Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 14555, for John Spracher, New York
Page 1

Service: New York
Spracher (Spracker, Spraker), John
Number: S. 14555
carded
Page 2

24,171
New York
John Spracher*
of Palatine in the State of New York 
who was a Private in the Comp. commanded 
by Captain Cook of the Regt commanded 
by Col. Klock in the §
line for 11 months and 27 days 

* John Spracker 
Records OK. Dec. 20/06.
§ N.Y. Line 

Inscribed on the Roll of New York 
at the rate of 39 Dollars 64 Cents per annum 
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831. 

Certificate of Pension issued the 7th day of Nov. 
1833 and sent to G. D. Ferguson 
Palatine 

Arrears to the 4th of Sep. '33 	$99.11 
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 M. '34 19.82 
[=] $118.92 


{Revolutionary Claim,}
{Act June 7, 1832.}

Recorded by Geo. C. Stiles Clerk.
Book E. Vol. 4. Page 87
Page 3

State of New York}
Montgomery County} ss. 	On this 19th day of Sept 1832 Personally appeared in Open Court before 
The Court of Common Pleas now Sitting John Spracher a Resident of the Town of Palatine in the County of Montgomery and State of New York aforesaid Aged 70 years and 2 months and 10 days who being first duly Sworn according to Law doth on his Oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7th 1832. 
That he Entered the Service of the United States under the following named Officers, & Served as herein Stated, Vizt at the commence of the Revolutionary War than [then] aged exceeding 17 years, and Emediently joined the Company of Militia, commanded by Capt John Breadbeg in Which John Zielly 1st Lieut, George Eaker 2d Lieut, the Ensign does not recollect, in the Regiment commanded by Jacob Klock Col,  Peter Waggoner Liet Col. Until after Oriskany Battle When Capt. Breadbeg got Wounded, When Lieut. Zielly afterwards Succeeded in Taking the Command of the Same Company Until in  October 25th 1781 When in Johnstown battle his sd. Capt. [illegible] been taken Prisoner by the Enemy, and that he this Claimant declares, that he Afterwards Continued in performing Military Duty Under Capt. John Dillenbagh in the same beat and Company until the Close of the Revolutionary War 
And that this applicant further declares that Emediently after the Commencement of the Said War, and after being Enroled, that he hath furnished himself With Sufficient Arms and acquipments conformable to the directions and orders from his Superior Officers and in Compliance with the Laws & Resolutions passed, as well by Congress of the United States [illegible] in the then Colonie or State of New York and that hath kept himself Always in readiness at a Moments Warning, and often and frequently did turn out in repelling the Incursions of the Enemy to our Country 
That the applicant first declares, that Emediently after the Commencement of the War, to the best of this Claiments knowledge and recollection, he thinks Early in Summer, he Enlisted in A Volunteer Company Commanded by Jacob W Seeber, who was his Capt as Early than in the year of 1775, that the Company was Organized, and kept and Trained for a Short Space of time in the
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Then Town of Canajoharie, now Town of Minden, then County of Tryon and Now Montgomery County, At the place called Fort Plain, When afterwards ordered to March to Fort Stanix [Stanwix], Making a halt or Stop at Herkimer, found Expedient To Watch & Guard the Inhabitance for he beliefs about two weeks, when after Marching to Fort Stanix [Stanwix], and there Continued until the full [?] and Term of Nine Months, for which time Enlisted, the Company was kept at hard labour for and during the whole time while at Fort Stanix [Stanwix]  procuring timber, and Working in Erecting the Fort. And this deponent further declares, that he continued in performing duty and Services in every Occurrence and Emergency, until, in June & July 1777 for about four Weeks. Ordered Under Genl Herkimer to March to Unendela [Unadilla] down the Susquehana River, With the Militia, there Mett [sic] Capt Brandt [Joseph Brant] [illegible], suposed with about 500 Wariours, there remained for four days. When Brandt with two Wariours came into Our Camp, Genl Herkimer & Brandt Mutually, treating in seperating, without taking Battle, if such had ust [?] proved to have taken place, Genl Herkimer with the Militia, not only the Services [?] of this Claiment but all present, Would have been compleatly under the Power of Capt. Brandt and his Wariours, but all allowed making [illegible - fife? "five?"] return to their respective families, at that [illegible] 
Again this Applicant declares that soon after their Campaign to Unadela Again ordered out to March under the command of Genl Nicholas Herkimer to Fort Stanix with all the Militia of his Brigade. When Genl St Leger with his Army hath been besieging the Fort, when Col Willet & Col. Gaensvoert had Command of the Fort, But ordered by the Genl before Engaged in battle at Oriskany, for him With others to return to Indian Castle, Guarding the Genl's [&?] his own habitation & family as well than others of the Inhabitants near about his own.  When Battle took place on the 6th Augt 1777.
And this Applicant further declares that he [illegible]time keeping himself in readyness [sic] at Moments Warning, and did perform varies duties and Services at different and Various times, Watching and Guarding Forts, Sometimes At some of Our nearest and Oten [Often?] at a distance. Guarding Against the Incursions of the Incendiaries, Vizt against the common Enemy of the Country State [?] in the year 1778.  This Applicant declares that he Enlisted Under Capt Leffeler who was and must have been Either appointed by Col. Lewis was Genl. Quartermaster or Col Yates Deputy Genl. Quartermaster in the State of New York, Employed & Commissioned, As Capt for Nine Months the [Season?] to take Command of
Page 5

