Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W 8745, for Christopher Souder, Pennsylvania
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service: Penn.
Penn sea Service 
Privateer

Souder or Sowder, Christopher
Elizabeth

Number: W8745
B.L.Wt 26.668-150-55

Contents: See Christopher Souder 
War of 1812-B.L. Register 78264-50
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19646      Act Mar 3/55
March 29/55
Elizabeth Souder Rev. Pensioner
Widow of Christopher Souder private
Capt. Osborn
Col --
Penna Mil
(illegible)
Revolutionary War
Leg 53- 4904
(illegible) 160 ac May 15/56
Boynton

Jackson & Ford
72 South 3rd St
Philadelphia 

(illegible) Jackson & Ford, July 26/55

Vol 82, page 14.
Page 3


Dead
Let to Jos. Butler, Nov 13 1837
let:  9th May 1838 to Hon, C. Naylor. let: 29th May 1838 W. W. Russell
Let to S. D. S. Bower Ap'l 30 1842.

26,210
Pennsylvania 
Christopher Souder of Philadelphia in the State of Pa. who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain (illegible) of the Reg't commanded by Col. _______  in the (illegible) line for __________

6 Mo. (illegible) $20.00
Inscribed on the Roll of Pennsylvania at the rate of 20 Dollars _______ Cents Per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pensioned issued the 12th day of April and sent to (illegible) Joseph Butler Philadelphia arrears to the 4th of (illegible).                                                                                         
                                                                  $10.00
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4th Sept.  $10.00
                                                                  $10.00

{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.}
Recorded by J. T. Sprague Clerk, 
Book 6  Vol. 5  Page 54
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4.904
Pennsylvania Phila
Elizabeth Sowder
widow of Christopher Sowder
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 20 dollars 00 cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.
Certificate of Pension issued 1st day of February 1853 and sent to 
J.C. Brewster
No. 48 South 6th St. Phila, Pa.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners und
February 3, 1853, Page 111

Ser. Hon. John Robbins 22/53
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E. Sonder's app.
Copy of entries from Pension 
books in U.S. Mint
Page 6

To the Honorable the Commisioner of Pensions.
The Application of Elizabeth Souder, relief of
the late Christopher Souder, showing the
facts and circumstances which entitle her to 
the benefits of the provisions made by the Act of Congress passed June 7, 1832 for the relief of surviving Officers and Soldiers of the Revolution.
The Applicant respectfully submits that she is Relief of the late Christopher Souder, late of Philadelphia, in the County of Philadelphia and the State of Pennsylvania. That her late husband served as Private in the Revolutionary Army, under Captains Osborne and Pister, such service commencing in the year 1780. That he was about nineteen years of age at the time of entering the service and then resided at the corner of Shackamaxon Street and Frankford Road, Philadelphia, that he died on the fifteenth day of April 1837, aged seventy seven years, in [ ] street, Kensington, Philadelphia.
The Applicant respectfully herewith submits the Certificate of her Marriage with the late Christopher Souder, showing the justification of the title by which she claims. And also submits the Affidavits of two respectable citizens, residents near her late husband, showing the opinion of the neighborhood respecting his services, together, with
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other proofs showing the justness of this claim.

And the said Applicant prays to have awarded to her the benefit of the provisions of the aforesaid act of Congress passed June 7 1832, July 7 1838, Feb 3 1853 and other acts due to the services of her late husband and to her the party nearest in interest.
And for the purpose of obtaining the Benefits of any Acts of Congress entitling her to any allowances from the Government & especially for the purpose of obtaining the benefits of the Act of Feb. 3, 1853.  She makes the following Declaration

Pennsylvania 
City of Philadelphia 
On this Twenty first day of December A. D. 1854 personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace of the said city of Philadelphia Elizabeth Souder a resident of the city of Philadelphia & states aforesaid aged 79 years who first being 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 paper February 3, 1853 granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War; that she is the widow of the late Christopher Souder who was a private in the Revolutionary army & who served as above in her petition set forth at length
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She further declares that she was married to the said Christopher Souder on the eleventh day of May A. D. Eighteen Hundred - that her said husband died on the fifteenth day of April A. D. 1837 - that she was not married to him prior to the second of January Eighteen Hundred but at the time above stated.  She further declares that she is now a widow - that her said husband was a pensioner under the Act of June 7, 1832 & was paid at the.     U. S. Mint Philadelphia.
Philad'a:  Acts: 4, 1854.
Elizabeth Souder {X is her mark}

Sworn to & subscribed before me at Philadelphia this Twenty first day of December A. D. 1854 and I certify that the said applicant is unable from bodily infirmity to attend Court. 
note July 7 1838  Feb. 3 1853 & other Acts were underlined before signing
John Clouds
one of the Aldermen of the City of Philadelphia and ex officio Justice of the Peace

Witnesses present at signing
Jos. M. Riterson
John Fullerton
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We - Joseph M Ritterson {sic} whose occupation is House Carpenter and whose residence is Marlboro above Franklin Street in the city of Philadelphia and John Fullerton whose occupation is a Baker and whose residence is in the said Street and in the said city of Philadelphia on oath say that we have attested the signature of Elizabeth Souder to her foregoing application & declaration - that we well know her & now depose to her personal identity - that said application & declaration are made by the Elizabeth Souder who is therein referred to as the widow of Christopher Souder dec'd.  
Jos. M. Riterson
John Fullerton
Sworn to & subscribed before me this Twenty first day of December A. D. 1854 & I certify that the persons making this affidavit are known to me & are credible
John Clouds
one of the Aldermen of the City of Philadelphia and ex officio Justice of the Peace
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James Keen being duly affirmed according to Law doth-depose and say -
That he knew Christopher Souder before
and after his marriage, more than thirty
years as a good citizen of Kensington.
And has often heard his Father say
that he knew him when a soldier in
the Revolutionary Army.
And he further says that he has long
known Elizabeth Souder widow of the late Christopher Londer and fully believes the facts stated in Application to be true.
Affirmed to and subscribed}  James Keer
before me the 4th day of October}
A D 1854}
John Clouds
one of the Alderman of
the City of Philadelphia

