Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 25852, Stephen Watkins, Md.
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(3-1776)   SERVICE     NUMBER     Md.                    Watkins, Stephen      W. 25852.                           Sarah  B.L. Nt. 31.753-160-55.  CONTENTS
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17.705    Virginia R   Stephen Watkins, of Mononga Co, in the state of Virginia, who was a private in the regiment commanded by Colonels Smith & Hall of the Maryland ne (?Line?), for the term of four years.                                              Inscribed on the Roll of Virginia, at the rate of 8 dollars per month, to commence on the 22. of June, 1818.                                                            Certificate of Pension issued the 7, of Sept. 1820. [illegible] sent to Thomas P. Ray agent, Morgan town, Clk    Arrears to 4th of Sept: 1820.: $: 211.46     Semi-anl. all'ce ending 4. March, 48.   26 mos. 13/30 } 1821..(appears as addition total) $:259.46                                         { Revolutionary claim, Act 18th March, 1818. } and 1st. May, 1820
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[illegible numbers]4.369   Act March 3, June 21. Sarah. Watkins, md.   Stephen Watkins, Vir.       Capt. Jonathan Selman   Col [illegible]    Md.   Enl. 15. July 1777.   Dis. 20. May 1780            (overwritten diagonally on the text above is the following:)   No 31of 35 of June 30\56 }'55
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(text appears as pages of a book. the page on  the left reads as follows:)                                 Let. to. F. A. Werninger. Aug.,15th/ 54.  "  A. Armstrong Jan 21/56     Same Oct 7/58       Enlisted for 4th Md. Reg [illegible] 15 July 1777 & Dis. 4th February 1780- In court of Thos. Cashey- Register of Annapolis -  [illegible]                                               
   (the page on the right side reads as follows:)    4.396    Virginia, Richmond  Sarah Watkins widow of Stephen, Watkins Md who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private  Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 96 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.   Certificate of Pension issued 1st day of August 1854. and sent to C.C. Tucker Present.                                                   Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 131. Vol. A   (there is a number written perpendicular to the text:) 174369    (lower edge of paper is torn and has evidence of further, illegible text)
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Country of Monongalis  State of Virginia (sig) (illegible initials):  I, Marshall M. Dent,  Clerk of the County Court in and for the County & State aforesaid do hereby certify that it appears from the records of my office that Stephen Watkins (name underlined) and Sarah Miller (name underlined) were married on the 26th day of June 1804, by Robert Manley a minister of the Gospel.     Given under my hand & the Seal of said Court this 27th day of July 1854.   (sig) Marshall M. Dent    At a County Court held in and for Monongalia County, Virginia on the 28th day of March, 1838. "This day it was proven to the Satisfaction of the Court, that Steven Watkins (name underlined), late of this County, who was a pensioner of the United States, for services rendered in the war of the Revolution, died in this County on the 12th day of February last past; and it was further proven to the Satisfaction of the Court, that Sarah Watkins is the widow of the Said Stephen Watkins decd., and is now a resident of this County"    A Copy Teste    (sig) Marshall M. Dent Clerk    County of Monongalis  State of Virginia ss: I, (sig) Marshall M. Dent, Clerk of
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the County Court in and for the County aforesaid, do hereby certify that the foregoing order is a true copy from the proceedings of said Court as kept by the Clerk in the Order Book thereof, at the March term thereof 1838.   Given under my hand & the Seal of said Court this 27th day of July 1854. (sig) Marshall M. Dent    Fee 1.14. Paid. (sig initials) M.M.D.         
State of Virginia County of Taylor }  On this 28th day of July 1854 personally appeared before me David Baker a Justice of the peace in and for the County and State aforesaid David Kinkaid a resident of said County & to me well known as a creditable witness who after being duly sworn by me doth say that he was acquainted with Stephen Watkins deced. a resident of Mongalia County Va. who as I have always understood was a revolutionary soldier & drew a pension  for good many years before his death & I am also acquainted with his widow Sarah Watkins who is now & has been for several years a resident of Taylor County & who is now very old and  infirm & I know that she is still living and remains the widow of the said Stephen Watkins deced., I formerly lived in Mongalia County within three miles of the said Stephen Watkins & the Sarah Watkins lives at this time within three miles of my residence & I  further certify that I am not interested or concerned in the proceedings  [next word illegible and crossed out] in any way or Manner whatever in the result of this claim.    (sig) David Kinkaid  (sig initials)  [illegible].   (A handwritten squiggly circle appears with the word "seal" in the center of it.)
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Sworn to and subscribed before me, this day and year afore said and I certify that I am not interested in the prosecution or result of this claim in any way or manner.     Herein under my hand this 28`. Day of July 1854    (sig) David Baker J.P                                                          State of Virginia County of Taylor } ss                On this 28`. day of July 1854 personally appeared before me Jacob Hull a Justice of the peace in and for the County  & state aforesaid Isaac M Donald Sr. a resident of said County  [illegible] and a creditable witness to me well known who after being duly sworn by me sayeth that he was personally acquainted with Stephen Watkins dec.d a resident of Mongalia Co Va who was a revolutionary soldier & drawed a pension for a good many years and I further certify that I am acquainted with Sarah Watkins Widow of Stephen Watkins dec.d who is at this time a resident of Taylor County Va (the " a "in Va is underlined) & I believe the aforesaid Stephen & Sarah (there is a smudge here where last name has been written, but legible) Watkins to have been lawfully married & I know that they lived as man & wife & I further certify that Sarah Watkins has remained the widow of the said Stephen Watkins from the time of the said Watkins death to the present time & and that said Watkins lived on the waters of Booth creek Mongahalia Co Va (again, "a" is underlined in Va) & [illegible due to smudges] my hand this day & year above written & I further certify that I am not interested or concerned in any way in the prosecutions or result of this claim             attest (sig)Jacob Hull Jp    (sig) Amy J Shahan                              (sig) Isaac X (his mark) McDaniel  (there is a round shaped squiggle after the last name with illegible writing inside of it)               Sworn to & subscribed before me this 28` day of July 1854 & I certify that I am not interested  in any way or manner in the result of this claim (sig) Jacob Hull J.P
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Virginia, Taylor County.   I Adolphus Armstrong, Clerk of the County Court of Taylor County in the State of Virginia do certify that David Baker who has made and signed the within certificate of David Kinkaid's having been sworn before him is now and was when he made and signed said certificate an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County and State duly Commissioned & qualified as such; and that the signature to said certificate purporting to be said Bakers' is genuine,       In witness whereof I do hereto set my hand and affix the seal of my office this 29` day of July 1854. (sig) A. Armstrong Clk    (on the left of the last signature there is a very faded seal and the words: COUNTY COURT are barely visible)          Virginia   Taylor County, I Adolphus Armstrong Clerk of the County Court of Taylor County in the State of Virginia do certify that Jacob Hull who has made and signed the within certificate of Isaac McDaniels having been sworn before him is now and was when he made and signed said certificate an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County of Taylor and State of Virginia duly Commissioned and qualified as such and that the signature to said certificate purporting to be said Hulls' is genuine.    In witness whereof I do hereto set my hand and affix the seal of my office this 29` day of July 1854.      (sig) A. Armstrong Clk   ( to the left of the last signature appears to be a seal, very faded with no markings legible)