Company of Batteaumen, for the Transportation of Provisions and Supplies for the United States Troops, in Service, and that he hath Continued faithfully Under his employ Under the Said Capt Until the full end and Term of Nine Months Transporting the Suplies [sic] & Engaged boating on the North River
And next in the succeeding two years Again this Applicant declares that he Enlisted In the Company of Batteaumen under the command of Capt. Samuel Gray excepting first year 1777 [illegible] down the Susquehana [sic] river for Nine Months early year Under [Sinclar?], Authority and Circumstances, alike the foregoing Which Under Capt. Loffeler, Excepting Boating and Transporting Upon the Mohawk River, Generally to Fort Stanix & that he declares both his Capts. are dead, and no more, and that no documentary Proof can be produced - Nor particular Witnesses, to Support his own declaration, in fact to the two Seasons Served under Capts Leffeller & Gray.
Next this Applicant declares that on the 22d day of May in the year 1780 he was Ordered Out with the Militia Col Klocks Regt to march to Cachnawaga Town of Johnstown but previous to their reaching Cachnawaga informed that Sr John Johnson with his Incendiaries, Vizt Tories & Indians had left Cachnawaga After Murdering, Scalping, burning & taking a Number of Prisoners, Vizt. Men, Women and Children, that this Claiment in pursuit of the Common Enemy, he beliefs [sic] under the Emediant Command of Col. John Harper to the the [?] Village of Johnstown when they saw the Enemy marching across the Hall Farm at a distance, near the Woods, presuming Col. Harper thought most adviseable in Saving the lifes, of all the Prisoners, in not pursuing them into the Woods. After, Women & children send back.
That This Applicant declares further that he was Ordered Out with the Militia To Join Col. Willet, At Turlough Now County of Schoharie, and Emediently [illegible] our Arival, Willet had taken Battle, Against a large Number of Indians and Tories in the Woods, finding one young boy near the encampment of the Enemy although Intented [sic] to have been killed and Murdered, but living and his Scalp taken off, taken Along on our return, afterwards cured &c.
Again this Applicant declares that he hath been at battle, at Johnstown on the 28th day of October 1781 than Emediently Under the Command of Col Willet which hath proved a Serious Conflict, a Number of lifes lost, and Many taken Prisoner but at last, Our men retained the Ground, and the Enemy again took the [illegible - woods?] he declares that many lifes were lost, And Prisoners taken on both Sides. The Applicant further declares, that he has been engaged in Beemis battle where Col Brown was slain in the field of Battle at its Commencement, Brown's Men Constraint to retreat, Sr John Johnson With his Incendiary Crew with more than Trible the force, in persuit of our men killed about 45 While retreating. 
And This Applicant further declares, that it is Out of his Power to describe
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All and each trip or perticular time date &c. No not one third of the various kind, or trips, performed, After an Elaps [sic] of more than halfe an Centre [Century] can be described by the Applicant, he further states that he was born in the Town of Palatine then County of Tryon, Colonie, now State of New York, where he resided for the Commencent, for and during, And ever Since the Revolutionary War, and that he this Applicant hereby relinquishes every claim Whatever to A Pension or Anuity, except the Present, And declares that his Name is not on the Pension Roll of the Agency of any State.
John (X his mark) Spraker
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year Aforesaid}
[Signed] Geo: D. Ferguson, Clerk 

We Isaac S Ketcham Clergyman residing in the Town of Palatine and David I Zeilly Residing in the Town of Palatine hereby testify that we are well Acquainted with John Spracher, who has Subscribed and Sworn to the Above declaration, that we believe him to be Seventy six years, 2 Months, & some days, that he is reputed and believed in the Neighbourhood where he resides that he has been a Soldier of the Revolutionary War and that we concur in the Opinion.
[Signed] Isaac S Ketcham
[Signed] David I. Zeilly
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid
[Signed]  Geo: D. Ferguson, Clerk 

