Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W 9241, for Benjamin Prettyman, Delaware
Page 1

Del.
Prettyman, Benjamin W9241
Prettyman, Elizabeth
Page 2

(8-1776)
Service Number
Del. Prettyman, Benjamin W9241
Prettyman, Elizabeth
Page 3

6731
Elizabeth Prettyman
of Benjamin
Delaware
record of marriage
in book, files in Mr. Edwards room
May 16, 1840
Hon. J Clayton
Senate US
Page 4

State of Delaware

On this eighteenth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-nine, personally appeared before Henry Johns Junior, Esquire, Chancellor of the State of Delaware, in open court, Elizabeth Prettyman, a resident of Indian River Hundred, in the County of Sussex, in the said State of Delaware, aged eighty-one years and upwards who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, in her oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the Act of Congress, passed July 7, 1838 entitled "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows." That she is the widow of Benjamin Prettyman, a private, in a volunteer company in the war of the Revolution; that he entered the service sometime in the year 1777, and left sometime in the year 1779---that Captain William Perry was the commanding officer of the said Company--that he resided  in Sussex County aforesaid in the said State of Delaware, when he entered the service---that he was a volunteer--was in no battle--that he never left the said State of Delaware; that he served more than two years:--that the said Benjamin Prettyman died the 27th day of June A.D. 1824. She further declares that she was married to the said Benjamin Prettyman on the twenty sixth day of May in the year Seventeen hundred and eighty two, that her husband the aforesaid Benjamin Prettyman died as aforesaid on the twenty seventh day of June in the year eighteen hundred and twenty-four---that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seventeen hundred and ninety-four viz. at the time above stated.

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before
               her
Elizabeth  x  Prettyman
            mark

State of Delaware
Sussex County     I certify that the above affidavit was sworn and subscribed to in open court the day and year above written before me. In testimony whereof I have here unto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware in and for Sussex County at George Town the 18th January 1840.
                     Edw L. Wells Reg.& C.C.
Page 5

The State of Delaware
Sussex County

    On this seventh day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-nine, before the subscriber, an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the State of Delaware, residing in Sussex County aforesaid, personally appeared William Arnell, a resident of the town of Lewes in the County of Sussex and the State of Delaware, aforesaid, aged eighty-one years, ten months and twenty-four days, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath depose and say that he, this deponent, was personally well acquainted with Benjamin Prettyman, in the lifetime of the said Benjamin, from the beginning of the year seventeen hundred and seventy seven, up to the time of the decease of the said Benjamin, that the said Benjamin Prettyman was a soldier in the war of the Revolution; that he entered the service as a private, in the year seventeen hundred and seventy-seven, in a Company commanded by Captain William Perry, and served, as this deponent distinctly recalleth one year; that the said Company was stationed at Lewes, aforesaid, for the defense  thereof and of the neighboring coast and country under the crown of Congress: that William Perry was the Captain, a commanding officer, John Wesley was the  first Lieutenant, John Hazzard was the second Lieutenant, and William Hall was the ensign of said Company; that the said Benjamin Prettyman was, at the end of the year aforesaid regularly discharged from his said term of service by the said Captain William Perry: and this deponent further says that at the time of the said Benjamin's service he, this said Benjamin, was a single, a unmarried man: that this deponent, in the year seventeen hundred and eighty-four, as well as this deponent can recollect, attended the funeral of a neighbor's child, in the neighborhood of the said Benjamin, and that he, the said Benjamin, was then a married man-that he married Elizabeth Brereton, who has survived him, as his widow, and is yet living; that this deponent was married in the year seventeen hundred
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and eighty-six, and the said Benjamin and Elizabeth were married before that time/

Sworn and subscribed in the day and year above written.           
                              William Arnell

