Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 15342, Cato Boose, R.I.
Page 1

Service
R.I. 
Boose, Cato 

Number
S-15342 
carded

Contents
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33.321
Rhode Island
Cato Boose, decd
of in the State of
who as a private in the _commanded 
by Captain _ of the _ commanded by _ in the Revolution line for 22 most & 15 days R. I
Inscribed on the Roll of Providence
at the rate of 74 Dollars 29, Cents per annum
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831, & ending 28th February 1839
certificate of Pension issued the 27th day of
October 1855 and sent to B. Cowell 
Providence R.I.
Arrears to the 4th of 
Semi-annual allowance ending 

{Revolutionary Claim,
Act June 7, 1832.}
S T. Getty Clerk
Vol. 1 Page 15
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Cato Boose & Esther Boose
He died Feb. 8, 1839
She died Aug. 15, 1846
22m 15 ds
Enlisted March 6/78
[illegible]  [illegible]  Rolls for the month of January 1780. see indexed Rolls
Mrs. [illegible] 
[illegible]  8.3
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State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 
Municipal Court of city of Providence in the county of Povidence in said state [?ercising]  Probate jurisdiction.
June 26, 1855
Be it remembered, that satisfactory testimony   has been this day, produced before this court, that Cato Boose was married to Esther [Guion?] , in the year seventeen hundred and eighty seven (1787); That they lived together as  man and wife until his death. That he died in said Providence, on the twenty eighth day of February AD one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine. And that said Esther Boose survived him, as his widow, and continued his widow until her death; And that she died on or about the fifteenth day of August A. D. one thousand, eight hundred and fifty six and that, at the time of her death, she left three children, by said Cato; to wit, Margaret Gray, of said Providence, widow; and Lucy Boose and Anthony Boose of South Kings Town in the County of Washington in this state; all of whom are now over twenty one years of age.
 And be it further remembered that satisfactory testimony is this day produced, that said Cato Boose was a soldier in the War of the Revolution; that he was a slave, and enlisted to obtain his freedom: and served in Colonel Greene's Regiment of Continental Troops, of the Rhode Island Line.
And this court further orders, that it be certified that Rev. Nathan B. Crocker whose certificate is here annexed, is Rector of St. Johns Church in said City of Providence: and that full faith and credit is due to the affidavit of Benjamin Cowell, sworn to before this court and here is annexed.
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And this court further orders that it be certified, that from the appearance and statements of said Margaret Gray, she is of the age she states herself to be ; to wit - of the age of sixty five years.
In attestation whereof I have herewith set my hand and have affixed the seal of said court this twenty sixth day of June A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five.
Albert G. Greene, Clerk
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State of Rhode Island
County of Providence
On this 26th day of June AD 1855 personally appeared in open court being the Municipal Court of the city of Providence exercising Probate jurisdiction & a Court of Record, Margaret Gray of said Providence aged 65 years who being duly sworn according to the law makes the following declaration as well for herself as the other children of Cato Boose & Esther Boose in order to obtain all arrears of pension which was due the said Cato at the time of his death under the Act of Congress of June 7 1832 granting to the officers & soldiers of the Revolution  pensions for these services & also to obtain all arrears of pension due their mother the said Esther Boose at the time of her death under the act of Congress of July 7, 1838, March 3rd, 1843 & June 17, 1844 granting pensions to widows of their officers & soldiers who served in the war of the Revolution.
The said Margaret declares that her father the said Cato Boose, was a slave in Rhode Island & he enlisted for during war in the year 1778 to obtain his freedom under the provisions of the act of the General Assembly of Rhode Island, in February of that year, That he was mustered in Col Greenes Regiment of Continental Troops of the Rhode Island Line & served for the greater part of the time in Capt Dexters Company. And the said Margaret further declared that her father was entitled to a pension under said act, but never obtained it.  He lived in the Country in obscurity and it was a long time before he heard any
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thing about it, but he had no one to assist him nor did he know to whom to apply.  Sometimes he was told he could get it & sometimes he was told it would do no good to attempt it, he was discouraged & being a hard working man continued to support himself by his labor until he became too old & decrepit & then he came to Providence & lived with her until his death which event took place on the twenty eighth day of February 1839 leaving her mother the said Esther Boose as his widow & who continued his widow up to the time of her death- and the said Margaret further declared that her father & mother were legally married by the Revd. William Smith an Episcopal Clergyman in the year AD 1787, as will appear by the evidence and as she has always understood and believed, the month & day of the  month she cannot state, as there is no record. And she further declares that her mother, the said Esther, is as entitled to a pension as her fathers widow under the provisions of the act of Congress of July 7, 1838 & subsequent acts of March 3, 1843 & June 17, 1844, up to the time of her death; that her mother died on or about the fifteenth day of August 1846 in the town of South Kingstown, as will appear by the evidence. And the said Margaret further declared that when her mother died, she left three children only, who survived her
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to wit this applicant and Lucy Boose and Anthony Boose of South Kingstown who are now entitled to receive what was due their father & mother and she requests the same to be paid over to them. 
  Margaret Gray her x mark
Witness to signature of Margaret Gray
  Albert G. Greene

