Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 277, Benjamin Conner, Privateer (N.H.)
Page 1

(3-1776)

Service
Privateer (N.H.)

Conner, Benjamin
or
Connor

Number
R.277
———————————
Contents
Page 2

(Copy)
The War Department of the United States
To Benjamin Connor   Dd
————————————————————-
1813
April 21st
To a model of an experimentious Bridge suitable for military operations - made by direction of the Secretary of War
$100
To a model of a Floating arched Bridge suitable also for military operations, made by the same order.
$100
———-
$200
N.B.  The above models are made conformably to, and are fully described in, a Patent obtained from the U.S for their principles: and it is understood that whenever these plans shall be carried into effect for the purposes of the government, a further renumeration shall be made to the said Benjamin Connor the patentee at the same rate as is paid by Individuals for the exercise of the said Patent Rights - 
John Armstrong (signature)

Received April 21st 1813 of Wm Simmons Acctt
W.D. a warant No. 677 for Two hundred Dollars in full of the within amount - 
Benj. Connor

Ds 200 - 

(Left margin)

[Trace?] copy from the original
[3?] said office Feb 3, 1820
Peter Hagner Acct
Page 3

Petition of 
[crossed out Memoreal] 

Benjamin Connor, 
setting forth that he 
has invented a new plan 
for the construction of wooden 
Bridges &c, which he thinks 
would be useful to the 
Military service of the 
County, & praying Congress 
for reasonable remuneration  
——————————-

11th June 1813. 
Referred to the secretary of War
—————————
26th June, 1813 
Report made, and referred to the 
military Committee 
———————-
6 July 1813. 
Committee discharged and leave given 
to withdraw.
——————- 
Mr Webster 
upd  Sec War
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To the Congress of the United States

The Memorial of Benjamin Connor of the State of New Hampshire

most respectfully represents, 

that in a long course of practical exertion for the purposes of improving useful Arts, he has been so fortunate as to invent several new kinds of Wooden Bridges - simple in their construction, expeditionary made, yet combining with these qualities all the strength of which the material is capable; some of them so formed as to be easily transported from place to place by Land-carriage; and therefore are peculiarly adapted to Military purposes, as they would greatly facilitate the march of troops through Countries intersected by Rivers and deep Ravines - and at same time admit of passing Artillery and all sorts of Military & [right margin cut off]
Nor is the utility of this new System of  Bridge building confined to operations on one element only; but a certain description of Bridges invented by your Memorialist, offers an eligible mode of Maritime defence and may be made a formidable arm for annoying, and perhaps of annihilating, Ships that may presume to enter the Waters of the United States with hostile intentions 

The general principles of these valuable improvements are fully described in a Patent that has been granted to your Memorialist under the authority of our Laws; and he has the satisfaction to know that so far as the principal points of his system can be explained by language and models, it has been honored by the unequivocal approbation of many men of great discernment, eminent for scientific talents and practical knowledge, as it is more amply exprest in the annexed Document to which your memorialist humbly craves reference. 

The desire of rendering these improvements more promptly & extensively useful
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useful to his native Country than they can ever be made by individual enterprise, induces your Memorialist, at this critical moment of military contest to offer his System of Bridge  building to the Delegates of National Authority in the full perruation that under their auspicious patronage its great until its will be fairly and advantageously tested by ample experiment:- and at the same time in the full confidence that they will be pleased to grant him a reasonable Renumeration for his indefatigable excretions in bringing this propose System to its present degree of perfection. - 

All which is most respectfully submitted. - 
Benjn-Connor

Washington City. May 27 1813
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(Crossed out)
640
282
8*2

Exclusively of & All Others

The Axemuth of a World A Thing Desired

(Say-lay is 360). Exemuth
                        2
                     720

1600
       400
640000
1280000

(4444
        2
(8888
 
Errors &. Omissions excepted. BC

1,280,000

Degrees - 80,000 at Least is words off words
B.Connor
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COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS. 

ESSEX, SS. -- Town of Salisbury, 

BE IT KNOWN, and made manifest, That on this twenty-fourth day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine and in the fifty-third year of the Independence of the United States of America, before me Edward Dorr, Esq. a Notary Public, for the County of Essex, by legal authority admitted and sworn, and a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, dwelling in Salisbury aforesaid, personally appeared Samuel Nye, Esq. of the same Salisbury, Physician, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath testify and declare as follows, viz: 
That in the year seventeen hundred and seventy-seven and seventy-eight, he was Surgeon on board the private armed vessel called the Vengeance, commanded by Captain Wingate Newman, for eleven months; said privateer was the property of individuals, but was commissioned by the proper authorities of the then Colonies of North America (now United States) to cruize against the British, then at war with this country. During that time said privateer was engaged in several severe actions with the enemy, and captured many prizes. That he knows and is well acquainted with Capt. Benjamin Connor, of New Hampshire, now in Washington City, and does know that the said Benjamin Connor was a Lieutenant on board the above mentioned vessel, and that he served faithfully as such during the whole of the above mentioned period
(Signed) SAMUEL NYE

To all which he has subscribed his name in my presence.  

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I do also hereunto set my hand and affix my seal of office, the day, monthand year first above mentioned. I do also certify that the above named Samuel Nye, is personally known to me, and believed to be a creditable witness.
( Signed ) EDWARD DORR, Not. Pub. and Jus. Peace,
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It appears by the Journal of Samuel Nye kept at the time, and which looks correct and very particular, as to names and places; that there is an evident mistake in this printed affidavit, respecting the time of service, which should should be 1778 and 1779 instead of 1777 and 1778
Edward Dorr
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We the Subscribers, Master Mechanics, residing in the Northern Liberties in the County of Philadelphia, having seen and examined the model of a Bridge, erected by Mr Benj Conner, and particularly the Escape thereof invented by him for increasing the extension of timber beams, designated by the name of Conners Wedlock Escape, we do hereby certify that we are of opinion that the same is completely adapted to its purpose and by far exceeds any thing of the kind [crossed out -of]  heretofore seen by us 

Philadelphia Jany 10 1812. 
John Keen No 2 Green Street Northern Liberties Henry Weaver No 49 St. Tammany Street Thomas Town No. 310 North front street, Millwright 
Thomas Conaro No 32 Coalhill St {Contracting
Job Scott No 10 Butler’s Court {Wharf builders 

I do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the Gentlemen whose names are subscribed to the within recommendation and know them all to be persons of respectability 
W. Binder 

Having inspected the mode of lengthening timber to extend over long spans as bearers for Bridges to any extension by escarping or joining timber hand to hand to be put in practice by the most plain and simple practice and strongest manner that I have seen practiced and executed by Capt Benjamin Conner and hereby testify the same- 
Philadelphia Jany 12, 1812. 
Thos. Town
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(top panel)

