 1820
HY Cranston Clk 
Clerks Office Court of Common Pleas for the County of Newport 
I hereby certify that the foregoing oath and the Schedule thereto 
annexed are truly copied from the records of said Court,
that it is the opinion of said Court, that the amount in 
value of the property exhibited in said Schedule, is One hundred 
ninety Eight Dollars.
     I further certify that the Court aforesaid 
is a Court of record being so constituted by Statute possessing 
original and unlimited Jurisdiction in all civil actions 
proceeding according to the course of the common Law & keeping
a record of its proceedings. 
     In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed
the seal of said Court this Eighth Day of September 
in the year of our LORD. Eighteen hundred 
& twenty & forty fifth of American Independence. 
By order of County 
HY Cranston Clk
Page 15

[left side of document:]
4493 
Illinois 
===========================
Rebecca Read 
widow of Wm Read 
who was a Private 
in the Rhode Island line
===========================
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 
80 Dollars —
Cents per annum, to commence on 
the 4th day of March, 1843. 
===========================
Certificate of Pension issued the 
19 day of January 1844, 
and sent to Rebecca Read 
Brimfield, Penna County 
Illinois 
===========================
[Act of March 3, 1843.] 
Recorded in Book A
Vol. 1   Page 198 

[right side of document:]
Ret 19 Jay 44 
Letter Wright & Abel Aug 8/49
Page 16

This may certify that William Son of Eleazer
Read and Rachel Daughter of George
[illegible]well both of Newport were Lawfully
joined together in marriage on the 18 day
of November Anno Domini 1787 by me
William Bliss CRI
Page 17

4976 
————
Rebecca Reed [sp] 
of [illegible] 
Illinois 

admitted $80. 
Priv yes Capt 
Carr Col Richmond 
R.I. line 
died Aug 4. 1825 

Act 7 July 38
Edson Harkness
Peoria,
Ill

[written along the right side:]
From Lord one thousand eight
Hundred and Thirty nine
William Mitchell
Page 18

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 of Illinois} 
County of Peoria}  On the 2nd day of March in the year of 
our Lord one thousand eight hundred and 
thirty-nine, personally appeared before me Clark D Powell one 
of the justices of the County commissioner's court, in and for the 
County of Peoria aforesaid Rebecca Reed a resident of La- 
Grange precinct in the County of Peoria aforesaid aged
seventy-four years and Eleven months, 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 July 7, 1838, entitled "An 
Act granting half pay and pensions to certain Widows." that 
she is the widow of William Reed a private soldier in 
the war of the Revolution. This Declarant has no documents 
or papers in her possession relating to the military services 
of her late husband, William Reed - but has been informed 
by the said Reed during his life time and verily believes 
that during the war of the revolution the said Reed enlisted 
into the service for three years and served until he was 
regularly discharged - that the regiment in which he 
served was that of Colonel Crary, and the company to which 
he belonged was that of Captain John Carr or Kerr - Declarant 
therefore refers to the Records of the War department 
for evidence of the service of the said William Reed 
who was a pensioner at the time of his decease. She fur —
Page 19

[fur]ther declares that she was married to the said William Reed 
on the eighteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one 
thousand seven hundred and eighty one as appears the certificate 
of Elder William Bliss, now in her possession, which certificate 
is the only written evidence within her knowledge of the 
fact of said Marriage — That her husband the said William 
Reed died at Newport in the State of Rhode Island on the third day of August in 
the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty 
five 1825) — that she was not married to him prior to his 
leaving the service — but the marriage took place previous to 
the first day of January seventeen hundred and ninety four 
viz at the time above stated  
Rebecca Reed

Sworn to and subscribed on the day above written 
Before Clark J. Powell 
Justice of the County 
Commissioners Court 
Peoria County Ill