In Municipal Court of the city of Providence June 26, 1855 Subscribed and sworn to by Margaret Gray in open court.
 Albert G. Greene, Clerk
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15342 [illegible] 
INVALID
File No. 15342
Cato Boose
Pri Rev War
Act: June 7th 1832
Index:-Vol. 1 Page 40
[Arrangement of 1870]
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Rhode Island Roll
Cato Boose, who was a private Green's Regiment R. I. Troops 
Per Act June 7, 1832
22 months 15 days
[prsch?]  - $74.29 per annum Com [commence]  March 4, 1831 End  Feb. 28, 1839 when he died
To Margaret Gray. Ad'x -  and that of Lucy Boose & Anthony Boose the children
B. Cowell 
Providence R.I.
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Cato Boose
R I -  [illegible]  1832
Providence Sep 12
J Minot Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington DC
FREE

[stamp]
PROVIDENCE SEP 12
Page 12

Cato Boose
R.I. - [?]  1832
J. Minot Commissioner of Pensions
Washington DC

Cole
FREE

[stamp] PROVIDENCE R I OCT 3
Page 13

Cato Boose [illegible]  28 Feb 1839
Margareat Gray Admr
Lucy Boose
Anthony Boose

Cato Boose 
R.I. [illegible]  1832
[stamp]
PROVIDENCE AUG  R. I.
Hon J. Minot Commissioner of Pensions
Washington DC

Cole
Page 14

[illegible] 
Cato Boose decd
Rhode Island
Benj Cowell July 14, 1855
Same Aug 27 1855
Same Sept. 18 /55
June 7, 1832
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Cato / Esther Boose
R. I. original
[stamp]
PROVIDENCE R.I. JUL 6

