Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 6,727, Thomas Cotton, N.C.
Page 1

(3-1776)
Service
N.C.
Cotton, Thomas 
or 
Cotton
Priscilla
Number
W.6727

This Envelope Includes
Final Payment Voucher
[?719]
Received from GAO
Page 2

424
Tennessee Nashville
Priscilla Cotton widow Thomas cotton
Who died on the 5 June 17th
of Sumner Co in the State of Tennessee 
who was a Captain in the [blank] commanded 
by Captain [blank]  of the [blank]  commanded
by  [blank]   in the N.C.
line for 2 years

Inscribed on the Roll of Nashville
at the rate of 480 Dollars 00 cents
per annum, to commence on the 4th day of
March, 1831 endy Nov 7 1843

Certificate of Pension issued the 11th day of 
September 1857 and sent to 
Joseph Bryan

Arrears to the 4th of 
Semi annual allowance ending        Present

Incrd from $200
Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1826 Section the 3rd
[remainder torn off and or illegible]
Page 3

Page 1

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County }  SS
  On this the 29th day of June eighteen Hundred and forty personally appeared before me Richard D. Hobdy an acting justice of the peace of the county court of Sumner county being a court of record of said county and state  Priscilla Cotton a resident of the county and state aforesaid aged ninty[ninety]  three years 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 4th 183. That she is the widow of Thomas Cotton who was a captain in the Revolutionary war and served the United States as such and his commission appointing him Captain dated the 4th May 1780 Requested by A Nash Governor and commander in Chief of North Carolina is [illegible] reffered to and accompanies this declaration. That Commission was reclaimed by her husband Thos Cotton late his death which happened about forty four years ago and has since been reclaimed amongst his papers from that time to the present. She further declares in consequence of her great age and feeble condition she has not a distinct recollection of the incidents of the revolution and the length of time of the service of her husband Thos Cotton. She married Thos. Cotton in the year 172. She distinctly recollects that he was [illegible]
Page 4

page 2

Captain of the company and they marched the next day –– commanded by her said husband. She sees by the commission that he and his company were attached and belonged to the Hereford Regiment– They first marched to Wilmington. in the State of North Carolina, that she can not recollect who the General nor that commanders of the said Company – That her husband Thomas Cotton was taken prisoner by the British and was retained by then as a prisoner of war for the period of seven months – That he served by land three months previous to his being taken prisoner  – completing a service of the said Thos Cotton to the United States of ten months – of actual service– How long in addition to this service the said Thomas Cotton held himself and company in readiness to repell invasion and done services on the county of Wastford in which they resided She can not  distinctly recollect but believes that he continued to do service as a captain till the close of the war. She distinctly recollects on one occasion that he [illegible] five hundred from the government as pay – she further declares that she further declares that she was married to the said Thomas Cotton in the year 179 in the summer of that year but can not recollect the month. that a in the year of seventeen hundred and sixty nine that her husband the said Thomas Cotton died on the fifth day of June seventeen hundred and ninety five and that she has remained a widow ever since that period.
Page 5

Page 3

as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above Witness before me
 [signed] Percilla her X mark Cotton

Test Richard D. Hobday Justice of the peace for the county court of Sumner county Isaac Walton a citizen of Sumner County State of Tennessee  next appeared before me the said Richard Hobdy a justice of the county court aforesaid and after being legally sworn deposed and say_ that he is seventy six years old the 1st day of February  last that he became acquainted with Capt Thos Cotton and his wife Percilla Cotton in the year seventeen hundred and eighty three in Hertford County State of North Carolina that they had been recorded some years previous that they had then some six or seven children, The said Thomas Cotton had been a revolutionary soldier and had served as Captain, from his general reputation in his neighborhood and that he had been taken prisoner by the British and released as such for some considerable time, George Perry who has since died was taken prisoner with him. The Deponent never witnessed a death but the said Thomas Cotton did serve as a Captain in the Revolutionary War and was taken prisoner by the enemy from repeated conversations with the said Thomas Cotton and George Perry and their neighbors  in Hartford county North Carolina. The deponent moved to Sumner county Tennessee in the
Page 6

page 4

1786 and Capt Thos Cotten and his wife Percilla who is now applying for a pension moved to said county of Sumner in 1794 where they lived together as man and wife till the said Thos. Cottons death in June in the year seventeen hundred and ninety five- and the said Percilla Cotton has remained a widow ever since that period I was appointed one of the executors of the said Thomas Cotton by heirs and [inkblot made illegible] as such and found the enclosed commission appointing the said Thos. Cotton. Captain in the revolutionary war amongst her papers and it has been so aclaimed ever since. The deponent further states that the said Percilla Cotton and Thomas Cotton had the following children on the 5th June 1795- under sixteen years at the death of the said Thomas Cotton. to wit- John Cotton , Noah Cotton and Arthur Cotton who yet resides in the county of Sumner Tennessee and Allen Cotton who resides in Davidson County Tennessee and Alexander Cotton and Sally Cotton both of whom resided in Sumner county and in said county died. The [illegible] on of their children [illegible] he [illegible] over sixteen years in June 1795 are Mary Foxall- who resides in Sumner County- she is seventy years old- Moore Cotton who died in Sumner County in the year 1836 of living at the time he would be sixty eight years old. Betsy Cotton an infant when she died was about seventy  years old- she has been dead upwards of fifty six years- and Talitha Orr
Page 7

page 5

who resides in the state of Illinois- she is sixty two years of age- This deponent further states that he was personally acquainted with Capt Thos Cotton and his wife Percilla Cotton. That each of their chracters is good that the said Percilla is  entitled to credit on her oath- That she has since 1795 resided and still resides in the county of Sumner. The deponant  further states from all the information that he obtained in the state of North Carolina from 1783. up to the time he moved from there in 1786 that the said Thos Cotton served as a Captain including the time he was taken prisoner from the date  of his commission till the close of the War in 1783. Deponant had a brother Wm. Walton who is now dead who served during the war and he understood from him that Capt. Thos Cotton the husband of the said Percilla that the said Cotton served during the war as well as from other sources that he obtained that information- Sworn to and subscribed before me on 29th June 1840  [signed] Isaac Walton
test. Richard. D. Hobday 
Justice of the peace of the county court of Sumner.
Mary Gambling aged seventy seven years next appeared and after being duly sworn according to law deposeth and saith- that she was living in Hartford County North Carolina in 1780. and she states that she was frequently at the house of Thos. Cotton during the time
Page 8

page 6

In the said Cotton was absent from home in the service of the United States as a Captain He was gone in the service for some considerable time . He was taken prisoner and was retain by the enemy for a considerable time How long she does not recollect- she further states that Percilla Cotton who is now applying for a pension was the wife of the said Thomas at that time that they had been married from some ten or eleven years previous- and had she recollects the following children Mary Foxall Moore Cotton Betsey Cotton and Tabitha Cotton. The said Thomas Cotton died in the county of Sumner Tennessee in June seventeen hundred and ninety five. That the said Percilla Cotton is his widow and has so remained his widow since. That period she has believe resided in Sumner county since. The statement of Isaac Walton was taken to the age and residence of the children of the said Thomas Cotton and Percilla Cotton has been read over to her and she adapts and makes that statement her own, she further states that the statement of Percilla Cotton is good and her statements and oath is entitled to full faith and credit. Sworn to and subscribed before me This 29th June 1840
Test   Richard D. Hobday Justice of the Peace of the county court of Sumner County    [signed] Mary X Gambling (her mark)
Page 9

Page 7

John Cryor next appeared aged seventeen years on 6th July 1840. And after being legally sworn deposeth and saith That he became acquainted with Thomas Cotton on the road moving to Sumner County in the year 1791 and he was well acquainted with George Perry referred to in the statement of Isaac Walton and that he frequently heard the said Thomas Cotton and the said George Perry say that they both were taken prisoners while in the service of the United States by the British .- and that they were retained as such for some considerable time- Deponant states that he does not entertain a doubt but the said Thomas Cotton did serve the United States as a Captain in the Revolutionary war- That the said Thomas Cotton died in June 1795. leaving the said Percilla Cotton his widow and that she has so remained from that period- and resided in Sumner County since. He further adapts the statement of Isaac Walton about the children of the said Thos Cotton and Percilla Cotton as well as the statement about the [illegible] of the said Thomas Cotton _ Percilla Cotton is aged ninety three years.  Sworn to and subscribed before me this 29th June 1840.        [signed] John Cryer
test.  Richard D. Hobday Justice of the Peace of the county court of Sumner county.
Page 10

Page 8

Percilla Cotton aged ninety three years after being legally sworn in deposeth and saith That the statement of Isaac Walton Esq in relation to the number and age of her children and how old they were in June 1795. and where they reside was read over to her and the home is correct and she adopts it as her own. She further states that she was married to the said Thomas Cotton in the year seventeen hundred and sixty nine in Hartford County state of North Carolina  by a minister of the Gospel what his name was she cannot recollect she recollects that the preached in St John's Chapel the day he married them- Sworn to and subscribed before me this 29th June 1840.          
Test  [signed] Percilla X Cotton (her mark)
   Richard D. Hobday  Justice of the Peace of the county court of Sumner County

Elizabeth Daniel aged eighty eighty eyars next- appeared before me a justice of the peace as aforesaid and after being legally sworn deposeth and saith- That she lived some five miles of Thomas Cotton and his wife Percilla Cotton in Hertford County North Carolina during the revolutionary war. That she was a single woman at the time
Page 11

Page 9

of the marriage of the said Thomas Cotton with said Percilla Cotton- That she was present at said marriage and she saw Parson Curly marry the said Thomas Cotton and the said Percilla Cotton which was in the year of seventeen hundred and sixty eight or sixty nine. She is not positive which year- but is certain it was one or the other of the years mentioned That she distinctly recollects of the said Thomas Cotton, being a Captain and serving as a Captain in the revolutionary war- He marched his company away in the year seventeen hundred and eighty. she had a brother by name of Jessee Knite who was a solder in the said Thomas Cottons company and served in the war under him.- The said Captain Thomas Cotton while serving as Captain in the United States service was taken prisoner by the British and retained by them prisoner for the space of seven months- how long he served by land before he was taken prisoner she does not recollect to how [illegible], but thinks about three months- The deponant does not recollect that the said Thomas Cotton was discharged from the service of the United States previous to the close of the war. The deponant further states that Percilla Cotton who is now applying for a pension is the identical Percilla Cotton who married the said Thomas Cotton who served as a Captain in the revolutionary
Page 12

page 10

war and that she is the widow of the said Thomas Cotton and that she has not married since the death of the said Thomas Cotton. [signed] Sworn to and subscribed before me this 29th June 1840. 
test  Elizabeth her X mark Daniel
Richard D. Hobday Justice of the peace of the county court of Sumner County

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County } SS
I Richard D. Hobday a commissioned justice of the peace for the county and State aforesaid and one of the justices of the county court of Sumner County the said court being a court of record for said county and state do certify that the foregoing declaration of Percilla Cotton for a pension under the act of congress of the 4th July 1836 was taken subscribed and sworn to before me by the said Percilla cotton on the 29th day of June 1840- and I further certify that the said Percilla Cotton is extremely old being about ninety three years of age and from disease and bodily infirmity of the said Percilla Cotton she was unable to attend court of the purpose of making the aforesaid declaration, and I the said Richard D. Hobday JP do further certify and declare my opinion to be after the investigation of the matter and after puting [putting] the interrogatories prescribed by the war Department that the above named Thomas Cotton was a revolutionary soldier and served as his said widow Percilla Cotton States- And I the said Richard D. Hobday JP as afaoresaid do further certify that Isaac
Page 13

page 11

Walton, Mary Gambling, John Cryer and Elizabeth Daniel subscribed and swore to the foregoing certificates to which their names are  affixed, That they are all residents in the county of Sumner and witnesses of good character and their statements are entitled to credit And I do further certify that the original commission approving Thomas Cotton a Captain in the revolutionary war dated on 4th day of May 1780. The same spoken of by the witnesses Isaac Walton Esq and Mrs Percilla Cotton is hereto attached to these proceedings by a ribon [ribbon] sealed  And that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Justice of the Peace Richard D. Hobday in the matter of the application of the widow Percilla Cotton for a pension
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 29th day of June AD 1840.
Richard. D. Hobday Justice of the peace for said State and County and of of the county court of Sumner County

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County  }  SS
I Andrew McGlothlin clerk of the County Court of Sumner County the said Court being a court of of Record for the said State and County do certify that Richard D. Hobday whose name is affixed to the foregoing certificate and proceedings was at the time of his signature and now is an acting Justice of the peace for said Cunty and a Justice of said County Court duly commissioned by the Governor of this State and qualified as such as appears by the Records of the said
Page 14

page 12

County court of Sumner and that his said signature [illegible- covered by seal] is his genuine signature.
In testimony of all which I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at office in Gallatin this 30th day of June 1840. and 6th Year of  American Independence 
     Andrew McGlothlin Clerk of Sumner County Court
Page 15

512 VV
Percilla Cotton
Widow of Thomas
Tenn
Act 4 July 1836

5121  Admd
10 mo Capt
200$ to 1 Nov
43- the day of her death
To Josiah Walton
Adm for the sole use of John Arthur Noah 
and Allen Cotton- and
Polly Foxall only surviving children

A Ferguson
Carthage 
Ten:
Page 16

Declaration of 
Allen Cotton Adm. 
of  
Priscilla Cotton Decd

Smith and Jones
Attorney
Nashville Tenn.
Joseph Bryson
[illegible]
[illegible]
Page 17

