Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 16849, for John Orr, Maryland
Page 1

Md. Orr, John R16849
Pa. Elizabeth
Page 2

Virginia 16.180
John Orr
of Preston in the State of Virginia
who was a [illegible] in the company commanded by Captain Baker of the Regt. commanded by Col. Holland in the Maryland [illegible] for 6 months

Inscribed on the Roll of Virginia at the rate of 20 Dollars ~ Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 16th day of July '33 and sent Chas. Byn Kingwood Va
Arrears to the 4th of March '33 - 40
Semi anl. allowance ending 4 Sept " - 10
$50
Revolutionary Claim
Act June 7, 1832
Book E. Vol. 6 Page 20
Page 3

Kingwood Va
Nov 20th
Rec. Nov. 28th 1832
pension application
Secretary of the War Department
Washington City D.C
Page 4

Virginia Preston County towit
on this eighth day of September in the year 1832 personally appeared before the County court of the county aforesaid John Orr a resident of said county and state aforesaid aged 70 years who being duely [duly] sworn acording [according] to Law doth on his oath make the folowing [following] declaration  in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of congress passed June 7th 1832 that he entered the service of the United States under the folowing [following] named officers and served as herein stated. I was drafted ^in Baltimore county Maryland and marched to Kent^ county and served under Captain James Baker I was stationed on the delaware to prevent the british from plundering the property of the inhabitants I continued in the service one month and was discharged This was probably in the spring ^or summer^ of 1777 but of this I am not certain but recollect it was before the march of the british through New Jersey I thus Returned home where where I Resided with my father in the county of Baltimore Maryland I was afterwards drafted when the english was expected to Land at Baltimore and served under Captain James Clendenen I was stationed at Baltimore until the british disapeared [disappeared] or the aprehensian [apprehension] of them landing was over and was discharged having served about one month My Col was [blank] Holland this I think took place the summer folowing [following] after my trip to Kent My Father afterwards probably in the year 1780 moved from Maryland to Redstone in pa and then settled with [illegible] who about that time became of age in the spring of 17?2 I volunteered under Captain John Ashcroft and marched against the indians up the allegany [Allegheny] guarding the frontier against the indians and out about one month
Page 5

I then returned home and again volunteered in the 
same bring under Capt. Thomas Carroll and marched 
with Col. Crawford to the planes [plains]of Sanduskey [Sandusky] and 
then served until some there in the month of May 
and where we after a severe engagement with the in
dians were defeated in this engagement on the second 
days engagement I was [blacked out] by a ball passing through 
the lower part of my side just above the hip or 
back bone but not so as to entirely disable me Col
McClellan furnished me with a horse on which I 
in company with other made my retreat to a fort on 
the Ohio River oposite [opposite] to McClellands bottom  I there 
remained until I recovered of my wound and returned 
home in this tower [tour] I was out about three mon.
I have no knowledge of any person who has any know
ledge of my services in my two past towers [tours] or have 
I any discharge nor do I [illegible] ever had I know
of one Major Paul now living in Fayett [Fayette] County 
Pa who know of my last service and of the nature 
of the service will in able [enable] [word struck out] to a pension I can get 
that testimony.

He hereby relinquishes every claim 
to a pension except this one - and declares his name 
is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state 
Sworn to in open Court John Orr

[struck out: I] We George Brown and [stuck out: a clergyman] Reuben Morris residing in 
the County of Preston and well acquainted with John 
Orr who has subscribed and sworn to the above 
declaration that we believe his age is about 
seventy years that he is & has been reputed and believ
ed in the neighbourhood [neighborhood] where he lives to be a 
soldier of the Revolution and that we concur 
[struck out: we concur in the above opinion] in that opinion  Reuben Morris
George Brown

[Following text has been Xed through:
Qestions [Questions] by the court where were you born & 
when I was born on a [illegible] called Whitely in  
Pennsylvania but was taken when very yong [young] to 
Baltimore County Md. where I was raised  I do not 
know the exact year of my birth having no record of 
the same but from my calculation of my age as ]
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[There is an X through this material.] given to me by my parents I am now about
seventy years old I resided in Baltimore County Md when first called into service I then moved
to Redshaw pa and Resided there until about
1800 and then removed to Monongaghela, now preston County Va where I now live &c &c [/There is an X through this material.]

And the said court do hereby certify that they
are Clearly and fully of the opinion after a
full enquiry into the matter and after putting all
the questions directed by the department that the above applicant was a Revolutionary soldier viz and served as he states and further that
in it appears to them that Ruben Morris & George Brown
who has signed the preceding certificate is
[three lines drawn through] worthy of full credit
and that they resided in this county [blank] prop

I, Charles Byrne Clerk of the County Court of
Preston County in the State of Virginia do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of John Orr for a pension-
In testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and seal of office this 10th
day of October AD 1832
Charles Byrne
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John S Byrne
Son
the
Frederick County
of [faint and illegible]
Page 8

Elizabeth [illegible]
Declaration [illegible]
Pension

John [illegible]
Winchester
Frederick County 
va
Page 9

Israel Baldwin of full age appeared in open Court and being duly sworn
says that he was personally acquainted with John Orr now deceased
from the year 1824 untill his death that he knew him to have a limp or
halt in his gait as he walked and understood his lameness to have been
occasioned by a gunnshot [gunshot]  wound received by said Orr while employed as a
sales or ranger in the service of his county during the revolution or
indian war soon after and that he understood at one time said Orr
was a pentioner [pensioner] and where after his name was stricken from the list
his neighbours men of truth and probity said he was unjustly stricken
from the pension list as said Orr had without doubt been wounded in
the service of his country as he was a man of truth and correct character
the subscriber is 65 years of age and farther saith not
Israel Baldwin

William G Brown being duly sworn deposeth
and said that he was acquainted with John
Orr deceased from about 1825 until his
death appeard always heard and understood
by the neighbors of said Orr that he was a
soldier in the war of the revolution said or
more than one affiant
detailed account of his services in said
war from the appearances and character
of the old man
and from the
account be gave
of his services
affiant fully believed that he was a
soldier of the revolution and
entitled to a pension
Wm G Brown
Page 10