L. P. Waldo Commissioner of Pensions
Washington DC
Free

Cole
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Brief in the case of Cato Boose, deceased
Providence County and State of Rhode Island
Act June 7, 1832
Claim, ("original " or " for increase")
Proof exhibited, (if original)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Twenty-two months and fifteen days service is established by the Rolls in this office, and with which Cato Boose, the father of the parties who have asserted the claim, is satisfactorily
identified. Evidence of death, heirship, & in accordance with the Regulations
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Name and residence of Agent
B. Cowell 
Providence R.I.
Examining Clerk.
Ogden Niles
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Providence Oct. 8th, 1855
Sir,
I received your letter of 18 ult requesting the claims of Esther Boose widow of Cato, a soldier in Col. Greens Regiment, you observe that if Gov. Hopkins & Ex Gov Francis will make a joint affidavit that in their opinion the father of Margaret Gray & the Cato Boose of Olneys Regiment we're one & the same person, the claim will be admitted. I have now the honor to enclose their joint affidavit to that fact, and have to request that the pension be allowed.  Some little delay has taken place in consequence of the absence of Gov Francis from the City - The official character of John R. Randolph has, I believe, already been certified in this case- 
I am very respectfully your obt. Servt.
Benja Cowell
Hon J Minot
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Providence Sept 12 1855
Sir,
In reply to your letter of 27 ult in relation to the claim of Cato Boose for a pension or rather of his children, I herewith enclose further evidence the archives of this state are very deficient in the records of Revolutionary service but the certificate of the Secretary of State, now enclosed, shows he served to the end of the War.  The report of the committee of the Legislature proves this fact.  This report bears date Feb 26 1783 about the close of the War and if Cato Boose had deserted or had been dishonorably discharged, all his claims for pay would have been forfeited. But at that time his name is on the "List of effective officers & soldiers belonging to Col Olneys battalion" and he was allowed a balance of depreciation from Aug 1780 to December 31, 1781" He enlisted into Col Greens Regiment commonly called the "Black Regiment" in May 1778, but after Col Greene was killed Col Olney was appointed "Lieut Col Commandant" and Col Olney was his friend and to whom he was much attached as appears by the testimony.
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I presume no remark of mine can add any weight to the evidence. But I must be permitted to say, that he ought not to be held accountable for the deficiencies in the records of that Regiment You ask "Did he [illegible] received land from the U. S. If so let the fact be shown" In reply to which I have to say the presumption is, he never did. This affidavit from the testimony now enclosed, for can it be considered his fault, if his name is not among the [illegible] men" entitled to land in your office the same thing may be said in a great many cases. I have reason to believe, nor does the pension act of June 7 1832 require this to be proved; it only requires two years faithful service to entitle one to a full pension. This has been done in this case & more than two years 
 You observe in your letter that it must be shown "that the soldier & the father of the applicant are one & the same person". In proof of this fact, I refer you to the affidavits of Patience Wamsley & George Smith as well as to the [illegible] of the probate court. It is unfortunate perhaps, that there is not a man living in Rhode Island who belonged to that Regiment.  If there was, perhaps some further [paral?] testimony might be produced
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I presume it may not be improper to add that this case has excited considerable interest derived from tradition of Cato, He was a brave soldier, fought desperately in several battles, was possessed of gigantic strength and on one occasion saved a cannon from being taken by the enemy  The honest character of his daughter, Margaret Gray, has also called out considerable feeling and interest.  The present Governor of Rhode Island, Gov Hopkin, has taken a deep interest in the case & is one of the bondsmen, on the Administration Bonds, given to the court of Probate and Ex  Governor Francis is the other both descendants of patriots of the Revolution. These facts, I admit, has nothing to do with the records of the case, but they show the interest felt here. But I hope & expect that they are such as will entitle the claim to a favorable consideration.
I am respectfully your obt. sert.
Benja Cowell
Hon. J. Minot
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Providence Aug 15th, 1855
Sir,
I Recd your letter of 14 ult respecting the claim of Cato Boose or rather of his children for arrears of pension under this acct of June 7, 1832, as you have directed. I now enclose a copy of the act of the Legislature respecting the enlistment of "Slaves" to serve during the war, duly certified. This act was passed in February 1778 & Cato enlisted soon afterwards. I also enclose a certificate of the appointment of Margaret Gray as administratrix, on the estate of Cato, which has been done at your suggestion or rather of your predecessor together with the amount of the land given. By the laws of Rhode Island, it is necessary to give 3 or 4 weeks public notice of the appointment of administrator on the estates of persons deceased & this is the reason why the certificate could not be attained & sent before.
It will be seen that the enlisting of Slaves to "[?..ist] the Continental Battalions" was a measure, recommended by Gen Washington
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It is well known historical fact that the "black regiment" of Rhode Island, as this regiment was called, fought bravely in a number of battles & suffered severely; and I have [illegible] that Cato was said to be the "strongest man" in the regiment.
It appears by the terms of the act that slaves might have enlisted "during the war" to attain their freedom & this fact is also proved by the [illegible] documents which I forwarded with the claim & that Cato did so enlist & serve. There cannot be any doubt. I have therefore to request that the claim be granted.
I am respectfully your obt. sert.
Benj Cowell
Hon. J Minot
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Estate of Cato Boose
copy
Letter of Administration.
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State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations Providence Sc}
Clerk's office of the Municipal Court of the City of Providence, exercising Probate Jurisdiction