State of Tennessee 
County of Davidson  }  SS
On this 15th day of April AD 1856 personally appeared before me Thomas Maney, Judge of the 6th Judicial Circuit, of the State of Tennessee, Allen Cotton, Administrator of Priscilla Cotton dec,d, and made oath in due form of law, that he is the Administrator of said Priscilla Cotton, who was the widow of Thomas Cotton deceased, who was a Captain in the North Carolina Line Army of the Revolution, and who died in Sumner County, Tennessee, many years ago, that he left a widow, Priscilla Cotton aforesaid, who survived him until on or about the 1st day of November A.D. 1843, when she died, that since her death an application was made by her then surviving children, through her (then) Administrator Josiah Walton, for a pension which was allowed, and a Certificate of Pension was issued in her name, under Act of Congress of July 4th 1836, at the rate of Two Hundred Dollars per annum, said Pension commencing on the 4th day of March AD 1831, and terminating on the 1st day of November AD 1843, being the day of her death, (as declarant believes), That Declarant is informed, and believes, that the amount then allowed, was not as much as they were entitled to underthe aforesaid Act of Jly 4th 1836, and that he makes this Declaration for the purpose of obtaining an Increase of Pension under that Act, Declarant having always understood from his mother, Priscilla Cotton aforesaid, that her husband, the aforesaid Thomas Cotton, served as a Captain for several years during the Revolutionary war, but declarant cannot of course state the precise duration of his service, That at the time, that the above mentioned application for Pension was made, the then surviving children of the said Thomas, and Priscilla Cotton, were all properly identified, and that, as Declarant supposes, the proofs of their identity is now on file, in the Pension office, at Washington City, together with the proof of the marriage of the said Thomas, and Priscilla Cotton, all of which papers, Declarant believes, were forwarded by A. Fergusson Esq. 
(and)
Page 18

and to which Declarant refers, and that since the allowance of the aforementioned Pension of Two Hundred Dollars, per annum, all of the then surviving children of the said Thomas, and Priscilla Cotton dec.d, have died, except two, namely, Noah Cotton, now aged about sixty six years, as he believes, and who resides in Sumner County Tennessee, and Declarant himself, Allen Cotton, who now resides in Davidson County, Tennessee, aged, (as well as Declarant recollects, from the best information he has) about seventy years, on the 12th day of March last: Declarant therefore requests the claim be again taken up and examined and the said children surviving, of the said Thomas and Priscilla Cotton be allowed an Increase of Pension, to which, as Declarant believes, they are justly entitled, amounting, as Declarant believes, to Two Hundred and eighty dollars per annum more than was allowed on the former application before referred to.  [signed] Allen Cotton Amin of Precilly Cotton Deced.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year, above written, Before me. 
Tho. Maney Judge of 6th Judicial. Circuit Tenn.

It is hereby certified that satisfactory proof has been exhibited before me Thomas Maney Judge of the sixth Judicial Circuit of the State of Tennessee, (The court of which is a court of record for said State) and did prove to my satisfaction, that a Pension of Two Hundred Dollars per annum under Act of July 4th 1836, was allowed to the surviving children of Priscilla Cotton decd widow of Thomas Cotton decd a late Captain in the Revolutionary War, that since said Pension was allowed, all of the then surviving children of the said Thomas, and Priscilla cotton, have died except Noah Cotton, and Allen Cotton, the above named Declarant, and who is the Administrator of the said Priscilla Cotton decd duly qualifed as such according to law, In testimony where of I have hereto set my hand this 15th day of April A.D. 1851.  
Tho. Maney Judge of 6th Judicial. Circuit, Tennessee.
Page 19

State of Tennessee Davidson county Court April [illegible] 1851
Ordered by the Court, that Allen Cotton have letters of Administration granted him on the estate of Priscilla Cotton decdTherefore the said Allen Cotton in Court began bond in he form of Five Hundred dollars, with Jno. B. Murry and R H Thomas his securities and qualified according to law.
F R Cheatham clerk of the County Court of said County, do hereby certify that the foregoing order is a true copy from the records of my office. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at office in Nashville This 10th day of April 1851 
F R Cheatham Clerk
Page 20

Nashville Tennessee 
April 15, 1851
Know all men by the presents , That I Allen Cotton of Davidson County, Tennessee Administrator (and one of the heirs of) Priscilla Cotton deceased do hereby constitute and appoint irrevocably Smith and Jones of the City of Nashville and State of Tennessee, for me, and in my name to present and prosecute, as my attorneys in fact, a certain claim for an Increase of Pension due from the United States to the surviving children of Priscilla Cotton decd aforesaid, Widow of Thomas Cotton deceased, who was a Captain in the North Carolina Line of the Army of the Revolution, In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and seal the day and year above written. [signed] Allen Cotton
Acknowledged before me this 15 day of April 1851. 
Thos Maney Judge of 6th Jud. Circuit, Tenn
Page 21

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County  }  SS
Know all men by these presents, That I , Noah Cotton of Sumner County Tennessee, one of the surviving children and heirs at law of Priscilla Cotton decd do hereby constitute and appoint Smith and Jones of Nashville, Tennessee my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name to prosecute a certain claim for Increase of Pension due the surviving children of the said Priscilla Cotton decd whose name was inscribed on the Pension Roll of the Nashville Tennessee Agency under Act of July 4, 1836, at the rate of Two Hundred dollars per annum, hereby revoking all and every power of attorney heretofore made by me to any and every person whatever , at any former period, and hereby ratifying all the lawful acts of said attorneys Smith and Jones in the previous in as full and ample a manner as if I were present, and acting in person, and I do hereby authorize and request the Commissioner of pensions at Washington City to deliver to the said Smith and Jones or either of them, the Certificate of Pension (which may be allowed) and to no one else.  Witness my hand and seal this 6th Day of July AD 1851  
Noah Cotton
Signed sealed and delivered in presence of 
Geo W. Allen  
N. D Smith
Acknowledged before me this [illegible] day of July 1851.
Wm Solomon

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County }
I , John L. Bugg Clerk of the County Court of Sumner County, State of Tennessee do hereby certify
Page 22

that William Solomon, whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing acknowledgement of Power of Attorney is and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County and state, duly elected commissioned and qualified as such according to law.
In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at office in Gallatin This say of July 1851.  John L Bugg Clerk
Page 23

State of Tennessee Sumner County
On this day personally appeared in open court Josiah Walton Administrator of Pricilla Cotton deceased who being duly sworn according to law makes the following declaration in order to obtain the amount of  pension due the loyal heirs and children of the said Pricilla Cotton under Act of 4th July 1836 Section 3d entitled an act granting pension to the certain widows [illegible] declarant  states that said Pricilla Cotton in her lifetime made application for a pension and furnished such proof as she was able to do and gave and alledged [alleged] such information as her decayed memory enabled her to do but by a mistake in her declaration as this Declarant has been informed and believes, she only gave alledged [alleged] services of her husband as a Captain say about nine or ten months and although a commission was filed showing his grade as a Captain yet the period of service could not be ascertained and the claim was suspended and during the suspension of the claim she died. The claim was then placed in teh hands of A. Fergusson of Carthage Tennessee who procured the certificate of the Comptroller General of North Carolina showing that about two hundred and nineteen or twenty pounds were paid to her husband Captain Cotton for military service as a Captain in the Revolutionary War which agreeable to the usual computation of services would as  Declarant is informed establish that the period of Captain Cottons Services to be more than two years which would entitle his widow to a full pension at teh rate of four hundred and eighty dollars per annum Yet ownign to the mistake above mentioned of not alledging [alleging] the full period of
Page 24

of Service and owing particularly to the rigid and arbitrary rules adopted by Mr. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions in refusing the attorney A Fergusson while at Washington City in June 1845 to examine the papers and have the mistake corrected and the original Declaration amended so as to do Justice a Pension was allowed falling short and below the one half what ought to be allowed and which was clearly and satisfactorily proved by record and Documentary evidence and although the attorney [illegible] at the allowance and insisted upon a full pension yet it was refuted and the mistake on which the commissioner acted withheld from the attorney at the time. In the mean time the attorney A Fergusson accepted the amount for the heirs of Mrs. Cotton upon the express condition that the same should not be a final settlement or preclude the heirs from receiving their claim at any time for what should be Justly due them. Said attorney never lost sight of the claim but always intended to renew it conscious as he was that great injustice had been done and only accepted the amount then allowed as so much the ballance [balance] to be recovered when ever the heirs or administrator should prosecute their claim to the satisfaction of the commissioner of Pensions agreable [agreeable] to law and the rules of the Pension office. The [illegible] considered Declarant Administrator as aforesaid for an in behalf of the heirs and children of said Pricilla Cotton respectfully ask and demand that the whole case be carefully examined by the Honorable the Secretary of the Interior and that permission be granted.
Page 25

to his and their lawful attorney to examine all papers and collect all proof [illegible] and that upon a full and careful examination such further allowance be made and authorized to be paid and distributed to the legal heirs by your [illegible] as lawful administrator and as in duty bound he will ever pray Declarant states that the foregoing faith as stated of his own knowledge are true and those stated upon the information of others he believes to be true.
Sworn to and subscribed in open court thsi 2d day of June 1851 [signed]
Josiah Walton Administrator of Precilla Cotton Decd.
John L Bugg Clerk

State of Tennessee Sumner County
I John L Bugg Clerk of the County court of said Sumner County do herby certify that the foregoing was sworn to in open court by Josiah Walton who subscribed the same. I further certify that the said Josiah Walton is the lawful administrator of the estate of Precilla Cotton deceased and that the has given land and security as the law directs.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal [crossed out- Gallatin] of said court at office in Gallatin [ crossed out - testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand] this 2d day of June 1851. 
John L Bugg Clerk
Page 26

J C Guild [illegible] appeared in open court and made oath that, he has read over the Declaration of Josiah Walton Esq hereto attached and he adopts the same, as being true- He further states that he has applied to and drew of some years since the original declaration of Percilla Cotton, She was an extremely old woman, of good character yet of weak and decayed memory. She knew and stated proudly that her husband Capt Thomas Cotton, had served in the Revolutionary War- But she was not and could not be definite as to the time Thomas Cotton served in that war, she was of the impression that he served some two or three years- but could not be positive as to the time, and I out of abundant caution put the shorter period down on the declaration though I think it referenced that his service was greater, she not pretending to claim for any particular tour or pretending her right as to all the time for which he served- The Captains commission of Thomas Cotton was enclosed and made a part of the declaration and offeant is [illegible] and believes that service the allowing of declaration that documentary proof - has been obtained and filed in the department showing that Capt Thomas Cotton served in the revolutionary war and record pay for upwards of two years service in said war. It was expected at the time of [illegible] the declaration, that as to the time of service it was expected that proof would be required and it was thought [illegible] my [illegible] to fix in the declaration, that time as she was unable for the [illegible] aforesaid to do- but it was [illegible] [illegible] on to [illegible] herself of any proof that might be obtained as showing this service, which proof was afterward obtained and filed as official is informed.  
J C Guild
Sworn to in open court June 3d 1851  John L Bugg Clk
Page 27

State of Tennessee 
Davidson County  }
On this 18th day of July 1851, personally appeared Allen Cotton Administrator of Priscilla Cotton decd, and made oath in due form  of law that Polly Foxall, died three or four years ago leaving one child "Hardy M, Crier", who survived her for a short time and died, that she left an Executor, who has also died, that the said Polly Foxall decd. was his sister, and one of the children of Priscilla Cotton decd. 
[signed] Allen Cotton Administrator
Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written }  
J H McEwen JP
I hereby certify that I have been long acquainted with Allen Cotton the above named affiant, and that he is in all respects a reputable and veracious person.
 J H McEwen JP
State of Tennessee 
Davidson County}
I F.R. Cheatham Clerk of the County Court of said County, do hereby that J. H. McEwen Esq whose genuine name appears to the foregoing affidavits and certificate, is and was at the time of signing the same an acting justice of the peace in and for said county, duly elected, commissioned, and qualified as such and that full faith and credit are due and ought to be given to all his official acts as such in court of justice and elsewhere. In Testimony where of I have hereto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at office at Nashville, this 18th day of July 1851.
F.R. Cheatham Clerk 
By L. P. Cheatham D.C.
Page 28

State of Tennessee Sumner County
County Court of Monthly Sessions
July 8th 1845
I William S Munday Clerk of the County Court of Monthly Affairs holden at Gallatin in and for the County of Sumner Do hereby certify That Satisfactory evidence has been exhibitted to Said Court that Pricilla Cotton was the widow of Thomas Cotton a Captain in the War of the Revolution. That She was a resident of the County of Sumner and State of Tennessee and had made application for a Pension under act of Congress and that said Pricilla Cotton died on the 1st day of November 1843 That She left the following Children and legal heirs and representatives to wit Polly Foxall John Cotton Arthur Cotton Noah Cotton all of whom reside in Sumner County State of Tennessee. The heirs  of Moore Cotton The heirs of Sally Strother also reside in Sumner County Tennessee Also The heirs of Talithia Orr Who reside in the State of Illinois near the Post-office of Versailles and that they are her only legal heirs. * I further certify that it appears from the records of the Court that  [crossed out - Pricilla Cotton] Josiah Walton is the regularly appointed and qualified Administrator of the estate of the said Preculla Cotton deceased who died intestate
 In testimony whereof I have hereunto
 Set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at office in Gallatin this 8th day of July 1845
Wm. S. Munday Clerk of S.C.C.
Page 29

Pension Office Nashville Tennessee September 30, 1845
Received of Joel M. Smith Pension Agent Two thousand five hundred and thirty one dollars and seventy eight cents being for "Twelve years seven months and twenty seven day. Pension due Priscilla Cotton deceased widow of Thomas Cotton a Revolutionary pensioner under the Act of July 4 1836 from the 4 March 1831 to the 1 day of November 1843 the day of her death which sum is for the sole use of John Arthur Noah and Allen Cotton and Polly Foxall the only surviving children for which I have signed duplicate receipts.
$2531.78  [signed] Josiah Walton Adm of the Estate of Pricilla Cotton deceased.
Page 30

