Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 9874, for William Smith, Massachusetts
Page 1

(3 - 1776)
SERVICE
Md
Mass
Smith, William
NUMBER
R. 9874
CONTENTS
born in Buckinghamshire Eng. in 1755
was in British Army.
res. Chatham Co N.C. in 1834
Page 2

N1 33083
Declaration of
William Smith for
a pension
9874
Act 7th June 18 1832
Page 3

Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of
the 7th of June, 1832.
State of North Carolina 
Chatham County 
Court of Pleas and quarter Sessions
May Term 1834
On this 12th day of May AD 1834 personally appeared before
the Justices of said Court William Smith a resident of Chatham
County in the State of North Carolina aged 79 years who
being first duly sworn according to Law doth on his oath
make the following the 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 1777 with Capt Sutton and served in the [blank]
Regiment of the Continental line under the following named
officers.
He was born in Buckinghamshire England in the year 1775 [1755]
he enlisted in the British Army and came to America as a
Private in the 16th Regiment of Infantry and Joined Genl.
Howes Army at Halifax in Nova Scotia. he remained with
Genl Howes Army and was with him at the Battle of
Flat Bush in the State of New York on Long Island from
thence he went with some troops to quible where he joined
Genl Burguoyne's Army from thence he went with the army
and was with them at the Battle of Still water where he
was taken Prisoner by the Americans under the command
of Genl Gates and Arnold he was marched as a prison
of War to the Hudson River and down the same to Fish
Kill about 40 or 50 miles above the city of New York where
himself and a number of other Prisoners Enlisted in the
American Army he was placed in a company which
he thinks was commanded by Captain Shaw in a Regiment commanded by Baron DeKalb from thence he
Marched to Morristown and joined the Grand Army Commanded by Genl. Washington and from thence he marched
under Genl Gates, Arnold and Baron DeKalb to the Valley
Forge and went into winter quarters afterwards he was
in the Battle of Monmouth, Camden,
Page 4

Guilford Court House, and Eutaw Springs the whole of which
time he thinks he was commanded by Captain Shaw and
Brevet Captain Davis shortly after the Battle of Eutaw
he was marched to Charleston Solar and about 20 miles from
Charleston he was discharged at Bacons Bridge his
discharge was signed by General Greene which he preserved
for many years when his [illegible] was burnt and his discharge consumed
being a very illiterate man and his memory much impaired
by age and infirmity he cannot state of his own recollection
the time of his entering the service or his discharge therefore
he thinks however that the Battle at Eutaw springs was
fought on the 16th August the year he does not recollect
and from the above causes he cannot state the precise
length of his service but he thinks he is positively
certain that it could not have been less than four or
Four and a half years during the whole of which
time he was actively engaged in the American service
and was not employed in any civil pursuit
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or
annuity except the present and declares that his name
is not on the Pension Roll of any agency of any State
or Territory in the Union
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid
William Smith
his mark
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion
that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary
Soldier and served as he states
Page 5

I Thomas Ragland Clerk of the Court of pleas and quarter
Sessions for the County and State aforesaid 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
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my
hand and seal of Office this 12th day of
May AD 1834
[illegible]
Thos Ragland Clk
Page 6

REJECTED
9874
P.O. 
William Smith
Service: [left blank]
Enlisted: [left blank], 18 [left blank].
Discharged: [left blank], 18 [left blank].
Application filed: [left blank], 18 [left blank].

The printed list of 1852
gives causes of rejection as;
["Re-enlisted:" crossed out] "Was a deserter."

Attorney: [left blank]
P.O. [left blank]
[left blank] Recognized.
[left blank] Contract.
[left blank] Cert. of Dis. 
Searched for [left blank], 18 [left blank].
Page 7

William Smith
North Carolina
9873
Suspended, see let
Jas A. Craig Aug [illegible]
1835
Col. GG. Brewer Sept 26 35
" Jas A. Craig Oct 9 "
" Hon Wm Montgomery 29 [illegible] 36
" " " " 29 Mar 36
" " A Rencher 10 May "
" " Wm Montgomery [illegible] "
" " Same " [illegible] "
" Same - June 27 1836
" " Same Aug 13 1836
Let 24 let [illegible]
3 nov
Act June  [illegible]
Page 8

Wm Smith
NC 
Rejected [illegible]
Hon L William's
Jury [illegible] 1837
do do Jan 7 8 1838
Letter to George Luther
Martha's Vineyard N.C.
1843
[illegible]
9874
Act 7 June 1837
Md 
Mass
Page 9

Land Office, Annapolis, October 1st, 1835.
Sir,

	Yours of the 26th ultimo, in relation to the application of William Smith for a pension, was received. You say he states in his declaration that he enlisted in 1777, in a Company commanded by Capt. Sutton, and was subsequently under the command of Capt. Shaw. I find upon the Master rolls of the Maryland Continental troops, as also upon the rolls of the Militia, a number of persons by the name of William Smith, there and six upon the rolls of the regular troops (two in the same Regiment)—By the rolls and Army Ledgers of the revolution however, it does not appear that either Sutton or Shaw were officers in the Maryland line—these names are not to be found on the records,—On comparing the statement of William Smith with the rolls, I do not think they afford any evidence whatever of his service.

						I am very respectfully
						Yr obt. st.
						G. G. Brewer

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Page 10

Land Office, Annapolis, March 1st 1836,
Dear Sir,

	I really owe you an apology for not replying to your letter of the 12th ultimo until now—the letter in some manner or other got mislaid, and my engagements have been such that I assure you it entirely escaped my recollection until within a few moments ago.—As respects the case of William Smith whom you say served in Captain Dobson’s Company, I have to state, that Captain Dobson indeed belonged to the sixth Maryland Regiment and commanded a Company in that Regiment.—I find upon the Muster roll of the 6th Regiment, the names of two William Smiths—the first enlisted in Captain Dobson’s Company the 19th of February 1777, and on the 26th of April 1779, was made prisoner of War.—The other William Smith enlisted in Captain [illegible] company for during the war, and on the 10th of August 1780, deserted.—I should think that the first named William Smith was the one alluded to in your letter, as I [illegible], that he enlisted in 1780, and [illegible] does not [illegible] [illegible] was made prisoner of War.
([illegible] haste)

						I am respectfully
						Your Obt. Srvt.
						G.G. Brewer

James A. Craig, Esq.

[Note written vertically on the left side]: 
The claimant was taken prisoner at the Battle of Still Water Sept 1777
And enlisted in the american army subsequent to that time.
Page 11

Jas A. Craig
Augt. 6. 1835
OC

Rec'd Vol. 40, pa 295.
Page 12

Department of War
					Pension Office
					Aug. 6. 1835

Sir,

	I have examined the additional papers in the case of William Smith and have placed them on file. The applicants name & to Command one that unless [crossed out] the claimant [end of crossed out] hear [crossed out] that a [end of crossed out] name & gear the names of the officers the [illegible] [illegible] what he alleges to have served, once the [illegible] to what [illegible] it belonged, [illegible] all be [illegible] to have his leave. By the rolls [illegible] the office: The [illegible] of the [illegible] A [illegible] of 9th [illegible] [illegible] state [illegible] seal [illegible . . .]
							I am

Jas A. Craig Esq.
Haw River [illgible]
Orange Co.
N.C.
Page 13

G. G. Brewer
26 Sept. 1835
OC
Rec’d [illegible] 330
Page 14

Depart of War
						Pension Office
						Sept. 26 1835

Sir,

	William Smith of NC has made application for a pension at this Depart under the Act of Congress passed June 7, 1832, for services alleged to have been performed in one of the Maryland Cont. Regt.; his statement [illegible] [illegible] some what impartial.
	He says that he enlisted at Falkin May [illegible] 1777 [illegible] a company commanded by Capt. Sutton – was subsequently under the command of Capt. Shaw. Then marched to the South: was then under Captain Davis and Colel. Hawad Gunby.

	Please [illegible] [illegible] me with such evidence in the Archives as your office may afford.