August 15th A. D. 1855
I certify that the within are true copies of a letter of Administration issued by said court, and of the certificate of the Record of the same in this office and that the within named administration has given bond to said court, in the penal sum of one thousand dollars.
Witness my hand and the seal of said Court.
Albert G. Greene, Clerk
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Copy
Letter of Administration.
The State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations.
Providence, Sc.
By the Municipal Court of the City of
Providence, in the County of Providence.
and State aforesaid, exercising Probate
jurisdiction.
To
Margaret Gray, of the City, County, and State aforesaid,
Greeting.
You having been appointed by this Court, Administratrix on the real and personal Estate of ^ your late Father Cato Boose, late of the City of Providence, deceased, intestate, and having given bond as the law directs, are hereby authorized and empowered to receive, recover and take possession of the Estate, which to the said Cato Boose, at the time of his death, did appertain and belong, and the same fully to administer according to law.
Witness, Francis E. Hoppin, Esquire, Judge of
the Municipal Court of the City of Providence, this fourteenth day of August, in the year
of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and fifty -five.
Albert G. Greene, Clerk
The foregoing Letter of Administration is recorded in Book No. [illegible] Page 232 of the Records of said Court for recording such Letters.
Witness
A.G. Greene Clerk }
[words crossed out]
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Providence Sept. 21, 1855
We the undersigned do hereby certify that Margaret Gray "Administratrix on the estate of Cato Boose" a soldier in Col Greenes & subsequently in Col Olney's Regiment in the war of the Revolution is in our opinion, the daughter of Cato & Esther Boose deceased.
John Brown Francis
William W. Hoppin 
Providence  September 21st A.D. 1855
I certify that foregoing affidavit was subscribed and sworn to by said William W Hoppin in my presence and further certify that said William W. Hoppin is the present Governor of the state of Rhode Island
John R Randolph Justice of the peace
Providence  October 6, 1855
I hereby certify that this foregoing affidavit was subscribed and sworn to before me this day by John Brown Francis, and I further certify that said John Brown Francis was formerly Governor of the state of Rhode Island.
John R. Randolph Justice of the Peace
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State of Rhode Island
Secretary's Office
Providence Aug 31. 1855
I certify that on the list of effective officers and
soldiers belonging to Colonel Olney's battallion together with the balances of depreciation found due them from August 1780 to December 31 1781, by a Committee of the General Assembly, which report is dated at Providence February 26. 1783, that there was found
due to Cato Boose £ 4. 6. 8. It also appears
that said balances were to draw compound interest from January 1. 1782 until paid
I do not find any other evidence connected
with said Cato's discharge
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my hand, and affixed the seal of the State
this thirty first day of August AD. 1855
John R Bartlett
Secretary of State
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I Robert Perry of Smithfield in the County of Providence and State of Rhode Isalnd do testify and say, that I am now in my seventy sixth year of my age, that I was born in South Kingston in said State and lived there till about Twenty years ago, and I further testify and say that I was well acquainted with Cato Boose. Said Cato as I have always understood was a Slave, and he enlisted in the war of the Revolution to obtain his freedom, in Col. Green's Regiment and he served to the end of the war and was regularly discharged.  He had a wife and family of children. The said Cato was a very strong and gigantic man, and I have heard it said that he could knock down a bull.  I have always understood that he served faithfully during the whole war, and was honorably discharged.
Robert Perry
Smithfield Sept. 10, 1855
Personally appeared before me the above named Robert Perrry and made oath to the above deposition by him signed in my presence, and I further certify that I am personally well acquainted with the said Robert Perry and
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he is a credible witness, and his testimony entitled to full credit, and I also certify that I have no interest in the subject matter of this deposition.
Samuel S. Mallery
Justice of the Peace
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I Patience Wamsley of the city and county of Providence and State of Rhode Island being duly sworn deposeth and say, that I am eighty-three years of age, and I further testify in regard to the services of Cato Boose a soldier in the war of the Revolution, as I have before testified some time after Cato Boose and Esther [?nion]  were married, they came to live with my uncle Zebullon Wamsley in North Kingstown in said State and I remember that they had two children when they came there, and I also have a distinct recollection that Cato very often spoke of his services in the war of the revolution.  He used to say that he had served through the whole war of the Revolution and was regularly discharged, and he would fight again if there was another war.  I have also heard him speak about the land, to which he said he was entitled, and have a distinct recollection that a man came to him once to buy in and the man wanted Cato to go before a magistrate and sign a paper and Cato told him he couldn't go that day, that he had engaged to work that day to get a pair of shoes; the man told him he'd give him a pair of shoes, if he'd go sign off; he went to the shoe maker and got a pair and Cato told him they were not big enough and he wouldn't take them, and the man went off. The man did not return. Cato
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after that, used to say that he would go up to Providence to sell his land, but he never went to my knowledge, he said as Colonel Olney was dead he did not know who to go to. and as I have before testified when Cato died he left three children to wit Margaret Gray of Providence, Lucy Boose & Anthony Boose of South Kingstown, all the above facts are within my distinct recollection.
Patience Wamsley her x mark
Witness
John R. Randolph
State of Rhode Island Providence Sc.  
Providence September 4, 1855
I hereby certify that Patience Wamsley known to me to be a credible witness after being duly sworn to testify the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth; testified as in the foregoing deposition is contained, and subscribed said deposition in my presence, the same having been reduced to writing by me and read [over?] to her previous to her signing.