I do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with Thos. Town, he being a near neighbor of mine in the township of the Northern Liberties (Millwright)
W. Binder

Lancaster, July 25, 1812
Copy, (Signed)
Benjamin Connor

(middle panel)
Connor B [crossout]
Recommendations of Bridge
[illegible signature]

(lower panel)
B Connor
Bridging
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Genl Smith
John Armstrong
Page 12


Copy

1813 
Aug  6 
Recd a few lines from Genl J Smith, to Secretary Armstrong then at Philidelphia, requesting me to be sent back to Baltimore respecting sinking the hulks or Vessels in order to raise them occasionly - I was sent back [crossed out to Phila] 
At Baltimore Genl Smith sent Captain Stiles to advise me on the best manner to sink the said Vessels -  which was to first make them tile by calking in every direction [Ded liter scull?] etc etc then to prepair masts acrost fore & aft as a Cradle: then to take out the pumps, place others in with one bore so as to step the Original pumps in the loar bore so that after the scuttle to admit the filling the vessels; close the port to exclude the fowl water settling wherefore the first water remain untill Occasion to lift the hulks which may be easely Effected -

Capt Stiles approved highly of the mode repeatedly Visited Genl Smith untill sent back to Phila 
My Lodgins when at Baltimore was at Mr J Barney The Commity, consisted, all masters of Vessels - the mode was  add after as by me,  
B  Connor as by mem.
Washington DC

(Left margin note)
In 2h hours all those vessel after Peace and in about  as [maner?] sunk at Norfolk Va all destroud & 12 month getting up to clear channel
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1812  Mem[*] Being at Washington DC 
1813  untill the Invader was below 

4 Aug  Engaged to go with Genl Wilkins to remain with him in his family 

6 do  Seet[?] and G W. determond, to start - [Seet?] did, to prepair route 

7 do Genl Wilkinsons Hack was full -  take to [illegible] next day by stage did, arive at Baltimore Genl Smith at the Dore at Mr Barnies - began to Intiligate me respecting Sinking the ship Repard to Block the harber - 
from what I had said before -  GS - [illegible] and Wrote a billet, to the Secretary Armstron for Me to be sent back -  from Philadelphia -  as I was Witness 
the son of Genl Smith an ade or attendant will Mr Armstrong as was Genl______ at Phila 
when I arrived & ordered back to Baltimore
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1785, US Congress determined to build Six, 74 Gun Ships the timber to be procured in Georgia, all sd Timber was lumber Cut & brought Landed in the Docks 
Instruction was given to Joseph Fox [name crossed out -David Bedinger]. Navy Constructor on the 26 of August -  1805 to require David Bedinger of Norfolk, George Herrison at Philadelphia, John Beckman at N York, Saml Brown at Boston, and Henry S Langdon Portsmouth  Nhampshire -  

To make a return to him of all the timber deposited the yard respectively under his care & and said Fox was to make his Report to the Secretary of the Navy
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Navy, 1805, (Instruction) To Require David Bedinger of Norfolk, George Harrison at Phila -John Beekman of N York Saml Brown Boston & Hen S Langdon at Ports  NH 

My Dear Captain

I have this to say 

Norfolk Va   Worms - Rotten over 1/2} & more so
Phil rot NY Boston -          do. 1/3}
New Yorke  worms - Worms.  2/3 worms
Washington  Rotten.   2/3
Port. NH all sound & good


Over half Rotten Worms Roten or Ur} ar return
Portsmouth NH all sound & Good }
Only One 74 in gun ship built with S [illegible] 
that at Portsmouth -

(Left margin)
Navy 1805
6 74 gun ships
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Porter Constant Logg
W Newcom

N-York  A[illegible]
At Miss Batese

%
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Article of Agreement relating to the above described “Porter’s Constant Log”

For England only 

Benjamin Connor has agreed with William Newcom to take the invention to Liverpool England, there to dispose of the same for the most he can obtain; and at the return to the United States deliver and pay over to Benjamin Connor, one half of said proceeds -  the other one - half the said Wm Newcom retains for trouble and charges- 
New York, March 6, 1815 
Wm. Newcomb (signature)
Benj Connor (signature

March 7th 1815
New York
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I have the honor to observe that the president of the US has refered me to the Secretary Navy department to examine the instructions given to the Commissioners appointed by Congress in 1805 to examine the Different Navy yards & Dock yard in the United States & I have the honor to request that you will be Pleased to comply with my request & oblige.

[illegible] Obt Servant
Benj Connor

The Hon’bel Secretary Navy
Washington 20 April 1825.       Copy.

Copied
Page 19

Norfolk Va Worms - over ½ & more
Phila - roten.         1/3 
N York worms       2/3 & [illegible]
Boston [illegible] worm &c
Washington 2/3  roten 
Portsmouth NH. Sound & good
 
Only the 74 Gun ship Built 
that at Portsmouth
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Report of the Secretary of War 
to the House of Rep. on the 
subject of Conner's Bridges 

(Upside down)
Benjamin Connor
Capt.
Seaman
“Vengence”
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Report of the Secretary of War to the House of Representatives on the subject of Benjamin Connor's newly invented Bridges 

War Department, 
February 23d 1813 

Sir:

Mr Benjamin Conner has submitted to my inspection, models of Bridges which from the simplicity of their structure, the cheapness of their materials, and the force of the mechanical power employed in them (the lever and arch combined) are in my opinion well calculated for military purposes. I have the honor therefore, respectfully to report conformably to the order of the Honorable the House of Representation of the 11th inst referring to this department of the petition of Benjamin Conner, that the right to make and to use bridges made after these models, and the model themselves, should be purchased from Mr. Conner, the petition and documents are herewith returned 
I have the honor & 
John Armstrong


The Honl The Speaker of the House of Representatives 
of the United States
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A 

NEW AND IMPROVED METHOD 

or 

SURVEYING: 

WITH 

A CHART, OR DELINEATION, 

SHEWING THE PRINCIPLES AND APPLICATION OF LAYING OUT 

THE PUBLIC LANDS. 

