Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 590, for William Smith, North Carolina
Page 1

(3-1776)
SERVICE
N. C..

SMITH, WILLIAM
Meredy

NUMBER
W.590.
B.L.Wt. 13865-160-55.

b. in Nansemond Co. Va. in 1751
res. during Rev. in Cumberland + Moore Cos., N.C.
d. May 8, 1852.
Page 2

Act March 3 
114.43} May 3  339
Maiady Smith Widow of William Smith pen
Revolutionary War 2 years Claimant is a Pensioner refers to Evidence on file Act Feby 3 1853
Private N.C. Line
Revolutionary Service
[illegible] July 53 - 1960

Cld. 160 acs Jany 10/56 Dodge

J. H. MoCutcheon
Present

no 13865 JC Jany 12/54

Rice
Page 3

Hon. L. J. Gartrell
Dec. 15/58
(Rev. Book)


Vol. S1. page 150.
Page 4

Increase Georgia 1960
Meredy Smith widow of William Smith who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private 
Inscribed on the Washington City Roll at the rate of 96 dollars - cents per annum, to commence on the [3d February, 1853. - struck through] Dad payment made since 27, July 1868

Certificate of Pension issued 9th day of Nov. 1868 and sent to R. W. Walker, Esq 472 7th st
Washington D.C.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under February 3, 1853, + July 27, 1868, Page241 Vol. H
J N Smith
Sent
Page 5

1887 Aug't "Sen" Agt. reports paid to June 4, 1887 & living in Neuman, Caweta Co Geo - ( In 1853 stated her age - 48 yrs) which makes her age in 1887 = 82 yrs)
Rec'd from House Com Feb. 6 - 91
Page 6

Georgia 16.940
William Smith - Jasper - in the State of Ga: who was a pri. in the  - commanded Captain - of the Reg't commanded Col Alston in the No Car [cut off] for 2 years
Inscribed on the Roll of Georgia the rate of 80 Dollars - Cents per annum, commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 16. day of [illegible] Neuman. Ga and sent Ja.s Wood
Arrears to the 4th of Sept - 1833 - 200 Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Mar 34 40 = $240 - 

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

Recorded by Nath. Rice - Clerk, Book  E Vol. g Page 103.
Page 7

Georgia } On this the 3rd day of September one
Coweta County } thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Two, personally appeared in open court, before us John B. Huston, Samuel D Echols and Henry Henderson Judges of the Inferior court of Coweta Co. Georgia - now sitting William Smith a resident of said State + County, aged 81 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 the 7th June 1832
That I entered the service of the United States , under the following named officers, and served as herein stated, agreeably to the affidavit of John Chapman hereunto annexed. After remaining a short time at home I entered the service in the latter part of August 1780 for 6 months as a volunteer, my Captain's name was King, a part of time, when he resigned, Capt. Love was appointed in his place for the balance of the tour, this detachment was commanded by Gen. Arrington after serving out this tour, I again entered the service for 3 months as a substitute for John Maulding a private in Captain Ackins company of Horse. the squadron of Horse was commanded by Col Hadley, [crossed out] and Maj. Folson, in the campaign I was wounded in the hip at the battle of the long Crossway North Carolina, after I had recovered from my wounds I again entered the service for another tour of 3 months a substitute for Moses Oliver a private in Captain Folsom company of Dragoons, this regiment of Horse, was commanded by Col P. Alston
Page 8

in this tour I was wounded in the face at a battle at Col. Phillip Alston's House, with Col. Fannin's men. On serving out my tour, I again entered the service as a substitute in the place of Abner Chapman (the witness who proved my two first tours of duty) under the same officers that I served the last 3 months tour above mentioned I do not at this time recollect the day and months exactly that I entered the service in any different tours as I have lost or misplaced all my papers, but it was from 1778 to 178? I lived in Cumberland and Moore counties, South Carolina between those two dates. I was march from cross creek now Fayetteville, N.C. to Cheesaw HIlls, S.C. and over Peedee, to the high hills of Santee, and back again to Cross creek now Fayetteville. I do not recollect serving with any continental, regiments or companies. I have no documentary evidence, and I know of no person (except Abner Chapman whose affidavit, is hereunto annexed) whose testimony I can procure, who can testify to my service.  I hereby relinquish every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except, the present, and declare that my name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any State.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid William Smith X his mark
Jno. D. Hinton J.J. C.C.C.
Sam D. Echols J. J. C.C.C.
Henry Henderson J.J. C.C.C.
Page 9

Answers to Interrogatories put by the War Department

Answer to Int. 1 - I was born in Wausemond County Virginia in the year 1751 agreeably to what my parents told me
Answer to Int. 2nd I have none - 
Answer to Int. 3rd In Moore and Cumberland counties North Carolina. I have lived in Randolph county N.C. until about 11 years back I moved in Georgia to Newton and now living in Coweta Co. Georgia 
Answer to Int. 4th I volunteered and was a substitution as have been before stated in my declaration 
Answer to Int. 5th There was no regular officers where I was in service except (when I was in the 2nd Regiment of North Carolina militia) and that officer was a Brigade Continental inspector Maj. McIntosh the general circumstances of my service was such as I have, as nearly as I can recollect stated. we were marched up and down the country after the British and tories - 
Answer to Int. 6th I did receive discharges every time I served but I have lost them  -
Page 10

Answer to the Interrogatory 7th I refer to Col George Penticost and Maj. Nicholas Dyer - 
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year before mentioned  William Smith his mark [looks like a backward S]
Jno. D Hinton J.J.C.C.
Sam D Echols J.J.C.C.
Henry Henderson J.J.C.C.

We George Penticost and Nicholas Dyer residing in Coweta county Georgia, hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with William Smith, who has subscribed and Sworn to the above declaration, that we believe him to be 81 years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, t have been a soldier of the revolution, and that we concur in that opinion - Sworn to + Subscribed, the day and year aforesaid. George Penticost  Nicholas Dyer
Jno. D. Hinton J.J.C.C.C.
Henry Henderson J.J.C.C.C.
Page 11

And the said court, do hereby declare their opinion, after 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 a he states. And the court further certifies, that it appears to them that George Penticost + Nicholas dyer who has signed the preceding certificate, (no clergyman, being convenient, that were acquainted with the applicant) resides in this county, (Coweta Georgia) and that they are both credible persons, and that their statement is entitled to credit, this the day + year aforesaid.
Hugh L. Echols J.J.C.C.C.
Jno. D Hinton J.J.C.C.C.
Henry Henderson J.J.C.C.C.
I Richard W. Est Clerk of the Superior court of the County of Coweta + State of Georgia, do hereby certify, that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of William Smith for a pension and that John D. Hinton Samuel D. Echols and Henry Henderson - are Judges of the Superior court of the county of Coweta + State of Georgia, and that all due faith and credit should be given to their attestations as such.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my ha[covered] office, this the 3rd day of September 1832
Richard, W, East [covered]
Page 12

Georgia }
Coweta County }
Personally appeared before me Samuel D. Echols a Justice of the Inferior court of Coweta county, Ga., William Smith, 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 two year and nine months, I served as a soldier and for such service I claim a pension - 
William Smith his mark [looks like a backward S]
Sworn to and subscribed this 24th September 1833

Samuel D. Echols J.J.C.