State of Tennessee Sumner County
Be it known that before me Stephen F Shell
a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid personally appeared Josiah Walton and made oath in due form of law that he is the lawful administrator of the estate of Priscilla Cotton deceased.  The identical person who was a pensioner and is now dead and to whom a certificate of Pension was issued of which the following is a true copy and which is herewith surrendered.
"War Department Revolutionary Claim,
I certify that in conformity with the law of the United States of the 4th of July, 1836 Priscilla Cotton deceased wife was the widow of Thomas Cotton who was a Captain in the Revolutionary War and was entitled to a Pension at the rate of Two hundred dollars per annum, commencing on the 4th of March 1831 and ending on the first of November eighteen hundred and forty three the day of her death, which will be paid upon the production of the proper vouchers to Josiah Walton Administrator for the sole use of John, Arthur, Noah, and Allen Cotton and Polly Foxall only surviving children.
Given at this War Office of the United States this 29th day of August One Thousand and eight hundred and forty five.
W S Marey
Secretary of War
Examined and countersigned
J L Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
That the deceased Pensioner resided in the county of Sumner in the state of Tennessee for the space of fifty five years before her death and that previous thereto she resided in North Carolina Halifax County and that she had not enter married but continues the widow of said Thomas Cotton deceased up to the day of her death, of  the truth of which statements I am fully satisfied.  Sworn to and subscribed this 29th day of September 1845
S F Schell, Justice of the Peace
Josiah Cotton, Administrator of the Estate of Priscilla Cotton, deceased.
Page 31

State of Tennessee  Sumner County
I William S. Munday Clerk of the County Court of Monthly sessions holden at Gallatin in and for the county of Sumner aforesaid do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said court that Pricilla Cotton was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of two hundred dollars per annum, was a resident of the county of Sumner in the state of Tennessee and died in the county of Sumner in the State of Tennessee in the year 1843 on the 1st day of November. That she left the following named children as her legal representatives to wit John Cotton, Arthur Cotton, Noah Cotton, Allen Cotton and Polly Foxall and that  they are her only legal heirs. I further certify that Josiah Walton is the lawful administrator of the estate of Pricilla Cotton deceased and that he has given bond and security for the faithful discharge of his duties as such according to law. I further certify that Stephen F. Shell is a Justice of the Peace as above and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at office in Gallatin this 29th day of September 1845.
[signed] Wm. S. Munday Clerk
Page 32

Thomas Cotton
N. 6727
BA-J/MCS

Mrs. George B. Sego
South Humphreys Avenue
Los Angeles
California

Dear Madam:

Reference is made to your request for the record of Thomas Cotten, a soldier of the Revolution.

The data which follow were obtained from papers on file in the pension claim, 6727, based upon the military service of Thomas Cotton.

While living in Hertford County, North Carolina, he was appointed May 11, 1780, Captain of a Company of Fort in the Hertford Regiment of Militia and served as such for at least two years. During this time he was taken prisoner and held for seven months.

He moved to Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1791, and died there June 5, 1795.

The date and place of his birth were not given nor were the names of his parents given.

The soldier married in the summer of 1788, Priscilla, her maiden name not stated.

While a resident of Sumner County, Tennessee, aged ninety-three years, Priscilla Cotton applied for pension June 29, 1840, as the widow of Thomas Cotton. The claim was allowed.

She died November 1, 1843.
Page 33

Thomas and Priscilla Cotton had the following children:

Mary Hall, who lived in Sumner County, Tennessee, in1840, aged seventy years, was dead in 1851, and was survived by one child, Hardy M. Crier, no explanation given as to different surname.
 
Moore Cotton, born about 1772 and died in Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1836, leaving heirs, their names not given.

Betsey Cotton, who died when about seven years of age.

Tabitha Orr, a resident of Illinois in 1840, aged sixty two years, was dead in 1845 and was survived by heirs who lived near Versailles, Illinois, in 1845, their names not given.

John Cotton who was dead in 1851. One H. F. Cotton was administrator for him in 1851, relationship not given.

Noah Cotton, a resident of Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1851, aged about sixty-six years.

Arthur Cotton who was dead in 1851. One Jesse H. Cotton of Simpson County, Kentucky, was administrator for him in 1851, relationship not given.

Allen Cotton, born March 12, 1781, and was living in Barton County, Tennessee, in 1881.

Alexander Cotton who died in Sumner County, Tennessee, prior to 1840,

Sally Cotton, who married --- Strother and died in
Summer County, Tennessee, prior to June 29, 1840, leaving heirs, their names not given.

Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator
Page 34

No. 535 
State of N Carolina 22 Decr 1783
As Auditors for the District of Wilmington
This is to certify that Whitaker Red was
Allowed the sum of two pounds four
shillings 1 pence for his services in the militia
as witnessed in Pay Doll No. 3220  Thos Sewelly
Lewis Holmes Clk   stamp  76  WDickson
[illegible]

No. 4873 State of North Carolina 24 Sept 1783
As Auditors for the District of Wilmington
This is to Certify that Danl McNeal was allowed
the sum of Nine pounds Nine Shillings [illegible]
for his services in the militia as retained in pay roll No. 2741
stamp  Thos Sewelly
Thos Routledge
Lewis Thomas Clk
Thomas Holmes Clk     PC
[illegible]
Page 35

Presented on the 30th day of September 1791
on Loan to the United States and Since Rejected,
W Skinner Commiss .
COTTON, THOMAS
(N.C.) W - 6727
St. Rcd 
No 33
handwritten vertical is unreadable.

Presented on the 30th day of September 1791
on Loan to the United States and Since Rejected,
W Skinner Commiss
COTTON, THOMAS
(N.C.) W6727
Page 36

North Carolina,
Newbern District, }
No. 1587
THIS may certify, John Laughinhouse of Witt-- [seal over part of word] County, for Militia Duty, as per Capt. Hodges Pay Roll was allowed the sum of Nine pounds Eight Shill. Specie, this 23d Day of February 1782
Thos Coor Clk
Jam. Coor
John Hawks } District Auditor 


NORTH CAROLINA.     No. 22
AGREEABLE to Act of Assembly, passed in May, one thousand seven hundred and eighty-four, the State of North Carolina is indebted to Peter Rainer srg't of the Continental line of this state One [illegible stamp over it] [illegible very light]  7/9 
specie on acc[illegible stamp] pay, [illegible]
1780 [stamp] six per cent interest for the first of August 1783.
Dated at Halifax, the first of September, 1784.
R M Culloch } Commissioners.
[stamped] THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF THE UNITED STATES
S135 7 G [illegible very light]


No. 1615 £3.4 Specie
State of North Carolina Edenton District
This may certify that James Demoys claim being exhibited were allowed for three pounds four shillings Specie by report of the board of Auditor dated this 7th day of April 1783
[stamped] THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF THE UNITED STATES
Wm Wittlighton
[illegible very light]
Ed Blount Clerk
Page 37

COTTON,THOMAS
(N. C.) W-6727
No4 D Jenkins
COTTON,THOMAS


(N. C.) W-6727
[illegible] Armstrong



Abraham Jenkins 
[illegible]
Thoms Furman
3'4' '
1'1'8
£4'5'8
COTTON,THOMAS
(N. C.) W-6727
no 1239
Page 38

State of North Carolina
To Thomas Cotton Gent Greeting
We reposing special Trust and Confidence in your Patrioting, Valour, Conduct, and Fidelity, do by these Presents constitute and appoint you to be Captain of a Company of foot in the Hertford Regiment of Militia. 
You are therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the Duty of Captain by exercising and well disciplining the officers and Soldiers under your Command, and by doing and performing all Manner of Things thereunto
belonging. And we do strictly charge and require all Officers and soldiers under your Command to be obedient to your Orders as Captain.
    And you are to observe and follow such
Orders and Directions, from Time to Time, as you shall receive from your superior Officers, according to the Rules and Directions of military Discipline, and the Laws of this State.
WITNESS ABNER NASH, Esquire, Governor, Captain-General, and Commander in Chief, in and over the said State, under his hand, and the great Seal, at Newbern the Eleventh Day of May Anno Dom. 1780 and in the fourth Year of our Independence.

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF THE UNITED STATES  - Stamp
Page 39

[appears to be the back side of a copied page]

By His Ecellys Comd
T Ghasgon Sec Cr.  Nash

[upside down]
Thomas Cotton
N.C.
W6727
Page 40

November 11, 1932
BA-J/MOS
Thomas Cotton
W. 6727

Mr. John L. Cotton
3705  79th Street
Jackson Heights
New York City
Dear Sir:

Reference is made to your letter of October 23, 1932, requesting information in regard to Thomas Cotton, a soldier of the Revolution.

The data furnished herein were obtained from papers on file in the pension claim, W. 1727, based upon the military service of Thomas Cotton.

While living in Hertford County, North Carolina, he was appointed May 11, 1780, Captain of a Company of Foot in the Hertford Regiment of Militia and served as such for at least two years. During this time he was taken prisoner and held for seven months.

He moved to Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1791, and died there June 5. 1795.

The date and place of his birth were not given.

The soldier married in the summer of 1769, Priscilla, her maiden name not stated.

While a resident of Sumner County, Tennessee, aged ninety three years, Priscilla Cotton applied for pension June 29, 1840, as the widow of Thomas Cotton. The claim was allowed,

She died November 1, 1843.
Page 41

Thomas and Priscilla cotton had the following children:

Mary Powell, who lived in Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1840, aged seventy years, was dead in 1851 and was survived by one child, Hardy M. Crier, no explanation given as to different surname.

Moore Cotton, born about 1772 and died in Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1836, leaving heirs, their names not given.

Betsey Cotton, who died when about seven years of age.

Tabitha Orr, a resident of Illinois in 1840, aged sixty-two years, was dead in 1845 and was survived by heirs who lived near Versailles, Illinois, in 1845 their names not given.

John Cotton who was dead in 1851. One H. F. Cotton was administrator for him in 1851, relationship not given.
Noah Cotton, a resident of Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1851, aged about sixty-six years.

Arthur Cotton who was dead in 1881, one Jesse H. Cotton of Simpson County, Kentucky, was administrator for him in 1851, relationship not given.

Allen Cotton, born March 12, 1781, and was living in Davidson County, Tennessee, in 1851.

Alexander Cotton who died in Sumner County, Tennessee, prior to June 29, 1840.

Sally Cotton who married -- Strother and died in Sumner County, Tennessee, prior to June 29, 1840, leaving heirs 
their names not given.
Very truly yours
A. D. MILLER
Assistant to Administrator
Page 42

Mrs. F. E. Harrel
P. O. Box 517
Cisco, Texas

July 3, 1930.

Dear Sir:

I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim W. 6727, It appears that Thomas Cotton, while living in Hertford County, North Carolina, was appointed May 11, 1780, Captain of a Company of Foot in the Hertford Regiment of Militia and served as such for at least two years. During this time he was taken prisoner and held for seven months.

He moved to Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1791 and died there June 5, 1795.

The date of his birth and his occupation are not given.

The soldier married in the summer of 1769, Priscilla, her maiden name is not stated.

While a resident of Sumner County, Tennessee, aged ninety three years, Priscilla Cotton applied for pension June 29, 1940 under the Act of July 4, 1836. This act was for the benefit of widows of the soldiers of the Revolution. The claim was allowed.

She died November 1, 1843.

Thomas and Priscilla Cotton had the following children:
Mary Foxall, who lived in Sumner County, Tennessee, 
May 11, who lived in Bremer County, Tennessee, in 1840, aged seventy years, was dead in 1851, and was survived by one child, Hardy M. Crier, no explanation given as to different surname.

Moore Cotton, born about 1772, died in Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1836, leaving heirs, their names not given.
Page 43

Betsey Cotton, who died when about seven years of age

Tabitha Orr, a resident of Illinois in 1840, aged sixty two years, was dead in 1845 and was survived by heirs who lived near Versailles, Illinois, in 1845, their names not given.

John Cotton, who was dead in 1851.  One H. F. Cotton was administrator for him in 1851, relationship not given.

Noah Cotton, a resident of Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1851, aged about sixty-six years.
    
Arthur Cotton, who was dead in 1852, One Jesse H. Cotten, of Simpson County, Kentucky, was administrator for him at 1851, relationship not given.

Allen Cotton, born March 12, 1781, was living in Davidson County, Tennessee, in 1851.

Alexander Cotton, who died in Sumner County, Tennessee, prior to June 29, 1840.

Sally Cotton, married ---  Strother, died in Sumner County, prior to June 29, 1840, leaving heirs, their names not given.

Very truly yours,
E. W. Morgan,
Acting Commissioner.
Page 44

August 17, 1929

Mr. Frederick Strong
Smithshire
Illinois

Dear Sir:

I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 6727, it appears that Thomas Cotton, while living in Hertford County, North Carolina, was appointed May 11, 1780, Captain of a Company of Foot in the Hertford Regiment of Militia and served as such for at least two years. During this time he was taken prisoner and held for seven months.

He moved to Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1791 and died there June 5, 1795.

The date of his birth and his occupation are not given.

The soldier married in the summer of 1786, Priscilla, maiden name is not stated.

While a resident of Sumner County, Tennessee, aged ninety-three years, Priscilla Cotton applied for pension June 29, 1840, under the Act of July 4, 1836. This act
Page 45

was for the benefit of widows of soldiers of the Revolution.
[Handwritten in ]The claim was allowed

She died November 1, 1843.
   
Thomas and Priscilla Cotton had the following children:

Mary Foxall, who lived in Sumner County, Tennessee,
in 1840, aged seventy years, was dead in 1851, and was
survived by one child Hardy M. Crier, no explanation given as to different surname.

Moore Cotton, born about 1772, and died in Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1836, leaving heirs, their names are not given.

Betsey Cotton, who died when about seven years of age.

Tabitha Orr, a resident of Illinois in 1840, aged sixty two years, was dead in 1845, and was survived by heirs who lived near Versailles, Illinois, in 1845, their names not given.