I Clark D Powell, Justice of the County Commissioners 
Court before whom the above declaration was made and sworn 
to Do hereby certify that the above Declarant Rebecca 
Reed cannot from bodily infirmity attend the deposing 
of the Court aforesaid 
Clark D. Powell 
Justice to Com Court
Page 20

the state of Illinois }
County of Peoria } Before the subscriber one of the of the justices 
of the County of Commissioners Court
as said for the County of Peoria personally came Sarah 
Berrian and about thirty six years a respectable and 
credible person who being duly sworn according to Law 
doth depose and say that she is the daughter of William 
and Rebecca Reed, the persons named in the foregoing 
Declaration That her father William Reid received a 
pension from the government of the United States for 
services in the Revolutionary war, for some years previous 
to his decease — That she, the Deponent was present 
when the said William Reed departed this life 
which took place on the third day of August in the 
year our Lord one thousand eight hundred and 
twenty-five at the town of Newport in the State of 
Rhode Island. Deponent further saith that her 
Mother the said Rebecca Reed has up to the 
present time remained single and unmarried since 
the death of the said William Reed which took 
place on the 30 day of August 1825 as above 
mentioned — And further the deponent saith not 
Sarah Berrian
Sworn to and subscribed before 
me this 2nd day of March 
in the year Eighteen hundred and 
thirty nine 
Clark D. Powell 
Justice of the County 
Commissioners Court Peoria 
County Illinois
Page 21

State of Illinois }
Peoria County }  I William Mitchell clerk of the 
County Commissions Court within 
and for said County do hereby certify that Clark 
D Powell Esqr. whose name appears subscribed to the 
foregoing certificates was at the time the same were 
made and now is one of the Justices of the 
County Commissioners Court within and for 
the County of Peoria and State of Illinois 
and that the signature purports to be his are genuine
     Given under my hand and seal 
     of the said Court at Peoria this 
     fourth day of March in the year 
     of our Lord one thousand eight
     hundred and thirty nine
          William Mitchell 
          Clerk

[written sideways at the bottom:]
4976
———
Rebecca Reed
of [illegible] Illinois
admitted $80. 
Per yr Capt
Carr Col Richmond
R. I. line
died Augt 4. 1825

Act 7 July 38

Edson Harkness
Peoria,
Ill.
Page 22

Illinois 3550
==========================================
Rebecca Read 
widow of William Read 
who was a pensioner under the Act of 18th Mar. ‘18 
and who died on the 3d August 1825 
of Peoria in the State of Illinois 
who was a Private in the Company commanded 
by Captain Carr of the Regt commanded 
by Richmond in the R. I. 
line for 2 years ~ 
=========================================
Inscribed on the Roll of Illinois 
at the rate of 80 Dollars [“Cents” is crossed out] per annum,
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.  
=========================================
Certificate of Pension issued the 18th day of July 
‘39 and sent to and Edson Harkness 
Peoria Illinois
=========================================
Arrears to the 4th of March   $240.00
Semi-annual allowance ending $40.00 
====
$280.00

{ Act July 7, }
{ 1838. }

Recorded by Rosin Onne Clerk,
Book A  Vol. 2  Page 55

[Right side of document:]
Cert to Rebecca Read
October 24th: 1843 —
Page 23

I Samuel Hicks of Warren in the County of Bristol and State of Rhode Island, of Lawful age do Testify and say, that William Read was intested in a Company Commanded by Captain Caleb Carr in the Regiment Commanded by Colo. William Richmond in the year 1775. in November, and served in said Company with me until the Sixteenth of November 1776. when he was Discharged - 
Samuel Hicks

Bristol ss, Warren April 24th 1822.
Then personally came Samuel Hicks and made oath to the truth of the above Deposition by him Signed Before me -   
Seth Peck  Justice of the Peace

State of Rhode Island &c.
being personally acquainted with Samuel Hicks I have no doubts of the truth of the above statement in his Deposition - 
Seth Peck  Justice of the Peace
Page 24

State of Rhode Island &c.
Clerks Office of the Court of Com. Pleas for the County of Bristol
I hereby certify that Seth Peck, Esqr. before whom & at the Date the within mentioned Oath was made, was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Bristol, and that full faith & Credit is, and ought to be given to his Official Acts. - 

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the Seal of said Court, at Bristol this Seventh Day of May in the year 1822.
Richd. Smith Clerk
of said Court

Samuel Hicks
Deposition
Page 25

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations

Newport ss.

