Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 21,553, for John Larkin, Rhode Island
Page 1

(3-1776)
SERVICE
R.I.

Larkin, John
Patience

NUMBER
W.21.553
Page 2

3877
Rhode Island
Patience Larkin
Widow of John
R.I.
Who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 20 Dollars – 
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th of March, 1848.

Certificate of Pension issued the 15 day of Feby 1849 and sent to
Elisha R. Potter
Kingston, R.I.

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 13 Vol. 3

[right side]
Reported 
Feby 15/49
Page 3

Declaration 
In order to obtain the benefit of the third section of the act of Congress of the 4th July 1836 
On this 19th day of October 1837 personally appeared before the Court of Probate of the Town of South Kingston County of Washington and State of Rhode Island Patience Larkin a resident of said town County and state who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed July 4 1836. 
That she is the widow of John Larkin of said town who died on the 26th Nov. 1823 in the sixty eighth year of his age. The applicant was the daughter of Capt Christopher Gardner of said South Kingstown and was born Dec. 14. 1757. She was married to the said John Larkin Feb. 25 1781 and has remained a widow ever since his decease. 
She first became acquainted with said John Larkin while he was in the military service as shore guard near the South Ferry within a few miles of which her father lived. Her father commanded an Artillery company which was stationed near the same place and her brothers were also engaged in the service. Said John was in the service there often and for considerable periods of time
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before their marriage and the summer and winter after their marriage he was also away in service a great part of the time but the applicant cannot state more particularly 
Sworn to and subscribed before said Court the day and year aforesaid 
Patience Larkin
Court of Probate South Kingstown Oct 9. 1837 Patience Larkin there appeared before this Court and made oath to the truth of the declaration she has signed above. and the Court having heard said declaration and evidence relating thereto is of opinion that John Larkin deceased husband of said applicant was a soldier in the war of the Revolution as said applicant has stated. 
I Thomas R Wells Clerk of the Court of Probate of the Town of South Kingstown hereby certify the fore going to be the true proceedings of said Court in relation to the application of Patience Larkin for a pension, that said Patience signed & made oath to said declaration before said Court, & further that Elisha R. Potter who has taken the depositions here attached is a Justice of the Peace and that his signatures on said papers are genuine. Witness my hand and the seal of said Court this twelfth day of December AD 1837 
Thomas R Wells Probate Clerk
Page 5

The deposition of John G Larkin of South Kingston Rhode Island who being duly sworn according to law on oath deposes that he is now in the forty third year of his age, that his father John Larkin died on the 26 Nov. 1823 and was at that time in the 68th year of his age. That by an entry in his mothers Bible it appears that said John Larkin and Patience Gardner were married Feb. 25. 1781- that said Bible has always been kept in the family and said entry has been there ever since the deponents recollection, and his mother has never intermarried with any other person since his fathers decease.
 The deponent used frequently to hear his father talk about his services in the Revolutionary war and among other things recollects his stating the following circumstances 
That he the said John Larkin was frequently in the service in the Revolutionary war before his marriage which took place in Feb 1781 and in the summer following served almost continually in terms of one and two months at a time. He was frequently engaged in guarding the shores on Boston Neck and Point Judith and it was while he was engaged in this service that he became acquainted with and married the mother of the deponent Patience Gardner daughter of Christopher Gardner who was Captain of an artillery company and
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lived within a few miles of one of the stations. The conversations and declarations from which the deponent recollects the circumstances above were held and made a number of years ago at a time when said John Larkin had no interest in making them and did not suppose that he or his family should ever receive any remuneration from the government for his services. The conversations were held sometimes with the deponent, sometimes with other people in deponents presence.
After said John and Patience intermarried, said John Still continuing in the service and absent from his own home for a great part of the time, the deponents mother, the present applicant resided with her father while said John was in the service and sometimes with her husband upon his farm when he returned for short intervals to work upon it. 
He has also frequently heard his father speak of his services in the expedition of General Sullivan upon the island of Rhode Island and at other places but he cannot recollect the dates and periods particularly. He used to say that he had served three years or more in the course of the war. 
John G. Larkin 
South Kingstown Dec 5. 1837 John G Larkin made oath in due form of law to the truth of the foregoing deposition. I certify said John is well known to me, that his character for truth & veracity is good and his statement entitled to full credit 
E R Potter
Justice of the Peace
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Copy of Bible Record
John Larkin & Patience his wife was married February 25th AD 1781 
Sarah Larkin was Born Thursday 
October & 18 in year 1783
Patience Larkin was born November the 2 in ^year 1787 friday
Mary Larkin was born December the 19  A D 1789. Saturday 
Luahanah Larkin was born May the 29 day AD 1792 Monday 
John G. Larkin was born June 21 A.D. 1795 Sunday 
Patience Gardner was born December the 5th 1759 Fryday 
South Kingston August 18. 1838 
John G Larkin
Attest Willm Nichols
Page 8

W.21553
Mr. H. D. Larkin
883 Garrison Avenue
Teaneck, New Jersey
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter relative to John Larkin, a soldier of the Revolutionary War. 
The data contained herein were obtained from the papers on file in the Revolutionary War claim for pension, W.21553, based upon the military service of John Larkin in that war. 
The date and place of birth and the names of the parents of John Larkin are not shown. 
John Larkin was a resident of Richmond, and South Kingstown, Rhode Island, during the Revolutionary War. He enlisted in 1775, served at various times, three years in all, until the summer or winter of 1781, as private, sergeant and ensign in the Rhode Island troops under the following officers: Captains Babcock, Jonathan Maxon, James Parker, John Clarke and Colonels Joseph Noyes and Charles Dyer. He was in General Spencer's expedition to Rhode Island and General Sullivan's expedition to Rhode Island. He was in a battle at sea. He was also wounded, no details given. 
He died November 26, 1823 in South Kingstown or in Richmond, Rhode Island, aged sixty-seven years.
Soldier married in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, February 25, 1781, Patience, the daughter of Captain Christopher Gardner or Gardiner, of South Kingstown. She was born December 14, 1757 or December 5, 1759, place not stated. The name of her mother is not given. 
Soldier's widow, Patience Larkin, was allowed pension on her application executed October 9, 1837, at which time she was a resident of South Kingstown, Wash-
[continued on next page: Washington]
Page 9

