Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 4,397, for Robert Purtle, Maryland
Page 1

Service Md
Purtle, Robert
Wistel, Catharine
or
Whistler
Former Widow

Number W. 4397
B.L. Wt 38,340-160-55
Page 2

George W. Bowers June 25/56
1198
Maryland
Catharine Wistle or Whistle
widow of Md Robert Purtle
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private
inscribed on the Roll oat the rate of 30 Dollars 00 cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 18th day of Dec. 1833 and sent to G. W. Bowers
Page 3

32.721 Acb. March 3/55
Jan 17/56
Catharine Wistel or Whistler
formerly widow of Robert Purtle, Private
Md. Ma.
Enl.
Rev. War.
Md July 48 - 1198

George M. Bowers
Baltimore, Md.
Page 4

Marriage

No. 3.
Page 5

Fourth day of August in the year Seventeen hundred and ninety-six
"Married Robert Purtel to 
Catharine Sitler"
I, W. E. Wyatt, Rector of Saint Pauls in the City of Baltimore, hereby certify that the above is a true copy of the record or Register of Saint Pauls Parish with the exception of the date which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures as follows "1796 Aug 4"

I. W. E. Wyatt above named depose and say that I hold the office of the Rector of Saing Pauls Parish in the City of Baltimore and State of Maryland and that the above is a true extract from the Records of said Parish with the exception above named as certified by me.
W. E. Wyatt
Rector of Saint Pauls
Sworn before me on this 16th day of April A.D. 1852
Henry F. Friese
Justice of the Peace
State of Maryland
Baltimore City
I hereby certify that Henry F Friese Esquire before whom the annexed affidavit was made and who has thereto subscribed his name was at the time of so doing A Justice of the Peace of the State of Maryland, in and for the City of Baltimore, duly commissioned and sworn.  
In Testimony Whereof I hereto set my hand and affix the seal of the Superior Court of Baltimore City, this 21st day of May A.D. 1852
Edward Lowling
Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City
Page 6

Claim of Mrs Catherine
Hostel family Purtle
Act of March 3d 1855

732
232.21

George W Bowers
Agent
Baltimore City
Md
Page 7

State of Maryland
Baltimore City
On this Eighth day of January Eighteen Hundred and Fifty six personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace within
and for the City and state aforesaid Catherine Wistel formerly
her widow of Robert Purtle aged 92 years a resident of Baltimore
City in the of Maryland who being duly sworn according to law
declares that she is the widow of Robert Purtle deceased who was
a private in the company commanded by Capt [blank]
in the 1st Maryland regiment in the Revolutionary War
that her said husband entered the service in said war at St Marys
County the about 17 and continued in what service in will
war full nine months and was honorable discharge at St Mary's
Co. She further states that she was married to the said Robert
Purtle in Baltimore on the first day of January 1796 
by the Parson Bend, Preacher ant that her name before
her said marriage was Cathrine Wistel that her said husband
died at St Marys County Md on the first day of June 1802
and that she is now a widow and that she now draws a
United States pension as the widow of said Robert Purtle for
his services in the Revolutionary war to which papers she refers
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty
land to wich [which] she may be entitlled [entitled] under the act approved
March 5 1855

Catherine X ^her mark^ Wistel [hand drawn cloud around the word, Seal]

Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above
written  I certify that I have no interest in this claim
Basil Root
Justice of the Peace
Page 8

State of Maryland
Baltimore City
Before me ths subscriber a Justice of the peace in this and for
the City and State aforesaid personally appeared David Firoved 
and Anderson Hoffman residents of Baltimore City in the
State of Maryland who being duly sworn deposeth and saith
that they are personally acquainted with Mrs Catherine Nortet
formerly Purtle widow of Robert Purtle deceased who they believe
and was always reputed to have served in the Revolutionary War
as a private in the 2d Maryland Regiment that in all that
Mrs Catherine Wistet is now drawing a pension from the United
States for the services of her said husband Robert Purtle
of that said Robert Purtle was married to Catherine Sittes near
the [illegible] on the first day of January 1796 that they [illegible]
and they were always [illegible] reported to have been married on
the day and year above written their marriage was never
brought in question and that the said Robert Purtle died
at St Marys County Md on the first day of June 1802
that the foregoing [illegible] declaration was signed and
acknowledged by Mrs Catherine Wistal formerly Purtle
in our presence and that we knew that she is now a widow
and that we are disinterested
David Firoved [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal inside]
Anderson Hoffman [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal inside]

The foregoing affidavit now sworn to and subscribed before me this
8th day of January Eighteen hundred and fifty six and
I Certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons
Basil Root
Justice of the Peace
Page 9

State of Maryland 
Baltimore City
I hereby certify that Basil Root 
Esquire before whom the foregoing declaration and affidavit 
were made was at the time of so doing a Justice of the 
peace within and for Baltimore City in the State of Maryland 
duly commissioned and sworn
In Testimony Whereof I hereto 
set my hand and affix the 
seal of Superior Court of Baltimore 
City this 10th day of January 
AD 1856

Edwd Dowling
Clark Superior County Baltimore City
Page 10

Catharine Wistel
formerly Purtle
for Pension
No. 6
George W Bowers
Agent
Baltimore
Page 11

State of Maryland}
City of Baltimore}

On this Eleventh day of November Eighteen hundred and
fifty three before me a Justice of the peace in and for the City and State
aforesaid personally appeared Caroline Sitter aged seventy five years a
resident of Baltimore City who being duly sworn according to law declares
that Robert Purtle who was a Revolutionary Soldier, who is now dead
was reported and believed to have been married to Catherine Setter in 1796
the present Catherine Wislet, the facts of their being married was never
brought in question. Robert Purtle who was a Revolutionary Soldier in the
Maryland line, died on the 12th of March 1802 in St Marys County
MD. The Robert Purtle who died on the day and year above named was
reported and believed to have been a Revolutionary Soldier and have
always heard him spoken of as a Revolutionary Soldier and as the Robert
Purtle who served in the Maryland line.
The Robert Purtle who served in the Revolutionary War, the Robert Purtle
who died as above stated in St Marys County is the Identical Robert
Purtle who was married to Catherine Setter in 1796. The Catharine
Setter who was married to the aforesaid Robert Purtle is the present
Catharine Wistel. This witness knows the fats by being a Sister in law
and knowing them about sixty years and deposes and says that the
Robert Purtle who is now dead, The Robert Purtle who was a Revolutionary
Soldier was the Identical Robert Purtle who was the husband of
Catharine Purtle formerly Sitter at present WistelThis witness further swears that she has no interest whatever in this
case but given her affidavit to wid Catharine Wistel formerly
Purtle to obtain a pension wich [which]she believes she is entitled to.
Caroline X ^her mark^ Sitler [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal inside]

Sworn to and subscribed on
the day and year above written
Maurice Bushe
Justice of the Peace
Page 12

State of Maryland
Superior Court of Baltimore City

I Hereby Certify that Maurice Bushe Esqr
before whom the foregoing affidavit were made was at the time
of so doing a Justice of the peace in and for the City of
Baltimore and State of Maryland duly commissioned
and sworn duly authorized by law to administer
Oaths for general purposes
In Testimony Thereof I hereto set my
hand and affix the seal of the Superior
Court of Baltimore City this 17th
day of November AD. 1853
Edwd Dowling
Clk
Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City
Page 13

No 13985
Catharine Wistle [illegible]
wd of Robert Purtle
Md
Act 7 July 1838
No. 1.
Page 14

Land Office,
Annapolis, 21st, June, 1849,
I hereby Certify, that it appears by the Muster Rolls of
the Revolution remaining in this office, That
Robert Purtle, enlisted as a private, in the 2nd, Maryland
Regiment, for the term of nine months, on the 25th, day of May,
1778, and in the Margin of Remarks, opposite his name on said
roll, there is the following entry, "Time out, discharged, pd,"
George G. Brewer
Regr Land Off. Md.