Before 
C. S. Layden. A.J.
Page 7

State of Delaware 
     Sussex County 
         
             On this seventh day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-nine before the subscriber an associate Judge if the State of Delaware, residing in Sussex County, aforesaid, personally appeared Sarah Rodney, wife of the Honorable Daniel Rodney, a resident of Lewes, in the County of Sussex and State of Delaware, aforesaid, aged seventy-two years, one month and two days, who being first duly affirmed, according to Law, doth, on her affirmation, say that she, this applicant was personally acquainted with Benjamin Prettyman in his lifetime, from about the year seventeen hundred and seventy-six, up to the time of the said Benjamin's decease: that he, the said Benjamin Prettyman, was a soldier in the war of Revolution; that he entered the service as a private, in the Company commanded by Captain William Perry, in the year seventeen hundred and seventy-seven; that this affirmant has often seen the said Benjamin Prettyman parading in the ranks of said Company during the year aforesaid one year: that this said Company was raised by order of Congress, and was stationed at Lewes, aforesaid, for the defense thereof and of the adjacent Court and Country: that the officers of said Company were William Perry, Captain, John Wesley, first Lieutenant, John Hazzard, second Lieutenant, and William Hall ensign this affirmant further says she believes the said Benjamin  Prettyman served two years under Captain Perry, and in his Company, and she distinctly remembered seeing the said Benjamin in the ranks of said Company when it was finally discharged: that the said Benjamin was a single or unmarried man, during his service aforesaid, that he was afterwards married to Elizabeth Brereton, with whom this affirmant was well acquainted before her marriage with said Benjamin, that the said Benjamin and Elizabeth were married, sometime in, or about the year seventeen hundred and eighty-two, that this deponent recollects distinctly that they were married prior to the year seventeen hundred and ninety-four. That this said Elizabeth has survived the said Benjamin and is yet living a widow of the said Benjamin.
Affirmed and subscribed the day and year above written.

Before C.S. Layton. A.J.          Sarah Rodney
Page 8

The State of Delaware
           Sussex County

                             Be it remembered that, I, Caleb S. Layton, an associate Judge of the State of Delaware, residing in Sussex County, do hereby certify, that I am personally acquainted with William Arnell, and Mrs. Sarah Rodney, wife of the Honourable Daniel Rodney, both residents of the town of Lewes, in the said state, who have made oath and affirmation, as aforesaid: that they are persons of fair standing and character, and unimpeachable credit, and that all their statements and declarations are exhibited for credit.
Given under my hand, at the County aforesaid, the Seventh day if October, in the year of our Lord on thousand eight hundred and thirty-nine.

                  C. S. Layton

   It may perhaps be improper -to remark that when June called on in July last, to take depositions of witnesses, in the affirmation of Mrs. Prettyman, preparatory to her application in the War Department, Aaron Marshall, Lew. stated that he distinctly recollected Mr. Benjamin Prettyman served two years in Captain William Perry's Company, to wit in the years 1778 and 1779. Aaron Marshall has since died, and Mrs. Prettyman has lost the benefit of his testimony. The refined, I suppose to 1778 or 1779 as the period when the service was completed, and it appears the said company was mustered into service in 1777 and discharged in 1779, making two years.

    October 7th,1839     C.S. Layton
Page 9

The State of Delaware
     Sussex County p.3

        Be it remembered, that on the fourteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty, before the Subscriber an associate Judge of the State of Delaware, residing in Sussex County, personally came Isaac Waples of Indian River hundred, in Said County, farmer, aged sixty-two years and ten months, and sixteen days, and being solemnly sworn on the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God, deposeth- and saith, that he, this deponent, was personally and intimately acquainted with Benjamin Prettyman, Esquire, late of Indian River Hundred, aforesaid, in the County aforesaid, deceased, in the lifetime of the said Benjamin: that the said Benjamin Prettyman was reputed to have been a  soldier of the Revolutionary War, but as to the term, or more of service, this deponent knows nothing personally: that the said Benjamin lived and died within a mile and a half of this deponent: that the said Benjamin Prettyman died at his residence aforesaid, in the summer of Eighteen hundred and twenty-four; sometime in the month of June of that year, but the precise day is not recollected by this deponent: that this deponent was one of the appraisers, appointed by the Registrar for the Probate of Wills, and granting letters of administration, in and for Sussex County, aforesaid. In appraise the personal Estate of the said Benjamin Prettyman, deceased, and further this deponent saith not.
Sworn and subscribed on the day and year first above written before me, 

C.S. Layton A.J.                     Isaac Waples
Page 10

Sussex County
State of Delaware S.S.

 I George R. Fisher, Prothonotary of the Superior Court of the State of , in and for Sussex County, aforesaid, do hereby certify that the foregoing written C. S. Layton was at the foregoing date and now is an associate Judge of the Superior Court of the State of Delaware, residing in Sussex County aforesaid, duly Commissioned, sworn, and accredited, and that full faith and credit are due and ought to be given to all his official act, as well in points of law and Equity as thereout, and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his, is his usual signature, and I believe the same to be in his own Proper handwriting. In Testimony whereof I have here unto set my hand and affixed the Seal of my office, at Georgetown, the eighteenth day of January Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred forty.