State of Virginia [illegible] County
[illegible] that on the [illegible] day of November AD {illegible] [illegible] appeared before the county court of [illegible] county and State of Virginia Hiram Orr a resident of said County and State aged 49 years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in [illegible] to obtain the benefits of the [illegible] [illegible] by the act of Congress [illegible] 3 March 1843. 7 July 1838. [illegible] June 1844 2 February 1848 and [illegible] February 1853 granting pensions to widows of person who [illegible] during the Revolutionary War that the said Hiram Orr for himself and Catharine Fortney. John Orr Ruth Menear, George Orr and James Orr being all the children of John Orr [illegible] and Elizabeth his Wife also deceased the said Elizabeth was the widow of John Orr who was a soldier in the Revolutionary war and was a [illegible] of the United States when the Virginia [illegible] and [illegible] in said County of [illegible] when he [illegible] a [illegible] and [illegible] to the time of his death but [illegible] to the time of his death his name was droped from the Pension [illegible] from a report of [illegible] Singleton Esq. District attorney Pension agent in which [illegible] injustice was done the said John Orr our Father was [illegible] from being shot in his left side {illegible] his hip joint as he said in [illegible] [illegible] and we often examined the [illegible] wound and the said Hiram Orr says that he believed that his Father served as stated in his declaration and was wounded as stated by him and he offers the testimony of [illegible] [illegible]  George Brown his [illegible] on that subject to counter act the afront of said Singleton he [illegible] [illegible] [illegible] to his declaration and the testimony accompaning this declaration that the said Elizabeth Orr was married to the said John Orr on the day of in the year 1790 that there marriage took place in the County of Fayette in the state of Pennsylvania that her maiden name before marriage was Elizabeth John that he has no record of there marriage but would refer to the ages of their children the said John Orr died on the 16 day of April 1840 leaving the said Elizabeth Orr his widow who continued his widow up to his death which took place in said County of [illegible] on the
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**The Due of February AD 1851**  

And my Father said that the said under **Genl. Crawford** and **Genl. Harmer**.  

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first within written before said County, being a Court of **Teste**, and **Hiram Smith Crane**, Clerk of the said Court.  

**November Term 1853** of the County Court of Preston.  

The declaration of **Hiram One**, for himself and the other heirs of **Elizabeth**, deceased, made under the provisions of the Act of Congress passed on **July 7, 1838**, **March 3, 1843**, **July 1, 1848**, and **February 3, 1848**, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War and to their children, was this day produced in Court, sworn to, and subscribed in open Court.  

Also, the deposition of **William Brown** and **Seal Baldwin** was sworn to and subscribed in open Court.  

Also came **William B. Zin**, aged **5 years**, and **George Brown**, aged **16 years**, residents of this County, who, being duly sworn according to law, say that they were personally and well acquainted with **John O.**, a soldier of the Revolution, for about **30 years** before his death.  

That he told witnesses he was a soldier of the Revolution and was wounded by the discharge of a gun. That the said wound was received by **John O.** while employed as a soldier or ranger.  

Witnesses further state that they saw the said wound, that it was near his joint, and that he walked with the same.  

The said witnesses also say that they believe he served as stated in his original declaration and that they and his neighbors knew of his service.
Page 12

Here's the reformatted transcription while preserving the original text:  

---

**Believe that injustice was was done to him when his name was dispel or stricken off of the pension roll.**  

That he was considered a credible and honourable man by all his neighbors; that said One drew a pension for about two years; that Catharine Fortney, late Catharine One, is sit years of age; that said John died on the 16th of April 1850, leaving Elizabeth On his widow, who also and in this County in the February 1831.  

Whereupon the Court, in name alien of the said declaration, depositions of the said witnesses, and this Certificates, doth order it to be certified to the Commissioner of Pensions that the said declaration, depositions, and certificates are approved by the Court.  

And the Court doth moreover certify that the said John William T. Bunn, Theal Baldwin, William Barron, and Seal Brown—a gentleman entitled to full faith and credit.  

---

**In Testimony** that the foregoing is an inscript from the records of the said Court (the same being a court of record and having a seal), I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal, as Clerk of the said County Court, on this the 28th of November, A.D. 1853.  

**Smith Carl**  
*Clerk*  

---

Let me know if you need any adjustments!
Page 13

12,900
Elizabeth Orr
Va
Act 7 July 38

Thos. Monroe, Esq.
Woodstock
Va.
Page 14



---

**State of Pennsylvania**  
**Fayette County ss**  

On the 24th day of A.D. 1846, personally appeared before me the undersigned, one of the Justices of the Peace in and for said County, Rachael McClelland, being duly sworn, deposeth and says:  

1. That Elizabeth Orr was the wife of John Orr and that John Orr was the oldest brother of this deponent, and further says that said John Orr was a soldier in the Revolutionary War and was severely wounded in Colo Crawford's defeat in the year 1782, and the deponent further states that she seen his wounds dressed very often.  

The deponent cannot say positively whether John Orr was in the Militia or regular service.  

The deponent further states that she was present at the wedding or marriage of said John Orr and Elizabeth Johns, and that they were married in January 1792. Knows this fact by her own knowledge.  

This deponent further saith not.  

The deponent sworn and subscribed the day and year above written.  

**W. Wetumph**  
℗  
**Rachael McClelland**  
*her mark*  

---
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---

**Pennsylvania**  
**Kent County**  
**Maine Potentaryof**  
The Court Mannor Pleas in and for the County of Fayette do hereby certify that W. W. Stamps, Esquire, is a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly commissioned and sworn.  

Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my name & the seal of the said Court at Miner Town, this 24th day of June, 1846.  

**& Name**  
**Protty**  

---
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State of Pennsylvania }
Fayette County } Ss

On the 24th 
day of June A.D. 1846 personally appeared 
before me the undersigned a Justice of 
the peace in and for said County John 
McClelland being duly sworn deposeth 
and says, that Elizabeth Orr was the 
wife of John Orr and that she was 
married to him in January 1792 in 
George Town Ship in this County and 
deponent further says That he recollects 
this from the fact that he was married 
the October following, and further states 
that John Orr was the oldest brother of 
his wife Rachael McClelland, and 
deponent further says he was present 
at the marriage and seen the ceremony 
performed, and Deponent further says 
that John Orr was a soldier under 
Colo Crawford and served in the campa
ign against the Indians at Sandusky Ohio 
in the year 1782. The time commonly 
called Crawfords defeat in 1782 at which 
time and in said defeat he John Orr
was severely wounded further says 
he seen him start in the campayin [campaign] 
& seen him when he returned & was 
wounded, & further says he knows of 
his serving with General Harmer in 
a campayin [campaign], against the Indians, does 
not recollect the year.  The deponent further 
saith not.  Sworn & subscribed the day & year above written
W W Stump JP [word Seal encircled]  John McClelland
Page 17

Pennsylvania
Fayette County Ss.  I  D. Kaine Prothonotary of 
the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Fayette 
do hereby certify that W W Stumph Esquire is a 
Justice of the Peace in and for said County 
duly commissioned and sworn.
In Testimony whereof I have 
hereunto set my name and 
the seal of the said Court at 
Union Town this 24th day of 
June 1846
D. Kaine
Prothy

[Notes written vertically from right to left margin]
12,900
Elizabeth Orr
Va
Act 7 July 38

Thos. Monroe, Esq
Woodstock 
Va.
Page 18

12,900
Page 19

State of Virginia }
Preston County } SS

Be it known, that on this 12th day of May 1846 
before me, the subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for the County 
aforesaid, personally appeared Elizabeth Orr, a resident of the County 
of Preston and State of Virginia, aged to the best of her recollection and 
belief seventy four or seventy five 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 acts of 
Congress, passed July 7, 1838, the 3d March 1843 and July 17th 1844,
granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the revolu
tionary war; That she is the widow of John Orr who was a 
soldier in the revolution; and who drew a pension from the United 
States and resided in the County of Preston in the State of Virginia 
when placed on the pension roll.