[half way down the page, top line is cut off and illegible]
the term of Nine months on the 25th day of May,
Seventeen hundred and Seventy eight, and rendered
services in the Revolutionary Army to the United
States, regularly until discharged, when he was paid
She further declares that she was Married to the
said Robert Purtle, in the Month of August in the
year Seventeen hundred and ninety Six by the
Revd. Mr. Bend of the said City. That sometime
after the death of her first said husband Robert
Purtle, which occured [occurred] in the year (Seventeen hundred and
ninety seven,) she was again Married to William
Wistel, who is also dead: and that she still remains a widow,
Sworn to and subscribed on
the day and year first above written
Before me.

Catharine | | ^her mark^ Wistel
Page 15

State of Maryland
City of Baltimore} S.S.
On this first day of August
Eighteen hundred and forty nine, before th
Subscriber associate Judge of Baltimore City
Court, the same being a Court of Record personally
appeared Catharine Wistel, formerly Catharine
Purtle, whose maiden name was Sitler, aged
Eighty one years and upwards, a resident of
the said City, but formerly a resident of Saint
Marys County who being first duly sworn according
to Law doth on her oath make the following
Declaration in order to obtain the benefits of
the provisions made by the Act of Congress passed
July 7th 1838 Entitled an Act Granting Pensions
to certain widows. - That she is the widow of
Robert Purtle, who enlisted as a private soldier for
the term of Nine months on the 25th day of May,
Seventeen hundred and Seventy eight, and rendered
services in the Revolutionary Army to the United
States, regularly until discharged, when he was paid
She further declares that she was Married to the
said Robert Purtle, in the Month of August in the
year Seventeen hundred and ninety Six by the
Revd. Mr. Bend of the said City. That sometime
after the death of her first said husband Robert
Purtle, which occured [occurred] in the year (Seventeen hundred and
ninety seven,) she was again Married to William
Wistel, who is also dead: and that she still remains a widow,
Sworn to and subscribed on
the day and year first above written
Before me.

Catharine | | ^her mark^ Wistel
Page 16

The within declaration of Catharine Wistel
formerly Catherine Purtle was subscribed
& sworn to before me this 1st day of August
1849
Alex. Nisber
Assot. Judge. Galtimore
City Court

City of Baltimore Sct
I hereby certify that the Hon'ble
Alexander Nisber whose name is subscribed
as above before whom the written affidavit 
was made was at the time of subscribing the same
and still is associate Judge of Baltimore city and
duly commissioned & sworn to all of whose acts
as such full faith [illegible] credit are due & ought
to be given as well in courts of justice as thereunto
In Testimony whereof I have
hereunto subscribed my name
and affixed the seal of my office
this first day of August in the 
year eighteen hundred & forty
nine
Wm H Gatchell clk
Balt City
Page 17

Revy WIDOW, &c.
File No. 4397 Whistler
Catharine Wistel [diagonally here: former]
Widow
Robert Purtle
Pri. rev. War
Act: July 29, 1848
Index:-Vol. M, Pages 338 & 329
[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 18

232721.
Page 19

Baltimore Janry 11th 1856

D Sir
I have the honour to present you the
declaration of Mrs Cathrine Wistel formerly the widow
of Robert Purtle deceased for bounty Land
Please give it your earliest notice
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
George W. Bowers

J Minot Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 20

38,340
Rev War
Page 21

[diagonally across top right: On Official Business]

FREE
J Minot Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
DC

[vertically on left side follows]

243662
Anna M Leightner
Wid
John

252121
Catharine Wistel
wid
Robt Purtle

[written on top of the previous: Boynton]

[round black stamp inscribed as follows: BALTIMORE MD JUN 24]
Page 22

On Official Business
FREE
J Minot Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.

[round black stamp upper left inscribed as follows: BALTIMORE MD JAN 11]

[vertically on left side: 232221.]
Page 23

1122
Catharine Westel
Maryland

July 29 1848
Page 24

W 13985
Catharine Wistle
Md
Letter William Alexander 23d Nov 1849

Act 7 July 38
Page 25

[two panel page; left panel follows]
Jary 4 1854

[right panel below]

No 1122
Catharine Westel
Md
William Alexander 23 Nov 1849
RA Cassin Aug 10 1852
Same Septem' 22 1852
Same Novr. 20 1852
Evans & Fant 18 May 1853
Rob A Cassin 14 June 1853
Geo W Bowers Nov 2 1853
Same Nov 23 1853
[drawing of a pointing finger] Decision of Office affirmed by Dec 7
Int. See letter to GWBowers 7 Jany/54
RA Cassin Octo 10 1854
GWBowers 14 Octo 1854
Same Nov 18 1854
Same March 10 1855
Same April 6 1855
Same April 20 1855
Same April 27 1855
H.C. Spaulding June 6 1855
R.W. Young " 13. 1855

July 29 1848
Page 26

[round black stamp inscribed as follows: BALTIMORE MD APR 22]

[diagonally on upper right corner: On Official Business]

FREE
Le P. Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.

[vertically on left side follows]

Catharine Westel
R Purtel
[illegible] - 29 9.48
Page 27

Catharine Wistel formerly widow of Robert Purtle
1836 or 1838 - depended - filed by G.W. Bowers
of Baltimore
Mr Hays to Exactly [illegible]
Page 28

Ann Campbell Medam Daneel
NH 29 July 1848 Adm
Catharine Whistler - Md
Susp 29 July 1848.
Mr Evans - to Ex - Oct 8 - 1852
Page 29

Baltimore 8 Decr 1855
To the Commr of Pensions
Dear Sir
An application
for revolutionary pension will be made at 
your department in behalf of Mrs Wistle formerly
Mrs Purtle. Of the merits of the case I
know nothing. My object is to say that
that James Smith and P T Wilson,
who I learn will testify in the case, are
gentlemen known to me as sustaining
the character of estimable citizens of
Baltimore.
[illegible] Your or serv
Joshua Vansant
Page 30

Baltimore Sept 28 1852
I hereby authorize Wm Be [illegible] of
Baltimore City in the state of Maryland
to prosecute the claim of Robt Purtle
for Pension on account of services in 
the war of the Revolution. Who's 
agent I am on the part of the
widow Catherine Whistler -
Robert A. Cassin [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal written inside]
Witness
T Booth Roberts
Page 31

Baltimore February 2,d, 53.
Honble Sir
I addressed you a letter some
time ago relative to the case of Catharine
Whistler, applicant for Pension for services rendered
by her husband Robt Purtle, the additional
proof required by you having been forwarded
some six weeks and having heard no
intelligence relative to the affair to the 
matter as the widdow [widow] is in indigent circumstances, 
and at a very advanced age, she is
constantly annoying me in regard to it.
She is very desirous that the matter
should come to a conclusion; and is
advised to petition congress immediately
in the matter a member of the House of
Reps will undertake it for her immediately
as soon as she is able to get about
to make the necessary forms in the matter
you will be pleased to give the matter
as early a consideration as you can -
Very Respectfully Your Obt St
Robert A Cassin
Balto City
Atty