                         George R. Fisher Pro

State of Delaware
   Sussex County
                               Be it remembered that I, Caleb S. Layton, associate Judge of the State of Delaware, residing in Sussex County, aforesaid, do herby certify that I am personally acquainted with the within named Isaac Waples, who made and subscribed the within affidavit before me, and in my presence, that the name of Isaac Waple, is in his, the said Isaac's own proper handwriting: and that the said Isaac Waples, is esteemed, taken, and reputed to be a man of probity and veracity: and that full faith and credit are due, and should be given for this same affidavit of the said Isaac Waples. Given under may hand, at the county aforesaid this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty.

                                   C.S. Layton

State of Delaware
Sussex County   SS
                        I George R. Fisher Prothonotary of the Superior Court of the State of Delaware in and for Sussex County, do hereby certify, that the above written Ca. S. Layton was at the date above written and now is, an associate Judge of the State of Delaware, residing in Sussex County aforesaid, duly commissioned, sworn and (continued up)
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Accredited, and that full faith and credit are due and
ought to be given to all his official acts, as well in Courts
of law and equity, as the court, and that the signature
above purporting to be his, is his usual signature, and I
believe it to be in his own proper hand writing. In Testimony
whereof, I have hereunto set my
hand and affixed the Seal of the
said Court, at Georgetown, the eighth
day of May in the year of our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and
forty
George R. Fisher Pro-
Page 12

Rev. and 1812
Wars Section
X03/Hmm

January 23, 1930
Mr. R. P. Prettyman
12281/2 North Central Avenue
Glendale,California.

Dear Sir:

I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension
claim W. 9241, it appears that Benjamin Prettyman, while a
resident of Sussex County, Delaware, enlisted sometime in 1777 and
served one or two years as a private in Captain William Peery's
Delaware Company. (handwritten) for verification of spelling of this name (Peery) see case of Uru, Arnel S. 35767)

He be married May 26, 1782 Elizabeth Brereton.

Benjamin Prettyman died June 27, 1824. 

His widow, Elizabeth, was allowed pension on her application
executed September 18, 1839, at which time she was eighty-one
years of age and was a resident of Indian River Hundred, Sussex
County, Delaware.

She died July 22, 1850.

There are no data relative to children.

This is the history of the only soldier named Benjamin
Prettyman that is found on the Revolutionary War records of this
Bureau.

Very truly yours,
EARL D. CHURCH
Commissioner.
Page 13

Elizabeth Prettyman
of Benjn
Delaware

Suspended

let 15 April 1840
Hon. J. Clayton
do: 16th May 1840
do: No. 13 July 40
let. 27 July 1840 to
W.D. Waples

Act 7 July 1838
Page 14


Aaron Marshall, dead who was a pensioner
of the Delaware agency under act March 18. 1818
(file Sep. 1831), alleges ten months service from
March 1778, in Captain William Perry's Company.

William Arnel alleges one years service in Capt. Perry's company from Feb 1778, Del. Act 18 March 1818, file Sep 1831.
Page 15

Mills Boro Sussex, Del.  July 2, 1850
J.L. Edwards Esq Commissioner of Pensions at Washington
Sir
I wish you to inform me if there was any
Pension Papers sent when Mrs. Elizabeth Prettyman widow of the
Late Benjamin Prettyman a Revolution Pensioner applied to have
his in name (illegible) in roles under the act of the 2d of February 1848
for the (illegible)-act- Wilmington requires a certified Copy of these
the gentleman that sent the affidavit on to Washington and to
home the answer was sent-- has mislaid the same or lost them 
you will be so kind as to inform me what to do
in the case Mrs. Prettyman is not able to attend to
the matter and I have taken the liberty to address you
on the subject for her. Gardner H Wight -Esquire
the gentleman that sent on for her and to whom you
answered. I will endeavor to do what ever you direct
me to do in the case.
Very Respectfully Your obt. serv.
Jas. H. Burton

J.L. Edwards Esq.
Page 16

5175
Delaware
Elizabeth Prettyman
widow of Benjn Prettyman
who was a Private
in the Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of
40 Dollars --Cents per annum, to commence on
the 4th day of March, 1843.
---
Certificate of Pension issued the
29th day of March, 1844
and sent to
Hon. T. Clayton
Senate U. States
(Act of March 3, 1843.)
Book A.
Page 146
Page 17

Delaware 5687

Elizabeth Prettyman
widow of Benjamin Prettyman,
who was a pensioner under the Act of - -
and who died on the 27th of June, 1824
of Sussex Co. in the State of Delaware
who was a private in the compy commanded
by Captain Perry of the ---commanded
by---in the Delaware 
line for 1 year private

Inscribed on the Roll of Delaware
at the rate of 40 Dollars no Cents per annum
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.