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State of Virginia  County of Taylor } S.S       On this 11th day of July A. D 1854 presonally appeared before me a Justice of the peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, Mrs Sarah Watkins ( previous proper name was underlined) a resident of the County and State aforesaid, aged Seventy Six years, who being duly sworn according to Law, doth on Oath ( last word underlined) make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made   by the Act of Congress, passed on the 3d day of February 1853,granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the revolutionary War; That she is the widow of Stephen Watkins (proper name underlined) who was a private in - Company - regiment in the revolutionary war. The time and place her said husband entered and left the service, the name an rank of the officers under whom her said husband performed - rendered service she does not recolect, all of which will fully appear by referance to the papers filed with the application of her said husband for pension under act of Congress of 18th March 1818 That her said husband was revolutionary pensioner of United States under the act aforesaid, [illegible] the amount of his said  pension up to the last semianal payment before his death    She further declares that she was married to the said Stephen Watkins (proper name underlined) on the 26th day of June 1804, Eighteen hundred and Four, that her said husband died ( last word underlined) at his residence in Monongalia County Virginia on the 12th day of February 1839; that she was not married to him prior to the Second day of January Eighteen hundred, but at the time above stated, she further declares that she is now a widow.     Teste  (sig) Jacob Hull Jp   (sig)  George Miller   (sig)  Sarah X her mark Watkins
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The [illegible] foregoing declaration of Sarah Watkins was sworn to and subscribed (previous word underlined) before me on this 11th day of July 1854 and thereby Certify that I well know Sarah Watkins the within applicant, and from bodily infirmity - being old and afflicted with rhumatism so as to be almost helpless, & has been so afflicted for a number of years, and therefore is unable to attend Court  She has not been able to go out of her yard for the last [illegible] years.     Given under my hand this 11th day of July 1854.   (sig) Jacob Hull J.P  Know all men by these presents, That I Sarah Watkins of Taylor County Va ("a" is underlined) do hereby Constitute and appoint F. A. Henninger of Clarksburg Va ("a" is underlined) to be my attorney (with power of Substitution) to prosecute to a Conclusion this my Claim to pension, revoking all former power of Attorney given by me, Ratifying all that they may lawfully do on the premises.     (sig) Sarah X her mark Watkins       Teste  (sig) Jacob Hull J.p   (sig) George Miller }  That said party Sarah Watkins this day acknowledged before me, the above Power of Attorney to be her act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned    Given under my hand this 11th day of July 1854.   (sig) Jacob Hull J.P
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Virginia  County of Taylor }   To wit on this 12th day July 1854 personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace in and for the County & State afore said Brice G. Watkins also of said County and State, to me well known to be a man of Credability, who being duly sworn according to Law Made Oath (last 2 words are underlined), that he well knew Stephen Watkins deceased, that he died (last word is underlined)at his residence in Monongalia County Va (last "a" is underlined) on the 12th day of February 1839, (or about that time, and left a widow Sarah Watkins. (whose application for pension this accompanies) and that she has remained his widow ever since the death of her said husband.                                         (sig) Brice. G X his mark Watkins        Teste  (sig) Jacob Hull Jp   (sig) Jedediah Sayre   Sworn to and Subscribed before me on the day and year above written. (sig) Jacob Hull J.P  Virginia, Taylor County Court     I Adolphus Armstrong Clerk of the County Court of Taylor County in Virginia do hereby certify that Jacob Hull who has made and signed the foregoing Certificates is now and was when he made and signed said Certificates an acting  [illegible] Justice of the peace in and for the said County of Taylor duly Commissioned and qualified; and that the signature to said Certificates purporting to be said Hulls is genuine, In witness of which I hereto set my hand & affix the seal of my office this 22` day of July 1854  (sig) A. Armstrong Clk    (in the lower left hand side of page there appears to be a round, faded mark-likely the seal of office referred to in last sentence)
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174. 369.  (number is underlined)  (The following appears to be a preprinted form, with no text filling the categories.) BOUNTY LAND CLAIM.  ACT OF (blank)  MRS. (blank)  WIDOW OF (blank)  CAPT. (blank)   CO. (blank)     The above form does, however, have a round, faded  mark that may have been a seal of some kind.)     (At the very bottom of the page appears printed:) Charles C. Tucker, Attorney, Present.
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WIDOW'S BOUNTY LAND CLAIM.     STATE OF Virginia  Taylor COUNTY } ss.    On this 1 day of May 1855, personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, Sarah Watkins aged near 76 years, resident of Taylor County in the State aforesaid, who being duly sworn declares that she is the widow of Stephen Watkins deceased, who was a private in the company commanded by Captain Johithan Selman in the Regiment of ------- commanded by Conerl Hall in the war of the Revolution  that her said husband enlisted (as she understands) at ------ in the State of Maryland on or about the 15th day of July 1777 (large smudge) for the term of Three years and was honorably discharged at on or about the 20th day of May 1780, as will appear by (last word crossed out) she thinks the Muster Rolls of said company.    She further states that she was married to the said Stephen Watkins at Booths creek (last 2 words crossed out) on the 26th day of July 1804 I (letter crossed out), by one Manly a minister of the gospel and that her name before her said marriage was Sarah Miller : that her said husband died at Booths creek on the she thinks, 12th day of February 1839, and that she has remained a widow since his death. for further particulars of said service reference is made to the papers on which her said in his lifetime arrived a pension of on which she is now drawing at the rate of 96/ per Anum.   She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the Bounty Land to which she may be entitled under the Act passed March 3r. 1855 never having received Bounty Land or knowing that she is entitled except for the above service, and she believes that no Bounty Land was ever received by her said husband. She hereby revokes any application for Bounty Land previously made, or that may have heen heretofore presented in her name, and she does by these presents constitute and appoint G E Jarvis of [illegible]  Co. Va ("a" is underlined in Va), her true and lawful attorney, to prosecute the above mentioned claim and to receive for her benefit the Bounty Land Warrant to which she may be entitled.         (sig) Sarah X her mark Watkins     Witnesses     (sig) George Miller   (sig) Wm A Freeze         (sig) Elizabeth X her mark Miller  (sig) Wm. W. Overfields       Sworn to , subscribed, and acknowledged before me the day and year first above written, and on the same day personally came before me William Overfield a resident of Taylor County, in the State above
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named, and William A Freeze a resident of Taylor County in said State, to me known as credible witness, who being duly sworn declare that they are personally acquainted with Sarah Watkins widow of Stephen Watkins who has made and subscribed the foregoing declaration: that they were personally acquainted with  Stephen Watkins and his wife during the life-time of the former and know that they have lived together as man and wife and to be so reputed, and they believe that the husband of the said Sarah Watkins was the identical person who performed the military service mentioned in the above declaration: that the above named Stephen Watkins is now dead, and the said Sarah Watkins has remained a widow since his death: And they further swear that they are disinterested.      (sig) Wm. W. Overfield    (sig) Wm A Freeze     Sworn to, and subscribed before me: and I certify that I am not interested in the result of this claim or concerned in its prosecution. (sig) Lewis Harmond J.P
