Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 8078, for John George Peiffer, Pennsylvania
Page 1

(3-1776)
SERVICE
Penn
Peiffer, John George
or Pfeifer or Peifer
NUMBER
R. 8078
Mary Magdalena
CONTENTS
Page 2

[German - see translation]
Page 3

[German - see translation]
Page 4

TRANSLATION
MISCELLANEOUS
A.
Mr. George Pfeifer and Miss Magdalena Schafer entered into the state of holy matrimony on April 2 A.D. 1781 and in the beginning of their marital state lived in Machanay township, Northumberland County. The names of these children who were born of the Christian marriage of this husband and wife of the place named above are the following:
Barbara born February 21, 1782.
Godparent: The grandmother.
Georg born August 22, 1783.
Godparent: Georg Schafer.
Eva born May 22 (but later changed to 28) 1785.
Godparent: Johannes Schafer.
Elisabeth born October 6, 1787.
Godparent: Peter Furst.
Johannes born May 16, 1789.
Godparent: Nicolaus Brosius.
Michael born May 14, 1791.
Godparents: Michael Schafer and his wife.
Samuel born April 16, 1794.
Godparent: Philliz Rauschkolb.
Magdalena born May 14, 1796.
Godparent: Andreas Keitz.
Catharina born May 14, 1799.
Godparent: Heinrich Miniam.
Margaretha born January 18, 1802.
Godparents: Peter Brosius and Chatarina Keitz.
On May 15, 1802, we moved away from our first place of residence and took up our domicile in Crawford County, Blumfield township. Where God gave us another young son, who due to his weakness, saw the light of this earthly world only for one year and nine months. In 1810 we again moved our domicile and now live in Crawford County, Mead township.
Translated from German
by Matteossian js/ 5/11/34
Page 5

[German - see translation]
Page 6

[German - see translation]
Page 7

[German - see translation]
Page 8

[German - see translation]
Page 9

TRANSLATION
MISCELLANEOUS
Johann Georg Peifer "d:: is g: "
was born of Christian parents on September 15 A. D. 1756 in Heidelberg township, Berks County. The godparents to the baptism were Georg Joh. and his wife, Maria Elisabetha. He was baptized by Pastor Wagner "g:· n:· d: g:· b:".
The parents are: The respectful Johannes Peifer and his respectful wife named Maria Barbara.
Maria Magdalena Schaferin was born of Christian parents on June 2 A. D. 1762 in Heydelberg township, Berks County. The godparents: Bernhart Voss and his wife, Martha. She was baptized by pastor Waltschmidt. The parents are: The respectful Johannes Schafer and his wife named Maria Eva nee Sabin.
Translated from German
by Matteossian / js/ 5/11/34
[Stamp:
U. S. VETERANS BUREAU
TRANSLATION SECTION
MAY 14, 1934
MAIL SUBDIVISION
VERIFIED TRANSLATION]
Page 10

TRANSATION
MISCELLANEOUS
B.
Johan Georg Pfeifer was born of Christian parents on September 15, 1756, in Heidelberg township, Berks County, and was baptized on December 11 according to the Christian rites by Rev. Pastor Wagner at a church meeting. His godparents, who held him over the font of the holy baptism, were George John and his wife, Maria. His parents were named: Johannes Pfeifer, his mother Maria Barbara.
After earnest and careful bringing up by the parents, this son of theirs was confirmed in the year 1772 in Maconay township, Northumberland County, by Rev. Pastor Enderlein and admitted as a member of the Christian Evangelical Church.
On April 2, 1781, he was married according to the rites of the Christian church to Miss Magdalena Schafer, legitimate daughter of Johannes Schafer and his wife, Maria Eva, of Mahonay township, Northumberland County, by Rev. Pastor Enderlein, who confirmed the bride and groom and bound them in the tie of matrimony.
God blessed their marriage with 11 legitimate heirs, of whom 9 followed the father to the grave in mourning. Four male children, Georg, Johan, Michel, Samuel and five female, Barbara, Eva, Elisabeth, Magdal., Margre., all of whom are married. He died on Sunday, January 19, 1823, at 5 p.m. from a suffocating catarrh after having complained on the evening of the 14th that he was sick. His last yearning was for the spring of life, the word of God which was spoken to him by Rev. Pastor Meyer according to the Gospel of Luke, chapter 7, verses 1-8, in the presence of his entire family and others, on which occasion, upon being questioned, he replied, acknowledging and confirming his faith. In his lifetime he was known as a kind father to his children, a tender husband, a loyal citizen, an earnest follower of his religion and church, and he died as a Christian awaiting the reward of his Lord following a virtuous life, at the age of 67 years 4 months and 4 days.
Translated from German by Matteossian / js/ 5/11/34
[Stamp:
US VETERANS BUREAU
TRANSLATION SECTION
MAY 14, 1934
MAIL SUBDIVISION
VERIFIED TRANSLATION]
Page 11

Pennsylvania
Crawford County, ss. 
On this sixteenth day of March, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Eight, personally appeared in open Court, before the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County now sitting, Mary Magdalena Peiffer, a resident of Woodcock Township in said County, aged Seventy Six years, the 2nd day of June next, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed the 4th July 1836. That she was the daughter of John Schafer, and was born, as she has always understood, and verily believes, on the 2nd day of June 1762, in Heidelberg Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania. That somewhere about the year 1770, her father moved, with his family, to Mahanoy Township, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, and on the 2nd day of April 1781, she was married to George Peiffer, in said Township last mentioned, and lived with him until the day of his death, the 19th day of January 1823, since which period she has continued unmarried. That the said George Peiffer was born September the 15th 1756, in Heidelberg Township, aforesaid, where this deponent first knew him, and that he moved to Mohanay Township aforesaid, about the year 1771, shortly say, within one or two years after her father. That she cannot speak with any kind of precision of the Military services rendered by her husband in the army of the United States, during the Revolutionary War prior to their marriage, but that she knows that he was out on duty at different periods, for considerable length of time, the fact of his absence and the cause of it, she knew at the time, but cannot tell the length of time or places where he was, excepting as informed by him afterwards, both before and subsequent to their marriage, viz. that the first Military tour was for six months, in the neighborhood of Philadelphia, and that he was in the battle of Germantown
Page 12