							Yours

G. G. Brewer Esq.
Annapolis,
Md.
Page 15

Jas A Craig
Aug 35
OC

Rec’d Vol. 40 pa. 341
Page 16

Depart of War
						Pension Office
						Oct. 9th, 1835

Sir,
	From a letter from G. G. Brewer, Reg. of the Land Office at Annapolis, Maryland, I am informed that several persons by the name of William Smith are found both on the Continental rolls of that state; and that it further appears from the rolls and Army Ledger, that no persons either by the name of Sutton or Shaw [illegible] officers in the Maryland line. William Smith claims to have served under both. The evidence being unsatisfactory, the claim will remain suspended.
						I am respectfully,

Jas A. Craig Esq.
Haw Riv.
NC
Page 17

Hon. Wm. Motgomey
Jany 29 38
OC

Rec’d. Vol. 40. pa. 406.
Page 18

Depart of War
						Pen Off
						Jany 29, 1836

Sir,
	I have carefully examined the papers in the case of William Smith, and find that it does not come within the rules so far as regards proof. 
	Mr. Smith seems to have but an imperfect knowledge of his service, for much so, that his statement affords no clue by which his service can be traced upon the rolls.
	Until further evidence and a more clear and satisfactory statement shall have been furnished the case will remain suspended.
						[illegible]

Hon. Wm. Montgomery
Ho Reps
Page 19

Hon Wm. Montgomy
March 22 1836
OC

Rec’d. Vol. 40. pa. 450
Page 20

Depart of War
						Pension Office  
						March 22, 1836

Sir,  

	I have rec’d the additional papers & evidence in the case of Wm Smith and have filed them with his papers.  
	Wm Smith alleges that he was made a prisoner at the Battle of Still Water, and that he subsequently enlisted with the American army in one of the Maryland Regt. in the fall of 1779 in Capt Dobsons Company. The proof in this case has not been met or the rules [illegible] and the claim has been suspended. The letter of Mr. Brewer of Annapolis states that one Wm Smith enlisted in Capt. Dobsons Company at the 19th of Feby 1777, and was made a prisoner [illegible] 1779. That another of the men name in the same Regt. enlisted in 1780 and deserted. 	
	It will be sadly [illegible] that this extract from the Master rolls of Maryland [illegible] no evidence in support of the claim. The Battle of Stillwater took place in September 1777 and until that [illegible] Smith by his own account was with [illegible] of [illegible] the William Smith who enlisted into Capt. Dobsons Company in February 1777 must have been some other man of the same name.  

				The papers remain on file.  
							[illegible]  


Hon. Wm Montgomery  
Ho Reps
Page 21

H. R.  
May 10th 1836  
OC

Rec’d Vol. 40. pa. 483
Page 22

Department of War
Pension Office
May 10th, 1836

Sir,  

	In reply to your letter of the 9th instant I have the honor to state that the papers of William Smith forwarded to this office by Jas A Craig are still upon our files: the evidence in support of the service not being satisfactory. Of this fact I informed D. Cray in my letter of the 9th of Oct: and again through the Hon. Wm Montgomery on the 29th of Jany & 22nd day of March last. No additional proof has since been rec’d. Copies of my letters are herewith enclosed.  

					I have the honor to be  
					Very Respectfully,  
					  Your obed. sevt.  
					     J. L. Edwards  

Hon. A. Rencher 
House of Representatives
Page 23

Mr. Wm Montgomery  
May 21 1836  
OC  

Rec’d Vol. 40. pa. 493
Page 24

Depart of War
Pension Office
May 21 1836

Sir,  

In reply to your letter upon the subject of the claim of William Smith I have the honor to state, that his papers are still upon our files, no additional proof having been furnished since I had the honor of writing you on the 19th of Jany and 22nd of March last, stating that the evidence already exhibited was not satisfactory. The same information was also communicated to Dr. Craig, in Oct. last, and to the Hon. A. Rencher on the 10th of the present month.  

						I have the honor 

Hon. Wm. Montgomery
Ho Rep
Page 25

Hon. Wm. Montgomery
May 31, 1836  
OC  

Rec’d. Vol. 40. Pa. 501
Page 26

Department of War
Pension Off
May 31, 1836

Sir,  

	I have rec’d your note of the 30th upon the subject of the claim of Wm. Smith, and Jn Reeves decd and a reply have the honor state,  that your [illegible] or relation to the case of the former was [illegible], for I [illegible] by [illegible] to the case, that I had the honor of addressing you on the report on [illegible]  March & 21st [illegible]. The evidence in support of the claim is not sufficient to justify the admission of it; of this fact, I informed Hon Mr Renches on the 10th [illegible]  

	I have rec’d no [illegible] from any person on the subject of the claim of Jno Reeves dec’d., [illegible] my last requiring that the Department should be informed of the time of his death.  

						I have the honor  

Hon. Wm. Montgomery  
Ho. Reps
Page 27

Hon. L. Williams
Jany 30, 1837  
OC  

Rec’d. Vol. 45. pa. 25
Page 28

Depart of War
Pension Office
Jany 30, 1837

Sir,
	I have exam'd the affidavit of Mr. Boudy in relation to the name of William Smith & have placed it on file with the papers. From a close inspection of all Mr. Smiths papers & on comparing his statement with the evidence submitted in support of his claim, and with the rolls of the Maryland line, there cannot be a doubt but that this claim is a bad one. Neither the statement of Mr. Smith himself, or of Mr. Boudy, his principal witness can be entitled to much credit arising from the conflicting & contradictory statements made by each.
Smith alleges that he joined the American army in the fall of 1777 for 2 years, and that year in the spring of 1780 for during the war in Col. Howards Reg’t under Capt. Shaw & continued by the [illegible] [illegible] 1781: Again he says that in 1780 he enlisted for 2 years under Capt. Dobson and Gunby's [. . .]
Page 29

…regiment and left the army – 1781. Having resided in N.C. since 1783.
	Jn Boudy says in the affidavit of May 7, 1835, that he has remember of seeing Smith at the South occasionally, before & after the time of the evacuation of Charleston—Dec 1782. In March 1836 he says that he did not recollect seeing Smith before the year 1780, and in the affidavit of Jany 11 1837 he says that he remembers that Mr. Smith enlisted in the fall of 1777 at Valley Forge; and that he also knew of his enlisting again in 1780 for two years, and that he was called “[illegible]” or “English Smith”. Again: in the affidavit of [illegible] 1835, he says that in the year 1782 or 83 while in the Southern army, he remembers well of seeing William Smith. There was one William Smith in Capt. Dobson Co., and he enlisted in July 1777 & was made prisoner of war, and [struck out] in [illegible] 1779, and another in Capt. Morris Co. who enlisted for during the war & deserted in Augt 1780. The first named […]
Page 30

[…] of course was not the present claimed, the latter may have been, and the presumption [illegible] from the facts before stated, & that entry upon the roll [illegible] [illegible]. [illegible] that of he did [illegible . . .] It may be [illegible] that he deserted. It may be proper to state that the statements Jno Boudy, who has made the [crossed out] several affidavits before named, cannot, or does not write the name: The claim is now rejected & the papers [illegible] on files. Mr. Craigs letter- [illegible]

						I have the honor

Hon. L. Williams
HR
Page 31

Hon. Wm. Montgomery
June 27 – 36
O.C.

Recd. Vol. 44, pa 13
Page 32

War Dept
Pension Office
June '36

Sir
	I have the honor to return you the letter of James A. Craig Esq., and to inform you that its enquiries respecting the cases of John Reeves & William Smith have been answered by communicating to you which probably had not been received by him at the date of his letter. The suggestions of Mr. Craig respecting the claim of Charles Whitmore do not solve the difficulties heretofore communicated.
	Please to communicate the above to Mr. Craig as our reply to his letter to this office of the 15th inst.

Hon. Wm. Montgomery
Ho. Reps.
Page 33

Hon. Wm. Montgomery
Aug. 13, 1836
O.C.

Recd. Vol. 44 pa. 33
Page 34

War Dept
Pension Off
Aug. 13, 1836

Sir
	In reply to yours of 30 ult I have the honor to inform you that Mr. Craig is duly informed upon every point of his enquiries respecting the cases of John Reeves dec’d & William Smith. As to Mr. Craigs opinions respecting the decisions of the Dept. in those cases. I may be allowed the remark that they are consistent with the regulations which a higher authority has adopted for my guidance in the adjustment of claims under the act of 7 June 1832.

Hon. Wm. Montgomery
Albright
N.C.
Page 35

Hon. W. Montgomery
Augt 29, 1836
O.C.

Recd. Vol. 44 pa. 46
Page 36

War Dept. Pension Office
August 29th, 1836
Sir,
	Your letter of the 25th inst respecting the cases of James Hart and John Reives and enclosing their additional statements, has been received. Agreeably to your request I have written to Dr. James A. Craig respecting them.
	In the cases of William Smith and John Reives decd I enclose copies of letters to you of the 22d March and 9th July last. These letters will show [crossed out] the objections to the [illegible] [end of crossed out] what is required in their cases.


[initials or signature: [illegible]]

Hon. W. Montgomery
Albright
N.C.
Page 37

[illegible] J. A. Craig
[illegible] 24, 1836
O.C

Rec vol 39  
Page 59
Page 38

War Dept, Pen. Office
Sept 24th, 1836

Sir,
	Your letter of the 12th inst has been rec’d. I herewith enclose my letter to you of the 9th of July last and refer you to my letters to you [illegible] be W. Montgomery and to [illegible] of the 29th ult respecting the cases of James Hart, C John Minnis, John Reeves and Wm. Smith, which you have no doubt received before this time.