with
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Adam Richard Being duly sworn according to Law-doth depose and say - that he knew Christopher Souder for many years as a worthy Citizen and a respectable man and has frequently heard him say, and does believe, that he was a Soldier in the Revolutionary
Army.
And he further says that he has long known Elizabeth Souder, widow of the late Christopher Souder and fully believes the facts stated in her application to be true.
Sworn to and subscribed}  Adam Richard
before me the 4th day of October}
A D 1854}
John Clouds}
one of the Alderman}
of the City of Philadelphia

with
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Mr Sanders
Affidavit
Affidavit of
Adam Richard
Prothy certificate
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State of Pennsylvania,
COUNTY OF PLADELPHIA, ss.
I, JAMES G. GIBSON, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of said County, DO CERTIFY,
that John Clouds Esquire
before whom the annexed affidavits was made was made, was then this Alderman and ex
officio Justice of the Peace of the City of Philadelphia, duly commissioned and qualified to administer oaths and affirmations, and to take acknowledgments, &c. and to all whose acts, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, as well in Courts of Judicature as elsewhere, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court, this 17th day of November A.D. 1854
James Gibson
Prothonotary.
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City and County of Philadelphia  ss.
I, James G. Gibson Esquire, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas for the City and County of Philadelphia, Do Certify, that the Honorable Oswald Thompson Esq. by whom the foregoing Attestation was made, and whose name is thereto subscribed, was at the time of making thereof, and still is, President Judge of the Court of Common Pleas for the City and County of Philadelphia, duly commissioned and sworn, to all whose acts, as such, full faith and credit is and ought to be given, as well in Courts of Justice as elsewhere.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court, the 17th day of November eighteen hundred and fifty-four
Jas G Gibson Prothonotary
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Office for Paying Pensions
Philadelphia Sept 21st 1834

I certify that the name of Christopher
Sowder is on the pension roll of this Agency
under the act of Congress of 7th June 1832,
at the rate of Twenty dollars per annum
and that by the same roll it appears that the
last payment of pension to him, was
up to the 4th March 1837.

Danl Sturgeon
Pension Agent
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19.646
---
APPLICATION
Elizabeth Souder wid.
Chistopher Souder Priv
Capt Osburn
Pa. Mil. or Line
War of "The Revolution"
BOUNTY LAND
Act March 3, 1855.
JACKSON & FORD.
ATTORNEYS.
No. 72 South Third Street.
PHILADELPHIA.
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State of Pennsylvania 
City of Philadelphia 
On this Twenty Seventh day of March A. D. on thousand eight hundred and fifty five personally appeared before me an Alderman and ex-officio, a Justice of the Peace, in and for the City and State aforesaid, Elizabeth Souder aged 79 years, a resident of Frankford Road City of Philadelphia in the State of Pennsylvania who being duly sworn, according to law, declares, that she is the widow of Christopher Souder deceased, who was a private (she thinks) in the Company commanded by Cap't Osburn Penna. (illegible) or Militia commanded by __________ in the War with Great Britain (Revolution) declared by the United States one the 4th day of July A. D. 1776 that her said husband was drafted (she thinks) at Philadelphia on or about the ____ day of _____ A. D.____ for the term of _____ and continued in actual service in said War for the term of ______ and was honorably discharged at Philadelphia (she thinks) on or about the ______ day of ______ A. D., ______

She further states, that she was married to the said Christopher Souder in Philadelphia on the 11th day of May A. D., 1800 by one Rev. (illegible) Minister of the Gospel and that her name before her said marriage was Elizabeth Harvey that her said husband died at Philadelphia on the 15th day of April A. D. 1837 and that she is now a widow, that her name is now on the Pension Roll at Washington at the rate of Twenty dollars per year, as per Certificate of 1 July 1855. That her marriage Certificate she thinks was sent to obtain her pension, and that she is unable to obtain any Public of private Record of her said marriage or the death of her said husband, that she relies on the testimony of her witnesses for proof of reputation and (illegible) and refers to the testimony now on file in the Pension department, sent to obtain her pension.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the Bounty Land to which she may be entitled under the "Act approved March 3, 1855.  She also declares that she has never received a Bounty Land Warrant, under any Act of Congress.
Attest  John Henry
E. C. Jackson
Elizabeth Souder {X is her mark}
We Elizabeth Bower a resident of No. 570 Frankford Road, City of Philadelphia and Elizabeth Wilkins a resident of No 131 (illegible) City aforesaid upon our Oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Elizabeth Souder in our presence, and that we believe from the appearance and statements of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be, and that we have no interest in this claim.  That they well know the said applicant and have known her for many years and Elizabeth Wilkins, declares that she well knew the said applicant and well knew her said husband during the said marriage that they lived together as husband and wife and as such were respected and esteemed by their neighbors and friends and been so reputed, and that she remembers the death and funeral of said Christopher Souder from a circumstance connected with the death of her own child and she declares said applicant is now a widow.
Elizabeth Bower
Elizabeth Wilkins
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The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written: and I Cettify that I know the affiants to be credible persons: that the Claimant is the person she represents herself to be, anf that I have no interest in this Claim. [Illegible] belief being founded upon [illegible] statement and affidavits after strict efamination before me.
John Henry Ald. & c.
The Commissioner of Pensions will please send my Bounty Land Warrnat to Messrs. JACKSON & FORD, Philadelphia.
Witness,
John Henry    Elizabeth [illegible]