BELONGING TO THE UNITED STATES 

BY 

BENJAMIN CONNOR.
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Letters  respecting 
Bridges
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(Left side)
Capt Connor

Doctor
Ney


(Right side)
20,892
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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
E. PLURIBUS UNUM
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

Essex Ss.       Town of Salisbury 
——————————————————————

BE IT KNOWN and made manifest that on this twenty fourth day of March in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and twenty nine and in the fifty third year of the Independence of the United States of America, before me Edward Dorr, Esq a Notary Public for the County of Essex by legal authority admitted and sworn and a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, dwelling in Salisbury aforesaid 
personally appeared Samuel Ney, Esqr of the same Salisbury, Physision, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath testify and declare as follows, viz. 
That in the years seventeen hundred and seventy seven and seventy eight, he was Surgeon on board the private armed vessel called the Vengeance commanded by Capt Wingate Newman, for eleven months - said Privateer was the Property of Individuals but was commissioned by the proper authority of the then Colonies of North America (now United States) to rise against the British, then at War with this country. - 
during that time said Privateer was engaged in several severe actions, with the enemy and captured many prizes. That he knows and is well acquainted with Capt Benjamin Conner of New Hampshire, now in Washington City, and does know that the said Benjamin Conner was a Lieutenant on board of the above mentioned Venel and that he served faithfully as such during the whole of the above mentioned period. 
Samuel Nye (signature)

To all which he has who subscribed his name in my presence 

In Testimony whereof I do also hereunto set my hand and affix my seal of Office the day and month and year first above written. I do also certify that the above named Samuel Nye is personally known to me and believed by me to be a credible witness. 
Edward Dorr Noy Pub & Jus. Pais
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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 
E. PLURIBUS UNUM 
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS  

Essex Ss. Town of Salisbury  —————————————————————— 
BE IT KNOWN and made manifest that on this twenty first day of June in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and thirty two and in the fifty sixth year of the Independence of the United States of America, before me Edward Dorr, Esq, a Notary Public for the County of Essex by legal authority admitted and sworn and a Justice of the Peace in and for said County dwelling in Salisbury aforesaid, personally appeared Samuel Nye, Esqr of the same Salisbury, Physician, who being duly sworn. according to law, doth on his oath testify and declare as follows, viz. 
That on or about the first of August, in the year one thousand seven hundred and seventy eight, he entered or engaged on board the private armed vessel called Vengeance, mounting twenty guns; commanded by Captain Wingate Newman: that said vessel was the property of individuals, but was commissioned by the proper authorities of the United States: to cruise against British, then at war with this country. 
That after being several weeks at sea, viz, on the seventeenth of September, they fell in with and captured the British Packet Ship Harriot, Sampson Spargo Commander carrying sixteen guns and forty five men. 
That on the twentieth of the same month they fell in with, and after a sharp action of about twenty minutes captured, the British Packet Ship Eagle, Edmund Spence, Commander, carrying twelve guns and forty three men, bound from New York to Falmouth; having on board as passengers, seven British Field Officers and several others of inferior rank - That being then full of prisoners and far to the easward (viz. Lon. 19[degrees] 27'W.) it was judged expedient to make the first port we could in France of Spain.  
Accordingly on the twenty ninth September we arrived at and anchored in the harbour of [Carrumia?]; where our prisoners were all discharged to the number of eighty seven; Captain Newman taking a receipt therefor of the British Consul residing at that port; which receipt procured as many Americans of equal rank in exchange, who had been captured by the British in this country. 
That after making the necessary repairs on the ship the cruise was resumed on the coast of Spain and Portugal, and several prizes made; but none very valuable: 
That on the nineteenth April 1779, we left the port of Vigo, in Spain for Newburyport, where we arrived on the twenty ninth [torn page] following: That Captain Benjamin
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of Newhampshire now resident in Washington City, was second Officer, or second Lieutenant, on board said Ship Vengeance, and in the opinion of him, the deponent, discharged the duties of a brave, faithful and vigilant officer the whole of said cruise. 
Samuel Nye  (signature)

To all which he has subscribed his name in my presence In testimony whereof, I do also hereunto set my hand and affix my seal of office, the day, month and year first afore mentioned. I do also certify that the afore named Samuel Nye is personally known to me, and believed to be a creditable witness 

Edward Dorr, Not. Pub. and Just Peace .
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make application to Congress, thru senate by a Petition - setting forth the date of your appoint and services performed; the injury sustained by a wound received in the performance of duty, the time of confinement and disability from this cause, mention the date of your last payment, and ask for a continuance of it
from that time to the end of the War 
March 3. 1815 with three months pay which was then allowed to officers not retained in service -
————————————————

Capt Conner appt Top, Esq. 10 June 1813 accompanied the Secretary to Fort Warburton & other places on a tour of duty - to Philada order'd back to Baltimore, to sink some ships- Then to New York - That on his way thither he received a hurt in his back from the spring back of one of the seats in the stage - 

Required  by Genl Smith to sink the ships to keep the enemy from coming up of 

(Margin note)
Apply to
Congress
Page 29

(Copy) 

Resolution directing surveys and estimations for Navy Docks 

Resolved by the Senate and house of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled that the President of the United States cause an examination and accurate survey  to be made by Shelfull Enginear of a [scalable?] file & constructed  at a  Dry dock at the Navy Yard at Portsmouth NH Charlestown Massachusetts; Brooklin, New York: and Gosport Virgina and shuch Engineer be requested to state the dimentions necessary for such establishment; the object that apply to either with a detale estimate of the expences of a sutable site and of constructing a dock at each of the said places, and that the President be requested to communicate the same to congress in the first week of the next Session 

Approved May 22, 1826. 
Copy Benj Conner [illegible]}
as Locally site}.        also National [illegible]
Portsmouth NH  July}

To National Journal 
Docks for reparing of War) ships 
or ships of War 
House of Representatives   18 March
also May 22 1826.
Page 30

I have made site & survey at the Navy Yard Portsmouth [crossed out-N Hampshire  Navy] [Island?] all which is requisit above water. 
It may be requsit to sound and Bore for leveling bottom -  Ordering for the same will be strictly attend to  - [illegible] if  practice if any advantage premit me to say no place equal for a dry and Wet Dock Land & all the Island around secure & water sufficient to have [*] Docks for Ships & Meterals all Beloning to the United States of Islane
By Jacob the Head of Purcher under the Late President J Adams Administration 
B Connor 

(Upside down)
Portsmouth. NH July 7th
[illegible] View: Light
Page 31

1828
Navy,  November
[illegible]
Page 32

I have the honor to observe that the President of the US has refered me to the Navy Department to examine the Instructions given to the Commissioners appointed by Congress in 1805 to examine the differant Navy Yarder & deck yards in the United States & I have the Honor to request that you will be pleased to comply with my request and oblige 
Sir your Obt Servant 
Benj n Connor

The Hon Secretary Navy 
Washington 20, April 1825 

Some time after Peace 1783 Congress Determined to Build, 6, 74 Gun Ships the timber to be [crossed out - Produ] Procured in Georgia all the timber was cut and brought and landed in Docks

Instruction was given to Josiah Fox Naval Constructor on the 26th August 1805 to request David Bedinger, at Norfolk, George Harrison at Phila John Beckman at New York, Saml Brown at Boston, and Henry S Langdon at Portsmouth , to make a return to him of all the Timber in the Yards respectively under the care & Mr Fox was to make his report to the Secretary of the Navy.
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Timber to Build 6 ships 74 Gum each for the United States,  Frames all Live [illegible] Oak from Georgia and Deposited in Docks as was 

Washington    Navy Yard    roten
Norfolk           Do-Do.   Worm
Philadelphia    Do Do  roten & usd
New York        Do Do Worms 
Boston              Do Do some worms
Portsmouth       Do Do sound & good
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Resolution directing Survey on Estimation for Boy Docks 

Resolved by the senate and House of Long Representives of the United States of America in Congress assembled that the President of the United States cause an examination and acurate survey to be made by a skilfull Engineer
of a site of a dry dock at the Navy Yard at Portsmouth New Hampshire Charlestown Massachusetts; Brooklin New York, Gosport and such Engineer by request estimate of the expense of a suitable site and of constructing a dock at each of the said places and that the President be requested to communicate the same to Congress in the first week of the next Session 

Approved May 22, 1826. 