And  the Said Court do hereby declare their Opinion after the Investigation of the Matter, and after putting the Interrogatories prescribed by the War department, that the above Named Applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and Served as he States and the Court further Certifies, that it appears to them that Isaac S Ketcham who has signed the preceeding Certificate is a Clergyman
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Resident in the Town of Palatine and County of Montgomery And That David I Zeilly who has also signed the Same is a Resident in the Town Palatine same County and is a creditable person and is Entitled to Credit, And that Henry Waufel who Signed an affidavit hereto annexed is a credible person & his statement is entitled to credit.
I , George D. Ferguson, Clerk of the said Court do hereby certify, that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of John Spraker for a pension. 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 26th September 1832. 
[Signed] Geo: D. Ferguson
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Jno. Spracher
13,662

Admitted
Private 11 mo & 27 days
45613.14.16

3 May 33
P.368

Geo D. Ferguson
Palatine
NY
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(13.662) 
BRIEF in the case of John Spracher 
Town of Palatine in the State of New York
 (Act 7th June, 1832.) 

1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? Open Court 
2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity? 
3. How old is he? 76 years 
4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed. 
Period | Duration of Service (Y-M-D) | Rank | Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served. (Gen.)
early in 1775 to the close of the War "periods" not distinctly stated | not stated so as to be varifed [sic] | --- | several [Generals] mentioned
5. In what battles was he engaged? at Johnstown in 1781 - & Browns [?] Battle 
6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? not stated
7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? only traditionary 
8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? not attached according to the regulations 
X Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case abovementioned. 
[Signed] E. Stephens 
Examining Clerk.
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Rev. and 1812 Wars Section 
EEL 
October 21, 1929 

Mrs. Frederick Leisch 
1040 Ashland Avenue 
Wilmette, Illinois 

Dear Madam: 
I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, S.14555, it appears that John Spracher, Spracker or Spraker was born in Palatine, Tryon (later Montgomery) County, New York, exact date not stated. 
While residing in Palatine, New York, he enlisted in the spring of 1776, and served at various times until the close of the war amounting in all to three years and twenty seven days as a private and batteauman under Captains Jacob W. Seeber, John Bradbig, John Leffeller, Samuel Gray, and John Dillenback, Lieutenants Zilley and George Acker, and Colonels Dayton, Cox, Jacob Klock, Lewis, John Harper, Waggoner, Brown and Willett in the New York Troops. He was in the battle of Oriskany, at the surrender of Burgoyne, and in the battles of Stone Arabia, Turlock and Johnstown. 
He was allowed pension on his application executed September 19, 1832, while residing in Palatine, New York, then aged seventy-six years, two months and ten days. 
There are no data as to his family. 
The above was taken from the original papers in the claim for pension of John Spracher and not from a printed volume. 
Very truly yours, 
EARL D. CHURCH 
Commissioner.
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John Spracher
38

Spracher, John
NY S14555

Spracher, John
NY S14555
Page 12

13,662 
BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims, of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of John Spracher which further proof or explanation. 
1. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? 
II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? 
III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so? 
IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served?  no
V. *Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amout of pension he is entitled?  no 
VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations?  no 
VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? 
VIII. Has the Court given their opinion? 
IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate? 
X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal?
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XI. Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolutionary service? 
XII. If the clergyman's affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtaining it?
XIII. If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one living witness, has he stated in that such proof cannot be had?  no
XIV. +If the applicant's name is not found on the rolls of military service, has he produced a witness or witnesses as to his service?  none
If he has produced direct proof as to service, has the magistrate who administered the oath, certified to the credibility of the witness or witnesses? [illegible response]
Has the proper officer certified to the official character and signature of the magistrate as the regulations direct? 
XV. Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant's service? 
XVI. ++Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct?   no
XVII. Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily? And if not, which of them is not so answered?  no [appears to be stricken]

EXPLANATORY NOTES. 
QUERE V. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words: "Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades; For ____ year ____ months, and ____ days, I served as a ________. For ____ months and ____ days, I served as a ______ ; and for such service I claim a pension.
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It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months is too indefinite , and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours; the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objection able. It must in every case be clearly shewn under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit. 
+QUERE XIV. Proof of Service. 
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimants entering the service, and the time of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which [obscured] the magistrate who may administer oaths must certify to the credibility of the within the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office. 
++QUERE XVI. Mode of authenticating papers. 
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other paper authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate. 
>>In every case where the clerk of the court, or other certifying officer, has no public seal of office, the certificate of a member of congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
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John Spracher, a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's [stricken]) application for pension on file in this Bureau. 

DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT | LENGTH OF SERVICE | RANK | OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED (CAPTAIN / COLONEL) | STATE

Spring 1776 | 9 mos. | Private | Capt. Jacob Seeber/Col. Dayton | N.Y.
June 1777 | 21 days | " | Capt. Jacob Seeber / Col. Cox | "  "
Aug 6 1777 | 15 days | " | Capt. John Broadbig/ Cols. Jacob Klock and Waggoner | "  "
Sept. 1777 | 1mo. 15 days | " | Capts. John Broadbig & Zilley/ [blank?] | "  "
1778 | 9 mos. | " | Capt. John Leffeller / [blank?] | "  "
* 1779 | 9 mos. | " | Capt. Samuel Grays Co of Batteaux/[blank] | "  "
1780 | 9 mos. | " | Capt. Samuel Gray/ Col. Lewis | " "
May 22, 1780 | 3 days | " | Lt. Zilley/ Col. John Harper and Waggoner | "  "
Oct. 19, 1780 | - | " | Lt. Zilley / Col. Brown | "  "
Oct. 25, 1781 | - | " | Lt. Zilley/ Cols. Willett and Waggoner | "  "
1781 | 3 days | " | Lt. George Ecker/ Col. Willett | "  "
1871 to close of war | 6 mos. | " | Lts. Zilley, Ecker & Hillenback / Cols. Waggoner & Klock | "  "
Battles engaged in, Oriskany; Surrender of Burgoyne; Stone Arabia; Turlock; Johnstown Residence of soldier at enlistment, Palatine, Montgomery Co. N.Y. 
Date of application for pension, September 19, 1832. 
Residence at date of application, Palatine, N. Y. 
Age at date of application, 76 years, 2 mos. 10 days; born at Palatine N.Y. 
Remarks: His claim was allowed. 
*In Sullivan's expedition against the Indians. 
The records of this Bureau fail to show a claim filed by the widow of John Spracher.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner

Dr. George Edward Barnes 
119-W. 43. St. 
New York, NY.
Page 16

Rev War
14,555
INVALID.

File No. 14,555
John Spracher*
Priv. Rev. War
Act: June 7" 1832
Index:-Vol. 1, Page 354
[Arrangement of 1870.]

*John Spracker
Records OK
Dec. 20, 1906
Page 17

26
Oct 23, 1905 History to Geo. E. Barnes, M.D.  A.E.P.
1905 October 26 - Dr Barnes advised no claim for Nellis or Nelles. MYK
1908 Mar 6. Dr. Barnes notified. that hist. was furnished on October 23, 1905
1910 Dec. 28. To Miss Lucia Dillenback
1912 October. 26. To Mary M. Wilkinson
1922 Mch 27 Hist. to W.W. Brown.
1929 October 21. Hist to Mrs Frederick Leisch EEL
Page 18

3-595.
O.W. AND N. DIVISION.
Department of the Interior,
Bureau of Pensions.
Oct. 24, 1905.
Searched by F.F.N.

Original No. [blank]
Certificate No. [blank]
Claimant, Wid. of
Soldier, John Spreacher or Spraker
Rev. War.

Remarks: No Rev. Wid Admt. or Rej. claim
Page 19

3-595.
O.W. AND N. DIVISION
Record Division.
Department of the Interior,
Bureau of Pensions,
March 2, 1908
Searched by S.D. Lamparter

Original No. [blank]
Certificate No. [blank]
Claimant, [blank]
Soldier, John Spraker, or Spracker
Service, N.Y.
Rev. War

Remarks: No claims as above except Invd. #14555
Page 20

Suplemental [sic] Declaration
For
John Spracher
Page 21

Lord one Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Three, Personally Appeared before the [missing]tine and County of Montgomery Aforesaid John Spracher of the Said Town of Palatine [missing - by reason] of Old Age and the Consequent loss of Memory, he cannot Swear Positively as to the [missing] not less than the Periods Mentioned below and in the following Grades;
[Missing- County?] New York State
[Title of column missing - Year?] | Country through Which he Marched | Place of Abode When he Entered the Service and Age | Remarks and Occurences | Evidence by Which the documentation is Supported.

[missing] | State of New York | Palatine, Then Tryon Now Montgomery County & Aged 77 years July 6th presently [?] By Family record | Then Enroled and Acquipt and Organized and frequently Mett by Company & Trained | Henry Haulfell [?] & William [illegible], Sworn To the Original Declaration the best Testimony Applicant can Obtain.