Town Clerks Office, Newport May 29th AD 1822 

I hereby Certify that John R Sherman is in possession of William Read's Estate under a Mortgage deed given to him by said Read, to secure a debt of Two hundred dollars, as will appear from the files in my office, it being the same Mortgage deed of which I gave a Certified Copy to be transmitted by said Read to the Pension Office at Washington -
Charles Gyles  Town Clerk
Page 26

The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations 
Clerks Office Court of Common Pleas for the County of Newport 
     I hereby certify that Charles Gyles whose signature is affixed 
to the within certificate was at the time thereof & now is Town 
Clerk of the Town of Newport in the County aforesaid duly 
elected and otherwise qualified as such. 
     In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand 
and affixed the seal of said Court this Thirty first 
day of May in the year of our LORD One thousand 
Eight hundred and Seventy two & forty sixth of 
American Independence. 
Henry Cranston Clk
Page 27

I Caleb Carr of Warren in the County of Bristol and State 
of Rhode Island of Lawful age, do Testify and say That 
I enlisted William Read as a private Soldier in my Company 
in the Regiment Commanded by Colo William Richmond 
in the year Seventeen Hundred and Seventy five, the last 
of November in said year; and the said William served 
in said Company until November the Sixteenth 1776. 
when he was Discharged — 
Caleb Carr 

Bristol Sc, Warren April the 24th 1822. 
Then Personally came the above Named Caleb Carr 
and made oath to the truth of the above Deposition by 
him Subscribed, before me 
Seth Peck Justice of the Peace 

State of Rhode Island &c. 
Being personally acquainted with the above Named 
Caleb Carr I have No doubt of the truth of what he 
has stated in his Deposition 
Seth Peck Justice of the Peace
Page 28

[top right:]
Caleb Carr
Deposition

Clerks Office of the }
Court of Com. Pleas for }
the County of Bristol }
State of Rhode-Island &c.
     I hereby certify that Seth Peck Esqr. before whom 
and of the date the within mentioned Oath was made, was a 
Justice of the Peace for the County of Bristol, and that full 
faith & credit is, and ought to be given to his Official Acts. —
     In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set 
my hand & affixed the Seal of said Court, at Bristol 
this Seventh Day of May, in the year 1822. —
 Richd Smith Clerk 
of said Court
Page 29

Marriage record.
Page 30

[illegible postmark]
FREE

J. C. Calhoun Esq.
Sec of the War
Washington

[to the left:]
W. Edwards
Page 31

J.L. Edwards Esq      Newport March 13th 1822 
Sir,
In [reaction] of your esteemed favor of ____ I forwarded you a 
certified copy of the mortgage on my house as requested by 
you, since which I have not heard from you except by a 
letter from the [Honorable] Job Durfee to E Travett Esq. by which I 
find in reply to a note wrote you to Mr Durfee you observe it 
is Doubtful whether Crary’s Regiment will be placed on the 
pension list — presuming in the multiplicate of your official 
business you did not recollect my claim was not alone 
made for services in Crarys Regiment but for services also in 
Richmonds Regt a Certificate of which duly authenticated 
I forwarded you under date ______ and said Regiment I 
find has been placed on the pension Roll. If any additional 
Vouchers are wanting either for my services in Richmonds Regt 
or my circumstances having a just claim on Government for 
relief they can and shall be immediately procured & forwarded 
you if you will have the goodness to inform me what are 
requisite — my friends here do not know of any further documents 
being necessary than what has already been forwarded but 
perhaps have escaped your recollection — if mislaid they 
shall all be replaced as soon as you will have the goodness 
to direct — Your attention & reply will Oblidge 
I’m your very [Humble] Servant 
William Read
Page 32

WIDOW, &c. 
——————-
File No. 24750 
Rebecca Read
wife of 
William Read
Priv Rev War
——————-
Act: March 3rd 1843
Index: —Vol. 2,  Page 157 
[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 33

Rhode Island 
William Read, private,
served 11 months in 1776. 
1st schedule dated 26 June 1820 
Real Estate 1/3 house & lot merch. 
for $175     $340.00 
Personal estate 33.00  
$373.00 
========
[illegible] under act March 
1823 dated 13 May 1823 — 
Household & Kitchen furniture and 
fish small boat $33.33 
=========
Accounts for decrease of property 
by the sale of the house 
& lot the proceeds of which 
were applied to the payment 
of his past debts — 
an authenticated copy of the 
mortgage dated 16 May 1818, 
and copy of the deed of sale 
of the things surrounding are 
exhibited. 
Claimant age 64 — by occupation
a fisherman, when
able to [illegible] it — Wife
aged 64 very infirm — no
other mentioned in family.
Town Clerk certifies that the 
claimant is very poor & 
[illegible] 
from fishing. 