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STATE of VIRGINIA  County of Taylor } ss.  I, A. Armstrong Clerk of the County Court in and for the County and State above mentioned, do hereby certify that Lewis Haymond Esq., before whom the foregoing affidavit was made and who has thereunto signed his name was at the time of so doing a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn, and that all his official acts as such  are entitled to full faith and credit.    In testimony whereof, I have hereunto signed my name and affixed my official seal this 30` day of May A.D. 1855.   (sig) A. Armstrong  (to the left of this signature is a faded, round mark with no legible writing, likely remnants of a seal)  NOTE- If the affidavit is made before a Notary Public, and his Notarial seal is affixed thereto, the above certificate is unnecessary   INSTRUCTIONS  If the soldier's certificate of discharge is forwarded there should be added after the words (the following is in italics:) by the muster rolls of said company.(end italics) in the declaration the words--" and his certificate of discharge herewith presented". If none was received, there should be added,--" No certificate of discharge having been received." If a discharge was received and has been lost, add--"his certificate of discharge having been lost or mislaid.    If there is any public record of the marriage, a duly certified copy of such record should be forwarded, if possible.  If  there is no public, but a private or family record, it should be so stated in the declaration after the words--(the following is in italics:) remained a widow since his death,(end italics) and such family record or a certified copy of the same should be forwarded with the affidavit of some disinterested person, proving the genuineness of the original and that the copy certified is a true and correct copy of it.  If no public or private record of the marriage exists, or can be obtained, that fact must be stated in the declaration.
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(this page appears to be folded lengthways similar to pages of a book) (the lefthand side reads as follows:)   It will be necessary to explain, why the declaration having been made in June 1818 (last 3 words were underlined)- was not certified to; (last 2 words underlined) and forwarded to this office at that time. (last 3 words underlined)  27 June 1820 (date is underlined) (the righthand side of page is as follows:) Stephen Watkins Monongalia Co. Va (small "a" is underlined) original declaration, 22d. June 1818. Col's. Smith & Halls reg u. Maryland line, May, 1776 to May, 1780. Service proved from the rolls of Maryland Worth 43 25/100 Admitted.  Thos. P. Ray, agt  Morgan town, Va, dec,d 15 Aug. 1820.  (the name Stephen Watkins is written perpendicular to this page along the edge)
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Virginia.  Be it remembered, That at a court held for the County of Monongalia, at the Courthouse of the said county, on monday the 22d. day of June in the year One thousand, eight hundred and eighteen, personally appeared Stephen Watkins aged about sixty five years, resident of the said county of Monongalia. who being sworn on the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God, before the said court, doth on his oath make the following declaration for the purpose of obtaining the benefit of the provisions of a late act of Congress entitled  "an act to provide for certain persons engaged in the Land and Naval Service of the United States in the Revolutionary war", "'that he the said Steven Watkins enlisted as a soldier in Annarundel county State of Maryland about May 1776 under Cap' Jonathan Selman of the United States troops and joined the army at Annapolis in the 4th regiment under Col"s Smith and Hall in the Second Brigade of the Maryland line under Genl,, Gisst that he then marched to New York, was in the battle on Long Island in August 1776. and at the battle of the white -plains in the same year- that he was also in the battle of Monmouth and continued in the Regular Service until he was discharged at West point in May 1780. that he has lost his discharge, that he is not well able to support himself by labour. being much disabled, and has no land, and therefore stands in need of the aid of his country for support-"  And, It is ordered to be certified, that it appears to the satisfaction of this court, that the said Stephen Watkins did serve in the Revolutionary War, against the common enemy as stated in the proceeding declaration, for the term of four years on the Continental establishment, and that the said Stephen Watkins is unable to support himself and is in absolute need of the assistance of his country for support and transmit the proceeding taken before this court, to the Secretary of the Department of War  (at the bottom righthand corner of page are initials:) Jp
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Testimony of the foregoing being a correct extract. from the records of the aforesaid court   I Nimrod Evans, clerk of the said court have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said court. at Morgan Town, the 13th,, of April A.D. 1820 and 44th,, year of the Commonwealth. (sig) N,, Evans  [illegible]  ( on the lefthand side of the page is a star shaped, torn, faded remnant of what was likely a seal)
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(document is handwritten) 
Virginia, Be it remembered, that at a County court held in and for the County of Mononalia, at the courthouse of the said county on tuesday the 27th. of June, in the year 1820, personally appeared in open court,~being a court of record, which proceed according to the courts of the common law, with a juresdiction unlimited in point of amount. keeping a record of its proceedings~ Stephen Watkins. aged upwards of  Sixty seven years, resident of said county,  who being first duly sworn according to law; doth on his oath declare . that he served in the Revolutionary war as follows - That he was enlisted as a private soldier, in the State of Maryland, Annarundal county, about the month of May 1776 by Capt Jonathan Sellman, of the United States troops. and joined the army at Annapolis in the 4th regt under Cols Smith and Hall in the Second Brigade of the Maryland line  under Genl. Gist. that he then marched to New York, was in the Battle on Long Island in August 1776 in the battle of the White plains in the same year, and in the battle of Monmouth courthouse and continued in the Regular service until he was discharged at West point in May 1780, that he kept his discharge a long time, but has lost it, taking no particular care of it, Supposing that it never would be of any use to him, and that he has no other evidence in his power of his said services, that he made a declaration in order to obtain the provissions of the act of Congress of the 18th of March 1818, before the aforesaid court on the 22d. of June in the year 1818_
And I do solemnly swear, that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th. of March 1818, and that I have not since that time  by gift, sale, or in any manner dispersed of my property or any part thereof,
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(document is handwritten) 
Virginia, Be it remembered, that at a County court held in and for the County of Mononalia, at the courthouse of the said county on tuesday the 27th. of June, in the year 1820, personally appeared in open court,~being a court of record, which proceed according to the courts of the common law, with a juresdiction unlimited in point of amount. keeping a record of its proceedings~ Stephen Watkins. aged upwards of  Sixty seven years, resident of said county,  who being first duly sworn according to law; doth on his oath declare . that he served in the Revolutionary war as follows - That he was enlisted as a private soldier, in the State of Maryland, Annarundal county, about the month of May 1776 by Capt Jonathan Sellman, of the United States troops. and joined the army at Annapolis in the 4th regt under Cols Smith and Hall in the Second Brigade of the Maryland line  under Genl. Gist. that he then marched to New York, was in the Battle on Long Island in August 1776 in the battle of the White plains in the same year, and in the battle of Monmouth courthouse and continued in the Regular service until he was discharged at West point in May 1780, that he kept his discharge a long time, but has lost it, taking no particular care of it, Supposing that it never would be of any use to him, and that he has no other evidence in his power of his said services, that he made a declaration in order to obtain the provissions of the act of Congress of the 18th of March 1818, before the aforesaid court on the 22d. of June in the year 1818_