Robt Purtel served in 
the 2d Maryland Regt.
of the Revolution as
private as will be seen by certificates at
your offices filed with declaration by me.
Page 32

Baltimore Sept 20th 52
Sir.
As I am frequently importuned by Mrs
Catharine Whitler relative to her Pension Case
which is now on file at the Department
She being very aged and feeble and in great
necesity [necessity] I would respectfully call your 
notice to her claim, She says she does not expect
to live long and thinks hard she is not had
some settlement relative to her Claim Her
declaration with accompanying evidence and
poff is on file and his been for five months.
She is the widdow [widow] of Robert Purtell who
served in the Revolution War State of Maryland
be pleased to gratify her as early as possible
I have the honor to be very Respectfully
You Obt St.
Robert A Cassin Agent
for claimant
To Commissioner of Pensions
Washington DC.
Page 33

Balto June 14, 56
Sir
Do me the kindness to inform me
what disposition has been made of the
case of Catharine Whistler widow of Robert
Purtell of 2d Regt of Md War of the Revolution
application was made by me for a
pension in the case after which I entrusted
the matter to Geo Hickman Atty at Law of
this City since when I have heard no tidings
on the matter, has the case been allowed?
When? and to what person
or how stands it. 
Respectfully 
Your Old Servant
Robert A Cassin

Comm of Pension
Washington DC.
Dept of the Interior
Page 34

Baltimore Jany 18th 1856

D Sir
Please send me a certificate to
show that Mrs Cathrine Wistel formerly Purtle
widow of Robert Purtle deasd of the Maryland
Line is now a United States pensioner
She is applying for a State pension
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
George W Bowers

J Minot Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 35

Baltimore October 9th 54
Sir
I hope my communication
to you of last week has not escaped
your notice but will receive a
reply very soon.
I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
Your Obt St.
Robert A Cassin

PS
I allude to the
case of Catharine Whistler
for Revolutionary Pension
2nd Regt widdow [widow]of Robert
Purtle
Page 36

Catharine Wistel or Whistler
formerly widow of Robt Purtle
Maryland
Amd. July 29 1848
9 mos pri $30/00
per annum from
4 March 1848

Cert to 
GW Bowers Esq
Baltimore
Md.
Page 37

Brief in the case of Catharine Wistel or Whistler formerly wid of Robt Purtle
County and State of Maryland
act July 29 1848

Claim, ("original,")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance
Record evidence of service, with which her husband is identified by the
testimony of a contempory, [contemporary] who knew he was in service,
and by witness who know his reputation of service,
among them Mr PT Wilson of Baltimore who is certified
by Hon. Joshua Vansant to be known to him
to be an estimable citizen of that city
Record of marriage
Cohabitation, general reputation of marriage
her identity with soldiers widow, his death
and her present [illegible] prively credible
witnesses

Name and residence of Agent
GW Bowers Esq
Baltimore Md

Thornton Triplett
Examining Clerk.
Page 38

Robert A. Cassin
Baltimore
Oct 12 1854.
Respecting the case of
Catharine Whistler applicant
for a Pension. ~

Acknowledged and resprj
referred to Com of Pensions
for attention
Dept of Interior
Oct. 14. 1854
Geo C Whiting
Chf clk

Acknowledge the [illegible] &
tell him that his letter has
been [illegible] com of Pensions
that he maybe
once more informed of the
precise objections to the at
[illegible] of the claim but
that the Comr decision
your are opinion and
affirmed by [illegible] the case cannot
be recorded in without
ditional evidence or [illegible]
those objections be fitial.
Packard
13 Oct 1854.
Page 39

To the Hon: - McLellan Secretary of the Dept of the Interior
Baltimore October 12th/54
Sir
As agent for Catharine Whistler a
petitioner for a Pension for Revolutionary
services of her deceased husband Robert Purtel
I have filed her declaration accompanied by
documentary evidence establishing the following
facts 1st that Robt Purtell was a Revolutionary
Soldier of the 2d Maryland Regiment, "served
nine months, time out, discharged"
2d that Catharine Whistler is the widow of
said Purtel, which fact was evidenced by
the oath of said Catharine, by the Records of
the Baltimore Superior Court. by the affidavits
of the Keeper of the Parish o Records, and by
the oath of one living witness of known
respectability. Having as I supposed
satisfied the Law, I was surprised to be 
informed by the Department that the case
was suspended, and could not be opened
without further evidence. I have addressed
several communications to the Department
to know in what respect the evidence is defective
but they have given no specific objections, I am
therefore at a loss to know to what point to direct
further enquiries - what fact is necessary to prove,
or what further evidence is required, In this
dilemma I have no alternative but to address
myself to the head of the Department for the
Specific objections which I have called for
in vain, herewith I enclose the last communication
received from the Commissioner. I have the honor to be yours Respecty
Robert A Cassin
Page 40

Baltimore Oct 4th/54
Sir: The enclosed document which is a pact
of the correspondence had on the subject of Mrs
Whitlers claim will answer the first of your
Interrogatories. The Claims for services rendered in
the Revolutionary War in the 2d Maryland
Regt. The papers in his case must have been
filed between May & August /52
I suspect an error must have crept into
my note of the 28th uet as you speak
in your reply of the 39th of a bounty Land
claim. Her application was for a Pension
for services rendered by her deceased husband
Robert Purtall. I find her case in the
Official report of your office under the
head of Suspended Claims

P.S. Please give me a statement of the specific dificulty
in her case as I may have to refer it to the Atty
Genl. of the U.S.
Yours Respectfully -
Robert A Cassin
Agent
Page 41

Baltimore April 21st 1855
DSir
Yours of the 20th is at hand I am at loss
to know how to proceed, in the case of Mrs Cathrine
Wistel formerly Purtle the forms requires the evidence
pf persons that knew that he did serve not that they
were personally with him while serving at this late
date then is not perhaps two living that service together
in the revolutionary war. In a former [illegible] from
you you aminted that Robert Purtle did serve nine
months in the 2d Maryland Regiment and that
Robert Purtle did marry Catherine Sitler when it
was shown that she was the widow of said Robert
Purtle the calim [claim] would be granted the affidavit
of Mrs Elizabeth Hill and John Edward Ferrall from
that line did served as alledge [alleged] and that the applicant
was his widow and the affidavit of Jno Nelson
a gentleman of high standing of this City proved
that he knew the parties that gave their affidavit
JE Fekel was in the Maryland line as a private in
the Revolutionary was in with line his name well affected
h never applied for a pension he never stood in need
of releif [relief] from the United States he did not serve along
side said Robert Purtle. Please let me know what
is wanting for I must confess that I am ignorant
in the matter. If it will have any weight in the matter
I will try to induce the Plot and feble [feeble] widow to
come before you and plead her claim
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
George W Bowen

L P Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 42

Baltimore August 13. 52
Sir,
Your has been received in regard to the
case of Catharine Whitler in applicant for a
pension for the services of her husband deceased -
Robert Purtle who was a Revolutionary soldier in the second
Regiment of Maryland. You say it must be established
by the testimony of comrades or old respectable
neighbours who had personal knowledge of his services
this would be difficult to obtain, but it seems
to me that the act entitled dated 29th July 1848
would be all sufficient in her case..