and his second and third ones were for two months each, one was the West branch of the Susquehanna River, above Northumberland, and the other up the North branch, at Fishing Creek, against the Indians. After their marriage, deponent states, that her said husband was out twice on military duty, and both times went, as she then understood, and now believes, up the North branch of the Susquehanna River, above Northumberland, in pursuit of the Indians. The first of these two last services must have been in March or April 1782, from the recollection that her eldest daughter, Barbara, was not more than one or two months old at the time, and lasted, she would say, at least, two weeks. And the other was the summer following for about the same length of time. She cannot remember under what officers he marched or served at either of the periods mentioned, and if she ever did know, it has entirely escaped her memory. During her husband's first absence on duty, in the spring of 1782, deponent was baking bread in an oven, a short distance from the dwelling, and while attending to it, she became so much alarmed, from dread of the Indians, that she fastened herself in the house, and was unable or unwilling to return to take her bread from the oven, in consequence of which it was lost. She has no recollection of ever seeing a discharge of her husband or any paper by which his services could be proven, but she annexes the probate of John Nicholas Conrod, who had some knowledge of his services, and their marriage, also the probate of her son George Peiffer, as to certain other facts, and certain, and certain papers marked A., B. and C., respectively showing the periods of deponent's and her husband's births and marriage, and the births of their children, and certain other facts as therein mentioned. The paper marked A. was written in the year 1819 by one Augustus Hubutas, a teacher in the neighborhood, at the instance and request of deponent's husband, he being unable to write. Where the said Hubutas now is, deponent has no knowledge, not having heard of him for many years. Paper B was written by the Rev. Philip Mynhuffer, a German Clergyman, immediately after deponent's husband's death, and was taken from papers
Page 13

A., and C. and facts which had then occurred. Paper C. was written by a man by the name of [blank] Trevits, in the year 1794 or 1795 for deponent's husband, in Mahanoy Township aforesaid, and has been in the family ever since. Besides these papers, deponent avers she has no knowledge of any documentary evidence whereby the births and marriage of herself and husband can be proven. She further states that about Thirty-Six years since, her husband moved with his family from Mahanoy to Bloomfield Township, Crawford County aforesaid, and from there he moved to Mead, now Woodcock, Township aforesaid, where he resided till his death and where she has ever since resided. That she heretofore applied to the Legislation of this State for and obtained a pension, in consideration of her husband's services during the Revolutionary war as before detailed. Other than this, she declares her name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any State, and that she hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity, except the present.
Mary Magdalena Peiffer [her mark]
Sworn in open Court this [blank] of March 1838
(Witness) Israel Berlin
Also came John Nicholas Conrad, who, on his solemn oath, duly administered, says he was born on the 15th of October 1764, that in the fall of 1773, his father moved from near Reading, Pennsylvania, to Mahanoy Township, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, and that soon after, deponent became acquainted with Mary M. Shaffer, now Mrs. Peiffer, the within applicant and daughter of John Shaffer who then resided in said Township about six miles distant from deponent's father's. That about the year 1776, he became acquainted with George Peiffer, who also resided in said Township, about 13 miles from deponent's and that the said George Peiffer and Mary M. Shaffer were intermarried, as deponent believes, in the forepart of the year 1781. That he knows of the said Peiffer's marching as a volunteer and militia man from Mahanoy Township in the spring of 1777, for the neighborhood of Philadelphia, and as deponent understood at the time, was to join the
Page 14

regiment, or men under the command of Col. Potter of Pennsylvania, and afterwards learnt that the said Peiffer had been in the battle of Germantown, but deponent cannot now say how long he was out in service, but is of the belief it was six months. After the marriage of the said Peiffer in the Summer of 1782, deponent, with many others in Mohanay Township, was called upon to march against the Indians. He went to Sunbury, the place of rendezvous, where he saw Peiffer on duty ready to march, but in a different company to that in which deponent was. He marched up the West branch, and Peiffer up the North Branch, but how long said Peiffer was out, deponent cannot say. After deponent moved to Meadville, Penna., in the year 1802 where he has continued to reside ever since, with an interval from 1807 to 1814, the said Peiffer also moved to the said County about the year 1803. It was always understood in Mahanoy that Peiffer had been out at different times on duty against the British and Indians, but how often and when, from the great lapse of time and failure of memory, deponent cannot now tell except as above stated. He always considered him, as well as his wife, as credible persons, and in whose word full reliance could be placed. Sworn in open Court, March 1830. John Nicholas Conrad
Also came George Peiffer, who being duly sworn, says he is the son of George Peiffer, deceased, and Mary M. Peiffer, the foregoing applicant. That he was born in Mahanoy Township, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, on the 22d of August 1783, and had one sister older than himself, named Barbara, who was born the 21st day of February 1782. That his father resided in said Township till the 15 of May 1802, when he removed to Bloomfield Township, Crawford County, Penna., and continued to reside there till 1810 when he removed to Mead, now Woodcock, Township in said County, where he continued to reside till the 19th of January 1823, when he departed this life. Deponent recollects well of the three different
Page 15

papers being written, the one marked A. by a man of the name of Augustus Hubertas, at deponent's father's and at his request, in the year 1819. The paper B. by the Rev. Philip Maynhoffer, two or three days after the decease of deponent's father, and the one marked by C by one Conrad Trevits, at deponent's father's, and at his request in 1794 or 1795, deponent got a similar one for himself at the same time. The two papers, A and C, were kept by his father until his death, and are the only ones, except paper B showing the births and Marriage of deponent's parents and the births of their children, of which deponent has any knowledge. He further states, that he has frequently heard his father speak of his services in the Revolutionary War. That as early as he can recollect, he heard him tell of his being a volunteer for some months in 1777, that he marched from Mahanoy aforesaid to near Philadelphia, and was in the battle of Germantown, that he was afterwards drafted twice as a militia man for two months each, once up the west and the second time up the North branch of the Susquehanna, against the Indians, and that he was out at several other times, for short periods, for similar purposes.
George Peiffer
Also came Israel Berlin, who on his solemn oath duly administered says that he is aged 44 years, that that he was acquainted with George Peiffer from the year 1811 till the time of his death. That sometime in the year 1813, the deponent heard him say that at the time Lafayette made his celebrated retreat in the year, he, Peiffer, was with the Pennsylvania Militia on the opposite side of the Schuylkill and he was generally believed to have been a soldier in the Revolutionary war.
Israel Berlin
Page 16