Georgia }
Coweta County }
I Richard W. East clerk of the Inferior court of the county of Coweta + State of Georgia do hereby certify that the above named Samuel D. Echols is one of the Justices of the Inferior court of said state + county, and that his signature above is genuine, and that all due faith and credit ought to be given to his attestation as such - 
Given under my hand + seal of office this 24th September 1833

Richard W. East C.I.C.
Page 13

[picture of hand pointing right] Procure two respectable persons who can swear to the following:
AFFIDAVIT OF WITNESSES.
STATE OF Georgia}
COUNTY OF Coweta}
On this 27th day of April A.D., one thousand eight hundred and 55 personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace within and for the State and county aforesaid, the two persons whose names are hereunto subscribed, residents of the County of Coweta County and State of Georgia who being duly sworn according to law, declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged in our presence by Masaely Smith, who is the widow of William Smith deceased, who was a soldier in the war with Revolutionary War. The said widow was married to the said [illegible and crossed out] William Smith deceased, in Coweta County in the State of Georgia on the 26th day of March A.D. 1835 by one Moses W. Stamps J.P. [a minister of the Gospel - struck through] that the name of the said widow before her said marriage aforesaid was Marady Gamage; that her husband , the said William Smith died in Coweta County Georgia on the  _________ day of __________ A.D. 1851 and that she is still a widow. That they of their own personal knowledge know that the soldier died at or about the time stated; that they were well acquainted with the parties during the lifetime of the husband, and knew them to live together as husband and wife, and to be so reputed __ and they swear that they are disinterested witnesses. [114,431 written in right margin]
Signature of witness. { Wm R. Bower
Co is error pinkney Simmons
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim, and that she  Marady Smith is personally known to me as above stated and she has this day subscribed to me her pention Certificate as above stated #1960
M. D. Robison J.P. [seal - with a stylized box around it] (After the Justice of the Peace has signed the above, it must be sent to the County Clerk, who will fill up and sign the following under the seal of the Court.)
STATE OF Georgia }
COUNTY OF Coweta } ss.
I James E. Hardman Clerk of the County Court, in and for the County and State above mentioned, do hereby certify, that Maroah D. Roberson whose genuine signature appears above, is and was at the time  of signing the same Justice of the  peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn; that all his official acts a such are entitled to full faith and credit; and that the aforesaid County Court is a Court of Record having general jurisdiction. I also certify that I am no interested in this claim, or concerned in the result thereof.
GIVEN under my hand Seal of Office, at Newman Georgia this twenty seventh day of April A.D. 1855.
James E. Hardman clerk
Page 14

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS ATTENTIVELY.

The paper must be filled up and signed and sworn to by the widow, before a Magistrate or Justice of the Peace. State in what war the husband served: whether in the war of 1812 with Great Britain, or in either of the Indian wars, describing the same. If the widow has her husband's certificate of discharge, it must be sent to me. In that case strike out the words "she has not his discharge certificate." If there be a public record of the marriage, a duly certified copy of it should be forwarded, if possible.  If thee be no public, but a private or family record, such family record, or a certified copy of the same, should be forwarded, with the affidavit of some disinterested persons proving the genuineness of the original and correctness of the copy. In that case strike out the words "there is no public or private record of the marriage." If there be no record, let the words remain. The name of the Captain is indispensable. If the widow has received land, proof of her marriage will not be required, but proof of her identity ,and that she is now a widow, will be required, as in the soldier's claim.

WIDOWS' BOUNTY LAND CLAIM.

State of Georgia }
County of Coweta } ss.
On this the 27th day of April A. D., one thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before me {Meredy - struck out] M D Robison a Justice of the Peace within and for the county and State aforesaid, Marady Smith aged 50 years, a resident of the county of Coweta in the State of Georgia, who being duly sworn according to law, declares, that she is the widow of William Smith deceased, who was a private in the company commanded by Captain ___________ in the ______________ Regiment of ____________ commanded by Col. _______________ in the Revolutionary war and she now claims a pention under act 3rd July 1853 of $80 per year that he served two years in said war ascetaile of service and of marriage +c. The closest state as all will fully appear by refference to papers on file
That her said husband entered the service at ___________ on or about the _________ day of _____________ A.D., _______________ for the term of _____________ and continued in actual service in said war, for the term of two years and was honorably discharged at _____________ State of  __________________ on the  _______________day of __________________ A.D.,  ___________________ as will appear by the muster rolls of said company ________ and that she has not his discharge certificate. She further states that she was married to said William Smith in the county of Coweta State of Georgia on the 26th day of March A.D.. 1835 and that her name before her marriage was Maradey Gamage and that there is {no - struck through] private or public record of her marriage; that her said husband died [at-struck out] in Coweta County State of Georgia on the ___________________ day of ___________A. D., 1851 and that she is still a widow. She has never applied for, or received land under any act of Congress. She has not married since the death of her said husband. She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the additional bounty land to which she may be entitled under the act approved the 3d day of March, 1855. She also declares that she has never applied for nor received, under this or any other act of Congress, any bounty -land warrant (except as follows:) * by applying to the pention office will then, that she is now drawing pention and the number of her certificate is 1960 at the rate of Eighty dollars per year
Signature of claimant Marady Smith X her mark
* State here if such is the fact "that she has obtained a land warrant for the above service for  ___________acres, No. __________under the Act 28th September, 1850, which she has sold, "located, or herewith surrendered.
Page 15

Certif of marriage
mar 6. 1835
Page 16

Georgia Coweta, County
To any Judge, Justice of the Inferior Court, Justice of the Peace or Minister of the Gospel You are hereby authorized to join William Smith and Merata Gamage, in the holy state of Matrimony, according to the constitution and laws of the State; and for so doing this shall be your sufficient license, Given under my hand and Seal this Twenty Sixth day of March, one thousand Eight hundred and thirty five
David Mosely C. C. C.

Georgia Coweta County
I certify that William Smith and Meraba Gamage were duly joined in Matrimony by me this the twenty Sixth day of March One thousand Eight hundred and thirty five
Moses W. Stamps JP

Recorded 17th August 1835
O Mosely, C.C.C.

Georgia Coweta County
I Batty A. Mitchell ordinary in and for the County aforesaid do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true copy of the Record in my office with the Exception of the date which is expressed in the Record in four legible figures follows, the 26th day of March 1835
Given under my hand and seal office this Twelfth day of April Eighteen hundred and thirty three
Batty H Mitchell Ordinary
[I Batty is partially covered by the seal] H Mitchell above named depose and say that I have the office of Ordinary in the County of Coweta and State aforesaid, and that the above is true Entire from the Records of said office with the Exception above named as certified by me Batty H Mitchell ordinary of Coweta County, Ga
Sworn before me William B. Brown J. P.
Page 17

Georgia }
Coweta County }
I Hillsberry R Harrison clerk of the superior Court and for said county and State do hereby certify that William B. Before when Batty H Mitchell the ordinary of said county was sworn, is a Justice of the Peace in and for said County and was such at the date of the same, duly authorized by law to administer oaths, and that the same appearing thereto is his genuine signature, and I further certify that I am not interested either directly or indirectly in the result of this application for Pension. 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office this April the 13th 1853
Hillsberry R. Harrison C.S.C.C.C.
Georgia
Page 18

State of George
Coweta County ⎬

On this 14th day of March Eighteen
hundred and fifty three personally
appeared in open Court which
a Court of Record before the Honorable
Edw Young Hill Judge of said Court,
Mercy Smith a resident of said County
and State aforesaid aged 48, years who
being duly sworn according to Law doth on
her oath make the following declaration
in order to obtain the benefit of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed
3rd February 1853, That she is the Widow
of William Smith, who was a Revolutionary
Solder and a pensioner during life and
drew a pension of Eighty Dollars per anum
Sim annually at the Agency at Savanah
Georgia, as a resident of the County of
Coweta, under the act of 7th June 1832
commencing on the 4th of March 1831, his
pension papers dated 16th day of October
in the year 1833,
Signed, Lewis Cass Secretary of War
Signed George W Crump acting Commission 
She further declares that she married to
the said William Smith on the twenty sixth
day of March in the year Eighteen hundred and thirty five and that her husband the said William Smith, died on the Eighth day of May Eighteen hundred and fifty two, (1852), that
she was married to him at the time above stated + that her name before marriage was  [illegible] Gamage She further swears
that she was a widow at the passage
of the act and still is a widow, and
that she has never before made application
Page 19

for a Pension Except for balance due said William Smith, my deceased husband from the 4th of March 1852, to the 8th of May 1852, the time of his death in regard to which application she has not been apprised
Merely Smith X her mark
Sworn to and subscribed }
before me the day and }
year above written }
Edw. Young Hill J.S.C.C.C.