See let to Hon D 
V Pearce Aug 
23, 1836 
let 24 Jany 1839 
Hon W.L. May, 
do 12 Feb 39 

Benjn Cowell 
Providence, R.I. 
4 March 1819 —
Page 34

J L Edwards Esq 
Commissioner of pensions 
Washington 
DC
Page 35

Peoria Illinois March 4 1839 
Sir.    I herewith send you the Declaration of 
Mrs Reed together with the deposition 
of her Daughter Mrs Berrian, and the 
Original Marriage certificate — I hope 
the papers will be satisfactory to the 
Department.  If there be any thing wrong 
you will please return the papers to 
me, with the errors pointed out, 
If the papers be correct, you will advise 
me of it, if you please, and state 
the proper steps for Mrs Reed to take 
in procuring her certificate of Pension 
Very respectfully 
your obedient 
humble sevt 
Edson Harkness 

J L Edwards Esq 
Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington DC
PS. I have sent a letter to the town Clerk of Newport to ascertain if the Marriage Records go as far back as 1781
Page 36

J L Edwards Esqr.
Commr. of Pensions
Washington

[to the left:]
In at Feby
Mrs. Read

[to the right:]
Hon. W.L. May
H.R.
Page 37

HR 
Feb 4th 1839 
Sir
I inclose herewith a letter addressed to 
me by some of my constituents, in behalf 
of the widow of a Revolutionary Pensioner, to which I solicit an answer 
I remain very respectfully 
your obdt [obedient] Sevt [Servant]  
W L May 
PS. Please return the letter enclosed 

J L Edwards Esqr 
Comr of Pensions
Page 38

HR  
Feb 4th 1839  
Sir 
I inclose herewith a letter addressed to  
me by some of my constituents, in behalf  
of the widow of a Revolutionary Pensioner, to which I solicit an answer  
I remain very respectfully  
your obdt [obedient] Sevt [Servant]  
W L May  
PS. Please return the letter enclosed   

J L Edwards Esqr  
Comr of Pensions
Page 39

J L Edwards Esqr.
Commr. of Pensions
Washington

[to the left:]
Mat Jan 23
Mrs. Mr. Reed

[to the right:]
Hon. W.L. May
H.R.
Page 40

Washington 
Jany 22, 1839 
Sir
Will you have the goodness to return 
me an answer to the enquiries contained 
in the enclosed letter, together with the letter 
itself?
I remain with great 
respect your obed set [obedient servant]
WL May
Page 41

Wm Read -

Dulie J Pearce 

J. L.  Edwards, Esqr 
Comm of Pensions 
Washington 
D.C.

[left side of document:]
Aug 19
[illegible]

[right side of document:]
Hon. D.J. Pearce
Page 42

Newport Juy 16th 1836 
Dear Sir,     William Read of this 
State got a Pension under 
the act of 1818 which he received 
for some time, and was afterwards
for some cause to me unknown, Stricken from the roll — in 1825 
or about that time, he was restored 
to his pension, which he received to the time of his death say in 1826 
or about that period = 
     His Widow Rebecca, 
who when wed was Rebecca 
Dunwell, is now living and was 
married to him in November 
AD. 1781 — My object in writing you 
at this time is to ascertain whether 
by Reads declaration, and the evidence he adduced to get his pension as appears that his last term of service expired now to November 1782 as 
in case it did not, she is entitled 
to relief as his widow under the 
act of our late session; otherwise not
Page 43

Newport Juy 16th 1836  
Dear Sir,      William Read of this  
State got a Pension under  
the act of 1818, which he received  
for some time, and was afterwards 
for some cause to me unknown, 
Stricken from the roll — in 1825  
or about that time, he was restored  
to his pension, which he received to 
the time of his death say in 1826  
or about that period =  
          His Widow Rebecca,  
who when wed was Rebecca  
Dunwell, is now living and was  
married to him in November  
AD. 1781 — My object in writing you  
at this time is to ascertain whether  
by Reads declaration, and the evidence 
he adduced to get his pension as 
appears that his last term of service 
expired now to November 1782 as  
in case it did not, she is entitled  
to relief as his widow under the  
act of our late session; otherwise not
Page 44