Stae of Pennsylvania,
City of Philadelphia, } ss.
I, Jas W Fletcher Prothonotary of the District Court in and for the City and State aforesaid, Certify that John Henry [illegible] before whom the foregoing declaration and affidavit were made, was at the time of doing so an Alderman and ex-officio a Justice of the Peace in and for the City and State aforesaid, that his official acts are entitled to confidence, and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court, this 28th day of March AD 1853.
 Jas W Fletcher Prothonotary
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No 16.564
Christopher Souder
18th March 1833
Obj 4.57,8,9,10
14. 1617
Return
P 2 99
Rejected
Did not serve 6 months
exclusive of service in
private ships.
a letter 25 May
1843
Joseph Butler
Phila
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Brief in the case of Christopher Sowder of the City of Philadelphia in the State of Penna.
(Act 7th June, 1832.)
1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? Court
2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disbaled by bodily infirmity?
3. How old is he? 70
4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed.
Period. Duration of Service. Rank. names of Generals and Field Officers under whom he served.
Years, Months, Days. As a    Gen.
In 17   - 2 -  drafted    Capt. Seib
77   -      -     -   [illegible]   Capt. [illegible]
then  -    -  [illegible] [illegible] Flora, Capt. [illegible]
then  - out 4 or5 in [illegible] Royal Lewis, Capt. Decatur
then - about 5  - [illegible] Rising Sun, Same Capt.
5. In what battles was he engaged?  at sea
6. Where di he reside when he entered the service? Phila. it appears
7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? Deposition in part by a parcel of [illegible] certificates
8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect ?  
No certificate of Clergy [illegible]
 I Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
Sevin Belt
Examining Clerk.


then - about 5 - [illegilble]
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Application
Petition
Affidavits & C.A
of
Elizabeth Souder
for pension
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This is to Certify, that on the Eleventh day 
of May in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred
(1800)
Christoph Sauder 
and  single persons of Philadelphia,
Elisabeth Harvey
( the Revd Mr Schmidt)
wre by united in the bonds of MARRIAGE, according to the Ordinance of God
and the laws of the State of Pennsylvania.  That the above is a true
Copy from the Records of the german Evangel. Luther. Congregation of G. Michael Lion in Philadelphia, I certify with my name & the corporate seal of said Congregation, Phila.
Dated this First day of March A.D. 1854.
Chs R. Demmi
Pastor of said Congregation
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City of Philadelphia -
State of Pennsylvania [illegible]

 On this twentyninth day of October 1832
Personally appeared in Open Court; Before the Court of Common Pleas now sitting.
Christophen Sowder- a resident of the City of Philadelphia State of Pennsylvania
aged 70 years; 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 seventh 1832.
 That he netered the service as a [illegible] in the Company of Capt Leib Lieut. Casper Sowfer, Anthony Leichner, General Dicherson march'd from this ;illegible] by land to Trenton, through Princeton, Kingston, New Brunswick, to Elizabeth [illegible]; Thore Encampiede and  two months [illegible] to the city and was discharged. He then entered as a drafted soldier in the company of Capt. Coover. Lieut Sowder and Anthony Leighmen. Was marched to Bristol from thence to Trenton. Was then ordered with a detachment to Burlington , to guard the Baggage Waggons. Was at Burlington when Gen Washington attacked the British at Princeton, then marched with Baggae Waggons to [illegible] Headquarters.  This was in the year 1777 a cold winter campaign at the end of which was discharged. return to the City. He then entered as a landsman on board the ship Flora of sixteen [illegible] a [illegible] of mark. Captain Doan, first mate Donaldson. 2nd Bruster. Capt of Marines, Waglum on a cruise; and touched at Saint [illegible], was about five monthsout took no prises, returned into port. I then entered on Boarde a ship called the Royal Louis. 18 guns. Captain Stephen Decatur. Was out four or five weeks when we took a Sloop bound to New York, four guns. Capt. John Osburn was put Prime Master. I myself, with Osburn;s son and three others, on our way to Philad .the next day was taken by the British frigate  74 guns and sent into New York . This ship was call'd the Royal Oak. we were then placed on Board the Jersey prison ship. remained in confinement six months was then exchanged and was landed at Elizabethtown point. returned to Phila. I then entered on board the ship Rising Sun Capt Stepehen Decatur caried sixteen guns. Chief mate M. Donaldson. Took a Copper bottom'd Brig deeply laden eight guns. had six or eight fine horses on deck. {illegilble] from England to Jamaca. Capt. Baker was put [illegible] master, arrived safe in the port of Philadelphia. Was about five months on this cruise.Have never been ensbribed on any pension list or receiv'd anything from the State or United States. Now rests his claim on the Bounty of his Country.
 Sworn and subscribed this 29 day
 of October 1832. Christopher Souder
 [illegible] Raybold [illegible]
City of Phila
State of Pennsylvania   Personally appeared in open court at the same time Marks Young,
a Resident of the City aforesaid who being first duly Sworn according to Law doth on
his oath declare and say that he is well acquainted with the above applicant -
Christopher Sowder, and that he was a fifer and beloved to the same company and
on the tour of duty as above described through Jersey to Elizabethtown Point, and served out
 the time with him and was discharged. I also knew him in his second Tour of duty, was engaged in the same company under the same officiers; as a Musician. this was in the hard winter campain. March'd to Morifstown the then
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We Jacob Coates Esq of the City of Phi and William Binder - unknown; Marks Young. Residing in the County of Philadelphia. Hereby certify that we are well acquainted with the within named Christopher Sowder who has sworn and subscribed to the within Declaration that we believe him to be 70 years of age past. That he is reputed and believed in the Neighborhood where he resides to have been a Soldier of Revolution, and that we fully concur in that opinion.
Sworn and suscribed the day and year aforesaid in open court.
F.A. Raybold, PP
Jacob Coates,
W. Binder
Marks Young being sick could not come forward.