John Cotton, who was dead in 1851.  One H. F. Cotton was administrator for him in 1851, relationship not given.

Noah Cotton, a resident of Sumner County, Tennessee, in 1851, aged about sixty-six years

Arthur Cotton, who was dead in 1851.  One Jesse H. Cotton, of Simpson County, Kentucky, was administrator for him in 1851, relationship not given.

Allen Cotton, born March 12, 1781, and was living in Davidson County, Tennessee, in 1851.

Alexander Cotton, who died in Sumner County, Tennessee, prior to June 29, 1840.

Sally Cotton, married --- Strother, and died in Sumner County, Tennessee, prior to June 29, 1840, leaving heirs, their names not given.
-2-
Page 46

The names of the parents and brothers and sister of Thomas and Priscilla Cotton are not shown in the papers of the pension claim and there is no information in regard to any other Priscilla.
Very truly yours,
EARL D. CHURCH
Commissioner
Page 47

Rev. & 1812 War Section
[illegible]

December 11, 1928

J. D. Neal
70 Fifth Avenue
New York, N.Y.


Sir:

I advise you that photostatic copies of original papers
on file in the Revolutionary War pension claim of
Thomas Cotton, North Carolina Troops, widow, Princilla,
No. 6727, will be furnished you on request, at the rate of
fifteen cents a page with twenty-five cents extra for certification, if that is desired.

The number of pages to be copied is ninety-three. [written on the right side of this paragraph] - The little papers in the envelope for protection & the telegram, looked up, did not seem to have any relation to this man so I omitted them in photos.

The proper amount should be forwarded to this bureau by money order drawn to the order of the Secretary of the Interior.

Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner
Page 48

[handwritten]   Rev. & 1812

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT
THE NATIONAL CYCLOPEDIA OF AMERICAN BIOGRAPHY
THE FORMOST BIOGRAPHICAL AUTHORITY OF THE UNITED STATES
70 FIFTH AVENUE NEW YORK
AMES T. WHITE & Co. PUBLISHERS
(Founded in 1873)
CABLE ADDRESS: JOIST, N.Y. 
TELEPHONE - ALGONQUIN 7330
ALGONQUIN 7331

December 4, 1928    [stamped to the side upside down] - 
OFFICE OF 
THE CHIEF CLERK
DEC 5 1928
BUREAU OF PENSIONS

Chief Clerk
Pension Bureau
Washington, D.C.

Dear Sir:

I am anxious to know whether either Lazarus or Thomas Cotton, or both of them, who were natives of Hertford Co., N.C., were revolutionary war pensioners.

Can you supply me with the information on this point or will it be necessary for me to employ some one in Washington to go to the Pension office and search the records.

If anything is found, I should like to have a copy of [underlined]all  material on record.

I would pay any reasonable sum for this information.

Very truly yours,
J. D. Neel (signature)
J. D. NEEL
Associate Editor

JDN-FMT
Page 49

645 ½ So HumphreysAve.,
Los Angeles Calif
April 10, 1933
Veteran's Administration, Bureau of Pension
Washington D.C.
Gentlemen:
    Will you please give me a copy of 
data furnished by Priscilla Knight Cotton, Widow of Capt. Thomas Cotton (1748-1795).  She applied for a pension 1840 which was allowed Capt. Thomas Cotten was born in N.C. and died in Sumner County Tenn.

If the information furnished gives a list of his children together with birth dates, I shall be very glad to have same.

Thanking you kindly
I am sincerely yours
Mrs Geo. B. Sego.
Page 50

Director of Pensions
Washington, D.C.

Sunday October 23, 32
Dear Sir:
In 1845, Josiah Walton, administrator Priscilla Cotton, widow of Captain Thomas Cotton renewed the application for pension, under act of Congress of the 7th June
1832, and the 4th July 1836, though A. Ferguson as agent. A certificate of pension was issued to Josiah Walton of that at the rate of 200 per annum from March 4, 1831 to November 1st, 1843, the date of the death of Priscilla Cotton (the widow applied for Pension June 29, 1840, shortly before her death in '43.)
On Sept 11, 1851, a certificate for $3,500.00 was received by the estate from the Pension Fund.
Do any of your records give any information as to the birth place and ancestry of this Captain Thomas Cotton, who served in the Revolution, from North Carolina?
3705 79th
Jackson Heights 
New York City 
Yours truly
John L. Cotton
Page 51

F. E. HARRELL
P. O. BOX 517
Wm. Farr W.21094

CISCO, TEXAS, May 3, 1930193

The Pension Bureau
Washington, D. C.

Gentlemen:
Will you please send me copies of the pensions of the widows of Thomas Cotton 1745-95 of Hertford Co. N. C., his widow was granted a pension, one of the other died in Summer County Tenn, also Col William Farr.  William Farr was born in the union district, South Carolina died in 1794, His wife was Elizabeth Talefarre.

Do you have a pension for Isaac Norman also Joseph Norman.
if so will you please send them to me.

Thanking you, I remain
Yours truly
Mrs F.E. Harrell
Stamped - Received May 12, 1930
Old Records 1
Page 52

Smithshire, Illinois,
August 5, 1929.


The Commissioner of Pensions,
Bureau of Pensions, Department of Interior,
Washington, District of Columbia.

Dear Sir:

You will find enclosed a copy of a letter dated Jan. 26, 1850 from the Pension Office concerning Priscilla Cotton, died Nov. 1, 1843, widow of Thomas Cotton. You will also find enclosed a skeleton genealogical chart indicating that I am trying to connect my ancestry up with the above mentioned Priscilla Cotton. I will appreciate very much if you are able to give me any information that may help me.

What did the Act of July 4, 1836 provide?
What were the births and deaths dates, and marriage date of Priscilla and Thomas Cotton?
What was their residence or residences, and what was their occupation?
How did Priscilla Cotton become entitled to a pension?
What was the maiden name of Priscilla Cotton?
Do you have a record of a Priscilla Cotton that was related to the Priscilla Cotton that received the pension, and if so, whom did this Priscilla Cotton marry?

Stamps:
REVOLUTIONARY & 1812 WARS
AUG 9, 1929
BUREAU OF PENSIONS

U. S. PENSION OFFICE 
AUG 8, 1929
Page 53

Do you know the names of the parents of Priscilla and Thomas Cotton, their dates, residences, mother's maiden names and occupations?
Do you have any record of brothers or sisters of Priscilla and Thomas Cotton?
If you are able to give me any information in answer to my questions, or able to give me any which you may have I will be very thankful to you.

Very respectfully yours,
Frederick Strong
Page 54

[seal on top left] Hartford Fire Insurance Co

The Hartford Fire Insurance Co
Organized 1794  Chartered 1840
Eastern Department
Geo. L. Chase, President
Chas. E. Chase, Vice President       P.C. Royce, Secretary
R.M. Bissell, Vice- President   Thos. Turnbull, Ass't Secretary

Weatherford Texas  9/6/04
Hon. Eugene Wall
Com. of Pensions                    [stamped] Old War and Navy Sept 14 1904 Files

Dear Sir:-
     Will you kindly furnish me with the military service of my ancestor Capt. Thomas Cotton- who enlisted in the Revolutionary army from N. Carolina and died in Sumner Co. Tenn prior to 1840.
His widow, Priscilla Cotton made application for a pension under Acts of June 7m 1832, and July 4, 1836. She died before it was granted, however, a certificate of pension was issued to Josiah Walton administrator of Priscilla Cotton in 1845, of $200 per annum from Mar. 4, 1831 to Nov 1, 1843.
A subsequent certificate was issued on Sept 11th 1851, for $3500 bring the balance due the heirs of Priscilla Cotton.
I shall be glad to have all the information you can furnish me in regards to Capt. Cotton's service. Very respectfully Miss Lucile Cotton
Page 55

[left side of page]
Sept 16, 1904 Hist to 
Miss Lucile Cotton 
Weatherfield Texas [illegible]

1928- Dec 11- J. D. Neal [illegible]
cost of [illegible]

1929 August 17 His to 
Frederick [illegible]

1930 July 3- Hist [illegible]
F. E. Harrell

1932. Nov 11 Hist 
Mr. John L [illegible]

1933 May 21- [illegible]
Mrs Geo. B. [illegible]

[right side of page]

Revy Widow, &c.

File No. 6727
Priscilla Cotton
Wid.
Thomas Cotton
Capt. N. C. line
Act July 4th/36, Sec 3d
Index:- Vol. A, Page 144
[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 56

State of North Carolina
Comptroller's Office
April 22nd 1851
I, William J. Clarke Comptroller of Public Accounts, in and and for the State aforesaid, do hereby certify that it appears of record in my office to wit in the accounts of payments made to sundry persons on account of military services in that Revolutionary War to wit
Thomas Cotton
Book F. No. 2 page 38 pounds 221. & S 5 specie (Two hundred and twenty one pounds, five shillings)
Same Book, same page pounds 232 S 4 specie (Two hundred and thirty two pounds four shillings)
Book No. 14. page 53 pounds 9 (nine pounds) 
Same Book pounds 19 S 7 shillings (Nineteen pounds, seven shillings.)
Same Book appendix page 5. pounds 13 S 10 (Thirteen pounds ten shillings)
Book No. 13 page 54 pounds 12 S 16 D8 shillings (Twelve pounds sixteen shillings eight pence/specie
Book No. 24 page 72 pounds 11 S 5 (Eleven pounds, five shillings) Specie.
Seal unreadable
In testimony whereof I have unto subscribed my name and affixed my seal of office the day and year above written.
Wm. J. Clarke Comptroller
Page 57

Washington City
June 30th 1857

To the Commissioner of Pensions
Sir
I respectfully file aditional [additional] grounds on which we will rely upon before you to show that we are entitled to the possession of the pension certificate when issued in the case of Precilla Cotton's heirs.

1st There can be but one administrator to an estate and so long as he lives and is willing to act unless removed he has a right to the assets

2d We are the  original as well as present attorney and have never relinquished our right nor have we  at any time lost sight of the claim

3d We have at all times furnished the proof requesting to establish the claim

4  We object to an administrator being appointed in a different county when there is one still acting in the counth where the deceased last lived.

4   There are minor children who represent their deceased parents who received a part of the pension and will claim a part of any ballance to be allowed under the laws of Tennessee 

5 [illegible] Smith and Jones had no right whatever to the claim being intruders and taking up
Page 58

the claim soley upon the authority of one of the heirs who has no claim to the Pension except for his own proportional share. And the intervention of himself as administrator or any one else in a different County from the original administrator where there are no affidavits -
Void    Before an administrator can be appointed, the original must have died, refused to act and been removed or otherwise and then an administrator [illegible] [illegible] [illegible] to carry out the duties of the first may be appointed and not otherwise
and whatever Smith & Jones has done is for our benefit they being administrators in their own [illegible]  (Dr. Soutert] or guardian and
cannot appropriate any of the assets to their own use without authority of Court allowing the same after the asssets are in the hands of the first Administrator.
6th
We object to the certificate being given to Smith & Jones because it violates the rule lately adopted in the Pension office.
7th and for other and sufficient causes that we are ready and willing to show in writing or verbally as the rules of the office permit we claim the right as first above mentioned to the possession of the Pension certificate when issued in order that justice may be done and satisfaction given to the heirs of the said Precilla Cotton deceased
Respectfully.
A. Fergusson atto in fact
Page 59

aditional objection
Because we say that we have never been notified either verbally or written by any of the heirs or any one else in their behalf that we were to be superseded or have our service discontinued as agent or attorney and that Smith & Jones made it known to one of the heirs in different County
without giving notice to the rest of the heirs of Josiah Walton the lawful administrator. and that Smith & Jones done this for their own benefit to obtain the fee.
The foregoing facts here are ready to prove and verify where and when it shall be required of us from the records and papers now on file in the Pension office
A. Fergusson atty
and agent for the Administrator & heirs
Precella Cotton

handwritten vertically on bottom left side:  Brief in the case of Precella Cotton
Page 60

NEW  LINE
Bain's Electro-Chemical Telegraph,
PATENTED BY THE UNITED STATES
National Hotel, Cor. Pennsylvania Avenue and Sixth St.
The public are respectfully informed that the NEW LINE OF TELEGRAPH connecting
Washington, Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia and New York,  Has been completed, and the Wires Laid across the  NORTE RIVER UNDER WATER,to the office , No. 90 WALL STREET, NEW YORK, making the only direct and certain line between the NORTHERN, EASTERN, SOUTHERN AND WESTERN CITIES.
Dispatches for Boston, Providence and Intermediate stations, and forwarded by the NEW LINK from their office  in New York; and for those for Pittsburg, Wheeling, Cincinnati, Louisville, St. Louis, New Orleans,
And intermediate stations, are forwarded in connection with the O'REILLY WESTERN LINES.
HENRY ROGERS, GEN'l SUP'T.
Dated Nashville July 5th 1851
For Wm. E. Jones
I will send Noah's power tomorrow.
Your youngest child has been quite sick
but is now recovering
W. H. Smith
193
Page 61

State of Kentucky
Simpson County 
Know all men by these present that I, J. H. Cotton, of Simpson County, Kentucky, Administrator of Arthur Cotton dec'd one of the children of Priscilla Cotton do hereby ratify and confirm the appointment of Allen Cotton as Administrator of the case of Priscilla Cotton dec'd as well as all his lawful acts in the matter of the claim of the heirs of said Priscilla Cotton dec'd for increase of pension herey ratifying and confirming the appointment of Smith & Jones of Nashville, Tennessee as attorney to prosecute said claim & to receive the certificate of  pension.
Witness my had and seal the 17th day of July  1851.
J. H. Cotton (seal)
Administrator of Arthur Cotton (dec'd)
Signed sealed acknowledged and delivered in presence of W.C. Montague
Jm. A. Carter

Simpson County Kentucky
this day personally appeared before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace for said County J. H. Cotton, Administrator of Arthur Cotton and Acknowledges to the above to be his act and deed.
Given under my hand this 17th day of July 1851
A. B,  Cooksey, J. P.
Page 62

State of Kentucky
Simpson County
I as clerk of the county Court of said county do certify that A.B. Coolsey whose name appears to the foregoing certificateis and was at that time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for said county duly elected qualified and commissioned according to the laws and Constitution of said State, that full faith and credit and [illegible] and should be given to all his office acts as such.