July 1, with my son call on the President (the secretary at Norfolk), who advised me to proceed as it made no Oder; then with my son July 2 proceeded to Portsmouth July 9th at the Navy Yard time after time having a thorough survey: after which I sent my survey to W Flord who took a copy in Larg’d also after it again, I sent sd to Drawing to Conl Decater who handed sd Drawing to W J Flord for correcting his & In larging 
I suppose, the same is at the City of Washington or   [illegible]. Mine enlarged by 
D’ d[illegible]
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No 277

Received________, 187___
———————————————————
Navy
Benjamin Conner
Lieutenant

“Vengeance”
Private armed vessel
Rev. War.
Page 36

Copy -     Connor Patents    Copy- 

The United States of America -  

To all to whom these Letters Patent shall come. Whereas, Benjamin Connor, a citizen of the United States, hath alledged that he has 
invented a new and useful improvent in Constructing and navigating ships, to all and vessels  &c which improvement he states has not been known or used before his application; hath made oath that he does verily believe that he is the true Inventor or discoverer of the said improvement; hath paid into the treasury of the United States the sum of thirty Dollars, delivered a receipt for the Same , and presented a petition to the Secretary of State, signifying a desire of obtaining and exclusive  property in the said improvement, and praying that a patent may be granted for that purpose: these are therefore to grant, according to law, to the said Benjamin Connor, his heirs, administrators or assigns, for the Term of fourteen years, from the twenty sixth day of August, One thousand eight hundred and thirteen, that full and exclusive right and liberty of making constructing, using and vending to others to be used, the said Improvent, a description, whereof is given in the words of the said Benjamin Connor himself, in the Schedule annexed, and is made a part
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these presents:
In Testimony whereof I have caused these Letters to be made patent and the Seal of the United States to be hereunto affixed 

Given under my hand, at the City of 
Washington; this twenty-sixth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight hundred and thirteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the thirty eighth 

James Madison 
By the President 
James Monroe 
Secretary of State 

City of Washington, To wit 

I Do Hereby Certify, That the foregoing Letters Patent we[re] delivered to me on the twenty sixth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, to be examined; that I have examined the same, and find them conformable to Law and I do hereby return the same to the Secretary of State, within fifteen days from the Date afforesaid, to wit: -
On this twenty Sixth day of August in the year aforesaid 
William Pinkney 
Attorney General of the United Sates
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(Specification.) 

The Schedule referred to in these letters Patent and making part of the same, containing a description in the words of the said Benjamin Connor himself, of his improvements in constructing and of Navigating Ships, boats, vessels &c. 

First 
The position in which plank ought to be placed upon a ship relatively to the texture or grain of the Wood, is a matter of Primary importance of which appears hitherto to have escaped the notice of Naval Architects and builders in general, at least until the un[der] Signed discovered it, and brought it into practice a few years since. Much observation and actual 
experiment has confirmed his belief that the sap side or superficial growth of the Plank ought always to be placed outwardly and upwards as much as possible, so that the successive coats, layers, or grain the Wood may throw off rain, or any other humidity by its sloping or curved position, and preventing moisture from penetrating into the interior, or heart of the word which it certainly will whenever the heart side is most exposed to the weather, by being placed upwards or outwards, for in this case each particle of moisture applied to the Surface penetrates and spreads throughout the substance of the Wood, like rays of light expanding from the centre of Sphere to its periphery. Supposing then that the side of Ships or other buildings, or the decks of vessels and the flooring of edifices of any kind, be covered with portion of a natural growth of timber sawed either into halves or quarters. It may readily be conceived that the circular position of the
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coats or layers, in the texture or grain of the wood when placed outward and upward will naturally throw off any humidity that may come in contact with it, towards the side of each pier or the joints; and the joints or seams being well secured by caulking or otherwise, will in a great measure, prevent the moisture from penetrating into the interior of the wood and will of course prevent its ordinary decay.
Page 40

Second - In addition to the advantage to be derived in ship building from the relative position in which the sap or grain of the wood either timber or plank out to be placed ,the undersigned has discovered certain artificial means of preserving the plank and timbers of ships and other buildings which means he has been at much pains and expense to list by experiment. A composition which he has efficaciously used for the purpose of appeasing or rendering plank and other descriptions of timber more solid and durable than they have become by any other means is found of the following ingredients viz:
A strong solution of vegetable alkali, oil or grease of any kind, Tar or Turpentine, Tar is preferred. Lime water made immediately at the time of using it by pouring the water over fresh burnt lime.
The vegetable alkali and oil must be mixed together and the mixture kept apart from the jar and lime water until about to be used. The tar and lime water must likewise be previously mixed together; and when the composition is to be used, all the above ingredients must be amalgamated with so much saltwater say sea water as will make its consistence nearly a liquid as that element. It is then to be applied to the wood by means of a common mop or brush or by such other means.
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may be found convenient 

This composition may be applied with qual advantage to Ships or vessels already built, as it will tend to repel or prevent the savages, of the worm; and it is believed will effectually resist the progress, what is called the Dry rot in Timber.