And I do solemnly swear, that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th. of March 1818, and that I have not since that time  by gift, sale, or in any manner dispersed of my property or any part thereof, with intent thereby to diminish it. as to bring myself within the provissions of an act of Congress entitled  An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary war, passed on the 18th. of March 1818. and that I have not nor had
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(this document is all handwritten)
any person in trust for me, any property or securities. contracts or debts due to me nor have I any income, other than what is contained in the following schedule and by me subscribed [illegible]. 
One colt~~two plows and gears
3 hoes~~two axes
four pewter plates and a few dishes
(except indifferent beds & wearing apparel) 
(signed.) Stephen X his mark Watkins
That he has no trade or occupation by which he is enabled to support himself, that he lives upon a small piece of land near the Laurel hill. the property of Wm. G. Payne, that the following are the names and ages of his wife and children living with him Sarah Watkins aged 43years~ James, 16 years, Francis 15 years, Arthur 13 years, Thomas 10 years, Stephen 8 years Gasway 6 years and Hannah 3 years. that he finds it extremely difficult to find bread for so many young children, that he is very poor indeed and in very indigent circumstances, that for several years past he is fast declining. that at present he is scarcely able to walk a few miles that he has a few neighbors. who have for two years past. very much contribute to his support,  and to those he has promised payment under the expectation of getting the reward, which this government has so liberally bestowed upon the faithful  Revolutionary soldier
Sworn to. and declared. on the day and year aforesaid, before the aforesaid County court of Monongalia-
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(this document is handwritten with the exception  of a faded round seal with illegible printing on the lefthand border of the page)
Virginia, I Nimrod Evans, clerk of the County court of Monongalia, do certify: That the foregoing oath. and the schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the records of the said court: and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid schedule is forty three dollars 25 cents- In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said court, at Morgan town, the 28th,, of June in the year 1820, and 44th year of the Commonwealth. (sig) N. Evans Clk,, Cy,, C,, of Monga
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(this appears to be primarily a typed letter. a few handwritten markings will be noted.)
 March 12, 1943 Stephen Watkins (name underlined by hand and a handwritten illegible set of initials are written underneath name)
 W. 25852  BA-J/ MLB
Mr. J. C. Watkins  Kanawha Falls  West Virginia
Dear Sir:  Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of Stephen Watkins, of Anne Arundel County, Maryland, and after the war moved to Monongalia County, Virginia. His record follows as found in the papers on file in pension claim, W. 25852, based upon his service in the Revolutionary War. The date and place of soldier's and names of his parents are not shown. Stephen Watkins enlisted in May, 1776, in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, served as private in Captain Jonathan Sellman's  company, Colonels (the "s" in previous word is crossed out to signify singular) Smith's and ( previous 2 words are circled) ( handwritten in the left margin is the following:)  [illegible] Smith next there; he was the Lt. Col.) Hall's 4" Maryland Regiment,  was in the battles of Long Island, White Plains, and Monmouth, and was discharged May 20, 1780.  He was allowed pension on his application executed June 22, 1818, at which time he was aged about sixty-five years and a resident of Monongalia County, Virginia, where he was still living in 1820. The soldier died February 12, 1838, at his residence on Booth's Creek in Monongalia County, Virginia.   Stephen Watkins married June 26, 1804, Sarah Miller, in Monongalia County, Virginia, where the marriage was recorded in the County Clerk's Office.  Soldier's widow, Sarah Watkins, was allowed pension on her application executed July 11, 1854, at which time she was aged seventy-six years and residing about five miles from the county seat of Taylor County, Virginia. In 1855 she was still residing in
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(text is typed)
Taylor County, Virginia. She died August 13, 1855.   In 1820 the following children of Stephen Watkins were referred to: James aged sixteen years, Frances aged fifteen years, Arthur aged thirteen years, Thomas aged ten years, Stephen aged eight years, Gasway aged six years and Hannah aged three years.   In 1854, one Brice G. Watkins was a resident of Taylor County, Virginia, relationship to the family not stated.    In the same year, Margaret O. Miller and George Miller acted as witnesses in the pension claim of soldier's widow, Sarah, their relationship to her not stated.   In 1855, George Miller and Elizabeth Miller acted as witnesses for soldier's widow, Sarah' relationship to her not shown.   Very truly yours   A. D. Hiller  Assistant to Administrator
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(document is handwritten)
County of Monongalia State of Virginia, [illegible initials];   I, Marshall M. Dent, Clerk of the County Court in and for the County and State aforesaid do hereby certify that it appears from our record of the returns of Marriages in my office that Stephen Watkins was married to Sarah Miller on the 26th day of June 1804. by Robert Manley, a Minister of the Gospel.   In testimony whereof I have affixed the Seal of said Court hereto this 18th day of July, 1854.   (sig) Marshall M. Dent 
Fer, 47cts 
      .20
     .67
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Declaration of Mrs. Sarah Watkins widow of Stephen Watkins deceased  For Revolutionary Pension under the Act of February 3r. 1853 or any other under which she may be [illegible] ~~~~~State of Virginia County of Taylor} ss: On this 18th day of July 1854, personally appeared before me Harmon Sinsell presiding Justice for the County court of the County and State above named, Sarah Watkins a resident of  Taylor County in the State of Virginia aged 76 years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed Feb 3rd. 1853 granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the revolutionary war. That she is the widow of Stephen Watkins who was a soldier in the Revolutionary war & who drawed a pension for a number of years before his death  I think the first pension for him was drawn by Thomas P Ray and after the decease of Ray was drawn by George Mc Neely both of Morgantown Monongahalia County Va.~~~~~~~~~~~~~ [Act 1818- page 82, printed Roll-]
She further declares that she was married to the said Stephen Watkins on the 26th day of she thinks, May A.D. one thousand eight hundred and four at the house of Thomas Wells in Mongahalia Co Va by one Rev. Manly a Preacher that her name before her said marriage was [space to insert maiden name here is left blank] and that her husband, the aforesaid Stephen Watkins died on Booths creek Mongahelia Co Va on the 12th day of she thinks February A.D. 1839 and that she has remained a widow since the death of her said husband. ( the following 2 sentences are  written then crossed out:) Given under her hand [illegible]. above written (end of crossed out text) (sig) Sarah Watkins X her mark (there is a small round scribble with the word "seal" written inside of it next to Sarah Watkins name)    attest   Margaret O Miller  George Miller    Sworn and subscribed before me and in my presence this 18` July of AD 1854   [sig]       Harmon. Sinsel Presiding justice for the county court of Taylor county (written perpendicular to the above text on the left hand margin, with an arrow pointing to the date of death of Mr. Watkins is as follows:) July 2. 1828 on printed Roll, but evidently refers to the name above it , as will be seen by reference to the amounts each had received up to 1834.
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(the following is handwritten)
Virginia, Taylor County Court Clerks' office,  I Aldophus Armstrong Clerk of said Court do certify that Harmon Sinsal Esq. who has made and signed the certificates annexed to the hereto annexed declaration and Power of attorney is now and was when he made and signed said certificates an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County of Taylor duly commissioned and qualified: and as such Justice Presiding Judge of this County Court of said County and that said Sinsel when he made and signed said certificates has by the law of Virginia full power to a administer oaths & take acknowledgement of deeds and other instruments: and that the signatures to said certificates purporting [illegible] said. Sinsels' are genuine,   In witness whereof I do hereto set My hand and annex the seal of My office this 18 day of July 1854. (sig) A. Armstrong Clk