I certify that Mary Magdalena Peiffer, John Nicholas Conrad, George Peiffer and Israel Berlin were severally sworn in open Court to the foregoing statements given by them respectively, this 16 March 1838.
James Cochran, Clerk
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, that the within named George Peiffer, deceased, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, as is stated in the foregoing statements of Mary M. Peiffer, John N. Conrad, George Peiffer and Israel Berlin. Also that the applicant, Mrs. Peiffer, was the wife and now the widow of the said deceased, as within stated. And the Court further certifies that it appears to them that John Nicholas Conrad, who has given his statement and affidavit as within mentioned, is a resident in the Borough of Meadville, Crawford County, Pa., that Israel Berlin and George Peiffer, who have each given their statements and affidavits within are residents in Woodcock township, County aforesaid, are credible persons and that their statements are entitled to credit. Also that the annexed papers marked A. B. C. respectively, are original papers as deposed by Mrs. Peiffer and George Peiffer.
Stephen Barling
John H. Work
Pennsylvania
[illegible] ss.
I, James Cochran, Prothonotary of the Court of Common pleas in and for said County of Crawford, do certify that the foregoing and annexed papers are the original and only ones in the application of Mary [illegible] a pension. In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Meadville this 16th day of March 1838.
James Cochran
Page 17

August 19, 1932
BA-J/AWF
John George Peiffer
R. 8078
Miss Anna E. Rhodes
Saegerstown
Pennsylvania
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter requesting information in regard to George Peiffer, a soldier of the War of the Revolution.
The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, R.8078, based upon the Revolutionary War service of John George Peiffer. In the claim he is usually referred to as George Peiffer, the name is also spelled Pfeifer and Peifer.
He was born September 15, 1756 in Heidelberg Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania, and about the year 1771 moved to Mahanoy Township, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania.
He married April 2, 1781 in Mahanoy Township, Mary Magdalena Shaffer. She was born June 2, 1762 in Heidelberg Township, Pennsylvania, and was the daughter of John Shaffer. Her father with his family, moved about the year 1770 to Mahanoy Township, Pennsylvania.
John George Peiffer died January 19, 1823 in Woodcock Township, Crawford County, Pennsylvania.
His widow, Mary Magdalena, applied for pension March 16, 1838, at which time she was living in said Woodcock Township.
It was alleged that John George Peiffer served in the militia of Pennsylvania at various times from 1777
Page 18

until 1782 under Captains Gray, Reid, Adam Shaffer and Colonels Oshterman and Potter, that he was in the battle of
Germantown.
The claim was not allowed as proof of six months service [illegible] the pension law, was not established.
The widow was pensioned by the state of Pennsylvania, on account of the services of her husband, John George Peiffer, in the War of the Revolution.
She died October 10, 1844.
The children of John George Peiffer and his wife, Mary Magdalena -
Barbara, born February 21, 1782
George, born August 22, 1783
Eva or Eve, born March 8, 1785
Elizabeth, born October 6, 1787
Johannes or John, born March 14, 1791
Samuel, born April 16, 1794
Magdalena or Mary M., born March 14, 1796
Catharina, born March 14, 1799
Margaretha or Margaret, born January 18, 1802
The following children survived their mother - George Peiffer, John Peiffer, Samuel Peiffer, Barbara Farst, Elizabeth Minieum, Mary M. Lesher, and Margaret Kepler.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator
Page 19

James L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Peiffer, John G.
Penn. R.8078
Page 20

Clarion County and State of Pennsylvania
Personally appeared before me, the subscriber, a Justice of the peace in and for said County, Christian Roads, and after being affirmed according to law, doth depose and say that he was acquainted with the within named George Peiffer of Northumberland County, Pa. He was first known to him previous to his being married to the said Mary M Shaffer. He assisted his father, Michael Roads in making Mr. George Peiffer's wedding shoes in the year 1781. He knew him to be in the Revolutionary War, that he was out full as long as Andrew Shaffer states and that he was on two scouting parties of seven days each, after marriage to the said Mary M Shaffer. I am 80 years of age.
Christian Roads [his mark]
Affirmed and subscribed before me this 6th day of April AD 1846.
James Wilson, JP
I likewise certify that the above-named Christian Roads is a creditable witness.
James Wilson, JP
Clarion County, SS.
I, James Goe, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of Clarion County, do hereby certify that James Wilson, Esquire, before whom the foregoing Deposition was taken, is an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County, to all whose official acts as such, full faith and credit are due, and whose signature thereunto annexed is genuine and in his own proper handwriting. In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of our said Court at Clarion this 6th day of April A.D. 1846.
James Goe, Prothonotary
Page 21

Mr. George Peiffer, now aged Sixty Two years and oldest son of George and Mary M. Peiffer, deposeth and says that he [illegible] heard his father say that he was in the service of the United States under General Potter as a volunteer in the Pennsylvania Militia for six months, shortly after the Battle of Brandywine and frequently heard him state that the army or part of the army crossed the Schuylkill River (of which he Peiffer was one) on a Bridge constructed of wagons placed across the stream, between Christmas and a New Years days and part of them waded across and that he was present with the Army during the winter and that he frequently said the Red Coats and likewise he heard him say that he was out in two militia tours on the North and West branches of Susquehanna, stationed at one time at Fishing Creek Fort when word was brought in that the Indians were coming, about the time the women were milking the cows and that he was considerably divested at seeing the milt pails flying and that he assisted in burning the dead that fell at Freeling's Fort. These two tours being performed previous to his being married, and that after he was married, he was out on several scouting parties against the Indians, one of these scouting tours being performed after deponent's oldest sister was born. Deponent would refer you to the Papers of Mary M. Peiffer as exhibited in the Pension office of the United States in 1838 and in particular to the Deposition of Israel Berlin and that of N. Conrod of Crawford County.
Meadville April 9th, 1846.
George Peiffer
Sworn and subscribed before me this 9th day of April A.D. 1846.
J.G. Grier, JP
Page 22

Israel Berlin deposeth and says that Mary M. Peiffer, consort of George Peiffer, deceased, died on the 10th October 1844, leaving heirs at law living, and now living, George Peiffer, John Peiffer, Samuel Peiffer, Barbara Farst, Elizabeth Minieum, Mary M. Lesher, and Margarett Kepler, all children of George and Mary M. Peiffer, Deceased.
Israel Berlin
Sworn and subscribed before me this 9th day of April A.D. 1846.
J. G. Grier, J.P
Crawford County, ss.
I hereby certify, that J. G. Grier, Esq. aforesaid, is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, and that the signature purporting to be his is true and genuine. Witness my hand and the seal of the Courts of said County this 9th day of April A.D. 1846.
Jas. E.M Farland, Prothonotary
Page 23