She also declares that she was married to the said John Orr 
to the best of her belief in the month of December in the year of 1792 
or 1793. She has no recorded evidence of her marriage and does not 
know if any recorded evidence can now be found.  She was married 
in the County of Fayette in the State of Pennsylvania.  She refers to 
the evidence accompaning [accompanying] her declaration to prove her said marriage 
her maiden name before marriage was Elizabeth Johns, that her 
husband the aforesaid John Orr died on the 14th day of April 1840,
that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but 
the marriage took place previous to the first day of January seventeen hundred 
and ninety four, viz, at the time above stated
Elizabeth her X mark Orr

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year last above men
tined before me.  Jesse Hall J. P.

I certify that Elizabeth Orr, subscriber to the above declara
tion is unable to appear in Court in consequence of old age
and bodily infirmity
Jesse Hall J. P.
Page 20

State of Virginia }
Preston County } SS

Be it known that on this 12th day of May 
1846, before me the subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for the 
County aforesaid personally appeared, Hiram Orr, and made oath 
in due form of law, that he does well know that John Orr 
the late husband of Elizabeth Orr, died on the 14th day of 
April 1840, and that the said Elizabeth Orr has never inter
married but has remained his widow ever since the death of her 
said husband and affiant further states that he does know that the 
said John Orr was a pensioner of the United States } Hiram Orr

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year last above mentioned 
before me. Jesse Hall J.P.

I certify that I am well acquainted with Hiram Orr subscriber 
to the above affidavit and he is entitled to full confidence
Jesse Hall J. P.
Page 21

At a Court held for Preston County, State of Virginia, July term 1846
"The declaration of Elizabeth Orr, made under the provision of the Acts of Cong
ress, passed on July 7" 1838, March 3d 1843 and July 17" 1844, granting pens
ions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war, together with the cert
ificate of Jesse Hall, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Preston, in the 
State of Virginia, was produced in open court, and upon examination of said declarat
ion and certificate, the court doth order that it be certified to the war department
at Washington City, that the said declaration and certificate and other proceedings 
annexed, are approved by the Court."
A Copy } Teste}
John P. Byrne Clk

Virginia,  
I, John P. Byrne Clerk of the County Court of Preston, do certify 
that the above order is a true transcript [struck out: of the] from the records of said 
Court-----
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set 
my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at 
Kingwood on this the 9" day of June in the 
year one thousand eight hundred and forty six
Jno. P. Byrne
Clerk
Page 22

Preston County Court November Term 1852 

This day, it was proven to the satisfaction of the Court by the 
testimony of George Brown, Esq and John M. Ashby, 
that Elizabeth Orr the widow of John Orr deceased, 
who drew a pension as a soldier of the Revolution in his 
lifetime that the (witness) know that the said John Orr 
deceased and Elizabeth Orr lived together as man and 
wife ever since witnesses were [word struck out] acquainted with them (being 
about fifty years) and that they are both decd.  That the said 
Elizabeth Orr died in this County on the 7" day of February 
1851 leaving the following children Ss: Catherin Fortney 
John Orr, Ruth Menear, Hiram Orr, George Orr and 
James Orr all of which is ordered to be certified

Virgina Preston County Ss. I, Smith 
Crane Clerk of the County Court of the County and State afore
said, do hereby certify that the above is a true transcript 
from the record and proceedings of said Court. [struck out: The words 
"his children" in]  In testimony whereof I have 
hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my 
official seal this 4th day of December 1852
Smith Crane
Clerk
Page 23

No. 19053

John Orr
Preston Co. Virga.

Returned
Admit as a private 
6 mos $20.

Chas Byrne Clk
Kingwood
Preston Courts
Va
Page 24

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office, 
183

Sir:

The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has 
been examined, and the papers are herewith returned.  The following is a statement of 
your case in a tabular form.  On comparing these papers with the following rules, and 
the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, 
before a pension can be allowed.  The notes and the regulations will show what is 
necessary to be done.  Those points to which your attention is more more particularly directed, 
you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: } ).  You will, when 
you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and 
you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your 
claim.

A Statement, showing the service of John Orr Preston Co. Viga
========================================================
Period when the |
service was |
rendered. |
_______________
draft 1777 } |
thinks in }   |
drafted " about |
1780 |
vol. 1782 about|
vol. about |

Duration of the |
claimant's service. |
_________________ |
Years. |
______ |
Months. |
________
1 |
 |
1 \
|
1 |
3 |
Days. |
______ |

Rank of |
the |
claimant. |
_________ |
Private |

Names and Rank |
of the Company |
officers under |
whom he served. |
_______________ |
Cap Jas |
Baker |
Cap Jas |
Clenden |
en |
Cap Jno |
Ashcroft |
Cap Thos |
Comb |

Names and Rank |
of the General |
and Field officers. |
_______________ |
Col Hol |
land |
Col Craw |
ford |
Col Mc |
Clellen |

Battles in which |
the applicant was |
engaged. |
________________ |
[illegible] the |
Indians |

Country through |
which he marched. |
_________________ |
Marchd. to |
Kent |
agt the |
Indians |
up the |
Allegheny |
Sandusky |
McClellands|
Bottom |

Place of abode |
when he entered |
the service, and age |
at the present |
period. |
__________________ |
Baltimore |
[illegible] |
70 |

Evidence by 
which the decla
ration is sup
ported.
______________
Tradition

I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant, 
J. L. EDWARDS,
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 25

2

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.

The following regulations have been adopted:

This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army,
and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers," all
persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered who were bound to military service, but not those who
were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to
Store Keepers, &c., Teamsters, Boatmen, &c.  Persons who served on board of Private Armed Vessels are
also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged
in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.

Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
1. The Regular Troops.
2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.
3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.
4. Indian Spies.

As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claim
ing the benefit of this law as officers, non commissioned officers, mucicians or privates, will in the first
instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of
Record of the County where such applicant resides.  And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is
considered a Court of Record.

DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832,

State, Territory, or District of } ss.
County of } 

On this [blank] day of [blank] personally appeared (a) before [blank]
[blank] A. B. a resident (b) of [blank] in the county of [blank] and State, Territory or District
of [blank] aged (c) [blank] years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the
following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed
June 7th, 1832.  That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) [blank], with [blank] and 
served in the [blank] (e) regiment of the [blank] line, under the following named officers :
[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers ; the time he left the service ; (and if he serv
ed under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers ;) the
town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service ; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged,
and the country through which he marched.  [index finger pointing right] This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and per
sons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.]