John R Randolph
Justice of the Peace.
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THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
PROVIDENCE, SC.
CLERK'S OFFICE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS,
Providence Sept 12" A.D. 1855
I Amasa S. Westcott
Clerk of the COURT OF COMMON PLEAS of said State, within and for the court of Providence:
DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That
John R. Randolph was on the fourth day
of September A.D. 1823, a Justice of the Peace for said County of Providence and also that Samuel S. Mallory was on the 10th day of said September a Justice of the Peace for said county duly appointed and qualified, and authorized to administer oaths and take depositions and the acknowledgement of deeds and other instruments, and that the signatures to the annexed certificates, purporting to be theirs are genuine.
IN ATTESTATION WHEREOF,  I hereto subscribe my name, and affix the seal of said court, the day and year above written.
Amasa S. Westcott Clerk.
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Copy of the act for enlisting Slaves
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State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 
February Session A.D. 1778
Act permitting Slaves to enlist in the Continental Battallions.
Whereas further preservation of the rights & liberties of the United States it is necessary that the whole powers of Government should be expected in recruiting the Continental Battallions: And whereas His Excellency General Washington hath enclosed to this State a proposal made to him by Brigadier General Varnum to enlist into the two Battallions, raising by this State, such Slaves as should be willing to enter into service; And whereas history offers us frequent precedents of the wisest, the freest, and bravest nations having liberated their slaves, and enlisted them as soldiers to fight in defence of their country; and also whereas the enemy with a great force have taken possession of the capital, and of a great part of this State; and this State is obliged to raise a very considerable number of troops for its own immediate defence, whereby it is, in a manner rendered impossible for this State to furnish recruits for the said two Battallions, without adopting the said measure so recommended.
It is voted and resolved, that every able-bodied Negro, Mulatto, or Indian Man Slave, in this State may enlist into either of the said two Battallions to serve during the continuance of the present war with Great Britain: That every slave so enlisting, shall be entitled to, and receive, all the bounties, wages, and encouragements, allowed by the Continental Congress, to any soldier enlisting into their service.
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It is further voted and resolved. That every slave so enlisting, shall upon his passing muster before Colonel Christopher Greene, be immediately discharged from the service of his master or mistress, and be absolutely Free, as though he had never been encumbered with any kind of servitude or slavery.  And in case such slave shall, by sickness or otherwise, be rendered unable to maintain himself, he shall not be chargeable to his master or mistress, but shall be supported at the expense of the State.
And whereas Slaves have been, by the laws, denied the property of their owners; and therefore compensation ought to be made to the owners for the loss of their service; It is voted and resolved.  That there be allowed, and paid by this State to the owner, for every such slave so enlisting, a sum according to his worth, a price not exceeding one hundred and twenty pounds for the most valuable slave; and in proportion for a slave of top value. Provided, the owner of the slave shall deliver up to the officer, who shall enlist him, the clothes of the said slave, or otherwise he shall not be entitled to said sum.
  And further settling and asartaining [ascertaining] the value of said slaves, It is further voted and resolved, that a  committee office be appointed, to wit; one from each county, any three of whom to be a quorum, to examine the slaves who shall be so enlisted, after they shall have passed muster, and to set a price upon each Slave according to his value as aforesaid.
  And It is further voted and resolved, that upon any able bodied Negro, Mulatto, or Indian slave, enlisting as aforesaid, the officer who shall so enlist him, after he shall have passed muster as aforesaid, shall deliver a
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certificate thereof to the master or mistress of said Negro, Mulatto, or Indian Slave; which shall discharge him from the service of his said master or mistress as aforesaid.
It is further noted and resolved; That the committee who shall estimate the value of any slave as aforesaid, shall give a certificate of the sum at which he may be valued to the owner of the Slave; And the General Treasurer of this State is hereby empowered and directed to give unto the said owner of said Slave his promissory note, as Treasurer as aforesaid, for the sum of money at which he shall be valued as aforesaid, payable on demand, with interest at the rate of six per cent per annum; and that said notes, which shall be so given shall be paid with the money which is due this State, and is expected from Congress; the money which has been borrowed out of the General Treasury, by this Assembly, being first replaced.
I certify that the foregoing is a true copy of an act passed at the February session of the General Assembly of this State A.D. 1778.  The testimony where of, I have hereunto affixed my hand this fifteenth day of August A.D. 1855
John R. Bartlett
Secretary of State
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Providence July 6, 1855
Sir,
I herewith enclose the claims of Cato Boose & Esther Boose his widow for pensions under the act of Congress of June 7, 1832 & July 7, 1838 or rather of their children, they having deceased; The reason why Cato did not apply for a pension in his life time will abundantly appear from the testimony.  He was a "Slave'  & enlisted to obtain his freedom. This act for enlisting slaves into the army can be found in in [sic] the "Spirit of 76 in Rhode Island" a work published by me in 1850 pages 159, 160 & 161, I believe this book is in the pension office, if not, I will be happy to furnish the office with one if desirable, in answer to a letter from the commission of Pensions, several years ago; The Secretary of this State, I believe, pronounced it authentic.
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Most of the slaves were enlisted soon after the passage of this act & they had the credit of being brave soldiers in several battles.
I am Respectfully 
your obt. Servt.
Benja Cowell