[illegible] James A. Craig
Haw River
N.C.
Page 39

Depart of War
Pension Off. Jany 8, 1838

Sir,
	I have given the claim of William Smith of N.C. a very careful examination, and herewith return the letter of Doct. Craig, upon that subject and have the honor to state, that the Depart cannot from the proof that has been presented come to a conclusion favorable to the applicant.
	If any of the allegations of Mr. Smith are correct, he was enlisted under the Act of March 1818, yet he never applied [crossed out] for the benefit of that act [end of crossed out] under that act, nor under that of June 7, 1832, until five years after its passage: notwithstanding a number of persons in the same County were enjoying the benefit of the provisions of the former act, and some for the same service for which Mr. Smith now claims, to wit in the Maryland line.
	Mr. Smith has made five distinct declarations, which are now upon the files of this Office.
	In May 1834, he states, that having been made a prisoner in [illegible] army, he soon after enlisted in the American army late in 1777 under Capt. Shaw; in a regt. commanded by Col. Baron DeKalb: was in the battle of Monmouth, Camden, Guilford, Eutaw Springs, and was disch'd in S.C. by Gen. Green, having served 4½ years.
	In April 1835, he states that he enlisted for 9 mos. under Capt. Sutton in Col [illegible] regt; that in June 1779 he reenlisted for the war: and in 178[illegible] to the South in Capt. Shaws company; and was some time in Cap Davis' Co. was under General Smallwood & Col Howard, and remained in the [illegible] until Dec 1782 the evacuation of [. . .]
Page 40

[…] Charleston and then returned to N.C. and has resided in Chatham Co. since that period.
	In Sept. 1835, he states, that he was enlisted by one Sutton; was commanded by Capt. Davis; afterwards Capt. Shaw; remained in Gen. Washingtons army until the Spring of 1780, and then enlisted for the War, was then under Davis or Capt. Gunby & Howard Colonels: was in the 1st Maryland Regt: that after the battle of Eutaw Springs (1781) was marched into Charleston & discharged in the spring following (1782).
	In Dec 1835, he states, that he enlisted under Davis, who was the “listing master.” That Davis soon left the Camp (Valley Forge)— was employed 2 years as drill sergeant: was in Col. [illegible] regiment in 1778: was discharged in 1779 & again enlisted under one Sutton for two years. Sutton left them at Petersburg: never saw him afterwards. Was then in Capt. Dobsons Co., Col. Howards Regt: was under this officer at Battle of Camden & Cowpens, and was after the battle of Cowpens under Capt. Anderson & Col. Williams: was discharged in 1782.
	In March 1836, he says, that he enlisted in 1777 under Capt. Davis for 2 years: does not remember the Colonels name: was in the Maryland line: disch'd [illegible] 1779, and again enlisted under Capt. Dobson; thinks the Col's name was Stewart; was disch'd in Spring 1782, having served 4 years.
	Jn Hughs and Jn Boudy both testify that Smith belonged to the Maryland line; the latter saw him at the South in the fall of 1781. [illegible] Wood saw him enlist in 1777 in […]
Page 41

[…] the Maryland line; has known him over nine.
	Jn Boudy has made four affidavits since 1834; In 82 & [crossed out: 83] he says he first saw Smith as a soldier at the evacuation of Charleston: First remembers of seeing Smith at the O. S.C. [illegible] he states, that he saw Smith enlist to go to the South in 1780 in the Maryland line under Col. Howard; thinks he was discharged in Spring 1782: That Smith joined Washington army at Valley Forge, but does not remember him at the time he first enlisted in 1777; saw him a year or two after.
	In Jany last, Mr. Boudy states that he saw Smith enlist in fall 1777 at Valley Forge for 2 years, in Col. Fords Reg’t: yet acquainted [illegible] three: Smith marched [illegible] & did not see him until the Spring of 1782: He was then in Howards Regt. Smith was at this time disch'd but he [illegible] continued in the [illegible]: Never saw him again until 1806; has had [illegible]. Recollects that Smith came to Valley Forge an enlisted soldier for 2 years in the Maryland Reg’t. after his term had expired, Saw him enlist again for 2 years. Saw him afterward at the South, knew that he was the same man that he had seen for four years in the army at Valley Forge. Smith was disch'd. at Bacon Bridge: saw the discharge & heard it read. Smith continued in the army afterwards as a brazier for some time.
	The foregoing statements of William Smith & Jno Boudy are [illegible] contradictory and far from affording [...]
Page 42

[…] any satisfactory proof in support of Mr. Smith’s claim.
	It will be recollected that in the first declaration, he said nothing of belonging to the Maryland line: in the 2nd declaration, he states that [illegible] was his first Col: and afterwards Howard.
	The Depart. having informed him that neither Davis, Sutton or Shaw belonged to [illegible] Maryland line he In March 1836. he alleges that Dobson was his captain. Upon a further examination of the army registers of the Maryland line, it appears that Capt. Dobson belonged to the 6th Reg’t, and that in that reg’t there was two soldiers by the name of Wm Smith. Mr. first was in Dobsons Co.; enlisted July 1777, which the applicant was in the British army. and the Mr. enlisted in Capt. Morris Co. and deserted 10 Augt 1780.
	From all the facts which have been made to appear, and the conflicting statements of the claimant & the witnesses, no other references can be had in the case, than that of William Smith did in fact enlist at the Md. line, that he belonged to Capt. Morris Co., and that he left it without permission as stated above. The claim cannot therefore be allowed.

I have the honor

Hon L. Williams
HR
Page 43

George Luther
March 6th, 1843.
Page 44

129

										Pension Office
										March 6th
[crossed out: Jany 21] 1843

Sir,
	In answer to the enquiry contained in your letter of the 17th of November last I have to state that the claim of William Smith of Orange Co., Alabama was presented and rejected in the year 1837. The reasons for the rejection are fully stated in a letter addressed to the Hon. L. Williams under date of Jany 8th 1838 of which the enclosed is a copy. You will observe that so far as this department is concerned the action has been final.

[illegible]
Act 7th June 1832
				
George Luther Esq.             
Martha’s Vineyard
N. Carolina
Page 45

Martha’s  Vineyard N.C.     
14 [illegible] 1842 
Free           
                                                               
Honorable James L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Washington City

[written vertically]:
Dec 21 1842
NC
William Smith
Page 46

Martha’s Vineyard Chatham County NC 17th November 1842

Sir,
	I am requested to enquire at the War Department something about the claim of William Smith of Orange County NC I understand this claim was presented to the Department some years ago and has not been heard from since - I know nothing of the matter Smith I understand is now dead and the only representative he left resides in this county, who informs me that Smith never got any thing and that the govt refuses to give him any information or satisfaction on the subject
	I will also esteem it a great favour if you will send me a new supply of the Blank forms of Declarations and Instructions with the latest regulations of the Department—I have applications to investigate and prepare claims and those forms that the Department kindly furnished me with I have loaned till they are [illegible].

I am with high consideration
Your obt Servt
Geo Luther

Hon 
James L. Edwards
Commissioner of pensions
Page 47

State of North Carolina
Orange County } SS.

This day personally appeared before the undersigned an acting Justice of the peace for the County of Orange, Henry Ringstaff, a resident of Orange County now in the year of his age, who being first duly qualified according to law, doth on his oath make the following statement: that some time in the fall of 1777, he was a Soldier in the United States service, stationed on the North River of Fish Kill above the City of New York, and that whilst there William Smith of Chatham County now an applicant for a pension, was brought to our post as a prisoner to the American army, and whilst there I remember perfectly well of his enlisting in the American Service with a number of other British prisoners. And that when Smith enlisted he thinks it was under Captain Sutton and for nine months—and that said Smith was marched to Head Quarters to Genl. Washington. And this affiant saw said Smith afterwards in the Army and thinks it was at [illegible]—and that Smith was then as he told him enlisted for the war, and has always understood said Smith was in the Southern Army under Gen'l Gates and Gen'l Greene, and that he served to the close of the war or thereabouts. And this affiant in conclusion says that he has always understood that said Smith after he enlisted in the United States, served faithfully [illegible] the close of the war or thereabouts & was regularly discharged by Genl. Greene:- 

Sworn and subscribed this the 26th day May 1835 of May AD 1835 before me,          
Henry Renstaff
his mark
Saml. N. Tate J. P.								

And I the said Justice do hereby certify that Henry Ringstaff who has this day subscribed & sworn to the above affidavit is a man of truth & veracity.

Saml. N. Tate J. P.
Page 48

State of North Carolina
	I John Taylor Clerk of Orange County Court of pleas & quarter Sessions Certify that Samuel N. Tate Esqr. who witnessed the within affidavit & signed the written certificate was at that time a duly qualified Justice of the Peace
Witness my hand & Seal of office 27th May 1833
						J. Taylor JJC
Page 49

Haw River N.C.
June 19 1836

Hon:
	James L. Edwards
		War Department,
		Pension Office
		Washington City

[written vertically on left side]:
Wm Smith June 21
N.C.

[top right, written diagonally]:
free
Page 50

Haw River. NC. 15th June 1836.