3.
In a case where the service of a deceased officer or soldier
is clearly proved by record or documentary evidence,
or the affidavit of a commissioned officer showing 
the grade and length of service of the deceased
the particulars in relation to the service are not required
to be set forth in the claimants declaration but -
she must swear in positive terms that she is
the widow of the person whose service is thus
posed. This has been done in her declaration
which I cannot comply with the law in 
full.
Respectfully you obt st
Robt A Cassin
Agent for claimant
Balti Md
Page 43

Washington June 1st. 1855.

Sir

In the case of Catherine Wistel
formerly the widow of Robert Purtle, I respectfully
ask that the same shall be reexamined
and I beg to call attention to this affidavits
of John E. Ferrile, and Elizabeth Hill; both
filed since the approval of the Hon Secty of the
decision of this office upon an appeal taken by George
W Bowers - I understand the objection to the 
allowance of this claim to be, as to the identity
of Robert Purtle with the soldier, who by
the Maryland records served 9 months in the
Revolutionary War and who the applicant Catherine
Westell claims to have been her husband.
The affiant John E Ferrile avens that he
knew Robert Purtle before and after the Revoluion,
that not only was it known and believed, that he
was a soldier in that war, but he has often
Page 44

heard Purtle state the fact, - and belonged to the
Maryland Line and this affiant is avouched for
by the officiating Justice as a man of respectability
and undoubted veracity - Now this man Purtle
died in the year 1802 long before the passage of
any law granting pensions for Revolutionary Service,
& consequently his statements made to Ferrile
as to his service, in the absence of all Sinester objects,
should be regarded as true, there being no
reason for his making a false statement -
Elizabeth Hill avers, that she knew Catharine 
Sitler as the wife of Robert Purtle,
and will recollects when he Purtle died at
Briscoe's in St Marys County Md; that soon
there after she - Mrs Purtle went to reside in the City of Baltimore;
and she knows the present applicant Catherine
Wistel to be the same person - the widow of
Robert Purtle who Ferrels [illegible], was the Soldier
of the Revolution - I would also beg to call
attention to the ovenments of two other affiants
Page 45

I Hannah F Firoved and Caroline Sitler in 
support of Ferreles statements that Purtle was
a soldier in the Maryland Line - They both state
that they well know Robert Purtle the husband
of the applicant, and that they have repeatedly
heard him say that he was a soldier in the Revy War -
The records of Maryland show that a
Robert Purtle served 9 months in 2nd Md Reft
the Widow of Robert Purtle claims a pension
as such, under the act of 29th July 1848 and
4 respectable and well avouched witnesses are
that the said Purtle was a soldier in the
Revolutionary war - the Rolls of Maryland
show [illegible] man of the name, and there
cannot be a doubt, he is the identical man.
Very respectfully
Your Obt Sert
HC Spalding
Atty

J.P. Waldo Esq
Comr of Pensions
Page 46

14 Oct, 1854,
Page 47

Baltimore Octr 12th 1854
DSir

The accompined [accompanied] is additional proof in
the pension claim of Mrs Cathrine Wistel formerly
Purtle. To Idemnify [indemnify] her as the Identical widow
of Robert Purtle who did serve in the Revolutionary
war Hopeing, [Hoping] Sir the accompianed [accompanied] evidence will
prove satisfactory and you will grant the old
widow a pension I will refer you to the proof
on file as to their marriage and to said Robert Purtle
services in the MD line and to the witnesses in the
case The last proof by four witnesses was sent Nov
11th 1853 Please give it your early attention

Very REspectfully
Your Obt Sert
George W Bowers

L P Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 48

Baltimore May 21st.
Sir
You will please address any communication
connected with the accompanying claim to
the undersigned

Very Respectfully your Obt St
Robert A Cassin
Agent
Baltimore

To Commisn. of Pensions
Washington DC
Page 49

Pension Office
August 10th/52
Sir:
The additional testimony submitted
by you in the case of Catharine Wistel, formerly
widow of Robert Purtle, is satisfactory to shew
that she was married to him prior to 1800, and
thus to bring her claim within the provisions of the
Act of July 29th 1848: but she is not in any way,
identified as the widow of the Soldier of that name,
whose service for 9 months in the 2d Maryland
Regiment, is embraced in the Certificate of the Register
of the Land Office of Maryland. It should be established
by the testimony of Comrades, or old and respectable
neighbors who had personal knowledge of
his service.
Very Respectfully,
Your obt Servt
F. F. C Triplett
Acting Commr.

Rob A. Cassin. Esq
Baltimore,
Maryland.
Page 50

PENSION OFFICE,
Augt: 17: 1852.

Sir: 
Your communication of the 13th inst. relative to the case
of Catharine Whitler, formerly widow
of Robert Purtell,
is received, and will be fully considered as soon as it can be reached
in its proper order.
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. E. HEATH,
Commissioner of Pensions.

[page torn here] Esq
[page torn here] [illegible]
[page torn here] [illegible]
Page 51

Baltimore April 14th 1855

DSir
Accompanied this is the affadavit [affidavit] of
John Edward Ferral as additional proof in the
pension claim of Mrs Cathrine Wistel formerly
Purtle widow of Robert Purtle deceased who was
a Revolutionary Soldier in the 2d Maryland
Regiment
Hoping Sir this will prove satisfactory
and you will grant the old and needy widow
a pension
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
George W Bowers

L.P. Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 52

Pension Office
Oct 10th 1854,

Sir,
The specific objections to the admission
of the case of Catharine Westel of thee have
been reported to you so frequently that certainly
a repetition of them is now needless. An appeal
from the decision of this office was taken by
Mr George W. Bowers and the Secretary of the
Interior has affirmed the decision. It cannot,
therefore, be reopened without filing additional evidence.
I am respectfully
Your Obt Servt
LP Waldo
Commissioner

R.A. Cassin Esq
Baltimore
Md.
Page 53

Pension Office
September 22d 1852

Sir,
At your request the claim of Catharine
Whistler of Md for the benefit of the
act of July 29th 1848, has been reexamined
The marriage prior to 1800 is admitted, but
it is not shown by any him of testimony
that her husband and the soldier admitted to
have performed 9 months service in the
2d Maryland Regiment, are identical.
This must be done by the testimony of
those who served with him, or by old men
who were in a position to know of his service.
My letter of August 10th 1852 to you, will fully
explain to you the condition of the claim
I am respectfully
Your Obt svt.
S. Cole
for Commr.