And the said court, Do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter and after puting 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 Certify's that it appears to them that Jabob Coates Esq and W. William Binder and Marks Young --- that have signed the preceeding Certificate are residents of the city and County of Philadelphia and are credible persons and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Edward King
W.B. Sutherland
I Richard Palmer Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas Do hereby certify that he foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Couort on the matter of the application of Christopher Sowder ofr a pension.
In testomony whereof, I have herein to set my name and seal of office ther 26th day of April 1833.
RW Palmer
notary
Page 25

Christopher Sowder
10504
Page 26

City of Philadelphia
State of Pennsylvania

Personally appears in open Court before the Court of Common Pleas. - now sitting within named Christopher Sowder. Who being duly sworn according to law doth on his oath declare that his first tour of duty was in 1776. Tow months. second tour as within declard was in the winter of 1776 and 1777 and was full tow months. I then, as within stated in ny declaration. Entered on board and did duty as therein described. cannot say wither vessels were United States or belonged to the state of Pennsylvania but considered myself in the service of my country during the time in which the service was performed, I was not engaged in any civil persuit.
I hereby relinguish all calims to any pension; other than the one under the act of June 7th 1832.
Sworn and subscribed
the day and year aforesaid 
in open court F. A. Raybold, PP

Questions of the Court
1st Where and in what year were you Born?  
{Answer. Born in the 1762 in Philadelphia
2nd Have you any record of your age an if so, where is it? {Recorded in a Bible.
3rd Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary War; and where do you now live {lived in Kensington in the same neighborhood, live now on Frankford ave near Kensington
4th How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer or were you a substitute? and if a substitute for whom?-----{a volunteer 1st tour   Drafted 2nd tour
5th State the names of some Gen officers who were with the troops { see Declaration
6th Did you ever receive a Discharge, by whom was it given { discharged twice, cannot say by whom.
7th state the names of Persons to whom you are known in your neighborhodds who can testify to your character as to veracity and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution------{answer. Fred Wolbert Esq Jacob Coates Esq city, Wm Binder N. Liberties
Marks Young city
Note--- From all the information that can be gathered respecting the Vessels on board of which the applicant served, no proof can positively be had as to their being United states vessels. but three out of four beleives the Ships Flora and Royal Lewis were state vessels. ____ name do _____ as to sware to the fact. but were in the service of the State of Pennsylvania --------- J Butler
Page 27

Head Quarters. afterwards was discharged, and returned home.
Sworn and subscribed this 29 day of Oct. 1832
F. A. Raybold
Your Porothy
Mew County
Page 28

J. L. Edwards Esqr   Free
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington DC

Apr. 23
Pa.
Retrd

[Round Postal Stamp]
PHIL
23 APR
Page 29

To J. L. Edwards Esq Philadelphia April 20th 1833 Commissioner of Pensions
 Lis. The Three enclosed you will receive in fav,___ of which every proof has been attached that can be obtained in and around this city. It seems unfortunate for C. Souders.  if he should be included for with every person I have had opportunity of speaking who know him say he was a very active man and did duty as he states. I would ask why should he be included from obtaining a pension, after servinf so many months and being a prisoner so long. When those who wounded on board of private privateers are enrolled and draw from 6 to 8 Dollars per month for life. granted under the first Law. hope Souders case may be considered and his application granted for most assured he is poor an needs the assistance of Government and not an honester man lives. he would not say other, than what he has in his declaration he stated at the time that nothing should induce him to state more than the declaration states.
Respectfully yours obliged and ______ Lerot. Joseph Butler
Page 30

Pension Office
January 29, 1855

Sir

Please certify the time to which the within named person was paid or the date of his death.

Very respectfully

LP Waldo

[ ] Randall
R J Atkinson, Esq
Page 31

Christopher Souder paid to 4 March 1831.
Rob Jammison
Auditor
Page 32

No. 16564.
Christopher Souder
Former application, on file.
Page 33

City and County of Philadelphia
State of Pennsylvania

On the 1st day of March 1834. Personally appeared in open Court, before the Court of Common pleas: Christopher Souder, who being first duly Sworn according to Law, Doth on his oath declare that (In addition to my former declaration, now on file in the pension office) I served as a volunteer, one Tour of duty of two months, in a company commanded by Capt Forebau - who with other Troops crossed into New Jersey, was stationed and did duty at Red-Bank and on fatiegue duty repairing the Fort.  served out the tour and was verbally discharged. This was before I entered on board of the different vessels in which we curved against the Enemy as also stated in my declaration aforesaid and owing to a belief that my services on board Armed Ships would entitle me to the benefit of the acts of Congress ________ on the seventh of June 1832. As well my having been made a prisoner and confined so many months; caused an omission of stating the above Tour in addition with those already stated.  Owing to sickness and the infirmities from hardships and old age, my memory has become so much impaired, that I cannot with any degree of certainty name the dates, other than, as heretofore stated. must Rest my claims on the foregoing, being added and attached to my former statement and declaration on file.       Christopher Souder
Sworn and subscribed
The day and year aforesaid
In open court
F. A. Raybold
PP We the subscribers, being well acquainted with the above named Christopher Souder who has sworn to the above declaration for more than twenty years, Do know him to be an Honest, Upright, Sober man and a person of Truth do now and have always believed him to have been engaged as a Soldier in the Revolutionary War, and served as he has stated and that full credit may be given to his declaration.
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid
F.A. Raybold
PP
Page 34

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion that the within named application, was a Revolutionary Soldier and served as he states. And the court furhter Certifies hat the subscribing witnesses to the forgoing certificate are known to be credible persons nad that their statement is entitled to credit.
Archibald Randall
Hugh Ferguson