Certificate of Pension issued the 5th day of September 1840
and sent to William D. Waples, Dagsboro, Delaware.
& to the 4th of March, 1841  (total) $200.00
---
Act July 7,
1838.

Recorded by S. A. Elliot Clerk
Book A, Vol. 2, Page 173
Page 18

Depositions of witnesses taken before
Hon. Samuel M. Harrington one of the Judges of
the Superior Court of the State of Delaware
this twenty ninth day of June A.D. 1840, in a
case of an application of Mrs. Elizabeth
Prettyman widow of Benjamin Prettyman
late of Sussex County in the said State
for a pension under the act of Congress
of July 7th, 1838, for and on account of
the revolutionary services of the said
Benjamin Pittman; he having served
in the war of the Revolution under
Captain William Peery.

Stephen Adkins aged about eighty-five
years being solemnly sworn on the Holy Evangels
of Almighty God deposeth and saith;
That in the year one thousand seven hundred
and seventy-seven (1777) on or about
the third of March, deponent who resided
in Angola neck below Lewis Town in this
Six Countys and State of Delaware, enlisted
for one year under Captain William
Peery: then recruiting at Lewis Town, that
deponent knew Benjamin Prettyman very
well; he was for a time the head of a
mifo? of six men of whom deponent was
one; that said Prettyman enlisted with
Captain Peery either two or three days before
or two or three days after deponent did,
and served in said Company to the
knowledge of this deponent, all the time
that this deponent did; that this deponent
Page 19


deponent enlisted as before stated on or
about the third of March, Seventeen hundred
and seventy seven and served until
December of that year, when he went to
his residence in Anjola about eight
miles from Lewis Town to stay the winter
by the permission and direction of Captain
Peery carrying with him his master and
cartrich (cartridge) box and six cartridges; that Capt
Peery expressly told deponent that he was
not to consider himself discharged but was
liable to march at a moments warning
whenever our services should require either
on account of the British or Tories,
and deponent was twice called out
during the winter to march against
the Tories; That deponent again returned
to Lewis Town on the first of March
and served regularly until the
following December when he was again
permitted and ordered to return home;
that deponent in this manner served
two seasons but did not return to
Lewis the following spring,
to serve in the regular service though
he afterwards served in the militia
services; and deponent is positive that
Benjamin Prettyman served all the time
he did in the regular service, but can
not speak further.
Deponent is now resident in the
Poor House of Kent County, in good
health but nearly blind.  He has a
distinct recollection of this matter to
which he testifies.
(signed) Stephen Adkins hisXmark

Sworn & subscribed
this 29 June AD 1840
Stephen
Before the
S. M. Harrington Jus.
Page 20

James Boyer the Keeper of the Public
Poor House of Kent County and State of
Delaware being duly sworn deposeth and
saith that he has known Stephen Adkins
since deponent has been Keeper of the said
poor house which will be two years next month,
and that from his knowledge of
said Adkins he believes him to be of
good reputation for veracity and fully
entitled to sit as a witness.
(signed) James E. Boyer
Sworn and subscribed
this 29th June AD 1840
Before me. J. M. Harrington, Judge.

Stephen Adkin, being reexamined further
deposeth and saith that Captain Peery
was stationed at Lewis Town for two years
as deponent has heard him say that
that was the term of service and this
deponent and also the said Benjamin
Prettyman were in the service for the
same term being permitted to go home
during the winter season as this deponent
has before (illegible); but subject
always to the order of Captain Peery
to be called into active service at a
moments warning.  This arrangement for
the winter was recorded by Captain Perry's
own order, and was even against deponents
consent who reacted to it because deponent
mother would have to support him at a
season when he could not work. Deponent
stated this objection to Capt. Peery who told
him it was necessary to save the expense
to the Government.
(signed) Steven Adkins hisXmark

Sworn & subscribed this
29th June AD 1840
Stephen
Adkins
before me
be
S. M. Harrington Judge
Page 21

I Samuel M. Harrington one of the Judges of the
Superior Court of the State of Delaware Do Certify
that the foregoing depositions of Stephen Adkins and
James E. Boyer were duly taken from and
subscribed before me this 29th of June AD 1840
and that from personal knowledge of said
deponents and evidence given under oath I
am satisfied that both of the said deponents
are entitled to full credit.
Given under my hand at Dover the day year Apr.
S. M. Harrington Jst
(illegible)

