Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 23,068, John French, Mass. N.H
Page 1

Service Mass.N.H
French, John Nancy
Number W. 23,068

Contents
Page 2

[left half of document]

1,459
New York Rolls

John French
Sergeant   [unclear whether there are two vertical lines or the number "11"]
Massachusetts line 1775.  7 yrs 11 mo
in the army of the United States during the Revolutionary War.

Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 8- Dollars per month, to commence on the 20 of April 1818 - 

Certificate of Pension issued on the 30 of June 1818 and sent to Pensioner  
Spencer - Tioga Co N Y

Arrears to 4th of Sept in 1818.
[text crossed out]

4 Mos. 15/30   $36"-

{Revolutionary claim, Act 18th March, 1818}

Greaton
Spencer.  Tioga
Continued

[right half of document]

original discharge sent to Hon Thos Maxwell
H R 22 Feby 1830, see letter 
Died April 1831- See letter
30 Dec. 1835 to P. Agt.

Notification sent Nov. 8th 1820 to Thos. Maxwell, Spencer N. Y.
Page 3

[left half of document]

529
New York     Albany

Nancy French 
Mass
widow of John French
who was a Sergeant
in the Mass line
for 2 years Sergeant

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of - 120 Dollars - 
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.

Certificate of Pension, issued the 23rd day of June, 1843 and sent to 
Maxwell & Tyler
Agents
Elmira, N.Y.

(Act of March 3, 1843.)
Recorded in Book A.
Vol. 1.  Page 106.

[right half of document]

to Hon. S. G Ellswoth  apl 17 '46
F. Brown  Nov. 11. 1854
E. F. Brown.
Dec. 6/54
Same Dec 16 1854
Same June 24. 1855
F. B. Swift   Mch 10 1833
E. F. Brown APl 5. 1855
June  April 13. '55
Hon. W. L. Marcy,
Aug. 13,/55
E. F. Brown,
Aug. 24/55.
Page 4

Free

Hon. J. C. Calhoun
Secr. War
Washington City

The Judge must certify that the claimant is in indigent circumstances 

Correct

Mr Boyd
Page 5

[text obliterated] of New York
Tioga County ss

On this twentieth day of April 1818, before me the subscriber one of the Judges of the Court of Common pleas in and for the County of Tioga in the State of New York personally appeared John French aged sixty two years Resident in the Town of Spencer in the County of Tioga and State of New York 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 & naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war, that the said John French inlisted in the State of New Hampshire in a place called Lancaster in the company commanded by Capt. John Parker in the Regiment Commanded by Col. Timothy Beedle on or about the 11th day of July 1775,  and marched into Canada and was at the siege of St. John's & from there to the Siege of Quebec with General Montgomery, and from Quebec was in the Retreat to Ticonderoga which was in 1776 [year underlined[ on the 14th day of November 1776 did then inlist in a place called Mount Independence in the then State of New York (Now Vermont) near Ticonderoga, in the Company Commanded by Capt. Abraham Watson in the third Massachusetts Regiment Commanded by Col John Greaton, during the war, and was at the taking of Genl. Burgoyne in the year 1777 and was also at the Captor of Lord Cornwallis's army at York Town in the State of Virginia, and remained in the Service till the end of the war and was discharged at Newburgh in the State of New York on the 8th day of June 1783 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
Page 6

Possession of his said Services except the inclosed Discharge
John French

Sworn to and declared before me, the day and year aforesaid 
Joshua Ferris - one of the Judges of the Court of Common pleas in and for the said County of Tioga

Tioga County ss  I Joshua Ferris Judge of as aforesaid do certify that it appears to my full Satisfaction that the said John French did serve in the revolutionary war as Stated in the preceding declaration against the common enemy and I now transmit the precedings and testimony taken and had before me, to the Secretary of the department of war pursuant to the directions of the aforementioned act of Congress April 10th 1818.
Joshua Ferris - one of the Judges of the said County of Tioga 

I Joshua Ferris Judge as aforesaid Do further Certify that I am personally acquainted with the said John French and believe him to be in very indigent & reduced Circumstances and that he stands in great need of the assistance of his Country for support, -
Dated at Spencer July 4th 1818
Joshua Ferris
Page 7

Exd
Copy of Oath & Schedule 
of
John French

1459
Sept 1818
CM

Ths. Maxwell
Spencer
Nov. 8th 1820
Page 8

Copy

State of New York
Tioga County   SS.   

On this ninth day of September 1920 personally appeared in open Court being a Court of Common pleas, holden in and for the said County, in said state, constituted a Court of Record by the laws of said state, with power to hear, try and determine all actions, real personal and mixed, arising in the said county, and also all 
transitory actions, although the same may not have arisen within the said County, and with other powers, John French, aged sixty five years, resident in the Town of Spencer in the said County, who being first duly sworn according to Law, doth on his oath declare that he served in the Revolutionary War as follows.  That he enlisted in the month of July 1775 in Capt. John Parker's Company in Col. Beetles Regiment, in the Town of Lancaster State of New Hampshire; that he served under Montgomery at the siege of St. John's: then enlisted in Captain Charles Nelson's company in Major John Brown's detachment to serve 'till the 15th of April 1776 and went to Quebec under the command of Genl Montgomery after the expiration of the said Term, he enlisted in Capt. Seth Wheeler's Company, in a regiment commanded by Col Elisha Porter from Massachusetts to serve 'til the last of December 1776: on the 14th of November 1776, at Mount Independence near Ticonderoga he enlisted to serve during the war in the 3d Massachusetts Regiment commanded by Col. John Greaton in Capt. Abraham Watsons company; and that he served in said regiment until the 8th day of June 1783, when he was discharged near Newburgh; that his discharge was sent with his original application to the War Department: that he has received a Certificate from the Secretary at War No. 1459, dated 30th June 1818, by which he is inscribed on the pension list roll of the N. Y. agency at Eight Dollars per month to commence on the 20th of April 1818 - And I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States, on the 18th day of March 1878, and that I have not since that time by gift, sale, or in any manner disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress entitled "an act to provide for certain persons
Page 9

engaged in the Land and naval services 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 me, nor have I any other income than what is contained in the Schedule hereunto annexed, and by me subscribed.  That by occupation he was a laborer, but in consequence of the natural infirmities incident to his advanced age, he is unable to do hard labor: that he received a wound in his left hand by an axe about Eleven years ago by which that hand is almost entirely disabled: that his wife is aged about fifty years, and has always been in a weakly state of health

That [text crossed out] the names of his family who reside with him & are supported by him are as follows: Nancy aged 18 years in delicate health; Fanny aged Seventeen years in ordinary health; Sally aged Fifteen years in ordinary health; Harry aged thirteen years who does not reside with me, but whom I have to furnish in Clothing etc: that the three first do not contribute to my support - 
Signed,
John French

Sworn to and declared in open Court this 9th day of Septr. 1820
Signed: Gamaliel H. Barstow First Judge.

A just and true Inventory of the Estate & income of John French the Revolutionary Pensioner mentioned in the affidavit hereto annexed -

1 Cow.  1 Ton of Hay.  1 old Table.  1 Stand.  5 Chairs old. 1 Frying Pan old & broken.  6 Earthen plates.  6 Small do.  3 Earthen Bowls. 1 Scythe Swathe.  1 Mustard pot.  1 Chamber pot.  1 Meat Tub  1 Churn 15 years old. 2 Firkins. 1 pr. And Irons small. 1 Pye Pan & broken lid. 1 Common Iron pot.  I Dish Kettle.  1 Small Do  8 Knives & 4 forks old. 2 Teapots. 2 Milk Cups. 6 Spoons. 2 Razors & Shaving Box.  1 Pitch Fork.  1 Old poor axe.  2 Chests  1 Meal Chest.  1 Cleaver.  1 Salt Cellar.  1 Soap Barrel old, 
(Signed)  John French
September 9th 1820
Page 10

1 Churn 15 years old.  2 Firkins.  1 [text cut off by fold or cut in top of document] & broken lid. 1 Common Iron pot.  1 Dish Kettle.  1 Small do  8 Knives & 4 forks old.  2 Teapots.  2 Milk Cups.  6 Spoons --- 2 Razors & Shaving Box.  1 Pitch Fork.  1 Old Poor Ax.  2 Chests   1 Meal Chest.  1 Cleaver.  1 Salt Cellar.  1 Soap Barrel old
September 9th 1820  (Signed)   John French

State of Newyork
Tioga County Ss      I Thomas Maxwell Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of the said County above mentioned do hereby certify that the foregoing oath & Schedule are truly copied from the Records of the said Court - And further that it is the opinion of the said Court that the total amount in value of the property exhibed in the foregoing schedule is Twenty Nine Dollars and twelve Cents.  In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court this 9th day of Sept. 1820

Tho. Maxwell Clerk
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[The text below appears to have been written on the rear side of another document.]

Mrs. French
Page 12

Mrs French [written vertically to the far right]

John French Senr was Born in the Town of Groton County of New London and State of Connecticutt on Monday the [illegible]th Day of Septr. 1755

Nancy Cronkhite was Born near Peekskill in the County of Westchester in the State of New York on the 3d Day of June 1768

Was Maried on the 10th day of Sepr. 1783 

Had a Daughter Born on the 15th and Died on the 17th of March 1786

John French Junr. was Born in Kortright in the County of Delaware on the 22d Day of July 1788 - - .