Hon L P Waldo
Page 39

Let this certify that Cato Boose died
on the 28th of February 1839, and was buried on
the second day of March following, & that I 
performed the funeral services. I also certify
that Margaret Gray, his daughter is
a member and communicant of St. Johns Church, in good standing
N B Crocker
 of St. John's Church
Providence Mar 18, 1855
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State of Rhode Island
Providence June 1855
I hereby certify that the old papers hereto annexed one "Muster Roll of the fourth company of foot in the 1 Battallion of Rhode forces  in the service of the United States commanded by Col Greene [Esq] " the other a "Return of the mens names that were slaves & enlisted during the war in the fourth company of foot commanded by Leut. [Lieut] Brown Dec. 1779" were received by me from the family of the late Daniel S Dexter of this city who was at the date thereof, as it appears a Lieut & Col of Muster Pro Tem" in said Col Greene's Regiment in the war of the Revolution and I believe them genuine documents.
Benja. Cowell

In Municipal Court of the City of Providence
June 26,1855
Subscribed and sworn to by Benjamin Cowell, in open court.
Albert G. Greene, Clerk
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I George Smith of the city & county of Providence in the state of Rhode Island of the age of seventy years on oath depose and say, I was well acquainted with Cato Boose the husband pf Esther Boose.   I was acquainted with Cato about thirty years ago. That was before he came to Providence to reside with his daughter. Afterwards he came to Providence and resided with his daughter Margaret Gray, until his death about sixteen years ago.  I was at his funeral and the Rev. W. Crocker performed the funeral services. She said Cato left three children who are ow living to wit the said Margaret Gray and Lucy Boose and Anthony Boose. And I further testify that I have frequently heard him speak of his services in the war of the Revolution.  He was a slave as I have understood and enlisted to obtain his freedom. I have often heard him speak of his being entitled to a pension on account of his service in the war, but he had no one to go forward and aid him.  Sometimes someone would inform him that he had got all that he could get; then again others told him that
Page 42

he would get it and advised him to apply for it. But he never had any one to take the lead and apply to the proper authorities for him and he did not know where to go and died I believe without ever obtaining it.  I became well acquainted with Cato on account of his daughter Margaret Gray working in Mr. Nicholas Browns family where I have lived for more than thirty years last past. I knew John Boose another of the children of Cato who died at sea in Mr. Browns employ.  I was also acquainted with Esther Boose the wife of said Cato and they always lived together as man and wife until his death.
George his x mark Smith
Witness Wm Knowles
State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
Providence Sc   
Providence June 14th 1855
Then appeared before me, George Smith, the above named deponent to me well known & a credible witness and gave the foregoing deposition by him signed in my presence, after being by me reduced to writing, under oath. And I further certify that I have no interest in the subject matter of this deposition.
Wm. Knowles Justice of the Peace
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I Patience Wamsley of the city and county of Providence and State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations do testify and say that I  am eighty three years of age that I was born in North Kingstown in said State and resided there until about forty years of age and I further testify that I was well acquainted with Cato Boose of said North Kingston sometimes called [Sharper?]. Boose was a near neighbor to him and also with Esther [Inien?] whom he married and I have a distinct recollection of the circumstances of his marriage. It was when I was about fourteen or fifteen years of age Cato and Esther went to work for the Reverend William Smith an Episcopal Clergyman who was the Pastor of the Episcopal Church in North Kingston. I remember also that another man by the name of Jack Sanford and another woman by the name of Patience Stanton also worked for Mr. Smith on the farm, Esther used to spin and Patience did the housework. It was at this time that they were all married the same evening. The Rev Mr. Smith married them, Jack Sanford and Patience Stanton were first married and Cato and Esther stood up as groomsman and brides maid and then Cato and Esther were married at the same time.  I remember their marriage made considerable talk among the neighbors and made a deep impression uppon my mind. After their marriage, they lived a long life together as man and wife and had a family of children and what makes this marriage still more impressed uppon my memory is I well remember that Cato and his wife came to live with my Uncle Zebulon Wamsley and I also remember they had two children when they came to live there the time they were married.
Page 44

I can state from my own age I am eighty three years of age. I was about fifteen years of age when they were married, which marriage took place about the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty seven.  Cato lived until the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine when he died at his daughters house in Providence. His Widow survived and lived until about five years ago when she also died.  His Daughters name is Margaret Gray, and I further testify that it was always understood in the neighborhood where said Cato lived in the early part of his life, that he had been a soldier of the Revolution, that he was a slave and that he enlisted to obtain his freedom and that he did service until the end of the war and was in the Regiment under Col Greene and I remember when Col Olney died who also commanded the Regiment after Col Greene was killed.  That Cato went to his funeral. He used to have a great deal to say about Col Olney. Cato and Esther had five children three of whom are now living to wit  said Margaret Gray, Lucy Boose and Anthony Boose.  I remember also that Cato has often told me in the latter part of his life that he believed he was entitled to a pension but he had no one to aid him to take up the matter.  My memory is good as respects  [antient  - ancient?]  matters and  I have a distinct recollection of all the facts above mentioned.
Patience her X mark Wamsley
Witness Silas Heminway
Page 45