[illegible] for:

I received a letter from Hon. William Montgomery a few days
since enclosing one from you touching the application of William
Smith for a pension. The Original Declaration of the old man was
forwarded to the pension Department as early as the spring of 1835. some
time during the last fall I rec'd. a communication from the pension office
stating that the evidence was not as full and satisfactory as the rules
of the Department required, wherefore Mr. Smith made a new declaration setting forth his services in a more explicit manner-- This amended
Declaration was sent on some time I think in last January, but it
was still deemed unsatisfactory. And it is to this Declaration I
think that you refer in the information you imparted " 22 day of March
last". In regard to the Declaration Mr. Smith forwarded you last winter
Porter Montgomery our representative. with me some time afterwards where
proof was further required to a favorable decision on the Case.
About the middle of last February, the applicant procured the affidavit of John Hughes (of Reedy Fork, Orange) who made oath "that
in the spring of 1780, he remembered of one William Smith
"(an Englishman, enlisting in the United States Service at Morris [illegible],
(I think was place) and marched to South under Baron DeKalb,
"being attached to one of the Maryland Regiments &c"

John Boudy a Pensioner under the act May 1828, made affidavit as follows [illegible], "that he was a soldier of the Continental
" line Maryland Regiment in the war of the Revolution, and in the
" fall or winter of 1781, was sent out to the South as reinforcement to
" Genl. Green's army, and when at Bacon's bridge the next year [illegible]
" William Smith now an applicant for a pension then as private in
" the Maryland Troops" and I think he stated in Col. Howards Regiment
" that he is now well acquainted with Smith and recognises him to be the 
" same man that he saw in the Maryland line as above statesd"
the Magistrate before whom the affidavits were made certified that
that John Hughes and J. Boudy were both men of truth & Veracity.
this is the evidence old W. Smith last procured and it was provided
to you, this the Hon. W. Montgomery-- this evidence was mailed in Hillsboro March 18 and your letter is dated the 22-- Is it not the
evidence that was forwarded to you antecedent to the 18th [illegible] that you
refer to? I do not think it probable that the evidence could leave Hillsboro friday afternoon 18 [illegible] and [illegible] you in time for action upon
it in four days? However of this you can satisfy yourself as John [...]
Page 51

[...] John Hughes' affidavit was not had till the last evidence was sent
on- Old Mr Hughes (who is now dead) testifies that he remembered
in 1780, while at Morristown a William Smith (an Englishman) who
enlisted the U.S. Service under DeKalb and was marched to the South
that Spring-- This is the old mans proof that he enlisted in the Spring of
1780 as he set forth in his Original Declaration-- John Boudy proves
that he saw Smith in Green's army 1782. that he now is acquainted with
him & can satisfactorily recognise him as the same William Smith
he saw in the Southern army, from what Dr. Montgomery [illegible] [illegible]
I am apprehensive this last proof of the old man's has never reached
you- in your last letter you say you forwarded me information
that further proof was needed under date 22 March last- the amended
Declaration was forwarded this Dr. M. - Could it in four days
have reached our representative, been handed to your department and
finally acted on in four days? I am under the impression you have reference to the evidence forwarded in the winter and probably not to that sent
you on the 18th March-- If Hughes' affidavit accompanies the Declaration
in question & J. Boudy's it is the last-
I enclose your letter on Smith's case, that you may see the dates and
not be under the necessity of making a new  search.
As to old Mr. Charles Whitmore's case my impression is it was the Christmas after Bowers was discharged as an Invalid that he was in Norfolk
and saw Mr Whitmore in the service. Mr. Whitmore probably gave the wrong
year, I recollect distinctly of Bowers that he was on the Invalid [illegible]
or perhaps on 'furlough' when he was at Norfolk. He had been
wounded he said in Virginia the spring before he went to Norfolk-
Old Mr. Jeffreys stated he had been in the Service & I think had got
home before Whitmore was at Norfolk, I remember the parties
had some conversation about the year, and being both illiterate
it is possible they have the wrong date-- Had Mr Bowers been asked on what
Spring was it in which he was wounded, (where the armies were?)
its probable they could have arrived at the correct year-- Bowers I know
said he went to Norfolk the Christmas after he was wounded, some
where near Richmond in Va. and he said Mr Whitmore in the Service
that winter-- John Jeffreys I am under the impression said he
lived near Whitmore & remembers of his returning it was always
understood from Norfolk where he had been on tour of duty in the
Service -
James L. Edwards Esqr
Pension Office
War Depart.
I have the honor
with much respect
your humble servt
James A Craig
Page 52

P.S.
Be so good as to return the enclosed letters: I said to lead them to the
parties for their satisfaction. I enclose them that you may not be at the trouble
of a re-search of your [illegible]: Book.
As soon as you examine this case please enclose the answer [illegible] [illegible]
this Post Office (Haw River, N.C.)

J A. Craig
Page 53

Affidavits
For William Smith
            &
Smith addl. Evidence
Page 54

No 1
State of North Carolina
Orange County } S.S.
	This day personally appeared John Bowdy in the 74th year of his age, a resident citizen of Orange aforesaid, who being duly qualified according law, sayeth upon his oath that in the years of 1782–83 while in the southern army under Gen'l Green, remembers well of seeing William Smith of Chatham County in North Carolina aforesaid, that sd Smith was a regular soldier under Green, & remembers well of seeing him at Bacons Bridge & in Charlestown the winter following when that place was surrendered to Gen'l Wayne.
And this affiant further states upon his oath that the sd. William Smith he always understood was in the United States service, and served untill the close of the war.

Sworn and subscribed before me
this the 15th day April 1835
							
John Bowdy
his mark

attest A W A Wright J.P.

and I the sd. Justice do hereby certify that John Bowdy who has this day sworn to & subscribed the above affidavit is a man of truth & veracity.

A W A Wright J.P.

Thinking it [illegible] the proofs hitherto required in Mr Loreiths case have come to hand 'ere this, the usual [illegible] & seal have not been procured. Mr. Edwards last letter only asks Mr. S. to state more specifically his service in the War. Who his Col. was, what regiment he was attached to, which he has done as fully as memory now enables him.
Page 55

No 2
State of North Carolina
Orange County } S.S.
			On this the 17 day of May A.D. 1835, personally appeared before the undersigned an acting Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid, John Boudy, a resident citizen of Orange aforesaid and an United States pensioner, who being first duly qualified maketh oath that during the war of the Revolution he was a Soldier of the Maryland line and with Gen'l Greene at Round O, Ashley Hill, Bacon Bridge, & Charleston, and remembers of William Smith of Chatham County, now an applicant for a pension was with our troops; was a private and thinks he was of Col. Howard's Regiment—
	I first remember of seeing said Smith (as well as I now remember) was at Sander's near the Round 'O', and remembers of occasionally seeing said Smith till the surrender of Charleston to Gen'l Greene in Dec'r 1782, and always understood said Smith was of the Continental Line and a good Soldier, and served the United States faithfully till the war ended, or nearly thereto—

Sworn and subscribed this 17th day
of May A.D. 1835, before me					
Richard Thompson J.P.
John Boudy
his mark
								
And I the said Justice do hereby certify that John Boudy who has this day subscribed and sworn to the above affidavit is a man of truth and veracity.

Richard Thompson J.P.

Orange County, N.C.
17th day of May A.D. 1835
State of North Carolina

I John Taylor Clerk of Orange County do Certify that Richard Thompson Esq'r who witnessed the foregoing affidavit & signed the above Certificate was at that time a duly qualified Justice of the Peace.

Witness my hand & seal of office 26 May 1835
							J. Taylor Clk
Page 56

No 3
State of North Carolina
Orange County } SS.
			On this the 17th day of February 1836, personally appeared before the undersigned an acting Justice of peace in and for Orange aforesaid, John Hughes Sen'r of the aforesaid County about 81 years of age and an United States pensioner, who being duly qualified maketh oath that in the war of the revolution, he was a private in the United States service in the Maryland Line, and remembers of William Smith Sen'r. (an Englishman) being private in the Maryland Line, was with us at Valley Forge under Washington, and remembers of said Smith being at the Battle of Monmouth Court House, and that he marched from the Jersey's under DeKalb to the South, and that I did not see Smith after that period; that he remembers of said Smith Senr. was reputed a good Soldier, and served the United States faithfully, as I have ever understood.—

John Hughes Sen'r
his mark

Sworn and subscribed the day and date first above written                
									
Michael Strader J.P.