James French was Born in the Town of Kortright in the County of Delaware and State of New York on the 11th Day of Septr 1791

Jesse French was Born in the Town of Kortright in the County of Delaware and State of New York on the 17th of June 1793

State of New York
Chemung County ss    James Van Etten of Cayuta in the said County being Duly Sworn says that his age is forty one
Page 13

William French was Born in the Town of Kortright in the County of Delaware and State of New York on the 3d Day of June 1795

Bartlett French was Born in the Town of Stratford in the County of Grafton and State of New Hampshire on the 25th Day of February 1797

Nancy French was Born in the Town of Minehead in the County of Essex in the State of Vermont on the 26 Day of December 1801

Fanny French was Born in the Town of Minehead in the County of Essex in the State of Vermont on the 25th Day of April 1803 

Sally French was Born in the Town of Owego in the County of Tioga and State of New York on the 18th Day of July 1805

Henry R French was Born in the Town of Spencer in the County of Tioga and State of New York on the 1st Day of July 1807
Page 14

Kortright in the County of Delaware and State of New York on the 11th Day of Septr 1791
Jesse French was Born in the Town of Kortright in the County of Delaware and State of New York on the 17th of June 1793

State of New York
Chemung County ss

James Van Etten of Cayuta in the said County being Duly Sworn says that his age is forty one years and upwards: that he was well acquainted with John French in his life time who was a revolutionary pensioner of the United States: that he has for many years past been acquainted in the family of the said John French: that the annexed document is the Family record of the said John French; is in his handwriting and has always since his acquaintance with the Family been acknowledged both by him & the family as the Family record.
James Van Etten

Sworn & Subscribed by the said James Van Etten (who is in my opinion a credible witness) before me on the 15th day of Feby 1839.
Charles Patchin J P

State of New York
Chemung County ss 

I Isaac Baldwin Clerk of the County of Chemung do certify that Charles Patchin Esq. before whom the foregoing affidavit was made was when the same bears Date a Justice of the Peace of said county duly commissioned & sworn & that his signature above subscribed is genuine.  Witness my hand & seal of office the 16 Feb 1839.
I Baldwin Clerk

[seal stamped]
Page 15

[left half of document]

Nancy French,  2525

[right half of document]

1994
Nancy French
application
7 July, 1838.

Admitted
Sergeant, 2 years
$120

T. Maxwell Esqr
Present
Page 16

At a Court of Common pleas held at Elmira in & for the County of Chemung in the State of New York on the Second Tuesday of October 1838
Present
Hon. Joseph L Darling First Judge, 
  "   Guy Hulett           )
  "    Simeon L Rood   )  Judges

State of New York
Chemung County ss  
On the 10th Day of October 1838 personally appeared before the Judges aforesaid Nancy French a resident of Cayuta in the said county aged Seventy years and upwards who being first duly sworn according to law Doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed July 7. 1838 entitled "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows": that she is the widow of John French who was a Sergeant in the Massachusetts line in the army of the Revolution & for his Service placed on the Pension Roll of the New York agency under the act of 1818, on the 30th June 1818 at the rate of ninety six Dollars per year.  For proof of his services she refers to the rolls of the War Department and the papers on file in the Pension Office accompanying his declaration for a pension -  She further declares that she was married to the said John French at Peekskill in the county of Westchester New York on the tenth Day of September Seventeen hundred eighty three by the Revd. Mr Sacket of the Baptist Church in that county and that her husband the said John French died on the twenty second day of April one thousand eight hundred and thirty one - That she was not married to the said John French prior to his leaving service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seventeen hundred and ninety four; towit, at the time above stated.

She further states that she has not now an never had any record evidence of her said marriage, other than what is contained in the family record of her said husband, a copy of which
Page 17

so far as it has reference to the birth of her husband thereof and their marriage is herto annexed & the original record now produced before the Court in the words following towit:

"John French Senr. was born in the Town of Groton, county of New London and State of Connecticut on Monday the 8th day of Septr. 1755.
"Nancy Cronkite was born near Peekskill in the county of Westchester in the state of New York on the 3d day of June 1768"
"Was married on the 10th day of Sept. 1783"

She further states that she is the identical person named in the foregoing record as Nancy Cronkite, who was so married as aforesaid to the said John French on the 10th day of September seventeen hundred eighty three, that she still remains the widow of the said John French having never married since his death.

Nancy French  her # mark

Sworn & Subscribed the 10th October 1838 
In open Court  J S Darling First Judge of Chemung County

State of New York Chemung County ss }  James Van Etten of Cayuta in the said county being Duly Sworn deposeth & saith that he was well acquainted with John French the revolutionary soldier & pensioner mentioned in the foregoing declaration of Nancy French his widow.  That the book containing the Family record of the said John French now produced before the Court is in the handwriting of the said John French, with which the deponent was familiar - That he has been acquainted with the said Nancy French for more than twenty years That until the Death of the said John French they lived together as man & wife and he knew the
Page 18

said John French to have been a revolutionary pensioner and that the said Nancy French still remains a widow having never married since the Death of the said John French.  James Van Etten.

Sworn before me the 10th October 1838.
J L Darling first judge
of Chemung County

And the said court do hereby certify that they have examined the extract given in the foregoing declaration with the original family record of the said French, identified as such to the satisfaction of the court, and that the same is a correct copy of the original record so far as the same has reference to the birth & marriage of the said John French & Nancy his wife; and that it satisfactorily appears to the said court that the said Nancy still remains the widow of the said John French.  The said court also certify that in their opinion the said James Van Etten above named is a credible & Disinterested witness - 
J L Darling first judge of Chemung County

State of New York
Chemung County
Clerk's Office ss

I Isaac Baldwin Clerk of the court above mentioned do certify that the foregoing contain the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Nancy French for a pension.  Witness my hand & Official Seal the 10th day of October 1838 - 
Isaac Baldwin Clk
per D Herron D. Clerk
[seal stamped]
Page 19

[text cut off by edge of page]pt. French wishes to obtain [text cut off by edge of page] and in discharge as [text cut off by edge of page] family are [illegible] it

Discharge Copy
John French
[illegible initials]

FRENCH, JOHN
(MASS., N. H.)  W-23068

By His Excellency Geog
Page 20

By His Excellency
George Washington Esqr
General and Commander in Chief of the Forced of the United States of America

These are to Certify that the Bearer hereof John French Serjeant in the 3d Massachusetts Regiment Having Faithfully Served the United Stated Seven years and eleven months and Being  inlisted for the war only is hereby Discharge From the American Army.  Given at Head Quarters the 8th Day of June 1783  Geo Washington -

By His Excellencys Command
J Trumbull Jr Secretary

Registered in the Books of the Regiment
H Savage Adjutant

the above John French has Been Honored with the Badge of Merit for five years Faithful Service
James Mitting Lt. Colo Commrd
Page 21

Rev
WIDOW, &c.
                      [illegible, possibly "am" initials]

File No. 23,068
Nancy French
Wid of
John French
Sergt Mass line

Act: Mar 3rd 1843
Index: - Vol. A, Page 255

(Arrangement of 1870.)
Page 22

[left half of document]

Additional Evidence

Nancy French, decd.
Wid. John - N. Y.

Claim for Increase

E. F. Brown
Atty.

[right half of document]

New York (A.) 1994

Nancy French, widow of John French
who was a pensioner under the Act of 18 Mar. 1819 - and who died on the 22d of April, 1831 - of Chemung Co in the State of New York who was a Sergeant in the company commanded by Captain John Parkinson of the Regt - commanded by Col Batle - : in ["the" crossed out] Masstts - line for 2 years Sergeant - 

Inscribed on the Roll of Albany at the rate of 120 Dollars ----- Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.

Certificate of Pension issued the 9th day of March, 1839 and sent to Thomas Maxwell, Esqr Elmira, N. Y.

Arrears to the 4th of March, 1839. $36[torn]
Semi=annual allowance ending 4 Feb "
[torn, with only "ed by S" and "Vol." remaining on fragment of paper]
Page 23

Certificate of Admr's.
Bond, $2500.-

Nancy French,
Wid. John.
N. Y. - Acts 1838 + 43.

Hon. L. P. Waldo,
Commissioner of Pensions,
Present.
Page 24

Washington City, 10. Jany. 1855.

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

Sir,

I have the honor to enclose herewith, a Surrogate's Certificate that Selden Gates, Admr. of Nancy French decd. has given Bond in the sum of $2,500. ", which please file with the other papers.

Very Respectfully
Your Obt. Sv.
Edm. F. Brown
Atty.
Page 25

Free
Hon James L. Edwards
Comr of Pensions
Washington
D.C.

ELMIRA N. Y.  OCT 11 [postal stamp]

2525     Oct 5.
N.Y.  
7 July 1838
Page 26

Elmira Oct 10. 1838
 J L Edwards Esqr

Sir

I enclose the declaration of Nancy French the widow of John French a revolutionary pensioner under the act of 1818 -

Yrs Respectfully
Th Maxwell
Page 27

[More than half the text at the top of the document has been cut off, but the word "revolutionary" can be made out.]

Claim for Increase.

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

[The text below has been written vertically at the left end of the document.]

B 
[illegible letter] W Cole

Nancy French
N. Y. [illegible] 1843
Page 28

Office of Discount & Deposit
New York 23rd Dec 1835,

Sir,

I enclose the claim of Nancy French ww of John French a Rev Pensioner Decd for your Examination and Order to Pay.  This name was placed on our [illegible] annual Report of June 1833, under the head of unclaimed pensions.

I am respectfully
Your Obedt Servant,
Isaac Lawrence Pvt
Acting as Agent for Pensions

James L Edwards Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 29

[The text below appears on the front of a mailing envelope.]

Claim for Increase.  Acts 1838 & 1843.
Additional Evidence.

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

[Two lines have been lightly written vertically over the above text.  The first line reads "B" and the second line, which is a single word, is illegible.]

[The text below has been written vertically at the left end of the envelope.]

Nancy French
N Y - [illegible] '43
Page 30

Nancy French - John
N Y [illegible] 1843

John French
N Y - [illegible] 1832

No other John French - in file or on roll -

FREE

NEWTON [illegible] MAR 5 [postal stamp]

S

Hon Lorin P Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D. C.
Page 31

[The text below appears on the front of a mailing envelope.]

Claim for Increase, Acts 1838 & 43.
Additional Evidence.

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

[The text below has been written vertically at the left end of the envelope.]

Nancy French
N Y - [illegible] 1843

[The text below has been written vertically and very lightly over the left half of the envelope.]

B
[illegible]
Page 32

[The text below appears on the front of a mailing envelope.]

ELMIRA N. Y. APR 21 [postal stamp]

FREE

Hon. James S. Edwards
Comr. of Pensions
Washington
D. C.

[The text below has been written vertically on the left end of the envelope.]

617
Apl. 25. 1843

N.Y.
Mar 3d 1843
Nancy French
Page 33

Certificate of Secretary of State, U. S.

John French,
Wagon Conductor,
18 months, 10 days.

Claim of Nancy French, Wid. of John.

N. Y. - Acts 1838 & 1843.

Claim for Increase.

Please make payable at New York City.

E. F. Brown, 
Atty.
Present.

15. Dec. 54.
Page 34

Dept of State,
Washington  Dec. 14, 1854

Sir

I have to inform you in reply to your note of the 12th isnt, that the revolutionary records on file in this Dept. furnish Evidence of the fact, that John French was a waggon conductor in the war of the revolution, from Oct. 8. 1778, to April 17 1780.

I am respectfully,
Your Obdt Servt,
W. L. Macey

L.. A Pugh
Washington
Page 35

Re-capitulation of Parol - Evidence - 

Nancy French, decd.
Wid. John.
N. Y. - Acts 1838 & 43.

E. F. Brown
Atty.

Washn. D.C.
Aug. 2. 55.
Page 36

Recapitulation of Parol Evidence -
Claim of Nancy French, Widow of John - N. Y.