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations County of Providence in the city of Providence this second day of April 1855.
Personally appeared before me the above named Patience Wamsley and made oath the above deposition by her signed in my presence and I further testify that I am acquainted with said deponent and that she is a credible witness and possesses a remarkable good memory for one of her age. I hereby been acquainted for sixteen or seventeen years.  I also certify that I have no interest in this claim.
Silas Hemenway, Justice of the Peace
Page 46

I William Peckham of South Kingstown County of Washington in the State of Rhode Island do testify and say, that I am now in my seventy fourth year of age.  That I was well acquainted with Cato Boose (sometimes call Sharper Boose) the husband of Esther Boose, the said Esther lived in a house belonging to me in the year eighteen hundred & forty six and she died while living in my house, and according to my best recollection in the month of August.  the day of the month I do not recolect [recollect], as it does not appear from my Book accounts, and I further certify that said Cato was a Slave as I have always understood and enlisted in the war to obtain his freedom in Col Green's Regiment of the Revolutionary Army. The said Cato and Esther always lived together as man and wife, and brought up a family of children.
 Wm.Peckham
In presence of

State of Rhode Island
County of Washington} Sc   
South Kingstown June 11th 1855. Personally appeared before me the above named William Peckham, and made solemn affirmation to the truth of the above deposition by him signed and I further certify that he was formerly one of the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas within & for said county and he is a credible witness and that I have no interest in this claim.
DMC Stedman Pub Notary
Page 47

Town Clerk's Office,
North Kingstown June 20, 1855
I hereby certify that I have examined the records of Marriages which have taken place in said Town between the years 1780 & 1800, which are in my possession by within of my office, but cannot find any record of the marriage of Cato Boose to Esther [Inion?] I further certify that I believe many marriages in former times have taken place in said Town, which have never been brought to be recorded
Sam Peirce Clk.

Washington Sc.
North Kingstown June 20, 1855
Sworn to & subscribed before me by said Sam Peirce known to me as Town Clerk of said North Kingstown
Isaac C. Champlin Justice Peace
Page 48

I Richard Sands of Providence in the State of Rhode Island do certify and say that I am now forty [fir - four?] years of age,that I was [illegible] acquainted with Cato Boose late of said Providence the husband of said Esther Boose, also deceased, said Cato died in said Providence  at the home of Margaret Gray his daughter. I watched with him the night he died and saw him breathe his last. The [Cirat?] took place on the 28th day of [?] Aug 1839 according to my best recollection, and I [attended?] him [?] two days afterward. I remember that the Rev Dr Crocker [?] the funeral service. I well remember that in conversation with said Cato he used to say he had been a soldier of the Revolution.
  Richard Sands his X mark
Attest Henry L Bowen

Providence Sc  In Providence this 16th day of June AD 1855  [?] and [?] to before me and I further Certify the said Richard Sands to be a credible witness and that I have no interest in this claim.
  Henry L Bowen
 Justice Peace.
Page 49

I Philis Gardner of Newport in the county of Newport and State of Rhode Island, do testify and say that  am now eighty years of age, that I was born in North Kingstown in said State, and I further testify that I was well acquainted with Cato Boose, and also with his wife Esther, her name was before marriage Esther [Inion] , I well remember the time when they were married, although I was very young, they were married by the Rev. William Smith, as I have always understood and believe.  I well remember Mr. Smith and have heard him preach at the Narragansett Church, said Cato and Esther always lived together as man and wife afterwards - and had a family of children- Cato Boose died many years before his wife in Providence. she died only four or five years since in South Kingstown, said Cato was a soldier of the Revolution, as I have always understood and believe.
Philis her X mark Gardner
In presence of Benj.B Howland

State of Rhode Island & Newport Ss
Newport  May 29, AD 1855
Personally appeared before me, the above named Philis Gardener, and made oath to the truth of the above deposition by her signed, and I further certify that she is personally known to me, as a credible witness and as a member of the Episcopal Church in this city in good standing, and I further certify that I have no interest in this claim.
Benj B Howland
Justice of the Peace
Page 50

I Henrietta Perry of South Kingstown in the County of Washington State of Rhode Island, do testify and say that I am ninety years of age, that I was well acquainted with Cato Boose, and Esther his wife. I was always acquainted with them. I have often heard Cato speak of his services in the war of the Revolution. he was a Slave and enlisted to obtain his freedom.  his wife's name was Ester Inion before they were married.  After they were married, they always lived together as  man & wife until his death.  His wife Ester died in this town some years ago.  They brought up a family of children. I have often heard Cato say that he was entitled to a pension.
Henrietta her X mark Perry
In presence of DMC Stedman