I Richard Palmer Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of said Court, in the matter of the application of Christopher Souder for a pension.
In testoimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office the 17 day of March 1834 Richard Palmer, clerk
Page 35

portion of seal in left corner

We the Subscribers, Do hereby certify That we are and have been well acquainted with Christopher Sowder, for, from Ten to Thirty years. That we have always known him to be an honest, upright, sober man, in whom we could place the most implicit confidence. And that we believe and some of us remember his having served in the Revolutionary war. as a Militiaman and tailor, as set forth in his declaration for a pension. That he was a prisoner for a number of months in New York while in possession of the British Army- And that full faith and credit may be given to his statement. 
City & County of Philada.
February- 1834
Fredk Wolbert
George Woppel
Michael Weaver
George Bird
John Gabel
Danl Miller
Daniel Miller
S. Salter
Page 36

[illegible first line]
Tuesday: Jany.2.1852

To the Hon.
Commisioner of Pensions
Sir:
I beg leave to enclose
to you the application of Miss Elizabeth
Souder a resident of this city & widow
of Christopher Souder dead; who was
 a revolutionary prisoner for a pension
under Act of Feb 3, 1853 or any other 
Laws entitling her to the bounty of
the Government.
Accompanying the application are
1. The certificate of Danl Sturgeon, Esq.
Pension Agent of the [illegible][illegible]
Page 37

showing that the husband of the applicant was on the pension roll.

2.  Her marriage certificate under the seal of the church

3.  Affidavits as to her identity as required by the regulations of your office.

Her case like most of the cases that are meritorious is one that would command sympathy.  It has been my effort said her on that score and I trust that the regularity of her papers will equally commence her to the consideration of your department.

I am very respectfully your obedient servant

F Carroll Brewster
Page 38

Brief in the case of Elizabeth Souder, widow of Christopher
Philadelphia County and State of Pennsylvania 
act 3rd July:  1853.

Claim, ("original")
Proof exhibited, (if original)
 Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls?  If either, state the substance.
Husband was pensioned under the Act of 7th June, 1832. at the rate of $20 per ann. Marriage proven by a copy of the church record thereof.  Pensioner died April 15th 1837.  (illegible) the 
affidavit of six credible witnesses report of the (illegible) auditor.
(illegible) is established by the affidavits of the six credible affiants.

(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim?  If so, what?

F. C. Brewster
No 48 South 6th St.
Philadelphia
Name and residence of Agent

S. C. Boynton
Examining Clerk.

x Souder
Page 39

Pennsylvania
WIDOW, &c.

File 8745
Elizabeth Sowder
Wid
Christopher Sowder
Privt Rev War

Act: Febry 3rd 1853
Index: Vol. M, Page 23/

[Arrangement of 1870]
Page 40

no
Elizabeth Souder,
wid of
Christopher
Pa
Let. W.C. Enos Nov 11/50
Reported
July 29, 1848
Page 41

Copy of [illegible]
6 to Death April 15, 1837
6 Act

Boynton
Page 42

Christopher Souder Pa; Act of June 1832
to what time paid ?
Pen officer 
May 28: 38

The 4th March 1837 
   JH
Page 43

Kennsington Phila
Sept 15, 1855
Commission of Pensions

Sir:
One of my late constituants Mrs Elizabeth Souders - widow of Christopher Souder a revolutionary soldier received since last February or March a pension from your department. She died about two weeks ago leaving a number of grown up children who are all very poor. There is due to her nearly $20 from the department or government.
Will you cause a line to be dropped to me stating the ________ method whereby the children can obtain the balance of the pension (unknown)  Yours very respectfully
John Robbins
Page 44

To Hon: L.P Waldo Esq
Commisioner of Pensions
Page 45

check mark symbol
26,668
 [illegible]
[illegible]
Page 46

No. 3342

Elizabeth Souder
wid of Christopher

Letter to John K. Robbins
Oct 21 1853

Let to F.C. Brewster, Janry 6"/55



Oct - Feb 3.53.
Page 47

Kennsington Phila
Oct 14 1853
Hon: L.P. Waldo
Commisioner of pensions

Sir: I herewith enclose the papers of Mrs. Elizabeth Souder, widow of Christoper Souder, a revolutionary Soldier. She applied for a pension to L.L. Edwards Com. of pensions and was unsuccessful. She now applies under the Act passed by last Congress.
I knew her husband and there is no doubt but that he was in the Revolutionary Was, and that she is entitled to it. She is poor and I hope that she can obtain it.
I am Sir
Yours very respectfully
John Robbins Jr
Page 48

John Souder -------- who resides Franklin St between Marlbora & Hanover  - Phil:
& who is a butcher by occupation

George F. Tyson  who resides Hanover St between West & Duke Sts Philadelphia & is by occupation a brick maker

George W. Devenny who resides in the city of Philadelphia in Oxford Street between Frankford Road and Front Street

Jane Lusher who resides in Franklin Avenue above Cherry Street Widow

John Hill who resides in Marlborough Street near Franklin Avenue occupation [unreadable]

having bee duly and severally sworn according to law do severally declare and say 
That they knew Christopher Souder in his life time
That he died in Crowder Street Philadelphia in 1837 - the precise month or day they cannot recollect
that he was while living a revolutionary pensioner - and that they also well know Mrs Elizabeth Souder who they understand is now an applicant for a pension - that she is the widow of the ssaid Christopher Souder who
Page 49

was while living a revolutionary pensioner and who died in Crowder Street Philadelphia in the 1837 as above stated. She is now present and deponents have no doubt of and confidently testify to her identity as "the wodow of the identical Christopher Souder who was revolutionary pensioner of Philadelphia" as above [unreadable].