Robert A. Cassin Esq.
Baltimore
Md
Page 54


Balto Oct 6th 1849
Sir
I herewith transmit the declaration
of Catharine Wistle formerly Purtle and widow
of Robert Purtle, for a pension, for services
rendered by said Robert to the U.S. in the Revolution.
Also the certificate of the Register of the Maryland
land office. The necessary proof in the matter
will be filed soon. Please acknowledge the filing
I am Sir with respect
your obt sevt
Wm Alexander
No 51 Fayett St
IL Edwards Esqr
Commiss Pensions
Washington
D. C
Page 55

Baltimore March 7th 1855

DSir
Accompained [Accompanied] this the affidavit of [illegible]
[illegible] as additional proof in the pension case
of Mrs Cathrine Whistel formerly Purtle hoping
that it will prove satisfactory and you will grant
the old Lady a pension.
I Edward Farrel has giving the second
affidavit in which he was more particular in stating in
what regiment he served and [illegible] for he was personally
acquainted with Robert Purtle deceased who was a soldier
in the 2d Maryland Regiment in the Revolutionary War
it is at present in the hands of a Gentleman I will obtain
it in a few days and forward it if necessary
Please give this your early attention
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
George W. Bowers

L.P. Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 56

Baltimore
Dec 6th 1853
Geo. W. Bowers.
appeas in the case
of Mrs. Catharine Wistel
for a Pension
Respectfully referred to
the Comm of Pensions for
[illegible]
Dec8/63}
Decr/2th}
A.S.H. White
[illegible]ChfClk
Col. Niles
Dec 9/53
Mr Pritchett
Dec 7. 1853
Page 57

Baltimore Decr 6th 1853

DSir
Pardon my intrusion in calling
your attention to the suspended pension case
of Mrs Catharine Wistel formerly Purtle, some
years back she made a application about
three months ago I took a power of attorney
and examined the papers The service and
Marriage are satisfactory proven the idenity [identity]
that the Robert Purtle who served was the husband
of the applicant I have forwarded to the department
the affidavits of four respectable persons
who stated that she was the widow of the Identical
Robert Purtle who served they beleived [believed]that he was
the Identical Robert Purtle who served by always
heard him spoken of as such and have no doubt 
whatever but that he did serve Carolin Titter
aged 75 years one of the witness his deceased husband
did see him in said service and the often has
heard her husband Robert Purtle converse about said
war. As they require testimony of them who served with him
at this advance date it is a matter of impossibility to obtain
such evidence severally of your friends advise me to 
address you and request you to call the case and give
it your decision.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt St. George W Bowers
R.M. [illegible] Esqr
Page 58

Baltimore April 3d 1855

DSir
I wish to make known the cause of not sending the affidavit
wich [which] I have previously stated of J.E. Ferral. The first affidavit was
obtained through the kindness of Mr Wilson who personally knew
the parties and not being a Agent in the pension claims and
having no forms he omitted to name the Regiment in wich [which] the
said Robert Purtle served, a scond [second] affidavit being required I
addressed Charles Morgan the officiating Magistrate to take
a scond [second] desposition [deposition] wich [which] was obtained and Mr Morgan placed
it in the hands of Col Miles of this City for me on condition
that I pay for his services the sum of $20.00 when I first
called on Col Miles he was absent from this City and before
his return the Old Gentleman J.E. Ferral died and they
being aware of the fact this has taken advantage of a
poor old widow. I would sooner loose the claim than
to encourage such imposition
Sir If you would but reexamine
the papers in the pension claim referred to of Mrs
Cathrine Wistel formerly Purtle and the evidence combined
is not sufficient to support the claim I will then
abide by your decision
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
George W Bowers

LP. Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 59

Baltimore October 29th 1853
DSir
I have the honour to present you the
required [illegible] of the suspended pension case
of Mrs Catharine Wistel formerly Purtle. she made
the application in 1848 or 49 and refers to her
declaration for the proper of services some months
back it was placed under the act of 1848 her
marriage certificate also accompanied her papers
wich [which] is on file. Hoping Sir the accompanied
[illegible], will prove satisfactory to establish
her claim and enable her to obtain her 
pension.
Very Respectfully
Your Obedient St
George W Bowers
LP Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 60

Baltio: January 3d 53.

Sir.
I would respectfully ask what 
decision has been had in the case of
Catharine Whistler for Revolutionary
pension the additional has been filed
at my request by Attorney Nelson of this
City by attending to this you will greatly
oblige.
Your Obt Servant
Robert A Cassin.
Robert Purtel was the husband of said Catharine
of he was in the Second Maryland
Regiment.

Commissioner Heath
Pension Dept.
Washington
Page 61

March 3d 1853
36, Balto, Md
Feby 22' 1853,
Robt A. Cassin
Rel to claim of Cath
Whister, Widow of
Robt Purtel

May

Referred to the Commissioner
of Pensions for
attention & answer
Dept 2
Feby 28/53

Cleay

Recd. Feb. 23. 1853,
Page 62

Balto Feby: 22d/53

This being the aniversary [anniversary] of the greatest of men
that ever lived I dedicate it to the cause of
as very aged helpless woman whose case you
have on file at your Department. it is the widow
of Robert Purtel of the 2d Maryland Regiment of
the Revolution her claim has been with you nearly
a year. the additional evidence being filed since
I last heard from you be pleased to give me some
information that I may communicate the same to the applicant
Catharine Whistler the widdow [widow]who is now
tollering and in need of help to sustain natures
wants the claim is just and I do not hesitate to
believe you will no longer delay justice when it is
so much needed and merited. By attending
to this you may do an act of justice and smooth
the few remaining days of a poor and aged [illegible]
& gratify a number of whigs in the bargain.
Yours my Respectfully
Robt A Cassin
Agent for Claimant

Secy Department of the
Interior
Washington DC.
Page 63

Baltimore Novr 17th 1853

DSir
I have the honour to present you the
affidavit of Mrs Caroline Sitter in the case 
of Mrs Catharine Wistel formerly Purtle for 
pension. I have giving the best positive evidence
that I can obtain. The said Robert Purtle
services and death is of no [illegible] date it
is difficult to obtain the evidence of those
who are in possession of the facts. the former
affidavits that I have sent you in the case
were giving and signed by persons of respectability
Jacob Smith Esqr a aged and respected merchant
of this City has been personally acquainted with
Mrs Catharine Wistel formerly Purtle over fifty
years. Mrs Caroline Sitler a Sister in law is a aged
and much respected Lady her deceased husband
was in possession of the facts of the service of said Robert
Purtle by being witness to the same.
Hoping Sir I have giving the required evidence
and will grant the Old Lady her pension
Very Respectfully
Your Obt. St
George W Bowers
LP Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 64

Washington, Decr 20th 1852
Sir,
We herewith enclose additional
evidence in the case of
Catharine Whistler, formerly widow of
Robert, Maryland, Act 7th July
1838.

Very respectfully
Evans & Fant

James E Heath, Esqr
Com of Pensions
Page 65

Baltimore Sept: 28. 1852.
Gentlemen,
I herewith enclose two letters and
Power of Atty in relation to Pensions, (Revolutionary)
Act of 1848. Everything has been furnished
to substantiate the claim, yet the identity
seems to be wanting. You will please
examine the papers in the case and
give us your news upon the matter.
We can give $20 fee, that is one third
of what we get from the original
agent - Be pleased to report as soon
as possible -
Very Respectfully
truly yours
Wm B & In L Nelson
62 West Fayette St

[illegible] Evans & Fant,
Soliciters 
Washington
D.C.
Page 66

Baltimore Novr 16th 1852
DSir-
On the 2d ult I recived [received] a comunication [communication]
from you in the case of Cathrine Wistel formerly
Purtle refering [referring] me to Mayo & Moulton's edition
of the Pension law I have not the edition and
find it impossible to obtain it in this City
The accompanied affidavit will show why the
last important evidence was not obtained before
the appeal was asked in the case. Hoping Sir
this will proof satisfactory and you will open
the case and grant the old widow a pension
as she is in needy circumstances.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Sert
George W Bowers