State of Georgia
Coweta County ⎬ I hereby certify that Edw. Young Hill Esq'r before whom the foregoing declaration was made and who has
thereunto subscribed his name was at the time
of so doing a Judge of the Superior Court of
the Coweta Court in the State of Georgia, which Circuit Embraces within in the County of Coweta) duly Commissioned and sworn,
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my hand and affixed the seal of my
office as Clerk of the Superior Court
of said County, this the twelvth day of April
in the year of our Lord 1853
Hillsberry, R. Harrison Clerk
Superior Court Coweta County
Georgia -
Page 20

State of Georgia }
Coweta County }
On this seventeenth day of July A.D. One thousand Eight hundred and Sixty
Six, personally appeared before me Henry
K. Allen. a Justice of the Inferior Court
of said State and County. The same being
a Court of record. Meredy Smith who
being duly sworn according to Law
declares that she is the Identical Meredy
Smith widow of William Smith, who
was a Pensioner on the Roll of the Agency
at Savannah, and whose Pension certificate
is herewith returned, that she has resided since the first day of January 1861, as follows. That she has resided in the County of Carroll in said State that during this period her means of
subsistance have been jobbing about, getting
spinning and weaving and other small Jobs, and that she has not borne arms against the Government of the United States or in any manner encouraged the Rebels or manifested a sympathy for their Cause, and that she was last paid her pension on or about the 15th day of September 1860. This application is made for the purpose of securing a restoration of her
name to the Pension Rolls, and obtaining
a new Pension Certificate such as she
may be entitled to, under existing Laws
Referent being made to the evidence heretofore filed in the pension office to substantiate her original claim.
Page 21

Sworn to and }
Subscribed before me }
Meredy Smith X her mark
I also certify that the contents of the within affidavit was made known to her before signing this 17th of July 1866
Henry K Allen JSC

Also personally appeared
William Paris and Pearce Cosly.
Residents of the County of Carroll
in said State. Persons whom I certify to
be respectable and entitled to Credit
and who being by me duly sworn say
that they were present and saw Meredy
Smith make her mark to the foregoing
declaration, and they further swear that
they have every reason to believe from the
appearance of the applicant and their
acquaintance with her that she is the
Identical person she represents herself to be
and they further swear that they have
no interest in the prosecution of this claim
and they further swear that said applicant
has never borne arms against the Government
of the United States or in any manner encouraged the Rebels or manifested a sympathy with their cause, and that said applicant is still a widow
William Davis
Pearce Cossly X his mark
Sworn to and subscribed }
before me this the 17th July A D. 1866, And I hereby certify that I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim & that the affidavit was made known to witness before making his mark
Henry K Allen JSC
Page 22

I Meredy Smith. do solemnly swear
in the presence of Almighty God that
I will henceforth faithfully support
protect and defend the Constitution
of the United States. and the Union of
the States thereunder. that I will in like
manner abide by and faithfully support
all Laws and proclamations which have
been made during the existing Rebellion
in reference to the emancipation of Slaves
so help me God.  Meredy Smith X her mark
Sworn to and subscribed, 
before me the same being made
known to her before making her mark
This the 17th day July 1866
Henry K Allen JSC
Page 23

[CALENDAR NO., 2598.
51ST CONGRESS, }  H.R. 13061.
2D SESSION. }
[Report No. 2226.]

_____________________
AN ACT
Increasing the pension of Meridy Smith, a Revolutionary pensioner.
__________________________
1891 - FEBRUARY 9. -Read twice and referred to the Committee on Pensions.
FEBRUARY 12. - Reported without amendment.

S. R. DOWNEY,
ATTORNEY
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Page 24

[Calendar No., 2598.
51st CONGRESS,
2D SESSION. H. R. 13061.
[Report No. 2226.]
___________________________
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
FEBRUARY 9, 1891.
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Pensions.
FEBRUARY 12, 1891.
Reported by Mr. FAULKNER without amendment.

_________________________________
AN ACT
Increasing the pension of Meridy Smith, a Revolutionary pensioner.
1  Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives 
2 of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
3  That the Secretary of the Interior be, and he is hereby, 
4  authorized and directed to increase the pension of Meridy
5  Smith, widow of William Smith, a soldier in the Revolutionary
6  war, from twelve dollars per month to thirty dollars per 
7  month, and pay the same to her, from the taking effect of this
8  act, during her natural life.

Passed the House of Representatives February 6, 1891.
Attest:;  EDWD. McPHERSON,
Clerk.
Page 25

The Commissioner of Pensions
Washington, D.C.
Sir:
My power of attorney was filed in the House of Representatives. Will you call for it? Why not?
Respectfully,
Sept. 13, 1892.
S.R. Downey.
Page 26

Cert. No. 1960 wid.
Meridy Smith.
William Smith
Revolutionary War
Passed the House
February 6, 1891
A new bill introduced in the 52d Congress became a law July 14. 1892 See copy

U[U.S. PENSION OFFICE
SEP 15 892
Page 27

December 17, 1907.
Honorable W. C. Adamson,
House of Representatives.
My dear Mr. Adamson:
In reply to your letter dated the 14"" and received the 16” inst., and the enclosed letter of F. E. B. dated Newman, Ca., Dec. 14, I have
the honor to advise you that it appears from the papers in the claim, Widow File 590, that William Smith was born in Nansemond County, Va. in 1751 and resided during the Revolutionary War in Cumberland and
Moore Counties, North Carolina. He entered the service in 1778, and
served 18 months under Captain Radley and Alston, enlisted in August 1780 and served six months under Captains King and Love, also served three months under Captain Adkins, Col. Hadley and was wounded in hip
in battle at Long Crossway, N. C., and six months under Captain Folsom;
Col. Phillip Alston and was wounded in face in engagement with Tories at Col. Alston's house.
He married Meredy (or Meridy) Gamage, March 26, 1835, he was allowed pension on his application executed Dec. 3, 1832, while residing in Coweta Co., Ga., and he died May 8, 1852.
His widow Meredy was allowed pension on an application executed March 14, 1853, while a resident of Coweta Co., Ga. and 48 years of age.
She died January 6, 1894.
A careful search of the records fails to show that a claim for
pension was filed on account of the services of William Bumster in the
Page 28

( 2 )
Revolutionary War. The Census of Pensioners printed in 1840, upon which his name appears was not compiled from the records of this
Bureau but was a report from the Marshals of the several judicial districts under the act for taking the sixth census and cannot always
be verified.
Very respectfully,
First Deputy Commissioner.
Page 29

590
WIDOW, &c.
Revy
File No. 590 Meredy Smith Widow William Smith Pri. Rev. War
___________________
Act: Feb. 3, 1853
Index: - Vol. M. , Page 217
[Arrangementof 1870.]
Page 30

Apr 4, 1912.
Lo Jr. Mrs. Genl. U.S.A.
For tombstone. F.W.
Page 31

1932 Aug. 11 Letter to Hon. J. R McCarl for Mrs. P. Chapria. See carton in Rev In Wm. Smith
S. 1973   N.C.S.
Page 32

S
13.865


Rev Acct
Page 33

1960.
Restoration
Georgia
Meredy Smith
widow of William Smith who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private.
Inscribed on the Washington City Roll at the rate of 80 dollars 00 cents per annum, to commence on the[3d February, 1853. - struck out] 4th September, 1960
Certificate of Pension issued 14" day of May 1867 and sent to Claimant care J M Powell Newman
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 241 Vol. 26

J N Smith Clerk
Sent
Page 34

1.960
Georgia
Meredy Smith widow  of Willian who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the [3 day of March 1833 - struck out] 3rd February 1833 Certificate of Pension issued the 15th day of Sept.7 53 and sent to Jno. T. Neely Present
Sept 4 1860
Recorded on Roll of o Pensions under act [Book . 1818 - struck out], Page 154 Vol A
[Fe [covered] y] 3c/53

1832
Page 35

Hon. L. J. Gartrell, Dec. 15, 1858
Same Dec 12/59
Jno. W. Powell, Aug. 7" 66.

114431-and (13865-160)
Page 36

Pension Office
Sept. 13/53

Sir.
Please certify the time to which the within named pensioner was paid; and ( if in your power) the date of his death.
Very respectfully
Your Ob't. Serv't.
S. Cole
[illegible] Commissioner

F. Burt, Esq. }
3rd Auditor, }
Present }

(see other side.)
Page 37

William Smith, Act 7th June 1832, $80.00 pr am. Paid to 4th March 1852, no date of death on our  Books.
F. Burt
Auditor.
Page 38

U. S. PENSION AGENCY
[stamp FINANCE DIVISION, NOV 12 1892 TO EXAMINER.]
M
KNOXVILLE, TENN. Nov 12, 1892
Respectfully forwarded to the Hon. Green B. Raum Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C. for consideration and instructions to this office
___________
Executed voucher for $12. and affidavit as to old pension certificate case of Merredy Smith ctf no 1960 Revolutionary War
[stamp FINANCE DIVISION, NOV 16 1892 BUREAU OF PENSIONS]

Wm Rule U. S. Pension Agent

304
Page 39

10-3-92
OLD WAR
FILE NO. 590
Meredy wid
W, Smith
[stamp LAW DIVISION, B. MAY 17 1893 P.
RECEIVED.]