ALBERT R. HALL
11TH DIST. INDIANA
Congress of the United States
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C.
May 20, 1927.
Hon. Winfield Scott,
The Commissioner of Pensions,
Department of the Interior,
Washington, D. C.
My dear Mr. Scott:
A short time ago, you were good enough to send me the military records of John Pfifer, a Revolutionary War veteran. I am not just sure now what militia he served with as I sent your letter to a constituent but as I recall, it was either the Pennsylvania or North Carolina forces.
It so happened that these records were not of the veteran that my constituent had in mind and if there are any other veterans by the name of John Fifer or Pfifer, I shall be glad to have their records.
I shall also appreciate knowing the records of any John Tackett of Pennsylvania and any John Marshall of North Carolina unless the number of similar names would burden you too much in securing their records.
With many thanks for your favors, I am
Sincerely yours,
Albert R. Hall
Page 24

ALBERT R. HALL
1ITH DIST INDIANA
Congress of the United States
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C.
April 9, 1927.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Department of the Interior,
Washington, D. C.
My dear Mr. Commissioner:
At your convenience, I shall be pleased to have you look over the records of the Revolutionary War pensioners and see if the following can be obtained:
William Davis and Nathaniel Farmer, members of the North Carolina forces. Nathaniel Farmer, it is understood, was a Minute Man in Captain Parker's Company and was wounded. If the names cannot be
found in the North Carolina records, it might be well to search the records of the New Jersey companies.
I shall also be pleased to have you look at the records of the Pennsylvania troops and see if you have any record of John Fifer, of Pfifer.
Appreciating your attention to this request, I am
Very truly yours,
Albert R. Hall
Page 25

Saegertown, Pa. Aug. 3, 1932
Bureau of Pensions
Rev. Sect.
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir,
I wish to obtain the military history of George Peiffer, served from Pa. in Rev. War, a pensioner.
I need also same history of Daniel Terrill of Pa. and Henry Minium of Fayette Co. Virginia, now West Virginia.
Also, Dean Swift from Conn.
Former requests have been received most gratefully.
Anna E. Rhodes
[Stamp: Aug 4, 1932, Bureau of Pensions]
Page 26

712 Bond Bldg., Washington, 5, D.C.
Dear kin:
I am mailing you papers of our 61,000 descendants of English-American HOLCOMBES, including you, from sample pages of the most complete history ever published of a single surname.
You are among some, who can have this record of their branch in loose sheets, for .75¢ in stamps.
If you order before remaining books are sold, the .75¢ sent will be credited on book.
The book is too expensive to reprint. The influence for good of such a book to this and future generations, and not gain to me, prompted the making of this book from 1939-1947. Devotedly, your cousin, Elizabeth Wier McPherson
Page 27

57,000. Mary J. Hamilton, Naliali, Barren Co. Ky, widow $8.00 Allowed June 1867
20,932 Maria Hamilton, Paris Bourbon Co., Ky widow $8 Nov. 1868
20,027 Kitty A. Hamilton, North Middletown, Bourbon Co., Ky, Widow of 1812. Mar 1879.
5,148 Saml Hamilton, Brookville, Bracken Co Ky, Survivor 1812 $8 Sept 1871 Allowed
Page 28

Established 1817
One Hundred Years of successful, continuous Hotel Business in Crawford County. The Only Hotel in Meadville with Hot and Cold Water in Every Room. Rebuilt 1894, New Annex 1914. Everything First-class.
Kepler Hotel
M. G. KEPLER, PROP'R
CORNER OF MARKET STREET AND MARKET SQUARE
Center of Business Section
EUROPEAN PLAN,
MEALS A LA CARTE
RATES: $1.50 TO $2.50 PER DAY
MEADVILLE, PA. Oct. 6th, 1920.
U.S. Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir,
Being desirous of being a Daughter of the American Revolution, I am directed to address you for the purpose of being informed as to whether or not my "Ancestor" was a "Pensioner" as a Revolutionary War Veteran.
My ancestor was John George Peiffer, born in Northumberland County, Penn'a., on the 15th day of Sept. 1756, dying in Woodcock Twp., Crawford Co., Penn'a., June 19th, 1823.
In 1802 he moved from Northumberland Co., Penn'a., to Bloomfield Twp, Crawford Co., Penn'a.
Respectfully submitted,
Kepler Hotel,
Meadville, Penn'a.
Miriam Catherine Kepler
[Stamp: U.S. Pension Office Oct 8, 1920]
Page 29

1920 Nov. 11 History to Miriam C. Kepler
1927. Apr. 12. History to Hon. Albert R. Hall, Esq.
1927 May 23 Hon A. R. Hall
Informed no other AW
1932 Aug 29 History to Anna E. Rhodes
8078
REJECTED
Mary M. Peiffer
Service: [blank]
Enlisted: [blank]
Discharged: [blank]
Application filed: [blank]
Alleges: The printed list of 1852 gives cause of suspension.
Re-enlisted: Not six months service established.
Attorney: [blank]
P. O. [blank]
[blank] Recognized.
[blank] Contract,
[blank] Cert. of Dis. Searched for [blank]
Page 30

8078
3.362
Mary M. Peiffer
Pennsylvania
Suspended
See letter 31 March 1838 Hon. A. Plumer
See letter 7th March 1839
See letter 5 June 1844 to Hon S. Hays H. R.
See letter E.F. Brown, Jan. 6, 1847
J. C. G. Kennedy, Dec 4, 1853
J. C. G. Kennedy, Dec 24, 1853
J. C. G. Kennedy, May 5, 1855
Act 4 July 1836
Page 31