Le P Waldo Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 67

State of Maryland
Baltimore City

Be it remembered that on this Sixth day
of March eighteen hundred and Fifty five personally
appeared before me the subscriber a Justice of the
peace in and for the City & State aforsaid [aforesaid]Peregrine
T Wilson aged fifty nine years who being duly Sworn
according to law declares and says that he is a resident
of the city of Baltimore and his resided therein for
a number of years past, but was formerly a resident of
St Marys County, and was aquainted [acquainted] with almost all
the old people of that county and is also well acquainted 
with the widow Cathrine Wistel now living in Franklin
St Baltimore, and from the frequent conversations
her has had with Mrs Wistel here, and also with J. Edward
Jacob, Mrs Elizabeth Hill & other aged persons of St Marys
County, that he believes Cathrine Wistel formerly Cathrine
Purtle was the Identical wife of Robert Purtle and that
Robert Purtle was the Identical Robert Purtle that Inlisted [Enlisted]
in Revolutionary war & was in Second Maryland
Regiment in 1778 and the Robert Purtle who
served in the Revolution war the Identical Robert
Purtle who maried [married] Catharine Sitler and worked
on the House of Mr Jno Briscoe and died in year
of 1802 and he [illegible] he gives this affidavit
for the soul purpose of aiding Cathrine Wistel
in getting a pention [pension]
[signature illegible]
Witness
Isaac Cook
Sworn to and subscribed on the day & year above
I hereby certify Peregrine T Wilson is a gentleman
in whose varasity [veracity] entire confidence may be
reposed
Isaac Cook
Justice of the peace in
and for the city of Baltimore
Page 68

State of Maryland
Superior Court of Baltimore City
I Hereby Certify that Isaac Cook Eqr
before whom the foregoing affidavit were made was at the time of so
doing a Justice of the peace in and for the City of Baltimore and
State of Maryland duly sworn and commissioned duly Authorised
by law to administer Oaths for general purposes.
In Testimony whereof I hereto set my hand
and affix the seal of the Superior Court of
Baltimore City this Seventh day of March AD. 1855
Edwd Dowling
Clerk of the Superor [Superior] Court of Baltimore City.
Page 69

State of Maryland}
City of Baltimore}

On this 16th day of Nov - Eighteen
hundred and fifty four before me the subscriber a Justice
of the peace in and for the City and State aforesaid
personally appeared George W. Bowers who made oath in
due form of law declares that he did not know when
he appeald for the decision of the Secretary in the case
of Mrs Cathrine Wistel formerly Purtle that the last
two witnesses sent as additional proof could be obtained Mr PT Wilson of this City formerly of St Marys Co and
acquainted with the said widow while on a visit
to St Marys Co he obtained the affidavits of two
aged and Respectable persons who were personally
acquainted with Robert Purtle deceased who was
a Revolutionary Soldier and his wife Cathrine Purtle
now Cathrine Wistel
George W Bowers [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal written insede]
Sworn to and subscribed before me
on the day and year above written
Robert Gardiner
Justice of the Peace

I Certify that the above statement is correct
in every piticulars [particulars]
PT Wilson
No 188 Hanover St Baltimore City
Md
Page 70

State of Maryland
Superior Court of Baltimore City
I Hereby Certify that Robert Gardner Esq
before whom the foregoing affidavit were made was at the
time of so doing a Justice of the peace in and for the City
of Baltimore and State of Maryland duly sworn and
commissioned duly Authorised by law to administer
Oaths for general purposes
In Testimony Whereof I have hereto 
set my hand and affix the seal
of the Superior Court of Baltimore City
this 16 day of November AD 185
Edwd Dowling
Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City
Page 71

State of Maryland
St Marys County to wit
Be it remembered
[illegible] Sixth day of October Eighteen Hundred
and fifty four, before me the subscriber a Justice
of the peace in and for the state & county aforesaid
personally appeared Elizabeth Hill aged Seventy
three years Resident of St Marys County [illegible]
to the [illegible] witness in whose statement
full faith and credit should be given and who
being duly sworn according to law, declares she
is a resident of St Marys County Maryland and
were well aquainted [acquainted] with Cathrine Purtle wife
of Robert Purtle a carpenter who lived on the
land and worked for Mr Jno Brisco and died while
working at said Briscos I was there whilst he Purtle
was a corps in the house I was there frequently after
his [illegible] and some time in the fall of the
[illegible] years She Cathrine Purtle left for the City
of Baltimore when I have since heard she
married a man by the name of Wistel in the 
City of Baltimore [illegible] Robert Purtle husband 
of Cathrine Purtle died some time in the
winter of 1802 and over time had left
for Baltimore. I further swear 
I have no interest in the case but give this
affidavit for the Benefit of Mrs Catherine Wistel
formerly Cathrine Purtle to aid her in her effort to
obtain a pension to which I believe she is
justly entitled to. -
Elizabeth X ^her mark^ Hill [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal inscribed inside]
Lest Charles Morgan
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year
above written
Charles Morgan JP.
Page 72

State of Maryland
St Marys County to wit
I hereby certify that Charles Morgan gentleman
before whom the above affidavit appears to have been 
taken and signed was at the time of the taking 
and signing thereof & still is one of the Justices
of the peace of the State of Maryland in & for
Saint Marys County aforesaid duly elected
commissioned & qualified & that to all whose
acts, as such, due faith & credit are & ought to
be given as well in courts of Justice, as thereout

In testimony whereof I hereunto
set my hand and applied the seal
of my office this 16th day of October
1854
James S Blakistone Clk
of the circuit court for St
Marys County
Page 73

(page illegible)
Page 74

State of Maryland
St Marys County Court
I hereby certify that Charles Morgan
gentleman before whom the above affidavit
appears to have been taken and signed was at
the time of the taking and signing thereof and
still is one of the Justices of the peace of the
State of Maryland in & for St Marys County
aforesaid duly elected commissioned and
qualified & that to all whose acts as such
due faith & credit are & ought be given
as well in courts of Justice as thereout

In testimony whereof I hereunto
set my hand & affix the seal
of this office this 10th day of
October on the year eighteen 
hundred & fifty four
James S Blakestone Clk
circuit court for St Marys
County
Page 75

State of Maryland St Marys County. To. Wit.
On this fifteenth day of December Eighteen hundred
and fifty four before me the Subscriber a Justice
of the peace in and for the county and State aforesaid
Personally appeared John Edward Ferrell aged 106 years [illegible]
being duly Sworn declairs [declares]That he was personally
acquainted with Robert Purtle and his wife Catharine.
I knew the Said Robert Purtle before and after the
Revolutionary War and believe that he was a private
in the 2nd Maryland Regiment from the facts that he
was reported as such and have, heard him Say that
he Served in the Said regiment about 9 months he
entered the Service in the year of 1778 that the Said
Robert Purtle died in St Marys County in the year
1802 Sudenly while at work on Jack Briscos
house, and his widow left his county. I heard She
intermaried with a man named Wistel. I believe
that the Said Catharine Wistel who has applied
for a pension who was formerly the widow of Robert
Purtle who was a Revolutionary Soldier in the 
2nd Maryland Regiment. I further swear I have
no Interest in this matter but give my affidavit
to aid Mrs Catharine Wistel formerly Purtel
in her efforts to obtain a pension to which I believe
She is entitled to 
John Edward X ^his mark^ Ferrell [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal written inside]
Sworn and Subscribed to on the day and year above
written and I certify John Edward Ferrell is a
person in whose veracity entire confidence
may be reposed
Charles Morgan. Justice of the peace
Page 76