Seal affixed - no words. 

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of said Court at office in the town of Franklin this 17th day July 1851
P.H. Gorsead C.S.C.C
By J M. Reed DC
Page 63

Comptroller's Office
Raleigh, North Carolina
July 17th 1851
Sir
    Your letter of the 12th inst (postmarked 14th) came to hand on yesterday and I hasten to reply.

My predecessors in office, twenty years ago, and the "Indents" to light their pipes, and tho' I am far more careful of my papers, still I think that I can afford to send you a few taken at random from the heap, as they will show you what an indent is far better than any description I can give you.

These Indents or certificates were issued by Auditors of Districts, Board of Commissioners of Army accounts & other authorized by the State, and were redeemed at the Treasury, when there happened to be any money there, but were used for the most part to pay taxes and purchases of confiscated property. They seem to have been transferable by assignment only.

The Sheriffs, deputy treasurers &c. delivered these to the principal Treasurer or to the Comptroller, on settlement of their accounts and the Finance Committee cancelled them by punching. In cases where the indents presented exceeded the dues of those officers they received a due bill which was very different from the indent.  These indents when issued were carefully registered, and the books were deposited in this office. So far as I have been
Page 64


able to ascertain a distinction was carefully made between the certificates issued for Military services and those for supplies &c

These books, for the most part, were carefully examined by the Commissioners who settled the account of North Carolina against the General Government, and all civil charges or charges for supplies marked.

I have attentively studied this subject for the last six months tho' the matter was by no means new to me, as I was some years ago a clerk in this office, and attended to business in the protracted absence of the Comptroller.

I have conversed often with my immediate predecessor (Maj. Collins,) on the subject and his views and mine coincide. While I was writing the letter to Mr. Jones, to which you allude, he happened to call in at my office and I read it to him, and he said that the statements therein made were correct.

With reference to militia service in North Carolina in the year 1783, I am unable to produce the documentary evidence. I could desire, as the Revolutionary History of N.C. has never been written. But from scraps of evidence collected principally in indulging an antiquarian fondness for searching old records, I have not a shadow of doubt that the troops
of this State were in service until late in the year 1783.

Traditionary evidence, as conclusive to my mind as tho' it were printed in a gilt-edged quarto, states that the Revolutionary soldiers were in service until cold weather at the end of 1783.

Our venerable Secretary (Mr Hill) now upwards of seventy
Page 65

years of age states that his father acted as chaplain to the troops in that year in an expedition against the Cherokee Indians. I am quite confident that a portion of the troops were continued in service until a late period of the Revolutionary war, to guard against Tory marauders and Indians.

One Company in the 1st. N.C. Regiment, as appears by the original roll in my office, was mustered June 12. 1783.

Commissary Hawkins charges on his book sundry rations issued Sept 6. 1783, the date being written in a plain legible hand.

My books afford abundant evidence that drafts of eighteen months men were made in the spring and summer of the year 1782.

In a letter from Genl Nat. Green to Governor Martin dated "Head Quarters near Bacon Bridge 1st July 1782"  He says (I copy from the original deposited in this office)   

I am also glad the State have complied with my requisition for the troops for Lieut Colonel Lee's Legion.  The vote of the House for a draft of men I could have wished had taken place a little earlier. It will be late in the season before they can be got in the field and we exposed in the meantime. I shall be happy if your draft answers your expectation of filling your line, and I doubt not every possible attention will be paid to the business necessary to complete the intention of the Legislature. I have directed Genl Summer to forward the men from the place of rendezvous as fast as they are collected to be formed into corps
Page 66

after their arrival in camp. Let not the reports circulated of appearance of an evacuation of the country slacken your exertions. The enemy may evacuate Georgia but there is no prospect of their leaving Charles Town.

As to the services of Thomas Cotton I know nothing more than I have stated. The Cotton family has always ranked among our first people & I doubt not that he was early in the field & long in it, as most of the men of standing at that day, on one side of the other.

I have thus hurriedly replied to your letter and I hope satisfactorily. It will afford me pleasure at any time to give you any information which you may desire from this office.

Very respectfully
Your obedient servant
Wm. J. Clarke Compt

James E. Heath Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City D.C.
Page 67

Copy
Pension Office
Aug 9. 1857

Sir, 

I have the honor to enclose a copy of my report to the Commissioner of Pensions in the case of Priscilla Cotton Claiming an increase of her pension under the act of July 4, 1836, in order that copies thereof may be transmitted to Messrs Clark and Collins and also to the Secretary of State of North Carolina.

I hope sincerely that the above named gentlemen will be enabled, by a consultation among them to furnish a satisfactory solution of the difficulty in this case and am

Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
F H Davidge

Joseph Bryan Esq
Washington D. C.
Page 68

NEW LINE
Bain's Electro Chemical Telegraph.
PATENTED BY THE UNITED STATES

The [illegible] are respectfully informed that the NEW LINE OF TELEGRAPI connecting
Washington, Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia and New York,
Has been completed, and the WIRES LAID ACROSS THE NORTH RIVER, UNDER WATER, to the office, NO. 29 WALL STREET, NEW YORK, making the only direct and certain line between the 
NORTHERN, EASTERN, SOUTHERN AND WESTERN CITIES.
Despatches for Boston, Providence and Intermediate Stations,
are forwarded by the NEW YORK LINE from their office in NEW YORK; and those for Pittsburg, Wheeling, Cincinnati, Louisville, St. Louis, New Orleans.
And intermediate stations are forward in connection with the O'REILLY WESTERN LINES.
HENRY J. ROGERS, GONSON.

Dated: Gallatin Tenn July 3rd 1850.
For Commissioner of Pensions
I hereby revoke my power of attorney to A. Ferguson in the revolutionary pension Claim of Priscilla Cotton deceased and request you to deliver the Pension certificate to W. E. Jones now in Washington.
Noah Colton
Page 69

Dear Sir,
    I do not think the additional evidence in the case of Priscilla Cotton  adds anything to the foregoing claim.  The 7 months during which he was captain were properly a and, as Congress, on the 19 January, 1778, provided their affidavit while detained or previously should he shall recin their regular pay But independently of the Comptrollers certificate
I do not think more than the service already allowed is made it. And it is
evident that these certificate cannot be taken as a safe guide in this case. It is alleged that Thomas Cotton entered the service as Captain in 1780. The payments made to his name amount to a little more than $1111, (444.9.8 N.C. currency) and that amount indicates a service of 2 years and nearly 4 months. Now it is a well known historical fact that the militia of North Carolina were called in for short terms and that after the surrender of Cornwallis in 1781 his little militia duty was done in any of the Southern states. As much as 2 years and 4 months service
Page 70

could hardly have been rendered by any militia man between 1780 and the close of the war, as he would have been almost constantly in the field. the presumption is, therefore, that there was more then one man of the same name in service in N.C and how much should be credited to this particular individual could only be shown by the evidence of those who served with him, which is not found in the present case.
Very Respectfully 
yr ob sv
F.H.C. Triplett
Page 71

Pension Office July 26th 1851

Sirs;
I have examined the papers in the case of Priscilla Cotton, in connexion with a letter received from the Comptroller of N. Carolina in reply, to certain enquiries addressed to that officer and after the best consideration I can give the subject I am still unconvinced as to the propriety of granting an increase of pension.  There is no doubt that a man named Thomas Cotton or rather more than one of that name received certificates for nearly three years military service in the war of the Revolution in N. Carolina but it is not only doubtful but scarcely credible that the husband of his Priscilla Cotton was the only individual of that name who performed that service. His wife was married to him several years before the revolution and in her declaration refers to three months service and afterwards to seven months captivity for which ten months she has received a pension. She says nothing of service after his return from captivity nor do any of the witnesses.   Cotton was appointed Captain in May 1780. Suppose for arguments sake that the first three months service and the period of captively brought him to the first
of 1781 If he served continuously afterwards, the time indicated by the certificates he must have been in the field until 1783. Admitting that the Comptroller's last certificate proves that the militia of North Carolina were often in service
Page 72

in 1783 that fact does not establish continuous service in any particular individual or Corps.  It was the almost universal practice to call out militia for short periods.  If Cotton was constantly in service throughout the whole war it is not easy to understand how his widow should have been ignorant of the fact.

The entries in the Comptroller's Office identify the name but not the man and in reference to the Certificates themselves I am still at a loss notwithstanding a recent communication from the Comptroller to understand their true import. I do not understand them as identical with the indents issued by Board of Commissioners in the Country for military service and therefore corresponding in every respect with such indents, nor do I understand it as expressly averred by the comptroller that the individual in whose name the certificate were issued in Raleigh, was necessarily the same person who performed the military service. There was nothing to prevent an individual from acquiring the indents by purchase & causing them to be consolidated in one or more certificate issued in his own name. This was the practice in other states.

Very respectfully
Your obedient servant
J.E. Heath Comm Pensions
To Smith & Jones
agents for Allen Cotton
administrator of P. Cotton
Page 73

Comptroller's Office No. Car.
August 1st. 1851

Your letter of the 29th ult is before me and though I am very much pressed by business I hasten to reply tho' I must do so briefly.

The Records of my office show nothing to favour the supposition that there was but one Thomas Cotton, for the various spelling Cotton, Cotten and Cottin is not worthy of a moment's consideration from the intrinsic evidence furnished by my book, I feel warranted in saying that there was but one Thomas Cotton & that he was an officer. The two large payments £221  S 5 specie and £ 232 S 4 specie were made by a paymaster and are recorded in a list of officers to whom payments were made, Col. Peter Dauge, Capts. Oliver Moore &c. Sometimes the rank is added but more frequently omitted.

The 2 paragraphs below are underlined.

The Indents and military certificates are identical.  They do not appear to have been transferable except by endowment or written conveyance.  

As to their being bought up and a new indent being issued to the purchase, there is no evidence that such
Page 74

Underline continued-
was the case in any instance, and there is abundant proof that in hundreds of instances such was not the case. After the close of the war there were some certificates issued for amounts of interest and they may have been issued in the names of holders of a number of indents, which they may have purchased but there is very little, if any proof of that.

End underline paragraphs.

All the persons who have ever looked into this matter agree with me in opinion that the indent or certificates always issued in the name of the soldier and were never changed.

Hoping that this will prove satisfactory, I am
Very respectfully
Your obedient servant
Wm J. Clarke Compt
P.S. 
You are at liberty to show this letter to the Commissioner of Pensions
Joseph Bryan Esq.
Washington City
D.C.
Page 75

Pension Office
Aug 8th 1857.

Sir,

I have examined the case of Priscilla Colton widow of Thomas Colton Claiming an increase of pension under the Act of 4 July 1836 with great care and minuteness.

The certificate of the Comptroller of North Carolina has always been regarded as the best evidence attainable of Militia service in that State and as such would seem to command consideration, but strange as it may seem, there is an important discrepancy between the certificates given by two Comptrollers having charge of the same records, in this case. Not only does the aggregate amount of payments made as certified by Mr Collins, differ from that made by Mr Clark, the former being £497.15.7 and the latter £519.7.8. but the specific payments
differ in amount, as well as in number. The payments as stated by Mr Clarke are 
£221.5.0
232.4.0
9.0.0
19.7.0
13.10.0
12.16.8
11.5.0
Total £ 519.7.8

over to the left:
£221.5
232.4
19.7
13.10
Total 487.6
Page 76

from the records made and certified by two different Comptrollers differ, consequently I am not at liberty to place reliance upon either in a matter
of so much importance and until this discrepancy shall be reconciled or some new and satisfactory proof of additional service introduced, I do not think the pension should be increased.
I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
Your obedient Servant
F H Davidge
Examiner

Jas E Heath Esq
Comr of Pensions

Enclosed you will find a letter addressed to you and marked "private" which I found among the papers with the seal unbroken and of course, did not feel at liberty to open.
Very Respt fe
F. H. D.
Page 77

from the records made and certified by two different Comptrollers differ, consequently I am not at liberty to place reliance upon either in a matter
of so much importance and until this discrepancy shall be reconciled or some new and satisfactory proof of additional service introduced, I do not think the pension should be increased.
I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
Your obedient Servant
F H Davidge
Examiner

Jas E Heath Esq
Comr of Pensions

Enclosed you will find a letter addressed
to you and marked "private" which I found among the papers with the seal unbroken and of course, did not feel at liberty to open.
Very Respt fe
F.H.D.
Page 78

Pension Office
Aug 8th 1857.

Sir,

I have examined the case of Priscilla Colton widow of Thomas Colton Claiming an increase of pension under the Act of 4 July 1836 with great care and minuteness.

The certificate of the Comptroller of North Carolina has always been regarded as the best evidence attainable of Militia service in that State and as such would seem to command consideration, but strange as it may seem, there is an important discrepancy between the certificates given by two Comptrollers having charge of the same records, in this case. Not only does the aggregate amount of payments made as certified by Mr Collins, differ from that made by Mr Clark, the former being £497.15.7 and the latter £519.7.8. but the specific payments
differ in amount, as well as in number. The payments as stated by Mr Clarke are
£221.5.0
232.4.0
9.0.0
19.7.0
13.10.0
12.16.8
11.5.0
Total £ 519.7.8

over to the left:
£221.5
232.4
19.7
13.10
Total 487.6
Page 79

by Mr Collins £221.5.0
232.4.0
19.1.7
11.15.0.
13.10.0
Total. £497.15.7

One of other of these statements must be incorrect and until the discrepancy is explained neither can be, relied on.