Newport Juy 16th 1836  
Dear Sir,      William Read of this  
State got a Pension under  
the act of 1818, which he received  
for some time, and was afterwards 
for some cause to me unknown, 
Stricken from the roll — in 1825  
or about that time, he was restored  
to his pension, which he received to 
the time of his death say in 1826  
or about that period =  
          His Widow Rebecca,  
who when wed was Rebecca  
Dunwell, is now living and was  
married to him in November  
AD. 1781 — My object in writing you  
at this time is to ascertain whether  
by Reads declaration, and the evidence 
he adduced to get his pension as 
appears that his last term of service 
expired now to November 1782 as  
in case it did not, she is entitled  
to relief as his widow under the  
act of our late session; otherwise not
Page 45

I do not wish to put the [illegible]
to the [illegible] of an application 
unless there should be for her some 
chance for her success and would 
therefore be pleased to hear from 
as soon as circumstances will 
warrant, and and with [illegible]
[illegible] your very 
obedient Servant 
Dulie J Peane

J. S. Edwards, Esq 
Commissioner of 
Pensions
Page 46

Providence Nov. 20 1822 
Sir
     I have to request that the enclosed certificate of 
Charles Gyles, town Clerk of the Town of Newport 
may be placed among the papers of the said William 
Reads application for a pension, to be taken into 
consideration when his case examined — What little 
real estate he had was mortgaged prior to 18 March 
1818, since which it has all been converted 
to pay his debts. It is to be hoped therefore that his 
application will not be rejected on account of his 
property for in addition to what Mr Gyles says 
who is a very respectable man. I have reason to 
believe that he cannot subsist, at this season 
of the year when he cannot follow fishing, without 
charity = I hope his case will be speedily 
attended to and as he has never, as yet, rend any 
portion of his Country County, he will be 
relieved — I am respectfully 
your obt sert
Benjamin Cowell

J L Edwards Esq
Page 47

State of Rhode Island C.
Bristol Ss. Barrington August 13th AD 1818 ~
I the [illegible], one of the Judges of the Court 
of Common Pleas in the County of Bristol in sd. State, 
do hereby certify that the Hon Joshua Bicknall & 
Mr William Jones who were duly & solemnly sworn before 
me, on the sixth day of this present month, to testify as 
touching the term or time of service rendered as a private 
soldier by William Read of Newport in Capt 
Thomas Allins Company & Col. Archibald Crary’s Regiment 
in the Revolutionary War, are, & always have been 
considered as men of truth & soberness; that they are of 
good name & fame & stand high in the estimation of 
all  the good people, their neighbors, as to truth & veracity
that I have lived a near neighbor to both of them during 
the space of nearly twenty years last past, & that 
their evidence is worthy of & entitled to full faith & 
credit & ought to be seen as such as well in, as, out of Court.
Joseph Rawson J.C.C.P.
Page 48

free
John C. Calhoun Esqr
Secretary of War
Washington
Page 49

Newport November 17th 1821. ~ 
J.C. Calhoon Esq    Sir 
     I received your favor under date of 8th April 1820 informing my pension 
was suspended in consequence of its being doubtful whether Col Crary’s 
Regiment was on the Continental establishment — and that my services 
in Richmonds Regiment would not entitle me to a pension since which 
I observe in the public papers the Officers and soldiers in Lippitts & Richmonds 
Regiments are placed on the pension list, my services in Richmonds 
Regiment was for one year a certificate of which from Capt Caleb Carr 
commanding the Company I was attached to I forwarded to you some 
time since, if it is deficient in evidence, or any further evidence is 
wanting I would be obliged if you would have the goodness to inform me 
and direct me what proceedings to pursue to entitle me to receive my 
pay — I served my Country during the Revolutionary war four years and 
a half and to the satisfaction of those under whose command I acted 
and was a volunteer in the late war and had three sons in the U States 
service one a Capt in the Infantry who died at the Council Bluff 
last year and of course I am deprived of any benefit from him the other 
two are not in a situation to render me any assistance, and being 
advanced in years and in very feeble health prevents me from earning 
any thing by labour — whatever Government may see fit to provide for me 
you would confer a great favor by dictating me what course to 
pursue to obtain it as speedily as may be my circumstances being now 
very much reduced and required assistance for my support, your kind 
attention as above requested. Will much oblidge 
Your Very Obt Servant 
William Read
Page 50