White.
ARMY 15 1893
ARMY 15 1893

Fee Sec. Law.
Div act 29,92
Page 40

K.M.
Finance Division.
Department of the Interior, 
BUREAU OF PENSION,
Nov. 22, 1892. Ctf - No. 1960 (Widow)
Meredy Smith
(Revolutionary War)
Respectfully returned to Jno. Bailey
Chief Law Division.

(Fee Section)

[stamp - LAW DIVISION B. NOV 23 P.
RECEIVED.]

W R Shauf
Chief of Division.
7510 b-5 m
Page 41

K.M.
Finance Division.
Department of the Interior,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
Widows. Jany 16. 1893.
Ctf. No. 1960
Meredy Smith
Respectfully returned to Mr. Bailey
Chief Law Division,
(Fee Section)

[stamp - LAW DIVISION B. JAN 17 1893 P.
RECEIVED.]

W B Shauf
Chief of Division.

7094 b-3 m
Page 42

POSTAL CARD - ONE CENT.
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
THIS SIDE IS FOR THE ADDRESS ONLY.

Dep. of Pensions
Washington
D.C.

[stamp - illegible NOV
3 PM 1901 CA]

[stamp - O. W. [illegible] DIVISION
NOV 9 1901
RECEIVED]

[stamp -  U.S. PENSION OFFICE NOV 7 1901]

[old war dept.. - hand written]

Meredy widow - 1960
Anna widow - Jesse 1157
Page 43

Dept. Pensions:
Please let me know as early as convenient concerning a pension paid a Mrs. Smith widow of a Revolutionary soldier, and who lived in Georgia, I think in Coweta Co. I am not get some of his name but we had the nick name of "Hell-nation" Smith. Mrs. Smith was living, alone in the nineties I believe and was one of twenty wo Revolutionary widows at that time. You will greatly oblige by an early reply.
Respectfully
Mrs. R. H. Hardaway Newman

Coweta Co. Ga.
Page 44

Please return to Fee Sec. Law Div.
11/19/92   9
Page 45

Georgia }
Jasper County }
Personally appeared before me Hollis Cooley one of the Judges of of the Superior Court of the state and county aforesaid Abner Chapman Sen. who being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that he was well acquainted with William Smith formerly of Moore County North Carolina), now of Coweta County Georgia,  [who - struck out] ann that the said smith went in to service in the revolutionary war in the year 1778 first under Capt. Hadley, then under Capt. Alston - two tours of nine months each and that he believes he served one or more tours in addition to the above, not knowing or recollecting under what officers,  Abner Chapman [illegible]
 sworn to and subscribed before me this 17th September 1833.
Hollis Cooley J.S.C.

Georgia }
Jasper County }
I Hollis Cooley on of the Judges of the Inferior court of the state and county aforesaid do hereby certify, that Abner Chapman, the person who deposed to the above affidavit is a man of respectability and truth and is entitled to credit on his oath, this 17th September 1833
Hollis Cooley J.S.C.
Page 46

Georgia }
Jasper County } Clerks office of the Superior Court
I Robert Kellam clerk of said court do hereby certify, that Hollis Cooley whose name is aforesigned legally is a lawful acting Justice of the Inferior court of said county and that all due faith + credit ought to be given to his attestation as such. Given under my hand and official seal of office this 17th of September 1833

Robert Kellam Clk
Page 47

Admit as a Pen
2 yr $80- 
Ga:
Page 48

Newman 24th Sept 1833

J L Edwards, Esq.

Dear Sir

Enclosed you will receive William Smith application for a pension Wm Smith is very old and cannot well recollect the times he served, you will discover that he has sworn to 2 years + misc. months service that is including the 2 tours of 9 months each proven by W. Chapman, please sir inform me of the determination of the case as early as convenient and oblige 
Yours James Wood
Page 49

Newman Ga Coweta County April the 9 1894
Mr DA Carpenter US Pension agent Knoxville Tenn

Dear Sir in reply to your return this is to certify that the number of the Pensioners Pension Certificate is 1960 Revolutionary War and the [Pensioner Died - struck through] Pensioner Mrs. Meredy Smith Died the Sixth Day of January 1894 and she had drawed her Pension up to the 4 of November 1893 there is a Rebait of Sixty Dollars Due her and Mr. F.T. Stamps has Paid the expense of Burial and the Doctor Bill is unpaid Please send the check soon and oblige us
Page 50

let us her from you ow to proseed to get the money that Mr. Z.T. Stamps Paid Out for burial Expenses and the Doctor Wants his Pay for his Service
Respectfully T. M. Sewell J.P.

[stamp - U. S. PENSION OFFICE D APR 13 1894
Page 51

Newman Ga Coweta County March the 27 - 1894
Mr. William Rule US Pension Agent Knoxville Tenn
Dear Sir I will write you by request of Z.T. Stamps he wants to hear from you concerning the remainder of the Pension of Mrs Meredy Smith he Z.T. Stamps Paid the Buriell Expences of Mrs. Smith and wants to know if you can pay what is Due up to her Death if you can let us here from you at once
Yours truly
T M Sewell J.P.
Page 52

[stamp - U.S. PENSION D OFFICE
APR 13 1894]
[stamp - FINANCE DIVISION, APR 14 1894 [illegible] of Pensions.]

Bnag
T,
Page 53

Newman Ga., Jany 10, 1894.

Dear sir,
Mrs. Meridy Smith a pensioner whose certificate is No 1960 died Jany 6, 1894.

Please send blanks for drawing her balance. She has no estate. She has minor grand children as heirs. She left debts for Board, Burial Expenses + Physicians Bill.

Respectfully,
Z.T. Stamps.
Page 54

[stamp - FINANCE DIVISION, 
JAN 15 1894
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.]

[stamp - U.S. PENSION OFFICE JAN 15 1894
Page 55

A.B.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
WASHINGTON, June 30th, 1895.

Docket No. 20013, 1892. }
Appeal in the matter of a }
Fee in the Pension Claim of }
Meredy Smith,  }   Action approved.
Widow of William Smith,  }
Private, War of the Revolution, }
Certificate No. 1,960. }

The Commissioner of Pensions:
Sir:
Herewith are returned the papers which accompanied your report of the 19th of June, 1893, upon the appeal of S.R.Downey, of this city, from the action of your office refusing to allow him a fee in the claim of Meredy Smith, widow of William Smith, Certificate No. 1,960, War of the Revolution.
The said Meredy Smith was in receipt of a pension of $12 per month prior to July 14, 1892, on which date it was increased
Page 56

-2-
to $30 per month by Special Act of Congress. The appellant contends that he was attorney in the claim for increase of pension before the Committee on Pensions of the Senate and House of Representatives, and claims a fee for his services. The payment of the fee has been denied on the ground that no power of attorney to Mr. Downey is found. Mr. Downey states that he filed a power of attorney with the papers presented to Congress. The file clerk of the House of Representatives reports that no power of attorney is found with the papers in the case on file in his office. In the absence of a duly executed power of attorney the fee claimed can not be paid. The action of your office is in accordance with Rule 1 relating to the recognition of attorneys in pension cases, and is approved.
Very respectfully, 

Jno. M Reynolds
Assistant Secretary.
Page 57

1960 Knox.
Moved under special act
(
(3-128.)
WIDOW'S PENSION
Rev War 1776   Special act.
Claimant Meredy Smith
P.O. Newman
County Coweta, State Ga.

Soldier William Smith
Rank Private in Regiment Revolutionary War
Rate $30 per month, commencing July 14,1892 [and two dollars a month additional for each child as follows: - struck through]

special act

RECOGNIZED ATTORNEY:
none [LCW - written in left margin]

APPROVALS:
Submitted for Al Sept 2, 1892 Lewis C. White, Examiner.