There is another remarkable feature in this case. Admitting, for the sake of argument, that Mr Clark's statement is correct and that the Claimant's husband, who it will be remembered was in the Militia and therefore only subject to be called out at intervals and for short tours of service, had served as a Captain for three years from May 11th 1780 the date of his commission, without any intermission, his pay as such would only have amounted to $1440 in all or $ 480 per annum. Taking then the amt stated to have been paid, by Mr Clark £519.7.8 and reducing it to dollars and cents we find that the result will be $1731 or $291 more than the pay of a Captain for the same period If we take Mr Collins' statement, the difference will be $219.24/100.

The only mode of coming at the truth in this matter, that suggests itself to me, is to apply to the Secretary of State of North Carolina, Mr Hill who
Page 80

may have in his office some information which may throw light upon the matter. The Militia Rolls of North Carolina are defective and I am not certain that W. H. has any rolls in his office other than those of the regular service, but if in his power, he will furnish such details of the service as will enable this Department to come to a just conclusion in the case.

It appears to be clear that the claimant's husband held the Commission of Captain and served as such, but there is no reason to believe that he held any higher command, and it is difficult to imagine how his pay as a Captain could have amounted to so much as the sum stated by either of the Comptrollers.   Mr Clark [illegible] states that the payments made were for [illegible] services. He also states that the payments for military services were kept separate and distinct from those made for issue of supplies and that the name of Thomas Colton is found in a book where the names of officers alone were recorded. The same gentleman further says that there were issued for regular troops as well as militia as late as in September 1783, as appears from the Book of Issues of Commissary J. 
Hawkins deposited in his office.

Under these circumstances I do not feel competent to decide in this case. The extracts
Page 81

from the records made and certified by two different Comptrollers differ, consequently I am not at liberty to place reliance upon either in a matter of so much importance and until this discrepancy shall be reconciled or some new and satisfactory proof of additional service introduced I do not think the pension should be increased.

I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
Obt Serv
F H Davidge
Examiner

Jas E Heath Esq
Comr of Pensions.

Enclosed you will find a letter addressed to you and marke "private" which I found among the papers with the seal unbroken and of course did not feel at liberty to open
Very Respt fe
F. H. D.
Page 82

State of Tennessee ⎬
Sumner County
Know all men by these presents, That I,
H. F. Cotton Executor of John Cotton dec'd one of the children and heirs of Priscilla Cotton dec'd do hereby ratify and confirm the appointment of Allen Cotton as Administrator of the said Priscilla Cotton decd as well as all her lawful acts in the matter of the claim for increase of Pension now pending, hereby authorizing and requesting the Commissioner of Pensions to make said Increase payable to the said Allen Colton as administrator for the benefit of the heirs of the said Priscilla, and confirming the appointment of Smith & Jones of Nashville, Tennessee, as Attorneys to prosecute said claim, and receive the certificate of Pension.
Witness my hand and seal this 16th day of July 1837.

H F Colter (seal)
Executor of Jon Cotton dec'd

Signed sealed acknowledged and
delivered in presence of
Noah Cotton
Cullen Edwards

State of Tennessee Sumner County
Personally appeared before me
Solomon an acting Justice of the
Peace in and for the County of Sumner  & State aforesaid H. F. Cotton with whom I am acquainted who acknowledged that he executed the above power of Attorney on the day it bears date and for the purposes therein contained witness my hand and
seal the 16th July 1851
Wm Solomon
Page 83

State of Tennessee
Sumner County
   I John L Bugg Clerk of the County Court of Sumner County certify that William Solomon whose name is attached to the within Power of Attorney is and was at the time of signing the an acting Justice of the Peace of the said County of Sumner duly elected,  commissioned and qualified as such and that his said signature is genuine.
Given under my hand and seal
of Office at Office in Gallatin
this 16th of July 1831
John L. Bugg, Clk
by H. W, Bugg D.C.
Page 84

State of North Carolina
Comptroller's office
June 28th 1851

I William J Clarke, comptroller of public accounts in and for the State aforesaid, do hereby certify that it appears of record in my office among the payments made to sundry persons on account of military services in the Revolutionary war, that the following payments were made to Thomas Cotton to wit:
Book F. No. 2 page 38  £221 S 5 (Two hundred and twenty one pounds, five shilling ) specie.  
Same book and page £232.S4 (Two hundred and thirty two pounds, four shillings) specie
Book No. 14 page 53 £9 (nine pounds) specie.  Same Book and page £19 S 7.(nineteen pounds seven shillings) specie.
Same Book, appendix page 5 £13S10. (thirteen pounds ten shillings, eight pence) specie.
Book No. 19 page 54 £12S16D8 (Twelve pounds, sixteen shillings, eight pence) specie.
Book no 24 page 7.2. T. Cotton £11S5 (Eleven pounds five shillings) speci, which payment I am
Page 85

heretofore made contains the name of officers only, and from the amount of the payments I am of opinion that said Thomas Cotton was a Captain or Lieutenant, and that there is no information in this office from which the consideration for which said payments were made, further than that they were for military services, can be determined.
I furthermore certify that it appears by Commissary J. Hawkins' Book of Issues deposited in this office that there were troops both regulars and militia in the service and to whom nations were issued in September 1783.
[Seal affixed not readable.]
In testimony whereof I have hereunto
subscribed my name & affixed
my seal of office the day & year
first above written
Wm. J. Clarke Compt.
Page 86

copy
Pension Office
August 9, 1851

Sir,

I have the honor to enclose a copy of my report to the commissioner of Pensions, in the case of Priscilla Cotton, claiming an increase of her pension under the act of July 4, 1836, in order that copies thereof may be transmitted by you to messos Clark and Collins and also to the Secretary of State of North Carolina.

I hope sincerely that the above named gentlemen will be enabled, by a consultation among them, to furnish a satisfactory solution of the difficulty in this case and am        

Very Respectfully
Your Obedt Servt
F. H. Davidge

Joseph Bryan Esq
Washington DC
copy

Pension office
August 8th , 1851

Sir,

I have examined the case of Priscilla Cotton, widow of Thomas Cotton , claiming an increase of pension, under the act July 4th 1836, with great care and minuteness.

The certificate of the comptroller of North Carolina has always been regarded as the best evidence attainable, of militia service in that State, and , as such, would seem to command consideration, but, strange as it may seem, there is an important discrepancy between the certificate given by two comptrollers  [illegible]
Page 87

having charge of the same records, in this case.  Not only does the aggregate amount of payments made, is certified by Mr. Collins, differ from that made by Mr. Clarke, the former being £497.15.7 and the latter £519.7.8 but the specific payments differ in amount, as well as in number.  The payments as stated by Mr. Clarke are;
£221.5.0
232.4.0.
9.0.0
19.7.0
13.10.0
12.16.8
11.5.0__________
Total-- 519.7.8

by Mr. Collins
£221.5.0
232.4.0
19.1.7
11.15.0
13.10.0________
Total 497.15.7
_____________________________________________
One or other of these statements must be incorrect and, until the discrepancy is explained, neither can be relied on.

There is another remarkable feature in this case.  Admitting. for the sake of argument, that Mr. Clark's statement is correct and that the claimants husband, who, it will be remembered, was in the Militia, and therefore only subject to be called out
at intervals, and for short tours of service, had served as a Captain for these years from May 11th 1780 the date of his commission, without any intermission, his pay, as such, would only have amounted to $1440, in all, or $480 per annum.  Taking the amount said
Page 88

said to have been paid, by Mr. Clark, £519.7.8 and reducing it to dollars and cents we find that the result will be $1721 or $291 more than the pay of a Captain for the same period.  If we take Mr. Collins' statement, the difference will be $219.26.

The only mode of coming at the truth in this matter, that suggests itself to me, is to apply to the Secretary of State of North Carolina, Mr Hill, who may have in his office some information which may throw light upon the matter.  The Militia Rolls of North Carolina are defective and I am not certain that Mr. H. has any rolls in his office, other than those of the regular service, but, if in his power, he will furnish such details of the service as will enable this Department to come to a just conclusion in the case.

It appears to be also that the claimants husband held the commission of Captain and served as such, but there is no reason to believe that he held any higher command and it is difficult to imagine how his pay as a Captain could have amounted to so much as the sum stated by either of the comptrollers.  Mr. Clarke expressly states that the payments were made for military services.  He also states that the payments for military services were kept separate and distinct from those made for issues of supplies, and that the name of Thomas Cotton is found in a book where the names of officers alone were recorded.  The same gentleman further says that there was issues for regular troops, as well as Militia, as late as in September 1783, as appears from the book of issues of Commissary J. Hawkins, deposited in his office.  

Under these circumstances I do not feel competent to decide in this case.  The extracts from the records, made and certified by how different Comptrollers, differ consequently I am not at liberty to place reliance upon either, (in
Page 89

in a matter of so much importance and until this discrepancy
shall be reconciled, or some new and satisfactory proof of
additional service introduced, I do not think the pension
should be increased.

I have the honor to be,
Very Respectfully,
Your obeat, servt. 
F. H. Davidge
Examiner.

James E. Heath Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 90

State of North Carolina ss.
Executive Office Raleigh
August 16th 1851

On the day above written we David S. Reid, Govenor of said State, and William Hill Secretary of State, at the request of William I. Clarke, Comptroller of public accounts have inspected the books of payments to soldiers of the Revolutionary War, deposited in his office, and find the following payments made to Thomas Cotton, to wit:
In Book endorsed "Book No. 2 F. Militia List"
page 38, Thomas Cotton £221S5 specie
(two hundred and twenty one pounds, five shillings)
Same book and same page Thomas Cotton £232S4 specie, (two hundred and thirty two pounds, four shillings).
Book No. 14 page 53 "Thomas Cotton £9. (nine pounds) same book and page, Thomas Cotton £19S7 (Nineteen pounds, seven shillings)
Same book appendix page 5. Thomas Cotton £13S10.
(thirteen pounds ten shillings)
Book No 19. page 54  Thomas Cotton £12S16P8 (twelve
pounds sixteen shillings and eight pence) specie certificate
Book No. 24 page 72 £11S5 (eleven pounds, five shillings)
T, Cotton.

David S. Reid,
Govenor
W. Hill Secretary of State
Page 91

Carthage Tennessee
10th July 1845

Dear Sir

Having arrived home from your City I have on Monday last attended to the obtaining the proof in open court required by you in your report to me when present in the case of Mrs. Pricella Cotton I hope since the proof is as you required you will issue the Certificate without delaying it as if the same had to be reinvestigated.

You will see that no question now need be investigated and the proof gives the names of the children and their place of residence.

Respectfully
A Fergusson

N.B. Please forward the Certificate in her case
yours AF

James S Edwards, Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
Page 92

Payment to be made
at Nashville
by Joel M. Smith
Agent for paying Pensioners,
in the Agency of


Recorded in the pension
Office, in Book C Vol.1
Page 198 by

Clerk.
Page 93

WAR DEPARTMENT.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIM.
 
I certify that, in conformity with the 3d section of the law of the United States, of the 4th of July. 1836,

Priscilla Cotton, decd who was the widow of Thomas Cotton,
who was a Captain in the Revy. War, was entitled to a pension at the rate of $200 per ann. coming on the 4th March, 1831, and ending on 1st November, 1843, the day of her death; which will be paid upon the production of the proper vouchers, to Josiah Walters, Adm. for the sole use of John, Arthus, Noah, and Allen Cotton and Polly Faxale, only surviving children--
March and 4th of September.

Given at the War Office of the United
States, this 29th day of 
Augt---one thousand eight
hundred and forty five--

Secretary of War.

Examined and Countersigned.

Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 94

Gallatin  June 30th 1840
J L Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions

Enclosed you will please find the Declaration of Percella Cotton for a pension under the acts of 1836 and 1832 and likewise her accompanying proof with the original commission appointing her husband Mr. Cotton a Captain in the Revolutionary War.
You will please so soon as your decision is made on the application [illegible] to me at Gateston Tennessee or to Percella Cotton at Gallatin Tennessee the Military instructions or papers or certificate of pension & your decision statement
forwareded as I presume it will from the Commissioner and proof.
I am yours respectfully 
J C Guild
J L Brand Esq.
Page 95

5121
Percilla Cotton
of Thomas
Tennessee
Suspended
J. Guild Aug 8, 1840
See let: 4 January 1841 to Hon W.B. Campbell
let 7 May '42 Hon K Rayner
let to A Fergusson May 29, 43
"" same 21 June 1845
Act of July 1836
Page 96

[image too darkened to be legible]
Page 97

Washington City
July 15. 1852
Jas E. Heath Esq
Comr. of Pensions
Sir
A bill in chancery having been filed in Davidson County Tennessee by the heirs of Polly Joathale against Allen Cotton Admr. of Thos. Cotton decd. I have respectfully to ask for certified copies of the Declaration of Allen Colton & the argument of M A Ferguson filed in the claim, to be used in the trial of the Cause
with great respect
Your obt. Sevt.
Joseph Bryan
Page 98

Washington City
July 29. 1851
Wm J. Clark Esq
Comptroller
Sir 
I am sorry to find it necessary again to trouble you in relation to the claim of Thomas Cotton, I had hoped that the full and satisfactory letter written by you to the Comr. of Pensions in answer to certain enquiries made by him, would have satisfied him, that the heirs of Cotton even entitled to an increase of Pension, but you will perceive by the letter of the Comr. which I herewith enclose that he still has doubts and presumes that their must have been more Thomas Cottons than the one Thomas Cotton who was a Captain and whose commission as such is on file with the papers. By a careful perusal of this letter you may possibly be enabled to understand the objections of the Comr. and the object of this letter is respectfully to request of you an 
answer to their objections, and particularly that
Page 99

you would be so obliging as to give me an answer to the following questions.

1st  Do the Records in your office show that the was any but one Thomas Cotton an officer in the War of the Revolution?

2nd  Do not the amount charged as allowed & paid to Thomas Cotton in your books indicate that the payments made were made to an officer and for Military services?