(the following is a preprinted form, which has been filled out in handwriting and aligned perpendicular to the notations above)
preprinted: CLAIM FOR PENSION. Act of handwritten: Feb 3, 1853
Page 28

Know all Men by these Presents, that I, Sarah Watkins of the County of Taylor and the State of Virginia do hereby constitute and appoint Chas. C. Tucker, ,of Washington, D.C., my true and lawful agent and attorney, for me, and in my name to prepare and prosecute my claim for a Revolutionary Pension by reason of the services of my deceased husband; and I hereby empower my said attorney to examine all records and documents in reference to said claim on file in the Department in Washington, to file additional evidence and arguments, and to do all lawful acts and things whatsoever touching the premises, with full powers of substitution. Hereby revoking and countermanding all former powers of attorney that may have been given by me for the above specified purpose.    Witness my hand and seal this 18th day of July 1854. [sig] Sarah Watkins X her mark. ( there is a small, round doodle with the word 'seal' in the center next to Mrs. Watkins mark.)                                                     State of Virginia County of Taylor } ss: On this 18th day of July 1854 personally appeared before me, Sarah Watkins and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be her act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned. and I further certify that Sarah Watkins who signed the foregoing declaration is a varry helpless old lady and that she is not able to appear in court it being some five miles from her place of residence to the County seat of said County and I further certify that I am not interested in the result of this claim.  (sig) Harmon Sinsel. Presiding justice of the county court of Taylor County
Page 29