Acknowledged 12 Nov
Page 32

Venango 8th Nov. 1833
Dear Sir
Your favor of the 1st instant has been received. I thank you for your kindness.
I send you power of attorney for Geo. and Samuel Peiffer and Hannah Leavy, both are suspended claims. Peiffers, I think, will be able to prove six months service of their father, by Andrew Shaeffer who now lives in Jefferson Co. This claim is in the hands of Mr. Neely. In the Mrs. Leavey's case, her father died in 1840, in Ashtabula Co., Ohio.
You would do well perhaps to examine closely into the Ely case I sent you some time ago. There may be back pay.
Mrs. Peiffer, the mother of Geo. and Samuel, received a pension from this State. He name was Mary Magdalena. She applied for a pension in Feb 1838. She died Oct 2nd, 1844. In 1845-46, the heirs applied again but received no answer.
Very truly yours,
Joseph S Perkin
Joseph C G Kennedy, Esq.
Washington, D.C.
Page 33

[illegible]
Dec 24, 1853
Page 34

416
Pension Office,
December 24. 1853
Sir,
The affidavit of Andrew Sheaffer, filed in support of the claim for pension of Mrs. Mary M. Peiffer, has been received. It is to the same purport of the one made by him in 1845, when the claim was suspended. It is a historical fact that the tours of the Pennsylvania Militia were not for as long a time as he testifies. I again refer you to my previous letter.
Very respectfully
&c
J. C. G. Kennedy, Esq.
Present
Page 35

Edmd. F. Brown
Jan. 6, 1847
Page 36

76
Pension Office
January 6, 1847
Sir
The additional testimony filed by you in the case of Mary M. Peiffer, does not establish in the manner required the allegations of service to which exceptions have heretofore been taken. Two months service in 1777 have been admitted. The subsequent tours claimed are not established.
Edwd. F. Brown, Esq.
Present.
Page 37

[illegible]
5 June 1844
Page 38

73
Pension Office
June 5, 1844
Sir
In answer to the enclosed letter, I have to inform you that the claim of Mrs. Mary M. Peiffer cannot be allowed, unless she will produce such proof as the regulations direct. The letter of the 7th March 1839 to the Hon. A. Plumer, of which the enclosed is a copy, will show what is required.
I have the
Hon. Samuel Hays
House of Rep.
3362
Act 4 July 1836
Pennsylvania [illegible]
Page 39

Ad Ev
Mary M. Peiffer widow of George
Pa. Sus. 1836
J. C. G. Kennedy
Present
Page 40

74)
Sixth Regiment, 1781
We and each of us whose names are hereunto subscribed, do acknowledge to have received from Major Thomas B. Bowen and Captain Escurius Beatty, Agents for the late Pennsylvania Line, the several sums opposite to our names respectively, in Certificates, dated July 1, 1784, bearing Interest at six per cent, from January the first 1782, signed by John Pierce, Commissioner, and described as below, being for the Balance of a settlement between the United States and us for Pay &c. to January the first 1782.
Date of Issue | No of Certificates | Letter | Names | Sums (Dollar, 90th) | Signers
Aug. 17, 1784 ┃ 68.995 | Gx | Alexr McKinley | 99., " | Alexr McKinley
Aug. 27th, 1784 | 96 ┃ Nx | Richard Hampton | 8., " | Richd Hampton
Aug 11th 1784 | 68.997 ┃ Px | George Peffer | 42., 60 | George Peffer
Auditor Generals Office
Harrisburg Feb. 24, 1855
I certify the above to be a true copy of the original remaining on file in this department.
Witness my hand and seal of office the day of year aforesaid.
E. Banks, Auditor General
Page 41

May 5, 1833
Page 42

Pension Office
May 5, 1855
Sir
The soldier of the Line who, in 1784, received a balance of $42.60 for Revolutionary services, must have been a different man from the husband of Mary M Peiffer of Pa. as he was a militia Soldier, as all the proof in the case shows.
J. C. G. Kennedy, Esq.
Present
Page 43

J.C.G. Kennedy
Dec 14, 1853
Page 44

171
Pension Office,
December 14, 1853
Sir,
In relation to a claim for pension of the heirs of George Peiffer, an alleged soldier of the Revolutionary war, I have the to state that an application was made in 1838 by Mary Peiffer, who claimed to be his widow, and the case suspended on the ground that the evidence adduced was insufficient to establish the requisite period of service.
You are referred to the enclosed copy of a letter dated March 7, 1839, for a statement of the exceptions taken to the case at that time. The requirements of the office therein specified have not since been satisfactorily complied with.
Very respectfully, &c
J. C. G. Kennedy, Esq.
Present.
Page 45

Hon. A. Plumer
March 31, 1838
Pa.
Page 46

War Dept. Pension Office
March 31, 1838
Sir,
The papers in the case of Mrs. Mary A. Peiffer, widow of George Peiffer, deceased, have been examined and filed with suspended cases. She alleges that her husband served as a militia man of Pennsylvania for a term of six months in 1777, during which he was at the battle of Germantown and for two other tours of two months each, and for a term of two weeks in the summer of 1782, and a like term in 1783. There is no evidence in this office that the militia of Pennsylvania served longer than two months under one engagement and unless documentary or record proof be exhibited shewing that the claimant's husband served six months as alleged, only two months service can be computed for the first tour. The two alleged tours of two months each should be proved by witnesses from personal knowledge. They should state the period, the officers' names, and the place or places where the service was performed.
Hon A. Plumer
H. R.
Page 47

EDMUND F. BROWN, Attorney and Agent for Claimants, Notary Public and Commissioner for Virginia, Illinois, and Alabama, &c., continues to attend to the settlement of business before Congress and the several Departments of the General Government, and particularly claims for Pensions, Patents, Lands, Contracts, &c.
Office on Seventh street, two doors above the City Post Office.
Letters (postage paid) may be addressed, E. F. Brown, Box 103, P.O. Washington City.
U. S. Agency, Notarial, and Commissioner's Office,
Washington City, 28th December 1846
Established in 1843.
J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Sir:
About the year 1838, Mrs. Mary M. Peiffer, Widow of George, applied for a Pension under Act of 1836, and before she succeeded in obtaining the additional evidence then required, she died, 10 Oct. 1844.
I am requested by her heirs to present the enclosed additional evidence, and request that they may be allowed the Pension due to her at her death.
These papers were sent me some time since, but returned for authentication.
It is believed that proof of Marriage is already filed.
Very Respectfully,
Your Obedient Servant,
Edmund F. Brown
Page 48

18)
Brawley Crawford
The Petition of Mary Magdalena Peiffer, the widow of an old Soldier Praying for aid.
H.R. January 4, 1837.
[illegible]
Bill
Gratuity and annuity
Hon. A. Plumer, H.R.
The Petition of Mary Magdalena Peiffer
Page 49