[missing] | Do | Palatine Montgomery County, same State | Enlisted Volunteer Compy According or in Compliance with Resolution Passed in Genl Convention, Under Capt. Seeber, first Mustered in then Town of Canajoharie, At Old Mr Seebers. Next Ordered to March to Herkimer there Stationed for two Weeks, all in Serving the United States, when the Capt. with his Company was Ordered to March to Fort Stanix [Stanwix], vizt to The  Carrying [?] place, there Stationed and kept in Acctual Service, Until the Expiration of the [three?] Months Under Genl Comd. Col Dayton Erecting & building the Fort & other Duties in the United States Service | blank]

[missing] | Do | Do | Drafted. Marching to Unindela [Unadilla?] under Comd Genl Herkimer, there Mett Capt. Brandt | [blank]

[missing] | [blank] | [blank] | Genl Herkimer & Majr. Van Slyke Slain, Majr Frey Seareously Wounded & taken Prisoner, Claimant Send back by the Genl to Guard his [missing] | [blank]
Page 22

Do | Do | Do | Time and Periods brought forth | Evidence

[missing] | N York | Palatine, Mont. County | Then drafted then Under Emedient Command Capt. Breadbag, Severely Wounded at Oriskany Battle Drafted when Lieut. Zilly Asumed Command of Said Company | blank]

[missing] | Do. | "  " | Enlisted for Nine Months under Capt. Lefeller, in the Service of the United States, Boating & transporting Supplied for the troops, on the North river | [blank]

[expedition?] | Do | "  " | Enlisted for Nine Months first Boating and transporting Supplies up the Mohawk, Fort Stanix & Fort Plain for the Supplies of the Garrison, next latter part of June & July under Genl. Clinton transporting Baggage and Supplies Genl. Suylvans [Sullivan's] Expedition, Not returned until forepart In the Winter Vizt. New years discharged.
Enlisted, United States Service under Capt. Gray, Transporting with Boats Supplies for the Garrisons Vizt. Fort Stanix, Fort Dayton & Fort Plain Excepting, Irroquis [Iroquois] sometimes procrastenated [??] in Consequence of the Cmmon Enemy, when Boatmen Joining the Militia, despersing the Incendiaries Otherwise Continually Engaged Transporting | [blank]

[missing] | Do | "  " | Genl. Conflagration at and Around Cachnawago, Situate Town of Johnstown, Mont. County, then Under the Emedient Command Col. Harper | [blank]

[missing] | Do. | "  " | Genl destruction at Stonearabia [illegible] Palatine; then leaving their boats at a distance of About 18 Miles, pursuing the Enemy, Joined Col. Brown, and Some of the Militia | [blank]

[Mostly missing] Battle, Majr. Ross | Do. | "  "  | Under Command of Col. Willet | [blank]
Page 23

State of New York}
Montgomery County} ss.
On the 26th day of July in the year of [missing]
Undersigned a Justice of the Peace of the Town of [missing]
County and State Aforesaid, who being duly Sworn deposeth and saith, that [missing] Precise lenght [sic] of his Service, but According to the best of his recollection he [missing]

A Statement Shewing the Service of John Spracher  Montgomery [missing]
Period when the Service was [illegible] | Duration of the claiments Service (Years/Months/Days) | Rank of the Claimt. | Names and Rank of the Company Officers | Names and Rank of the Genl. and Field Officers | Battles in W[hich] The Applicant Engaged

1775 | 0/0/0 | Private | Capt. John Breadbeg, Lieut. John Zielly, 2d Lieut. Jacob Ecker, Nicholas Van Slyke Ensn. | Genl. Nicholas Herkimer, Col. Jacob Klock, Peter Waggoner Lieut. Col., Majr John Frey, Majr {?] Van Slyke | [blank]

1776 
Do. Sometime In Spring | 0/9/0 | Private | Enlisted under Capt. Jacob Seeber | Col. Dayton | [blank]

1777 
latter part of June | 0/0/21 | Do | doth not recollect | Genl. Herkimer & Col. Cox | [blank]
Do until Augt. 6th | 0/0/15 | Do | Capt. Breadbeg | Genl. Herkimer, Col. Klock, Col Waggoner, Majr Frey & Majr Van Slyke | Oriskany Battle

[Tally at bottom not legible - 0/10/6?]
Page 24

[Continuation of previous page but left side of chart is cut off- starts with "Rank" column]
6 | Private | Do | Do | Do
5 | Private | [blank] | Genl. Gage | At the taking of Genl. Burgyne [sic]
0 | Do | Capt. John Lefeller | Under direction Genl. Quartermaster | [blank]
0 | Do | Capt. Saml. Gray | Do | Sulylvins [Sullivan's] Exp.
? | Do | Capt. Saml. Gray | Do | [blank]
3 | Do | Lieut Zielly | Col. John Jarper, Col. Waggoner | [blank]
2? | Do | Lieut. Zielly | Col. Brown | In Battle
0 | Do | Lieut. Zielly | Col Willet & Col Waggoner | Johnstown Against [missing]
Page 25

