Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 8499, Sherwood Fort, N.C.
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(3-1776)
SERVICE                                           NUMBER
N.C.            Fort, Sherwood             S. 8449
_________________________________________
Born in N.C.                                        Carded
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23.297
North Carolina
_______________
Sherwood Fort
of [Robeson] in the State of N. Car
who was a [Mri] :- in the -- command
by Captain             of the Regm command
by Col Eaton in the No Car
line for 17 months -
_____________________
Inscribed on the Roll of N. Carolina
at the rate of 62. Dollars and 33 Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March 1831.
________________________
Certificate of Pension issued the 24 day of Decr 33 and [illegible] on: J.J. McKay - O&R
____________________________
Arrears to the 4th of Sept 1833 Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Mar [illegible]
155.82
31.16
_______
$186.98
_________
{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.
Recorded by N.Rice -- Cler
Book E Vol. [67] Page 54
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Date of death not on AB
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State of North Carolina}
Cumberland County } S.S:
Be it remembered that at a Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County of Cumberland on the First Monday of September AD. 1832 Present the Worshipped Justices Duncan McRae, Richard Huckabee, and Duncan Buie, Esquires. -
At which time and place, personally appeared in Open Court Sherwood Fort, a resident of the County of Cumberland, State aforesaid, aged 73 years, who being first duly sworn according to Law, doth, on his Oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7 1832. -
That he entered the service of the United States under the following named Officers, and served as therein stated.- 
The Declarant states that he was born in Halifax County, North Carolina on the 19 September 1759. - The record of his birth was copied by him from a family Bible, about 40 years ago into another bible now in his possession, which he has ready to produce for the inspection of the Court - He first entered into the service of his Country in the Fall of 1775 and marched under Captain Michael Little to Long Bridge near Norfolk in Virginia, and was there present in the engagement against Lord Dunmore, that he went on this expendition as a volunteer, and served as a Drummer. He next in the year 1776 entered under Captain Henry Dawson on a tour of three months service in a Regiment commanded by Col Drury Gee, and Peter Dozier, under he whom he marched to Wilmington N.C. where he was stationed; he served at this time from the 12th May 1776 to the 12th August 1776. was in Wilmington on the 4th July when Independence was declared - and met there at that time, and served in company with the 7th North Carolina Regiment, commanded by Col. James Moore, in which Regiment Captain Griffith McRee commanded a Company - on his return he received his discharge from Major James Hogan,  when he got back to Halifax, on this occasion Gen Samuel Ashe commanded the Brigade to which he was attached.-
His next term of service, he entered as a Volunteer for a six months tour, but actually served seven before he was discharged. - He entered under Captain Thomas Scurlock who was Captain, in the Regiment commanded by Col. Thomas Eaton and Col Jesse Ethrington, and Joseph Clinch was Major. - He entered
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in Halifax 10th Sep. 1778. The Regiment renderouzed [sic] at Kingston, on Neuse River, and marched thence to Elizabeth in Bladen County where we were joined by Col. Philip Alston of Chatham County with his Regiment. Gen Samuel Ash commanded the Brigade.- From Elizabeth where we encamped about ten days, we marched into South Carolina to a place called Monks Corner, near Charleston.- thence to Augusta in Georgia, where we joined Gen Williamson, who commanded the South Carolina Regiment - Crossed the River at Augusta, and marched down on the other side of Savannah River, to Briar Creek, in Burke County, Georgia where an engagement took place with the British, in which we were defeated. - Col. Elbert commanded a Georgia Continental Regiment on this occasion, and fought bravely at the battle of Briar Creek, which was fought on the 3rd of March. - after the Battle we crossed into South Carolina and remained until the 10th April 1779, when this declarant was discharged. - In this tour he entered as a Drummer and when the Regiment rendevouzed [sic] at Kingston, he was appointed Drum Major of the Regiment, and received a Commission as such from Gen. Ashe -  in which character he served during this term of service into South Carolina, and Georgia, and was entitled as such to the Pay of a Captain - During this campaign he served with a Continental Regiment, commanded by Col. Litell under Gen Lincoln, whom they met with at Purinsburg South Carolina.-
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After his return home to Halifax, in the Fall 1780 he came out to Cape Fear, Bladen County, N.C. to a sister who was settled in that County. - There he furnished his own Horse, and equipments, and was enrolled as a Volunteer, in a troop of Horse commanded by Captain Peter Robinson, and forming part of the command of Col. Thomas Brown, Col. of the County, which was employed constantly, off, and on, for 18 months, in protecting the Country against the depredations of the Torys. - He was regularly enrolled, and liable to be called out, at a moments warning. - In this capacity he was in several engagements with the Torys.- On one accosion [sic] they routed a party of them from Drownery Creek who had just before, attacked, and plundered the stores of Col. Owen.- On another occasion we attacked, and surprised a large party of Torys, consisting of about 150 men, who were assembled at Elizabeth town, and entirely dispersed them. - After this he married and returned to Halifax, where he again enlisted as a volunteer in Captain Theophilus Thomas Company, and Col. Wm. Brittle, for a tour of duty.- Under whom he marched into Virginia, and arrived at Little York, the day after the surrender of Cornwallis.- He remained a short time there when he returned to North Carolina, where he finally disbanded. He received regular discharges, at the end of these respective tours of duty, who has lost the whole of them
Sherwood Fort
Sworn to & Subscribed in open Court
[illegible] D McDiarmid
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The Court then proceeded to put to the applicant the interrogatories contained in the Pointed Instructions from War Department, numbered one. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. & 7. respectively, to which the following answers were returned
1. In Halifax County NC. 19th Sept. 1759
2. In a [crossed out Bible] Testament now in my possession. and copied about 40 years ago from a Family Record, & which is now pronounced in Court for their inspection
3. In Halifax aforesaid, and have since lived, in the Counties of Halifax Bladen, and Roberon, and now live in Cumberland
4. Entered on every occasion as a Volunteer
5. Col. Moore, Captain Griffith McRee, of the North Carolina Continental Line - and others more particular set [faltn] in my Declaration
6. I did receive a discharge, from each term of service as set out in my declaration, say Major Hogan, && which are lost.
7. Jonathan Evan Esqe. Col. Blake, Sheriff Isham Blake, - and the Justice Holding the Court. Rev. John H Pearce
=
At the same time, and place personally appeared unto Court the Revd. John H. Pearce, a clergyman belonging to the Methodist Church, and who testify and say that they are acquainted with the applicant Sherwood Fort that he [partains] the character of a man of veracity, and that from their acquaintance, they believe he is of the age he represents himself - that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a revolutionary soldier - and that they concur in that opinion.-
John H Pearce
Isham Blake [Jr]
Sworn to & Subscribed in open Court
[illegible] D McDiamid
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June 14, 1934
XXXXXXXXXXXX
Mrs. Cornelia A. Norris
519 North Blount Street
Raleigh, North Carolina