And I the said Justice do hereby certify that John Hughes Sen'r who has this day subscribed and sworn to the above affidavit is a man of truth & veracity.
Michael Strader, J.P.
February 17th 1836							
Orange County

State of North Carolina
Orange County } SS.
	On this the 7th day of March 1836, personally appeared before me the undersigned an acting Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid John Boudy, a resident citizen of Orange aforesaid, now in the 79 year of his age, who being first duly qualified maketh oath that in the war of the revolution he was a private in the Maryland line and was at Morristown in the Jerseys in the spring of 1780, remembers that William Smith Senior (now of Chatham County) enlisted as one of the troops for the South, and as such some […]
Page 57

[...] time that spring marched off Southward under General DeKalb,
I did not see said Smith any more, till I joined Green's army, and
distinctly recollect that said William Smith Senr. was there at Bacon's Bridge and
of the Maryland line under Howard (I think my impression is at
this place his two years expired & he was discharged-
said Smith, Says he Joined Washington's army at Valley Forge
after Burgoynes defeat I do not remember of him or that place
but do recollect of him near Monmouth Courthouse a year
or two afterwards;-- as a private in the United States service-
Sworn and subscribed the Seventh
day & date first above written before me
Richard Thompson J.P.
John Boudy
his mark

And I the said Justice do hereby certify that John Boudy who has
Sworn to & subscribed the above affidavit is a man of truth &
veracity
Richard Thompson J.P.

State of North Carolina
I John Taylor, Clerk of the Court of pleas
and quarter Sessions for Orange County, hereby certify that
Michael Strader and Richard Thompson are magistrates as
above, that the foregoing signatures purporting to be theirs
are genuine.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed
my seal of office & Subscribed my name
this 16th day of March, in the year 1836
J. Taylor Clk
Page 58

State of North Carolina
Chatham County ⎬S.S.
I William Lindley Justice of the peace in
and for Chatham aforesaid do hereby certify that William Smith who
has this day appeared before me and qualified to the above foregoing supplementary evidence to his Declaration for pension is a man of truth &
veracity.

And I do further certify that that I have been acquainted with [illegible]
William Smith twenty five or thirty years and that he has resided in
this County & has the repution of serving in the Revolutionary war as
he states.

April 9th 1835
Mr Lindley J. P.

No 2

State of North Carolina
Chatham County S.S.

this day Henry Gilder personally appeared before me William
Lindley as one of the Justices of the peace for said County, and
made oath in due form that he has for 10 or 12 years been acquainted with William Smith of this County, now an applicant for a pension, that he has the reputation of being a
Revolutionary soldier a man of truth & veracity and of the
age he represents himself to be

9th April 1835
Henry Gilder
Wm Lindley J.P.

And I the said Justice do hereby certify that Henry Gilder who has
Sworn and subscribed the above affidavit is a man of truth & veracity
Mr Lindley JP

State of North Carolina
Chatham County ⎬S.S.
On this the 9 day of April 1835 personally before the undersigned
an acting Justice of the peace for Chatham aforesaid Horace D.
Bridges (Shff. of the County aforesaid) who being first duly [...]
Page 59

[...] duly qualified maketh oath, that for fifteen years he has been acquainted
William Smith a resident of the aforesaid County (now an applicant for
a pension) that he has always understood said Smith was in the United States
Service in the war of the revolution, is a man of truth and
veracity, and believed to have served in the war of the Revolution
as he states.

Sworn and subscribed the day &
date aforesaid before me
Wesley Hanks J.P.
H.D. Bridges

And I the said Justice do hereby certify that Horace D Bridges who
has this day sworn to and subscribed the above affidavit is Sheriff of
the County aforesaid & a man of truth & veracity.

9 April 1835.
Pittsboro [illegible]
William [illegible] J.P

State of North Carolina
Chatham County 
I Thomas Ragland, Clerk of the Court
of pleas and quarter Sessions for the County of Chatham aforesaid
certify that William Lindley and Wesley Hanks are magistrates
as above, and the foregoing signatures purporting to be theirs are
genuine.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed my
seal of office, and subscribed my name this the
10th day of April AD 1835.

Thos. Ragland C.C.C.
Page 60

William Smiths-
Further Evidence to his Declaration for a pension under the
Act of Congress 7th day June 1832.
State of North Carolina
Chatham County
S.S.
On this the 15th day of December 1835,
William Smith a resident citizen of Chatham aforesaid,
(now about 80 years of age) this day personally appeared before
me a Justice of the peace for Chatham County
and after being duly sworn according to Law, maketh the following
statement in further proof and explanation to his original Declaration for a pension, now on file in the war Department
Pension office - Videlicet
While he was a prisoner to the American arms at the Fish kills
in New York, in the fall of 1777, he (with many other prisoners)
enlisted in the United States service, under an enlisting master
named, Captain - Davis (he thinks) under whom he was marched
to General Washington's head quarters then at Vally Forge. That
Davis was only an Enlisting master, and left the compt soon after
he delivered his recruit there. That for some time after enlisting
which he thinks was now for Two years, he was employed mostly
as 'drill Sergeant' which he did not hitherto deem necessary to
mention, whose regiment this winter he was in he does not now
remember, but when in the Jersey next summer was in Col.
Wesson's regiment, and was in the battle at Monmouth Court
House in Wesson's Regiment, remained with Washington's army 'till
the period for which he enlisted had expired - & was duly discharged-
In the month of April 1780 he thinks it was, he enlisted
under one Sutton he thinks (an enlisting master) for the term of
Two years. Joined the the forces under Genl DeKalb,
near Morristown in New Jersey- that Sutton went with the army
as well as he now remembers to Petersburg Va or Hillsboro' and has no recollection
of seeing him afterwards, and is under the impression that Sutton's
health was bad and he returned home to Elist [...]
Page 61

[...] That when at Deep River, they were [illegible] preparatory to marching
to the South. that he was in the 1st (he thinks) Maryland regiment. that
Gunby was Colonel Commandant & Howard Lieutenant Col. and
Dobson was his Captain - that he was under these officers at the
battle of Camden that summer - That he continued with them in
their retreat to Charlotte. From Hillsborough, the fall following
was one of the detached troops sent under General Morgan
first to yadkin river then to [illegible] was in the battle at
the Cowpens. Dobson was Capt Howard Colonel. In guarding the
prisoners & Conveying them to Guilford County, thinks
he was under command of one Captain Anderson, when at
Guilford was put under Colonel Williams who had now the command of the 'covering party,' to the main army in their retreat to
Virginia - Some time in the next month, the light guard was discharged and I again fell under Col. Howard of Maryland & Gunby-
was under them at the Guilford battle - remained under Genl Greene,
'till at Bacons Bridge in April following, when his time of enlistment
had expired - Howard Hill my Col: from whom I got my discharge & it
was signed also by Greene- One of his former Captains Anderson
was killed before this Deponent left the service, and
thinks it was at Eutaws-
That the first term of his enlistment he served as Drill Sergeant, and it
may be that previous to April 1780, he is on the rolls as William
Smith drill Sergeant- In fact he acted part of the time in that
Capacity in the winter after they left Hillsboro'-
This deponent further says that he has proved previous to this, that he was
in the United States Service of Fish kill in the fall of 1777 and again
at Bacon's Bridge in the Spring of 1782, both of which depositions
are forwarded to the Pension Office, War Department to accompany his
original Declaration for pension.
The reason why he did not apply for a pension earlier than he has was
because he was foreigner, and in the early period of the war, fought against the
Liberty of the Country, and until a year or two past was able to
get a support by his labour- but now being too infirm to get [...]
Page 62

[...] a subsistence, and being exceedingly poor, and without any relations
that he knows of this County. He is admonished by his infirmities
to make declaration for pension-
[crossed out: [illegible] in the year of 1755.]
That he come to this County with the Hessian Troops and was under
Genl Heister at Flat Bush - thence to Quebeck and afterwards
was under Genl Burgoine and with Burgoine was made prisoner
at Still water near the Hudson in New York-
That he enlisted in the United States Service at Fish kill, soon time after
he was made prisoner - that one Davis (he thinks) enlisted [illegible]
that his Capt name he cannot remember, but thinks it was Shaw-
Wisson was his Col: all under General Washington. that in this
Two years, he knew Genl Greene, Genl Lee, Genl Wayne, Col. Stewart, Lafayette & others-
That the second time he enlisted, he was under command (at first) of
Genl DeKalb, Gunby, Col. John Howard Lieutenant Col. - Dobson
Captain- & part of this last two years was under Captain Anderson,
that his superior officers (after deKalb) were, Genl Gates.- Smallwood, Morgan, Genl Greene, His Colonels, Wisson, Gunby, Lieut
Howard & Col. Williams - His Captains Commandants. Shaw (under
Wisson) afterwards, when in the Maryland line Dobson and
Anderson - and he thinks he was when on detached service under
others, but from the [illegible] lapse of time cannot now narrate
more particularly, than he has the names of all his Captains-
Sworn and subscribed the day & year
first above written before me,
Wm. Lindley J.P.
William Smith
his mark
And I the said Justice do hereby certify that William Smith, who has
this day appeared before me signed & qualified to the above affidavit, is a
man of truth & veracity & believed in the neighborhood where he resides
to have served in the war of the revolution as he sets forth.
Wm Lindley J.P.
Page 63

State of N. Carolina
Chatham County
I, Thomas Ragland Clerk of the court of
pleas & quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid do
hereby certify that Wm Lindley, before whom the annexed
declaration was proven was at that time an acting Justice
of the Peace for the County of Chatham
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my name
under the seal of office for said County at
Hillsborough, the 29th day of December, A.D. 1835.
Tho Ragland C.C.C.