Approved for increase of pension $30 per month from July 14, 1892 as per special act following McWhorten
Sept 3, 1892, Legal Reviewer.
[initials in left margin illegible]

IMPORTNAT DATES:

Enlisted in Rev War, 1776
Invalid application filed none

[marks X - written in left margin]

Claimant's marriage to soldier from original
Page 58

HISTORY OF ATTORNEYSHIPS:
_______________________
1st appointment_____________, 18__,
By _________________________________

Name and P.O. _______________________________
Recognized, or why not ______________________

2nd appointment_____________, 18__,
By _________________________________

Name and P.O. _______________________________
Recognized, or why not ______________________

3rd appointment_____________, 18__,
By _________________________________

Name and P.O. _______________________________
Recognized, or why not ______________________

___________________________________________________
6-581
Page 59

Wm Smith
[Entered - underlined]
Page 60

Restorations  D.C. 1960
Brief in the Case of Meredy Smith Widow of William Smith a Revolutionary Soldier claimant Coweta County and State of Georgia Qohc Act Feb. 3. 1853.

CLAIM FOR NEW PENSION CERTIFICATE,

PROOF EXHIBITED,
A pension in the roll of Georgia at $80.00 per annum is paid to Sept. 4. 1860 She has returned her old certificate & claims restorative having loyalty - widowhood - 

Returned 6 April 26, 1867 to a pension at $80.00 per annum commencing Sept. 4 1860

W E Trask
Examining Clerk.

Name and residence of Agent.
Claimant
cau J M Powell
Newman
Georgia
Page 61

S. R. DOWNEY,
ATTORNEY.
WASHINGTON, D.C.

O.W. AND II
Cert. No 1960 Wid.
Meridy Smith widow of William Smith Revolutionary War.
_______________
August 5, 1892.
The Commissioner of Pension Washington, D.C.
Sir:
I respectfully inform you that I am the attorney in this case and ask that you cause my fee to be allowed and paid. The act was approved July 14, 1892. The service was rendered in procuring the passage of the act. What is an attorney expected to do in such a case before your Bureau? My power of
Page 62

Attorney is with the papers on the files of the House of Representatives. Will you call for it? Why not? 
Will you allow and pay my fee? Why not?
Reverence is hereby made to your discrimination against me in the cases of Asenath Turner and Anna Maria Young, two other Revolutionary widows, whom I helped to $30.00 per month.
Where is any las requiring an attorney at law to become an attorney-in--fact in order to earn the petty fee  of $10 for a private act?
Respectfully.
S. R. Downey.

[stamp - S.R. DOWEY, ATTORNEY. WASHINGTON, D. C.]
Page 63

U. S. PENSION AGENCY.
KNOXVILLE, TENN., Sept. 14, 1892

Respectfully returned to Hon. Green B. Raum  Com Pensions with information that the rolls of this office show the name of Pensioner to be Merridy Smith - Please make corrections and return. - 

Enclo.
Certif 1960 - special act Rev. War. order to Increase notice of Issue Claim at Meredy Smith 14 of 1833

Wm Rule U.S. Pension Agent.

W.R.

183
Page 64

O. W. and N. Dir.
File No. 590
me G, Ex'r.
Old War No. Ctf. 1960
Meridy Smith, widow of William Smith.
Exception and appeal.
Power of attorney was file where the "allowance" was asked and granted. Where is [the law - underlined] requiring it to be also f filed in the Bureau?

S. R. DOWNEY
ATTORNEY
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Page 65

O. W & N. Div. File No. 590
McG. Ex'r.
Old War No. Ctf. 1,960.
Meridy Smith, Wid. of Wm. Smith.

WASHINGTON, D. C., Oct. 1, 1892.

Sir:-
You are advised that as you did not file a power of attorney [arrow pointing right in left margin] in this Bureau, in above noted claim, prior to its allowance, you have no title to a fee.  You have been repeatedly advised of this fact in other cases of the same nature but  continue to importune the Bureau for fees.
You are informed that hereafter communications from you on this subject in this case, will be filed in the case without reply.
Very respectfully,

Green B. Raum
Commissioner.

S. R. Downey,
City. [Exception and Appeal. - triple underlined]

The Secretary of the Interior, Washington, D. C.
Sir:
I object and except to the [manner - underlined] and [the matter - underlined] of this communication and accepting it as "final section". I appeal from it and assign as error that [it is contrary to law. - underlined]  The communication is not courteous, or civil. I do not apply the proper adjective. Common civility would dictate a more courteous communication. I am told that I  
continue to {importune - underline] the Bureau for fees. "
By "other cases" the Examiner and the Commissioner mean the cases of [Asenath Turner - underlined] and [Anna Maria Young - underlined], both Revolutionary widows. In the latter case, you reversed the Bureaus action an directed the Bureau's action and directed that the fee be allowed. My power of attorney was filed where the "[allowance - underlined] was asked and granted and, I suppose, is [with the papers - underlined]. No law required that I file it [in the Bureau - underlined] "prior to its allowance",
Page 66

or at all. The Commissioner has made no rule requiring it and has [no lawful authority  - underlined] to make one. The "allowance" was not made by the Bureau. The formality of entering it as "admitted" means nothing. The Commissioner did not search out this venerable pensioner and take the steps necessary to give her $360 per annum instead of $144. I did. Having earned my lawful fee, I demand it. Will you require it to be paid?
You and the Commissioner of Pensions and the President ignore section 471 of the Revised Statutes, which is but a re-enactment of the old law giving the Commissioner [any powers at all - underlined]. After I have earned a petty fee, you and the Commissioner and his Examiner may deny it [in violation of law - underlined] and add insult and insolence to the injury; but  the pensioner has had the benefit of services which [neither one of you - underlined] would render her and the denial of the fee is [the unlawful act of all of you - underlined.
Respectfully.
S.R. Downey

October 8, 1892
P.S. In a letter to me dated Oct. 5, 1892, the Commissioner says "All communication from the office to you are couched in respectful and courteous language, such as should occur in correspondence between gentlemen" etc. I think not. This communication certainly is not?
S. R D.
Page 67

[T
G in left margin]
Law Division.           J.M.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D.C.,

June 19' 1893.

In the matter of fee appeal }
in the case of MEREDY SMITH }
widow of WILLIAM SMITH } 24--178.
Private Revolutionary War }
Certificate No. 1,960.
------------------o0o------------------------
Sir:
In response to your call for a report on the appeal of S.R. Downey, of this city, in the matter of fee on the issue of September 8, 1892, I have the honor to submit the following:
Under a Special Act of Congress,approved July 14, 1892, the claimant's pension was increased to thirty dollars per month. The appellant contends that he was her attorney before the Committees of Congress,and that it was through his efforts that the bill was passed. He states that he filed a power of attorney with the Committee on Pensions of the House of Representatives.
There is, however, nothing in the case, save his own communications in reference to the fee, to show that he was at all instrumental in securing the passage of the Ac aforesaid. The File Clerk of the House of Representatives in reply to a communication
Page 68

-2-
from this Bureau, under date of June 6,1893,says "We find no power of attorney among the papers in this office in this case of Meredy Smith."
As the appellant has not power of attorney in this case,he cannot be paid a fee consequence of the issue in question.
The appeal and papers are herewith transmitted.
Very respectfully,
Wm. Lochner
Commissioner.

Honorable Hoke Smith,

Secretary of the Interior.
Page 69

Trask
DECLARATION of Meredy Smith widow of U.S. Smith Rev'y soldier. New address -Newman, Jr.

for Increase of Pension.
(Under section 13, act July 27,1868.)
Pearson Printer, corner 9th and D sts.

FILED BY
R. W. WALKER,
ATTORNEY,
Washington D. C.
Oct. 26/68.

stamp - DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
PENSION 0FFICE. OCT 27 1868]
Page 70

DECLARATION FOR INCREASE OF PENSION.
(Under section 13, act of July 27, 1868.)

STATE OF Georgia }
COUNTY OF Coweta } ss.