[continued from first page: Washington]
ington County, Rhode Island. 
The names of the following children of John and Patience Larkin are shown: 
Sarah Larkin born October 18, 1783.
Patience Larkin “ November 2, 1787.
Mary or May Larkin if “  December 19, 1789.
Suahanah or Luahanah Larkin “ May  29, 1792.
John G. Larkin “ June 21, 1795 and a resident of, and Kingston, Rhode Island, in 1848. 
In 1877 Mrs. Charles Briggs, a daughter of said John G. Larkin, was living in Kingston, Rhode Island, her age not stated. 
A brother of soldier, David Larkin, aged eighty-four years, was residing in Hopkinton, in 1837. 
In 1837 a sister of soldier, Darkis or Dorcas, Davis, aged eighty-three years, was living in Richmond, Rhode Island. 
In 1837 a sister of the widow, Patience Larkin, Lucina Brown, aged sixty-eight years was a resident of North Kingstown, Rhode Island. 
Brothers of said Patience served in the Revolutionary War, the names not stated. 
Very truly yours 
A. D. HILLER 
Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator
Page 10

4
E. R. Potter 21 Apl '38
Wm. R. Noyes, Oct. 26 18

act 4 July '36
Page 11

Bible to be sent today to Mrs. Chas Briggs
Kingston
Washn co
R.I.
Page 12

[top left corner]
B.P. Dir.
WBE
Department of the Interior 
PENSION OFFICE
Washington, D.C. June 11th 1877 
Dear Sir
Please furnish this office with the names and PO. address of some of the descendants of Mrs Patience Larkin Widow of John Larkin late a private in the Rev War. Application for pension was made by her son John G. Larkin in 1844. all formerly resided in your town. A Bible containing a family record was filed in evidence about that time, with a request for its return-- It is now desired to return said Bible to the family.
Please return this letter with your reply. 
Very respectfully
JA Bentley
Commissioner
Pensions

[left bottom corner]
To the Post Master 
Kingston 
Washington Co. 
R.I.
Page 13

[left side]
family record
Patience Larkin born Nov 2. 1757
John Larkin born 1755
The rest cannot be made out

[right side]
Bible to be sent today to Mrs Chas Briggs
Kingston
Washn Co
R.I.
Page 14

T. A. GARDNER,
Dry Goods,
Grocery, Provision, Flour, Corn, Mean, and Farm Produce Dealer.
NOTARY PUBLIC OFFICE
Kingston, R.I. June 16 1877
Post office

The Commissioner of
Pensions.
Washington D.C.
D. Sir
Mrs Charles Briggs O Kingston R.I. is the daughter of John G. Larkin. Mr Larkin shot himself some years ago.
Yours Truly
T.A Gardner P.N.
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File No 21.553
Widow
Patience Larkin
Page 16

[top left corner]
BP Div E.
[top right corner]
File No 21.553 Pension

Department of the Interior
PENSION OFFICE
Washington, D.C. June 22nd 1877.
Dear Madam
I retrun herewith a part of an Old Bible sent to this office in 1843 and filed in evidence with the application of your Grand Mother – Mrs Patience Larkin – for pension.
You will please acknowledge the receipt of the Bible on the back of this letter and return it ^to this office in the enclosed envelope.
Very respectfully
JA Bentley
Commissioner 
Pensions

[bottom left corner]
Mrs Chas Briggs
Kingston
Washington Co
R.I.

[left edge vertical]
Bible published 1799
Page 17


File No. 21.533
Widow
Patience Larkin
Page 18

The Deposition of Silas Moore of Richmond who being duly sworn according to law on oath depose and says that he was well acquainted with John Larkin now deceased whose widow is now applying for a pension that said John Larkin lived for a part of the time during the Revolutionary war in Richmond and a part of the time in the adjoining town of South Kingstown. The deponent recollects frequently seeing said Larkin in service in the Militia in guarding the shores but cannot specify the particular time and places. He has no doubt but that said Larkin held some office in the company he belonged to, as he had frequently seen him when he appeared to be in command of the men, but he cannot say what office he held. The deponent was himself engaged in Genl Sullivans Expedition and always understood and believes that said Larkin was also engaged in the same expedition but does not positively recollect seeing him there himself. The deponent is now in the seventy eighth year of his age.
Silas Moore 
State of Rhode Island said County of Washington Sept 23 1837 Silas Moore signed the foregoing deposition in my presence and also made solemn oath in legal form to the truth of the same. I further certify that said Moores character for truth and veracity is good and his statement entitled to full credit.
E.R. Potter 
Justice of Peace in and for the County aforesaid
Page 19