3. Is then any thing in your office, which shows or which would arouse the presumption that there was another Thomas Cotton in the service of N. Carolina, or the Continental service, other than Capt Thomas Cotton?

4th Is there any thing in your office which induces the supposition, that indents when issued & which (I understand were transferable by delivery) were ever bought up, and then consolidated, and an indent for the aggregate amount issued in the name of the holder, and entries made thereof in the books from which you have made the extracts in the name of said Holder? or in other words could Capt. Cotton have bought up the certificate issued to his
Page 100

men & having consolidated them, have obtained a certificate therefore? and if so would such consolidated Certificate have been entered on the books from which you have made the extract?

5th are not the certificates themselves identical with the Indents, and are not the entries from  which you have extracted in your certificate mainly an evidence of the amount for which an indent or certificate was issued and did not then certificate or indents issued in Raleigh always issue to the person and in his name who performed the military service?

An early answer will confer a favour on Mr Jones and myself and the fee to be paid will be forwarded to you as soon as indicated.

Please return the fwd. letter with your answer

Very respectfully
Your Obt Sevt
letter with your answer
Joseph Bryan

P. S. Mr Jones reformed me that you had found your additional payments made to Capt Benj. Harrison. If so please send me a certificate with the amount of your charge & oblige J B.
Page 101

Comptroller's Office NC
August 16th 1851

Sir

I enclose to you a certificate of the Governor and Secretary of State showing that the statement heretofore made by me in relation to Thomas Cotton, was correct. They certify as to every statement except as to the payments (£9 and £19S7 £13S 10-) in book no 14 and (£11S5.) book No 24 being specie, this is undoubtedly the case, but it can be discovered only by a study of the book.

My predecessor Maj. Collins, is not in town or I would get his statement. I feel it due to him, however, to say, that the error into which he fell occurred very naturally, by his casting his eye to a charge on the same page above that which he was drawing off. As to my having found more payments than Maj. Collins, that is attributed to my having devoted more time to the search.

I have procured this statement to be made in order to vindicate my accuracy, had I supposed
Page 102

anything else called into question I should have assumed an attitude of defiance.

It may not be improper to remark that in my opinion, persons prosecuting claims, in your office, have a right to demand any evidence the records of my office may afford, and it is my duty to furnish them with it; tho' I would very gladly never again issue another certificate in any such case.

Very respectfully 
your obedient servant
Wm J Clarke, Comptroller

To James E. Heath Comm. of Pensions
Page 103

Washington City
Pension Office
June 17th 1845

Sir

In the case of Precilla Cotton widow of Thomas Cotton of Sumner County Tennessee I have filed the additional proof being the record proof from the record books in possession of the Comptroller of North Carolina which is of equal credit to the Commission.

In your reports on this as well as similar cases you have required that record evidence should be produced of the commissioned officers in the absence of the Commissioner and refused me to the Comptroller of North Carolina to furnish such evidence.

I am of opinion founded on law and justice that the proof furnished will entitle the Claimant to the highest rate of pension as the widow of a Captain.  I should like for you to take up this case and dispose of it while I am here.
Respectfully
A Fergusson

PS  the above opinion was expressed by the Comptroller

J S Edwards Esqr.  Present at office
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 104

Washington City
May 5th 1851

James E Heath Esq
Com. of Pensions

Sir

I have the honor to submit herewith the declaration of Allen Cotton Adm. of Mrs Prescilla Cotton decd. asking a examination of the claim of his intestate to a Pension under the act of congress of 4th July 1836. I respectfully ask that the case may be examined
and that for the purpose of properly submitting the case that I may have an opportunity of inspecting the papers on file and on which her pension was allowed.

With [illegible] [illegible]
Your obt. servt. Joseph Bryan
Page 105

Comptroller's office Raleigh N.C.
June 28th 1851.

Sir

In reply to your questions concerning the records of this office respecting militia officers of the Revolutionary War I will briefly reply that there are very few rolls of militia in this office, there was probably at one time, & they may have been lost at the burning of the Capitol about twenty years ago.

We principally derive our knowledge from the settlements made by different accounting officers at this office.  The payments were made on Indents or certificates issued by boards of commissioners or auditors which sat in different parts of the
state at various times, who settled the accounts of the officers and soldiers.  [the below underlined until the end.] These indents were by law receivable for all State dues and large numbers of these were paid into the Treasury by sheriffs in settlement of taxes, these indents were entered on the books, the names of the persons to whom they were issued, the amounts and the number of the indent, without the dates thereof being stated, except in rare cases, the dates of the settlement with the Comptroller can generally be as certained, 
though not always.
Page 106

You ask me how late militia were in the service. From the best information I can derive from various books and papers in this office they appear to have been in service until late in the year
1783 and it appears from a book kept by J. Hawkins Commissary of the Port at Hillsborough that he issued rations to militia troops as late as September 6th 1783.

I will also state that the indents or certificates referred to, or a remnant at least of them, are deposited in this office, but that they are in a state of such confusion as to defy all search.  A large portion of these has doubtless been lost or destroyed.

[Paragraph below underlined]
It may not be improper to state that the accountants appear to have carefully distinguished between payments made for supplies and then for service as they are either entered in separate books or where blended specifically stated.

I herewith sent you the certificate in the care of Thomas Cotton, which contains all the information I have been able after a long search to discover.  I feel confident that the payments made to him were for services & not for supplies.
Very respectfully Yours
Wm. J. Clarke, Comptr.

To W.E. Jones Esqr.
Eagle Hotel, Raleigh NC
Page 107

Carthage 6th June 1851

Sir

Inclosed please find a power of attorney of Josiah Walton administrator of the estate of Precella Cotton widow of Thomas Cotton who drew part of her pension in 1845.  Authorizing me to act for him as Administrator on behalf of her heirs.
I forward this to give you notice that the necessary proof has been fully made out by myself and Colonel Joseph C Guild of Gallatin the original attornies in the case to establish the claim for the balance due the heirs of the said Precilla Cotton and that I expect to have in a day or two for your city when and where they papers will be laid before you for your decision.  The reason of this step is that one of the heirs is said to be making efforts through his attorney William E Jones to get the pension into his hands which is not satisfactory to the ballance of the heirs.
I hope you will do nothing in the matter until I file the papers.  The amount heretofore paid was through the Administrator and distributed agreeable to the laws of Tennessee among her children and minor heirs of her children which was satisfactory and is the only way the [illegible] can be satisfactorily paid.  Be pleased therefore to issue no certificate until I come with the
Page 108

proof and if a certificate of pension is or has been issued I am directed to request of you to stop the payment until the matter is fairly understood by you and adjusted.  This [illegible] I deem my duty to inform you in order to prevent any future litigation as disatisfaction whatever I will be in Washington as soon as I can
reach there when I will give you full satisfaction on any disputed points.  By reference to her original papers you will see Col Guild and myself are the original attornies.  Be pleased to attend to the matter so soon as you receive this letter and I herewith inclosed the power of attorney as before stated.
Respectfully
A Fergusson

James E Heath Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
Page 109

Washington City
27th June 1851

Sir

I herewith file aditional proof in Suport of the Claim of Precella Cotton Widow of Thomas Cotton for the amount that should have been allowed in 1845 when her first payment was allowed and paid.

I respectfully state that I am the reginal as well as the present legally authorized attorny in fact to recieve the pension certificate  for whatever ballance May be allowed her heirs. I further Sate that there are Minor heirs of Precella Cotton who represent their parents and agreable to the laws of Tennessee will claim their proportionable I have with her living children.
That the first payment allowed her was paid by Josiah Walton her present Administrator and that Justice required that whatever ballance is allowed shall be distributed by the said
Administrator agreeable to law.

I therefore claim the right for the  benefit of her legal heirs through her Administrator Josiah Walton to receive the pension certificate whenever the same may be issued in preference to any other attorney.  I further respectfully ask if the rules of your office authorise it that when the certificate of pension is issued the same
Page 110

shall be issued to her only heirs and legal representative
to be distributted to them by Josiah Walton
Administrator of said Precella Cotton deceased
Respectfully
A Fergusson

James E Heath Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 111

to
HoReps_ May 5- 1842

My Dear Sir,

     You will please be so good as to read the enclosed letter, and give me the information desired in it- if the same can be obtained from any of the records in your office.  If not, you will please return me the letter and inform me, to what office of the War Department, I shall apply for the information, therein desired. 

Yours very respectfully 
K Rayner

J.L. Edwards Esq
Commis. of Pensions
Page 112

Comptroller's Office Raleigh N.C
March 24th 1845

I William F. Collins, Comptroller of Public accounts, do hereby certify, that it appears of record in my office, that the following certificates were issued in favour of Thomas Cotton for Military service, viz: one for two hundred and twenty one pounds, five shillings (£221.5s), found in Book F. No 2 page 38; another for two hundred and thirty two pounds, four shillings (£232.4 s), found in the same book, and on the same page: another for nineteen pounds, one shilling , and seven pence, (£19.1s.7d) found in Book No 14, Page 53: another for eleven pounds, fifteen shillings (£11.15s) found in Book No 24 page 72: and another thirteen pounds, ten shillings (£13.10s) found in appendix to Book No 14. page 5. All specie certificates. Given under my hand and seal the date above written. 

Wm. Collins Compt.
Page 113

4264
 Priscilla Cotton
Decd
wid of Thomas Cotton
Tennessee
Act July 4 '36

Increase from 
$200 to $480
as a Captain

Commencing Mar 4th 1831
Ending Nov 1st 1843

Allen Cotton Adm
for 
Self and brother Noah Cotton

Joseph Bryan
Washington
Page 114

Gallatin May 15th 1845
J L Edwards Esq

      I some two years ago forwarded the papers and sustained them by proof as well as the Capt Commissioner [illegible] of the claim of Mrs Percilla Cotton for a pension founded on the revolutionary services of her husband Capt Thos . Cotton, some additional proof was required by the department which has bee procured by Adam Fargeson Esq of Carthage. He is full authorized lawyer of standing and a gentlemen It is probably that he will be in the city of Washington this summer giving for allowance to [illegible] and other [illegible] business and before you will give him such [illegible] as may be in your power..  Respectfully & 
Jo C Guild
Page 115

Carthage Tennessee 
13th April 1843

Dear Sir,

     Joseph C. Guild esq of Gallatin and Mr. Walton of Sumner have agreed I shall endeavour to procure such proof as you may think necessary to establish the claim of Mrs Cotton to a pension at the rate of a Captains pay. You will please therefore to inform me what further proof is indispensable before a favourable decision can be had on her claim. Mr. Walton is the neighbour and  agent of Mrs. Cotton and the executor of the estate of her deceased husband.  

     I have not yet received any communication in regard to the claim of Mrs. Marjory Holmes nor the claims of Mr. Leauge Glanton- Maxwell- Metheny and others presented under act of July 7th 1838.  Please inform me of Mrs Cottons case as soon as practicable and the others if you have not already done so.

Respectfully 
A. Fergusson

James L Edwards, Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
Page 116

Hon. J. L. Edwards
Pension Office

[upside down]
W.B. Campbell
NC
Page 117

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County  }   suplemented proof in the matter of the application of Percilla Cotton for a pension-
This day the 28th of September 1840 in the county of Sumner personally appeared before me Richard Hobdy one of the justices of the county court of Sumner County Mrs. Mary Gambling aged about seventy seven years who being sworn on the holy evangelist of Almighty God to speak the whole truth and nothing but the truth- Deposeth and saith that she distinctly recollects of visiting the house of Thomas Cotton the husband of the said Percilla Cotton who is now applying for a pension in the fall of the year seventeen hundred and seventy nine in the county of Hartford North Carolina and at that time the said Thomas Cotton and the said Percilla Cotton were living together in the said year of 1779- as man and wife she frequently remained all night and there is no doubt but they had for some years previous been married that was the general reputation in the neighborhood  They had at said time 1779- three living children- Polly - now Polly Foxall Moore Cotton and John Cotton. She believes and perhaps a fourth though not certain who were about the house- The deponent further states the fact that she was married herself in the year seventeen hundred and eighty- and know the fact of her visiting the house of Thomas and Percilla Cotton- the first time the year previous- when they were living together as man and wife.  The Deponent further states that she was informed in North Carolina before she moved to this county and in the said County of Hartford that the said Thomas Cotton did serve as Captain in the revolutionary war. and knows of his being absent a long time and was then informed that he was serving
Page 118

the United States in the war, and she never doubted this fact. The Deponent was at the said house of Thomas Cotton when she was informed by the said Percilla Cotton and the children that her said husband Thomas Cotton was then in the service of the United States in said Revolutionary War as Captain.  
[signed] Mary her X mark Gambling 
Sworn to and subscribed before me this Sept 28th 1840. 
Richard. D. Hobday Justice of the peace in and for Sumner County State of Tennessee 

BB Harris aged fifty one years old in Aug] 1841- and William King aged seventy years who being [illegible] was legally sworn by me the said Richard Hobdy a justice of said court The said William King deposeth and saith that he has been [illegible] acquainted with the General Character of Mrs. Mary Gambling the above deponent and with her personally for forty years and the said BB Harris deposeth that he has a like acquaintance  for twenty five years and a  knowledge and they both depose and say that the said Mary Gambling has sustained a good a unimpeachable character and that her statement, are entitled to the fullest faith and credity- and that she is not incompetent from age or loss of memory or mind from correctly deposing to facts which have [illegible] [illegible] her observation-  
BB Harris
William King
Richard D. Hobday Justice of the Peace for Sumner County state of Tennessee 

Doctor Charles Speirs next appeared before me and after being legally sworn- deposeth and saith that he was born and raised in the county of Hartford North Carolina  he is aged about Thirty seven years - was residing in said county at the time that the court house and the public offices attacked there to  causing the public records of said county was consumed by fire- that he was present the morning of the fire and all the records was  the now consumed with the exception of such as was in the hands of the sherriff and perhaps an execution at the house of the clerk or [illegible]
Page 119

as he was informed and believed that morning - among the record  [illegible] when the marriage license and I think that this [ilegible] [illegible] he [illegible] the period of 1825 and 1826- he thinks about 1825. The clerk of the court Lewis M. Cooper gave him that morning the information in relation to the destruction of the record of said county by said fire.  CH Spiers
sworn to and subscribed before me Richard D. Hobday Justice of the Peace for Sumner county-

Hardy M Cryer a minister of the Gospel residing in the county of Sumner next appeared and deposed and saith after being legally sworn that he is well acquainted with the character and standing of  D. Speirs- Mary Gamblin Isaac Walton and Elizabeth Donul whose depositions have been taken in the case of Mrs. Percilla Cottons application for a pension and that their respective characters stand fair and that they are entitled to the fullest credit on their respective oath.
Cardy M Cryer
sworn to and subscribed before me 
Richard D. Hobday Justice of the peace for sumner county.