BA/3/EEL
Sherwood Fort - S. 8499
Turner Fort - W. 7295

Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the records of Sherwood or Sherrod Fort and Turner Fort, who received pensions while residing in North Carollina for services in the Revolutionary War.
The data which follow were obtained from the papers on file in Revolutionary War pension claims, S.8499 and W.7295, based upon the military services in that war of Sherwood Fort and Turner Fort.
Sherwood Fort
S.8499
Sherwood Fort was born September 19, 1759, in Halifax County, North Carolina. The names of his parents are not shown in the papers in the pension claim. His mother was living in 1804.

While residing in Halifax County, North Carolina, Sherwood Fort enlisted and served with the North Carolina Troops, as follows: from October 2, 1775 to February 4, 1776, as drummer in Captain Michael Little's Company, marched to Virginia, and was in the battle of Great Bridge [noted in left margin This battle Dec 9, 1775]: From February 10, 1776 to March 12, 1776, as a drummer in Captain John Whitaker's Company, Colonel Nicholas Long's Regiment: [in right margin - found only Col Nicholas Long - in Heitman] from May 12, 1776 to August 20, 1776, as drummer in Captain Henry Dawson's Company under Colonels Drury Gee and Peter Dozier: from November 10, 1777 to December 20, 1777, as drummer in Captain Kidd's Company, Colonel John Whitaker's Regiment, and was stationed at Halifax, North Carolina, as one of the guard at the jail where some of Burgoyne's soldiers were confined as prisoners: from September 10, 1778, as drummer in Captain Thomas Sourlock's Company under Colonels Thomas Eaton and Jesse Ethingtom; was soon appointed drum major, was in the battle of Brier Creek, [in right margin- March 3, 1779] and was discharged April 30, 1779; In June 1779, he went to Bladen County, North Carolina, on the Cape Fear River, [ in right margin- this river runs thru Bladen Co] where his sister was living (name of sister not shown), enlisted there on June 10, 1779, and served at various times on short tours until February 12, 1781, as a private in Captain Peter Robeson's Company of Horse under Colonel Thomas Brown, who was a colonel of the county troops, and was engaged in
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protecting the inhabitants from the British and Tories with whom he was in three engagements, one at Raft Swamp, one at Elizabeth and one at Colonel Owen's plantation: entire length of this service at least twelve months: after the termination of this tour, Sherwood Fort returned to his home in Halifax County, North Carolina and served twenty-six days as a private in Captain Grissom Coffield's Company of Horse, Colonel John Whitaker's Regiment, marchedm to Guilford Court House but arrive two days after the battle at that place: from June 30, 1781, he served as drummer in Captain Theophilus Thomas' Company, Colonel William Brittle's Regiment, marched to Yorktown and arrived there the day after the surrender, remained a few days, then returned to Halifax County, North Carolina, and was discharged October 27, 1781. His entire service was rendered as a volunteer. 

After the Revolution, he resided in the counties of Halifax, Bladen, Robeson and Cumberland in the state of North Carolina.

He was allowed pension on his application executed September 3, 1832, while a resident of Cumberland County, North Carolina.

In 1804, soldier referred to his wife, but gave no particulars in regard to her and there is no reference to children.

In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, the name and address of person paid and possibly the date of death of the Revolutionary War pensioner, Sherwood Fort (S.8499) , you should address the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, this city, and cite the following data:

Sherwood Fort, Certificate No. 23297, issued December 24, 1833, rate $62.33 per annum, commenced March 4, 1831, Act of June 7, 1832, North Carolina Agency.

******
Turner Fort
W.7295
Turner Fort was born in March, 1763, in Southampton County, Virginia, and about 1767, moved with his parents to Sampson County, North Carolina. 

While residing in Sampson County, North Carolina, Turner Fort enlisted and served as a private with the North Carolina Troops, as follows:

-2-
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from about June 1, 1780 for three months in Captain David Dodd's Company of Cavalry and was in an engagement at "Brown Marsh" with the Tories: from about April 1, 1781, three months in Captain William Whitehead's Company, Colonel James Keenan's Regiment: from August, 1781, until about September 1, 1782 in Captain Joseph Rhodes' Company, Colonel Gilespie's Regiment and was stationed at Wilmington North Carolina.

After the Revolution, Turner Fort resided in Halifax County, North Carolina for ten or twelve years: then in Sampson County, North Carolina, and in 1807, in Anson County, North Carolina. 