State of Deleware
Kent County SS.
I John H Eccleston, Secretary of
the Superior Court of the State of
Delaware being a Court of record
do hereby certify that the Honorable
Samuel M Harrington, whose name
is signed to the foregoing depositions
was at the time of so signing the same
one of the
Judges of the Superior Court of the State of Delaware
and that to his acts as such Judge full faith and
credit are due and ought to be given, as well in
Courts of Justice as thereout--
In his Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand
and affixed the seal of said Court at Dover the
twenty ninth day of June in the year of our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and forty
John H. Eccleston, Proth. Y
Page 22


Senate Chamber 13 Apl 1840

Sir,
I have received a letter from Col.
Waples of Delaware, a friend of Mrs. 
Elizabeth Prettyman who has applied for a
pension as the widow of Benjamin Prettyman
deceased, requesting me to ask the
fate of her claim. An answer from you
will oblige me.
Very respectfully
T. Clayton

J.L. Edwards, Esq.
Page 23


Senate Chambers 15 May 1840

Sir,
I again send you the proofs of Mrs, Prettyman,
upon which she expects to obtain a pension, 
and accompanying this letter you will
receive the family bible containing the
registry of marriages, births etc as I understand.
I am desired to ask that this book may be returned to me.
Very respectfully
J. L. Edwards Esq.
T. Clayton

J.> Edwards, Rgt.
Page 24

Hon. J. L. Edwards
Pension office
Washington City

(sideways)
Hon. T. Clayton
(illegible)
Page 25

Dagsboro, Delaware
May 9th 1840
J L Edwards Esqr

Sir
I received the Hon. Tho:
Claytons Communication enclosing to me your
favour to him of April 15th last past, requiring
other proof in the case of Mrs. Elizabeth Prettyman
application for a Pension, I have obtained Judge
Laytons Certificate of the good standing of Major
Isaac Waples, the witness made mentions of in your
to the Hon. T. Clayton upon enquiry and Search
I cant find any Church record of the Claimants-
Marriage, but I have obtained the family record
and have forwarded it, to the Hon. 
T. Clayton who will hand it to you. I have
written to the Secretary of this State requesting
him to examine his office in regard to the
Acct of Capt. Wm Perrys? Company on file in
his office to furnish me with a copy; and
should there be one I will forward the same
so soon as I can hear from him.
in regard to the time that Capt. William Perry,
Company was in service. their can be no doubt
but what it was in service two years. for
Page 26

the evidence of that fact I may refer you to the
Evidence filed in your office in the case of the application
of Mr Aaron Marshall who was one who served
in that Company, also in the case of the application
of the Revd Daniel Jester, who was put on the Pension
List, if I am informed Correctly it was proven in
these cases that Capt. Wm Perrys Company was
in service two years, Mr Aaron Marshall told Judge
Layton but a few days before his death that
Benjamin Prettyman did serve in Capt Perrys
Company two years; this Judge Layton Certifies;
Mrs. Sarah Rodney wife of the Hon. Daniel
Rodney who lived in Lewis Town all the time
of said service and who was well acquainted 
with said Benjamin Prettyman says he did
serve two years and that the distinctly recollects
of seeing him said Benjamin in the Rank
of said Company on the day that the Company
was finally discharged; Mrs. Sarah Rodney is a
smart active old Lady with good recollection
and is a lady of great integrity whose word
no one, who knows her would doubt, for her
good standing. I would refer you to Hon T
Clayton, Senator, in regard to the applicant Mrs.
Prettyman I have known her and all her family
for upwards of thirty years. She is a very
respectable old Lady, and is poor. and needs the
the assistance of her late husbands due her. I
hope that the evidence that I have been able
Page 27

to obtain after a laps of so many years will be
deemed sufficient to enable Mrs. Prettyman to
succeed in her honest and Just application. I
and very respectfully yours

Wm D Waples,
Page 28

Free

Hon. J. L. Edwards
Pension Agent
Pension Office
Washinton City


(at bottom upside down)
6731
Elizabeth Prettyman
Deceased
Page 29


Dagsboro, Delaware
Hon J L Edwards
Pension Agent
Jany 22 1840
Dear Sir
Mrs Elizabeth
Prettyman an aged old Lady, and poor;
has been a long time trying to get her
Claim for a Pension, before you in an
authentic(k) Shape for your decision; but being 
old and no one to act for her and not
knowing how to proceed until after your
letter of July 29 1839, to the Hon C.S. Layton
in regard to her claim, since which she
has been trying to procure such evidence
as would intitle her to her just claim
upon the Government, from which time the
business has been considerably delayed
for want of a proper officer to take the
depositions and the want of some one to get
the witnesses before said officers, during
which time one of most important of
said witnesses have died before she could
get his deposition; namely Mr Aaron
Marshall Senr, who served with Mr
Ben'in Prettyman the late husband of
Page 30