28. Nov. '54.  Levi English, [name underlined] aged 70. - Often heard him speak of having served as Sergeant, Wagon Conductor,& Wagon Master, & had much to do with Wagon Service 2 or 3 years.  Knows [previous word underlined] his reputation [previous word underlined] of having been Wagon Conductor. [previous two words underlined]

same date.  James Harris, [name underlined] aged 69.- States same facts as above, and adds - he had a great deal of trouble at different times and places to procure feed & forage.  Knows [previous word underlined] his reputation [previous word underlined] as Conductor. [previous word underlined]

1. Dec. '54.  James Van Etten, [name underlined] aged 57.  Lived within a few rods of him.  Knew him well & often heard him speak of his services as a Wagn. Condr. & his trouble in obtaining Forage for the Teams under his command.  Was universally called Captain, [previous two words underlined] which Title was complimentary as Commander of Teams.

3. Apl. '55.  Hon. Thos. Maxwell, [previous three words underlined] formerly Member of Congress.  Spent many years with French, and gives Traditionary History of his having been a Wagon Conductor.

"  "  "  Levi English, [named underlined] and James Van Etten, [named underlined] - Re-iterate their firm belief that he was a Wagon Conductor and was called Captain on account of it.

"  "  " James Van Gorder, [name underlined], aged 68. - Was frequently told by French that he was a Wagon Conductor, was intimate with Genl. Washington, & was called Captain because he commanded Teams.

2. July '55.  Leonard Jones, [named underlined] aged 56 - Son of John Jones & Sarah his Widow, Pensioners - Tioga Co. N. Y. - His Father served from 1776 to 1783 in the Militia of West Chester Co. N. Y. and said he saw French going through that County more than once as Wagon Conductor.  Often heard French & his Father speak of their services.

Note. [previous word underlined]  This is the County where French married soon after the Revolution, and lived sometime.  (See his Family Record in his Pension Papers.)     E.F.B. [initials underlined]

2. July '55. - Samuel G. Bliven, [name underlined] Tioga Co. N. Y. - Had frequent talks with French, and heard him say he had control

[drawing of a pointing hand] Over.
Page 37

of and conducted a number of Teams with Wagons in the Revolutionary War.

27. July '55.  Joseph West, [name underlined] aged 60. - Was often told by French that he was a Wagon Conductor, and so obtained his Title of Captain.

30. July 55.  John Forsyth [name underlined] - Makes statements to the same effect and adds that French told him that he was a Sergeant at the same time he was Wagon Conductor. -

The foregoing Nine Witnesses [previous two words underlined] are all duly certified to be respectable and credible persons, - and it is respectfully submitted whether they could all be mistaken.

Edw. F. Brown
Atty.

Washington City
2. Aug. '55.
Page 38

Extracts from Rolls
(in Pension Office)
showing that John French was "On command" many months.

Claim of
Nancy French, decd.
Wid. John - 

N. Y. Acts 1838 & '43.

E. F. Brown,
Atty.

Washn. D. C. Aug. 2/55. }
Page 39

Extracts from Rolls of Capt. Abm. Watson's Company, of Col. John Greaton's 3rd. Massachusetts Regiment.
(See the Rolls in the Pension Office.)

John French, [name underlined] Corporal. - Appointed Nov. 1776.

Roll dated Jany. 2. 1778. Corporal. "On command at Stillwater."
 "       "       Feby.      "         "                    Same.
 "        "      April       "          "                    Same.
 " from Apr. 16 to May 13. "  "                 No Remark
 "   dated June 18.    "           "                     do.
  "     "          July       "           "                     do.
  "     "         August  "             "             "On duty."
[previous four lines bracketed at the right with "Probably same as above." written in the right margin]
   "       "    September  "      "   "On command with Genl. Scott."
   "   for  September     "   "     "On command at the Lines."
    "    "    October       "     "      "On command in the Infantry."
    "     "    November    "     "        No Remark.
    "      "  December    "      "           do.
     "     "   January 1779.   "            "On duty."
[previous three lines bracketed at the right with "Probably same." written in the right margin and an arrow pointing above]
     "      "   February  "  "         "On command White Plains.
     "       "  April        "    "        No Remark.
    "        "   May        "   "             do.
    "         " June         "   "         "On duty."
    "         "  July        "     "            do.
    "      "    August    "    "             do.
[previous five lines bracketed at the right with "Probably same as above." written in the right margin]
    "     "   September  "  "      "On command at Lines."
     "     "   October   "    "        No Remark. - 
    "      "   November  "   "      "Sick - present." -
    " from Jany. 1 to July 1780. "  "Promoted to Sergeant 24. March 1780."
    " for July    "   Sergeant.  "Transferred to Infantry, 1. July 1780."

Query.  As he was "on command" [previous two words underlined] so much, is it not fair to presume he commanded Teams?  Especially as it is not pretended that any other John French [previous three words underlined] did?

E. F. Brown,
Atty.

Aug. 2. 55.
Page 40

Acts 1838 & 1843.
Claim for Increase.
Nancy French dedc.
of N. Y. - Wid. John. - 

Additional Evidence.

Please let Mr. Dodge see these papers
E. F. B.

E. F. Brown
Atty.

Washn. D. C.  Aug. 2. 55. }
Page 41

EDMUND F. BROWN
NOTARY PUBLIC, CONVEYANCER,
AND 
AGENT FOR PENSIONS, BOUNTY LANDS, &C.,
OFFICE No. [number crossed out and "431 E Street - East of" written above] SEVENTH STREET,
S. E. of [text crossed out and "Genl. P. O." written to the right]
WASHINGTON CITY,
JUNE 1, 1855.                 ESTABLISHED IN 1843.
Deeds, Leases, Wills, Agreements, and other writings drawn.

Notaries Public are authorized by Acts of Congress to take and certify Oaths, Affirmations, and Acknowledgments, in the same manner as Justices of the Peace and U. S. Circuit Court Commissioners.
(See Acts September 16, 1850, and July 22, 1854.)

Washington City,
August 2. 1855.

Hon.      Minot,
Commr. of Pensions.

Sir:

I have the honor to enclose herewith, additional evidence in the claim of Nancy French, decd., [previous three words underlined] Widow of John, of N. Y. for Increase [previous word underlined] of Pension under Acts of 1838 and 1843; - viz: -
Affidavits of Leonard Jones, - Saml. G. Bliven, Joseph West, and John Forsyth,
and Extracts from the Rolls not discovered until since this case was last examined.  Also, a separate sheet, containing a Re-capitulation of all the Parol evidence in the case.

Your Predecessor, in his letter to me of 13. April last, says, the statements of Hon. Thos. Maxwell are not evidence.  Altho' they alone [previous word underlined] are not, I think that he, and other Judges would admit that in connection [previous word underlined] with the four affidavits now sent, [previous four words underlined] and the four previously [previous word underlined] filed, Mr. Maxwell's statements relative to Traditionary History might now [previous word underlined] be considered as confirmed, [previous word underlined] and therefore be received as evidence.
Page 42

Judge Waldo and Mr. Dodge having previously examined this case, I think that either of them would be convinced with the papers now sent.

As the Certificate on file shows that a [previous word underlined] John French was a Wagon Conductor 18 months, 10 days, and the Extracts from the Rolls (herewith enclosed) show that this [previous word underlined] John French was "on command" [previous two words underlined] many months between Jany. 1778, and July 1780, the Parol evidence [previous two words underlined] of the Nine Witnesses [previous two words underlined] is respectfully submitted, with the suggestion that the absence of Revolutionary papers in his family may be accounted for from the fact shown in the Widow's papers that he married in West Chester Co. N. Y., moved into Vermont, then to Tioga Co. N. Y.; and was a Farmer, a Tailor, a Laborer etc. as well as an active Free Mason; and as he boasted most of his Military [previous word underlined] exploits, he would not likely have preserved Wagon papers if he had any.

Very Respectfully,
Yr. Obt. St.
Edm. F. Brown
Atty.
Page 43

617           617

Nancy French, Declaration

Pensioner under act of July 1838
to be continued under act of 3 March 1843

Admit Sergt $120
Albany Agency
Send to
Maxwell & Tyler
agents Elmira NY
Page 44

State of New York
Chemung County ss

On this 19th day of April 1843 personally appeared before me the subscriber a Justice of the peace in & for said county Nancy French a resident of the Town of Catharine in said county aged Seventy four years and upwards, who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 3d March 1843,granting Pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War.

That she is the widow of John French who was a Sergeant in the Revolutionary army under various enlistments, and enlisted in Nov. 1776 to serve during the war in the 3d Massachusetts Regiment under Col. John Greaton in a company commanded by Capt. Abrm. Watson, & was discharged 8th. June 1783 near Newburgh & was placed on the Pension Roll under the Act of 1818 on the 30 June 1818 Certificate No. 1459.

That she was placed on the Pension Roll under act of 7 July 1838 on the New York agency payable at Albany on the 9th March 1839 at one hundred twenty Dollars pr. annum for five years commencing 4th March 1836 by certificate No 1994 & was paid to March 4. 1841.

She further states that she is still a widow - 

Nancy French  her mark X

Sworn to & Subscribed the Day & year above written by the said declarant who is personally known to me, before me & makes her mark from want of education
W. T. Jackson  J P

State of New York
Chemung County
Clerk's Office    ss.

I Simeon L Rood Clk of said County do hereby certify that William T. Jackson Esqr before whom the foregoing affidavit was made was when the same bears date a Justice of the peace of said County duly qualified & that his signature above subscribed is genuine -

Witness my hand & seal of office the 20th day of April 1843
S. L. Rood  Clerk
Page 45

STATE OF New York,  COUNTY OF Chemung } ss:

Be it known, that on this [illegible] day of [illegible], A.D. eighteen hundred and fifty four, before the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared Mrs. Nancy Gates, a resident of Van Ettenville, in said County, and made oath according to law, that she is the Daughter of Mrs. Nancy French, Widow of John French, who was a Pensioner under the Acts of 1838 and 1843, and died in 1844; that her Father the said John French was a Pensioner under Act of 1818 as a Sergeant, and she believes he was a Wagon Conductor; that she is directly interested, as aforesaid, as a claimant, and makes this affidavit for the purpose of obtaining such Increase of Pension as may be due under any of the Laws, Regulations, or decisions that have been or may hereafter be adopted.  The said Affiant further declares that she hereby constitutes and appoints Edmund F. Brown, of Washington City, to be Attorney and Agent to prosecute said claim, with power of substitution, to examine all papers and documents in relation to it, and to do all things necessary and lawful in the premises; except drawing the money, which will be hereafter provided for.
Nancy Gates

Sworn to and subscribed, the day and  )
year aforesaid, before me,                     }
[illegible]    J. Peace.                               )

I, [illegible] Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that Mrs. Nancy Gates, above named, is a respectable resident of this County, and is, as I believe, directly interested in said claim as therein set forth, and acknowledges the above Power of Attorney to be her act and deed.
[illegible]  J. Peace.