Wiliam Smith
Wm. Smith [illegible] Regt Blanchard
[illegible] 14 May 77 war. way
[illegible] of Jany 1 1780

Hon Montgomery 
HR
Page 64

Supplemental
Additional proof to the Declaration of William Smith of Chatham
County, North Carolina for a pension: made this 1s day of September 1835.
(Act May 15th 1828.)
That he was made prisoner to the American arms at the battle of Still water
in the fall of the year 1777, that after being made prisoner he was sent
down the Hudson to Fish Kill (an American post) that after remaining in there
a short time he enlisted in the United States Service. One Sutton he thinks was
the enlisting master and the Co. he was first attached to, was commanded by
Capt Davis, was also commanded by Capt Shaw Subsequently, was [illegible]
[illegible] to head quarters which was at Valley Forge, and remained under
command of Genl Washington. In the Summer of the next year was in
Col. Wesson's Regiment and was under him at the Battle of Monmouth.
his regiment was was partly of Delaware & Maryland troops - he thinks
his regiment was called the Ninth - remained with Washington till the
Spring of 1780, when he enlisted for the war & was placed under Baron DeKalb & was sent
on to the South - Davis was then his Capt he thinks, Howard was Col: - we were
under DeKalb till Genl Gates. overtook us as at Deep river in N. C. and assumed
the command - was in the Gates [illegible]- [illegible] at Hillsboro'- was
then ordered by Greene (still under Morgan & Howard) to the South
was under Howard in the battle of the Cowpens- was in the Guilford
battle under Col. Gunby & Howard. When Morgan left us Col. Williams
took his command. was at the Battle of the Eutaws under Howard
who shall commanded our Regt & thinks it was now the 1st Maryland.
after this engagement I was marched to the Round "O" Still under the
same officers, next went to Jacksonboro' - then Bacon Bridge- then
Ashley Hill, I was in no other general engagement after the Eutaws
- after we marched into Charleston, rumor of peace soon reached us
- and in the April following I got a discharge from Col. Howard.
(he thinks & Greene also signed it) drew three days provisions and with
others set out for Hillsboro' N.C. and in Orange County & this County
(Chatham) has been living ever since. and this is a minute account
as he can now under- & that from old age & loss of memory he cannot
give on oath a more minute account of his services-
Sworn & subscribed the day & date first above written before me
Wm. Lindley JP
William Smith
his mark
Page 65

And I the said Justice do hereby certify that William Smith who has this
day Sworn & subscribed to the foregoing affidavit is a man of truth and veracity.
1st September 1835
Wm Lindley JP

State of N Carolina
Chatham County
I Thomas Ragland Clerk of the Court of
please & Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid do hereby
certify that Wm Lindley before whom the foregoing Declaration 
was proven, was at the time of witnessing the same an acting
Justice of the Peace for the County of Chatham.-
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand
under the seal of office for said County at Pittsborough
the 4th day of September, A.D. 1835.
Thos. Ragland C.C.C.
Page 66

Additional proof No 4
To the declaration of William Smith for a pension.
Act June 7th 1832.
State of North Carolina
Orange County 
SS
On this the 11th day of January A.D. 1837,
personally appeared before the undersigned, an acting Justice of the peace,
in and for the County aforesaid, John Boudy, a resident of Orange aforesaid, about 81 years of age, and an United States pensioner, who being
first duly qualified according to law, maketh on oath, the following statement, to wit:
That in the war of the Revolution he was a private in the Maryland
Line, and remembers that William Smith (formerly of Chatham County since of Orange County
in the State aforesaid) enlisted in the United States Service, some time
in the fall of 1777, and joined the American Army at Valley Forge
and remained I think for two years as private, in the Maryland Line- after
his first period of Enlistment had expired, Said William Smith
(Englishman) enlisted a second time at Morristown in New Jersey
in the Spring of 1780, for Two years; he was attached this
affiant thinks, to the Second Maryland Regiment, and under Col. Ford
(he thinks) and were all placed under Genl DeKalb and marched
to the South - I got acquainted with said William Smith (Englishman) at Valley Forge encampment, and it was so understood at
the time. That said Smith was made prisoner by Genl Gates, and
had subsequently enlisted in the American Service and joined the
Army at Valley Forge. Smith, to be distinguished from other
soldiers of the same name, was called 'British,' and 'English Billy'
Smith-
After his enlistment at Morristown, as above stated, he was with
other troops marched to Join the Southern army, and this affiant
did not see said William Smith anymore 'till after the
Surrender of Lord Cornwallis, when the said affiant with other
troops was marched to the South to join Genl Green's Army; &
when at Beach Hill, near Bacon's Bridge, South Carolina (which was in the
Spring after Cornwallis was taken;) at that encampment this
affiant remembers of seeing said William Smith (Englishman) [...]
Page 67

[...] at said encampment and by the said William Smith (Englishman)
was then under Col. Howard and had been under Howard since the
loss of their Col. Ford as Smith informed here- at this encampment, Beach Hill, near to
Bacon's Bridge, Spring of 1782, William Smith (Englishman) two years
enlistment expired, and he was discharged- this affiant saw Smith
have his discharge from the Army, at said encampment in South Carolina-
this Declarant continued with the army to the close of the war-- and
came to Orange in North Carolina, in 1804 or 1805.-- and after
living in this County a few years, he saw William Smith Esqr
for the first time since Smith left the army. he recollected
him will, and has lived not very distant from him ever since his
Settlement in Orange, and knows well that the said William Smith
an applicant for a pension is the [illegible] Wm
Smith (Englishman) who was a private in the Maryland Line in the
War of the Revolution
said William Smith 'Englishman', after he joined the American
cause in 1777 was a good soldier and served the United States
faithfully- as this affiant has always understood & believes.
Sworn and subscribed before me,
this the 11th January A.D. 1837.
Richard Thompson J.P
John Boudy
his mark
And I the said Justice do hereby certify, that the above affiant
John Boudy, is a man of truth & veracity
Richard Thompson J. P.
State of North Carolina,
I John Taylor Clerk of the Court of pleas
and quarter Sessions for Orange County Certify that Richard
Thompson is a magistrate as above, and that the foregoing
Signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of office, & subscribed my name, this the 19th January 1837.
J.. Taylor Cl
Page 68

Hon. W Montgomery
HR
Page 69

The amended Declaration of William Smith, Senior, for
Pension under act 7th June 1832.
State of North Carolina
Orange County
S.S.
On this the 7th day of March A.D. 1836, William Smith Sen. a resident
citizen of the aforesaid County this day personally appeared before me (being
too infirm to attend Court) and after being first duly qualified maketh
on oath the following statement (272)
"That he was born in Great Brittain, some time in the year of
1755, as he has always understood, and that in the early period of the Revolutionary War, he came to the United States as a private in the British Service,
was with the enemy at Flatbush under General Hester was subsequently
sent to Canada and then fell under Genl. Burgoyne's command, and continued
with him 'till he surrendered to Genl. Gates at at Saratoga thence with
many other prisoners were marched to the American post at 'Fish Kill' on the
North River-"
And this Declarant makes the following statement "Supplemental" to his Declaration for pension, in order that he may obtain the benefit of the act of Congress, passed June the 7th 1832.
That he enlisted in the American Service, about the latter part of
November or 1st of December, after Burgoyne's Surrender, that the name of the
Captain under whom he enlisted was - Davis he thinks-- many other prisoners
at this place ('Fish kill') also enlisted and were marched under said Davis to
Washington's encampment, which was then at 'Valley Forge'. The length for which
he enlisted was two years, as well as he now remembers, but the Col. of his
regiment he cannot now remember but thinks it was a Maryland Regiment he was in
Remained under command of Genl. Washington, and was in the Battle of
Monmouth Court House, remembers of Col. Stewart that day and of
Col. Wesson, Genl. Greene, Genl. Wayne & others. remembers that when
the American army retreated that day, Washington ordered the regiment he was in
and another to check the advance of the British Army, that they did so [illegible]
the main body of the American army reached the troops that were engaged by Washington's orders. From Monmouth Court House, we marched
to White Plains - and encamped this winter at Middle Brook -
and was at Morristown in the Jersey's when his term of two years [...]
Page 70