He was allowed pension on his application executed October 12, 1832, while a resident of Anson County, North Carolina. 

He died March 29, 1850, place not shown. 

The soldier married in June, 1788, in Halifax County, North Carolina, Elizabeth Hopgood. They were married at the home of her father, whose name is not given. 

Soldier's widow, Elizabeth, was allowed pension on her application executed July 12, 1853, at which time she was aged eighty-seven years and resided in Anson County, North Carolina.

She died February 1, 1855, place not shown. 

The names of the following children of Turner and Elizabeth Fort are shown in the papers in the claim:
Alstun Fort  born April 17, 1789.
Penny Fort   "    September 14, 1791.
Henry T. Fort   "   August 31, 1793.
Elias Fort    "    April 11, 1795
Fanny Fort  "    December 11, 1799.
Nancy Fort  "   January 31, 1801.
John T. Fort "   June 11, 1803. 

There are no further family data. 

Very truly yours

A.D. HILLER
Assistant to the Administrator
-3-
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519 N. 10 Court St.
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JUN 7
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1934
N.C.
Mr A.D. Hi

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--------------
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[letter]
Sherwood Fort "or" Sherrod" Pensioner in Cumberland Co. NC. I wish his record, then "Turner Fort" -- both [send] date Revisions in the American Revolution Colonial Records, Vol 22 Page 65-
Thanking you, as I [illegible] " Sarah Fort"
Obliging
(Mrs) Cornelia A. Norris

My late husband initials "M.T.N"
[faint illegible stamp at bottom of document ]
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[same document as previous page 11 without torn overlay]
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1933 - Jan 25 - Hist. to Hon. - Josiah H. Bailey for Mrs. Lily Doyle Dunlap. [illegible]
Corres in James Redform $14934.
1934 - June 14 Hist to Mrs Cornelia T. Norris [illegible]
8499
INVALID.
------------
File No. 8499
Sherwood Fort
[illegible] Rev War
----------------
Act: June 7th 18[illegible]
Index:--Vol. 1st, Page 122
[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 14

State of North Carolina }
Cumberland County -}
Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions,
December Sessions AD, 1833

I Archibald McLean [Jr] Clerk of the Court Do hereby Certify that the annexed Record contains the Original proceedings in the matter of Sherwood Fort, as applicant for a Pension, - on submitting his amended Declaration, - and that Dolphin A Davis, Esek Arnold and Malcom McColman, are the Justices duly commysioned [sic], and holding the Court, and that the signatures and seals hereunto annexed are in the proper hand [marking] of the said Justices.-

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office at Fayetteville this 6th day of December AD. 1833
A McLean Jr. Clk
Page 15

[left margin]
Appertaining to the case of Sherwood Fort -
No Ca.
J.L. Edwards Esquire
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Washington City
[what follows is above previous and very faint]
1775 4 - drummer
1780 4
1776 3 -
1778 6 - Drum Major Capt
1780  12
1778 - 4 Dr
1776 1 2/3
3 Dr
1777  3  Dr
1778  6 Dr Capt
1779 - 12
3
1781 - 4
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[left margin]
Appertaining to the case of Sherwood Fort -
No Ca.

J.L. Edwards Esquire
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Washington City
Page 17

Fayetteville 1st. September 1833

Dear Sir,
I again take the liberty of sending you on some further declarations of old Sherwood Fort, which I trust will satisfy them at the War Department that he is entitled to pay for services which might have been thought by his former declarations to have been rendered Voluntarily and without expectation of pay.
The old man is getting very feeble & as he is poor, he is anxious that his Claim should be decided upon - And I hope he will meet with the liberality that his services merit. 
Yours very Respectfully
Duncan Mac Rae
J.L. Edwards Esqr
Page 18

Sherwood Fort

JJ McKay
[HR]
Page 19

Admit as a private
Musician 17 monthly
$12.33

J.J. McKay
HR
Page 20

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office

Sir: 
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. Those points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus:  } ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by compling with with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim. 
_____________________________________
A Statement, shewing the Service of 
_____________________________________
Period when the service was rendered
Duration of the claimant's service.  Years  Months, Days
Rank of the claimant.
Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served.
Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service.
Proof by which the declaration is supported.
___________________________________
See page 3
_______________________
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J.L. EDWARDS,
Commissioner of Pensions.
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2

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branck of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers," all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who - were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c, Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
1. The Regular Troops.
2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.
3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.
4. Indian Spies.
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will, in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.
DECLARATION
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of}
County of  }  ss.
On this _______ day of _______ personally appeared (a) before ________________ A B. a resident (b) of _____________ in the county of __________ and State, Territory or District of ____________ aged (c) __________ years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) _________, with ____________ and served in the ___________ (e) regiment of the __________ line, under the following named officers:
[ Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rand and name of his officers;) the town or county and state in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marcked. This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.]
He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, of (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of ___________
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid. 
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I ________________________ of the Court of _________ do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of ____________________ for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this ____________ day of ______________ &c.
If, on examination of the proper record, the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out. 
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k)We, A.B., a Clergyman, residing in the ___________ and C.D. residing in  (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with _____________ , who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be ___________________ years of age: that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion. 
Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Cout further certifies, that it appears to them that A.B. and that C.D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the _______________ and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, _______________________ Clerk of the Court of _______________ do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of _______________ for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal ________________ of office, this ____________ day of __________________ &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the transaction.
If such surving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration. (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his
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3
alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State of troops of Virginia. 
1. Where and in what year were you born?
2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you nowm live?
4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.
6. { To a Soldier. { Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it?
{To an Officer. { Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons -- one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates. 
The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the inquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject. 
Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirimity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the sesrvices of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
___________________________________
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule. 
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[the following section is bracketed in the margin]
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A.B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades : For ___________ year _________ months, and ____________ days, I served as a __________. For ______________ months and __________ days, I served as a ____________; and for such service I claim a pension."
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase aboute three or four months, is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is largely objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent  authority: that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguised from any other seeal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers. 
Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of the office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
Proof of Service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same,  as well as the regiment, company and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office. 
If the notes from [a] to [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[k] This traditionary evidence is indispensable in militia cases. 
[l] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact. 
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written,  and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.
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[This page is a duplicate of previously transcribed image 21]
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[This page is a duplicate of previously transcribed image 22]
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Washington
Dec 23 1833
Sir
In the claim of Sherwood Fort for a pension under the Act of June 7 1832 I am willing as agent for the said claimant, to accept a certificate for 17 months as a musician, [being] he can open for the benefit of an musician, should the applicant be able hereafter, to produce any testimony to warrant it. 
I am Respectfully Yours
James J. McKay 