In testimony that the above-named James Van Etten was a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, at the date of the same, I hereby subscribe my name and affix the County Deal. this 20th day of Oct. 1854.
A F Babcock
County Clerk.
Chemung County
Page 46

Washington City, 9th Novr. 1854.

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

Sir,

I have the honor to enclose herewith a Power of Attorney to prosecute the claim of Nancy French, [name underlined] deceased, Widow of John, [preceding three words underlined] of N. Y. for Increase of Pension, [preceding three words underlined], under Acts of 7. July 1838 and 3d. March 1843.  She was pensioned under those Acts for her Husband's services as Sergeant, & she died in Feb. 1844.  Her husband was pensioned under Act of 1818, and died in 1831.  The children say he was a Wagon Conductor, [previous two words underlined] and claim an Increase [previous word underlined] accordingly.

By the accompanying papers you will perceive that my applications for proof to the State Departments in this City and Boston, have been unsuccessful, but it is hoped the Rolls in your Office will give some light on the subject.

Be pleased to have a careful search made, and inform me the result, as Captn. French served faithfully during the whole War.

Very Respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt.
Edm. F. Brown
Atty.
Page 47

Certificate of Death, Heirship, and Administration.

Nancy French,
Wid. of John,
Chemung Co. N.Y.

Claim for Increase

Acts 1838 & 1843.

E. F. Brown
Atty.
4. Dec. 54. Present
Page 48

At a Surrogate Court held before A. S. Thurston Surrogate of Chemung County New York on the first Day of December. 1854
Personally appeared in open Court before the Surrogate aforesaid, Seldon Gates and James Van  Etten both residents of the Town of Van Etten in said County of Chemung, the said Seldon Gates being of the age of 54 years and the said James Van Etten aged 57 years who being duly sworn depose & say each for himself deposes & says that they were well acquainted with Capt John French who was a revolutionary pensioner of the United States and reputed to have served as a Sergeant Wagon Conductor & Wagon Master in the War of the Revolution: that the said John French died in the month of March or April 1831. that his widow Nancy French survived him & was also a pensioner and died on the 16th February 1844 - and she left surviving her, the following children theirs all of whom are of lawful age towit:
John French whose place of residence is unknown
William French    do      do
James French who resides in Yates Co N. Y.
Bartlett French who resides in Oneida Co N. Y.
Henry French who resides in Chemung Co NY
Nancy the wife of Seldon Gates of Van Etten NY
Fanny French ["the" crossed out] of Elmira Chemung Co NY.
who are the only surviving heirs of the said Nancy French deceased - And the
Page 49

said deponents further say that the said Seldon Gates was appointed administrator of the Estate of said Nancy French dec'd on or about the 15th of March 1844
Seldon Gates  X his mark

From before me In open Court the 1st December 1854 the said affiants being in my opinion credible & disinterested witnesses    ["James Van Etten" written in the right margin]
Ariel S. Thurston
Surrogate

[seal stamped]  In witness whereof I have hereto affixed the Seal of the said Surrogate Court Dec 1 1854
Ariel S. Thurston
[illegible]ing Surrogate
Page 50

State of New York
Chemung County ss.  I Ariel S. Thurston Surrogate of the County of Chemung in said State do hereby certify that on the 15th March 1844 Seldon Gates then of the Town of Cayuta (now Van Etten) in said county was duly appointed administrator of the Goods chattels & credits of Nancy French then lately deceased & that he still remains such administrator - .

In Witness whereof I have hereto set my hand & official Seal on the 1st December 1854
Ariel S. Thurston
[seal stamped]
Page 51

John French
P O Act 1818 N. Y.
New at act 1838
New York

John French [illegible]96
Tioga Co. W[illegible] 120
J [illegible] on [illegible]
[multiple lines crossed out]

Ex[illegible]y Mr Wade
Jan 15 - 50

WASHINGTON CITY D C A[illegible] 4

Willis G. Wade
[several lines crossed out]
Rose
New York

Van Etten Ville
abroad Quebec
Page 52

Cayuta Vanetttenville  Apl 20 1851

Mr. Wade  Dear Sir

I have seen in the Genesee farmer something concerning the new pention law my father John J. French served through the revolutionary war and drawed ninety six dollars each year he was a soldier if there is any prospect of any more coming to me I would like to know it and if there is not I would like to know it his widow drawed one hundred twenty dollars for a number of years the number I do not know  I can find out the particulars if nesesary

Most Respectfully
Mrs Nancy Gates
Page 53

From
Hon. W. L. Marcy
Secy. of State
28. Oct 1854.

Search was made in Feb. 1853 for name of John French, without success. -
Page 54

Dept. of State,
Washington, Oct. 28. 1854.

Sir:

In reply to your note of this date I have to inform you, that the revolutionary records on file in this Dept. have already been examined for evidence of the service of John French, and that none could be found.

The Heirs were informed of the result of that Examination, by letter to the Hon James Gamble, under date Feb. 12. 1853.

Another Examination would be equally unavailing.

I am, respectfullly,
Your obdt. Servt,
W. L. Marcy

E. F. Brown, Esqr.
Washington.
Page 55

(Copy.)    Washington City  28. Oct. 1854.

Hon. W. L. Marcy
Secretary of State.

Sir,

I have the honor to ask an examination of ["your" crossed out and "the" written above] Revolutionary Rolls in your Department for proof of the services of John French as a Wagon Conductor.  He was a Sergeant in Col. Greason's 3d Massachusetts Regiment, was Discharged 8. June 1783, with a Badge of Merit for six years faithful services, and his heirs [text crossed out] claim an Increase of Pension for his services as a Wagon Conductor. [text crossed out]  I have exhibited at your Department a Power of Attorney in my favor.

Please inform me the dates and length of such Wagon Service as may appear on your Rolls.

I have the honor to be,
Very Respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt.
Edm. F. Brown
Atty.
Box 278.
Page 56

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
[seal stamped]

Secretary's Office, Boston,
Nov. 1st 1854

I Hereby Certify, That from an examination of the Books and Documents relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that the name of John French is borne on Continental Army Books in Capt Watson's Comp. Col. Graton's Regt. from July. 1. 1777 to Dec 31. 1780.  36 Mos. as Corporal 12 mos. as Sergeant, from Bolton.  Also on List of Final Settlement. 3rd Regt. Lt. Col. James Mellen's Regiment.
No. 60.711.   Nov. 4. 1783.   $69.8
No. 61.022    Jany 1 1783     " 30.6
No. 61.443.   Nov. 4. 1785.    " 80.0.
No. 61.759.   Jany. 1. 1782    " 113.30.
No. 62.212    Jany. 1 1783.    " 120.00.

In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.

E M Wright
Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Page 57

Washington City, 30. Oct. 1854.

To the Honorable,
The Secretary of the Commonwealth,
Boston, Mass.

Sir:

Having been authorized by the Heirs of Nancy French,  Widow of John, [name underlined] to prosecute their claim for Increase of Pension for the services of their Father, John French as a Wagon Conductor, I have the honor to ask an examination of your Rolls upon which it is supposed the said services as Wagon Conductor may appear, as the heirs feel confident he served in that capacity.  He enlisted in Nov. 1776 in Capt. Abrm. Watson's Company, of Col. John Greaton's 3d Mass. Regt. was Discharged 8. June 1783, and was honored with a Badge of Merit for 6 years faithful service.  He and his Widow were pensioned for his services as Sergeant.  He died in 1831, and his Widow died in 1844.

Be pleased to furnish a Certificate of what may appear on your Rolls as Wagon Conductor, and my Son, Mr. Obadiah B. Brown, who resides in your City, will call and pay the fees.

Very Respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt.
Edw. F. Brown
Atty,
Page 58

Nancy French
Wid. John

Claim for Increase

Affidavits of
Levi English
James Harris
James Van Etten
of his reputation as a
Wagon Conductor & W. Master.

E. F. Brown
Atty
Present

4. Dec. 54.
Page 59

State of New York
County of Chemung   ss

On this 28th day of Nov. A. D. 1854 before the subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid personally appeared Levi English a resident of the Town of Van Etten in said County aged seventy years being duly sworn according to law Deposeth and saith that he was well acquainted with the late Captain John French of this County who was a revolutionary pensioner and died in the year 1831 and with his Widow Mrs Nancy French who was a Pensioner and died on the 16th day of Feb 1844.  That he has often heard the said Capt John French speak of his serving in the Revolutionary war as a Sergeant and as a Waggon Conductor and Waggon Master that he spoke of being at Saratoga at Philadelphia and at other places during said war and of his having served in Different capacities & stations more than seven years up to the close of the war.  That he verily believes that the said French had much to do with the Waggon services for two or three years if not more, and that he was a Waggon Master as he was often called Captain.  That as he has been dead over twenty years the department cannot state particular dates, but knows the reputation of having served as Waggon Master with the army as above stated.  That he is acquainted with his Daughter Mrs Nancy Gates who is applying for an increase of her Mothers pension & has confidence in her statements.  He further swears that he has no interest in said claim and is not concerned in the promotion of it

Levi English
Page 60

Sworn and submitted before me the day and year aforesaid, and I certify the said Levi English is a reputable resident of this County entitled to credit and further certify that I am not interested in the prosecution of the said claim -
James Van Etten
Justice of the Peace
Page 61

State of New York  County of Chemung  ) ss

On this 28 day of November A. D. 1854 before the Subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, personally appeared James Harris a resident of Van Etten in said county Age Sixty Nine years who being duly Sworn according to law deposeth and Saith that he was well acquainted with the late Captain John French of  this County who was a Revolutionary Pensioner and died in Eighteen hundred and thirty one and with his widow Mrs [previous word underlined] Nancy French who was a Pensioner and died on 16th [previous word underlined] of February 1844 [previous word underlined].  That he has often heard the Said Captain John French Speak of his Serving in the Revolution war as a Sergeant and as a wagon conductor and - Wagon Master, That he spoke of being at Saratoga at Philadelphia at Yorktown and at other places during Said war and of his  having Served in different capacities and Station more than Seven years up to the close of the war  That he truly believes that the Said French had much to do with Wagon Services for two or three years if not more as he Said he had a great deal of truble at times and places to procure feed & forage for his teams and that he was a Wagon Master as he was often called Captain  That as he has been dead over twenty years the department Cannot State particular dates but knows the Expectation of having Served as a Wagon Master with the Army as above Stated  That he is acquainted with his Daughter Mrs Nancy Gates who is
Page 62

applying for an Increase of her mothers Pension and has confidence in her Statements   He further Swears that he has no interest in Said claims and and is not concerned in the prosecution of it
James Harris