[...] and he received a discharge therefor- this Declarant deems it proper here to
State that during this two years enlistment he occasionally acted as 'Drill
Sergeant'-
This Declarant says he enlisted a second time in the United States Service
for Two years, on or about the 1 of April following to wit 1780. the object
of this enlistment was to raise troops for the Southern army under Genl Lincoln then at Charleston-- the regiment to which he was now attached was
the 1st (he thinks) Maryland Regiment. Gunby was Col. Commanded on
Howard Leut. Col.- that he enlisted at Morristown in the Jerseys, marched
to the Elke and took shipping at that place for Petersburg Va thence marched to Hillsboro, North Carolina, thence to Wilcox's Mills on Deep River-- Where Genl
Gates overtook us and assumed the command, was in the Battle near
Camden where Gates was defeated, and in the [illegible] from that battle
was accompanied by his Col. Capt Dobson & others, that they got a
small booty in the route or retreat (Wine) which officers and Soldiers
shared equally with each other. That the situated to Charlotte-- thence
to Hillsboro, where they under [illegible]-- at this latter place, he was
detached under Genl Morgan to Mecklenburgh & afterwards to South Carolina, and was under Col.
Howard at the Battle of the Cowpens. that they retreated to Salisbury or rather to Guilford C. H. That in this retreat, he remembers
of Captains Dobson & Anderson, the former he thinks was his Captain
At Guilford Court House, he was put under Col. Williams, who now
had command of the 'light troops' that were designed to check Lord
Cornwallis and cover the retreat of the main army into Virginia
that afterwards he was put under his former Col. Gunby and was under
him at the Battle of Guilford C.H. Continued with Genl.
Greene, was at Ramsey's Mills, Camden in South Carolina,
Ninety-six, In the battle at Eutaws, thence to High Hills of
Santee - at Round 'O', and Bacon's bridge. at this letter [illegible]
my term of Enlistment expired, and I got a discharge from Col.
Howard-- I remained with the army, in a private Capacity till
the next spring when I with some other soldiers, came to Hillsboro in Orange County, in which County & Chatham I have lived
ever since, the spring of 1783;-
The reason why he did not apply sooner for a pension was, he felt a
diffidence in so doing, in consequence of his having fought in the
ranks of the enemy in the early period of the war, and moreover was [...]
Page 71

[...] was enabled tell very recently to get his support by his labour-
but the infirmities of old age now admonish him, to present his claims
in common with other Revolutionary patriots- This Declarant says
he served the United States faithfully for at least Four years, in
the most arduous and perilous periods of the Revolutionary War.
And that he cannot give a more minute and detailed accounts
of his services than he has here given in the lapse of 54 years [illegible]
it is exceedingly difficult to narrate the events in which he took part
with that accuracy he could wish-- being entirely illiterate he cannot
procure the aid of reading, and has therefore to rely altogether
upon a memory much impaired by four score years.
That he was born in Great Britain, in the year 1755.
that he has no record of his age.
that he was at the 'Fish Kill' on the Hudson River when he enlisted
That when he entered the United States Service, he enlisted
that he knew Genl Washington, Putnam, Wayne, Lee, Greene, Howard, Smallwood, 
Wesson, Dekalb, Gunby, Howard, Ford.
Col. Williams, Gates, Caswell, Butler, Genl Pickens, Genl Eaton
Genl Stephens & others
That he he [illegible] a discharge for his first term of enlistment, but cannot
now remember who was his Col. but that it was either Wesson or
Stewart of the Maryland troops; and sums most inclined to think
that it was a Maryland Regiment he was in, and recollects of seeing
many of them in the [illegible] that come to Green's army at or before we were at Bacon's
bridge, with whom he had served in his first enlistment.
This Declarant trusts that as he enlisted in 1780 and served for Two years,
the proof thereof he can more easily procure and trusts that the incidence of this last two years service will be satisfactory to the War Department (independent of his first term of enlistment) making of itself
Two years Service.
That for his period of enlistment under Howard he rec'd. a discharge from
him at Bacon's Bridge, in April 1782-- But that both discharges have been
for many years lost, and thinks that they were destroyed when he had
his house burnt many years ago
that he is known in his neighbourhood to Horace D Bridges formerly Sheriff of Chatham County, Henry Golden & others
who can testify as to his character for veracity, and their belief
(their affidavits were forwarded with former Declaration) [...]
Page 72

of his services as a soldier of the Revolution.
This Declarant in conclusion says, that he has now become infirm and is in [illegible], & having no relations in America that he
knows of-
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or any
annuity, except the present, and declares that his name is not on the
pension Roll of the agency of any State.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Lest
Wm Lindley JP 
William Smith Snr
his mark
Mr Smith lives remote from Pittsboro, the Seat of Justice in
Chatham, and having sent a similar Declaration last fall, made
before the same magistrate, he has not deemed it indispensable
to get the Clerk's Certificate & seal this, the Hon. Abram
Rencher of the H. R. can testify if necessary that William
Lindley is a Justice of the peace-
Page 73

Supplemental evidence of the Revolutionary services of Wm
Smith a resident of Chatham County in North Carolina
State of North Carolina
Chatham County 
S.S.
On this the 9th day of April 1835 personally appeared before the undersigned
an acting Justice for the County of Chatham aforesaid. William Smith a
resident Citizen of the said County, who being first duly qualified according to
law doth upon his oath make the following supplemental evidence to his Declaration for pension (To wit):
That in early part of the Revolutionary war,
he came to the United States, a British Soldier in the [illegible] Troops Commanded
by Genl Heister, and was under his command at the engagement at Flat Bush
near New York. the precise time this Declarant does not remember - In the fall
following (he thinks it was) he with other troops was sent to Quebeck -- and
in the spring following was put under command of Genl Burgoine, went up
Lake Champlain- To the Town of Skeensboro', A short time afterwards
went to Fort Edwards- then across the North River, was in the battle of
Still water, where he with a number of other British Soldiers were made
prisoners by Genl Gates -
This Declarant says soon after being made
prisoner he with others was taken down the Hudson to the American Post at Fish Kill, where after staying a few weeks enlisted in the
American Service, for Nine months under a Captain Sutton-- a short
time after enlisting was marched to Valley Forge, then head quarter of the
American Army, he reached Valley Forge about a week or two before
Christmas and was put in the Regiment commanded he thinks, by Col.
Wisson- was with Wilson at the Battle of Monmouth, the June following-
after the expiration of the term of his enlistment & he again enlisted as well as
he remembers for the War. The winter following, they encamped
in the Jersey's near the Town of Middlebrook, and remained with Genl
Washington's army, till the Spring following, when at
Morristown (he thinks it was) he with the Maryland Troops was detached
to the south under DeKalb, Shaw he thinks was his Captain - went
to Petersburg in Va thence to Halifax, N. C. thence to Hillsboro' thence
To Buffalo ford on Deep River, where Gates, over took them and assumed the command-- Captain Davis, commanded part of the time [...]
Page 74

[...] from Deep River marched to the South, joined the North Carolina Militia at
Caswell's Camp- thence to Rugeley's mills, and a few days afterwards was in
the battle at Camden under Col. Howard - after the defeat was put under
Genl Smallwood and marched to Hillsboro' - when at that Town in the fall
following was put under Genl Morgan's command. still under my former
Col. and marched into South Carolina, and was at the Battle of Cowpens
and in Guilford was put under command of Genl Green. was in the battle
at the Guilford Court House, at Eutaws the fall following. in Col.
Howard's regiment - continued with my regiment under Genl Greene in
South Carolina - was at the Round O. Ashly Hill & Bacon Bridge -
thence marched to Charleston when that city was surrendered to our
army under Genl Wayne. In the spring following I rec'd. a discharge
from Col. Howard signed (by Greene he thinks) went from Charleston
to George Town and worked a while to get money to bear his expenses
to Hillsboro' in North Carolina-- After remaining in George Town a few weeks
I set out for Hillsboro' & fell in with John Roberts Jacob Jarvis- Turner and
others- [crossed out: and on the way fell in with John Roberts and went all the [illegible] to Hills]-
where after staying a short time moved
into Chatham County when he has resided ever since.-
That he was born in Buckingham in England (to the best of his information) in the year 1755. In the fall or winter of 1777, enlisted
in the American service - that he has now no record of his age.-
That he was a prisoner to the American army at Fish kill in New York,
where he enlisted - that since the Revolutionary war he lived in
in this (Chatham) County of Orange - and that he has been living in
Chatham about forty two years; that when he entered the United States
service he enlisted - that he knew Col Wesson, Dekalb
Genl Gates, Col. Williams, Col. Lytle, Genl Morgan, Col. Howard
Genl Butler, Eaton & others
That he received a discharge from the service. that it was signed
by his Col Howard & Genl Greene also he thinks - That his discharge was burnt
some years ago when he had the misfortune to lose his house by
fire.
Sworn and subscribed this the
9th day of April 1835. before me,
Wm. Lindley J. P.
William Smith
his mark
Page 75