The Deposition of Lucina Brown of North Kingstown Rhode Island who being duly sworn according to law on oath deposes and says that she was the daughter of Capt. Christopher Gardner of South Kingstown and is now in the sixty ninth year of her age. Her father was captain of an Artillery Company in the Revolutionary war and from this circumstance the soldiers when in service were frequently at her fathers house and sometimes the whole company was there. She recollects that Elder William Northup was drummer of the company. She recollects well seeing John Larkin at her fathers house often during the war and always understood that he was a soldier in the American service, although being then very young then she does not recollect the times and places where he served. I was present at the marriage of my eldest sister Patience and said John Larkin which I believe took place in the year 1781. I recollect that I was just twelve years and two months old at the time, and the circumstance of my age was talked of at the time, I being the youngest sister. Said John Larkin was frequently at our house after the marriage and would come and go with my brothers and other soldiers and I always understood that he was then in the service, but did not see him in it. The soldiers who were stationed in the neighborhood would frequently when in want of provisions come to my fathers house to get them. She recollects particularly said John and one of her brothers equipping themselves to go off on service after said marriage but cannot tell where it was. She believes it was in the spring after the marriage. 
Susannah Brown
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State of Rhode Island
County of Washington}
Oct 1837 Thee Lucina Brown signed & made oath in dur form of law to the truth of the foregoing deposition. I further certify her character for truth & veracity is good and her statement to credit.
ER Potter
Justice of the Peace
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The deposition of Dorcas Davis of Richmond who being duly sworn according to law on oath depose and says that she is now in the eighty fourth year of her age, that her brother John Larkin (deceased) was in his youth in the time of the Revolutionary war absent from home for nearly four years and that she always then and since understood that he was engaged in the military American service but she cannot recollect the times with much particularity. He was engaged in service on Rhode Island at one time where a British fleet came there. He was also engaged with other soldiers in an expedition to Long Island. She cannot recollect the year. He was gone from home at this time several month. She also recollects his having held the office of Ensign and that he at one time belonged to Capt Jonathan Maxons Company. The above statement is made according to the best of my recollection 
Dorca Davis
State of Rhode Island County of Washington Sept 25. 1837 
Then Dorcas Daviss signed the foregoing deposition in my presence & made solemn oath in due form of law to the truth of the same. I further certify that her character for truth & veracity is good and her statement entitled to credit 
ER Potter is good 
Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid.
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Additional Statement of Dorcas Davis.  I recollect that when John Larkin deceased was in his twentieth year there were some talk of his have a communion but his father opposed it as he wanted his services on the farm.  He then when he did enter into the service was appointed orderly Sergeant.
Dorcas Davis
County of Washington Oc. 10th 1837
Signed and sworn to as on the preceding page before
ER Potter
Justice of the Peace
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deposition of John Vallet of Richmond who being duly engaged according to law on oath deposes and says that he is now in the eighty second year of his age. that he was well acquainted with John Larkin now deceased whose widow is applying for a pension that he was himself a soldier in the American service in the Revolutionary war, that he well recollects frequently seeing said Larkin engaged in said service. He recollects seeing him once in service guarding the shores and quartered at the Smith House so called near the South Ferry in Boston Neck and also once in the same sort of service quartered on the Southern part of Boston Neck.
John Vallet
State of Rhode Island County of Washington} Sept 23. 1853 
There John Vallet signed the foregoing deposition in my presence and made solemn oath in due form of law to the same to the truth of the same and I certify that said Vallets character for truth and veracity is good and his statement entitled to credit 
ER Potter
Justice of the Peace
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The deposition of Ebenezer Smith of South Kingston Rhode Island who being duly sworn according to law on oath deposes that he is now eighty years old that he was well acquainted with John Larkin decd (whose Widow now applies for a pension) for several years before the Revolutionary war [crossed out: that the said Larkin served a tour of one month in the militia service at the Mumford house called in Point Judith guarding the shores] - that in the year 1775 he ^ Mr Larkin served three out of six successive months on Boston Neck guarding the shores. In 1776 said Larkin served three months ^(not successively) on Point Judith in the same service, he thinks in the latter part of Spring and early part of summer. He was quartered at the Mumford house so called. The said John then went out in a private armed vessel to cruise against the enemy but returned before Genl Spencers expedition, when he was ordered to march round to Tiverton to join the expedition and served in it one month. In 1778 said Larkin served a month on Rhode Island at the time of the great French Storm in General Sullivans Expedition. The next year he also served two months at two different times as shoreguard in Boston Neck. This was the last of his service deponent recollects. Said John was at different times the deponent believes under Captains Babcock, Parker and Maxon
Ebenezer Smith X his mark
Witnesses
ER Potter
Rouse R Clarke
Page 25

South Kingstown
County of Washington} Oct 5 1837
Ebenezer Smith made oath in due form of law to the truth of the foregoing deposition said Smiths character for truth & veracity is good and his statement in my opinion entitled to credit.
ER Potter
Justice of the Peace
Page 26

D. Larkin
1 mo Capt James Parker – Tew House
3 mo Ensign – No officers
1 ----- Spencers coprl 77
1.  Ensign Sullivans cc 78
Was always in situations I know John, services and the above are all the services recollected
Ebenezer Smith
The last of his service was in Sullivans expn as far as he recollects
Page 27

Town Clerks Office 
South Kingstown R.I. Dec. 11. 1837. 
I hereby certify that I have examined the Records of said Town and can no where find the record of the marriage of John Larkin and Patience Gardner in said office. I also certify that I have good reason to believe that but very few of the marriages in said town have ever been recorded in said Office
Tho. R. Wells Town Clerk 
Thomas R Wells Esq Town Clerk as aforesaid made oath to the truth of the above certificate Dec 11. 1837 before me E R Potter Justice of the Peace
Page 28

Kingston R. I. Dec 28 1837 
Sir
I forwarded to the office several weeks since the pension papers of Mrs Babcock and Mrs Patience Larkin. with the former I sent a letter as it seems is required by the rules of the office but in Mrs Larkins case I did not send any letter, not knowing that it was necessary. 
I have therefore to request as attorney for Mrs Larkin that her case may be attended to in its proper order and that any communications respecting it may be addressed to me. Reference of necessary to either of the members of Congress from this State 
Yours Respectfully 
ER Potter 