FREE

J. C. Calhoon Esqr 
War Department 
Pension Office 
Washington 

[post mark to the left]
[the name “Edwards” to the right]

[presented upside down:]
Authenticated copy of
Mortgage — Mortgage
date 16 May 1818 —
Page 51

Newport 18th Decr 1821 
J C. Calhoon Esq 
Sir 
Your esteemed favour of 6th no. I duly received, and in conformity 
to your directions now forward you a certified copy of the mortgage 
on the Part of a dwelling house I own — the value of it is very much 
depreciated since valued in the schedule and would not probably more 
than pay the mortgage - what further evidence may be required to 
prove my dependent situation you will have the goodness to inform 
me and it shall be immediately transmitted also what demands are 
against me which I am unable to say provided you think it requisite of 
I am Most Respectfully
Your Obt Servant 
William Read
Page 52

Schedule 
of
property

FREE
[post mark bottom left]

John C Calhoun
Secry. War Department
Washington 
D.C.

137

Report to Mr Hunter, Senate.

One years invoice
aged 61 — infirm
Fisherman
Widow 60
[illegible] with him 16
Page 53

James L Edwards Esquire
Superintendent of the pension office
Washington

[postmark to the left]

Town Clerk’s certificate
authenticated

[to the right:]
Reed. 25 Nov 1822
Page 54

State of Rhode Island &c 
Town Clerks Office Newport October 15th AD 1822 ~
I certify that it does not appear by the Record of Land titles in this 
Office that William Read belonging to this Town is now the owner 
of any Real Estate therein. The Estate which he formerly owned having 
been sold) and I also further certify that said William is personally 
known to me, and I verily believe him to be a very poor man destitute 
of property of any kind, he follows fishing for a living & from that 
derives a hearty subsistence.
Charles Gyles Town Clerk
Page 55

FREE
Hon John C Calhoun 
Secretary War Department 
Washington 
D.C.

[left side:]
[postmark found bottom, left of document]

Authenticated documents of 
service in Richmond’s reg
in 1776

[right side:]
Read 6 June 1822
Page 56

Newport R.I. 31st May, 1822
Hon John C Calhoun 
Sir 
William Read of this 
Town, an applicant for a revolutionary Pension, whose 
papers were forwarded from my office some time 
since, has requested me to forward to the Department 
of War the enclosed Documents containing further 
evidence of his services and poverty. 
I have the honor to be very 
respectfully 
Sir 
your Obt. Sevt. [Obedient Servant]
Henry Y Cranston
Page 57

Copy ~
To all People to whom these Presents shall come, 
I William Read of Newport County of Newport & State of Rhode Island &c Yeoman 
SEND GREETING. — Know Ye, That I the said William Read 
for and in consideration of the Sum of Two hundred Dollars 
to me in Hand, before the Ensealing hereof, well and truly paid by 
John R. Shearman in & of Newport aforesaid 
the Receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, and am therewith fully satisfied, contented and paid; and thereof, and of every Part and parcel thereof, 
do exonerate, acquit and discharge him the said John R Shearman 
his Heirs, Executors and Administrators, forever by these Presents, HAVE given, granted, bargained, sold, aligned, enfeoffe, convey and confirm; and by these Presents do freely, fully and absolutely give, grant, bargain sell, aliene, enfeoffe, convey and confirm, unto him the said 
John B Shearman 
The Moiety of a certain House & Lot of Land purchased of Joshua Nichols butted & bounded as follows to Wit, Westerly on the 
Moiety of the House & Lot of Land of Thomas Coggeshall One hundred & twenty three feet more or less, Northerly on land 
of Jonathan Lawton forty one feet more or less, Easterly on land of Walter Nichols Esquire one hundred and twenty 
three feet more or less, Southerly on Malborough Street Forty one feet more or less, together with the Eastern half of the Collar 
& Privilege to draw & fetch water at the Well on the premises, together with all & singular the ways, waters, rights & 
privileges to the above bargained premises appertaining or belonging ~ 
To Have and To Hold the said granted and bargained Premises, with all the Appurtenances, Privileges and 
Commodities, to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining, to him the said John R Shearman 
his Heirs and Assigns forever, to his and their only proper Use, Benefit and Behoof, forever. 
And I the said William Read 
for my self my Heirs, Executors and Administrators, do Covenant, Promise and Grant, to and with the said John R Shearman his 
Heirs and Assigns, that at and before the Ensealing hereof, I am the true, sole and lawful Owner of the above-bargained Premises, and am lawfully seized and 
possessed of the same, in my own proper Right, as a good, perfect and absolute Estate of Inheritance, in Fee-simple: And have in my self good Right, 
full Power, and lawful Authority, to grant, bargain, sell, convey and confirm, the said bargained Premises, in Manner as aforesaid.—And that the said John R. Shearman 
his Heirs and Assigns, shall 
[illegible] way, from Time to Time, and all Times forever hereafter, by Force and Virtue of these Presents, lawfully, peaceably and quietly, Have, Hold, Use,  Occupy, 
Possess and Enjoy, the said demised and bargained Premises, with the Appurtenances, free and clear; and freely and clearly acquitted, exonerated and discharged, of and 
[illegible] all, and all Manner of former or other Gifts, Grants, Bargains, Sales, Leases, Mortgages, Wills, Entails, Jointures, Dowries, Judgments, Executions and 
Incumbrances , of what Name or Nature soever, that might in any Measure or Degree obstruct or make void this present Deed. 
Furthermore, I the said William Read 
for myself my Heirs, Executors and Administrators, do Covenant and Engage the above-demised Premises, to him, the said John R. Shearman his 
Heirs and Assigns, against the lawful Claim or Demands of any Person or Persons whatsoever, forever to Warrant, Secure and Defend, by these Presents. 
Provided nevertheless that the above Deed is upon the following condition to Wit. Whereas the said John R Shearman is responsible as endorser of a 
Negotiable promissory note whereof the said William Read in the drawer for the sum of Two hundred Dollars bearing date the twelfth day of May
Page 58