Hon Lewis Williams
HR
Page 76

Supplemental
proof to the Declaration of Wm Smith, of Orange County
for a Pension Act 7 June 1837
State of North Carolina
Orange County
S.S
on this the 17th day of March, 1837 personally appeared before the undersigned an acting Justice of the peace in and
for the County aforesaid, Charles Wood, a resident of Orange aforesaid
now about 89 years of age, who being first duly qualified according to
law maketh oath that he is well acquainted with William Smith
of this County (formerly of Chatham) who has become an applicant
for pension. This affiant stateth upon his oath that in the winter of
1777, While at Head quarters at 'Valley Forge', he remembers very
well that William Smith above mentioned came to our army at
Valley Forge on Enlisted Soldier in the United States service, for Two
years this affiant thinks; and was in one of the Maryland regiments.
This affiant remembers of seeing said Smith at the Battle of
Monmouth Court House of the next summer after Smith Joined us-
Sd Smith informed me, and I have always so understood it-- had been
a British soldier and made prisoner to the American arms at the
Surrender of Burgoine-
after I came to Hillsboro at the close of the war. Said William Smith
saw frequently, he lived in this and Chatham Counties.
Smith, in the Army was sometimes called "British Billy Smith" in
consequence of his having come to this Country in the English service. Said William Smith, "British Billy," was a good soldier
in the United States Service for several years - and is [illegible]
of pension. I have been acquainted with him since I saw
[illegible] Smith at Valley Forge and know him to be the said Smith
that was in the service at Valley Forge & Monmouth Courthouse
and I repeat he was a good whig.
Sworn and subscribed before me this
the 17 day of March, 1837.
Saml. N Tate J.P
Charles Wood 
his mark
And I the said Justice do hereby certify that Charles Wood who has this
day sworn to and subscribed the above affidavit, is a man of
truth and veracity, and an United States pensioner under act of
18th March, 1818.
Saml. N Tate J.P
In 7 years from 76
Page 77

State of North Carolina
Orange County
No 5

On this 8th day of April 1837 personally appeared before me the
undersigned an acting Justice of the peace for the aforesaid County-
John Boudy about 80 years of age: who being first duly sworn
according to law maketh oath that in the war of the Revolution
he was a private in the Maryland line and having been called on
at different times to state what he recollected of the Revolutionary services
of William Smith formerly of Chatham. States that in the early part of
the to the said Smith came to this affiants house twice
and in conversing of the events of the Revolutionary war this affiant
had brought to his remembrance several incidents he had forgotten
at other times to State, viz, he recollects that when at Valley Forge
the [illegible] William Smith, who has applied for pension came to
head quarters an Enlisted soldier in the United States Service enlisted
I think for 2 years and was in one of the Maryland Regiments-
as there were other William Smiths in the army this was nicknamed, 
"British Billy Smith" who said he belonged to Bourgoines-
Army & had been made prisoner by Gates & served out, he
always understood his 2 years.
In the spring of the year we lay in Morristown. I have
said William Smith aforesaid, enlist. in the United States
service again for two years this deponent thinks and remembers of said Wm Smith ("British Billy") when he enlisted at
Morristown, he thinks in Col. Fords regiment, and that it went to the South
under DeKalb., When this Deponent in winter after the siege of
Little York was marched to the South to Join Genl Greene and soon after
Joining Greenes army. I remember of seeing said Smith at Beach hill
not far from Bacon bridge and knew him to be the Identical "British Billy"
whome I had seen join the service at Valley range and afterwards at Morristown
and who marched for Charleston under Genl DeKalb in the regiment under command of Col. Ford. But when I saw him under Greene he was under command
of Col. Howard and heard Smith say that his col. (Ford) had either died or
resigned. Smiths term of enlistment expired at Bacon Bridge. he got a
discharge there, I saw it, and heard it read- Smith remained with us same
length of time after his discharge, and served in the capacity of
a [illegible] good while never heard either in the war nor since the war
that said Smith even had been a deserter from the american cause
His being called "British Smith," may have prejudiced some against
him. I well know the Wm Smith who has applied for a pension
is the very same Smith that was in the service at Valley Forge [...]
Page 78

Morristown and in the South under Greene & knows that
he was discharged at Bacons Bridge saw the discharge and heard it
read. In 1806 I saw Smith the first time after he left us
in South Carolina, and Smith has lived near this deponent ever since-- Smith was a good soldier and served
the United States faithfully, as this Deponent believes in
Two Tours of enlistment.--
Sworn and subscribed the
day & date first above written before me
John R Holt J Peace
John Boudy
his mark

And I the said Justice do hereby certify that John Boudy
who has this day subscribed and sworn to the above
affidavit is a man of truth and veracity.
John R Holt J Peace

State of North Carolina
I John Taylor Clerk of [illegible] of County Court of pleas & quarter Sessions Certify that John R Holt
who signed the above certificate & Samuel N Tate
who signed the certificate on first page were duly
qualified Justices of the peace at the time of signing
the same.
[illegible] Johny Taylor Clerk of  said County
28th Apr 1837.
J. Taylor CC
Page 79

Supplemental proof
To William Smith's Declaration for Pension
Act 7th June, 1832.
State of North Carolina
Orange County
On this the 15th day of August 1837,
personally appeared before the undersigned an acting Justice of the peace
in and for the County aforesaid. Edith Bevan of said County aged
about 65 years, who being first duly qualified according to law maketh
oath that for upwards of forty years past she has been well acquainted with
William Smith of the aforesaid County (who has become an applicant for a pension, that said William Smith resided some years in
Chatham County. This deponent states that since her first acquaintance with said Wm Smith, She has understood from him that he was a
soldier in the United States service and was under Col. Howard &
Genl Greene, and has heard him also speak of being under Genl Washington. Has heard him say he was in several engagements while in the
United States Service: remembers of Smith saying he was at the battle of
Cowpens, Guilford Court House, & Eutaws. In the last engagement my deceased husband also was; but in the militia. I have heard
my husband in his lifetime and said Smith speak often of their
services in the war of the Revolution - that he said Smith was in the early
part of the war a British Soldier, but after being made prisoner
to the Americans, he enlisted in the service of this Country and as a private soldier served the United States some years and got a Discharge - This Deponent states that she has understood that said
William Smith has made application for pension and that he sets
forth that he had his house burnt many years ago, and amongst
other things his Discharge-- I was living near to said Smith at the
time he had the misfortune to lose his house by fire. This was some
Twenty years ago. I remember the fact very well. and it was understood
That amongst the papers said Smith lost, was his discharge from the American army.
said William Smith, from my first acquaintance with him (upwards of forty years) was understood to have served the United States
faithfully as a private soldier for some years, and I
think he uniformly said he was in the American service at
or nearly to the close of the war, when he was discharged from
the service and came to this County and Chatham, where he has been
living ever since my acquaintance with him- [...]
Page 80

[...] said William Smith was an honest and upright man and was
considered (as far as I ever understood) in the Neighbourhood where
he resided to have been a soldier in the United States Service
in the war of the Revolution as he states, and a man of truth.
Sworn and subscribed the day stated
first above written before me,
Wm Shaw J. Peace
Edith Bevan
her mark

And I the said Justice do hereby certify that Edith Bevan, who
hath sworn and subscribed to the foregoing certificate is a woman
of truth and veracity.
Wm Shaw J. Peace

State of North Carolina
Orange County
On this the 13th day of September 1837, personally appeared before
the undersigned an acting Justice of the peace in an for
the County aforesaid Thomas Bevan a citizen of the aforesaid County in the 50th year of his age, who being first duly
qualified according to law maketh oath that since his earliest
recollection he knew William Smith of Orange formerly of Chatham County, that as far back as forty years ago, he has heard said
Smith say he had a discharge from Genl Green's army for
Two years service, and was at Bacons bridge in South Carolina When he got his discharge from the army.
This affiant well remembers that upwards of twenty or twenty five
years ago said Smith had his house burnt and it was said
at the time that amongst other things burnt, was said Smith's discharge - this affiant also remembers of hearing William
Cumming (now of Guilford) say that he had both seen &
read Smith's discharge from the army-- and that he told
said Smith "to take care of his discharge for it might be of
Service some day to him"-
I never heard it disputed or denied but what said Smith
after he entered the United States Service did serve the
United States faithfully, for three or four years- the said Smith was always [illegible] a good friend to
the United States [...]
Page 81

[...] he was commonly known by the name of "British Billy Smith"
in consequence of his having come to the United States a
British soldier.
sworn to & subscribed the day &
date first above written before me
Jn Boon J.P.
Thomas Bevan
his mark
And I the said Justice do hereby certify that Thomas
Bevan who has subscribed & sworn to the above affidavit
is a man of truth & veracity
Jno Boon J. Peace

State of North Carolina 
I John Taylor Clerk Court of Orange County Court of pleas & quarter sessions do hereby certify
that John Boon who signed the foregoing
certificate and William Shaw who signed the
Certificate on the forgoing page were at the
time of signing the same duly qualified Justices
of the peace
Witness my hand & seal of our
28th [illegible] 1837
J. Taylor CC