Please address to 
E. R. Potter 
Kingston R. I.
Page 29

Kingston R. I. Oct 24th 1842 
Sir,
Herewith I forward you some new and further proof in support of the claim of Mrs. Patience Larkin widow of John Larkin late of this Town dec'd. Elisha R. Potter Esq informs me that he attended as atty to the taking of the declaration of Mrs L. before the Court of Probate & the proof in support of the claim, which was forwarded to the Department either the last of 1837 of the first of 38. In the spring of ‘38 he (Mr. P ) received a letter from you stating several objections to the allowance and particularly to the proof of marriage & the service after it was stated to have taken place
 In the summer of ‘38 M Potter having business to attend to Transferred all his pension claims to me, and if I am not mistaken wrote you to that effect. shortly after the transfer I took the depon of Moses Kinyon & John G. Larkin and intended forwarding them immediately, but on my way to Newport in a small boat, my papers got out & more or less injured away which was this depo. Kinyon, it was put away to dry got misplaced and not found until recently. I have now collected what evidence I could conveniently & submit it your examination, viz, the depositions Moses Kinyon Gideon Palmer & John G. Larkin Also the family Bible as I received it from Larkin him in the presence of William Nichols Esq J.G. Larkin, both of which wrote their names on a page of sd Bible previous to its delivery & dated August 18th 1838 
This me and further evidence taken in connection with the proof forwarded
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by Mr Potter. I hope & trust will be found sufficient to satisfy the Department of the justice of the claim and that you will soon forward me a certificate for the amount you may find Mrs. L. entitled 
Mrs. Larkin requests me to ask as a particular favour that the Bible may be returned if not inconsistent with the regulations of the Department 
Respectfully Your Obt.
& Vy Hl. Servant
Wm. R. Noyes Agt for 
Patience Larkin

James L. Edwards Esqr. 
Commr of Pensions 
Washington D.C.
Page 31

Kingston R I Decr 2d 1842 
Sir
herewith I forward for your examination the declaration of Mrs. Patience Larkin, widow of John Parkin late of Richmond R.I. Who having filed in proving to the satisfaction of Department that she is entitled to a pension under Act of Congress passed July 4th 1836, Now respectfully intreats an allowance under act of July 7th 1838, entitled "An act granting half pay & pensions to certain widows 
Your early attention to this claim will confer and obligation on an aged matron & oblige your 
Most Obt. I.V.Y. Hl. Servant 
for Patience Larkin 
James L Edwards Esqr. 
Comr of Pensions 
Washington 
D.C.
Page 32

Peace Dale S. Kingstown R.I. April 15th 1843 
Sir
Enclosed I forward you the declaration of Patience Larkin, for the purpose of obtaining the benefit of the act of Congress passed March 3 1843 
It was taken before a Justice of the Peace on record of the difference of trouble & expense they bring. no Judge of a Court of record within 8 Miles and their charges being quadruple that of a Justice. Of the declaration should meet the requisitions of the Department. You should have the goodwill to forward me a certificate. 
Respectfully Your Obt Sert 
Wm R Noyes Esqr
 I forward you on the 22d of March the declar of Mrs Sarah Clarke Widow of the late Wm. C. Clark dc’d the receipt of which has not been acknowledged you will confer a favor by giving her claim as early attention at your convenience will admit
James L Edward Esq
Commr of penisons
Washington
Page 33

Kingston R.I.
Sept 28, 1848

Sir
Please enclose the certificate for Patience Larkin either to me or to her son John G Larkin at this place
Very Respectfully
Yours
Elisha R. Potter

Hon J L Edwards
Page 34

March 15, 1937.
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
BA-J/ady
John Larkin
W.21553

Mr. George R. Larkin
38 East Broadway
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Dear Sir: 
Reference is made to your letter relative to John Larkin, a soldier of the Revolutionary War. 
The data contained herein were obtained from the papers on file in the Revolutionary War claim for pension, W.21553, based upon the military service of John Larkin in that war. 
The date and place of birth and the names of the parents of John Larkin are not shown. 
John Larkin was a resident of Richmond, and South Kingstown, Rhode Island, during the Revolutionary War. He enlisted in 1775, served at various times, three years in all, until the summer of winter of 1781, as private, sergeant and ensign in the Rhode Island troops under the following officers: Captain Babcock, Jonathan Maxon, James Parker, John Clarke and Colonels Joseph Noyes and Charles Dyer. He was in General Spencer's expedition to Rhode Island and General Sullivan's expedition to Rhode Island. He was in a battle at sea. He was also wounded, no details given. 
He died November 26, 1823 in South Kingstown or in Richmond, Rhode Island, aged sixty-seven years.
Soldier married in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, February 25, 1781, Patience, the daughter of Captain Christopher Gardner or Gardiner, of South Kingstown. She was born December 14, 1757 or December 5, 1759, place not stated. The name of her mother is not given. 
Soldier's widow, Patience Larkin, was allowed pension on her application executed October 9, 1837, at which time she was a resident of South Kingstown, Wash-
[continued on next page: Washington]
Page 35

[from previous page: Washington]
ington County, Rhode Island. 
The names of the following children of John and Patience Larkin are shown: 
Sarah Larkin born October 18, 1783.
Patience Larkin “ November 3, 1787.
Mary or May Larkin “ December 19, 1789
Suahanah or Luahanah Larkin “ May 29, 1792.
John G. Larkin “ June 21, 1795, and a resident of Kingston, Rhode Island, in 1848.
In 1877 Mrs. Charles Briggs, a daughter of said John G. Larkin, was living in Kingston, Rhode Island, her age not stated.
A brother of soldier, David Larkin, aged eighty-four years, was residing in Hopkinton, in 1837. 
In 1837 a sister of soldier, Darkis or Dorcas, Davis, aged eighty-three years, was living in Richmond, Rhode Island. 
In 1837 a sister of the widow, Patience Larkin, Lucina Brown, aged sixty-eight years was a resident of North Kingstown, Rhode Island. 
Brothers of said Patience served in the Revolutionary War, their names not stated. 
Very truly yours 
A. D. HILLER 
Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator

[handwritten not on right side] Date of widow's death not on A. B.
Page 36

ECORDS SECTION. 
3 -- 525 
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. 
BUREAU OF PENSIONS. 
Washington, D.C., Jan. 12 1922 
In reply to your request of [null] received [null] for a statement of the military history of Jno Larkin a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired formation as contained in his [crossed out: (or] his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau. 
[column headers] DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. | LENGTH OF SERVICE. | RANK. | OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. CAPTAIN. | COLONEL. | STATE.
1778 |+ served | Pvt. | Babcock | Jos. Noyes | R.I.
Summer & Winter 1781 | at various times 3 years in all | Sgt & Ensign | Jno. Clark Jonathan Maxon Jas Parker | Chas Dyer Jesse Maxson | [null]
He was wounded – no details given.
Battles engaged in, Sullivan ^Spencer Ex in R.I. a battle at sea, no name attached
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Richmon R.I.
Date of application for pension, Oct 9, 1837 Her cl. al.
Residence at date of application, South Kingston, Washington Co R.I.
Age at date of application, she was b. Dec. 14, 1757 or Dec 1759
Remarks: Sol mar. Feb 25, 1781 Patience dau of Cap’t Christopher Garnder of said S. Kingston, R.I. Sol d. Nov 26, 1823 at 67 yrs. From copy of Bible record: - Sarah b Oct-18, 1783; Patience b. Nov 2, 1787; May or Mary b. Dec 19, 1789; Suahana ^or Luahanah [written below] b. May 29m 1792; John G b. June 21, 1795
Respectfully,
Commissioner
Soldier had Brother David
Grand daughter Mr. Charles Briggs [illegible] of Veller [illegible]
Page 37

July 6th 1937.
Mr. A.D. Hiller
Executive Assistant to the Administrator,
Veterans Administration,
Washington D.C.
Dear Sir:
As I would like to become a member Of The Sons Of The Revolution will you kindly furnish me the same Information you forwarded to George R. Larkin of Gettsburg Pa. relative to John Larkin a soldier in the Revolutionary War.
Your letter referred to is covered by your file BA-J-ADY John Larkin W.21553.
Thanking you in advance,
I Remain
Respectfully Yours
H.D. Larkin
H.D. Larkin 
CDY
883 Garrison Ave,
Teaneck, New Jersey.
[stamped]
RECEIVED JUL 7 1937 MAIL SUB-DIV
VETS. ADM 21
[illegible]
Page 38

38 East Broadway, Gettysburg, Pa
February 15, 1937.

Commissioner of Pensions, 
Bureau of Pensions,
Dept. of the Interior,
Washington, D. C. 
Dear Sir:
I would like to get a copy of the pension granted to Patience Gardiner Larkin, widow of Ensign John Larkin of Rhode Island, in recognition of his services in the Revolutionary War. I have been informed that I could get this from this Bureau. If not, will you kindly tell me where I can get at least an official record of such a pension. John Larkin was born in 1755, and died Nov. 14, 1821. His widow was the daughter of Christopher Gardiner (1726 - 1812) who also was Captain of a company in a Kent County Regiment during the war of the Revolution. Patience Larkin, the pensioner was born in 1759 and died in 1850. 
Very truly yours, 
George R. Larkin
[stamp]
RECEIVED FEB 18 1937
MAIL SUB-DIV.
VETS ADM READER #5
Page 39

Rec
Elsa, N.Y 
Jan 6, 1922 – 
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington, D.C. 
My dear Sir:- Some time ago I wrote & asked for what information you might have on record in regard to Capt. David Larkin who died at Richmond R.I. Dec. 1, 1811, and of his son Ensign John Larkin who died at South Kingston R.I.
Page 40

and who served in the Revolutionary War. I am a descendant and wish you might inform me what is on file – 
Respt yours, W. S. Raymond Elba, N.Y.

[left stamp]
US PENSION OFFICE
D JAN 9 1922

[right stamp]
RECORD DIVISION
JAN 9 1922
Page 41

(M 27 ) 
Record Division 
 Rev. War Section 
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF PENSIONS
WASHINGTON
January 7, 1922.
Winifred S. Raymond, 
Elba, New York. 
Madam: --
In reply to your letter dated the 13" December, and received the 16 December, you are advised that the Revolutionary War records of this Bureau fail to afford any information in regard to David Larkin as described by you. In order to identify the record of any particular John Larkin you are requested to furnish as much as possible of the following data: -- places of residence at enlistment and after service; approximate dates of birth and death; given name of widow; names of any officers under whom he served. 
Very respectfully, 
[illegible]
Commissioner.
[stamped]
US PENSION OFFICE D JAN 12 1922
Page 42

Capt. David Larkins wife was Mary a daughter of Hasard Knowles. According to the state Record Commissioner of Providence R.I. he commanded the Richmond Co. R.I. in the Militia in 1763, but in the census of 1777 is noted as unable. Statement by David Larkin on file at Pension office, he also advised me His son John Larkin’s wife was the daughter Patience of Capt Christopher & Mary Gardner according to our old Bible he died at South Kingston R. Nov. 24, 1821 in the 67th yr of his age. Am told he was in Capt James Parker Co. of R.I. & reaching the rank of Ensign and became a pensioner of the Revolutionary War
Page 43

[left side]
Rev
WIDOW, &c
File No. 21.553
Patience Larkin
Widow of
John Larkin
Pri Rev War
Act Feb 29, 48
Index: Vol A, Page 421

[right side]
1922, Jan 11 Hist to W.S. Raymond EW
1937 Mar. 15 Hist to George R Larkin A.D.Y.
1937 July 17. Hist to HD Larkin A.D.Y.