Jas L Edwards Esq
Comm of Pensions.
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Declaration (supplemental to the one now on file in the War Department) of Sherwood Fort, of Cumberland County, State of North Carolina, claiming a Pension under the Act of Congress June 7 1832. 
_____
In the original Declaration of Sherwood Fort compensation is claimed for services rendered during the Revolutionary War, and by a communication from the Pension office, dated May 1835, addressed to my agent Duncan McRae Esquire, it appears that exception is taken to that part of the claim founded on services rendered as a private in a Troop of Horse commanded by Captain Peter Robeson of Bladin. The words of the Chief of the Pension Office, J.L. Edwards Esq in the communication referred to are these - " There were no doubt many very patriotic men who in the words of the applicant were always ready and willing, and frequently did turn out voluntarily to support the Tories, and perform other mentionary services, but such services is not recognized as coming under the provisions of the law of June 7, 1832. "
From this statement, I am induced to believe that the nature of the services as rendered by me, has not been understood by the Department, for although the service was in one sense of the word voluntarily rendered, yet it was a regular in the form of the requision and obligation on my part to perform it as any other military service rendered by me during the war. - It was in a "regularly embodied corps" - "called into service by the constituted authorities; - and the "actual service in the Field" rendered, -
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In the year 1780, after my return from my tour of duty in Georgia, and the affair at Briar Creek, I came unto Bladen from Halifax, my native county - Col. Thomas Brown, afterwards Gen Brown, was the Colonel of the County, and had received orders from the Governor to raise two companies of Horse for the protection of the County of Bladen, and the surrounding Counties, against the inroads of the common enemy. The Tories, who constituted a large and formidable force, in this part of the Country, it so happened was the enemy that we had to encounter. - Under the orders of Col. Brown, so authorized two companies of Horse were raised, and embodied, the one under Captain Ervin, and the other under Capt Peter Robeson, and which when united formed one command - These two officers were regularly companioned, and ordered to enlist men. - The Company commanded by Captain Peter Robeson, was composed of men partly drafted, and partly volunteers. I was one of the latter number. - I was regularly enrolled, and engaged for twelve months, and was to receive twelve Dollars, and a half per month, on condition that I found my Horse. I did furnish my own Horse, saddle and bridle, whilst those who were furnished Horses by the State were only to receive Eight Dollars per month - My engagement was, by myself and by those under whom I served, and who representated the State, considered binding. - It was voluntary in as much as I did not stand a drafts but in every other respect I was on the same footing with those who did, the States claim on my services for the period of twelve months, and my claim for compensation for that
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term, arose from an [illegible] engagement . - I remained under the command of Capt Peter Robeson, for twelve months, and upwards. - My continued service in the troop was from June 1780 to the 12th February 1782. - The nature of the service was such that we were not always what might be called technically in the field. - After a return from an expedition, we seperated, or were temporarily disbanded and there were subject to be called out at a moments notice. - On those excursions those who had homes, went to them, but I who had no home, short of One Hundered and fifty miles, was living on my own expense until summoned to active duty. - Between the two dates above mentioned, I was twelve months in strictly active service, not merely enrolled, but mustered with the troop:- riding and fighting. - That period embraced the most trying time, that North Carolina experienced during the war. - One Robert Johnson, whose name is on the file in your office, belonged to Capt. Ervins Company. Your applicant is informed has received his pension, for six months services rendered in that troop, under similar circumstances. - Zachariah Reeves, whose affidavit accompanies my original application, served with me in Captain Robeson's Troop, and then testifies to my services. - A few years ago I saw in the possession of Major Thomas J. Robeson, late of the United States Army, and a son of CaptPeter Robeson, the actual original Muster Roll of the Troop, in which my name was inserted, - He is since dead, and I have not been able to find the Roll. - After the war, those of the troops who were then here, received Certificates of their services, entitling them to [illegible] from the State. - I was not then in this part of the
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State, having returned to Halifax County, as my original Declaration shows, and again enlisted for a tour of duty in Virginia. -
In respect to the other part of my services which seems to be sufficiently established in the opinion of the department, I take the liberty to call the attention of the Head of the Pension Bureau to the fact that whilst serving as Drum-Major, I was entitled to receive the pay of a Captain, according to the military wage which prevailed in this State. - I mention the circumstance not knowing (though I suppose it was so) that the pay, and grade was uniform in the different states.
Sherwood Fort
Personally appeared before me Benjamin Robinson, Chairman and Presiding Justice of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions of the County of Cumberland, State of North Carolina, Sherwood Fort, who swore to and subscribed the above Declaration in my presence.  August 31, 1833.
Benj. Robinson [seal]