Third 
An Improvement in the act of navigating ships, vessels or boats, which the undersigned claims as his original invention, he denominated the Storm Sail, or weather Proof. It is a sail of a triangular figure, the longest side or edge of which may be attached by earings and points, or otherwise, to any one or all of the lower yards of a ship, or to any other spar rigged in a proper manner for the purpose, by which means, the obtuse angle of the sail, or that part which may be called the clew, will naturally fall amidships, and may there be secured by lanyards or otherwise, to a strong eye or ringbolt, fixed near the most for that purpose; or it may be attached to a large thimble or Collar, sliding up a strong horse, made either of metal, rope or other material when this point or angle of the said is this secured, it precludes the necessity of working tacks and Sheets, as it serves the purpose of both those articles of rigging so essential to the working Square sails - of course it becomes unnecessary to employ so much manual labour as is requisite to manage them in boisterous weather,
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more especially in northern latitudes, where now and post frequently under the tacks and Sheets of heavy shill almost unmanageable. It is evident that sails of the cut here recommended must be more easily worked and trimed than the square Sail in Common use, becase the whole operation  after the sail is once Set is performed by the braces at the extremities of the yard, by those and by the lifts, this kind of sail may with facility be thrown into any position that may be found necessary and will stand fairer to the wind than sails of the ordinary fashion: they may after be used with safety in such winds and Weather as would render it imprudent or perhaps utterly impracticable to set a ships courses, however snugly they might be reefed. In this particular point a double advantage is gained, that is to say in progressing in a voyage when it overblows for the use of Common Sails, and in guarding those Sails against the extraordinary wear and tear, or perhaps total loss, that might accrue from attempting to carry them in such hard weather. 

With triangular sails of the kind here specified, and the occasional aid of Stay sails, the undersigned has made a passage across the Atlantic when other ships have been obliged either to be wholly by, or in the attempt to carry close reefed Square Sails, have been driven far to board out of the course, and received immense damage 

It is believed also that in military navel tactics, sails of this form might be found peculiarly serviceable to maneuver in the presence of an
Page 43

enemy, for a single clew at the obtuse angle, and even the bolt ropes might be so secured by Iron Chains of Suitable size and tenure, as greatly to diminish the hazard of being cut away or materially injured in a now engagement. 

Sails of this farm may likewise be employed in another way that may lead to very important results, viz. by being attached to a spare yard or other Spar, and then dropped overboard astern. Where either the spar of the clew might be secured to an outrigger, and the braces led forward outside of all, with weight of any kind attached to the lower part of the sail, so as to immerse it a proper death, and it will thus become a complete drag Sail, and may be found very useful on board of a vessel fitted for War, when it might be desirable to decoy an enemy that could not be otherwise come at; for with all the appearance of flying under a press of said, this contrivance would impede a ship progress through the water most astonishingly 

The same kind of sail may also, be advantagiously used to augment a Ship's way, When in a stream or tide way, it may be 
desirable to take away every advantage of the current; for being suspended overboard ahead of the Ship or vessel, the shut and braces may be so managed as very much to increase her speed. 

In the same position likewise this storm Sail may be very useful, if by stress of weather the vessel should be absolutely obliged to
Page 44

lay to, for it will naturally have a tendency to keep her head to the sea, and thus enable her to surmount waves, which without this precaution might break on her broadside, and submerge her past redemption.

Fourth. 
An improvement in the form and manner of rigging Sails for the use of boats, or crafts in rivers, bays, &c 

The general outline of these Sails is somewhat like that of a common jibs; the back and foot, however form an angle less than ninety degrees. The mast to support this sail should be about one third the length of the yard to which it is bent. A Strong eye-bolt is fixed outside of the Stem: the rope running through the tack-block upon the yard near its lower end, and passing through another block in or near the lower part of the mast, leads aft to the person who steers, where it is secured. The Sheet is fixed to the clue at the Junction of the foot rope with that of the after back, and passes from thence to a thimble or traveller, which traverses on a stretcher or horse stretched athwart the vessel near the Stern, then is rove through a block or thimble upon a double or Single Bridle, fixed on the after-leash of the sail, then it is brought down again to the  ring or traveller on the stretcher or horse before 
mentioned, where it is made fast. This sail is reefed to the yard when necessary, by letting to the tack, which allows the after part of the yard to fall
Page 45

down within reach of the person Steering; he has then to fill a line passing round the yard and through gruminetholes, or by points with which he ties the Sail up to the yard.  The back  of the sail may be hauled up to the yard by brails, as is usually done
When this sail is set with the tack and
Sheet perfectly flat aft, it will maintain its position in tacking, by reason of the sheet being made fast to the ring or traveller on the Stretches, or how near the afterpart of the boat or vessel as before described, the ring will traverse as the vessel goes about. 
The yard being of an elastic substance and form, and the principal portion of its length rising above the mast, it naturally yields to any sudden pressure of the wind, without endangering the vessel; because the points which sustain the greatest effort of the wind (that is at the stem most head and the stretcher abaft) are much nearer the body of the craft or vessel than in the former mode
of rigging boats of this description.
Another advantage that arises from this
improved mode of rigging and managing boats and craft, is that they may pass under Bridges & by only tipping or lowering the after or uper [upper] end of the yard; this cannot be done by vessels carrying the same extent of canvas and rigged in the Common mode, owing to the height of their masts and sails
One, two or more of these new fashioned
Page 46

Sails may be fixed to the same boat, as her length and burden may require 

Fifth. 
A mode of preserving from the dangers incident to a sudden and unexpected approach to an Island or coast, vessels that have been long out of sight of Land. An instrument invented by the undersigned has been found very useful for this purpose; the principle of the operation is not now in question, but only the mode of carrying it into effect; which may be thus specified,
viz. the machine consists of a Water-tight box, of a rectangular or other shape, of sufficient capacity to admit a small thermometer and to hold a pint or more water. One side of the Box is formed by a plate of clear glass of strength sufficient to withstand the external pressure of the Water through which it descends, through this glass, the height of the mercury in the thermometer may be readily distinguished. From the bottom of this machine another Box of less diameter and of a cylindrical or other form projects, and being perforated with one or more holes, readily admits the water to flow into it. Within this box and at the centre of the machine, enters a small Cylindrical rod of Brass, Copper or wood, having a shoulder near its foot or lower extremity, on which rests a plate of leather, beneath which is paced a strong spiral Spring which keeps this valve properly closed. Below the Shoulder, one end of a small lever is attached to the rod from the other end of the lever on the outside of the Box a pretty strong wire
Page 47

passes up to the top of the machine, through a projecting ear placed there as a point of support, and these terminates with a ring, to which a line denominated "a messenger," is attached. The Glass in front of the thermometer is covered by a guard of metal or wood, secured to the sole part of the box, so as to prevent any injury from striking against any substance, either in descending or hauling up, a small air valve is made in the Top of the Box that it may the more freely traverse the water and let it enter. 