the Petitioner who died in his life time say and
but a little before his death, that he well-
recollected that Mr B Prettyman served
in the Revolution two years with him in
Capt Perrys Company this he stated to
Judge Layton a short time before his death
the Judge had called on Mr Marshall preparatory to taking the depositions which he was
about to do, to Judge Layton his Certified
the same in the deposition which will
accompany this. however I hope we have
been able to get such evidence as dose fully
prove that Mr B Burton did serve two
years as a soldier of the Revolution in the Company
commanded by Capt Wm Peery. Mrs Sary Rodney
wife of the Hon Daniel Rodney of Lewis
a lady of Strict integrity sound mind and excellent
memory speaks Clearly as to Mr Prettymans
services. --I hope therefore from the Testimony
herewith forwarded you, that you may 
be able to decide favourably in her case and
as early as possibly as she is now old
and Ready, your attention will very
much oblige her, if you should find
any thing further necessary, please let
me know it.
Very respectfully your
Friend
Wm D Waples
Page 31

the Petitioner who died in his life time say and
but a little before his death, that he well recollected
that Mr B Prettyman served
in the Revolution two years with him in
Capt Perrys Company this he stated to
Judge Layton a short time before his death
the Judge had called on Mr Marshall prepatory
to taking the depositions which he was
about to do--Judge Layton has certified
the same in the deposition which will
accompany this; however I hope we have
been able to get such evidence as dose fully
prove that Mr B Burton did serve two
years as a soldier of the revolution in the Company
commanded by Capt Wm Perry.  Mrs Sary Rodney
wife of the Hon Daniel Rodney of Lewis
a lady of Strict integrity sound mind and excellent
memory Speaks Clearly as to Mr Prettyman
services-- I hope therefore from the Testimony
here with forwarded you, that you may
be able to decide favourably in her case and
as early as possibly as she is now old
and Ready, your attention will very
much oblige her, if you should find
any thing further necessary please let
me know it.
very respectfully your
Friend--
Wm D Waples
Page 32


I am Mrs. Prettymans agent in
this business and will receive and attend
to all communications on this subject and
for my standing I refer you to Hon
Thomas Clayton Senator in Congress.
Yours, Wm D. Waples

J. Layton
The
Page 33

Augt 10.60
Eliz Prettymann
Del.
All

Dagsboro
August

Bill

J. S. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 34


Sagsboro: Augt 1 1840

J L Edwards Esqr

Sir
I have just received
your letter of the 27th last ultimo, in reply
to mine to you of 21st of the same, in regard
to the Claim of Elizabeth Prettyman widow
of Benjamin Prettyman deceased, for
a Pension; from which I find no other evidence
other than that of record, will effect
any thing more, than what appears to be
established by your former communications
believing that it will be out of my power to
get the necessary record evidence at this
time to intitle her to the two years
pay; or in other words, to full pay.  I
have concluded stop hear, and request
you to arrange her claim for what appears
to be admitted, that of one year, or half pay
as they case may, So that it may be got
for her, and to be so good as to inform
me, how I may obtain it for her, with
as little delay as possible. I am with great
respect, yours
Wm D Waples
Page 35


Senate Chamber 25 March 1844
Sir,
I send you herewith the Declaration
on oath of Mrs Elizabeth Prettyman
with the view of obtaining for
her a certificate that she is entitled
to a pension under the act of third
of March 1843.
I am very respectfully
T. Clayton

J.L. Edwards Esq.
Com. of Pensions
Page 36

Hon. J. L. Edwards
Com. of Pensions
Washington, D.C.
Page 37


Millsboro Ap. 9.1849
Hon. J. L. Edwards
Dear Sir
Enclosed you will find
an application from Mrs Elizabeth Prettyman
for a pension which she is entitled to by an Act
of 2d February 1848--Your kind attention
will confer a lasting favor on.
Your very Obdient and Humble servant,
G. H. Wright
Page 38

6731
Ellizabeth Prettyman of Bery, Delaware
admitted
Pr: 1 yr. H 40--
Cap. Perry. Del.
died 27 June 1824
Act 7 July 1838

Wm D. Waples
Dagsboro, Del.
Page 39

GLENDALE, CALIFORNIA

Nov. 29th 1929

Bureau of Pensions
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen,
Will you kindly
favor me with a copy of the
Pension granted Elizabeth
Prettyman Widow of Benjamin
Prettyman, private in Capt.
Williamson's Company, First
Battalion, Delaware Militia.
Revolutionary War.
New Castle County, Revolutionary War,
commanded Col. Thomas Duff, Pension
granted under act of 1838
I assure you your kindness
will be appreciated.