He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he
declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of
the Agency in the State of [blank]
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid. [blank] , A. B.

[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolu
tionary solider, and served as he states.
I [blank] of the Court of [blank]
do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of
the application of [blank] for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this
[blank] day of [blank] &c.

If, on examination of the proper record, the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be
found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.

Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia,
except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and
subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman, residing in the [blank] and C. D. residing in (the same)
hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with [blank], who has
subscribed and sworn to the above declaration ; that we believe him to be [blank]
years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier
of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.

[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after
putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revo
lutionary Soldier, and served as he states.  And the Court further certifies, that it appears, to them that A. B.
who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the [blank]
and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the [blank]
and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, [blank] Clerk of the Court of [blank] do hereby certify that the foregoing
contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of [blank]
for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal
of office, this [blank] day of [blank] &c.

Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power.  This is the original discharge or commis
sion ; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if
possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the ser
vices of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light
upon the transaction.

If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will
also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful
in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his
alleged service, as they are known at the Department.  A very full account of the services of each person
Page 26

3

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case.  The facts stated will afford one on the principal
means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be at
tempted ; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected.  
All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and there 
subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.

The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of
service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State
troops of Virginia.

1. Where and in what year were you born?
2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary
war, and where do you now live?
4. How were you called into service ; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute?
And if a substitute, for whom?
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served ; such
Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.
 {To a Soldier. { Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if  {so, by whom was it giv
6. {en, and what has become of it?
 {To an Officer. { Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom  {was it signed, and what
{has become of it?
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can tes
tify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution.

The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are
requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.

The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court,
without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons-one of whom should be
the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from
their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed
and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion.
If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the char
acter and standing of other persons giving such certificates.

The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct
proof, except the declaration of the party.  And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the
inquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.

Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration be
fore required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the 
proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to 
perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.

Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, 
or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper 
Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a 
Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is
his genuine signature. 

No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before
the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the
declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can pro
cure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period
of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the
opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.

____________________________

[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity ; in which case the declarant will fol
low the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides.  If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not
conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
{ [e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served ; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the }
{ claim cannot be had.  Every claimant must state, with  precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in  which he served, in language so }
{ definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled.  In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the }
{ loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the  following words: }
{ "Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason }
{ of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his }
{ recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades:-For ___ year ____months, and ____ }
{ days, I served as a ____.  For ____ months and ____ days, I served as a ____; and for such service I claim a pension." }
{ It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law }
{ directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service.  The use of the phrase about three or four months, }
{ is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable.  Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years }
{ in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service.  This form of a declaration is }
{ highly objectionable.  It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served ; the duration of each term of engagement ; }
{ the particular place or places where the service was performed ; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent au }
{ thority ; that he was either in the field or in garrison ; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil }
{ pursuit. }
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no pub
lic seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the
papers.

Mode of authenticating papers.

In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which con
tains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must
pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.

Proof of Service.

[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses
who are required to set forth in the affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well
as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged.  The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the wit
nesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
[index finger pointing right] The notes from [a] to [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops.  The proof required by rule in
note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[k] This traditionary evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[l] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration
Page 27

MMMHF
Rev.&1812 Wars Section 

October 21, 1925
[Handwritten note:
John Orr
R.16849]

Georgia M. Menear
No. 2 West Wilford St., 
Grafton, West Va.

Madam:

I have to advise you that from the papers in the 
Revolutionary War pension claim R. 16849 it appears 
that John Orr was born in Pennsylvania, the date not 
stated, and when very young moved to Baltimore County, 
Maryland.

While a resident of said Baltimore County he en
listed in the spring of 1777 and served one month as 
private in Captain James Baker's Maryland Company, and 
in the following summer he enlisted and served one month 
as private in Captain James Clendenen's Company under 
Colonel Holland in the Maryland Troops.

About 1780 he moved with his father, whose name is 
not given, to Fayette County, Pennsylvania (in Redstone or 
Uniontown) and served ten months as Indian Spy.  In the 
spring of 1782 he enlisted and served one month as a pri
vate in Captain John Ashcraft's Pennsylvania Company, and 
again in the same spring enlisted and served about three
Page 28

months in Captain Thomas Carr's Company, Colonel Craw
ford's Pennsylvania Regiment and was at the battle of 
Sandusky where he was wounded by a ball passing through 
his left side just above his hip.

He was allowed pension on his application executed 
September 8, 1832 while residing in Preston County, Vir
gina aged seventy years, but his name was dropped from 
the pension roll March 24, 1835, as upon re-examination 
of his claim it appeared that he did not render six 
months actual military service during the Revolution as 
required by the pension laws.  Service as an Indian Spy 
and on the frontier in 1782, not coming within the pro
visions of said laws.  He died April 14, or 16, 1840, in 
Preston County, Virginia.

Soldier married about January 1792 in Fayette Coun
ty, Pennsylvania, Elizabeth Johns or John.  She died Febru
ary 7, 1851 in Preston County, Virginia aged about eighty 
years.

The following children survived her: Hiram aged for
ty-nine years in 1853, Catharine Fortney sixty years in 1853, 
John, Ruth Menear, George and James.

Respectfully,

WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner.
Page 29

[Two columns]
[Left column]

Jan. 5/94 Mil Hist. to 
Robert Stockwell Hatcher 
Lafayette, Ind.  C

[Right column]

Revy WIDOW, &c.

File No. 5453
Jane B. Orr
Wid. 
Jehu Orr
Pri. Rev. War

Act: Feby. 2/48
Index:--Vol. M, Page 102

[ Arrangement of 1870. ]
Page 30

[Two columns]
[Left column]

16849  Revy

P.O. [Blank]
Elizabeth Orr
Service: Widow of John

Printed List of 1852 Rejected 
& Suspended claims shows 
following cause of suspension:
"No claim-[stamp REJECTED] husband was 
improperly pensioned-his 
services were after the 
Revolution."

Alleges: [Blank]
Re-enlisted: [Blank]

Attorney: [Blank]
P.O. [Blank]
[Blank] Recognized. [Blank] Contract.
[Blank] Cert. of Dis. Searched for [Blank], 18[Blank].

[Right column]

1925 July 24-Hist to Enoch
C Tetrick-MMMHF
1925-Oct. 21-Hist to Miss Georgia M.
Menear
Page 31

9312
Mississippi

Jane B. Orr
widow of John Orr
who was a private Drgns.
in the Revolution

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate 
of 80 Dollars [Blank]
Cents per annum, to commence 
on the 4th day of March, 1843.