State of North Carolina
Cumberland County
I, Daniel Mc Diarmid, Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions, in and for the County of Cumberland in the State aforesaid, do hereby certify that the name and signature of Benjamin Robinson Chairman and Presiding Justice of the said Court is in the proper hand writing of the said Benjamin Robinson, and that he at that date was the acting Chairman, as above stated.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office and of the said Court, the 31st day of August A.D. 1833.
Test  Danl. McDiamid Clk by A McLean Jr D.G.
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State of North Carolina}
Rebeson County  }
I Archibald McEachin Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions of Robeson County aforesaid do hereby certify that Richard M Bunting whose Signature appears to the foregoing affidavit and Certificate is Chairman and Presiding Judge of the said Court and his name as it there appears is his own proper Signature. 
In Testimony of which I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of my office the 18th day of April AD 1833 and 57th Year of American Independence. 
A McEachin Clk
By Edw McQueery D.C.
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State of North Carolina }
Robeson County}
April 18th 1833
Personally appeared before me Richard C. Bunting one of the Justices of the Peace of the County aforesaid, and chairman, Presiding Judge  of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions of the County of Robeson, the same being a Court of Record, Charles Moore Esquire & Col John Brown persons well known to me, the same being credible witnesses, who being first duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God to testify the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth, depose and Swear, that they are well acquainted with the general character of Nazara Milchik whose signature appears to the annexed affidavit in the matter of Sherwood Fort, that he is a man of good character and standing, and veracity, and as they believe a credible witness in whose declarations implicit reliance is to be placed. 
Chs Moore
J Brown
Sworn to & Subscribed before me 18th April 1833
Richard C Bunting J.T. & 
Chairman of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions of Robeson County.
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North Carolina }
Robeson County}
I Richard C Bunting Chairman and Presiding Judge in the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions of the County aforesaid, the same being a Court of Record do further certify that I was one of the Justices presiding in Court at the time when the annexed proceedings were had, and when the affidavit of the said Nazara Mitchell was sworn to and I do hereby certify that he is a credible witness. 
In [witness] whereof I have here unto set my hand & seal at [Lumberton] this 18th day of April 1833. 
Richard C. Bunting J.P. &
Chairman of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions of Robeson County.
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Sherwood Fort

Refer to W Edwards

Duncan McRae
Fayetteville NC
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The Amended Declaration of Sherwood Fort.
The Declaration states that in the Fall of 1775, when he had just completed his 15th year, then living in Halifax County his native place, he volunteered for a four months tour, - this was on October or November of that year, - he served as a Drummer. - and marched with his company into Virginia - he returned to Halifax in March, or April 1776, after having served out his term of duty.- The Company in which he served was commanded by Captain Michael Little of Edgecombe County, and Robert Lowrie was Lieutenant. -- There were two companies stationed at the Long Bridge.- this was near to Batchendor's Mills, and one object was to protect them.- we had a sort of battery or entrenchment of dirt thrown up. - One of these companies was Virginia Militia, under the command of a Captain whose name this Declarant does not remember with distinctness, but it sounded like Corbly.- Little got the be a major before we came back, and from him I received my discharge at Old Gen. Hogan's Muster Ground, - that is, he was old General Hogan afterwards, but he was Major then..Lourie was killed on the same evening of the battle of Long Bridge, and that very probably we were in an old field, and[they] the enemy was firing from their repel that lay off, when Lourie attempted to stop a spent Ball with his foot, it shattered his thigh, and the bone ran into his bowells [sic], and he died that same night...
Sherwood Fort
As to the services rendered in 1780, which are mentioned in my original declaration, where I was enrolled in Captain Peter Robesons troop of Horse in Bladen. - This was a service rendered as a volunteer and for which I never received a cent of pay - We were employed in hunting for the Tories, and resisting their depredations - during the first 12 months, we were almost constantly out - We went into the upper end of Cumberland, CMoore and Chatham, in this state.
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and several times, into South Carolina, into Darlington and Marion district. - I was not engaged in any burning, or other [illegible] during that time, nor could I be, for I never could stay at home a week at a time during that year. - The Tories were very troublesome, - after we had dispersed them, and thought we had given them enough to satisfy them, they would come again & invive their objections in red ink, and we had it all to do over again.- 