Sworn to and Subscribed before me the day and year aforesaid and I certify that the Said James Harris is a respectable Resident of this County entitled to credit and

I further certify that I am not interested in the prosecution of the said claim
James Van Etten [illegible]
Pens
Page 63

State of Newyork
Chemung County ss

James Van Etten of the town of Van Etten in said county aged 57 years being duly sworn deposes & says that he was well acquainted with Capt John French then a resident of Cayuta (now Van Etten) in said county, that the residence of the said French for a period of one year or more previous to his death was within a few rods of the deponent  That the said Capt. French was a revolutionary pensioner: that he has frequently heard the said French speak of his revolutionary services at Quebec under Montgomery, at Yorktown & at Saratoga & other places during the revolution and also frequently heard him speak of his acting as Wagon Conductor & Wagon Master at various periods during said war & that he had much trouble in procuring forage & feed for the teams under his direction.  That he was universally called Capt French & he was always understood that he acquired that title from having been a Wagon Master in the Revolution - 
James Van Etten

Sworn before me the 1st Decr. 1854 the said James Van Etten being in my opinion a credible & disinterested witness

Tho Maxwell Justice of the peace of said County
Page 64

[seal attached ]

State of New York
Chemung County
Clerk's Office  Ss

I, A. F. Babcock Clerk of said County do certify that James Van Etten Esq before whom the annexed affidavits of James Harris & Levi English were made & that Th. Maxwell Esq before whom the annexed affidavit of James Van Etten was made were on the Days when the same severally bear oath, Justices of the peace of said County duly qualified & that their signatures subscribed to said affidavits are genuine.  Witness my hand & Seal of office
Decemr 1. 1854
A. F. Babcock Clerk
Chemung Co
Page 65

Washington City, 4. Decr. 1854.

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

Sir:

I have the honor to enclose herewith, additional evidence to establish the claim for Increase of the Pension of Nancy French, decd. [previous three words underlined] of N. Y., Widow of John, under Acts of 1838 & 1843, which I have before presented to you.

The Affidavits herewith sent establishing the reputation [previous word underlined] of John French as a Wagon Conductor and Wagon Master, are respectfully submitted to your consideration, with the request that if, on another search of your Rolls his name should not be found in those capacities, you will please inform me where other Rolls can be procured, as it is understood that in many instances Sergeants were made Wagon Masters and the Rolls of such service were often kept in the private families of the Pay Masters.

Proof of Death, Heirship, and Administration are also enclosed, which I trust will prove satisfactory.

I have the honor to be,
Very Respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt.
Edm. F. Brown
Atty.
Page 66

Hartford, Dec. 11th 1854.

E. F. Brown, Esqr.

Dear Sir

Yours of the 7th inst addressed to Chas. Hosmer, Esq. Secy. of the Cont. Histl. Society, was put into my hands to make the examination you desired, which has been done, and the result is, that his name (John French) does not appear on the Books of Col. Wadsworth, nor on the Books of Nehemiah Hubbard, who succeeded Col. W. in the Qr. Master's Department, so far as an imperfect list [previous word underlined] of Conductors and Teamsters, I have a copy of, will show.

Yours Very Respectfully,
E. Gleason
Page 67

28. Dec. 1854.

Additional Certificate of
Sec. of State U. S.

John French, absent.
Sergeant, were Wagn. Conductor.

Claim of Nancy French,
Wid. John.
N. Y. Acts 1838 & 1843.
for Increase.

E. F. Brown
Atty.
Present.
Page 68

Dept of State,
Washington.  Decr. 28. 1854.

Sir:

In reply to your note of the 25 inst. I have to inform you, that the name of John French is found on a roll of Captain Abnr Watsons Company in the Regt commanded by Col Greaton, dated Sept. 9. 1778, with the following remark opposite his name "on command with Genl. Scott"

I have also to inform you, that it appears from the records, to have been a common practice in the army of the revolution, to employ Sergeants in the Line, as wagon conductors.  On a return signed by Jas. Thompson, Wagon W. Genl., dated Feb. 1. 1778, are found the names of fifteen Sergeants employed in the Wagon Department

I am respectfully
Your Obdt. Servant
W. L. Marcy

E. F. Brown
Washington
Page 69

(Copy,)   Washington City, Dec. 25. 1854.

Hon. W. L. Marcy,
Secretary of State.

Sir:

In October last, I applied at your Department, with a Power of Attorney, for proof from your Revolutionary Rolls of the Service of John French as Wagon Conductor, which could not be found.

Upon a subsequent application, made thro' my friend S. A. Peugh Esq. his name was found in that capacity from 8. Oct. 1778 to 17. April 1780, but the Pension Office expresses the opinion that he was not the man for whom I claim.

I have therefore to ask a search of the Rolls of Capt. Watson's Company, of Col. Greaton's 3d. Mass. Regt. to see whether any Notes or Memorandums on said Rolls will show that John French a Corporal and Sergeant in said Company, was absent on other duty at any time between 1778 and 1783.

I have reason to believe that he was also a Wagon Master, after 17. April 1780.

Be pleased to cause me to be furnished with a Certificate of all the facts which may be found upon your Rolls.

I have the honor to be, &c.
(signed)  Edm. F. Brown
Atty. for the Heirs.
Page 70

Washington City, 29. Decr. 1854.

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

Sir:

In the case of Nancy French decd., Widow of John, of N. Y., claiming Increase of Pension  under Acts of 1838 & 1843, I have the honor to enclose an additional Certificate, and also to refer you to papers upon your own files for a precedent, which, when taken together, will doubtless remove the objections to this claim.

This additional Certificate of the Secretary of State of the U. S. shows that our John French (of Watson's Co. Greaton's Regt.) was entered on his Company Roll as absent "on command with Genl. Scott", on 9. Sept. 1778, one month previous to the time we have proved his commencement as Wagon Conductor.  This Certificate also shows that it was a "common practice in the Army "to employ Sergeants in the Line as Wagon Conductors," and that fifteen such cases are found on a Roll in 1778.

The precedent in your Office to which I would refer you, is that of Eleazer Blake, of New Hampshire, a case very similar, except that Blake lived to assert his Staff service and state particulars, and French died in 1832, before Wagon service was pensionable.  Blake was discharged as a Sergeant, in the same manner, at the same place, and within four days of the same time, and received a Badge of Merit for 6 years faithful service in 4th. Mass. Regt.  Blake was pensioned under Acts of 1818 & 1828 as Sergeant, and said nothing about his service as Brigade Quarter Master until many years after John French was dead: yet it appears that his Attorney, J. M.
Page 71

Thayer Esq., in Sept. 1852 obtained for him an Increase as Quarter Master, and no doubt justly. - See his papers.

Your letter to me of 16th. inst. states that French was promoted [previous word underlined] to Sergeant on 24. April 1780, while the Certificate of the Secy. of Mass. shows he was a Sergeant all the year 1780, [previous four words underlined] a discrepancy certainly between the Rolls; and his Discharge shows (same as Blake's) that he still held his place in the Line as Sergeant in June 1783, while the same Certificate shows not half enough payments for his six years service.

As it is known that Corporals, and even Privates have been made Wagon Conductors, his promotion to Sergeant during his Team service was quite reasonable, as he had been 3 years Corporal, and having been in hard service at Quebec in 1775 and at Saratoga in 1777, would seem to point him out as a suitable person for promotion in the Line and service in the Staff. -

Ebenezer Blake was allowed under Act of 1832, for 8 months 20 days as Brigade Quarter Master, and " 15 " 10 " as Sergeant - his former payments at $120 to be deducted.

In this case, we have proven service by the Rolls, and identity by four respectable witnesses, and would respectfully claim for Nancy French decd. an allowance for  
18 months 10 days as Wagon Conductor, and
  5    "         20    "    as Sergeant - her former payments at $120. to be deducted.

I have the honor to be, Very Respy. Yr. Obt. St.
Edm. F. Brown,
Atty.
Page 72

Copy of letter from the
Pension Office
to 
E. F. Brown
14. Jany. 1855.
Page 73

(Copy.)

Pension Office,
January 24, 1855.

Sir,

I have, at your request, personally examined the application of Nancy French, Widow of John, of the State of New York, for an Increase of Pension under the Acts of July 7. 1838 and March 3. 1843.

I find that John French made a Declaration for a pension on the 20th of April 1818, under the Act of March 18. 1818, in which he has given a particular description of his Revolutionary Services.  In this narrative he says that on the 14th day of November 1776 he enlisted into a Company commanded by Capt. Abraham Watson in the third Massachusetts Regiment commanded by Col. John Greaton, for during the War.  In support of this Declaration he filed his original Discharge in which he is described as Sergeant in 3d Mass. Regt., and as having served faithfully seven years and eleven months, which discharge is dated June 8. 1783.  It is now claimed that he also served as a Wagon Conductor or Wagon Master in said War, from October 8. 1778 to April 17. 1780, and that the pension of his Widow should be increased for this service.

To sustain this claim, the following evidence has been filed.

1.  The affidavits of Levi English, James Harris, and James Van Etten, that Affiants had heard the husband of claimant say that he served in the Army of the Revolution as a Wagon Conductor and Wagon Master.

2.  The Certificate of the Secretary of State that the Revolutionary
Page 74

records on file in his Department furnish evidence of the fact that a [previous word underlined] John French was a Wagon Conductor in the War of the Revolution from October 8. 1778 to April 17. 1780.

3.  A further Certificate from the Secretary of State that the name of John French is found on the Roll of Captain Abraham Watson's Company in the Regiment commanded by Col. Greaton, dated Sept. 9. 1778, with the following remark opposite his name: "On command with Genl. Scott."  He further certifies that it was a common practice in the Army to employ Sergeants in the Line as Wagon Conductors.