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County }
I Andw McGlothlin Clerk of the county court of said Sumner County do hereby certify that Richard D. Hobday whose name appears above is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said [illegible-covered by seal]   that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine.  In witness whereof I have herunto set my hand and affixed my seal of ofice at office this 16th day of October, 1840.  
Andw McGlothlin Clerk of Sumner County court
Page 120

Brief filed by
A Fuergusson Atty 
in fact of Josiah
Walton administrator 
of Pricilla Cotton
decearsed
Page 121

Claim of the heirs Precella Cotton
Widow of Thomas Cotton of
Sumner County Tennessee

Brief of the facts
in the case by Fergusson
attorney in fact of Josiah Walton administrator of her
estate who claims the possession and distribution of the Money

1st That some time previous to 1845 and in the lifetime of Precilla Cotton.
Joseph C Guild Eqr and Josiah Walton executor of the last will and testament of Thomas Cotton deceased filed the original Declaration in behalf of the widow for a Pension and the case was suspended for want of proof and that during this time Precilla Cotton died.

2nd That Joseph C Guild Esq. called in the aid and assistance of Adam Ferguson and promised him a fee if successful

3rd That Ferguson procured testamony and the records of the Comprollers office in North Carolina came on to Washington in June 1845 and showed services of Thomas Cotton as a Captain for more than two years perhaps three years in the War of the Revolution See Col Guild affidavit lately filed and upon this evidence a pension was granted for two hundred dollars per annum but being only a part

4 That Fergusson agreed to take this sum for the time being but was to prosecute the Claim for the ballance 

5 That the heirs were properly identified before the County Court of Sumner County [illegible] to wit Noah Cotton John Colton
Page 122

Arthur Cotton Polly Fox all and Allen Cotton then living
all resident of Sumner County State of Tennessee ecept Allen Cotton

6th That by the laws of Tennessee Administration is granted to the next of kin of the claim it; but if they do not claim when the deceased lived then the the County Court has full power to appoint any other suitable person 

7  that none of the heirs or next of kin claimed this right but prefered Josiah  Walton as he had settled up the purious estate as executor to their  satisfaction

8th  That said Josiah Walton was duly appointed by the County Court of Summer and entered in bond and sufficient Security as the law directs
was qualified and entered upon his duties as
such

9  That he distributed the amount of Pension that came into his hands agreeable to law and several heirs and distributed 

10 That said Jonah Malton is still the lawful administrator and claims the right to distribute all assetts whether arising out of any pension yet due or from any other source whatever Recending in right of the said Precilla Cotton and that he has not been removed or otherwise disqualified from acting as her estate both real and personal and that all choses in action by the common law and the laws of Tennessee righfully belong to him
as such - See laws of Tennessee

11  that all the above heirs resided in Sumner County up to their death except Allen Cotton who resides Davidson County and that Noah Cotton is
still living in Sumner County and that all the rest above mentioned are dead leaving
Page 123

children who are some of them minors and are entitled to a distributive share of whatever is yet to be recovered

12  That by the laws of Tennessee but one administrator can be appointed to settle up an estate unless where a debt is to be recovered for ones own special benefit to recover what justly belongs to himself but on no other consideration whatever the laws of Tenn

13  That the appointment of Allen Cotton in Davidson County Tennessee to recover any more of the Pension than his proportionable Share is void He can only recover his own share which is guaranteed to him by the Pensions
laws with or without the intervention of an Administrator

14  That Allen Cotton Cannot by any statute of Tennessee or Pension laws collect and part of the Pension for the other heirs unless by their consent in writing by power of attorney or in case of minors by the lawful
administrator or guardian first had and obtained

15  That the appointment of Allen Cotton in Davidson County does not supersede the appointment of Josiah Walton the regular Administrator and that before he can obtain possession of any of the funds belonging to the
rest of the heirs Josiah Walton must be removed from his administration a refuse to act

16  That Josiah Walton is bound by law to carry out the administration of Precilla Cotton in the first instance and that it does not appear that any administrator or Guardian
Page 124

duly appointed and qualifed is before the commissioner of Pension claiming the right represent the heirs of Polly Foxall Arther Cotton and John deceased

and that there is no legal right whatever conferred by law on Allen Cotton to claim or receive the Pension certificate or money allowed to the aforesaid heirs right of their deceased parents

17  That the rule of law and practice in Tennessee in the settlement of estates is to settle up all matters and things through the administrator who is bound to make settlement to the County Court and upon final settlement each distributes of lawful age receive his proportionable part and all minors have guardians appointed for them who receive their individual

18 That if the bonds of Josiah Walton are not large enough they can be enlarged to the satisfaction of the commissioner of Pensions and that the
amount of bond executed by Allen Cotton should be large enough before receiving his own part and that of his Brother Noah Cotton

19  and for other and good reasons in law the the said Josiah Walton administrator as aforesaid relies upon all rights as Administrator under the laws of Tennessee as if his specially set out and claims as he has a right to do
the possession of the Pension certificate when issued in behalf of the heirs of Polly Foxall Arthur Cotton and John Cotton although administration has been granted on each of their estate which he does not admit and requires record evidence of the last and in case they appear as adminitrators or guardians Still he has the right to the distribution and 
Still he has the right to the dishibution and
Page 125

and for as much as it may seem to the Commisson of Pensions that too much solicitude is manifested in the contention of attorney for the possession of the Pension certificate the undersigned attorney in fact in order to pay himself and his client of the suposition that they are interested by some part of what is to be  recovered by pledged to them They hereby agree and are willing on their part that if a certificate of Pension shall be issued to the heirs aforesaid that the same be placed in the hand of neither party now contending but placed in the hands of a disinterested person to be distributed by him agreeable to the laws of Tennessee and under the directions of the Commissioner of Pensions. And they respectfully recomend the Chairman of the County Court of Summer
County of the Clerk & Master in Chancery as the most satisfactory and legal receivers to give satisfaction. but they enter their protest against Allen Cotton receiving or any other person for him the certificate of Pension or the land included in the Same
July 12th 1851
AFergusson attor
Page 126

4264
Tennessee

Priscilla Cotton, deceased
widow of Thomas Colton,
who died on the 5th June, 1795
Sumner Co. in the State of Tennessee
who was a Captain in the             commanded by Captain        of the     by   
the N. Carolina line for 10 month

[paper folded over part] scribed on the Roll of Nashville
as the rate of 200 Dollars         Cents per annum,
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1834. & ending
1st November, 1843, the day of her death

Certificate of Pension issued the 29
day of August, 1845 and sent to A. Ferguson.
Carthage Tennessee

Arrears to the 4th of

Semiannual allowance ending
$2532.51
Revolutionary Claim
Act July 4, 1836
Section the 3d

Recorded by N.M. Steward Clerk,
Book C Vol 1 Page 198
-
Augt 30 1845. Repd to
Agt: by letter
Sir Hon W. A. Richardson 26th Jany 1850
T.T. Bryan Jun 23/51
Page 127

No. 2
Priscilla Cotton (Decd)
Revy 4 July 1836
From 4 March 1831
to 1 November 1843
$2531.98.

Aust Tenn-
3rd April 1845
Box 138
C 373

12 years, 7 months, 27 days

[stamped]
Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 128

Payment to be made
at Nashville
by Joel. M. Smith,
Agent for paying pensioners,
in the Agency of 
Nashville.

Recorded in the Pension 
Office, in Book C - Volume 1. 
Page 198 by
W M Stewart  Clerk

[stamped]
Final payment voucher
Received from GAO
Page 129

War Department
Revolutionary Claim

I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States, of the 4th of July, 1836, Prsicilla Cotton, deceased, who was the widow of Thomas Cotton, who was a Captain in the Revolutionary War, was entitled to a pension at the rate of Two hundred dollars per annum, commencing on the 4th  of March, 1831 and ending on the first of November, eighteen hundred and forty-three, the day of her death; which will be paid upon the production of the proper vouchers to Josiah Walton, Administrator for the sole [illegible] of John Arthur, Noah and Allen Cotton and Polly Foxall only surviving children.

[Affixed stamp illegible] Given at the War Office of the United States, this 29th day of August, one thousand eight hundred and forty five.  M. L Marcy Secretary of War

Examined and Countersigned} 
J. L. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions
  [ink stamp illegible]
Page 130

Know all men by thee present that I Josiah Walton of the county of Sumner and state of Tennessee Administrator of the estate of Pricilla Cotton deceased do hereby constitute and appoint Adam Fergusson of Smith County and State aforesaid my true and lawful attorney for me and for the benefit of the legal heirs and children of the said Pricilla Cotton to prosecute their claim to all arrears of pension  that ought to have been allowed and paid by the United States also to examine all papers on file at Washington City to collect all proof and records necessary to establish their claim and further to do and perform any act or acts thing or things to make the same valid and effectual in as full and compliat a manner as I or they were present and acting for ourselves and also when said claim is allowed to receive the pension certificate for our benefit with power an attorney or attornies to make and constitute to act under him to carry out the intentions herein expected and further this power of attorney is hereby made irrevocable unless by consent of the parties instructed in the same and parties thereto consent to do so and said Fergusson agency to the same Hereby ratifying and confirming all the legal acts that our said attorney should do by virtue here of hereby revoking all powers of attorney or agreements heretofore made by me. Witness my hand and seal this 2d day of June 1851  
Josiah Walton Administrator of Precilla Cotton Decd
Attest
William Parker
George a Wyllie
Page 131

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County  }

June term of the county court for 1851 being the second day of June aforesaid. ON this day personally appeared in open court Josiah Walton Administrator of Pricilla Cotton Deceased with whom I am well acquainted and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be his act and deed for the purpose therein contained.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at office in Gallatin the day and year first above written.  John L Bugg Clerk

State of Tennessee 
Sumner County }    I John L Bugg clerk of the county court of said Sumner County do hereby certify that Josiah Walton is the lawful administrator of the estate of Pricilla Cotton deceased and has given bond and sufficient security as the law directs. 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal as clerk of said court this 3rd day of June 1851.  
John L Bugg Clerk
Page 132

State of Tennessee 
Davidson County  }
On this 14th day of June 1857, personally appeared before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, Allen Cotton, Administrator of the estate of Priscilla Cotton dec'd (with whom I am personally acquainted) and made oath in due form of law that he is the Administrator of the aforesaid Priscilla Cotton decd, and as such on (or about) the [crossed out- 28th] day of April 1851, made a declaration before Judge Thomas Maney of the Circuit Court of Tennessee, in order to obtain an increase of Pension for the surviving children and heirs of the aforesaid Priscilla Cotton, of whom he is one, that he also at the same time made a Power of Attorney to Smith and Jones of Nashville Tennessee to prosecute said claim, that he is informed, and believes that a similar claim is about to be presented, or has been presented , by J. Walton to whom as Administrator the original pension of $200 per annum, allowed Priscilla Cotton decd, under Act of July 4, 1836 was paid. That the estate of affiants mother, the aforesaid Priscilla Cotton, has been long since settled up, and that the functions of the said Walton as Administrator have ceased. Affiant further makes oath that he only received one half of his proportion of the pension which was allowed their deceased mother, and that he is unwilling to  have any increase of pension, which is due, paid ot the said Walton, 
Affiant further  declares that he was appointed by the Court, special administrator of the estate of his mother, for the purpose of applying for and receiving any increase of pension which may be due, and that he has given bond and security for the faithful performance of his duty as administrator. Affiant therefore requests that the application made by
Page 133

him, in April last , through his attorney Smith and Jones, be taken up, and examined, and if allowed, that the certificate of Pension be forewarded to the aforesaid Smith and Jones, whose [illegible] powers as his attorney in fact Affiant hereby renews, and refers to his former declaration, for further particulars of the nature and extent of said claim, that (as therein states) there are only two surviving children of his mother to wit: Noah Cotton, and himself, and that he earnestly requests, that should said claim be allowed, the certificate of pension shall not be delivered to the aforesaid Walton or his agents, as he has every reason to believe that there is an improper interference in said claim, on the part of the said Walton, or others, and that thereby the said heirs will be forced to submit to an exhorbitant charge and expense for the recovery of said increase of pension.  
Allen Cotton [illegible]  of [illegible] Cotton D.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 14th day of June 1851
Josiah Ferriss

I do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Allen Cotton the above named affiant, and that he is in all respects a requtable and veracious person. Witness my hand this 14th day of June 1857  Joshiah Ferriss

State of Tennessee 
Davidson County}   I F.R. Cheatham, Clerk of the County Courts, do hereby certify that Josiah Ferriss Esq whose genuine name is signed to the foregoing certificate
Page 134

and affidavits is and was at the time of signing the same an acting justice of the peace in and for said county, duly elected, commissioned and qualified as such, and that full faith and credit are due and ought to be given to all his official acts such.

In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at office this 14th day of June 1851.  

F.R. Cheatham Clerk
By J.P. Cheatham D.C