Sherwood Fort
My last tour of service which is mentioned in the original declaration, under Col. William Brittle, in Captain Theophilus Thomas Company, this was 1782, or whatever year it was that Cornwallis surrendered. I volunteered for a four months service in June of that year, but the time was not to run, until we rensezvoud. - We assembled in July, in Halifax, and remained embodied, until the first of October, when we were marched to Little York in Virginia, and after the surrender we were marched back to Halifax and discharged. - they wanted a few days of the four months buy out, but the jig was up, and there was no one in Keeping in any longer together. - I went in the capacity of a Drummer, expecting as I had a right, to be appointed a Drum - Major, but there was one Nathan Hale, who came out of Bertia, who got in with Col. Brittle ( for [Rejoining] went by favour in them days, pretty much as it does now) and he was appointed.- But no good come of it, for the [musical] run away, before three months was out, and no other Drummajor was appointed. - Sherwood Fort
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At the same time, and place personally appeared before me Benjamin Robinson, one of the Justices of the Peace for the County of Cumberland, and Chairman, and Presiding Judge of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions of said County, Jordan Howell and James Yates- , person of character and veracity well known to me; who being first duly sworn upon the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God, depose and say, that they are well acquainted with Zachariah Reeves, a Citizen of this County, whose affidavit in support of the claim of Sherwood Fort is hereunto annexed and that he is a man of good character and standing and is a credible [witness] and that full faith and credit is due to his statement. 
Jorday Howell
James his mark Yates
Witness Benjn Robinson J. Peace
Chairman of C. C. Court
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State of North Carolina
Cumberland County }SS
I Daniel McDerarmid, Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County of Cumberland, Do hereby Certify that Benjamin Robinson, wose name is subscribed to the annexed amended Declaration of Sherwood Fort, is an Acting Justice of the Peace for said County, and Chairman, and Presiding Judge of said Court and that the signature, is in his proper hand writing.-
In testimony of which I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this 19th day of April AD 1833. - and the 57 year of American Independence.-
D.McDiarmid Clk.
By A. McLean Jr. D.C. 
[seal is illegible]
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Also personally appeared in Open Court, Zachariah Reeves aged 76 years, well known to the Court, and a resident for many years of the County Cumberland, who being duly sworn in due form of Law, deposeth, and saith that he is well acquainted with the applicant Sherwood Fort, that he knew him in Halifax, when a boy, and next saw him in the town of Wilmington, when he was a drummer in the Brigade Commanded  by Gen. Ashe - that this applicant was at that time stationed in Wilmington, and was a soldier in the 7th Continental Regiment, commanded by Col. Moore, and belonged to the Company under the command of Capt Griffith McRee.-
He afterwards knew the said Fort in Bladen and served with him, upwards of 12 months at least, in that County, in the troop of Horse commanded by Captain Peter Robeson, under the command of Old Col. Thomas Robeson and Col. Brown - that during this period which was in the years 1780 and 1781 as he believes they were engaged frequent tours of duty in suppressing the depredations of the Tory's. 
Zach Reeves
Sworn to & Subscribed in open Court
Test D. McDiarmid Clk
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At the same time was presented to the Court, the affidavit of Zazaria Mitchill, certified in due form to this Court, under the Hand and seal of the Clerk of Robeson County. - which this Court has directed to be appended to these proceedings, and to which full faith and Credit is due. 
__
__
The Declarant the said Sherwood Fort, doth hereby relinquish every claim whatever to a Pension, an annuity except the present, and declaires [sic] that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state, - and that he has never received any compensation, in nature of a Pension, except the annual sum of Fifty-Dollars from the state of North Carolina for the last Five years, -  upon the certificate of the County Court that he is old and infirm. - and which is a mere gratuity, that the Legislature are under no obligation to continue from year to year - and even this he relinquishes upon receiving a pension under this Act.  
Sherwood Fort
Sworn to & Subscribed in open Court
Test DMcDiarmid Clk
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And the said Court do hereby declare their Opinion after a full investigation, and after pulling the interrogatories presented by the War Department that the above named Applicant Sherwood Fort was a Revolutionary Soldier and served as he states - And the Court further certifies taht the Rev. John St. Pearce, and Mr Ishalm Blake, are residents of said County, and are credible persons, and their statement is entitled to credit. - and that the first named person is a Clergyman.-
In witness whereof we have set our hands and seals. this. 3 September A.D 1832
Duncan Mac Rae JP (seal)
Dun Buie J.P. Seal (seal)
R Huckabee (seal)
Jonathan Evans JP (seal)
John McAlister JP (seal)