To the Senate and House of Representation of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
The petition of Mary Magdalena Peiffer of Woodcock Township, Crawford County, Pennsylvania. Respectfully sheweth:
That she is the widow of George Peiffer, late of the same place, deceased, that she was married to the said George about year 1780 in Mahoney township, Northumberland County, Pa. and lived with him until the time of his decease in January 1823. That the said George was born, from the best information your petitioner has, about the year 1756 in Heidelberg township, Berks County, Pennsylvania. That prior to their intermarriage, he marched either as a volunteer or enlisted soldier, but under what officers, petitioner cannot now from failure of memory state, from Northumberland County, and joined the main Army and was at the battle of Brandywine. That he was out in service six months. That after their intermarriage, the said George, in 1782, but the season of the year not recollected, was called out at different times to march against the Indians. That he was out sometimes one and at others two months.
That in 1802 the said George moved with his family from Northumberland to Crawford County, where he lived until the time of his decease. Your petitioner states that she will be seventy-five years of age the second day of next July. That she is poor and in indigent circumstances and is [illegible]. That from the services rendered by her husband as a soldier in the Revolutionary war, for the proof of which she annexes the testimony of Henry Minicuso. She is entitled to receive a pension. She respectfully prays that one may be granted her.
And she will pray, &c.
Mary Magdalena Peiffer [her mark]
Witness
George Peiffer
Page 50

Crawford County, ss.
Henry Mincum of Woodcock township in said County, being duly sworn, says, that he is seventy-six years old the 20 day of this month. That he was personally acquainted with George Peiffer, within named, from the time he, the said George, was about fifteen or sixteen years old till his decease. That in the year 1777, and deponent thinks in the spring of the year or early part of the summer, and he recollects the year from its being the same one in which Philadelphia was taken by the British, the said George was drafted to volunteer to march to [illegible] Philadelphia. That he marched from Sunbury and thinks from what he heard at the time and now recollects that Gen. Potts had the command. That he does not personally know where the said George marched to, but understood that it was towards Philadelphia, and that he was engaged in the Battle at Brandywine. That he recollects of said George returning the latter part of the fall of that year, after he had been absent six months, the time
for which he and the other men had volunteered or been drafted and that he often heard him speak of the battle and of his being in it, and deponent has not the slightest doubt but that he actually was. Deponent states that he knew of the said George marching at different times about the years 1781 and 1782, on scouts against the Indians in Northumberland County, and thinks two months at a time, but he cannot mention the particular places he was stationed at, except one time at Fishing Creek. And further that he knows the within named petitioner to be the widow of the said George and that they must have been married about the time she states in her petition. That the said George moved from Northumberland to Crawford County about the year 1802, and died in 1823, and that the widow is poor and in indigent circumstances.
Henry Mincum
Sworn this 19 December 1836
Before me
John P Davis
Page 51

TRANSLATION
MISCELLANEOUS
A.
Mr. George Pfeifer and Miss Magdalena Schafer entered into the state of holy matrimony on April 2 A.D. 1781 and in the beginning of their marital state lived in Machanay township, Northumberland County. The names of these children who were born of the Christian marriage of this husband and wife of the place named above are the following:
Barbara born February 21, 1782.
Godparent: The grandmother.
Georg born August 22, 1783.
Godparent: Georg Schafer.
Eva born May 22 (but later changed to 28) 1785.
Godparent: Johannes Schafer.
Elisabeth born October 6, 1787.
Godparent: Peter Furst.
Johannes born May 16, 1789.
Godparent: Nicolaus Brosius.
Michael born May 14, 1791.
Godparents: Michael Schafer and his wife.
Samuel born April 16, 1794.
Godparent: Philliz Rauschkolb.
Magdalena born May 14, 1796.
Godparent: Andreas Keitz.
Catharina born May 14, 1799.
Godparent: Heinrich Miniam.
Margaretha born January 18, 1802.
Godparents: Peter Brosius and Chatarina Keitz.
On May 15, 1802, we moved away from our first place of residence and took up our domicile in Crawford County, Blumfield township. Where God gave us another young son, who due to his weakness, saw the light of this earthly world only for one year and nine months. In 1810 we again moved our domicile and now live in Crawford County, Mead township.
Translated from German
by Matteossian js/ 5/11/34
[Stamp: U.S. Veterans Bureau, Translation Section, May 14, 1934, Mail Sub-Division, Verified Translation]
Page 52

Power of Atty to H. G. Kermit
from
Geo & Samuel Peiffer. Rev. Sol.
J.C.G. Kennedy
Present
Page 53

Know all men by these presents that we George Peiffer and Samuel Peiffer of the Township of Woodcock in the County of Crawford and State of Pennsylvania, and children and legal representatives of George Peiffer, a Solder of the Revolution from the State of Pennsylvania, and Mary Magdalena, his wife, both of whom are now deceased, do hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint Joseph C G Kennedy, Esq., of Washington City, D.C., our true and lawful attorney for us and in our name and stead to examine into and prosecute any amount of Pension that may be due the heirs and legal representatives of the said George Peiffer by virtue of his service in the Revolutionary war and the several acts of Congress relative thereto. We do hereby authorize our said attorney to apply for and obtain from State archives or other sources, certified proof of such service, to examine all papers or documents in relation to such service on file in the Departments at Washington City or elsewhere, and we do hereby countenance and revoke all powers of attorney and authority heretofore by us given for the above purpose. Hereby ratifying and confirming all that our said attorney shall lawfully do in the premises.
In Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals this third day of September AD Eighteen hundred and fifty-three.
George Peiffer [seal]
Samuel Peiffer [seal]
In presence of
J. L. Perkin
Crawford County and State of Pennsylvania
On this third day of September AD 1853, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, George Peiffer and Samuel Peiffer and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be their act and deed for the purposes therein expressed.
Joseph L. Perkin
Justice of the Peace
Page 54

STATE OF PENNSYLVANIA.
CRAWFORD COUNTY, SS.
I, JOSEPH BROWN, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of said county of Crawford, Certify that Joseph L Perkin, Esquire, by whom the annexed and foregoing acknowledgement was taken, was at the date thereof, an acting Justice of the Peace, within
and for the said county, duly qualified, and as such duly authorized by the laws of this Commonwealth to take the same. And further, that I am acquainted with the handwriting of said Justice and believe the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
I hereunto set my hand and affix the Seal of said Court at Meadville, the third day of September A.D. 1853.
Joseph Brown, Prothonotary
Page 55