State of New York 
Montgomery County
Clerks office ss.
I, George D. Ferguson, Clerk of Montgomery County do hereby certify that Lawrence Marcellus Esq. before whom the foregoing annexed Amended declaration of John Spacker purports to have been Sworn, was on the date thereof a Justice of the Peace in & for said County; and that I am well acquainted with his hand writing, & verily believe that his name Subscribed to the said Amended declaration is Genuine 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this 15th August 1833. 
[Signed] Geo: D. Ferguson
Page 26

[Another incomplete page of John Sprachers Statement of Service]

[missing]ttle | N. York | "  " | By order of Col Willitt Arrived Emediently After Battle. where the Engagement was had with some of The Militia Against John Dockstander with about 300 Indians & some tories

" | Do | "  " | Impossible to describe different terms Garrison duty at different Forts, But exclusive of all the Service prescribed foregoing at Six Months Services performed for the United States as Aforesaid at least.

" | Do | "  " | Drafted to different Places repelling & Guarding against Incursions of the Common Enemy, exclusive of the Services prescribed before. Impossible to prescribe the different terms or lenght [sic] of time of Service performed during the Said time but at least did amount to 6 months duty done on behalf of his Country or United States.

[missing- "and for which Service"] I Claim A Pension
[Signature illegible]
Page 27

[Another - final-  page of John Sprachers Statement of Service]

1781 | 0/0/3 | Do | Lieut. George Eaker | Col. Willet | Turlough

From 1775 To 1778 | 0/6/00 | Boatman [?] | Generally, Capt. Breadbeg & Lieut. Zielly | Col. Klock & Col. Waggoner, Genl Herkimer until 6 Aug 1777 | "

from the year Including 1781 & 82 and 1782 to 1783 [?] | 0/8/00 | Privt. | Lieut. Zielly until 25th Oct & Lieut. Eaker until Close of the War | Col. Klock & Col. Waggoner | "

Total lenght [sic] of Service:  4/2/27 ( 2/3/0 disallowed) [=] 3/9?/27
and For Such Service ["I claim a pension"]

Subscribed and Sworn before me This 26th of July 1833
[Signed] Laurence Marcellus, Justice

State of New York}
Montgomery County} ss.
I, Laurence Marcellus the Justice before whom the above named John Spricker [sic] Swore to the foregoing affidavit Do Certify that I am Personaly [sic] acquainted with the said John and he is a man of truth and verasity [sic] and Entitled to full Cridet [sic]
Dated August 6th 1833
[Signed] Laurence Marcellus, Justice
Page 28

In reply to your request of ____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of John Spracher a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.   S. File 14.555 
DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT | LENGTH OF SERVICE | RANK | OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED (CAPTAIN/COLONEL) | STATE

Spring 1776 | 9 mos | Private | Capt. Jacob W. Seeber/Col. Dayton | N.Y.
1777 | 2 mo 21 days | " | Capt. John Bradbig/Cols. Cox and Klock | blank [NY]
1778 | 9 mos | Batteauman | Capt. John Lefeller/ Col. Lewis | blank [NY]
1779 | 9 " | " | Capt. Samuel Gray/ " | blank [NY]
1780 | 9 " | " | Capt Samuel Gray & Lieut. Zilley/Cols. John Harper, Waggoner & Brown | blank [NY]
1781 to close War | 6 mos | [blank] | Lt. Zilley & George Eaker, Capt. John Dillenbagh/Cols. Willet, Klock & Waggoner | blank [NY]

Battles engaged in, Oriskany, surr. of Burgoyne, Stone arabia, Turlock & Johnstown
Residence of soldier at enlistment, [blank]
Date of application for pension, [blank]
Residence at date of application, [blank]
Age at date of application, 76 years, 2 mos. & 10 days [illegible - born?]
Remarks: [illegible - Onlirone?] NY
Page 29

Rev Sec [illegible initials]

W. W. Brown. 
4051 Alameda Drive, San Diego, Cal. Feb. 20, 1922. 

The Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington, D.C. 

Dear Sir;- 
I wish to ask for information concerning the war record of John Spraker (No.14,555), as he was a great great grandfather and I desire to furnish evidence for eligibility to membership in the Sons of the American Revolution. 
It is believed that the records of your office (Book E, Vol. 4, Page 87) show that a pension was granted to John Spraker of Oswegatchie Farm near Canajoharie, N.Y. 
If the above is correct, will you kindly write me a letter stating the fact and also if possible, give the date of enlistment and discharge and any other information of interest to a relative concerning his war record. 
Mr. Frederick J. Haskin refers me to your office for the above information. 
Thanking you for the favor of a reply, I am, 
Yours very truly, 
[Signed] W.W. Brown

[Postmark] U.S. Pension Office FEB 25 1922
Page 30

Hastings, Nebr., Dec. 21, 1910. 

United States Pension Commissioner, 
Washington, D.C. 