Auditor's Office, Annapolis, June 13th.-1820.     I hereby certify, that it appears from the muster-rolls remaining in the Auditor's Office, that Stephen Watkins enlisted as a private in the 1st Maryland Regiment, on the 15th day of July 1777 and was discharged on the 20th. May 1780~  (sig) Thos. Karney  A.G.S. Md.
Page 30

Pruntytown Taylor Co Va    Please send me a statement of the amount of money which has been drawn by agents (next word crossed out and illegible) and all persons on account of Stephen Watkins a Pensioner in the Revolutionary War since said Watkins death which was about 20 years ago,     Yours. & C (sig) A. Armstrong
Page 31

Breif in the case of Sarah Watkins, widow of Stephen   Taylor County and State of Virginia act 3, Feby: 1853.  Claim, ("original," or "for increase") (previous last 3 words are crossed out)  Proof exhibited, (if original.) Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance. Husband was a pensioner under the Act of 18" March. 1818 & 1st May 1820. Record evidence of marriage.   (if for increase.) Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim?  If so, what?     (sig) C.C.Tucker. Esqr, Present. Name and residence of Agent     (sig)"Boynton." Examining Clerk.
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Washington City, 21. July 1854  Hon. L. P. Waldo, Commissioner of Pensions.   Sir, I have the honor to enclose herewith the claim of Mrs. Sarah Watkins, of Virginia Act of 3. Feb. 1853, widow of Stephen Watkins, a Pensioner under Act of 1818 in Monongalia Co. Va.    The proof of Marriage and identity I expect to file in a few days. Very Respectfully, Your Obt. Servt.  (sig) Chas.C. Tucker.- Atty.    P. S. It is possible some papers relating to this case may have been sent recently to your Office, by some other person.
Page 33

Clarksburg Va- 25th July 1854   [illegible]   I Send Enclosed herewith the declaration (next word crossed out and illegible) (for Pension) of Mrs. Sarah Watkins (her name is underlined) Widow of Stephen Watkins decd, who was a Revolutionary Pensioner of U.S under Act of Congress of 18th March 1818, She Claims a pension in right of her Said husband, under Act of 3rd Febr 1853. Respectfully (sig) F. A. Werninger      (sig) L.P. Waldo Esq Comm Pensions Washington City D. C
Page 34

(this document simply has 2 words handwritten in the center of the page:) Com Pensions
Page 35

(document is handwritten)
Virginia Taylor County
Pruntytown  Jany 7. 1856
 Dear Sir. Sarah Watkins widow of Stephen Watkins decd. empowered Granville E Jarvis of Barbour County  Va. obtain and draw the back pay due her for her husbands service in the Revolutionary war. Her son desires to know how much money Mr. Jarvis drew for her.
 You will please inform me, Mr. Jarvis drew the money in the last 2 or 3 years. Yours. [illegible] C
(sig) A. Armstrong
Page 36