Sworn to and subscribed (before me) this Eleventh day of January 1855 before me one of the Aldermen of the city of Philadelphia. I certify that Mrs. Elizabeth Souder (widow of Christoher Souder above mentioned) was present when this affidavit was made and was identified by each deponent if that said deponents are known once and are credible Witnesses.
John Clouds
one of the Aldermen in and for the City of Philadelphia and Ex Officer of the Justice of the peace

signed 
George W Devenny
Geo F. Tyson
John (his X mark) Souder
John Hill
Jane (her X mark) Lusher
Page 50

State of Pennsylvania 
County of Philadelphia, ss.
I James G. Gibson, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of said County, Do Certify, that John Clouds Esq. before whom the annexed affidavit was made, is & was Alderman and ex officio Justice of the Peace of the City of Philadelphia, duly commissioned and qualified to administer oaths and affirmations, and to take acknowledgments, &c. and to all whose acts, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, as well in Courts of Judicature as elsewhere, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court, this twenty third day of January A. D. 1855
James Gibson Prothonotary.
Page 51

Richard Chapman M. D. (whose residence is on the west side of front Street between Poplar & Ellen Streets in the city of Philadelphia and who is by profession a doctor of medicine) having been duly sworn ______ according to Law doth depose and say-
That he resides as above stated and that he is now & has for many years past been a physician.  Deponent attended Christopher Souder (a revolutionary pensioner who resided at the time of his death in Crown Street - Philadelphia) during his last sickness.  The said Christopher Souder died in the month of April 1837 - deponent has no doubt of this fact having attended the said deceased up to the time of his death.
Deponent from his attendance on deceased was well acquainted with his then wife and now widow Mrs. Elizabeth Souder - who has applied for a pension as deponent is informed.  She is now present while deponent is qualified to this affidavit and deponent has no doubt of her identity.  He therefore deposes
Page 52

to the same & that she is the identical Mrs. Elizabeth Souder who was the wife & is now the widow of Christoper Souder deceased.
Richard Chapman M D

Sworn to and subscribed (before me) this Twelfth day of January A. D. 1855 before me one of the Aldermen of the city of Philadelphia and I certify that the said deponent Richard Chapman M. D. is a well known & highly respectable physician of this city & a perfectly credible witness & further that while this affidavit was made Mrs. Elizabeth Souder (widow of Christopher Souder dec'd) was present & identified by the witness.
John Clouds one of the Aldermen of the City of Philadelphia and ex officio a Justice of the peace

I certify that I am acquainted with the persons sworn in the above and within affidavits and that they are credible as witnesses And that I was acquainted with the said Christopher Souder and with the present applicant Elizabeth Souder and that they lived together as Man and Wife and were always reputed to be such and raised a large family of Children
John Clouds
Alderman
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State of Pennsylvania,
County of Philadelphia, ss.
I James G. Gibson, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of said County, Do Certify, that John Clouds before whom the annexed affidavits were made is an Alderman and ex officio Justice of the Peace of the City of Philadelphia, duly commissioned and qualified to administer oaths and affirmatives, and to take acknowledgments, &c. and to all whose acts, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, as well in Courts of Judicature as elsewhere, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court, this twenty fifth day of January A. D. 1855
Jas G Gibson Prothonotary
Page 54

Pennsylvania,
PHILADELPHIA COUNTY,  ss.

I, OSWALD THOMPSON, Esquire , President of the first Judicial District of Pennsylvania, and Presiding Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, Orphans' Court, and Court of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace for the County of Philadelphia, Do Certify, that the foregoing Certificate And Attestation, made by James B. Sodow "Esquire, Prothonotary of said Court of Common Pleas, whose name is thereto subscribed, and Seal of Office affixed, are in due form and made by the proper office.

IN TESTIMONY whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, the twenty third day of January eighteen hundred and five-five (1855)
Oswald Thompson

PHILADELPHIA CITY AND COUNTY, ss

I, James G.Gibson Esquire, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas for the City and County of Philadelphia, DO CERTIFY, that the Honorable Oswald Thompson, Esq by whom the foregoing Attestation was made, and who has thereunto subscribed his name, was at the time of making thereof, and still is, President of the first Judicial District of Pennsylvania, and Presiding Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, Orphans' Court and Court of General Quarter Sessions of the Peace for the City and County of Philadelphia, duly commissioned and sworn, to all whose acts, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, as well in Courts of Judicature as elsewhere.

(Stamp in  Corner with ribbons attached illegible)

IN TESTIMONY whereof, I have hereupon to set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court, the Twenty third day of January eighteen hundred and five-five (1855)
Jas G Gibson  PROTHONOTARY.
Page 55

Addl" 
indexes for  Christopher Sowder of Penn Pa
19 March 1834

L. Edwards Esqr 
Commissioner of Pensions.
Pension Office
Washington D.C.
(initials) Jb
Page 56

Philadelphia March 7th 1834
To J L Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Sir. I herein transmit you a further or additional declaration of Christopher Sowder, which you will if in order, please to have added to his former declaration on file. I well remember, the commission of this part, as it was by him mentioned at the time of his first application (but owing to his having served so much on board Vessels of War-and not knowing that they privateers, and did come under the class, agreeably to Law and the regulations of the department) I omitted putting down the within tour of duty. The certificate attached is signed by a number of respectable men, who, several of them knew him in the war, and remember his being out, and having conversed  with on the subject, between the different Tours, as set forth in his Declaration. All which is respectfully submitted, for your inspection.
With Respect remain

Your Hon. Servt
Joseph Butler

Permit me in addition to call your attention to the
application of Ezekiel H. Teal, who's papers are on file.-I sent [illegible]some time since a further statement, of his case, in which I referred the department, to the facts, as set forth in his favor as to his age, and reference to Niles register, and Barney Biography which shows the date of the capture of the [illegible] by the [illebible]
This is also respectfully submitted for further consideration.
Respectfully . J. Butler
JL Edwards, Esqr.
Page 57