Dear Sir: I am very desirous of obtaining the record of Revolutionary War service of John Spraker. He was born during the year 1757, on Long Island. He was granted a pension by the United States on Nov. 7, 1833. This is recorded in your office in book E, volume 4, page 87. I do not know the time of his service during the Revolutionary War, nor the arm of service in which he enlisted. I think he lived at the time of his enlistment in the Mohawk Valley, at Oswegatchie, St. Lawrence county, N. Y. What I desire is the date of his enlistment, the arm of service and rank in the service. 
Yours very truly, 
[Signed] (Miss) Lucia Dillenbach
Page 31

[Reverse of Dillenbach letter]
S. 14555
John Spracker
[Postmark] U.S. Pension Office DEC 24 1910
[Postmark] U.S. Pension Office DEC 24 1910
Page 32

OW&N  ay

11 A.M. TO 1 P.M. 
5 TO 6 P.M.
GEORGE EDWARD BARNES, M. D. 
 119 WEST 43RD ST. NEW YORK. 
TELEPHONE 4487-38TH STREET. 

Oct 10, 1905. 
Commissioner of Pensions, 
Washington, D.C. 
Dear Sir :- 
Will you be so very good as to furnish me with information about my great great grandfather, John Spraker (Spreacher), whose widow had a pension certificate? 
I should like also to know if there is, in your department, any record of my great, great grandfather Philip Nellis (Nelles).
They both served in
Page 33

struggles in the Mohawk Valley and were members of Col. Jacob Klock's Regiment of Tryon County, at least part of the time.
I thank you for "putting me on" information about great grandfather Elijah Barnes.
Very truly yours,
[Signed] George E. Barnes
Page 34

[Reverse of Dr. Barnes letter]

Postmarks: 

U.S. Pension Office OCT 11 1905
U.S.P.O. OLD WAR & NAVY FILES OCT 12 1905
Page 35

[Faint "assignment" stamp]
To Miss Wilson
Action ____
OCT 24 1912
COMMISSIONER

112 West 64th St., 
New York City. 

Commissioner of Pensions, 
Washington, D. C. 

Dear Sir: - 
I write to ask if you would kindly send me what information you have on record of John Spraker (or Spreecker) who was granted a pension November 7, 1833, by the United States for serving in the war of the Revolution. 
Thanking you, I remain, 
Yours truly, 
Mary M. Wilkinson 
Oct. 23, 1912.
Page 36

1040 Ashland Ave
Wilmette, Illinois

19"
U. S. Pension Office 
Washington, D.C. 

Dear Sirs: 
I am tracing my descent for D.A.R. records to one John Spraker who died in 1837 on June 13 and who fought in the Revolution as is proved by the fact that he was granted a pension by the government on Nov. 7, 1833. It is recorded in the U. S. Pension office in Book E, Vol. 4, page 87. 
Can you tell me if it is merely his pension that is recorded or if his life or the dates of any of his family are there also? 
Is there any place in Chicago where there is a duplicate volume to which I can refer or is it necessary to come to Washington? 
Any assistance that you can give me in this matter will be greatly appreciated. 
Most sincerely, 
[Signed] Elizabeth Simmons Leisch 
(Mrs. Frederick Leisch ) 

[Postmark] U.S. Pension Office AUG 19 1929
Page 37

Affidavit by
Col. Wm Foster
For
John Spracher
Page 38

State of New York} 
Montgomery County} ss. 	on the Nineteenth day of Sept. one thousand Eight hundred and thirty Two, Came before the Court Henry Wauffel, a resident of the Town of Canajoharie in the County of Montgomery aforesaid and Appeared in Open Court before [blank]
and declares, that he has been personly acquainted with John Spracher before, during, and after the conclusion of the Revolutionary War, that he this deponant saith That both, this deponent [?] hath been Enlisted in the war in the Company Commanded by Capt Jacob Seeber, almost at the Commencement of the Revolutionary war for Nine months, That the said Company was Stationed first at Seebers, near to where Fort Plain was Erected afterwards, -- enroled and put on the Muster Roll either in march or April  in 1776, next Ordered to march to Herkimer, there Stationed for some days, next to Fort Stanwix, there Stationed in performing Services, for Some time, then Again on an Alarm, Ordered down Along the river, and went Again to Fort Stanwix their kept on duty to the Expiration of Nine Months. 
That this deponent further States that after the year 1776 than [then] belonging to Company of Militia Commanded by Capt. John Breadbag in Col. Jacob Klocks Regt. that this deponent Saith that himself, and Said Applicant hath afterward frequently been called Out on duty, calculated to repel unto Guard against the incursions of the Common Incendiaries, Until the taken [sic] of Genl Burguyne In Oct [?] 1777 When both hath been there engaged with one army. 
Also this deponent knows that the said John, hath been Enlisted in the Bateau Service, twice to his knowledge for two Seasons, first in the year 1778 under Capt Lefeller for Nine Months, for one Season, and one Season, Under
Page 39