(page is handwritten)
Additional Evidence. (phrase is underlined)
Sarah Watkins, Wid. Stephen- (phrase is underlined)
Va.-Act 1853. (phrase is underlined)

(sig) Chas. C. Tucker, Atty. (name and title underlined)   31. July 53. - Present. (last word underlined)
Page 37

(all that follows is handwritten)
[illegible] Town Taylor County Va. July 29/54 
Dear Sir I now send the remainder of the [illegible] in the case of Sarah Watkins for which Is the best I can get at this time  I think the {illegible} which I got from the records of the County court of Monongalia are sufficient in regard to the time of Stephen Watkins death its very difficult to prove by any other evidence at this time the precise date of his death he being a man of not very much note his family are all ignorant & keep no record of anything  I see the old case was mistaken as the time of his death one year + also one month in the time of their marriage but I suppose the record evidence I [illegible] be conclusive evidence in the case as I think all the rest will correspond from what I can learn  I think the old lady made some effort to be put on the pension list some two years ago but could not succeed on account of being married 1804. ( ink smudge) Mr. Weringer is still getting some evidence in the case but you will see the power of attorney to [illegible] revokes all others & is of a later date than his  
Respectfully [illegible] (sig) G E Jarvis 
 NB always assist [illegible] letters to Phillippa 
B. Co. Va}
Page 38

(this document is handwritten)
This Evidence was filed after the case was written.  August, 1st 1854. (sig) " Boynton".
Page 39

(entire page is handwritten, right hand margin is torn)
Washington City, 31st. July 1854.
Hon. L. P. Waldo, Commissioner of Pensions.
Sir: In the case of Sarah Watkins (proper name is underlined), of Virginia, for Revolutionary Pension under the Act of 30 Feby. 1853, as the Widow of Stephen Watkins a Pensioner under the Act of 1818 at $98 per year; please find enclosed , a Certificate of the Clerk of Monongalia Co. Va. that Stephen Watkins (name underlined) and Sarah Miller (name underlined) were married on the 26th. June 1804, by Robert Manley a Minister of the Gospel. Also a Certificate of the same Clerk Shewing that Stephen Watkins (proper name underlined) died on 12 .February 1838 (date underlined) and that Sarah (name underlined) was his Widow (last word underlined). Also the Affidavits of David Kinkaid and Isaac Mc.Daniel, proving the identity and continued Widowhood of the Claimant.
I also send you herewith, a letter from G. E. Jarvis Esq. to me, showing that by the ignorance of the family and the absence of all records for their guidance, the Widow made a mistake in her Declaration of precisely a month in the date of her marriage, and precisely a year in the date of her Husband's death, such an error as may be innocently committed by any person. 
It will be most convenient for the Widow to collect her Pension at Wheeling Va. (last 2 words underlined), as she resides near the Baltimore & Ohio Rail Road. 
Very Respectfully, Your Obt. St. Chas. C. Tucker (the following is written by hand down the left hand margin of this document:) (it starts with what appears to be a hand sketched picture of a finger pointing to the following verbage:) Declaration sent to Pension Office, 17. July 1854.
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(entire page is handwritten)
Morgan Town 7th August 1820-
While absent on a visit to Fredricksburg, the enclosed declaration was sent here. which I received on my return yesterday - In July 1818. I went to Washington city. previous to which Mr. Wilson, who represented this district in Congress.  had written a number- of old soldiers declarations. requested me to take on the copies and leave them with the Secretary of war-at that time I took on as well as I now recollect the copies of the declarations of Jeptha Wilkins, Jesse Gaskins, Ezekial Burrows, Joseph Bonner. Christian Madera, Zadoc Morris, Youst Heck, Daniel Lee, Gabrial Williams &  Stephen Watkins-
Respectfully [illegible] J P Ray   Secretary of War
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Auditor's Office, Annapolis, July12th.-1820. I hereby certify, that it appears from the muster-rolls remaining in the Auditor's Office, that Stephen Watkins - enlisted as a private- in the 4th - Maryland Regiment, on the 15th- day of July 1777- and was discharged on the 20th. May 1780.
Thos. Karney- A. G. S. Md.
Page 42

(entire page is handwritten)
Stephen Watkins.
June 22, 1818.  Monongalia Co Va. } 65 years
Battles: Long Island, White Plains Monmouth.
Where Anne Arundel, Md. 
When May 1776   July 15.1777
Term May20 1780.
As Private
Capt. Jonathan Sellman
Col Smith. and Hall
State Va
died {Feb 12, 1838 Booth's Creek Monongalia Co. Va.
Married Sarah Miller Where. BLANK  When June 26, 1804 age 76 in 1854 Taylor Co Va.
In 1820 Children: James, 16 years; Frances, 15, Arthur, 13. Thomas 10; Stephen 8, Gasway 6, Hannah 3.
Page 43

printed: Information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau. 
handwritten: Stephen Watkins  W.F. 25852
( the following is a chart of service:)
 printed: DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. handwritten: May 1776
printed: LENGTH OF SERVICE. handwritten: May 1780  printed: RANK. handwritten: Pvt.
printed: OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. CAPTAIN. handwritten: Jonathan Sellman  printed: COLONEL. handwritten: { Smith (and) Hall printed: STATE. handwritten: 4" Md 
(end of chart)
printed: Battles engaged in, handwritten: Long Island    White Plains  Monmouth
printed: Residence of soldier at enlistment, handwritten: enlisted in Anne Arundel Co. Md. printed: Date of application for pension, handwritten: June 22. 1818. [illegible]
 printed: Residence at date of application, handwritten: Monongalia Co. Va.
printed: Age at date of application, 
handwritten: about 65 yrs. He died on Booths Creek Monongalia. Va. Feb. 12. 1839.
printed: Remarks:  handwritten: Soldier was in Monongalia Co. Va. June26, 1804 Sarah Miller [illegible] on an application executed July 11. 1854 while a resident of Taylor Co. Va. aged 76 years. Children in 1820 James 16yrs. Frances 15yrs. Arthur13yrs. Thomas 10yrs. Stephen 8yrs. Gasmay 6yrs. and Hannah 3 yrs.
printed: Very respectfully, Commissioner.
1565b3m10-08
Page 44