State of Pennsylvania
County of Jefferson, ss.
On this 26th day of November AD. Eighteen hundred and fifty Three, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, Andrew Shaeffer, aged 83 years, now a resident of said County, who after being duly sworn according to law, states he was well acquainted with George Peiffer, now deceased, who was a soldier of the Revolutionary War from the State of Pennsylvania, and who for many years before his death lived in the County of Crawford, State aforesaid. That the said George Peiffer served in said war for a period of not less than six months as a volunteer in a Regiment Commanded by Col. Osterman under Gen. Potter and that he entered said service shortly after the Battle of Brandywine and was honorably discharged in March or April 1778. That he (deponent) seen him (Peiffer) at his return at his (deponent's) father's house at his (Peiffer's) return from said tour at said time and that after wars, he (deponent) resided near him (Peiffer) in Crawford County, Penna. for 18 years and was well acquainted with him and frequently heard him state that he was in said service for the period of six months. He further states that he knows from the uniform statements of the aforesaid George Peiffer that he served two other tours of two months each against the Indians up the Susquehanna in Militia of Penn. He also swears further that he has made affidavit in the case before and stated then or intended to state that said George Peiffer served over six months but has since learned that it was not so put down, and he swears that he is a disinterested witness.
Andrew Sheaffer [his mark]
Witness Israel Berlin
Sworn and subscribed before me
Alexander McKinstry, J.P.
Page 56

I do certify that I have been acquainted with the witness afore named for some twelve or fourteen years and that he has always been considered as a man of veracity and truth, and that full confidence may be put to his oath.
26th November 1853
Alex M Kinstry, J.P.
Jefferson County, ss
I, William McCandless, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said county of Jefferson in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, do certify that Alex McKinsey, Esq., whose genuine signature thereto subscribed to the above Certificate, is and was at the date thereof a Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly commissioned and sworn, to all whose official acts as such full faith and credit is and of right ought to be given.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Court at Brookville the 26 November 1853.
Wm. McCandless, Prothonotary
Page 57

TRANSATION
MISCELLANEOUS
B.
Johan Georg Pfeifer was born of Christian parents on September 15, 1756, in Heidelberg township, Berks County, and was baptized on December 11 according to the Christian rites by Rev. Pastor Wagner at a church meeting. His godparents, who held him over the font of the holy baptism, were George John and his wife, Maria. His parents were named: Johannes Pfeifer, his mother Maria Barbara.
After earnest and careful bringing up by the parents, this son of theirs was confirmed in the year 1772 in Maconay township, Northumberland County, by Rev. Pastor Enderlein and admitted as a member of the Christian Evangelical Church.
On April 2, 1781, he was married according to the rites of the Christian church to Miss Magdalena Schafer, legitimate daughter of Johannes Schafer and his wife, Maria Eva, of Mahonay township, Northumberland County, by Rev. Pastor Enderlein, who confirmed the bride and groom and bound them in the tie of matrimony.
God blessed their marriage with 11 legitimate heirs, of whom 9 followed the father to the grave in mourning. Four male children, Georg, Johan, Michel, Samuel and five female, Barbara, Eva, Elisabeth, Magdal., Margre., all of whom are married. He died on Sunday, January 19, 1823, at 5 p.m. from a suffocating catarrh after having complained on the evening of the 14th that he was sick. His last yearning was for the spring of life, the word of God which was spoken to him by Rev. Pastor Meyer according to the Gospel of Luke, chapter 7, verses 1-8, in the presence of his entire family and others, on which occasion, upon being questioned, he replied, acknowledging and confirming his faith. In his lifetime he was known as a kind father to his children, a tender husband, a loyal citizen, an earnest follower of his religion and church, and he died as a Christian awaiting the reward of his Lord following a virtuous life, at the age of 67 years 4 months and 4 days.
Translated from German by Matteossian / js/ 5/11/34
Page 58

Crawford County, ss.
Andrew Shaffer deposeth and says that he was acquainted with George Peiffer in the year 1778 and from that period he was intimately acquainted with him for the space of fifty years. He was first acquainted with him prior to his being married, he, the said Peiffer, was married in the year 1781 to Mary M. Shaffer, both of Mahoney Township, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania. He says he knew him, the said Peiffer, to have been in the Revolutionary war under Gen. Potter of Pennsylvania, a volunteer in 1777-78. He thinks his captain's name was Gray. He is certain that he the said Peiffer was out under Gen. Potter six months; he likewise knows of Peiffer subsequently being out on two different tours in the Militia, one of the tours was of two months' duration under Capt. Adam Shaffer, the other tour he was under Capt. Reed in company with deponent's father. Both tours were up the Susquehanna against the Indians. These tours were all performed prior to his, the said Peiffer, being married. He afterwards was out on two scouting parties of seven days each. In one of the Militia tours he, the said Peiffer, assisted in burying the dead that were killed by the Indians at Freeling's Fort. The deponent was born in 1771. Although he was young, he says he can distinctly recollect when the said Peiffer returned from his first tour under Gen. Potter from the vicinity of Philadelphia. He can recollect that it was in the Spring of the year and all has been retained in his memory from the often repeated assertions that he heard made by Mr. George Peiffer himself, his deponent's father and mother and other neighbors and that the aforesaid George Peiffer, together with Mary Magdalena, his wife, and family removed from Northumberland County to Crawford County Penn., in the year 1802 where he died in 1823, where now his family and descendants reside. Deponent's father, together with deponent and his family, emigrated to Crawford County in 1800.
Page 59

Deponent further says that to George and Mary Magdalena Peiffer there were born nine children that arrived to the age of maturity, viz Barbary, George, Eve, Elizabeth, John, Michael, Samuel, Mary Magdalena and Margaret. Eve and Michael are deceased. The rest of the family all reside at present in Crawford County, Pennsylvania.
Andrew Shaffer [his mark]
Sworn and subscribed before me this 15th day of August 1845
Jos. Morrison
Justice of the Peace
I likewise certify that the above Andrew Shaffer is a credible witness.
Jos. Morrison, J.P.
Crawford County,
State of Pennsylvania, ss.
I, William McArthur, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County, do hereby certify that Joseph Morrison, Esquire, before whom the foregoing deposition was taken, is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, to all whose acts as such, due faith and credit ought to be given, throughout the United States, and elsewhere.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court, at Meadville, this fifteenth day of August, AD. 1845.
Wm. McArthur
Prothonotary
Page 60