I Daniel McDiarmid Clerk of the Court aforesaid do hereby certify that the foregoing Containing the original proceedings in the matter of Sherwood [Fort] applicant for a pension --
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of office at [illegible] this 10th day of September AD 1832 --
D McDiarmid Clk
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7235

Duncan MacRae
Fayetteville
NC
Page 42

State of North Carolina }
Robeson County }
Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions.
August Term 1832

Be it remembered, that as a Court begun and held for the County of Robeson on the 4th Monday of August AD. 1832. (the same being a Court of Record) Present the worshipful Justices, appointed to hold the same. - 
Personally appeared in Open Court Sherwood Fort, [an] of Cumberland County State of North Carolina, for the purpose of establishing, and perpetuating testimony of the services by him performed in the Militia, during the Revolutionary War, to be used on an application to be made to the County Court of Cumberland, in support of his Declaration entitling him to the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7. 1832, entitled "an Act [to provide for] supplementary to the Act for the relief of certain surviving officers, and soldiers of the Revolution." - at which time and place also appeared Nazarai Mitchele, a citizen of Robeson County, aged 74 years, well known to the Justices holding said Court, who upon his being sworn on due form of law, upon the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God
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to testify the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth concerning what he may know respecting the services of the said Sherwood Fort deposeth and saith as follows. --
That he the applicant and this affiant served together in the Militia of North Carolina in the years 1778 and 1779, as well as he recollects later being an unlettered man.- that the said Fort belonged to Captain Thomas Scurlocks company, in a regiment commanded by Col. Thomas Eaton, and - Cik, Hesse Ethrington and being the command of Gen. Ashe, that they rederouzed [sic] at Kingston, on Neuse River, on or about the 10th of September 1778 - that said Fort entered the service in that Company at that time a Drummer; at which time & place he was appointed and commissioned as Drum-Major of the Regiment in which character he acted until they were discharged on the 10 April 1779.
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That they marched from Kingston to Elizabeth town in Bladen, where they joined Col. Alstons Regiment from Chatham, from thence into South Carolina, and Georgia; and the said Fort, and this affiant were present together at the affair on Briar Creek which took place about the beginning  of March of that year between the British and the Americans - That this affiant has since the war, continued to know the said Fort intermately [sic], and his claim to revolutionary service, has been notoriously admitted, and so far as this affiant is informed and believes, has never been questioned.-
Nazara Mitchel
his X mark
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court 27th Augst 1832 }
A McEachin Clk
I, Archibald McEchin, Clk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County of Robeson, Do hereby Certify that the foregoing is a true Record of the Proceedings in the matter of Sherwood Fort, an applicant for a Pension. - In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office, in Open Court, this 27th August 1823..
A. McEchin Clk
[Seal]
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State of North Carolina}
Cumberland County }
Be it remembered that at a Court of Pleas and quarter Sessions ( the same being a Court of Record) held for the County of Cumberland, at the Court House in Fayetteville, on the First Monday of December AD. 1833 before the Worshipful the Justices appointed to hold the same, personally appeared Sherwood Fort, a citizen of the County and State aforesaid, and swore to and subscribed the following Declaration, Supplemental & Explanatory, to one heretofore certified from this Court, at its September Sessions 1832. and to which Original Declaration, with its accompanying authentications, (now produced by him,) reference in here [illegible] and which with this, is intended to form one whole.
The Declaration, (Supplemental and Explanatory) of Sherwood Fort, made by him, claiming the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7th AD 1832. 
I Sherwood Fort, was born in the County of Halifax, State of North Carolina, on the 19th September 1759, and entered the service of the United States in the year 1775.=
First: I enlisted as a Drummer, on the 2nd of October 1775, in the County of Halifax in the Company of Capt Michael Little, Leut Robt. Lowne and Ensign Dickens, for four months, - we were ordered out by Colonel Nicholas Long, but he did not command us - We marched to a little town on Chowan River, named [Urinton], from thence to Summerton in Virginia from there to Batcheden's Mills, a small distance from the Great Bridge where our Comapny and Captain Corbitts, was stationed to guard the Mill. - We continued there as a Guard until two days before the battle of the Great Bridge - we were marched there, and took our part in the battle. Two days after we went back, and took up our station at the Mills. I served out my term of service, and was discharged on the 4th February 1776, by Major, afterward Genl. Hogan, after my return to
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to North Carolina: I served this tour, as I did through the whole war as a Volunteer, and never stood a draft. - For this service, I claim four months, with the pay of a Musician. 
Second. On the 10th day of February 1776, the same month that I was discharged, and only six days after my return home from the Great Bridge I enlisted, for three months, as a Drummer under Captain John Whitaker  Leut Cary Whitaker, Ensign William Noblin, under the command of Col. Nicholas Long: We marched from Halifax to Tarboro, from there to Whitfields Ferry on Neuse River; from there to Moore's Creek in New Hanover County; on Cape Fear River - On the 27th of February 1776 the Tories were defeated at Moores Creek Bridge, by Governor Caswell two days before we got there.- We stayed there two days, and were marched back to Halifax-town, and were discharged on the 12th day of March by Col. Nicholas Long by whom we had been ordered out. - For this tour of duty, I claim one month and two days service, (say from 10th Feb to 12 March) with the pay of a Musician. 
Third  I again enlisted on the 10th or 12th day of May 1776 in Halifax County, for three months, as a Drummer under Henry Dawson, Captain William Noblen, Leut, and John Champion Ensign, on the Regiment commanded by Cols Drury Gee, and Peter Dosier, and Major James Hogan. We marched from Halifax town to Tarborough in Edgecombe County; thence to Whitfields Ferry on Neuse River - thence to Wilmingttton N.C. where we were stationed, and where we remained encameped until the 10th of August 1776, when we were marched back to ur County, where we were discharged the 20th August 1776 by Major Hogan, at his Muster Ground - Gen Samuel Ashe, commanded the Brigade. - As for the Continental troops which were at Wilmington I knew but ffew of them. - The 7th North Carolina Regiment of the line was stationed there - I knew and saw there Zachariah Reeves, who was a county man of mine, ( and whose affidavit I have heretofore given, and which is annexed to my original Declaration) - I also knew Captain Griffith McRee, and Leut Singletary - and Col. James Moore - we camped about a mile from Wilmington, near to the said Continental 
Reg
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Regiment, among whom there was a great deal of sickness and many deaths. - For this tour of service I claim three months, pay as a Musician (say from 12 May to 12 August 1776)