Yours truly
R. F. Prettyman
12281/2 North Central Ave.
Page 40

1930 Jan 23 hist.
to Mr. R. F. Prettyman

Revy WIDOW, &c.
------------------
File No. 9241
Elizabeth Prettyman
Wid. of
Benjamin Prettyman
Pvt. Rev. War

Act: Feby. 2 1848

Index:--Vol. M,  Page 140
(Arrangement of 1870)
Page 41

Daysboro: Delaware

J L Edwards Esqr
July 21, 1840
Sir
Your favour of the 13th--(illegible)
to the Hon. Thomas Clayton, in regard to the
affidavit of Stephen Adkins in support of the
claim of Mrs Elizabeth Prettyman widow of
Benjamin Prettyman deceased for a Pension--
you state that Capt Perrys Company in
which it is alleged, the service was preformed, was
raised for one year, and that unless recorded or
documentary evidence be produced showing that 
his company was continued another year in the 
service, a pension can be allowed only for one
year, owing to the knowledge of the fact that 
have from the best of Testimony among us that
Capt Peerys Company did serve two years &
that Benjamin Prettyman deceased did serve
in said Company two years.  I am induced
to ask you if, no other evidence than record 
or documentary; would not be allowed to prove
the service of Capt Perrys Company for two years.---
Page 42

at this time so long since the service was
rendered it Seems impossible to procure any
record evidence of the matter at all. I was
at Dover to examine the Secretary of State
office, but it seems that the papers has
been so loosely thrown about, that nothing
of the matter would be found at all, would
not the evidence of one or more very reputable
persons who resided in Lewis Town at the time
and can speak Clearly as to the time the Company
did serve be sufficient to establish her
claim for two years, I do think from what
I learn that there is no doubt but the Company
was in service two years.  I do think from what
I learn that here is no doubt that the Company
was in Service two years and that Benjamin
Prettyman did serve in said Company two
years. I would not have troubled you again
on the subject after receiving your last reply
to the Hon. Tho. Clayton but for the justness of 
Mrs. Prettymans Claim; if the affidavit of
living and reputable persons will do to prove
the part, I will obtain them and forward them.
very respectfully yours 
Wm D Maples
Page 43


Senate Chamber 11 July 1840

Sir
I send you here with some affidavits
in relation to Mrs Prettymans claim of her
pension; and I shall be very glad if this proof
is sufficient to establish it.
Very respectfully yrs,
T. Clayton

J. L. Edwards Esqr
Com of Pensions
Page 44

5hoh
Page 45

Sussex County ss.
The State of Delaware⎬ Be it remembered, that I, Caleb S. Layton,
an associate Judge of the State of Delaware,
residing in Sussex County, afr'd and aporiate? Judge of the Orphans' Court,
in said County, do hereby certify that the within named Elizabeth Prettyman,
widow, is personally known to me: that I believe she has truly 
represented herself as the widow of the said Benjamin Prettyman, deceased, as she has within set forth; that the said Elizabeth Prettyman, appeared
before me, some few years ago, and made affidavit. preparatory to her
application for pension under the act of Congress of July 7. 1838. That
I have seen the Certificate of J. L. Edwards Esquire, Commissioner of
Pensions, noting that the said Elizabeth Prettyman was pensioned
under the said act of July 7. 1838 and that she has deserved all that
she was entitled to under that law, and I believe she has drawn a
pension under the said last mentioned act: That the said Elizabeth
Prettyman appeared this day in open orphans Court, and the within
Declaration being paid to her, in presence & hearing the Court, The 
understanding the nature contents and effect thereof, did sign the same by
making her mark thereto. Given under my hand, at the County,
aforesaid, this thirteenth day of March, in the year of our Lord one
thousand Eight hundred and forty four.
Caleb S. Layton. A. J.
Page 46