I do not regard this evidence alone sufficient to establish the fact that the husband of claimant was the John French who was Wagon Conductor from Oct. 8. 1778. to April 17. 1780.  The evidence of identity is wanting.  The entry on the Roll of Sept. 9. 1778, simply shows that the John French who was in Watson's Company was with Genl. Scott - not that he was a Wagon Conductor.  Besides, if he was then a Wagon Conductor it is singular that the Certificate of the Secretary should not have shown a service before October 8. 1778.  But if this evidence be collated with the other evidence in the case, it will be conclusively seen that the John French who was in Capt. Watson's Company was never a Wagon Conductor.  In the first place he does not claim to have been a Wagon Conductor in his Declaration.  Second, [previous word underlined] the Rolls of his Company show that he was in service as a Sergeant regularly from the date of his enlistment to the 31st. of October 1780, [illegible]ing the very time it is claimed he was a Conductor of Teams.  Third [previous word underlined] - His original Discharge, dated June 8. 1783, shows that he was then a Sergeant and he was
Page 75

discharged as such officer.  It is probable that Sergeants were sometimes appointed Conductors of Teams, but Team Conductors received a Commission or Warrant usually, and as such Conductors were entitled to receive $480 a year.  The instances in which a Sergeant is promoted to this position, and again reduced to a Sergeant, with only $120 a year, must have been very few.  Besides, those who served in the Revolution were very tenacious of their rank.  If John French, the claimant's husband, was, or had been a Conductor of Teams, with the Title of Captain on the 8th of June 1783, he would have been very unwilling to have received a Discharge as a Sergeant, nor would he have been so described in his Discharge.

For these, and other reasons that might be given, I am of the opinion that the decision of this office rejecting the claim for Increase of the Pension of Mrs. Nancy French, is right, and the same is confirmed.

I am, &c.
(Signed)   L. P. Waldo, Commissioner.

E. F. Brown Esq.
Present.
Page 76

New Affidavit of
Levi English, and
additional Certificate of
Esquire Van Etten,
that John French 
was a Wagon Conductor.


E. F. Brown
Atty.
Present.
Page 77

State of New York  Chemung County } SS

On this 28 day of March 1855 before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace for the County aforesaid personally appeared Levi English a resident of the Town of Van Etten, aged Seventy years, who being duly Sworn according to law, does on his oath make the following Statement, viz:  I gave an affidavit in November last Stating my knowledge of the late Captain John French, and am informed that the Pension Office is not satisfied that the said John French Served as a Wagon Conductor in the Revolutionary War.  I make this affidavit for the purpose of giving my reasons why I feel confident he did act in that capacity.  Having been born since the close of Said war, I cannot of course Say what did occur, but as Said John French was for many years previous to his death on the most intimate terms with my Father, I have often heard him tell over the Revolutionary Scenes, through which he passed, of his being much with Wagons as a Commander, and of having trouble often to procure feed and forage, and of his being much with General Washington, and knowing him to have been man whose natural disposition was lively and Good humord So as to make him a universal favorite with his acquaintances in any position in life and yet possessed of a Spirit that in times of danger made him as undaunted as General Putnam or General Jackson.  I Believe he performed much important Service and altho'h he did not profess to have have had much to do with Wagons Teams [previous two words underlined.  A line is drawn from these words to the following statement at the bottom of the page: "Evidence that he was not a mere Driver, but Commander.  E.F.B."  The words are underlined from "not" to the end of the phrase. ] and Forages he never would have talked so much about them.  He never pretended he had a Captains Commission, but that he was called Captain thro' compliment because he had commanded Team Drivers and done much hazardous Service.  He was a man of truth and I fully believe he was much in the Confidence and esteem of General Washington and other high Officers and was in their Staff Service, as
Page 78

Much as I believe that General Washington Captured Lord Cornwallis.  I further Swear that I have no interest in the claim for which this is to be used and make this Statement because I believe justice will not be done until the Government Gives him Credit for service as a Wagon Conductor  Sworn to and Subscribed Before me James Vanetten J Peace
Levi Snyder

I James Vanetten Justice of the peace do hereby certify that the above named Levi English is a respectable and creditable resident of this county.  And I further certify that I have carefully read the above statement made by him and feel satisfied the facts stated by him are true and that as he, the said Capt John French was long a very intimate friend of my Father, I know him well and have heard him repeat to my Father and the Father of the said Levi English as well as to Thomas Maxwell Esqr. and others, many times, his services, and he has often told me that he had charge of the teams and Forage and was a favorite with Gen. Washington and other officers

I gave my affidavit on this subject about the first of December last and am surprised to hear the Pension office has any doubt that said French was a wagon conductor

James Van Etten
Justice of the Peace
Chemung Co NY
Page 79

State of New York
Chemung Co. Clrks Office ss.  I, Albert F. Babcock Clk in & for said County do hereby certify that James Van Etten Esq before whom the written affidavit was taken, was at the date thereof a Justice of the Peace in & for said, duly authorized to take the same.  And further that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of such Justice and verily believe the signature to the said affidavit is genuine.

In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name & affixed my official seal at Elmira this 30th day of March A.D. 1855.
Uriah S. Lowe Dp. Clerk
Chemung Co.
Page 80

Affidavit of
Hon. Thomas Maxwell, 
formerly Member of Congress,
certified by the County Judge 
& Surrogate of Chemung Co. N. Y.

Establishing the traditionary evidence that John French was a Wagon Conductor. 

States many important facts in his history

See within. 

E. F. Brown,
Atty.
Present
Page 81

Elmira Chemung Co NY
March 29 1855

Having been requested to state my knowledge of the late Capt. John French, of Cayuta in this County, I would say, that I became intimately acquainted with him about the year 1815.  In that year, I became a Free Mason.  Capt. French was a member of the order and having recieved the degrees in a travelling lodge which accompanied the Army in the war of the Revolution, as he alleged, and enthusiastically attached to the principles of the Institution, he was generally in attendance at its meetings.  He was for many years Crier of the Court and Deputy Sheriff of the County of Tioga (now Chemung): I was Clerk of the County for some ten years, which threw me much in his company; previous to my election as Clerk I had been Under Sheriff of the County three or four years while Capt. French was a deputy under the same Sheriff.  My first acquaintance with him took place at Elmira where I then resided and now reside.  In 1819, the Courts were held at Spencer in the Eastern part of Tioga County, and the Clerk's office having been removed from Elmira to Spencer, I as the Clerk removed to that place, where Capt French resided, when our intimacy was renewed.  He was then Dep Shff and Gaoler, and lived with his family in the Court House.  One of the Jury Rooms in the same building was assigned to me for the keeping of the pubic records.  Consequently, being under the same roof, he spent much of his time in my office.  He had been a favorite with the officers of the Army as I should judge, by his remarks and the anecdotes he related of them.  I had from an early period of my life been much interested in the details of the Revolution, and as Capt French had a wonderful memory, and possessed a great fund
Page 82

of anecdote in reference to the distinguished men of a past and much admired generation, he was to me a desirable companion.  Our then residence was about nine miles from the location of a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and an Encampment of Knight Templars, of which we were both members, and to whose meetings we always went in company -

He was a man of a jovial turn, full of fun and frolic, and of undoubted courage; and was generally selected by the Sheriff to aid in capturing persons of desperate character, where the kind of courage he possessed was desirable -

He related many interesting details of the Canada expedition at the commencement of the Revolution, in which he participated.  He served under Montgomery at the Siege of St. John's in 1775 and subsequently at Quebec, when Montgomery was slain - 

From the character of the man, and his frank and open manners, as well as undoubted courage, I should think him just the person to have been selected in hazardous expeditions, where reliance was to be placed in the prudence and shrewdness, as well as the courage of the individual to be selected -

In detailing the reminiscences of his military life, I recollect that he frequently referred to the difficulties he experienced in procuring forage [previous two words underlined] & provisions, and the expedients he was compelled to adopt to obtain such supplies as were needed

It has been the uniform tradition in this Section of country (which I have had a good opportunity of learning during my residence here of over fifty years) that the said French acquired his title of Captain [previous word by which he was designated, from
Page 83

having been a Wagon Conductor in the Revolution, -

I never heard him say, that he was commissioned as Captain, [previous word underlined] and presume his title was a complimentary one.  If he had ever been a Captain of Militia, since the Revolution, I think  he would have spoken of it during our acquaintance, but never said in my hearing (to my recollection) how he obtained his title

I cannot say distinctly that he ever said to me, in so many words, [previous four words underlined] that he had been a Wagon Conductor, [previous six words underlined] but for the reasons before mentioned, of his having repeatedly referred to such services, as would indicate such a grade, and the tradition of the neighborhood seeming to acknowledge it, I had no doubt that his title was so acquired, altho' he did not profess to have held in the line, [previous three words underlined] any higher grade than that of Sergeant.  I aided in obtaining his pension under the act of 1818, in which he claimed to have served as Sergeant, during most of the war -  At that time, I believe no allowance was made for Wagon Service, which I suppose was the reason why he made no mention of it.  Afterwards at his request, I obtained a surrender of his original discharge signed by Genl. Washington, and on the files of the Pension Office; to accomplish which I obtained  an order from Genl Jackson, then President, on depositing a sworn copy of it.  This was on Washingtons Birthday in 1830 or 31, when I represented the District in Congress.  Capt French died (I think) in April 1831: some years afterwards I obtained for his widow Nancy French, a pension under the act of 1838.  She died, I believe in Feb 1844 at which time nothing was known in her neighborhood of Wagon Service, being pensionable, which I presume
Page 84

account for no claim having been made for that service at that early day - 

From the foregoing circumstances, and many others not necessary to mention, my own impressions have been that Capt French acted a part of the time in the Revolution, as a Wagon Master or Conductor, and that he was detailed from the time of the Army for that purpose.  Whether I obtained these impressions from conversations held with him or from the traditions in the county, I cannot state with certainty, but most probably from both - 

I would further state that I have no interest in the claim of the heirs of Mrs. French, for Increase of her pension, and am not concerned in the prosecution of it.  My first knowledge of such claim was a short time since, when called upon by one of the heirs to take affidavits in the case, & procure certain papers from the Surrogate office in connection with it.
Tho. Maxwell

State of New York Chemung County Surrogate office } ss

On this 31st day of March 1855 before the Ariel S. Thurston The county Judge and Surrogate of said county personally appeared Thomas Maxwell Esq. who being duly sworn according to Law, made oath that he had prepared the foregoing statement in writing [illegible] by him and know the contents thereof; and that he believes the matters therein contained are true as stated.
Page 85

And I further certify that I have been acquainted with the said Thomas Maxwell Esq for about twenty five years, that he is a gentleman of high attainments and well versed in the written and traditionary history of the county and the genealogy and early history of its inhabitants, and that any and all statements made by him are entitled to the fullest credence.  He has held important public offices and was formerly a Representative in Congress from this Dist.

In testimony whereof I have set my hand and affixed my official Seal at Elmira the day & year first above written

Ariel S. Thurston
Page 86

Affidavit of 
Jonathan Van Gorder, 
that John French
frequently told him
he was a Wagon Conductor.