State of Maryland
Saint Marys County to wit
I hereby certify that 
Charles Morgan gentleman before whom
the above affidavit appears to have been taken
and signed was at the time of the taking and
Signing thereof and still is one of the Justices
of the peace of the State of Maryland in
and for Saint Marys County aforesaid, duly
elected commissioned and qualified and
that in all whose acts as such due faith and
credit are and ought to be given as well
in Courts of Justice, as thereout & I believe his
Signature to be genuine In Testimony whereof I 
hereunto set my hand
and affixed the seal of my
office this 27th day of Decr
1854
James S. Blakistone
Clerk of the Ct Ct for St Marys Co.
Page 77

[top line is cut off and not completely legible]
hand and affix the seal of the Superior
Court of Baltimore City this 
day of 28th AD. 1853
Edwd Dowling
Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City

[vertically on the left edge of this page, follows]
George W Bowers
Agent
Baltimore
Page 78

(Power of Attorney.)
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, That I
Catharine Wistel formerly Purtle of Baltimore City
in the State of Maryland, for divers good causes and considerations, me hereunto moving,
having made, ordained, authorized, nominated, constituted and appointed, and by these
presents do make, ordain, authorize, nominate, constitute and appoint
George W. Bowers of the City of Baltimore
my true and lawful Attorney, for me and in my name, place and stead, to ask
receive and recipt [receipt] for such pensions arrears of
pensions or any amount wich [which] may be due me
as the widow of Robert Purtle of Baltimore City who was a private in the Revolutionary war
I made a application for a pension in 1848 or 1849
I do hereby revoke all former power or agency
and to do all other lawful acts and things whatsoever, concerning the premises, as fully,
and in every respect, as I myself, might or could do were I personally present at the doing
thereof; and Attorneys, one or more under him for the purposed aforesaid to make, and
again at his pleasure to revoke; hereby ratifying, allowing and confirming, whatsoever my
said Attorney shall in my name lawfully do, or cause to be done, in and about the premises,
by virtue of these  presents.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this
Twenty seventh day of October in the year of our Lord one
thousand eight hundred fifty three
Catherine X ^her mark^ Westel
formerly Catherine Purtle [the word SEAL surrounded by a rectangle of asterisks (*)]

Signed, Sealed and Delivered
in the presence of }
Maurice Bush

to wit:
On the Twenty seventh day of October 1853 before me, the
subscriber, a Justice of the Peace for the City of Baltimore, personally appeared
Jacob Smith and made oath according law, that
he saw Catharine Wistel formerly Purtle sign, seal and deliver the above
Letter of Attorney as her act and deed.
Sworn before Maruice Bushes
Page 79

State of Maryland
Superior Court of Baltimore City
I Hereby Certify that Maurice Bushe Esqr
before whom the foregoing power of Attorney and affidavit
was made was at the time of so doing a Justice of the peace
in and for the City of Baltimore and State of Maryland
duly commissioned and sworn duly Authorised by
law to administer Oaths for general purposed
In Testimony Whereof I hereto set my
hand and affix the seal of the Superior
Court of Baltimore City this
day of 28th AD. 1853
Edwd Dowling
Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City

[vertically on bottom left of this page, follows]
George W Bowers
Agent 
Baltimore
Page 80

Mrs Catharine Wistel
formerly Purtle
for Pension

No,, 5.

George W Bowers
Agent
Baltimore
MD
Page 81

State of Maryland}
City of Baltimore}

On this 27th day of October Eighteen hundred and
fifty three before me a Justice of the peace in and for the City and
State aforesaid personally appeared Jacob Smith aged
67 years and David Firoved aged 57 years
known to me as creditable persons in whose Statement full faith
and credit should be giving and who being duly sworn according
to law declares that they are residents of Baltimore City, MD.
and were well acquainted with Robert Purtle and Catharine
Sitler who formerly lived in said City and State that they
were married in Baltimore City on 4th of Augt 1796 and there parties were
reputed to be man and wife a fact wich [which] was never called in
question, and beleived [believed] to have been married on the day and year above writtin [written]
Robert Purtle was reported to have been a Soldier in the
Revolutionary war in the Maryland line and have no doubt
whatever but that he was the Identical Robert Purtle who served
from the facts that thay have heard him at repeatedly stated that he had
served and have heard many old residents here and in adjacent
Countys speak of him who had known him as a Revolutionary
Soldier and that Robert Purtle herein named is the Identical Robert
Purtle who was the husband of Catharine Wistel formerly Purtle.
and who is now applying for a pension. They further swear thay have
no interest whatever in the case but give this affidavits for the
benifit of Mrs Catharine Wistel formerly widow of Robert Purtle
to aid her in her efforts to obtain a pension to wich [which] there witnesses
beleives [believes] she is entitled to 
Jacob Smith [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal written inside]
David Firoved [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal written inside]

Sworn to and subscribed the day and year above writtin [written] and I certify
that I well know Jacob Smith and David Firoved
that they are creditable witnesses in whose statement entire confidence
may be reposed Maurice Bushe
Justice of the Peace
Page 82

State of Maryland
Superior Court of Baltimore City
I Hereby Certify that Maurice Bushe Esquire
before whom the foregoing affidavits were made was at the
time of so doing a Justice of the peace in and for the City
of Baltimore and State of Maryland duly commissioned 
and sworn and duly Authorised by law to administer
Oaths for general purposes
In Testimony Whereof I hereto set
my hand and affix the seal of
the Superior Court of Baltimore
City this 28th day of October AD. 1853

Edwd Dowling
Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City
Page 83

Mrs Catharine Wistel
formerly Purtle
for Pension

George W Bowers
Agent 
Baltimore
Page 84

State of Maryland
City of Baltimore}

On this 27th day of October Eighteen hundred and fifty
three before me a Justice of the peace in and for the City and State
aforesaid personally appeared Hannah Firoved aged 68 years
and Caroline Sitler aged 75 years residents of Baltimore
City known to me as creditable persons in whose statement full faith
and credit should be giving and who being duly sworn according to law
declares that thay [they] were well acquainted with Robert Purtle and Catharine
Sitler who formerly lived in said City and State that thay [they] were reported
and believed to have been married in the City of Baltimore on the 4th
day of August 1796 and there parties were reputed to be man and wife
a fact wich [which] was never called in question.
Robert Purtle was reported and believed to have been a Soldier in the 
Revolutionary war in the Maryland line and have no doubt whatever
but he was the Identical Robert Purtle who served from the facts
that thay [they] have heard him repeatedly state that he had served and have
heard many old residents here and in adjacent Countys [Counties]speak of him who
had known him as a Revolutionary Soldier and that Robert Purtle
herein named is the Identical Robert Purtle who was the husband
Catharine Purtle formerly Sitler and at present Wistel and 
who is now applying for a pension. Thay [They] further swear thay [they] have
no interest whatever in the case but give this affidavits for the 
benifit [benefit] of Mrs Catharine Wistel formerly Widow of Robert
Purtle to aid her in her efforts to obtain a pension to wich [which]
these witnesses believes she is entitled to 
Hannah Firoved [Seal]
Caroline X ^her mark^ Sitler [seal]
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year above writtin [written] and I
certify that I well know Hannah Firoved and Caroline Sitler
that thay [they] are creditable witnesses in whose statement entire
confidence may be reposed
Page 85

State of Maryland
Superior Court of Baltimore CityI Hereby Certify that Maurice Bushe Esqr
before whom the foregoing affidavits were made was at the
time of so doing a Justice of the peace in and for the city of
Baltimore and State of Maryland duly commissioned
and sworn duly Authorised [Authorized] by law to administer Oaths
for general purposes
In Testimony Whereof I hereto set
my hand and affix the seal of 
the Superior Court of Baltimore
City this 28th day of October AD 1853
Edwd Dowling
Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City
Page 86

No 1122
Catharine Wistel,
Wid of
Robert Purtle
chco
July 29. 1848
No.. 2.