Certificate of Pension issued 
the 10 day of Jany 1833
and sent to 
Hon. J L Orr
H of R

[ Acts of March 3, 1843, & June
17, 1844. ]
Record in Book A
Vol. [illegible] Page 223
Page 32

11,426
Mississippi

Jane B Orr 
widow of John Orr 
who died on the [blank] 1827
of [blank] in the State of [blank]
who was a Priv. of Dgns. and the [blank] commanded 
by Captain [blank] of the [blank] commanded 
by [blank] in the [blank]
line for Revolution

Inscribed on the Roll of Jackson
at the rate of 50 Dollars [blank] Cents 
per annum, to commence on the 4th day of 
March, 1836.

Certificate of Pension issued the 10 day of 
Jany 1833 and Sent to 
Hon. J. L. Orr
H. of R.

Arrears to the 4th of [blank]
Semi-annual allowance ending [blank]

{ Revolutionary Claim, }
{ Act July 7, 1838. }

Recorded by [blank] Clerk, 
Book D, Vol. 1, Page 521.
Page 33

No. 14,672
Jane B. Orr
wid of Jehu
Miss
Let to Hon J. L. Orr Aug 1 3/52

Act 7 July 1838
Page 34

V 12,900
Elizabeth Orr.
wid of John 
Va

[Following text has been lined through]
Let to T. Monroe, Aug. 20. '46.
M. W. Gamble July 11/51

Hon. Z Kidwell Dec 21 1853
J. P Byrne Nov 27/58
Hon Sherrard Clemens July 28/60
[End of text lined through]


Act 7 July '38
Page 35

[Envelope]

B [illegible mail stamp]

Elizabeth Orr
Va [illegible]

FREE 

L. P. Waldo Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington City 
D.C.
Page 36

Papers in Rev. Pension case of John Orr, Virginia list 
of Pensioners-placed on Rolls July 16 1833-Preston Co
Act of 1832 or 3
Page 37

Jane B. Orr from 
Mississippi. Filed in 
June by Hon J. L. Orr 
& add evidence filed by 
him. Act '38
Answer

Hon. J. L. Orr
Papers in the case of Jane B Orr
[initials illegible]
Kirby, Jan [illegible]
Page 38

[Incomplete image-maybe 1/4 of the image is available for transcription]

Sir:

The applicant
hart, who was a 
"Camp Washing
the benefit of 
1847, is 
That Act 
for whom volun
have
Page 39

Washington, 15th June 1852

Sir,

I enclose herewith the declaration 
of my grand mother Jane B. Orr 
for a pension for the Revolutionary 
services of my grand father Jehu 
Orr.  In consequence of the lapse of 
time since his death which occured [occurred] 
in 1827 very much of the knowledge 
of the services rendered has of course 
passed from the memory of my grand 
mother.  I see that no proof of mar
riage has been sent in but I will 
write to South Carolina where she was 
married and supply the defect.  She 
now resides in Chickasaw County 
Mississippi and you will have the 
case therefore registered from Miss
I will also write to the Comptroller Genl. of 
N. C. and if there is any evidence of 
service in his office I will forward
it also, when the case may be taken 
up for examination.  James L Orr
Page 40

Extract from the Family Record of Jehu
Orr, deceased.

"Jehu Orr was born August 1763"
"Jane B Orr was born 5th October 1775"
"The above was married 7th March 1793"

The State of Mississippi } Personally appeared 
Chickasaw County } before me Jacob 
Ault Judge of the Probate Court in & 
for the County and State aforesaid, Christopher 
Orr a resident of Cherry Hill in said County & 
State who first being duly sworn according to law 
deposeth that the above record of the marriage of Jehu and Jane B. Orr is an exact & true 
extract from the family record of Jehu Orr deceased 
who was the husband of Jane B Orr.  That said 
record is in the handwriting of Deponent made about 
the year 1821, at the request and in the presence 
of the aforesaid Jehu and Jane B. Orr.  That it 
was transcribed verbatim from the old family bible into the 
new of the said Jehu Orr which first record was 
in the handwriting of the said Jehu Orr.  That the 
said record remained in the possession of Jehu Orr 
until his death in 1827 at which time it 
came into the possession of deponent 
& has by him been since kept
Sworn to
and subscribed
Page 41

before me this 4th day of June 
1852 Jacob Ault [word Seal encircled] }
Judge of the } Christopher Orr [word Seal encircled]
Probate Court J.C. }

The State of Mississippi } I William B
Chickasaw County } Buchannan Clerk of the 
Probate Court for the County aforesaid do hereby 
certify that Jacob Ault whose genuine signature 
is annexed to the foregoing affidavit is and 
was at the date of its execution the legal and 
acting Judge of the Probate Court for the County 
aforesaid and that as such it deserves full 
faith and credit.
Given under my hand and 
the seal of said Court at 
office in the Town of Houston 
this 5th day of June 1852
Wm B Buchanan Clk
by B J Pulliam D.C.
Page 42

State of Mississippi }
Chickasaw County }

Know all men by these presents 
that I Jane B. Orr of the County and 
State aforesaid having full faith in 
the fidelity of James L. Orr, a 
representative in the Congress of the 
United States of America from 
the State of South Carolina [struck out: the]
have appointed and do by these 
presents hereby appoint him my 
special agent to receive, draw or accept 
any and all monies which can or may 
hereafter be due me as the widow of Jehu Orr 
a Revolutionary soldier from the government 
of the United States by the act or acts of the 
Congress thereof.  And I do hereby ratify, confirm 
and approve his acts as such in the premises
Given under my hand & seal 
this 4th day of June 1852
Jane B Orr [word Seal encircled]
Page 43

The State of Mississippi }
Chickasaw County }

Personally appeared before me Jacob 
Ault Judge of the Probate Court
Jane B. Orr whose genuine signature 
appears to the foregoing power of 
attorney and acknowledges that 
she signed sealed & delivered the 
same for the purposes therein 
set forth.
Given under my hand & seal 
this 4th day of June 1852
Jacob Ault [word Seal encircled]
Judge P.C.C.C. M

The State of Mississippi }
Chickasaw County } I William B Buchanan
Clerk of the probate Court of the County aforesaid do hereby 
certify that Jacob Ault whose genuine signature appears 
to the foregoing acknowledgement is and was at the date 
of its execution the legal and acting Judge of the Probate 
Court for the County aforesaid & that in that 
capacity full faith & credit should be given to his 
act.  Given under my hand & the seal 
of said Court at office in the Town 
of Houston this 5 day of June 1852.
W B Buchanan Clerk 
by B L Pulliam D.C
Page 44

Washington 11th July 1852

Sir:

I have the honor to enclose you here
with, the evidence of the service of my 
grand father Jehu Orr in the revolu
tionary war from the Comptroller Genl
of N. C. where the service was perform
ed also the evidence of Wm. F. Clinkscales 
proving the marriage of Jehu Orr 
with Jane B. Clinkscales.  Mr. 
Clinkscales is a citizen of high 
respectability and is from his appear 
ance upwards of seventy years of 
age.  The above evidence is supple
mental to be used in the applica
tion of Jane B. Orr my grand mother 
for a pension whose Decl. I forward 
ed you some two week since.
Your &c
James L Orr.