Richmond R.I when [continued on far left side] living
Mar Patience Gardn [continued on far left side] er R.I.
Page 44

The deposition of David Parkin of Hopkinton who being duly sworn according to law on oath deposes and says that he is now in the eighty fifth year of his age, that he well knows that his brother John Larkin deceased was a Soldier in the American service in the Revolutionary war, that the first service which the deponent recollects said John doing, was on the island of Connecticut at the time that Admiral Wallace with his vessels was in the Bay, and that said John served there one month in a company of which James Parker was Captain and was quartered while there at the Tew House on the North part of the island - The next service said John was in, was at the Brown House so called in the South part of Boston neck where said John was Ensign of his company. He served here at least three months. The said John served one month in what was called Gen Spencers expedition against the island of Rhode Island then in possession of the British. His next service was in General Sullivans Expedition where he served at least one month and the deponent believes that he had the office of Ensign at this time. When the troops left the island said John had command of one of the boats. The above are all the terms of service which the deponent recollects particularly. said John was then Young and a very active man and as he had no regular business of his own to employ him, he was engaged in the military service a great part of his time. The deponent was a part of the time in the same company with his brother John and was always in situations where he could know of his services.
David Larkin 
[bottom of page too light: illegible]
Sat Sept 23
Page 45

State of Rhode Island County of Washington} Sept 23. 1837 
There before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said County appeared David Larkin and made solemn oath in due form of law to the truth of the deposition he has here signed, which was signed in my presence. I further certify that said deponents character for truth and veracity is good and his statement entitled to credit.
E R Potter Justice of the Peace
Page 46

The Deposition of David Sherman of South Kingstown who being duly sworn according to law on oath deposes and says that he was well acquainted with John Larkin decd for a number of years before his death. The said John Larkin frequently visited at my fathers house and I used to hear them often talking over their services in the war of the Revolution. The account always given by said John and talked of by him and deponents father was as follows as far as he can recollect it. That said John was a soldier in an expedition to Long Island and was in a battle there in which he was taken prisoner by the enemy. That said John was engaged for six or nine months, and the deponent believes enlisted, on the Island of Rhode Island in service there. He was also engaged in a battle at sea with the enemy. The deponent has also heard said John give account of his services for different times in guarding the shores. Said John was always a very active man and the deponent has often seen him exhibit the wounds he had recieved [sic] in the service. I have often heard him say that he served during the whole war either by sea or land. I should think from the I accounts that his name must be found on some of the rolls of the regular enlisted soldiers. He was once I believe a Lieutenant or Ensign. His own account of his services was always supported and confirmed by the general understanding and common report among [crossed out: the] his neighbors 
David Sherman
Page 47

South Kingstown Washington County 
Dec 5. 1837
David Sherman made solemn oath in due form of law to the truth of the foregoing deposition. I certify that M Sherman is a man somewhat advanced in years and that his character for veracity is good and his statement in my opinion entitled to full credit.
E R Potter
Justice of Peace
Page 48

[left side]
Reported

[right side]
Rhode Island 603
Patience Larkin
Widow of John Larkin
Who was a Private
In the Revolution

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of
20 Dollars [crossed out: cents]
Per annum, to commence on
The 4th day of March, 1843

Certificate of Pension issued the
27th day of June 1843
And sent to William R. Noyes
Peace Dale, South Kingston R.I.

[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book A.
Vol. A. Page 91.
Page 49

6892 Reported
Rhode Island
Patience Larkin
Widow of John Larkin dcd
[crossed out: who was a pensioner under the Act of]
And who died on the 26, Nov: 1823
Of Washington in the State of R. Island
Who was a Private in the Company
Commanded by Captain [null] of the
Regt commanded by [null] in
The R. Island Militia for 6 mos.
Inscribed on the Roll of R. Island
At the rate of 20 Dollars [null]
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day
Of March, 1836
Certificate of Pension issued the 7: day of
Dec’. 1842, and sent to W. R. Noyes, Esq Kingston R.I.
Arrears to the 3th of March 1841,
Semi-annual allowance ending 
$100.
[Act July 7, 1838.]
(reco)rded by Tho. L Moody, Clerk,
(Bo)ok A. Vol. 2 Page 13
Page 50

I John G Larkin of South Kingston Rhode Island aged 43 years being duly engaged according to law on solemn oath do testify & say, I have this day delivered to William R. Noyes my mothers attorney for obtaining her pension an ancient family Bible presented my mother by my Grandfather Capt Christopher Gardner on which a page in said Bible is the record of my Father & Mothers Marriage said page was stitched to said Bible for the purpose of a family record the page generally used for that purpose being filled by the record of ^my Late Grand Father's family. On said page or part of said Bible & under date of August 18th I have wrote my name at length in presence of William Nichols Esq. I further testify & say that said Bible has been in my keeping since the decease of my Father.
John G. Larkin 
State of Rhode Island & Washington} ss 
Town of South Kingston August 18th 1838 Then personally appeared John G Larkin and made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition which was reduced to writing in his presence & signed by him in my presence. I further certify that I am well acquainted with the deponant and know his character for truth & veracity is good & entitled to full faith & credit 
Willm Nichols Just. Peace
Page 51

Mrs Larkins
Page 52

I Gideon Palmer of Hopkinton (R.I.) Aged 56 years being duly engaged according to law on solemn oath do testify and say I was well acquainted with John Larkin formerly of Richmond R.I. and late of South Kingstown deceased & am also acquainted with Patience Larkin the widow of sd John has lived near each other many years. I remember hearing my Father the late Nathaniel Palmer (a Pensioner), frequently state when in company & conversation with said John Larkin that he my sd father was present & officiated as Brides man when said John & Patience was married heard ^him describe the wedding party &c. They was intimate. I also recollect of hearing my father & said John talk of serving together in the War of the Revolution after the intermarriage of sd John Larkin that my father stated that he left said John on duty when they had been serving together & where my father had been visiting the troops. And that he was the bearer of a message to Mrs Patience Larkin then the wife of Sd John relative to his health returned to her &c. I will remember the above stated facts as I heard them repeatedly: while they were holding social converse on a winters evening.
After I was married I lived in a house with sd John Larkin at a time when my father was visiting me. Mrs Patience Larkin came in and I well remember the conversation that ensued Particularly what my father said to her (Viz) that she sd Patience was not so gloomy low spirited as she was when he called on her to bring intelligence of her husbands safety while he was on duty in the Army. I am not positive that the last sentences contain the exact words of my Father but I do know they [crossed out: contain] convey the idea which I had often heard my father state of
Page 53