Robert A. Cassin
Baltimore 
Md
Page 87

State of Maryland.}
City of Baltimore}

On this Thirteenth day of April in the year of our
Lord, one thousand eight hundred and fifty two, personally
appeared, before the Superior Court of Baltimore City
Catharine Whistler a resident of Baltimore City, in Baltimore
County, aged eighty eight. years who being
duly sworn according to law doth on her Oath make
the following declaration in order to obtain the 
benefit of the provisions made by the Act of Congress
passed on the twenty ninth day of July in the year
Eighteen hundred and forty eight, that She is the Widow
of Robert Purtel, who was a private in the second
Maryland Regiment. She further declares that She
was married to the said Robert Purtel on the fourth
day of August in the year seventeen hundred
and ninety six. that her husband the aforesaid
Robert Purtel died on the twelfth day of March
in the year Eighteen hundred and One -
that she was not married to him prior to his leaving
the Service, but the marriage took place previous
to the second day of January in the year eighteen 
hundred viz at the time above stated. She
further swears that she is now a widow and that
she has never before made any application for
a pension. 
Catharine X ^her mark^ Whistler
Page 88

Sworn to and subscribed before me, on the
day and year first above written. Wm Frick

State of Maryland
Baltimore City Sct

I Edward Dowling Clerk of the Superior
Court of Baltimore City do hereby certify that the Honorable
William Frick before whom the aforegoing affidavit was 
made and who has thereto subscribed his name was at the
time of so doing Judge of the Superior Court of
Baltimore City duly elected Commissioned & qualified
In Testimony whereof I hereto
set my hand and affix the
seal of said Court this 21st
day of May AD 1832
Edwd Dowling Clk
Page 89

Land Office of Maryland
Annapolis Apl. 17 1852

I hereby certify that it appears by the muster
Rolls of the Revolution remaining in this office
that Robert Purtle enlisted as a private 
in the Second Maryland Regiment on the
25th May 1778. & that it appears by an Entry
opposite his name, that he was discharged
time out. -
Witness my hand & the seal of
the Land Office of Maryland
this day & year above 
written.
J. Jurray
Commr of the L Off
Page 90

State of Maryland
City of Baltimore

Know all men by these presents that I Catharine Whistler of the State of Maryland, do hereby [un]erocably make constitute and appoint David Feroved of Baltimore City, my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name and for my benefit to demand and receive from the United States through the Secretary of the Department of the Interior the Pension to which I may be entitled as the widow of Robert Purtel deceased,, as set forth in the foregoing declaration hereby, revoking, revoking and countermanding any other power of attorney or authority, that I may have given heretofore to any person, or persons for the specified purposes. In testimony whereof I have herewith set my hand seal this twentieth day of May one thousand eight hundred and fifty two.
              her
Catherine X Whistler     Seal
               mark

Signed Sealed Delivered 
in the presence of V.H. Kalkman
Robt A Cassi
Page 91

On this seventeeth day of May 1852 personally appeared before me V.H. Kalkman duly authorized to take acknowledgements in and for the city and state aforesaid _______ Catherine Whistler and acknowledge the above power of attorney, to be her free act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned.

V.H. Kalkman

State Maryland
Baltimore City, Sct.
I hereby certify that V.H. Kalkman Esquire before whom the annexed acknowledgement was made and who has thereto subscribed his name was at the time of so doing a Justice of the Peace of the State of Maryland, in and for the City of Baltimore, duly commissioned and sworn.

In Testimony Whereof I hereto set my hand and affix the seal of the Superior Court of Baltimore City, this 21st day of May A.D. 1852
Edward Dowling 
Clerk of he Superior Court of Baltimore City
Page 92

Baltimore June 23 1856
DSir
The bounty land claim under the Act
of March 3d 1855 of Mrs Cathrine Wistel widow
of Robert Purtle No 232.721.fined Januy 14th 1856
of Anna M Lightner widow of John Lightner
No 243.662 filed April 29 1856 as these two
old Ladies are each near 100 years old and
widow of Revolutionary Soldiers and in
needy circumstances
I call your attention 
and pray that you will make them 
special as the delay of your Office of ten
deprive them of the benifet [benefit] of this act
They are pensioners at $30 per annum
Hopeing [Hoping]Sir you will give thisYour favourable consideration
Very Respectfully
Yo Obt Servt
George W Bowers

J Minot Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 93

Additional evidence
Catharine Whistler
formerly widow
of Robert Purtle
Maryland
Act 7. July 1838.
No,, 4.
filed 20th Dec 1852

Evans & Fant
Washington City
Page 94

State of Maryland
Baltimore City To wit: -

On this fifteenth day of December in the year of our Lord, Eighteen
Hundred and fifty two, personally appeared before
me a Justice of the Peace, in and for the city and
State aforesaid Caroline Sitler aged seventy three
years a resident of Baltimore City in the State of 
Maryland, who being duly sworn according to
Law, declares "that she knew Robert Purtle
to be the husband of Catherine Whistler and that 
he was a Soldier in the Revolutionary War and was 
wounded in the said war. She further states that
her reasons for knowing the above are that she, the
declarant, lived in St Mary's County Maryland
where said Robert Purtle and Catherine Whistler lived
together as man and wife and were so considered
and that the fact of their marriage was never doubted
or questioned. - that she has frequently heard
Robert Purtle, during his lifetime, speak of his
wound and of his engagements in the Revolutionary
War - She further declares that Catherine Whistler
now living in Baltimore City Maryland, is the
widow of Robert Purtle, deceased - She also swears
that she has no interest whatever in the matter
of Catherine Whistler, depending before the United
States Government.
Witness. Edward T Barry
" Jno S Nelson
Caroline X ^her mark^ Sitler [hand drawn cloud with the word Seal inscribed inside]

Subscribed and sworn before me on this fifteenth
day of December in the year of our Lord
one thousand, Eight Hundred and fifty two, and
I hereby certify that Mrs Caroline Sitler is entitled
to full faith and credit. 
Edward T Barry 
Justice of the Peace
in and for Baltimore City
Page 95

I, Edward Dowling, Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City, in the State of Maryland, do hereby  certify, that Edward T  {Basnz} before whom the aforegoing declaration was executed was at the date by the same a Justice of the Peace, of the State of Maryland, in and for the City of Baltimore, { } authorized by law to administer oaths and that his signature thereto attached is his genuine signature.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal on this fifteenth day of December A.D. 1852

Edward Dowling Clerk of the Superior Court of Baltimore City