P.S. I also forward you a statement 
made out by myself
Page 45

State of North Carolina 
{ Comptroller's Office 

I, William J. Clarke, Comptroller of Public Accounts 
in and for the State aforesaid, do hereby certify that 
it appears of record in my office, among the payments 
made by said State to sundry persons for military 
services in the Revolutionary War, as follows, to wit:
Jehu Orr
Indent or Army Certificate No. 1333 issued by auditors 
of Hillsborough District £9 S2 specie
Ditto No. 1377 £13 S13 specie
Book No. 10 page 26 J. Orr £9 specie
" G " 18 " 58 " £8 S14"

[Blurred seal of office] In testimony whereof I have here
unto subscribed my name and 
affixed my seal of office this 30th 
day of June A.D. 1852.
Wm. J. Clarke Comptr.
Page 46

Brief in the case of Jane B. Orr
[blank] County and State of Mississippi 
act [blank]

Claim, ("original," or "for increase.")

Proof exhibited, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls?  If either, state the substance.
Record proof of service & marriage

(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim?  If so, what?

Name and residence of Agent
Hon J. L. Orr  S. Cole
H of R  Examining Clerk.
Page 47

Jno. P Byrne
Nov. 27
Page 48

Pension Office.
Novr. 27, 1858

Sir:

I have filed the affidavit of David 
Minear in support of the claim of Elizabeth Orr, widow 
of John, of Va., under the pension act of July 7th 
1838.  This affidavit is to the effect that John Orr 
was about six months in the campaign of Crawford's
defeat.  Orr himself esteemed the duration of his 
service in this tour at two months.  This leaves his 
actual service, as estimated by himself, but not all proved,
at five months only.  The claim remains suspended.

John P. Byrne, Esq.
Morgantown 
Va.
Page 49

House of Representatives:
Washington,  Feb 25 1860.

Hon. Geo. C. Whitney

Sir:

Enclosed please find 
a letter in the case of Jno Orr.

It was to be an application of 
the heirs of Jno. Orr whose name 
was taken off the roll, upon the 
report of the District Attorney of 
the Western District of Va. W. C. 
Singleton.

Please send me an official ans
wer on the subject.  No rights descends 
to the heirs, and I suppose a special 
act will only reach the case.

Very Resp. Yours
Sherrard Clemens
Page 50

Hon Wm G Morgan
March 12 1836

Record [illegible] [number 31 encircled] page 278
Page 51

Department of War
Pension Office 
March 12 1836

Sir

In reply to your enquiry relative 
to the claim of Jno Orr of Preston Co. I have the 
honor to state, that from the several statements of Mr. 
Orr it is conclusive that he did not serve six months, 
unless, the [illegible] a claim for services as an Indian Spy 
not mentioned at all in his original declaration; against 
which there are very strong objections.

I informed Mr. Orr by letter on the 21st 
of Decr last of these facts, and these reasons why his 
name had been dropped from the roll.

I have the honor to be 
Respectfully

Hon Wm S Morgan
House Representatives
Page 52

Jno Orr
Decr 21 1835
GC

Record [number 31 encircled] page 65
Page 53

Depart of War
Pension Office
Decr 21 1835

Sir:

In reply to your letter of the 30th ulto. upon the 
subject of your claim I have to state, that your name 
was dropd [dropped] from the pension roll, after you had made 
your statement to Mr Singleton.  In that statement 
you allege that you served two tours of one 
month each, and one tour of 2 months under Colo
Crawford.  You further claim for service as an Indian 
Spy, not named in your original declaration and 
of course is disallowed, leaving you with less than 6 mo.

There is also much discrepancy between your 
two statements respecting your service.  In your 
1st you say that you enlisted in the spring under 
Col Crawford and returned him in May, having 
served about 3 mos.  From all the facts it seems 
certain that your service did not amount to 
6 mo. and of course not entitled [struck out: under the act] to a 
pension.  [illegible]

Jno Orr
Kingwood
[illegible]
Page 54

Hon A Stewart
Nov 20 35

GC

Record [illegible] [number 31 encircled] page 4
Page 55

War Dept
Pension Office
Nov. 20 1835

Sir:

In reply to the enquiry as to the cause 
of stopping the pension of John Orr, I have to inform you that 
his first and last declaration vary materially as to the 
length of the service he performed.  In his first declaration 
he made out four months more of service than he did 
in his declaration made more recently before the District 
Attorney Mr. Singleton.  If he will give an explanation 
his case will be re examined.  In case he should 
make a new declaration, he need not mention 
any part of his alleged service as an Indian 
Spy.  [struck out: The latter part of the] Such service as he states 
Indian Spy service is not such as the law 
contemplates.

I have the honor

Hon A. Stewart
Union Town
Penna.
Page 56

Envelope with notes]
Jno. Orr
Va
Nov 21 1835

[math calculation]
>>-1+1=2
8 2 1
3

Kingwood Va }
Decr 10th }
Dec 15
Va

[Address]
Free
To the Secretary of War 
pension } Washington 
claim } D C
Page 57

Kingwood [illegible]

Sir:

It is extremely painful [illegible] against a 
[illegible] you on the subject of my pension and would
to god I never had but but having made my declaration 
with all the formalities required by your department 
and it being accredited their [there]; I cannot now consent [consent] 
to see it invalidated & my reputation brought into 
infamy and disgracing without using all the means 
in my power to prevent it.  But I know not the 
point or ground on which my veracity is [illegible] I
therefore have to grapple with my enemy in [illegible] though 
who he is I know not and this I can only say 
that I have been hopping on one leg for near fifty 
years gathering a scanty subsistence on my little 
farm frequently telling the short history of my services 
in the revolution which history you have and 
thought he was not an individual of my acquain
tance who ever doubted the trust of it
But sir I now offer to you the evidence of 
James Collins an old felow [fellow] soldier who knew 
me in the army in 1782 and who like myself was 
wounded in Crawfords defeat  he Collins is now 
drawing his pension.  If this will not do I think 
the whole community in which I live will sustain 
my good character for truth.  I would
Page 58

not hold this language with you if I was not 
fully satisfied that you have every wish to do 
me justice.  I would be glad if you would 
[illegible] with my declaration the affixed and here 
inclosed [enclosed]  Your obedient servant
John Orr
Page 59

War Department
Pension Office
May 23d 1835

Sir

[words struck out]
In reply to your enquiry as to the reasons 
for dropping John Orr from the roll under the 
act of 1832 I have to state that it appears by his 
narrative [words struck out] transmitted by Mr Singleton confirmed with his original declaration that 
he only performed two months actual service 
during the war of the revolution.  He subse
quent service [words struck out] not being provided for by law, the 
payment was necessarily stopped.  On [word struck out[ further 
calculation a [illegible] a reexamination will be 
made.