Fourth. On the 10th day of November 1777, the militia of Halifax was ordered out by Col John Whitaker - on that day, I enlisted as Drummer, for three months, to guard the Goal at Halifax that contained some of the Prisoners that were taken at Burgoyne's defeat- I served under Captain Kidd, Leut Skelton, and Ensign Hardin, and was discharged by Captain Kidd at the Goal on the 20th December 1777 as we were not needed longer - For this service, I claim one month, and 10 days, with the pay of a Musician.
Fifth. I was next ordered out by Col. John Gaddy, of Halifax in the year 1778. - I enlisted on the 10 September 1778 under Captain Thomas Sculock, Leut William Noblin, Ensign Littleberry Green, for a six month tour, at Halifax. I entered as a Drummer - Thomas Eaton, and Jesse Ethington were the Cols. and Joseph Clinch the Major. We were under the command of Gen. Samuel Ashe.- We marched to Tarborough, and from there to Kinston, on Neuse River where we rendevouzed [sic]:- It was at Kingston, that I was commissioned Drum Majoy, by Gen Ashe. we marched from Kingston to Elizabethtown, Bladen County, where we joined the Regiment from Chatham, commanded by Col. Philip Alston. We then marched into South Carolina to a little town called Monks Corner, from there to the 10 Mile House; thence to Jacksonborough; thence to Dorchester another little town; thence to where Hamburgh is now built, where we met Genl Williamsons Brigade - After a few days we crossed the River, as soon as the British left the town of Augusta. In a few days we joined General Elbert, and his Georgia Regulars, and Captain Nafsier Artillery, a Frenchman. We marched down Savannah River to Briar Creek in Burke County, where we had an engagement with the Britich on the 1st or 2nd day of March 1779 and was defeated and had to cross Savannah River, to the South Carolina side again, to march down to Purinsburgh, where we joined General Lincoln.- We staid there awhile, and was marched 
Fo
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to a place called the Black Swamp where we stayed until the 10th of April 1779 when we were marched back to our own County Halifax and discahrged on the 30th April. - in this tour, I claim for 6 months service (though I actually served seven) as Drum-Major, with the pay, and emoluments of Captain, as was the compensation allowed to the Grade of Drum Major, in the service at the time.
Sixth  
My next tour of service was on Cape Fear River, in the County of Bladen, - I came from Halifax County to Bladen, in the month of June 1779: and on or about the 10th of that month as nearly as I am able to ascertain - I enlisted immediately after my arrival under the command of Col. Thomas Brown then the Col. Commandant of the Militia of Bladen County, or Col of the County as he was then called, in a troop of Horse, under the immediate command of Captain Peter Robeson as 1st. Captain and William G. McDaniel 2nd Captain, and James Singletary, Leut, for the term of 12 months, and found according to the terms and conditions of my military contract, my own Horse and accoutrements. There were in the troop enrolled One Hundred and Five men and the terms of pay, (promised) varied according to the circumstances of the recruit.. Those who found their own Horse and arms, were to have Twelve Dollars and a half a month, and those who were furnished by the State received Eight Dollars a month.- In this troop, I enlisted and served as a private.- Although I enlisted only for the term of 12 months I continued to serve until the 12th day of February 1781, when I obtained a written discharge from Col. Thomas Robeson who was at the time the second Col...This service although voluntary in one sense, (in as much as in this town as well as in all the different terms of service which I performed, I was a volunteer, and never stood a draft) was not gratuitous.- I entered into obligations to the State to perform certain military service, and her agents acting under her authority, and representing the constituted authority of North Carolina, entered into agreement with me to pay certain stipulated wages.- I was regularly enrolled, was subject to military rule, and was liable to be shot as a Deserter, if I had quit the service, before the twelve months
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months [crossed out before the] had expired, for which I enlisted.- There was another troop of Horse, formed in the lower part of the County under Capt Jarrott Irvin, forming part of Col. Browns, and Col. Robesoons command, with whom we served at times, but more frequently seperate.- During this period I did not follow or pretend to follow any civil employment whatever; I had no home short of 130 miles, from the Head Quarters of the Regiment which was at Col. Robeson's Plantation, about 7 miles above Elizabeth-Town in Bladen County.- I was during the time of this service, in three several engagements with the Tories, one on the Raft Swamp in Robeson County, another, at Elizabeth, and the third which took place at Col. Owens Plantation, on the 2nd February 1781. ten days before I received my discharge. I served during this tour in field, and was literally out on expeditions fourteen months of the eighteen of my enrollment. I was during this time, sent on various expeditions in the Counties of Robeson, Moore, Chatham, Cumberland, and what is now Columbus, and also into South Carolina - For this service, I claim a Pension, for the term of 12 months serving as a Private. 
Seventh
I returned home to my native county Halifax, immediately after my discharge, when I again enlisted under Captain Grisham Coffield, and Leut Benjamin Coffield,  and Cornet Rowell, for three months, under Colonel John Whitaker, the Col. of the County, who went with us, and commanded us, when we marched to Rumseys Mills on Deep River in Chatham County, and from thence to Guilford Old Court House, where we arrived two days after the battle fought there on the 15 March 1781,- when we were marched back, and was discharged in Halifax by Col. Whitaker on the 27- same month - on this expedition I found my own Horse, and served as a private.- I was in actual service, 26 days for which I claim a Pension, as a private.
Eighth
June 30th 1781. I was ordered out John Whitaker, Col. and I enlisted as a volunteer for Four months, as a Drummer with the expectation of the Drum Majors place, but was disappointed through the Col's giving it to Nathan Hale, who ran away before the time
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time was out - I served my time out as a Drummer under Captain Theophilus Thomas, Leut Philip Sanders, and Ensign Benjn.  Barnes. We were commanded by Col. William Brittle.- We were  marched from Halifax to Richmond, Virginia, near a hundred miles out of our direct course to Little York, where we arrived the day after the surrender of Lord  Cornwallis - stayed two days there and marched back to Halifax where we were discharged on the 27. October 1781 at Halifax town, lacking a few days of four months.- For  this tour of service I claim a Pension, for 4 months, as a Musician:
==
The foregoing to the best of my knowledge and remembrance, is a just and true statement of my services; and there is not one of my companions in arms alive, to my knowledge, except Zachariah Reeves, and Lazarui Michell, whose affidavits have been heretofore given - My discharges are lost,- as to what became of them, - in the year 1804, I and my wife were about to go from Cumberland County to Halifax, on a visit to my mother, when I got Mr Thomas [Thomas] to [take] charge of my papers, who took them with him to his House - they were put in a chest, on which some of his family set a tub of lie, that leaked, and went through a crack of the Chest lid, and destroyed the whole of the bundle of papers.-
Sworn to & Subscribed in open Court
Sherwood Fort
Test. AMcLean Jr. Clk
The above Declaration, was sworn to and subscribed before us in Open Court; and the said Court Do hereby declare their Opinion that the above named applicant Sherwood Fort, was a Revolutionary soldier, and that he served, as he herein hath stated
In witness whereof We have hereunto set our hands and seals this [illegible] day of December, AD. 1833.
D.A. Davis J.P.
Esek Arnold J.P.
Malm. McColman J.P.