To Have and To Hold the said granted and bargained Premises, with all the Appurtenances, Privileges and 
Commodities, to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining, to him the said John R Shearman 
and Heirs and Assigns forever, to his and their only proper Use, Benefit and Behoof, forever. 
the I said William Read 
for my suffering Heirs, Executors and Administrators, do Covenant, Promise and Grant, to and with the said John R Shearman his Heirs and Assigns, that at and before the Ensealing hereof, I am the true, sole and lawful Owner of the above-bargained Premises, and am lawfully seized and 
possessed of the same, in my own proper Right, as a good, perfect and absolute Estate of Inheritance, in Fee-simple: And have in myself good Right, 
full Power, and Lawful Authority, to grant, bargain, sell, convey and confirm, the said bargained Premises, in Manner as aforesaid. — And that the said John R Shearman 
his Heirs and Assigns, shall 
and may, from Time to Time, and all Times forever hereafter, by Force and Virtue of these Presents, lawfully peaceably and quietly, Have, Hold, Use, Occupy, 
Possess and Enjoy, the said deposed and bargained Premises, with the Appurtenances, free and clear; and freely and clearly acquitted, exonerated and discharged, of and 
Gain all, and all Manner of former or other Gaits, Grants, Bargains, Sales, Leases, Mortgages, Wills, Entails, Jointures, Dowries, Judgments, Executions and Incumbrances, 
of what Name or Nature soever, that might in any Measure or Degree obstruct or make void this presented Deed. 
Furthermore, I the said William Read 
[illegible] Heirs, Executors and Administrators, do Covenant and Engage the above-demised Premises, to him the said John R Shearman his 
Heirs and Assigns, against the lawful Claims or Demands of any Person or Persons whatsoever, forever to Warrant Secure and Defend, by these Presents, 
Presided herewith life that the above Deed is upon the following condition to Wit whereas the said John R Shearman is responsible as endorser of a 
Negotiable promissory note whereof the said William Read is the drawer for the sum of Two hundred Dollars bearing date the twelfth day of May 
One thousand eight hundred and eighteen payable sixty days after date at the Newport Bank, Now if the said William Read his Heirs, Executors and Administrators shall well & faithfully pay the above recited note of all other claims which shall be given by the said William Read & Endorsed by the said 
John R Shearman in renewal of said note or any part thereof & shall indemnify & save harmless the said John R Shearman his Heirs, Executors Administrators & Assigns from all payments, interests, discounts & [illegible] of whatever nature which may accrue against him the 
said John R Shearman his Heirs, executors administrators or assigns, by reason of the aforesaid endorsements upon which the said John R Shearman his 
known Executors administrators or assigns may become liable from & in such case the above deed shall be null & void otherwise shall be & remain 
in full force & virtue, In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this Sixteenth day of May AD One thousand eight hundred & eighteen  
Signed C. C. & observed in presence of 
A Thornton           William Read 
Geo. T. Weaver
Page 59

I certify that there is due from the within William Read to the Newport 
Bank on his promissory note being a renewal of the within 
mentioned Note, One hundred and seventy five dollars and 
that the within mentioned Estate remains fledged for the payment 
of said debt.
Newport Bank 18th December 1821 
John R. Shearman Casr.