When this machine is used, it is let down by a strong cord, say a Deep Sealine, which is fastened to the top of the box. When it has arrived at the requisite depth the Cord is slackened at the same time that one pulls on the messenger, which in it turns Sustains the weight of the machine, and by the agency of the lever before mentioned, to which it is attached, causes the leathern plate (which operates as a value over an aperture in the bottom of the cavity when the thermometer is placed) to recede, and thus fills the Box with the water of that depth; then letting to the messenger and hauling on the main cord, the aperture is again perfectly closed, by the force of the Spiral Spring, and the machine drawn up without permitting a drop of it to escape. An inspection of the thermometer should be made immediately, to see the Degree at which the mercury stands, and by comparing it with a table of the observations that have already been made and the result of the respective voyages where
Page 48

this method has been pursued, a tolerably accurate estimate may be formed of the distance from land 

Sixth. 
To paint a Ship's cabin or other wainscot  work - in marble or [illegible]tting prepare the work with White ground of any light ground - work, painted as fancy may direct. Then take any Colour that pleases you, ground dry and fine, mix it with strong vinegar, take a brush and lay on the mixture, then with a sponge or a sheep’s bladder well soaked in vinegar, or other absorbent substance, daub over the work, thus absorbing of a portion of the Colour unequally as fancy may dictate, taking can to have a basin of clear Vinegar ready to wash and being out the colouring matter attached to the absorber or Sponge, when the work will immediately dry; next cover it with a good court of Copal varnish, laid on three or four times in succession, as soon as they dry. This is considered by the undersigned a beautiful improvement for painting ship's cabins and other Wainscot work and fancy furniture generally. 
Benjamin Connor
Patentee

Witnesses
James M Varnum
Geo. Lyon
Page 49

Connor’s Patent 

The United States of America 
To all to whom these Letters Patent shall 
come: 
Whereas, Benjamin Connor, a citizen of the United States , hath alledged that he has invented a new and us ful improvement in the construction of Bridges, which improvement he states has not been known or used be for his application; has made oath, that he does verily believe that he is the true inventor or discoverer of the said improvement; has paid into the treasury of the United States the sum of thirty Dollars, delivered a receipt for the same, and presented a petition to the Secretary of State, signifying a desire to obtain and exclusive property in the said improvement, and praying that a patent may be granted for that purpose; these are therefore to grant, according to Law, to the said Benjamin Connor, his heirs, administrators, or assigns, for the term of fourteen years, from the twenty third day of April 1812, the full and exclusive right and liberty of making constructing, using and rending to others to be used, the said improvement; a discription whereof is given in the words of the said Benjamin Connor himself, in the Schedule hereto annexed, and is made a part of these presents 
In Testimony whereof, I have caused these letters to be made patent and the seal of the United States to be hereunto affixed.
Given under
Page 50

Given under my hand, at the City of April in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and twelve and of the Independence of the United States of America , the thirty sixth. James Madison 
By the President 
James Monroe 
Secretary of State 

City of Washington, to wit: 
I Do hereby certify, that the foregoing Letters Patent were delivered to me on the twenty third day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twelve, to be examined and that I have examined the same, and find them comfortable to law and I do hereby return the Same to the Secretary of State, within fifteen Days from the date aforesaid, to wit: - On this twenty third day of April, in the year aforesaid.
William Pinkney 
Attorney General of the United States
Page 51

Specification 

The Schedule refered to in these letters Patent, and making part of the same, containing a description in the words at the said of the said Benjamin Connor himself, of his improvement in the Constructing of bridges, &c. 

The improvements are, first, in the mode of 
sealing or joining the timbers or parts of which the ribs and bearers of the arch, girder, or beam is constructed, so as to throw the bearing in the direction of the timber, and to secure the Joint more effectually than heretofore. 

Second. 
The mode of carrying the ribs or bearers of a bridge or arch from one shore to the other shore of a river, or from pier to pier, or between any two support or abutments for these ribs, bearers, or girders. 

Third. 
The mode of forming bearers, ribs, &c. of many many pieces, by a long sap, or break-joint, stringtested by coges, trusses, or Dovetails, so that the principal timbers shall bear [endurse?]. This receive additional support from secondary bearers which extend nearly in the line of the tangent of the arch of the Principal bearer, from which they Join to the abutment on each side. 

Fourth. 
The mode of forming the rents of an arch for a bridge, &c of pieces of timber butting endways on each other, without scarf or sap, and strengthened by secondary bearers in tangent lines to each abutment 

Fifth. 
The mode of supporting or stiffening the
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ribed arches of bridges, and preventing tremor by an incumbent counter-arch or rib, resting on the principal rib or bearer. 

Sixth, 
The mode of forming the flooring timbers between the ribs, and sending them from one side as they are put together. 

Seventh. 
An improved ice-breaker, to prevent injury to piers or abutments of Bridges, or other buildings, in the water or on the shores of Rivers 

Eighth. 
A mode of constructing the arches of Wooden budges, by connecting the timbers so as to bear endwise, and be secured in their positions by Cross-locking with each other 

Ninth. 
A mode of making the piers and abutments of Bridges with greater ease than heretofore, and so fortifying them as to protect the bridge. In the piers to the bridges, batteries may be placed so as to defend them, and there may be covered, and be composed of stone, brick, or rather of wood placed endways, which will be more sold, and Occasion few, if any splinters: and this last I consider as a very great improvement in the construction of fort and batteries generally 

And Tenth. 
A balance draw for floating and raised bridges. These I particularly describe in the following manner, to wit:

First.
Of the mode of scarfing timbers to be used in bridges, girders, arches and centres to
Page 53

to throw the bearings in the Direction of of the length of timber. This scarfing or joint I term the hand-in- hand Scarf.    The length of the                                                                                                                                                     proposed scarf or splice is divided into three parts, the middle part of which is sawed down about half the thickness of the Timber, in lines of the radii of Arch formed by the principal bearers, and part taken out for half the thickness of the timber. So that two pieces being cut in a similar manner from the opposite Sides will join together, and the Ends bear against each other, the remaining two thirds of the Scarf are formed to extend length wise of the Timber at the Top so as to bolt down and secure the whole together more firmly. These extending party may be added or omitted as 
circumstances or security shall dictate. Of the Scarf may be made so that each piece shall have a corresponding indentation and a projection to this giving a double lap and bearing, but without the upper extending part - 

Second. 
My Second improvement is in the mode of carrying the ribs, girders, bearer from one Support or abutment or pier to another, by the aid of Shears or triangles, either supported from floating vessels or on carriages moving On rollers or placed in fixed positions. As the rib is forced or drawn along, it is elevated by the aid of blocks, &c, one end may be borne by the vessel or carriage, whilst other vessels or carriages with the Shears or triangles support the ribs in the line of direction required, and the whole elevated
Page 54

to its proper place 

Third. 
My third improvement is in the mode of forming ribs, &c. by a long lap or breakjoint, strengthened by Cogs, and secondary bearers. The rib so constructed consists of two or more pieces, which are placed by the side of each other to form an entire rib, and they may have [paths?] be tween them to allow a passage for the air as a preventative against rot. The joints of these pieces are in lines of the Radii of the Arch, so that their bearing shall be lengthwise of the timber. The Joints of the pieces on each side to break alternately. 
Immediately along each Joint is a Joggle or notch which receives the end of a secondary brace or bearer, that extends from thence with nearly the line of the Tangent of the arch to the nearest abutment or pier, and these lines occurring, Alternately in each side-piece of the bearer, half of the Secondary bearer will stop at the notch, whilst the other half extends until it range at the top of the bearer. Two, three or more of these Secondary bearers will be 
introduced from Each abutment according to the Span of the arch and the number of pieces of which the rib is composed. They will strengthen the Arch or rib whilst they raise the floor of the bridge to the requisite height for a commodious passage over it. These secondary bearers are supported from each other at the required distance by perpendicular props or supports, extending from the rib or by the ends of the trans
Page 55