Capt. Samuel Gray Also in a Company of Bateaumen for Nine Months, Capt Leffeller, transporting Suplies [sic] for the Suply [sic] of the Continental troops, on the North and Capt. Gray up the Mohawk river to Fort Stanwix 
This deponant further declares and Saith that he knows That this applicant has been in Johnstown Battle Under the Command of Col. Willet, Against Majr. Ross with his incendiaries from Canada, which battle took place on the 25th Oct 1781 --- 
Finely [sic] this deponant declares, that the applicant and himself, have been belonging to One and the Same Company of Militia first under the Command of Capt. Breadbeg Until After the memorable Battle under Genl Herkimer at Oriskany when Capt Breadbeg was dangerously Wounded, then after Under the Command of Lieut. Zielly 
Always found him Acting in conformity to the orders of his Superior Officers, as Also in Compliance with the laws and Resolutions passed by both the General as well than State, Goverments [sic] - and further Saith not  Only that he always found the said Spracher a true friend to his Country and a good Soldier
Henry (X his mark) Wauffel
Sworn and Subscribed the day and year Aforesaid 
[Signed] Geo: D. Ferguson Clerk 
Crosswise, at bottom:
Affidavit of
Henry Wauffel
for
[cut off] of John Spracher
Page 40

State of New York} 
Montgomery County} ss. 	on this 4th day of Sept 1832 Personally before me Charles Waggoner one of the Justices of the Peace of the [Town?] of Palatine County of Montgomery, Aforesaid Came William Foster of the Town of Little Falls County of Herkimer, and said State, personly known to me, who being duly Sworn according to Law, deposeth and Saith that he was and has been personly Acquainted with John Spracher of the Town of Palatine, County of Montgomery Aforesaid Since the year 1777 and from that time to the close of the Revolutionary War and years Since. And that this deponent further Saith that he has been two Seasons Enlisted with the said Spracher in a Company of bateau [sic] Under the Command of Capt. Samuel Gray in the year 1779 & 1780 and we were Enlisted for Nine Months for each Season, and that We were kept faithfully employed in transporting Provision and Suplys for and up Along the Mohawk river, and [?] Particulary for the Suply of the United States troops at Fort Stanwix. And that in the year 1780, according to the best of his knowledge and belief as to [illegible] Genl. Sulvins [Sullivan's] Expedition to the West, in destroying the Indian Castles at the Same time dispersing the Indians, that this Company of Boatsmen With their boats have been Employed  to transport Provisions and Suplies down the [illegible] Until the enemy [?] approaching [?] to the Indian Countries [?] the Company leaving their Bateaus, and Joined the Army, aiding and [illegible] Until it [was] destroyed and the Indians put to flight.
And this deponent further Saith that himself and John Spracher then belonged to the Regt. Commanded by Col. Jacob Klock Militia and when not Expediently employed in Boat Service that [ilegible], went with the Militia, Guarding and dispelling [?] the common Enemy, Vizt. Guarding Against their Incursions, and that he this deponent always found the Said John Spracher to be an faithful friend to his Country as well than a good Soldier. 
And this deponant further Saith that the Said John Spracher is a man Considered where he is known, to be an person of truth and Verasity and to be believed when Under Oat. And further this deponant Said not.
[Signed] William Foster
Sworn and Subscribed this 4th day Sept 1832
Before me
[Signed] Chas. Waggoner Justice
Page 41

State of New York} 
Montgomery County} ss. 
I Chas. Waggoner, do Certify That I am acquainted with the within Named William Foster, Esq. And know him to be a Man of truth and Verasity And in every respect to be beliefed [sic] Under Oath. Given Under my hand this 4th day of Sept 1832 
[Signed] Chas Waggoner Justice

State of New York 
Montgomery County ss. 
I, George D. Ferguson, Clerk of Montgomery County, do hereby certify that Charles Waggoner before whom the foregoing affidavit of William Foster purports to have been sworn, was at the date thereof a Justice of the Peace of the said County. And that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice Subscribed to said affidavit is Genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal of office this 26th day of September 1832. 
[Signed] Geo: D. Ferguson
Page 42

[MISFILED]

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES 
Form VAM-51
12-5-41 
Division of Veterans' Administration Archives
BOUNTY LAND WARRANT RECORD CARD* 

NAME: Spracker [Spracket?], Thomas  GRADE: Private LINE: Pennsylvania
WARRANT NUMBER: 10446  ACREAGE: 100  ISSUED: March 21, 1795 to Christian Hubbard, assigned 

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