Pension Off:
July, 28" 1854.
Sir. Please certify the time to which the within named pensioner was paid. on the date of his death. 
Very Respectfully, 
L. P. Waldo Commissioner 
Dd 12 Feb 38 [illegible] 
Francis Burt, Esq.
Third Auditor Treasury
(written perpendicularly to the above:) (sig) "Boynton" (last word is underlined)
Page 45

Stephen Watkins, Act 1818, $8 for month. 
Died 12 Feby. 1838. paid. 
Saml. S. Rind, actg 3rd. Auditor
Page 46

( this document is shaped like an opened envelope) (printed in the right upper corner is as follows:) DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, PENSION OFFICE. OFFICIAL BUSINESS 
COMMISSIONER.
(written perpendicularly to the above is as follows:) Sarah Watkins Wid: of Stephen
Taylor Co. Va (last abbreviation is underlined)
ACT/53   $96.00 Per An:
Com: Feby: 3. 1853. 
 [illegible]
C.C. Tucker, Present.
Page 47

(this appears to be a small slip of paper)
Revolutionary. Act 1853
Additional Evidence. 
Hon. L. P. Waldo.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Present. (last word underlined)
(written perpendicular to the above:) Sarah Watkins wid Stephen (sig) Boynton
Page 48

(this appears to be a small slip of paper) County [illegible] Free Sept 30 Commissioner of Pensions  Washington City D.C. (written perpendicular to the above is as follows:) (?initials) CA  (and all to follow is underlined:) Sarah Watkins Stephen Va D 1853-
Page 49

(this appears to be a small scrap of paper) [first 3 words are illegible] July 8~Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C. (written perpendicular to the above:) Sarah Watkins wid Stephen (and further down the page, still perpendicular:) Cole
Page 50

(this appears to be a small scrap of paper) (there is a check mark at the top of the page) 31.735 { [illegible]
Page 51

(this appears to be a small scrap of paper)  No; 4886 Sarah Watkins. Wid: of Stephen. Let; to C.C. Tucker. July 22, 1854, Act/53.
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(this document appears in book form, with a right and left side of the page) (the lefthand side is as follows:) [illegible] WIDOW, & c. File No. 25852 Sarah Watkins wid of Stephen Watkins Pri Rev War Act Feb 3d" [illegible] Index: Vol W, Page 313  [Arrangement of 1870.] (the righthand side of the page reads as follows:) 1906 Jan 2- history to Mrs. A Agnes W. Sivey M.B.H. 1912 [illegible] to Hist. to Mrs.W. M. Sivey. V.L.M. 1934, Mar. 12, Hist to J.C. Watkins MIB
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Re: Ev:  12" Febry. 39.   (sig) "Boynton"  [next 2 words illegible]  (this appears to be a torn sliver of paper)
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J. C. Watkins GENERAL MERCHANDISE KANAWHA FALLS, W. VA.  Feb 28- 1934 U. S. [illegible] of Pensions Washington D C  Dear Sir: Will you Kindly give me a brief epitome or data of the war record of one Stephen Watkins (last word underlined) -  a revolutionary soldier - and my Great grand father - Native of Maryland presumably of Anarundal Co - supposedly born about 1750 - granted a pension June 22 - 1818 - Was in several of the Notable battles of revolution - Have heard served under Genl Morgan and was in Battle of the [illegible] & C  This particular Stephen Watkins after the (Rev) War moved first into then Monongalia Co Va New Hamsen & Marion Counties W. Va  Very Respectfully  (sig) J C Watkins  (at the top right corner of the page there is a round stamp with the consecutive numbers 1 through 12 around the edges. there is printing inside the circle that reads in part: RECEIVED MAR 1 1934. the next 3 lines are illegible.)
Page 55

Please send Mrs. W. M. Sivey Morgantown W. Va. wants records of Stephen Watkins. Md. W. 25852. act APR 18 1912
Page 56

West Virginia University  MORGANTOWN, W. VA. THE MILITARY DEPARTMENT  Dec 16, 1905 Pension Dept., Washington, D.C.  Gentleman: I wish to become a member of the D.A.R. and wish you to verify the statement that Stephen Watkins was pensioned under ( the word "the" is written and subsequently crossed out here) Act of Congress, March 18, 1818, page 487, History of Monongalia Co., W. Va. Also please state whether he was a private (last word underlined) or an officer in Revolutionary War, and to what regiment he belonged, etc. Thanking you in advance the favor, I am, Yours respectfully,(sig)  Mrs. Agness W. Sivey.  P.S. Please answer at once. A.W.S.  (the top lefthand side of the page has the handwritten note: O.M. & M.) ( the top righthand corner has a square stamp that reads: OLD WAR NAVY DEC 20 1905 FILES  each of the four corners of the stamp have one of these letters in them : W. S. P. B.) ( the bottom lefthand side of the page has a round stamp that reads inside it: PENSION OFFICE U.S. A DEC 19 1905)