-verse timbers, which connect the several ribs of which the bridge is composed 

Fourth. 
Another of my improvements is in composing the principal will of a bridge or arch, of a number  of pieces butting against each other with the ends, where the joint is in the line of the radii of the arch, the end of each piece rising so high above the other which is near to the abutment as to have a projection, against which secondary braces, of the foregoing, description, extending to the pier, may be made to abut and press, adding strength and security to the Bridge 

Fifth 
Arches of great extent being apt to rebound and shake, from the excessive percussion upon them as travelled over, my next improvement is to add a reacting arch or rib, with the back or curve downwards, which, whilst it strengthens the bridge, takes off all tremor or shake. Above the main ribs of the bridge I have others reversed with the arch downwards, connected at the ends with the side Plates or ribs that support the roof, and which may be either horizontal or have a curve corresponding to that of the principal bearers. These several ribs are connected together by vertical braces that rise in the line of the radii of the lower bearer or arch, so that they are kept in their true positions with regard to each other. This both strengthens the arch and prevents every part from vibrating.

 Sixth. 
My next improvement is in the mode
Page 56

of Sending over the flooring timber from one side, so soon as any two rils are ready to receive them. A groove or [chanipel?] may be formed on the upper and inner edge of each of the two ribs or bearers, along which the framing of the floor is slid in such succession as fast as prepared and put together, with the necessary cross pieces, either to hold bearing planks or Joists lengthwise, across which the travelling plank is to be laid; or, instead of the groves above mentioned, the flooring timber may be slid along on the top of the ribs, being kept in its proper place by the back of the Counter- arch and the connecting braces.

Seventh. 
The improved Ice breaker is a strong beam or piece of Timber extending from the Top of a Pier, or from the bearer of the bridge, or wherever Wanted, so as to enter the water with any angle from twenty to forty five degrees, according to circumstances  . This beam has its Sharp edge uppermost, and spreads out beneath, so that as the Ice rises upon it breaks over the edge by its own weight, and passes off. To Strengthen it there may be a vertical wall or framework of Wood, rising underneath and extending from the pier for any thing floating. 

Eighth. 
My improvement in the constructing of bridges by what I term cross locking, is in laying the pieces cross each other, so as to have their ends resting on transverse pieces, that lay on the middle of the next set. In this way, arches or Bridges of any length may be formed in a little
Page 57

time, and at a small expense, highly useful the transportation of armies, and where permanence is no so much an object as the facility and economy of construction. 

Ninth. 
The improvements in the construction of piers and abutments is in erecting them with a Wall in the centre, by which all the materials for erecting them can be drawn by a wheel and axis, placed on the Top of the Wall and raised as the process of Walling progresses. These  may be finished bomb proof, with Portholes Or embrasures, from which heavy Cannon may be discharged, to defend the passage of the bridge against any attempts to force it 

Tenth. 
The next improvement which I Specify and described is the balanced Draw, to be used either in elevated bridges or in floating bridges. This draw turns on pivots, and extends nearly equally above and below the travelling path when raised, having an arm extended from the upper or lower surface, to give the necessary purchase in the first instance. It is worked in a simular manner to the working a ship's rudder, by ropes or chains, and so that as one part is extended, the other is Drawn in.
Benjamin Connor 
Patentee -

Witnesses present} 
William Thornton} 
Geo. Lyon}
Page 58

Report of the Secretary of War to the House of Representatives on the subject of Benjamin Conner's newly invented Bridges 

War Department} 
February 23, 1813.} 

Sir - Mr Benjamin Conner has submitted to my inspection models of Bridges, which, from the simplicity of their structure, the cheapness of their materials, and the force of the mechanical power employed in them (the lever and arch combined) are in my opinion well calculated for military purposes. I have the honor therefore respectfully to report, conformable to the order of the honorable the House of Representatives of the 11th inst. referring to this department the petition of Benjamin Conner, that the right to make and to use bridges made after these models, and the models themselves, should be purchased from Mr Conner The petition and documents are herewith returned. 
I have the honor, &c 
John Armstrong 

The Hon. the Speaker of the 
House of Representatives of the United States
Page 59

22nd Congress 1st Session

H.R, 157

As amended and reported from the Committee of the Whole House on the 12th April 1832.

NOTE: The parts within brackets were stricken out by the committee of the Whole and the parts in italics are insertions.

A BILL

In addition to an and entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war" approved March eighteen, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, that each of the surviving officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates and persons who belonged to the Ordnance, Quartermaster's, Wagon master's, Paymaster's, Commissary's or Hospital Departments or Medical Staff who served in the war of the revolution on the continental establishment or in the Vermont line of military forces of Vermont, or in the militia or state troops or as volunteers and who continued therein at one or more terms of service for a period of nine months or more upon proof thereof to be made to the Secretary of War as hereinafter provided shall be entitled to receive during his natural live a pension according to the provisions of the act mentioned in the title of this bill.

Sec. 2 - And be it further enacted that each of the persons provided for respectively in the preceding section of this act who shall have served as therein mentioned for any term
Page 60

2

less than nine months under one or more enlistments and not less than [six] three months upon proof thereof to be made to the Secretary of War as hereinafter provided shall be entitled to receive during his natural live a pension according to the provisions of the act of congress mentioned in the title of this bill in such proportion only as the term of his service bears to the term of nine months. And that so much of the act to which this is an addition, which provides that the applicant by reason of his reduced circumstances shall be in need of assistance from his county for support and the act entitled "An act in addition to an act entitled "an act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war" passed the eighteenth day of March, one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, be and the same are hereby repealed.

Sec. 3 And it be further enacted, that each of the surviving officers [non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates] of the army of the revolution who shall have served in the continental line, state troops, volunteers or militia, at one or more terms, a period of [two] three years or more during the war of the revolution, upon proof thereof to be made to the secretary of war as hereinafter provided shall be entitled to receive during this natural life a pension equal to the amount of his full pay in the said line according to his rank but not to exceed in any case the pay of a captain in the said line.
Page 61

1    SEC. 4. And be it further enacted, That the officers, non- 
2  commissioned officers, musicians, mariners, or marines, who 
3  served in the naval service of the United States, or of the  
4  respective States, during the revolutionary war, shall be entitled 
5  to the benefits of this act, in the same manner, and subject to 
6  all the provisions which are herein respectively contained in 
7  relation to the officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians,
8  and privates of the army. 