I would further testify & say. That from the conversation I heard between my father & said Larkin while together & the statements of my Father Sd Palmer when sd Larkin was not present. I firmly believe that sd John Larkin did serve his country in the war of the Revolution after the Marriages of St John and Patience.
Gideon Palmer 
Sworn to & subscribed before me 
George D Cross Chief Justice Court Common Pleas 
State of Rhode Island &c Washington} ss
South Kingstown August 14th 1840 Then personally appeared Gidion Palmer & made solemn oath in due form to the truth of the foregoing deposition by him subscribed. I further certify that the deponant is well known to me & his character for truth veracity is good 
George D Cross Chief Justice Court Common Pleas
Page 54

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations 
Washington sc Clerks office Court of Common Pleas October 19th AD 1842 
I Hereby Certify that George D Cross Esq is the Chief Justice of the Court of Common pleas for the County of Washington at the present time and has ben Chief Justice of said Court since May 1839 that he is duly commissioned by the Governor of this State and always has been since May 1839 and in all respects legally qualified to act as such and that the foregoing Signature purporting to be his is genuine, I also certify that William Nichols Esqr is one of the Justice of the Peace for the Town of South Kingston in the County State aforesaid at the present time and was of the parties of the Peace for said Town on the 18th of August 1838 that he was then and at the present time hereby commissioned by the Governor of this State and otherwise legally Qualified to act as such and that foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine in Testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and the seal of the Court the day and year above written 
Mathew Waite Clk
Page 55

571
Declaration
Mrs Patience Larkin

Admit, private $20.
Send to Wm R. Noyes
Peace Dale South Kingston
R.I.
Page 56

State of Rhode Island &c 
Washington Co.} ss. 
On this 13th day of April 1843 personally appeared before Mathew Waite a Justice of the Peace in and for the Town of South Kingston & County of Washington State of Rhode Island [crossed out: illegible] ^Patience Larkin a resident of said South Kingstown, aged 85 years, who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed on the 3d March 1843 granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War.
That she is the widow of John Larkin late of Richmond of County & State aforesaid who was a private & officer of Militia and attached to a company belonging to said Richmond and a part of the 1st Regiment of Kings County Militia and served as a private, Sergeant Ensign at several places, as shore guard against the enemy at Long Island in the State of New York, at Tiverton under Genl Spencer at Rhode Island under Genl Sullivan, and as a guard on the shore of Narragansett Bay, according to ^the [illegible] regulating the Militia of sd states. That she cannot at this late period state positively the names of the officers here husband s'd John served under but believes it was under Col. Joseph Noyes and in the Regiment formerly Command by him, and for said service, that she was in December last placed on the pension Roll under act of Congress passed July 7th 1838 at $20 per annum She further declares that she still remains, the Widow of said John Larkin 
Patience Larkin
Witnesses Matthew Waite 
Alfred Bicknell
[illegible] ward Patience were Interlined before Certifying 
Sworn to & subscribed on the day & year above written Before me Matthew Waite Justice of the Peace
Page 57

State of Rhode Island &c
Washington sc
Clerks Office Supreme 
Judicial Court April 13. 1843
I. Powell Helme Clerk of said Court within and for the County of Washington, do hereby certify that Matthew Waite Esq. is a Justice of the Peace for the town of South Kingstown in said County, and that his name subscribed to the foregoing certificate is his genuine signature.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Court aforesaid [crossed out: that his name] the day & year above written 
Powell Helme Clerk
Page 58

State of Rhode Island &c
Washington Co} ss 
South Kingston April 13th 1843. Then personally appeared Patience Parkin & made solemn oath in due form of law to the truth of the annexed declaration by her subscribed. I further certify that I am well acquainted with the declarant, & know her character for truth veracity is good-she being aged and infirm I visited her at her residence 
Witness Mathew Waite Justice Peace
Page 59

Copy
Declaration
Mrs Patience Larkin
2108521
Admd
6mo pri
20$
Act 7 July 38

Wm R Noyes
Kingston
R.I.
Page 60

State of Rhode Island &c 
Washington} S.S. 
On the 22d day of November AD 1842. personally appeared before Nathan G. Kinyon Justice of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County & State aforesaid Patience Larkin a resident of South Kingstown in the County of Washington, State of Rhode Island &c. aged Eighty Four years. who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed [crossed out: July 4th 1838 and the net resolution of] entitled an act granting half pay & pensions to [illegible] for July 7th 1838. I am the widow of John Larkin late of Richmond Rhode Island, who (as I learned from my husband said John and others that served with him,) was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, that he entered the service of his country as a private soldier of Rhode Island Militia in a company in the Town of Richmond, that he served as a private a Sergeant & Ensign at different times & places & was stationed & served at South Kingstown, Long Island N. York, Tiverton, Rhode Island (Sullivans expedition) and as a guard on the shore of Narragansett. against the enemy &c as the law required, the names of the officers he served under the length of the tours of duty I am not now able to state positively. I would further declare, that I am the daughter of the daughter of the late Capt. Christopher Gardner whose family resided during the war of sd Revolution, in the East part of South Kingstown & near the Militia Headquarters. That I first became acquainted with my husband sd John
Page 61