On this 21st day of October - A.D. on thousand eight hundred and Sixty eight, personally appeared before me: John H. Cooke within and for the county and State aforesaid, Merely Smith aged 60 years, a resident of Carrow  County in the State of Georgia, who, being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the identical person to whom was granted pension certificate No. 1960, payable at Washington City, at the rate of 6.66 dollars per 7month, issued under the act of February 3rd, 1853: that she makes this declaration in order to secure the increase of her pension to which  she is entitled under the thirteenth section of the act of July 27, 1868.
My post office address is as follows: Newman Georgia and I certify that I am still a widow.
And she hereby constitutes and appoints R. W. WALKER, OF Washington, D.C., her attorney to present and prosecute this claim, and authorizes him to receive and receipt for any certificate, check or draft that may be issued for the same to his order, and to do any other act or thing necessary or that she might do (if personally present with full power of substitution and revocation, hereby countermanding all former authority that may have been given for the above specified purpose.
Meredy Smith X her mark

Julius A. Allen }
Thos. O Hollis }

Also personally appeared Julius A. Allen - and Thos. J. Hollis, residents of the city of Newman, persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit , and who, being by me duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Mrs. Meredy Smith sign her name (or make her mark) to the foregoing declaration; and they further swear that they have every reason to believe, from the appearance of the applicant and their acquaintance with her that she is the identical person she represents herself to be, and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim, and that she is still the widow of William Smith.
Julius A. Allen
Thos. O. Hollis
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 21st day of October, A.D.1868; and I hereby certify that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the presentation of this claim. And I further certify that the foregoing affidavits were read over and fully explained to affiants before signing.
John H. Cooke Judge of the Court of Ordinary of Coweta County the same Georgia County of Record - 

1. Here state the official character of the person administering the oath.
2. This declaration must be excecuted before a JUDGE OR CLERK of a court of record.
Page 71

Increase Brief in the Case [1960 written above] of Meredy Smith. Widow of William Smith Revolutionary War. Newman Cowite County and state of Georgia DC.
Act 2d Sct. Feb. 3. 1853

CLAIM FOR NEW PENSION CERTIFICATE.
PROOF EXHIBITED.

A Pensioner on the roll of Dis. Col at $80 per annum. She has returned her pension certificate with her application for a increase as provided by Act of July 27. 1868

Personal identity widowhood properly established.

Admitted Nov. 3. 1868 to a pension as $96. pr annum to commence July 2d. 1868 -deducting also paym made since - 

W.E. Trask
Examining Clerk.

Name and residence of Agent.
R. W. Walker 472 7th St.
Washington.
Page 72

Meredy Smith
Page 73

Brief in the case of Meredy Smith, widow of William Smith, Coweta County and State of Georgia.
act 3rd February 1853.
Claim ("original," [or for increase - struck 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 June 7. 1832
Marriage proved by certified copy of Records of Court of Ordinary
 (If for increase.)
Has additional evidence ben filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?

John T. Neeley Esq.
Present
Name and residence of Agent

R Beddy
Examining Clerk.
Page 74

Restoration,
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
WIDOW'S PENSION.
1960

I certify that, in conformity with the 2d section of the act of February 3, 1853,
Meredy Smith widow of William Smith
who was a private in the revolutionary war is inscribed on the Pension List, at the rate of Eighty dollars and _ cents per annum, commencing on the 4th September 1860 [3d of February, 1853 - struck through] and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.

Given at the Department of the Interior this First day of May one thousand eight hundred and fifth seven
W.T. Otto
Acting Secretary of the Interior.
Examined and counter signed.
Joseph H. Barrett
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 75

[illegible]
1960 X Meredy Smith

[stamp - FINANCE DIVISION, JAN 151894 BUREAU OF PENSIONS.]

[stamp - U.S. PENSION OFFICE JAN 15 1894]
Page 76

United States Pension Agency,
Knoxville, Tennessee,
January 12, 1894. , 189_

Hon. William Lochren,
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.
Sir:
I have the honor to forward herewith for your consideration, as per instructions contained in circular letter dated February 13, 1893, letter of Z. T. Stamps in regard to the death of Meredy Smith, who was a pensioned as a widow of the Revolutionary War-Special Act dated February 3, 1853, by certificate #1,960.
Very respectfully,
D.A. Carpenter
U. S. Pension Agent.
Page 77

Meredy Smith,


[stamp - DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR PENSION OFFICE
JUL 23 186[ILLEGIBLE]
Page 78

Newman Geo. July 17th 1866

Joseph H. Bartell
Dear Sir
enclosed I send you an application for Mrs. Meredy Smith for restoration to the Pension Rolls. I sent you some little time ago, an affidavit that I had taken the Honesty oath, which I suppose you received, + it is nesissary to send it again. I sent it t enable me to act as Attorney for Mrs. Anna Gay whose application I sent on sometime ago, I hope that together with this will receive early attention as both applicants are very needy. Please let me know what else if anything is necessary to be done
Yours respectfully
John W. Powell
Page 79

Washington D.C.
Sept. 10 1853

Sir:
Enclosed please find additional evidence in the case of Mrs. Meredy Smith widow of William Smith of Georgia for a Pension under 2d Sect. - 3d Feb. 1853 as called for in your letter of August 10th/53
Very Respectfully
Jno. T. Neely.

Cower Pensions }
Present }
Page 80

ORLANDO McCLENDON,
U.S. Commissioner,
NORTHERN DISTRICT OF GEORGIA

Newman, Sept. 17 1892

Hon. Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington

Sir:
Mrs. Meridy Smith desires me to write you and enquire if she has to file any papers or make any claim or proof to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress (Private - #67) approved July 14, 1892 increasing her pension from $12 to 30 per month.  She has received letters from claim attorneys asking to be retained to collect it for her; but does not think she ought to be put to that trouble or expense. If she does have to file any papers, and if you will kindly furnish me a blank, I will see that she executed it free of expense to her.
Respectfully,
Orlando McClendon
Page 81

O W. Wid.
Ctf No. 1966
Meridy Smith
O.W. 759.0

[stamp - OLD WAR AND NAVY OCT 8 1892 FILES]

[stamp- LAW DIVISION, RECEIVED
B. [illegible] 26 [illegible] P. 

[stamp -  US PENSION OFFICE SEP 23 1892]

[LAW DVISION RECEIVED. B. MAY 17 1893 P.]
Page 82

D.
9 Law Division.   M.A.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 

June 6, 1893.

Walter H. French Esq.,
File Clerk,
House of Representatives, City.

Sir: - 
Please forward to this Bureau at your earliest convenience, a power of attorney to S.R. Downey, of this city, alleged to have been filed by him in the claim of Meredy Smith, widow of William Smith, a soldier in the Revolutionary War, for increase of pension allowed under a Special Act of Congress approved July 14, 1892. (H. R. 13.061), Certificate No. 1960, for examination with the view to the settlement of the attorney's fee.
Very respectfully,
Wm. Lochren
Commissioner.

No find no "power of attorney" among the paper in this office in the claim Meerdy Smith.
Respectfully
Walter H French
File Clerk, Clerks Office, Ho. of Reps.
Page 83

[stamp - LAW DIVISION RECEIVED. B. JUN 10 1883 P.]
Page 84

Respectfully returned to the Commr of Pensions with the information that the papers in rtn case of Meredy Smith are now in the hands of the File Clerk, House of Reps. to who the within application should be made

R. S. C. Wilson
Claim Com on Pensions

Dec 18/92
Page 85

G.   M.S.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
Law Division WASHINGTON, D.C., November 1, 1892
[stamp - LAW DIVISION RECEIVED B. DEC 17 [ILLEGIBLE]]

Chairman
Committee on Pensions
House of Representatives, 
Washington, D.C.

Sir:

I have the honor to request that you will forward to this Bureau the power of attorney to S. R. Downey in the claim of Meredy Smith, widow of William Smith, a soldier in the Revolutionary Way, for increase of pension allowed under a special Act of Congress approved July 14, 1892 (H.R. 13061} Cert. No. 1,960, for examination with the view to the settlement of the fee.
Very respectfully,
Charles P. Lincoln
Acting Acting Commissioner.

[stamp - CONGRESSIONAL U.S. BUREAU OF PENSIONS DEC 15 [illegible]}
Page 86

O. W. and N. Division
Cert. No. 1960 widow. Meridy Smith, widow of William Smith Revolutionary War 
September 12, 1892.
The Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.