Evidence in this or the cases of Andrew
Johnson & John Hartman must be [word struck out] sworn before a mag
strafe [struck out: and] authorised [authorized] by law to administer oaths and 
whose signature & official character must be duly 
certified by the proper official under his seal of office.  It should appear by the statement of the 
mag
Page 60

magistrate whether the witnesses are credible, 
[word struck out] and they should state the facts in 
detail [illegible] their [illegible] of knowledge.

[Note written vertically in left margin]
Record [illegible] page 51

[Note written vertically in right margin]
W G [illegible]
23 May 
E.C.

Wm. G. Brown Esq.
Kingwood 
Va
Page 61

Feby 28
Page 62

Pension Office, }
Feby 28th 1860 }

Sir:

In answer to the enclosed letter of 
the Hon. W. G. Brown respecting the claimant of 
a pension upon the service of John Orr decd. in the 
war of the Revolution, I have the honor to inform 
you that John Orr was dropped from the Pension Rolls
upon "in actual service as estimated by himself
but not all proved, as five months only."

If the widow of the John Orr be dead, the heirs 
neither of the soldier nor widow can now establish 
a claim.

Hon. Sherrard Clemens
H. of Reps.
Page 63

Thos Monroe
Aug 20, 1845
Page 64

Pension Office,
August 20, 1845

Sir,

The declaration and testimony forwarded 
by you, in the case of Mrs. Elizabeth Orr, 
have been examined in connection with the 
papers upon which pension was heretofore 
granted to her husband, John Orr.

This investigation has resulted in a con
viction that [struck out: the] a large proportion of the 
service originally claimed by Orr was not of 
that character which brings it within the 
provisions of the Pension laws, it having 
been rendered after the close of the Revolution, 
by his own sharing a fact which came to light upon his exam
ination before the agent of the Department.
The remainder is not sufficient to convey a 
pension, and it is [word struck out] almost certain that no 
evidence can be addressed which will justify 
the [struck out: granting] Dept. in granting a pension in 
this case.

Thos. Monroe, Esq.
Woodstock, Va.
Page 65

Hon Z. Kidwell
Dec 21/53
Page 66

349
Pension Office
Dec 21 8153

Sir

I return Mr. Bryne's letter and have the 
honor to inform you that John Orr of
Va. was improperly placed upon the roll 
of pensions in 1833, when the nature of 
the service for which he claimed was 
not as well understood as it was after 
wards.  From his own showing he did not 
serve six months in a military capacity 
during the war of the Revolution; the larg
er portion of his service having been ren
dered against the Indians after the 
close of the war. [Note written vertically in 
left margin of this paragrap] Elizabeth Orr

{ The condition of the case of Eliza }
{ beth Reckhart was reported to Mr }
{ Byrne on the 10th inst. (the day his }
{ letter of you bears date). } [Note written vertically 
in left margin of this paragraph] Elizabeth Reckhart

Hon Z Kidwell
H of R
Page 67

Kingwood Preston County Ss

On this 12 day of October A.D. 1858 personally appeared before 
me Peter M Hartley a Justice of the Peace in and for 
said County David Minear aged Ninety three years a resident 
of said County, who being duly sworn according to law, 
says that affiant was personally well acquainted with 
John Orr now deceased from the [struck out: year]I was aquanted [acquainted] with him from a boy year 1782 up to 
the time of the death of said John Orr, who died in said County, 
when affiant first became acquainted with said John Orr he 
was a boy only 16 years old that they lived in the County 
of Fayette in the State of Pennsylvania affiant knows 
that said John Orr left him home in the year 1782 and 
joined the United States army under Crawford that 
said John Orr was about from home about six months 
that when said Orr returned he was wounded in his 
left side by a bullet shot, he has frequently seen said 
Orr dress said wound and affiant has also dressed it, 
said Orr told affiant that he was in Crawfords defeat 
that he received said wound in said battle and affiant 
knows that he was home from that time or from the time 
affiant first saw him after the defeat of Crawford until 
the death of said Orr, affiant believes that he was a 
soldier in the war of the Revolution and that injustice 
was done him by the Honl. W. G. Singleton on his report
on his case, affiant has no interest in application of the 
heirs of said John Orr decd for the pension money due 
their father  David his X mark Minear
Page 68

Sworn and subscribed to before me on the 12 day of 
[struck out: September] October 1858 and I certify that said David Minear 
is a credible witness and that I have no interest in 
said applicant for a pension
Peter M Hartley J. P.

State of Virginia }
County of Preston } Ss I Smith Crane Clerk of the 
County Court for the 
said County in the state aforesaid do certify 
that Peter M. Hartley Esq before whom the 
foregoing affidavit was made was at the date of the same a Justice 
of the Peace in and for said County, duly author
ized by law to take acknowledgements and 
administer oaths, and that his name thereto sub
scribed is his genuine signature
In Testimony whereof I have 
hereto subscribed my name 
and affixed my official seal 
this 19 day of October 1858

[Note at bottom of page]
Elizabeth Orr widow 
of John Orr decd
additional evidence 
application for Rebolution
ary pension under the act of 
July 7th 1838
John P Byrne agent 
Morgantown Va
Page 69

No 14,672
Jane B Orr,
wid of Jehu 
Miss
Act 7 July 38 &c
Married 1793
Husd died 1827
Let 13. Augt. 1852

Adm 1 yr pen Dgns $50.
per annum. comg 4th 
March 1831.
Acts
38
43 & 44
48

Hon J L. Orr
H of Reps
Page 70

State of South Carolina }  On this the first day of 
District of Anderson }  July A. D. one thousand 
eight hundred and fifty two, personally appeared 
before me, a magistrate for the District of Anderson, and 
State aforesaid, William F. Clinkscales Esq a resident 
of the District and State aforesaid, and made oath 
that he was well acquainted with Jehu Orr, and 
Jane B. Orr.  That he was present at, and 
witnessed their marriage, and that they were married 
in due form, according to law, by he believes, William 
Halbert, a magistrate for Pendleton District and 
State aforesaid, at the residence of Frances Clinkscales 
then in the District of Pendleton (now Anderson) and 
State aforesaid, that they lived together as man 
and wife and were so reputed, that the name 
of the widow, before her said marriage, was Jane 
B. Clinkscales, and that from a letter received 
by him of the sixth of June and year 
aforesaid, he has good reason to believe that 
she is still living.  He also makes oath 
that it has ever been currently reported that 
Jehu Orr served in the war of the Revolution.
Sworn to & subscribed Wm F Clinkscales
before me July 1st 1852
J. T. Whitfield
M. And.