while he was on duty at the South Ferry & Boston Neck in said South Kingstown, and he frequently visited me at my fathers in company with the officers when he was stationed in the vicinity, and although I have not as yet been able to prove to the satisfaction of the Department that my husband said John did serve in defense of his country after my intermarriage with him. Yet I am in duty bound most solemnly to declare that my husband said John did serve several tours of duty Guarding the shores & on alarms after our intermarriage in the summer and winter following, of the year 1781 
I would further declare that I was married to the said John Larkin on the Twenty fifth day of February AD Seventeen Hundred Eighty one; That my husband the said John Larkin, died on the Twenty sixth day of November AD Eighteen Hundred & Twenty three, and I have remained a widow ever since that period, as will more fully appear by refference [sic] to the proof now before the Department and attached to a former declaration 
Patience Larkin 
Sworn to and subscribed, on the day and year above written, before 
Nathan G. Kinyon 
State of Rhode Island &c Washington} ss
South Kingstown November 22 AD 1842; then personally appeared before the subscriber, Patience Larkin & made solemn Oath in due form of law
Page 62

to the truth of the foregoing declaration by her subscribed which was reduced to writing in her presence and signed by her in my presence. I further certify that I visited her at her residence, she being aged. infirm & in feeble health, and that her character for truth & veracity is good and justly entitled to full faith & credit.
Nathan G. Kinyon Justice
Court of Common Pleas 
the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations 
W(as) hington ss Clerks office Court of Common Pleas 
December 2 AD 1842 I hereby certify that Nathan Kingston Esq is one of the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas for the County of Washington aforesaid, that he is duly commissioned by the Governor of this State and otherwise legally Qualified to act as such, and that the foregoing Signature purporting to be his is genuine. In Testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and the seal of the Court the day and year above written 
Witness Matthew Waite Clk
Page 63

Dcd
All 603
Page 64

State of Rhode Island, 
COUNTY of Washington} ss 
On this twenty sixth day of September 1848, personally appeared before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Washington Patience Larkin a resident of South Kingstown  in the county of Washington aged ninety one years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 2d of February, 1848, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war :--That she is the Widow of John Larkin who was Private in the war of the Revolution, and that she received a pension of Twenty dollars per annum, under the act of 17th of June, 1844. She further declares that she is still a widow.
Patience Larkin
Sworn and subscribed on the day and from year above written, before me,} ss.
ER Potter Justice of the Peace. 
I certify that the above named affiant is personally known to me, and that she is the same individual who drew a pension as stated by her in the foregoing affidavit. 
ER Potter Justice of the Peace 
State of Rhode Island, COUNTY of Washington} ss.
I Powell Helme Clerk of the Supreme Court of said state in the county aforesaid, being a Court of Record, do hereby certify, Elisha R. Potter Esqr is a Justice of the Peace in the county aforesaid, and is fully authorized to act in said capacity, and that his signatures above written are genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court, at South Kingston on this Twenty ninth day of September 1848 
Powell Helme Clerk
Page 65

Moses Kinyon's
Depo
P Larking's claim

[left side vertical]
Mathew Waite Clk
Page 66

I Moses [crossed out: Larkin] Kinyon of Charlestown In County of Washington & State of Rhode Island a Revolutionary Pensioner aged Eighty years. Being duly engaged according to law do testify & say I was well acquainted with John Larkin & with Patience Gardiner previous to their intermarriage. Patience was the daughter of Capt. Christopher Gardiner and said John was on duty & stated was near her fathers house when he became acquainted courted & married her. My impression is that it was in the begining of the year 1780 1781. I know it was in the winter of one of those years. That they was married recollect seeing John Larkin the husband of the present applicant on duty several times at point Judith & Boston Neck Guarding the shores against the enemy, but it is so long since that I cannot state the length of his tours of duty particularly until the year 1778 I then distinctly recollect he was on the Island of Rhode Island in the Expedition against the enemy called
Page 67

Genl Sullivans expedition that he was then & there on duty in defense of country against enemy and was an officer a Sergeant. I believe I know he was an officer and I was repeatedly an fatiauge [sic] duty with him and me sure he served one month or more. My impression & belief is that he was then attached to Colonel Charles Dyers Regiment. was also with said John Larkin on and other tour of duty in the year 1787 Guarding the Shorts at Narragansett. their was an [illegible] at that time and a part of the 1st Regiment under Col. Jesse Maxson and part of the 2d Regiment under Col Charles Dyer were called out for one month which was performed. John Larkin was then a Sergeant in a company commanded by Capt John Clark, and a relation of mine Thos W Kinyon was Ensign acting as Lieutenant of said Company from the [illegible] Town of Richmond in this state, my impression that John Larkin was orderly Sergeant that the Lieutenant was not on duty & that said Larkin was of course acting Ensign of said company
Page 68

and did serve said tour of duty of one months in said Company and stationed at Point Judith & [crossed out: illegible] quartered nearly all the time at the Stone House so called on said point-- I would also testify & say I was well acquainted with said Larkin from a boy, that he was a brave man & appeared to prefer the army to any other business.
Moses Kinyon 
State of Rhode Island & Washington} ss 
S. South Kingston July 27th 1838. This personally appeared the above named Moses Kinyon & made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition by him subscribed, which was reduced to writing in his presence & signed by him in my presence & I further certify that the character of said Kinyon for truth & veracity is good 
Matthew Chappel Just of the Peace
The name of Kinyon interlined in the first line of the above deposition was interlined previous to signing Matthew Chappel Just of the Peace
Page 69

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations 
Washington . ss Clerks Office Court of Common Pleas August 2 AD 1838 I hereby certify that Matthew Chappel Esq is a Justice of the Peace for the County of Washington and that the foregoing ^signature attached to the deposition of Moses Kinyon purporting to be his is genuine. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the Seal and office the day and year above written
Matthew Waite Clk
[right side vertical]
Moses Kinyon’s
Deposition
P Larkin’s claim