Sir:
I again notify you that I was the attorney for the pensioner in this case and am entitled to the fee of ten (10) dollars allowed by law. The power of attorney was filed in the House of Representatives January 11, 1892. You have no rule,  authority to make a rule, requiring the power of attorney in such a case to be filed in your Bureau. You had no power to grant
Page 87

an increase. No part of the service in service is rendered in your Bureau. Upon the approval of the act July 14, 1892, my right to the fee became fixed. Will yo allow and pay the fee? Why not?
Respectfully
S. R. Downey
[stamp - US PENSION OFFICE SEP 15 1592]

Address
S.R. DOWNEY
ATTORNEY
WASHINGTON, D.C.

P.S. I ask your attention to the cases of Asenath Turner and Anna Maria Young both Revolutionary widows. You gave them sentiment (in your annual report). While I helped each to $30 a month, "a dollar a day, almost. My fee?

S.R.D.
Page 88

[J.J. Goodrum,
Leather,
and Home made Shoes. - struck trough]

Newman, Ga. Dec. 20, 1890

S. R. Downey Esq --

Dear Sir:
I have received yours of 28th Nov. Replying will state that I would of course like to have an increase of my pension as a Revolutionary widow. But before proceeding I would like to know as to the cost of obtaining the increase.
Yours Very Resply
Mrs. Merridy Smith

[stamp - S. R. DOWNEY,
ATTORNEY, WASHINGTON, D.C.]

[stamp - U S PENSION OFFICE.
SEP 15 1892]

Ans'd.
The Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.

Sir:
The pensioner gave me a formal power of
Page 89

attorney; which was sent with the ill to the House of Representatives, January 11, 1892. Will you recognize that as evidence of my authority as attorney? Why not? Respectfully. S. E. Downey
September 13, 1892.

O. W. and N.
Cet. No. 1960 wid.
Meridy Smith, widow of William Smith Revolutionary War

Increase of pension by special act $12 to $30.00
Letter of pensioner.
S. R.DOWNEY ATORNEY'WASHINGTON D.C.

In 1890 Answered. P.O. Newman, Coweta Co. Georgia
Page 90

Cert. No. 1960 Wid.
Meridy Smith
widow of William Smith
Revolutionary War


Letter of Thomas W. Grimes
MC
[stamp - US PENSION OFFICE SEP 15 1892]
endorsed by 
S.R. DOWNEY
ATTORNEY.
WASHINGTON, D.C.
Page 91

Cert. No. 1960 Meridy Smith, widow.
House of representatives U.S.
Washington, D.C. Feb 7t. 1891.

S.R. Downey, Esq.
Washington D.C.
I beg to say to you that the bill to increase the pension of Mrs. Meridy Smith passed the House last night. - I would suggest that you follow it up in the Senate.
Respectfully,

Thos. W. Grimes.

September 13, 1892.
The Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Sir: 
This communication goes to show you that I was [acting - underlined] as attorney for the pensioner in an attempt to secure an increase from $12 per month to $30 per month. Again in the 52d Congress Congress, I filed a
Page 92

power of attorney, January 11, 1892, and caused a bill for an act to be introduced. The result was the act approved July 14, 1892. It is now [two months - underlined]. Have you issued a new certificate? Have you recognized me, as attorney? Will you cause my fee to be paid? Why not? I call your attention to the cases of [Asenath Turner - underlined] and [Anna Maria Young - underlined] both "venerable" Revolutionary widows, in which you have endeavored to deprive me of my lawful fee. What will you do? S. R. Downey.


[stamp - S.R. DOWNEY, ATTORNEY, WASHINGTON, D.C.
Page 93

Cert. No. 1960.
Smith, Meridy.
Memoranda

P.O.:
Newman,
Coweta county, Georgia

Abstract of the evidence sent to Congress.

[stamp - US PENSION OFFICE SEP 16 1892]

Endorsement of S. R. DOWNEY, ATTORNEY, WASHINGTON, D.C.
asking this fee
Page 94

[Meridy Smith - underlined] Cert. No. 1960. Rev. widow.
[William Wise - underlined], aged 65 years, }
{Charles H. Stamps - underlined], aged21 years }
Newman, Coweta co., Georgia,
[stamp in right margin - S.R. DOWNEY,
ATTORNEY. WASHINGTON, D.C.]
declared ___________________as follows:
They know the petitioner for the reason that they are her neighbors and know that her pension of $144 per annum is not enough to afford her a comfortable support. She has no real estate and no personal estate except a bed and bedclothes, two or three chairs, a chest, bucket and gourd and scant wearing apparel. She has not even a stove. She is now about 85 years of age and not very healthy. She makes her home with L.J. Stamps, where she has lived for the last 16 years and is cared for by the family of said Stamps. She needs the constant attention of another person. They further declare +c. Wm. Wise
C.H. Stamps

Memorandum.
Sent to Hon. Thomas W. Grimes, M.C. House of  Reps. Jany. 10 1891, with letter citing precedents wrote to Mrs. Smith.
(over) [stamp - S. R. DOWNEY, ATTORNEY, WASHINGTON, D.C.]
Page 95

The Commissioner of Pensions Washington, D.C.
Sir:
In your annual report, you indulged in [sentiment - underlined], about the "venerable" widows of Revolutionary soldiers. Did you help them to [a dollar of increase- underlined]? In the cases of [Asenath Turner - underlined] and [Ann Maria Young - underlined], you have attempted to deprive me of my petty fee of $10 for the service. In this case, the pensioner has been entitled to $30 per month, about "a dollar a day", from July 14, 1892, now [two months - underlined]. I have had no word from you. Do you intend to allow and pay my fee? Why not? This memorandum shows the condition of the pensioner in January 1891, as shown by two witnesses.
Respectfully, S.R. Downey
Sept.13, 1892.
Page 96

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
WIDOW'S PENSION.'
I certify that in conformity with the 2d section of the act of February 3, 1853, Meredy Smith widow of William Smith who was a private in the Revolutionary war is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum commencing on the 3d of February, 1853, and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.
Given at the Department of the Interior this fifteenth day of September one thousand eight hundred and fifty three
R. W Clelland
Secretary of the Interior.

Examined and Countersigned.

L.P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 97

Washington City, DC
May 6th 1853

Sir:
Enclosed you will find the declaration of Mrs. Meredy Smith widow of William Smith a revolutionary Pensioner in the State of Georgia for a Pension under the Second Section of the act of 3d Feby 1853 -

Yours
Very Respectfully
Jno. T Neely

To the Commissioner of Pensions
Page 98

State of Georgia }
County of Coweta } ss.
On this the first day of September A.D. 1853 - personally appeared  before me a Justice of the Peace in and for said county, Andrew J. Berry and Batty H. Mitchell who being sworn according to law say that they are citizens of Augusta County, Georgia, and that Mrs. Meredy Smith was the wife of William Smith who was a Revolutionary Soldier and resident in Coweta County Georgia, who draws a Pension under the act of 1833, at $80.00 per annum, and that she is now his Widow and the identical person who makes application for Pension and that they have no interest in the application as Attorneys Agents or otherwise }  Andw J. Berry. Notary Public
Batty H. Mitchell

Sworn to + subscribed before me the day + year above written and I certify that said Andrew J. Berry and Batty H. Mitchell are refutable and credible citizens of Coweta County Georgia and that I am not interested in the result of the application of Mrs. Meredy Smith for Pension
William B. Brown J.P.
Page 99

Georgia }
Coweta County }
I Hillsberry R. Harrison Clerk of the Superior Court in + for said County and State do hereby certify that William B. Brown whose genuine signature appears to the within affidavit and upon whom the same was made is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly qualified and commissioned and authorized by Law to administer Oaths and take acknowledgements and was such at the date thereof, and I further certify that I am not interested in the result of the application of Mrs. Meredy Smith for Pension. 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Seal of Office this September the 2nd A.D. 1853
Hillsberry R. Harrison C.S.C.
Coweta County Ga.
Page 100

State of Georgia Coweta County
J. H. R. Allen a justice of the Inferior Court of said county do hereby certify that I well remember attesting the application of Mrs. Meredy Smith to restoration to the Pension roll, and of administering the oaths to the party + witnesses to the same, which I am informed by Gibson W. Powell, the attorney at law for said Mrs. Meredy Smith in said application file in the Pension office. 
Given under my hand + official signature, this April 22nd 1867
H.K. Allen JIC

Georgia }
Coweta County }
I William Goldsberry clerk of the Inferior Court of said county, do hereby certify that H.R. Allen, whose signature appears to the foregoing certificate + that the said signature is genuine, is a Justice of the Inferior Court of said county, duly qualified + commissioned as such + whose signature is entitled to full faith + credit as well in said court as are other courts of Justice.