State of Delaware
Sussex County ss

I Edward L. Wells, Clerk of the Orphans Court in and for
Sussex County aforesaid, the said Court being a Court of record
do hereby certify that the aforementioned Elizabeth Prettyman, did
appear in Open Orphans Court before the Hon. Henry John Jur. and the Hon. Caleb S.
Layton, there and then composing the said Orphans Court, and on the Solemn Oath did make
the aforementioned declaration: that the foregoing certificate of the Hon Caleb S. Layton
is in the proper hand writing of the said Caleb S. Layton and the signature the true
and genuine signature of the said Caleb S. Layton: that the said Elizabeth Prettyman
did sign her said declaration in my presence by making her mark thereto.
and that my attestation thereto was drawn by me.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and
affixed the Seal of the said Orphans Court this thirteenth
day of March in the year of one Lord one thousand eight
hundred and forty four.
Edwd L Wells Clk. O.C.
Page 47

form of the affidavit
United States of America
State of Delaware Sussex County, SS.
Be it known that before me James F Burton a Justice
of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid personally appeared
Elizabeth Prettyman and made oath in due form of Law
that she is the Identical person who drew a pension under the
act of the 17 of June 1844 on account of the revolutionary
service of her husband the late Benjamin Prettyman at the
rate of forty dollars per Annum that she now makes this
affidavit for the purpose of drawing a pension under the
act of Congress passed on the 2d of Febuary 1848 entitled
an act making further provision for surviving widows and 
soldiers of the Revolution that she now resides in the County
of Sussex and State of Delaware and his resided there
for the space of ninety years and that she never resided
in any other place.
Sworn to and subscribed this the 30 day of March AD 1850.
                                            Elizabeth HerXmark Prettyman
In the presence of
Patience Prettyman
Comfort Prettyman
Before me Jas. F. Burton J.P.
Page 48

(Transcription note: Many spellings were changed to make the document more readable)

Mills Boro Sussex County Set August 5th 1854
J.L. Edwards, Commissioner of Pensions
Sir
I received your letter of the 17 of July
but it came too late.  Mrs. Prettyman died on the 22nd
of July the same day that I received your letter.  what I wish
to say to you is that Isaac Runnel the cashier of the
bank at George Rowen has advanced the money that
was due Mrs Prettyman and I wish to no (know) if he cant
recover it in some form or other as there was some
mistake about the form of the affidavit I have the
affidavit in my possession that was duly signed by Mrs.
Prettyman on the 30 day of March 1850 for the purpose of
Drawing this Pension but when it was sent up the
(illegible) Mr Jacob Alricks at Washington Sent it back
requesting a copy of the Pension Certificate since I wrote
to you I have been informed that she never received
a formal certificate but has drawn her pension on a
new notification.  I have also blank Duplicate present
in my possession that was declared signed by Mrs Prettyman
we having been informed that that was sufficient for to
draw her pension under the late act if you would
be so kind as to inform me whether the will do
or not as I wish Mr. Runnel to receive his money
at once.  I will give you the form of the receipts below
likewise the form of the affidavit which is duly certified
with the seal of the Court.
Very Respectfully yours & saith not
 J. H. Burton

JL Edwards Commissioner of Pensions
No. For $ Received of Jacob Alrich Esq of the City of Wilmington
Agent for paying Military Pensions in the State of Delaware,
being for six months pension due me from the 4
day of September 1849. to the 4 day of March 1850 for which I have
signed duplicate--executes this 4 day of May 1850
Elizabeth HerXmark Prettyman
Patience Prettyman
Josf. H. Burton
Page 49

United States of America
State of Delaware Sussex County ss,
Be it known that before me James F Burton a Justice
of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid Personally
appeared Elizabeth Prettyman and made oath in due
form of law and saith that she is the widow of
Benjamin Prettyman who was in the revolutionary
service and that she drew a pension of forty dollars per
annum by the act of 17 June 1844 and that she is
still a widow and entitled to her Pension by the
act of 2nd February 1848
Sworn and subscribed this 7 day of April 1849
in Presence of Elizabeth herXmark Prettyman
Patience Prettyman
Eliza Pretty
Before me Jas F Burton JP
I certify that the above named applicant is personally known
to me and that she is the same judicial who drew
a Pension by the act of 17 June 1844 and that she is the widow
of the Late Benjamin Prettyman as attested by her in the foregoing
affidavit
Jas F Burton JP

State of Delaware ⎬
Sussex County ss.
⎬
I Robert A. Houston Prothonotary
of the Superior Court of the State of
Delaware, in and for Sussex
County aforesaid, do hereby certify
that James F Burton, whose
name is affixed (illegible) is in
his own proper hand writing
and that he was and now is a
Justice of the Peace in and
for said County aforesaid and is duly authorized to
administered oaths or affirmations
and as such officer to all his acts full faith and
credit should be given to them, In testimony
whereof I hereto set my hand and affix my seal
of Office at Georgetown this 9th day of April AD
D. 1849
R. A. Houston, Proy