N. P. Waldo Esq.
Page 58

No. 48 South 6th St Phila. Jan 25/55
N. P. Waldo Esq.
Commission of Pensions
Dear Sir
Your favor of the 6th inst. was duly received by me on the 9th inst. - in it you was kind enough to say that "on Mrs. Elizabeth Souder proving by some credible witness her husbands death and date thereof - and that "she is the widow of the identical  Christopher Souder who was a Revolutionary pensioner of Philadelphia her claim will be favorably considered". I now beg leave to enclose to you the affidavit of Dr. Chapman, a well known and respectable Physician of Philadelphia who attended Christopher Souder the Revolutionary pensioner of Phila. up to the time of his death.
Page 59

He testifies distinctly as to his decease and the date.  He was also acquainted with Mrs. Souder the widow and present applicant and testified positively as to her identity.  Accompanying his affidavit are the affidavits of John Souder and others as to the same facts.  They depose to the very matters desired in your favor of the 6th.  Permit me to request that you will give this application the earliest attention consistent with your other engagements.  The applicant is known to me as very poor and destitute
Very repy. yrs.
F. Carroll Brewster.
Page 60

J. L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of pensions
Pension Office
Washington D. C.

Nov 13
Chr. Souder 
(illegible)
Page 61

L.L. Edwards                Philadelpia Nov 9th 1837 
 Commissioner of pensions       

Sir on the 12th day of April 1834, There be as granted to Christopher Souder a private during the Revolutionary War of the State of Pennsylvania a pension Certificate entitling him to Twenty dollars [unreadable] during his natural life. said [     ] died about the seventh of June 1837 left a widow who recieved the balance of his half years pension. She is an aged woman in very poor circunstances and an application to a number of persons in encouraged to believe she is entitled to a continuance of said pension after being called on by her home promised to write and satisfy her. [ ] ----- be pleased to answer this that I may know of what description of Widows of Soldiers are entitled if any. Which favour sahll be greatly acknowledged.
by your [unreadable] Joseph Butler
P.S. she has a number ot Children but all to poor to help her.
Page 62

Philadelphia June 1, 1850
JS Edwards Esq
Comm of Pensions
[illegible]
Please receive the enclosed papers and be so good as to inform me if anything further is necessary
Very respectfully
Your ob svt
WC Enos

be of Ann McIlvany for [illegible] of [illegible] June 27, 1830 be for Penna NY war
Page 63

Philad.a Jany 1. 1842.
S. D. S. Bower
Asks for certified copy of the pension papers of late Christopher Souder.

B.40. Red Jany 24 /42
Pension Office. 

Copies from Jan 25.42
Ch. Souder
Park No 26,210

2 [illegible]
Page 64

Philad.a Jan 21st 1842

The Hon. John S. Spencer

Sir
Mrs Elizabeth Souder, widow of the late Christopher, being about to make application to the State of Pennsylvania for relief in consideration for the Services of her Husband in
the Revolutionary War, and at present having no
proof within her reach; has requested me to ask
of your Department a Certified Copy of the Documents filed therein.  His pension certificate was granted to him on the 2nd day of April 1834 (No 26.210) under the Signature of the Hon. Lewis Cass, then Secretary of War. 

Your compliance most convenient to the Department will confer a great favor on the widow, and much oblige me. 

I have the honor to be Sir
Very respectfully
Your obdt. Srt.
S.D.S. Bower
Page 65

Kensington Sept 16th 1850

This certifies whom it may concern that I have known Mrs Elizabeth Sauder the widow of Christopher Souder some twenty five years more
or less, that I attended the funeral of her husband Christopher Souder on the 16th of April 1837, and that Mrs Souder his ever since lived in
this neighborhood and is of irrefutable character

Signed
George Chandler
Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church
Kensington Phila

John Mansfield
Philip Miller
Joseph M. Ritersen 
Thomas Vaughan
John Fisher
Peter Fisher
Page 66

1h.5h4

Christopher Sowder
Penna

Adm 6 months
$20

Joseph Butler
Phila'a
Page 67

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office.

Sir:

The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned.  The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed,
before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. Those points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: }). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by compling with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.

Statement, shewing the Service of
[A table with columns labeled as follows (all fields are blank)]

Period when the service was rendered.

Duration of Service. [Subdivided into]
   Years, Months, Days.

Rank of the claimant.

Names and rank of the Field Officers under   whom he served. 

Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service

Proof by which the declaration is supported

I am, respectfully, 
Your obedient servant, 
James L. Edwards, 
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 68

[The caption from the page of a book or pamphlet; breaks in text below added for clarity of transcription.]

2
REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.

The following regulations have been adopted: 

This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia" and “volunteers, all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c., Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service. Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law: 
   1. The Regular Troops. 
   2. The State Troops, Militia and Volunteers. 
   3. Persons employed in the Naval Service. 
   4. Indian Spies.

As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, mucicians or privates, will, in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.

DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.

State, Territory, or District of } ss.
County of                              }

On this [space] day of [space] personally appeared (a) before [space] A B. a resident (b) of [space] in the county of [space] and State, Territory or District of [space] aged (c) [space] years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832.  That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) [space], with [space] and served in the [space] (e) regiment of the [space] line under the following named officers: 

[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marched. [A stylized hand pointing to the following] This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.]

He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of [space]

Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.   A. B. 

[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.

I [space] of the Court of [space] do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of [space] for a pension.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this [space] day of [space] &c.
If, on examination of the proper record, the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.

Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:

(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman, residing in the [space] and C. D. residing in (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with [space], who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be [space] years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion. 

Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.

[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.] 

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 A. B. who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the [space] and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the [space] and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.

I, [space] Clerk of the Court of [space] do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of [space] for a pension.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this [space] day of [space] & c.

Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the transaction.

If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person of his
Page 69

Page 3
alleged service, as they are known at the Department.  a very full account of the services of each person will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case.  The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected.  All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the de3clarations above provided, according to the nature3 of his case.