1.  SEC. 5. And be it further enacted, That if any person 
2  embraced in the provisions of this act shall, after the com- 
3  commencement of, and during his term of service in the war of
4  the revolution, have been taken captive, the time such person 
5  may have been so detained in captivity shall be computed in 
6   determining the length of his said service. 

1.  SEC. 6. And be it further enacted, That the pensions 
2  which may be hereafter granted and allowed by this act, shall, 
3  under the direction of the Secretary of War, be paid to the 
4  person entitled thereto, or his or their authorized attorney, at 
5  such places and times as the Secretary of War may direct; no 
6. person shall be entitled to the benefit of this act, unless he be 
7  a citizen of the United States; and the pensions granted by this 
8  act shall not be in any way transferable, as liable to 
9. attachment , levy, or seizure, by any legal process whatever, but shall 
10  inure wholly to the benefit of the person entitled to the same.
Page 62

4

Sec. 7. And be it further enacted that in the case of the death of any person embraced in the provisions of this act, after the same shall have been approved, and before the first term of payment shall have arrived, the amount of pay which shall be due to such person shall be paid to his widow, and if he leave no widow, to his children, and if he leave no widow or children, then to his legal representative; and in case of the death of any person embraced by the provisions of this act during the period intervening between the semi-annual payments, the proportionate amount of pay which shall have accrued between the last preceding semi-annual payment and the death of such persons, shall be paid to his widow and if he leave no widow to his children, and if he leave no widow or children, to his legal representative, in the same manner and under the same regulations as are now practiced in paying pensions under the act [mentioned in the title to this bill] to which this is an addition.

Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, that the pensions which may be hereafter granted by virtue of this act shall commence on the [first] fourth day of [January] March one thousand eight hundred and thirty; Provided, that no person or persons other than invalid pensioners now receiving a pension under any law of the United states shall be entitled to the benefit of this act unless he or they shall first relinquish his or their further claim to any such pension: And provided fur-
Page 63

5

further, that in all payments under this act the amount which may have been received by any pensioner other than an invalid pensioner under any other pension act as aforesaid since the date at which the payments under this act shall commence, shall first be deducted from said payments.

[Sec.9 And be it further enacted that to entitle any person to the benefit of this act he shall make a declaration under oath or affirmation before the district judge of the United States in the district or before any judge or court of record of the county, state, or territory in which the applicant shall reside setting forth, if he belong to the army, the company, regiment, and line to which he belonged, the time he entered and left the service; and in case he belonged to the navy, a like declaration setting forth the name of the vessel in which he was employed, and the time of entering and leaving the service; and shall offer such other evidence as may be in his power; and if it shall be made to appear to the satisfaction of the said judge or court, that the applicant served in the war of the revolution as is herein before mentioned; and in all the cases where the evidence is satisfactory a certified copy of the testimony in such cases shall be transmitted to the secretary of war, with a certificate under the seal of the court, that the declaration of the applicant, in the opinion of the judge or court, is true; and which certificate shall be considered conclusive as to the truth of the facts set forth in the declaration .]
Page 64

6

Entire page in italics.

Sec. 9 And be it further enacted, that to entitle any person except as is herein after mentioned, to a pension by virtue of this act, he shall make a declaration under oath or affirmation before the district judge of the United States in the district, or before a court of record of the county, State or Territory in which he shall reside, setting forth if he belonged to the army, the company, regiment and line to which he belonged, together with the time of his entering and leaving the service; and if he belonged to the navy, a like declaration, setting forth the name of the vessel in which he was employed, with the time of entering and leaving the service, and shall offer such other evidence as he made be able to produce; and if it shall appear to the satisfaction of the said judge or court by the said testimony, that the facts set forth in the said declaration; Provided always, that no person shall be entitled to a pension by virtue of this act where there is no other evidence furnished than the affidavit or declaration under oath, herein before required to be made by the applicant himself, nor where the records in the war department shall contradict the statement contained in the said declaration.
Page 65

7

Entire page in italics.

Sec. 10 And be it further enacted, that all persons who were placed on the list of revolutionary pensions under the act of May eighteen, eighteen hundred and eighteen, and who have been stricken from said list under the provisions of the act of May first, eighteen hundred and twenty, on application to the Secretary of war, and on proof of their identity, shall be restored by the said secretary to said list, without said persons being required to comply with the ninth section of this act; the payment in all such cases to commence on the first day of January one thousand eight hundred and thirty.
Page 66

Number of Copy 6; 7th June 
Ships - US
Live Oak
Page 67

1108-2 ½ to 6 inches refuse white oak plank
146 cubic feet refuse live oak timber 
102 - Do     “.   “.            “
204 - Planed Carlins 
244  - pieces live oak timber for carlins, staunchins &c
3604  cubic feet pine timber 
5 pieces for bowsprits &c 
4      “.    for yards
2 Bilge ways 126 feet each 
32,563 locust tree nails 
13 pieces refuse launching ways 
50 spruce spars
9.      “.    Poles
Page 68

Some time after the Peace of 1783, Congress determined to build Six 74 gun ship. The timber be to be procured from Georgia. All the timber was cut, and brought and landed in the docks, 


Instructions were given to Josiah Fox, Naval Constructor on the 26th August, 1805. to request Daniel Bedinger, Norfolk, George Harrison, at Philadelphia: John Beckman, at New York , Samuel Brown, at Boston, and to Henry S Landon, at Portsmouth N.  H.


To make a return to him of all the timber  deported in the yards, respectively under their case, & and Mr Fox was to make his report to the Secretary of the Navy.
Page 69

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES
Form VAM-51 
12 - 5 - 41 

BOUNTY LAND WARRANT RECORD CARD* 

Division of Veterans' Administration Archives 

Name__ Conner, Charles 
Grade__Private 
Line_____Pennsylvania 


WARRANT NUMBER __ 9110 
Acreage____100
Isssued__July 16, 1789 
to____ not shown- 

The information concerning the issuance of warrants carded on this form is found in volumes 2 to 4 of ""Land Warrants Issued Prior to 1800"" which are registers of bounty land warrants issued to non-commissioned officers and privates under congressional resolutions of September 16, 1776, and subsequent dates. Other records relative to the applications for warrants appear to have been destroyed in the War Department fire of November 9, 1800. Information concerning warrants surrendered to the Federal Government is to be found in General Land Office records in The National Archives.