Given under my hand + seal of office, I being the proper custodian of the seal of said court this April 22nd 1867
Wm. Goldsberry CIC
Page 101

[seal - FINANCE DIVISION. BUREAU OF PENSIONS. JAN 10 1893]
Page 102

Georgia }
Coweta County }
Personally appeared Before me J. M. Sewell a Justice of the Peace for said county Meredy Smith who on oath says I have Lost or mislaid my Certificate for $12 Dollars per month and Certificate is not in my possession
Meredy Smith X her mark

Sworn to and Subscribed before me ]
this the 30 Day of December 1892 }
T. M. Sewell J.P.

I certify that Meredy Smith did destroy he last voucher for 12 Dollars per month in my presence this the 30 Day of Dec. 1892
T. M. Sewell J.P.
Page 103

State of Georgia Coweta County 
Personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace of State and County aforesaid Merridy Smith who on Oath Says that my Pension Sertificate for Twelv Dollars Pr month has bin mis laid or lost and is not in my Possession and I have disstroid the voucher that I got with my last check in the Presence of the officer
Meredy Smith X her mark

Sworn to and Subscribed }
before me this 4 Day of November }
1892 } T M Sewell J.P.
Page 104

[stamp - FINANCE DEPARTMENT 
BUREAU OF PENSIONS
JAN 1 [missing]

1960.
m

U.S.PENSION AGENCY
KNOXVILLE, TENN. Jany 7, 1893
Respectfully referred to the Hon. Green B. Raum Commissioner of Pensions Washington DC for consideration and instructions to this office.

Executed voucher for $12. affidavit as to the lost pension certificate case of Meridy Smith Ctf. no. 1960 issued [hidden] of Sept. 181892
[stamp - FINANCE DIVISION TO EXAMINER JAN 14 1893]

Wm. Rule U.S. Pension Agent
Page 105

24
____
178.

2013

Appeal received Oct 10, 1892
Dated ____________, 189__
S. R. Downey
City
From ____________
SUBJECT:

Appeal in the pension claim No. Cert. 1960
Meridy Smith widow of William Smith
O.W.
[over.]
Docket No. 2013. 1892

Department of the Interior CT 25 1892,  189__
Respectfully referred to the Commissioner of Pensions for report. [illegible] Assistant Secretary.

Report received _____________, 189__ and filed herewith.
FINAL ACTION. [illegible initials]

June 2[illegible] 1893
Rejection Affirmed

7530 b-5 m
Page 106

O.W. and N. Division
Cert. No.1960 Rev. Wid.
Meridy Smith widow of William Smith. 590

September 29, 1892. The Commissioner of Pensions Washington, D.C.
[stamp - US PENSION OFFICE OCT 8 1892]
Sir:
The act increasing the pension of Meridy Smith was approved July 14,1892. I was her attorney. Will you allow and pay my fee? Why not?
Respectfully.
S.R. Downey.
Address
S,R, Downey.
ATTORNEY, 
WASHINGTON, D.C.
 [stamp - LAW DIVISION, RECEIVED . MAY 17 1893 P.]
Page 107

Bounty Land
13865-160-
CONGESSIONAL.
For 590
Pension of No. 1960
NAME OF CLAIMANT
Meridy Smith
P.O.
NAME OF SOLDIER.
William Smith
Co. _____Reg't Revolutionary War

The above-named claimant is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, a bona fide resident of the District (or , if a Senator, the State) which I represent; and this inquiry is not made at the request of any pension attorney or claim agent.
I desire to be advised as to 
[stamp - SECOND [Faded] COMMISSION Missing] Papers on this pension county land claim
C L Moses
These slips are exclusively for the use of Senators and Representatives in Congress, and when used by any other person will not receive consideration. Senators and Representatives will greatly aid the Bureau of Pensions in giving them an early answer, if they will fill and use these slips in making calls in pension cases.
mc.
Wm. Lochren Commissioner.
(12659-[illegible]) 6-825
Page 108

11154
13865
26259
27656
3[illegible]]31
50890
Page 109

Calendar No., 822.
52D CONGRESS
1st Session.

SENATE.

REPORT
No. 790.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
JUNE 8, 1892. -- Ordered to be printed.

Mr. PADDOCK, from the Committee on Pensions, submitted the following
REPORT:
To accompany H. R. 5722.]
The Committee on Pensions having had under consideration the bill (H. R. 5722) increasing the pension of Meridy Smith, adopt and submit as their own the report of the House Committee on Pensions on the same, presenting the statement of facts and conclusions therein, and recommend the passage of the bill.

HOUSE REPORT.

The Committee on Pensions, to whom was referred the bill (H.R.5722) increasing
the pension of Meridy Smith, have considered the same and respectfully report as follows:
A similar bill was before your committee at the second session of the Fifty-first Congress, and the favorable report therein, numbered H. R. 3689, is adopted by your committee as their report, and the bill is returned, recommending its passage.

[House Report No. 3689, Fifty-first Congress, second session.]

The Committee on Pensions, to whom was referred the bill (H. R. 13061) increasing
the pension of Mrs. Meridy Smith, have considered the same and report:
Meridy Smith is the widow of William Smith, who served as a soldier in the Revolutionary
war. She is now receiving a pension at $12 per month under the general law pensioning widows of the soldiers of the Revolution.
Accompanying the bill is the testimony of William Wise and C. H. Stamps, citizens
of Newman, Ga., setting forth that Mrs. Smith's pension of $144 per year is insufficient
to afford her a comfortable support, and that she has no property whatever
aside from a few poor articles of household furniture and wearing apparel; also that
she is now about 85 years old and requires the constant attention of another person.
The passage of the bill is recommended.
Page 110

[PRIVATE -NO. 67.]

An act increasing the pension of Meridy Smith, a Revolutionary pensioner,
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the Secretary of the Interior be, and he is hereby, authorized and directed to increase the pension of Meridy Smith, widow of William Smith, a soldier in the Revolutionary war, from twelve dollars per month to thirty dollars per month and pay the same to her during her natural life.
Approved, July 14, 1892
 [stamp-BOARD OF REVIEW. SPE 3 1892]

ctf 590

STM
A.L.M.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
August 29, 1892.
The above is a true coy of the original as certified by the Department of State.
E M Dawson
Chief Clerk.

[stamp - [illegible] AND NAVY FILES AUG 31 1892]
Page 111

June 19/93 Case to Secty.
June 13/93 action approved
July 5/93 atty advised Fees.
Aprl. 17/94 T. M. Sewell adr. reply [illegible] depending cong. act. as to const. of 4718 RP. etc. gs z.
[stamp - Reimbursement act 1668. 1895. Accounting Office a Certificate No. 7709 for $163.00 Appropriation [illegible} to Interior Department for [illegible] [illegible signature]
Sewell -  1901 Mrs. R.H. Hardaway Newman Ga.

1907 Dec. 17. Hist to Hon. W.C. Adamson M.C. by order of Mr. Davenport. 1" Dep. Comm.

Revolutionary War, 
Special Act Increase
(3-232.)
No. 1.960
W. File 590

Meredy Smith Widow of William Smith
Rank Pri
Company Revolutionary War
Regiment
Rate per Month. $30 
Commencing July 14. 1892
Ending
Knoxville Agency.
Issued Sep. 8, 1892
Mailed , 18.
Fee $ No Atty

Sept. 17/92 P.A Jno ctf +c with information that the records of this office show name to be Meredy if his records differ to correct them. E.S.

Oct. /92 To S.R. Downey not entitled to fee and  [illegible]
Nov. 1/92 Chairman Comm on Pension , H.R,, for p.a. $ S. R. Downey, E.

Nov. 22, 92 Ex-voucher for payment on special Act, ret'd to P.A. with authority to accept waiving surrender of [illegible] same as Nov. 9. 68 + sup. ctf. under act Mch 19, 86 -

Jany 16. 93. Ex. vo - for payment on special act retd to P. Smith authority to waive surrender of PC + Sup. ctf. + infd of action of Nov. 22 - 92 K.M.

June 5/93 File Clerk House of Reps to forward home of aty S. R. Downey.

1800 Law Div. adv. reply 
Jan. 22/94. Z T. [illegible]