E. F. Brown
Atty.
Present.
Page 87

State of New York  Chemung County ss }

On this 28th day of March 1855. before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace of the County aforesaid personally appeared Jonathan Vangorder resident of the Town of Dix age sixty Eight years, who being duly sworn according to law, does on oath make the following Statement viz: I was well acquainted with John French, which he was always called Captain John French and I am informed that the pension office is not satisfied that the same John French served as a waggon Conductor in the Revolutionary war.  That he has frequently told me that he was a waggon Conductor, that he was intimately acquainted with general Washington; and that he was called Captain for the reason that he had command of teams.
Jonathan Vangorder

Subscribed and sworn before me this 28th day of March 1855 }  
James Van Etten
Justice of the Peace

State of New York
Chemung County Clerks Office ss.
I, Albert F. Babcock Clerk of said County do hereby certify that James Van Etten whose name is subscribed to the above affidavit, was at the time of [illegible]ing the form a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, commissioned
Page 88

sworn and duly authorized to take the same.

That I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice & verily believe that the signature to the said affidavit is genuine.

In Testimony Whereof I have hereto subscribed my name & affixed the seal of said County this 30th day of March 1855, 
Uriah S. Lowe Dp. Clerk
Chemung Co.
Page 89

Affidavit of 
Leonard Jones, [name underlined] whose
Father often said French
was a Wagon Conductor and 
he saw him more than once
in that capacity.

Also, Affidavit of 
Samuel G. Bliven 
Often was told by French 
that he conducted Teams
& Wagons in Revy. War.

Claim of 
Nancy French, decd.
Wid. John.
N. Y. Act 1838 & 43.

E. F. Brown,
Atty.

Washn. D. C.  Aug. 2. '55. }
Page 90

State of New York  Tioga County  } ss

On this 2d day of July 1855, before me the undersigned a Justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid, personally appeared Leonard Jones, a resident of said County aged fifty six years who being duly Sworn according to Law, deposeth and saith that he is a Son of the late John Jones of this county who was a revolutionary Pensioner as a Sergeant, and died in December, 1944, and Sarah Jones who was also a Pensioner as his widow and died in September 1949.  That from his earliest remembrance he has heard his said Father Say that he served in the Militia of Westchester county New York some months in every year from 1776 to 1783.  That he served at various points on the Hudson River during those years, that among the numerous persons with whom he became acquainted during said war was the late Capt John French of this county who died more than twenty years ago, deponent Says that he was well acquainted with said Captain John French and that he has frequently heard his Said Father & said Capt French talk of incidents of Said War, that occurred while they were in the Service together, and is certain that his Father often said that Said French was a Wagon Conductor, & that he Saw him more than once in that
Page 91

capacity passing through Westchester county.  The deponent further swears that the Said Capt French bore the character among his neighbors of having been a Wagon Conductor in this Said War, and it was always believed that he was complimented with the title of Captain because he had commanded a company of Teams in the Revolution and he knows that Mrs Nancy Gates of Van Etten Ville [text crossed out] is one of the Daughters of Said Captain French and Nancy French his widow, and further that he has no interest in the claim of the Heirs of the Said Nancy French, which is now pending for an Increase of Pension, and is not concerned in the prosecution of it.
Leonard Jones

Sworn & Subscribed before me this 2d day of July 1855, and I certify that the above named Leonard Jones is a respectable and credible resident of the town of Spencer in this county, & his statements may be relied on as correct.  I further certify that I have no interest in the claim of the Heirs of Nancy French deceased and am not concerned in the prosecution thereof.
John A. Nichols
Justice of the Peace
of Tioga County NY
Page 92

State of New York  Tioga County } SS

Samuel G Bliven being by me John A Nichols a Justice of the peace in afor Said County duly Sworn according to law deposeth & Says that he is fifty six years old, that he was well acquainted with Capt John French in his life time, that Said French resided in Spencer in the county of Tioga N York for many years before his death, that he has had frequent talks with Said French of incidents which took place during the Revolutionary War & While Said French was in the Service, that he heard Said French Say that he had charge & was teamster in Said Service & that he had control of & conducted a number of teams with Wagons in the said War & that he has no interest in Said claim or in its prosecution
Samuel G Bliven

Sworn & Subscribed this 2d day of Feby 1855 before me, & I certify that the above named Samuel G Bliven is a resident of Spencer County of Tioga & State of N York & is a respectable & credible person & his Statement may be [illegible] as correct
John A Nichols
Justice
Page 93

State of New York Tioga County: ss   I, LeRoy W Kingman Clerk of the Tioga County Court said court being a Court of Record do certify that John A Nichols Esq before whom the foregoing declaration & affidavit was made was at the time the same bears date a Justice of the Peace in & for said County duly Elected and Sworn & authorized to act as such, and that I am well acquainted with his hand writing and verily believe his signatures within written to be genuine  Given under my hand and the seal of Said Court this 6th day of July A D 1855

L W Kingman Clerk
Page 94

STATE OF NEW YORK, TIOGA COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE, } ss.

I, LEROY W. KINGMAN, Clerk of said County, and also Clerk of the Courts in and for said County, do hereby certify that John A. Nichols & Israel S Hoyt Esqs whose names ["is" crossed out and "are" written above] subscribed to the Certificate of proof or acknowledgment of the annexed Instrument, and thereon written, was, at the date of said Certificate of proof, or acknowledgement, Justices of the peace in and for said County, duly commissioned and sworn, and duly authorized to take the same, and further, that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justices and verily believe that the signatures to the said Certificate of proof or acknowledgement, is genuine, and that the same is in due form, and in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the Seal of the said Courts and County, at Owego, this 31" day of July 1855.

L W Kingman CLERK.
Page 95

State of Newyork  Tioga County } ss

On this 27th day of July 1855 before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid personally appeared Joseph West a resident of Said County aged Sixty years  who having duly Sworn according to law deposeth and saith that he was well acquainted with the said Captn. John French, a revolutionary Pensioner.  That he heard the said French said he served a part of the time as a teamster or Wagon Conductor in said War and that he served a part of the time as a Sergeant in the Militia.  That he came by the title of Captain as his having the command of teams - the deponent further saith that he was well acquainted with said John French about from the year of 1817 up to the time of his death and that the said French have the character of strict truth and veracity.  This deponent further deposes and says that Nancy Gates of Vanetten Ville is a Daughter of the said Captain French and Nancy French his Widow.  He further saith that he has no claim in said pension.
Joseph West 

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 27th day of July 1955 and I Certify the above named Joseph West is a respectable and credible resident of the Town of Tioga in this County and his statement may be relied on as correct

I further Certify that I have no interest in the claims of the heirs of Nancy French deceased and am not concerned in the prosecution of it.
Israel S. Hoyt
J. P. of Tioga County
Page 96

[left portion of document]

prosecution of it.

John A Nichols J P - 
of Tioga County.

[right portion of document]

Affidavits of Joseph West, who was often told by French that he was a Wagon Conductor, & so obtained his Title of Captain.

Also, of John Forsyth, that French told him to same effect & that he was Sergeant at the same time he was a Wagon Conductor.

Claim of Nancy French decd.
Wid. John.
N. Y.  Act 1838 &c.

E. F. Brown
Atty.

Washn. D. C.
Aug 2/55.
Page 97

State of New York
Tioga County  SS
On the 30th day of July 1855. before me the undersigned a Justice of the peace in & for the county aforesaid personally appeared John Forsyth a resident of the town of Spencer in Said County aged Seventy years, he being duly Sworn according to law deposeth & saith that he was well acquainted with the late Capt John French a revolutionary pensioner. That he frequently talked with said French in relation to his being in the war, & the Said French often Said to me that he Served in the revolution a part of the times - as Wagon Master.  That he had charge & command of the teams that conveyed the bagage for the army, [word crossed out] & that he served part of the time as sergeant in the Malitia that he was sergeant as aforesaid during this same time he was conductor of said wagons, & deponent has frequently heard Said French say that he came by the title of Capt from having the charge & being conductor of the teams -.
Page 98

deponant further say that he knew the said Capt French for forty years or more previous to his death.
John Forsyth

Sworn to & Subscribed before me this 30" day of July 1855 & I certify the above named John Forsyth is a respectable & credible resident of the town of Spencer in the County of Tioga & his Statement may be relied on as correct, & I further certify that I have no interest in this claim of the heirs of Nancy French deceased & am not concerned in the prosecution of it
John A Nichols J.P.
of Tioga County.
Page 99

Department of State,
Washington, Augt 15. 1855

Sir

In reply to your note of the 14th instant I have to inform you that the name of John French is found on a return of Wagon Conductors embracing the period between the 8th and 18th October 1778.  At this time he was serving under the immediate orders of James Thompson Wagon Master Genl.  His name is also found on a "Return of persons in the Department of the Quarter Master Genl under the inspection of Mr. Mitchell D. 2. Mr. Genl Dec. 1, 1779."  On this "Return" he appears as Wagon Master.

His name is also found on a "Return of persons in the Quarter Master Generals Department, in the City of Phila, under the inspection of Mr. Mitchell, Deputy Quarter Master Genl., April 17, 1780"

On this return also, he appears as Wagon Master.

No other particulars are furnished by the records, which can afford any
Page 100

aid in settling the question of identity.

I am respectfully
Your Obdt Servant
W. L. Marcy
[line crossed out]

Hon. J. Minot
Comr of Pensions
Washington
Page 101

Washington City, 15. Decr. 1854.

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

Sir:

I have the honor to enclose herewith, a Certificate of the Secretary of State of the U. S. showing that altho' on a previous examination the name of John French could not be found on his Rolls, yet in reply to a note from Mr. Peugh, on another examination it is found that John French was a Wagon Conductor from Oct. 8. 1778, to April 17. 1780, being 18 months, 10 days.

I also enclose a letter from Hartford, Conn. showing that the name of John French does not appear on the "imperfect Rolls" of the Conn,. Hist. Socy.

These papers are respectfully submitted to your consideration, with the following suggestions in reply to your letter to me of 6th. inst. - 

1st. - As Wagon Service was not pensionable at the time John French and his Widow were allowed, it could not be expected such service would be mentioned in their papers.

2nd.  As Sergeants were often selected for Wagon Conductors and paid separately for such service, it is not surprising that his name does not appear in that capacity on his Company Rolls.

3d. - The Witnesses testify he spoke of having had much trouble in procuring Forage and Feed, which would seem to negative the idea you express that he might have been detailed to command a Guard to protect Teams, as Guards were not required to procure [previous word underlined] Forage.

Trusting that these papers and suggestions will be satisfactory, I will only add that it will be a convenience to the Administration if you will make the Certificate payable at New York City.