State of Rhode Island
County of Washington} Sc.
South Kingstown June 11th 1855.  Personally appeared before me, the above named Henrietta Perry and made oath the truth of the above deposition by her signed and she is a credible witness.  She has been personally known to me for thirty years.
DMC Stedman
Pub. Notary
Page 51

I Simon Niles of Newport in the County of Newport in the State of Rhode Island, do testify and say that I am now in my seventy third year of age, that I was always well acquainted with Cato Boose of North Kingtown and his wife Esther Boose.  I was always acquainted with them ever since I was a boy, Cato died many years ago and Esther died only about four or five years ago. I was present at her funeral, she died in South Kingstown, and I saw her buried.  And I further testify that I have always understood that Cato Boose was a soldier of the Revolution, and it was so always understood in the neighborhood where he lived.  I have after heard Cato Boose speak about his service in the war of the Revolution, and he used to tell me that he was entitled to a pension, but had no one to go forward for him.
Simon his X mark Niles
In presence of Benj.B Howland

State of Rhode Island Sc
Newport Sc
New port May 29 AD 1855
Personally appears before me, the above named Simon Niles, and made oath to the truth of the above deposition by him signed, and is a credible witness
Benj. B Howland 
Justice of the Peace
Page 52

I Hannah M. Greene of Newport in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island, do testify and say, that I am now sixty six years of age, and I further testify that ever since I was a child, I knew Cato Boose the husband of Esther Boose. I have always understood said Cato was a soldier of the revolution, it was so understood in the neighborhood, where he resided.  I have also understood that said Cato Boose married Esther Inion, and that they were married in North Kingstown by the Rev. William Smith an Episcopal Minister, and I know that they always lived together as man and wife until his death and brought up a family of children, said Cato died in Providence and his widow the said Esther died in South Kingstown as I have understood and believe but four or five years ago.
Hannah her X mark Greene
In presence of Benj. B Howland

State of Rhode Island & 
Newport Sc
Newport May 29, AD 1855
Personally appeared before me, the above named Hannah M. Greene, and made oath to the truth of the above deposition by her signed, and I further certify that she is personally known to me, as a credible witness, and as a member of the First Baptist Church in this City in good standing.
Benj. B. Howland
Justice of the Peace
Page 53

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 
Secretary of States office
Providence June 22, 1855
I certify that William Knowles, Silas Hemenway, and Henry L. Brown  before whom the several preceeding depositions were taken and sworn to, were at the several times of the [illegible]  thereof Justices of the Peace within the City and county of Providence.   That Benjamin B. Howland before whom the several preceeding depositions were taken and sworn to was at the [Castion?] thereof a Justice of the Peace within the City and County of Newport.  That Isaac C. Champlin before whom the Town Clerks certificate of North Kingstown was sworn is a Justice of the Peace and Daniel M. C. Stedman a Public Notary within and for the County of Washington, and that all the preceeding officers are duly qualified and are authorized by law to administer oaths, take acknowledgements &c and that full faith and credit are due to their official acts.
In witness whereof i have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the State aforesaid, this twenty second day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred fifty five.
John R. Bartlett
Secretary of State
Page 54

Cato Boose
Sur. File 15.342
Muster roll of the 4 co of foot in the 1 Battlin [Battalion] of R. I. forces, commanded by Col. Green dated, Newport Feb. 7, 1780 signed Daniel S. Dexter and E. Cornell, B. Gen'l has been removed from this case to be forwarded the War Dept.
L. H
Dec. 15, 1908
Sent to War Dept. 
Jan 16, 1913

[right side]
Cato Boose
Sur. file. 15.342
Return of men's names who were slaves and enlisted in the 4" co of foot commanded by Lieut Brown, dated Dec 1779; has been removed from this case to be forwarded to the War Dept.

L.H.
Dec 15. 1908
Sent to War Dept. 
Jan 16, 1913
Page 55

The National Archives
Form VAM'51
12-5-41
Bounty Land Warrant Record Card
Division of Veterans Affairs
Name Booswith, James
Grade Drum Major
Line New York
Warrant Number 6765 Acreage 100 issued July 24, 1790 to John Lawrence, assigned
The information concerning the issuance of warrants carded on this form is found in volume 2 to 4 of Land Warrants Prior to 1800 which are registers of bounty land warrants issued to non-commissioned officers and privates under congresstional resolutions of September 16, 1776 and subsequent dates.  other records relative to the applications for warrants appear to have been destroyed in the War Department fire of November [illegible]  1800. Information concerning warrants surrendered to the Federal Government is to be found in General Land Office records in The National Archives