[bottom, left of document:]
Copy
Mortgage Deed
William Read 
to
John R. Shearman, Recd.
into my office for Recording Saturday
May 16th 1818 at 20 Minutes past 4 O’clock
p.m. ~
Page 61

J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.

[left of document:]
Lee 2562
December 14 1843
Ill
Rebecca Read
3 Mar 1843

[top, right of document:]
Claim
Benefits
Peoria Co
Illinois

[bottom, right of document:]
Rebecca Read
$80.
Page 63

[center of document:]
J. L. Edwards 
Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington City 
D.C.  

[left of document:]
STATE OF ILLINOIS }
PEORIA COUNTY } ss.
I, William Mitchell, Clerk of the County Commissioners’ Court to
said county do hereby certify that Noah Alden, Jr. Esq. whose name appears subscribed to 
the fore-going certificate, was, on the day of the date thereof, as acting Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid,
duly [illegible] and qualified as appears of record in my office; and that, as such, full faith and credit are due to all his
official acts.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREAS, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court,
at Peoria, this fourth day of December 1813
William Mitchell [signature] Clerk

[top, right of document:] 
Claim 
Benefits 
Peoria Co 
Illinois  

[bottom, right of document:] 
Rebecca Read $80.
Page 64

The Department will please direct their communication to Rebeca Read, Brimfield Peoria Co Ills.
Page 65

William Read
schedule under act of March 1823 -
Page 67

in my own proper right as a good, perfect, and absolute Estate of [can't read] in fee simple; and have in myself good right, full power, and lawful authority to grant, bargain, sell, convey and confirm, the said bargained premises in manner as aforesaid, and that the said Elizabeth Richards, her heirs  and assigns, shall and may from time to time, and at all times forever hereafter by force and virtue of these presents lawfully, peaceably and quietly, have, hold, use, occupy, possess and enjoy the said devised and bargained premises with the appurtenances, free and clear; and freely and clearly acquitted, exonerated and discharged of and from all and  all manner of former or other Gifts, Grants, Sales, Leases, Mortgages, Wills, Entails, Jointures, Dowries, Judgments, Executions and Encumbrances, of what name or nature soever, that might in any measure or degree obstruct or make void this present deed.

Furthermore, I the said William Read for myself and for my Heirs, Executors and Administrators, do covenant and engage the above devised premises to her the said Elizabeth Richards her heirs and assigns, against the lawful clams and demands of any person or persons whatsoever, forever to warrant, secure and defend by these presents,

In Testimony whereof we the said William Read and Rebecca Read his wife, have herewith set our hands and affixed our seals at Newport this thirtieth day of May Anno Domini One Thousand eight hundred and twenty-two.

Signed Sealed and delivered in the presence of Geo C. Shaw
W. Simons

William Read   Seal
Rebekah Read   Seal

Newport [can't read] Newport May 30th A.D. 1822
Personally appeared before me William Read and Rebecca Read his wife, signers of the above Testament (the wife being examined and interrogated separately and apart from her said husband) and severally acknowledged the same to be their voluntary act and deed hand and seal.

W. Simons Jus. Peace

Received for recording Newport May 31st A.D. 1822 at 3 o'clock P.M. and recorded Newport June 1st, 1822, by Charles Gyles, Town Clerk
Page 68

State of Rhode Island &c,

Newport ss, Town Clerks office, Newport May 13th 1823

I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of a deed from William Read & wife to Elizabeth Richards as recorded in this office, in the Book of Land Evidence [illegible] 15 page 70.

Charles Gyles, Town Clerk
Page 69

Schedule of William Read
Page 72

set my hand & affix the seal of the said Court. on this twenty-sixth day of May 1823.

Benjamin Cowell
Clerk of said Court