The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
1. Where and in what year were you born?
2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?
4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute?  And if a substitute, for whom?
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your service.
6. To a Soldier. Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it?
To an Officer. did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your4 present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution.

The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.

The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons--one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion.  If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.

The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party.  And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the inquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.

Applicants unable to appear in court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will exe3cute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.

Whenever any official act is req2uired to the done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.

No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested w3ill transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood r3especting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.

[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides.  If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariable be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had.  Every claimant must state, 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 amount of pension he is entitled.  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."
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 to indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable.  Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that 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 objectionable.  It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each team 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.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g][ The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] the Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no devise or inscription by which is can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of the member of congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
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 papers 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.
Proof of Service.
[j] 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 claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged.  The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
"The notes from [a] to [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops.  The proof required by rule in not [j] applies to continental troops only.
[k] This traditionary evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[l] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.
Page 70

Pension Office
November 11, 1850
Sir,
The application of Elizabeth Souder widow of Christopher Souder deceased for a pension for the Revolutionary services of said Christopher, has been examined and rejected, for the reason that there is no law in existence which embraces her case.  A widow, married prior to January 1, 1800, might assert a claim, but Mrs. Souder was not married until May 11, 1800, as appears by the copy of the church record filed with her papers.
I am respectfully your obt. servt.
J.L. Edwards 
Commissioner of Pensions
by
B. Stooe ch. clk.

W.C. Enos, Esq.
Philadelphia Penna
Page 71

No 819
Elizabeth Souder 
[illegible] of Christopher
Pa
July 29, 1848
W.C. Enos 
Philadelphia Pa
Page 72

State of Pennsylvania
CITY AND COUNTY OF PHILADELPHIA, ss
I, JAMES VINYARD, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas for the City and County of Philadelphia, DO CERTIFY, That John Clouds Esq., before whom the foregoing affidavit and power of atty. was made, and who has thereunto set his name, in his own proper hand, was at the time of so doing, and now is, one of the Aldermen in and for the County of Philadelphia, and ex officio a Justice of the Peace, duly commissioned and qualified, to all whose acts as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, as well in Courts of Judicature as elsewhere.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court, at Philadelphia, this first day of June one thousand eight hundred and fifty 
James Vinyard Prothonotary
Page 73

Know all men by these presents that I Elizabeth Souder do hereby constitute and appoint William C Enos of the City of Philadelphia my true and lawful attorney for me and in my  name to make application and ask for a pension from the Government of the United Stated as the window of Christopher Souder deceased who was a solder in the army of the United Stated during the Revolution and who was a pensioner of the United States Government -hereby fully ratifying and confirming all my said attorney shall be in this [illegible] as within my hand and deed.
Elizabeth X (her mark) Souder
I John Clouds an Alderman in and for the County of Philadelphia and ex officio a Justice of the Peace do hereby certify that Elizabeth Souder who had subscribed the foregoing Power of Attorney personally appeared before me and acknowledges the Power of Attorney thereto subscribed to be her free act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned 
Witness my hand and seal this 27th day of April AD 1850
John Clouds Alderman
Page 74

State of Pennsylvania 
County of Philadelphia SS
Personally appeared before me the undersigned Jane Lusher of lawful age who being duly sworn deposes and says that she was well acquainted with Christopher Souder in his life time that he departed this life some time in the month of April 1837 as near as this deponent now recollects that he was a pensioner of the Government of the United States and was present at the time the said Christopher Souder drew his pension for services as a Revolutionary Soldier at the Girard Bank in the City of Philadelphia in March 1837- that she was at that time in company with Christopher  Drew who was also a pensioner of the United States Government for Revolutionary services and drew his pension at the same time and place - this deponent further says that Elizabeth Souder was the lawful wife of the said Christopher Souder deceased that she has been acquainted with them for the time of twenty years and further this deponent saith not.
Jane X (her mark) Lusher
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 11th day of April AD 1850
John Clouds Alderman
Page 75

Philadelphia County SS
Before me the subscriber one of the Alderman in and for said County personally came Jacob Taylor of Kensington who after being sworn according to Law doth depose and say that he was acquainted with Christopher Souder late of Kensington in the County aforesaid and that he has been acquainted with Elizabeth Souder the widow of Christopher Souder and that he knows she was his lawful wife and that he was present at the wedding when the said Christopher Souder and the said Elizabeth were married and that he often heard said Christopher say he had been to serve on board of a States vessel that the said Christopher and Elizabeth were married by the Rev. McSmith of Philadelphia
Jacob Taylor
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 11th day of April AD 1850
John Clouds  Alderman
Page 76

State of Pennsylvania
City of Philadelphia SS
Before me this subscriber an Alderman in and for said County and ex officer a Justice of the Peace personally came Elizabeth Souder who after being duly sworn according to law does depose and says that she is the identical Elizabeth Souder who is the widow of Christopher Souder deceased and is the same individual (Elizabeth Souder) whose name is mentioned in the foregoing affidavits of Jacob Taylor and James [illegible]
Elizabeth X (her mark) Souder 
Sword and subscribed to before me this 27th day of April A.D. 1838
John Clouds Alderman
Page 77

On the eleventh day, of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred Christopher Sauder & Elisabeth Harvey, both single persons of Philadelphia, were lawfully, joined in holy matrimony. Witnesses were Casper Sauder and John Taylor. 
That the above is a true copy from the Records of the German Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of R [?] Michael & Zion in Philadelphia, with the exception of the date, which is written in fair legible characters as follows: ' 11th May, 1800.----  I certify, with my hand and the corperate [corporate] seal of said Congregation, Philadelphia this fifth day of July in the year of  our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty nine. 

Chs. R. Demme`
Pastor of said Congreg.

[illegible partial stamp bottom corner]