TRANSLATION
MISCELLANEOUS
Johann Georg Peifer "d:: is g: "
was born of Christian parents on September 15 A. D. 1756 in Heidelberg township, Berks County. The godparents to the baptism were Georg Joh. and his wife, Maria Elisabetha. He was baptized by Pastor Wagner "g:· n:· d: g:· b:".
The parents are: The respectful Johannes Peifer and his respectful wife named Maria Barbara.
Maria Magdalena Schaferin was born of Christian parents on June 2 A. D. 1762 in Heydelberg township, Berks County. The godparents: Bernhart Voss and his wife, Martha. She was baptized by pastor Waltschmidt. The parents are: The respectful Johannes Schafer and his wife named Maria Eva nee Sabin.
Translated from German
by Matteossian / js/ 5/11/34
Page 61

[illegible]
March 7, 1839
Hon. A. Plumer
Franklin, Penna.
3362
Act 4 July 1836
Page 62

War Dept., Pension Office
March 7th, 1839
Sir,
The additional testimony in the case of Mrs. Mary M. Peiffer, widow of George Peiffer, deceased, has been examined and filed with her other papers in this office. The usual service of the Pennsylvania Militia was in tours of two months, and there must be an error in the statement that the militia were marched to Philadelphia in the spring of 1777. The service of the militia was not required at that city until it was known that the enemy intended attacking, it which was not until sometime in August. Only two months can be allowed for the time in 1777, and the two other alleged tours of two months each previous to the claimant's marriage should be proved by witness who had a personal
Page 63

knowledge of the service. I herewith return Mr. Derrickson's letter to you.
[illegible]
March 7, 1839
Hon. A. Plumer
Franklin, Penna.
3362
Act 4 July 1836
Page 64

[German newspapers]
Page 65

Rev. and 1812
Wars Section.
April 12, 1927
Honorable Albert R. Hall
House of Representatives.
My dear Mr. Hall:
In response to your letter of the ninth instant, I have the honor to advise you that the Revolutionary War records of this Bureau fail to afford any information in regard to Nathaniel Farmer, who served in either the New Jersey or North Carolina Troops, if however he ever served in the troops from any other state, please so state, furnishing as much as possible of the following data -- approximate dates of birth and death, and place of residence after the Revolutionary War, also please furnish the same data in regard to William Davis, and a proper search of said records will be made in your behalf.
You are herewith furnished the history of the only John Fifer or Pfifer (all spellings of that name searched) found on the Revolutionary War records of this Bureau.
From the papers in the Revolutionary War pension
Page 66

claim R. 8078, it appears that John George Peiffer or Pfeifer or Peifer was born September 15, 1756, in Heidelberg Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania and married April 2, 1781, in Mahoney Township, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, Mary Magdalena, daughter of John Shaffer. She was born June 2, 1762, in Heidelberg Township, Pennsylvania. Soldier moved in 1810 to Mead, which was later Woodcock Township, Crawford County, Pennsylvania, where he died January 19, 1823, and his widow, Mary applied for pension March 16, 1838, while a resident of Woodcock Township, Pennsylvania.
It is alleged that soldier served in the militia of Pennsylvania at various times from 1777 to 1782 under Captains Gray, Reid and Adam Shaffer and Colonels Osterman and Potter, and that he was at the battles of Brandywine and Germantown.
The claim was not allowed, as she failed to furnish sufficient proof of six months service, as required by the pension law.
She died October 10, 1844. Their children were
Barbara, born February 21, 1782
George, born August 22, 1783
Eva, born March 8, 1785
Elizabeth, born October 6, 1787
Johannes, born March 14, 1791
Samuel, born April 16, 1794
Magdalena, born March 14, 1796
Catharina, born March 14, 1799
Margaretha, born January 18, 1802
Catharina, Eva and Michael died before their mother,
Page 67

3-
the others survived her.
Very truly yours,
WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner
Page 68

May 23, 1927.
Honorable Albert R. Hall,
House of Representatives.
My dear Mr. Hall:
In response to your letter of the twentieth instant, I have the honor to advise you, that the Revolutionary War records of this bureau fail to afford any information in regard to John Tacket, or Tackett, John Marshall or Marshal of the North Carolina Troops and any John Pfifer or Fifer, under any spelling of that name, other that John George Peiffer, whose record was furnished you on April 12, 1927.
Please note paragraph two of that letter stating that he was the only John of any spelling of that name found on these records.
Very truly yours,
WINFIELD SCOTT,
Commissioner
Page 69

November 11, 1920.
[illegible] Catherine Kepler,
Kepler Hotel,
Meadville, Penn.
Madam:
In response to your letter dated the 6th ultimo, you are advised that in the Revolutionary War pension claim R. 8,078, it appears that John George Peiffer of Pfeifer or Peifer was born September 15, 1756 in Heidelberg Township, Berks County, Pa. and married April 3, 1781 in Mahanoy Township, Northumberland County, Pa., Mary Magdalena, daughter of John Shaffer. She was born June 2, 1762, in Heidelberg Township, Berks County, Pa. Soldier moved in 1810 to Mead which was later Woodcock Township, Crawford County, Pa., where he died January 19, 1823, and his widow Mary applied for pension March 16, 1838, while a resident of Woodcock Township, Crawford County, Pa.
It is alleged that soldier served in the militia of Pennsylvania at various times from 1777 to 1782 under Captains Gray, Reid and Adam Shaffer and Colonels Oshterman and Potter and other officers whose names are not stated, and that he was at the battles of Brandywine and Germantown.
Her claim was not allowed for the reason that she failed to furnish sufficient proof of six months service as required by the pension laws.
Page 70

She died October 10, 1844. Their children were:
Barbara, born February 21, 1782
George, born August 22, 1783
Eva, born March 8, 1785
Elizabeth, born October 6, 1787
Johannes, born March 14, 1791
Samuel, born April 16, 1794
Magdalena, born March 14, 1796
Catharina, born March 14, 1799
Margaretha, born January 18, 1802
Catharina, Eva and Michael died before their mother, the others survived her.
Very respectfully,
F.D. Byington
Acting Commissioner.