I have the honor to be,
Very Respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt.
Edm. F. Brown
Atty
for Heirs Nancy French, decd.
Widow of John
of N. Y.
Page 102

State of New York
Chemung County
Surrogate Court  ss

This hereby certified that Seldon Gates who has been heretofore appointed Administrator of the good chattels and credits of Nancy French the widow of John French deceased has filed a new Bond with approved security in the sum of two thousand five hundred Dollars

Dec 27 1854.
Ariel S. Thornton
Surrogate
Page 103

Newtown March [illegible number]th 1855

To Commissioner of Pensions

You have evidently mistaken the person in the John French of Saratoga Co   

The person to whom I refered is John J French who lived in the Town of Spencer Chemung (now Tioga) County and died there.

He enlisted in the war of the Revolution at Bellows Falls Vermont, was in Western New York when discharged and settled there, and died there  If nothing is being done toward getting the pension of John J French we would like to know, that something may be done.  He is entitled to land as well as money for arrear pension which his widow never
Page 104

recieved although she drew a pension for some years 

Please inform

Yours Truly
Fredk B Swift
Page 105

recieved although she drew a pension for some years 

Please inform

Yours Truly
Fredk B Swift
Page 106

Washington City April 3, 1855.

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

Sir:

The enclosed additional evidence in relation to the claim of Nancy French, decd. Widow of John, of N. Y. for Increase of Pension under the Acts of 1838 & 1843, is respectfully submitted in reply to your letter to me of 24th January last.  This reply has been delayed because I was anxious to satisfy my own mind whether the claim was a just one, and to procure such additional testimony as would leave the Department no room to doubt.

The accompanying Affidavit of the Hon. Thomas Maxwell,  formerly a Member of Congress, who, as a Free Mason, as Deputy Sheriff, and as Clerk of the County, spent many years with John French, seems to indicate that from Traditionary history  he must have been a Wagon Conductor; and I trust you will consider it as evidence of a high order, as the County Judge certifies to the standing and attainments of the Affiant.

I also enclose additional statements of Levi English and James Van Etten, re-itterating their firm belief that said John French was a Wagon Conductor and obtained his Title, (complimentary) of Captain, from having commanded Team Drivers,  and had charge of Forage, &c. -
Page 107

Also, the Affidavit of Jonathan Van Gorder, another who was told by French himself of said service.

Allow me, Sir, now to reply to some points in your letter of 24th January.  You say, "the entry on the Roll, of Sept. 9. 1778, simply shows that the John French who was in Watson's Company was with Genl. Scott, not that he was a Wagon Conductor."

There are papers in your Office which show that during that and the following year the Army had much trouble in procuring and managing Teams, Forage, &c. and the papers now submitted show that our John French was just the kind of man to aid in such difficulties; and it is most probable that after being "on command with Genl. Scott" from Sept. 9, to Oct. 8, (probably scouring the country for Drivers, Forage, &c.) he was on 8th Oct. given the command of a Company of Teamsters.  His making no mention of said service in his Declaration in 1818, is not singular, because it was not pensionable, and others who had served in the Staff made the same omissions, one of whom I named to you, Eleazer Blake; and I am informed it was common for such to retain their place on the Roll of their Company. 

In reply to your third objection, I would respectfully suggest, that we do not claim that he served as Wagon Conductor up to 1783, and if we did, it could not be named in that Honorable Discharge of Genl. Washington of which he was so proud, because having kept his place in the Line as Sergeant, he must have been discharged as such; and the papers now sent would seem to place his Title of Captain in its true light, viz: that it was only complimentary.
Page 108

Upon a re-consideration of the facts in the case, and a careful examination of the enclosed papers, if you should not feel satisfied that the identity is established, be pleased to grant me a personal interview.

I trust, however, that you will admit this claim for the service of John French
18 months 10 days as Wagon Conductor, and
5     "          20    " as Sergeant, the former payments to the Widow at $120 per year to be deducted, and make it payable at New York City, to Selden Gates, Administrator.

I have the honor to be,
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt.
Edm. F. Brown 
Atty.
Box 278.
Page 109

Extracts from Reports of
Wagon Master General: -
and Arguments for 
Claim of
Nancy French,
Widow of John,
of N. Y. - for Increase.
Acts 1838 & 1843.

E. F. Brown,
Atty.
Present.

11. Apl. 1855.
Page 110

Nancy French, [name underlined], Widow of John.  N. Y.

The additional evidence in this case, enclosed in my letter of 3rd inst., has been examined by Mr. Dodge, and without answering the evidence or the arguments, he has fallen back on an objection made on 16. Dec. last, and altho' it was answered by me on 29th. Decr. and not being replied to by the Commissioner's letter of 24th. Jany. and therefore supposed to have been abandoned, Mr. D. seems to think [previous word underlined] it is fatal [previous word underlined] to the claim [previous word underlined] for Increase. [previous word underlined]  That he is mistaken [previous word underlined] in his conclusion, the following facts will, I think, demonstrate.  [previous word underlined]  It is based on the simple entry on the Rolls of the Pension Office by which claimant's Husband appears to have been promoted from Corporal to Sergeant on 24. March 1780, being 24 days previous to the end of his service as Wagon Conductor according to the best data we have found.

We have shown that there is a discrepancy [previous word underlined] in the Rolls, and that the Rolls in Massachusetts make him a Sergeant all the year 1780, [previous five words underlined] and not [previous word underlined] in service afterwards, [previous word underlined] while his Discharge shows he served till 8. June 1783; and the payments [previous word underlined] certified in Massachusetts show too much [previous two words underlined] for the service named [previous two words underlined] and too little [previous two words underlined] for the service [previous word underlined] known to have been performed. [previous word underlined]

It is not denied that Sergeants and Corporals, and even Privates were sometimes made conductors, because there was often much difficulty in obtaining suitable ones: in proof of which,, I would refer to a batch of letters relative to Wagon Service, now in the Chief Clerk's room, from Lambert Lockwood, Nehemiah Hubbard,
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and others, where one says: -
Under date of Jun 30. 1778, "Shall supply you with a Company of Teams soon, but dont see what the Dl. the Commissary can do with two or three Teams when he has but about half a dozen provisions in store - dont care a farthing what the inhabitants think, or their disappointments in this matter, as the Angel Gabriel could not please them all.  If you can engage a Company of ten Teams at Litchfield, with a Conductor and one man as Cook for six months, should like it very well."

Under date, Harford July 5. 1778, he says -  "dont think it will be in our power to raise them, (Teamsters) under 20/per day - If I am to give to those I am to raise 20/, the others must have the same, or else the Devil will be raised with them."

We have proven by testimony of high character the traditionary history [previous two words underlined] of the man as a Wagon Conductor [previous two words underlined] and as just such a man [previous four words underlined] as would be naturally selected for such service or any other of an important nature.  We have also proven by the Rolls [previous word underlined] of Wagon Conductors [previous two words underlined] that a man of his name [previous four words underlined] was a Wagon Conductor from 8. Oct. 1778 to 17. April 1780, and from the Roll of his own Company [previous three words underlined] that he was "on command with Genl. Scott" [previous five words underlined] on 9. Sept. 1778, one month previous to the commencement of said Wagon Service, showing that this same man must have been in the Staff, [previous nine words underlined] and during that month probably preparing [previous two words underlined] for the Wagon service by obtaining Forage, &c. as mentioned by the Witnesses.  This would seem likely from the fact that Nehemiah Hubbard, Wagon Master General, when writing that very day [previous three words underlined] about sending provisions to Boston (see same papers in Chief Clerk's Room) says: -
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"Hartford, Sept. 9. 1778."

"We can raise one hundred Teams for four months, but cannot raise more - the Transportation will take five hundred Teams - great difficulty [previous two words underlined] in obtaining them [previous two words underlined] on account of wages - everything high prices."

Sept. 16. 1778.  "Have consulted with Capt. Starr on the best method to obtain the Teams requested - find it more difficult to raise them than was ever expected." [underlined from "more" through the end of the sentence]

Nov. 7. 1778.  "The six months Teamsters times will be out in a few days, and cannot get them to engage again under four dollars per day."

Feb. 19. 1778.  "Could not possibly [previous two words underlined] supply with any more Teams."

Feb. 11. 1780.  "Have discharged three Companies of Teams and will discharge the rest unless they will agree to serve the next campaign on the other side of the North River, or wherever called for."

Under the difficulties then existing, as indicated by the foregoing Extracts, and by Traditionary history, the Officers must have had recourse to the selection of some of their best non-commissioned Officers for Conductors, and the note on the Company Roll that on 9. Sept. 1778 Claimants Husband was "on command with Genl. Scott," [previous four words underlined] would seem to confirm that conclusion.

Again - the last Extract above shows that in February 1780, the Wagon Master General had commenced discharging Teams, and it is probable that on 24. March following, the proper Officer knowing that French would soon be relieved from that service and return to his company, in consideration of his faithfulness, ordered him to be entered on the Roll as promoted to Sergeant,
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altho' he did not leave the Wagons, or the charge of them, till 24 days afterwards.

It has before been contended, and will probably now be admitted, that his being discharged as a Sergeant [previous four words underlined] is no evidence [previous two words underlined] he was not [previous word underlined] a Wagon Conductor, because he could not be discharged in any other way, [previous eight words underlined] as Genl. Washington did not [previous two words underlined] give Discharges [previous word underlined] to Staff Officers. [previous two words underlined]

Last, but not least, - if we calculate his Pay in the Line, [previous four words underlined] and compare it with payments certified by the Secretary of Massachusetts, it will appear that there is something wanting [previous two words underlined] to complete the payments [previous three words underlined] up to the date of his Discharge in 1783: - thus - 

His Pay, from Jany. 1. 1777, to 31. Dec. 1780,
36 mo. Corporal, 12 mo. Sergeant ... $384.-
from 1 Jany. 1781, to 8. June 1783,
2 years, 5 mo. 8 days, as Sergeant ..... 292.44
                         Total..... $676.44

Actually paid him, per Certif. Secy. Mass.....412.44
Leaving due, or unaccounted for....$264.00

Now, if we take the amount paid him ... $412.44, and deduct the time he must have been paid elsewhere as Wagon Conductor, 1 year, 5 mo. 16 days Corporal, and 24 days Sergeant, say ..... 136.33
it will leave ...... $276.11
being within $16.33 of enough to pay him as Sergeant from 1. Jany. 1781, to 8. June 1783, when he was discharged.
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As the Affidavit of Hon. Thomas Maxwell, enclosed in my letter of 3d inst., gives such a concise account of the man, confirming the statements of other Witnesses, and as the other facts herein mentioned correspond with the Records as nearly as could be expected when it is remembered that he died in 1831, and his Widow in 1844, there seems to be no prospect of clearer proof of identity until that Great Day
"When we shall see, and hear, and know, 
"All we desired and wished below." -

Hoping and believing the case is now made out, it is
Respectfully submitted:
Edm. F. Brown
Atty.

Washington City,
11. April 1855.

To the Commissioner of Pensions, Present. }