State of South Carolina } I, Elijah Webb, Clerk 
Anderson District } of the Court of Common 
Pleas, and General Sessions for Anderson District in the 
State aforesaid that J. T. Whitefield Esqr, before whom the 
preceding affidavit was made, as appears by his name 
in his own handwriting attesting the same, was at 
the date thereof a Magistrate for the District 
aforesaid, who had been duly appointed and
Page 71

qualified, and had signed the Roll kept according 
to law in my office.  I further certify that 
I believe the within affidavit to be true and
correct.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and 
seal of office at Anderson Court House, on 
this the fifth day of July, A.D. one thousand 
eight hundred and fifty two, and in the 
seventy seventh year of American Independence
Elijah Webb
CC&G.S.A.D.
Page 72

Monongalia County [illegible]

This day James Collins aged about 
seventy three came before me the undersigned Justice 
of the peace in & for the said County of Monongalia and 
after being duly sworn according to law deposeth & 
sais [says] that he is now acquainted with one John 
Orr of Preston County and that he knew him 
in the spring of seventeen hundred & eighty two he 
belonged to a body of troops that marched from the 
neighbourhood [neighborhood] of Union Town Pa. against the 
Indians he also knew him after Crawfords defeat 
he recolects [recollects] of seeing the surgen [surgeon] dress his wound 
which he received in said defeat  This afiant [affiant] 
being wounded in the same engagement 
Shortly after said Orr got well he left the 
neighbourhood [neighborhood] in which this affiant resided 
That affiant saw said Orr a few days since 
& know him to be the same individual
James Collins

I the undersigned Justice of the peace in & for 
the said County of Monongalia do certify that 
the above affidavid [affidavit] of John Collins was sworn 
& subscribed before me & that the affiant is a 
man of undoubted veracity & good character 
Given under my hand this the 16th day of 
Novmr. 1835  Aaron Barker, JP

Virginia

I Thomas P Ray, clerk of the County court of Monon
galia, do certify that Aaron Barker is an acting 
Justice of the peace in and for said county, and that the 
above signature purporting to be his is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto signed 
my name and affixed the seal of said court at Morgan
town the 16th of November 1835.
Thos. P. Ray
Page 73

[Envelope with note]

[Note written vertically in left margin]
Nov 9
[illlegible] attention
Jno. Orr
Va roll
16180

[Circular mail stamp]
[illegible]ONTOWN 
NOV
6
Pa.

free
J. L. Edwards Esq
Commission  of Pensions 
War Dept
Washington City
D.C
Page 74

Union Town Pa
Nov 5 1835

Dr. Sir.

I am requested by John Orr of Preston 
County Virginia to inquire of you upon 
what ground & for what reason his pension has 
been discontinued, and what is required by the 
department to procure its restoration
Yours respectfully
Andw. Stewart

J. L Edwards Esq
Comsr. of Pensions 
War Dept.
Page 75

[Envelope with note]
Kingwood Va }
May 17th }  Free

[Note written vertically in left margin]
Va May 22

Hon J L Edwards comsr.
of pensions
Washington City 
DC
Page 76

Kingwood May 11th 1835

Dr Sir

I am desired by Mr Orr a pensioner from 
Preston County Va. whose pension has been discon
tinued to ask from the department the reasons or
ground of dropping him from the roll.  Since  
he made his declaration he has heard of 
James Collins a pensioner from Monongalia County 
Va. also Col. James Paul of Fayette County Pa. 
both of which know of his services.  If there [their]
evidence will be of any account if the depart
ment would direct the manner of taking & 
certifying it [repeated: it] will be forwarded.  Mr
Orr was wounded in Crawfords defeat & he 
thinks he is entitled to be placed on the list 
of the wounded & disabled soldiers of the Revolu
tion he can prove the wound but the 
manner of making the application he does not 
know.  If it can be had he would like to 
have a copy of Mr Singleton's report in his case

There is the cases of Andrew Johnson & John 
Hartmans discontinued if evidence of their service 
could reinstate them they would endeavor by 
sending on to Philadelphia to procure such
Page 77

evidence as might be satisfactory to the 
department

Wm G Brown
Page 78

Preston County To wit

This day personally appeared before me a Justice 
of the peace in and for said County John Orr an 
aplicant [applicant] for a pension who being duly sworn 
deposeth and sais [says] that by reason of old age 
and consequent loss of memory he cannot say 
positively to the precise length of time he served 
but according to the best of his recolection [recollection] he 
served not less than six months as a private 
soldier as follows one month drafted in the 
year as well as now recolected [recollected] 1777 also one 
month when the british was expected to land 
at Baltimore also one month as a volunteer 
with Capt Ashcraft.  Also three months 
under Captain Carr and for such service 
he claims a pension.  Given under my hand 
this 17th day of [struck out: May] June 1833
Chls. Hooton J.P.

Virginia Preston County To wit

I Charles Byrne clerk of the County Court of Preston do hereby  
certify that Charles Hooton Esqr. before whom the foregoing 
affidavit appears to have been made and whos [whose] name 
is thereto subscribed was at the time of the date 
thereof one of the acting Justices of the peace in and 
for said County duly commissioned & sworn into office 
To all whoes [whose] official acts as such full faith and 
credit is due and ought to be given as well in 
Courts of Justice as thereout.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto 
set my hand and affixed the seal of 
office done at Kingwood this 17th 
day of June AD 1833.
Charles Byrne
Page 79

Jno. Orr. - Pen
Preston Cty
Entitled
Page 80

John Orr [illegible] $30.

I the undersigned John Orr, at the requis
ition of the Secretary of War, give the following statement of 
my age and Revo. services to wit-- I am upward of 
seventy years of age, perhaps 75.  I am a native of Pensylv
ania [Pennsylvania] removed to Maryland when young.  Then at age 25 
year of age, went back to Pen Uniontown.

In the year 1777 I was drafted for one month and 
marched from [illegible]County Maryland under Capt. Baker 
to the head of Elk. there were other companies at that station 
under Col. Holland of Balto.

In the next succeeding summer I was at Balto. for 
one month under Capt Clendening-this was all the 
service I done East of the Allegany [Allegheny] Mountains.  After 
my removal to Uniontown this day 25 years ago, I 
was an Indian Spy for ten months
and was afterwards a volunteer for two months in
this last service I was at Crafords [Crawfords] defeat & was wounded 
by a ball poping [popping] through my side & thus ended my service.
W. G. Brown [illegible] my declaration.  I gave all the 
[illegible] statement I was given-[illegible] $52. & kept $20.

In [illegible] of which I hereto subscribe my 
name August 6. 1834
John Orr.

A copy W. [illegible]
[illegible] 25. 1834
Page 81

Clarksburg November 22, 1834

James L Edwards Esq

Sir,

The mail which has [illegible]
this [illegible] [illegible] brought yours of the 17th & 19th inst.
I have only [illegible] before this [remainder of sentence illegible]
their [illegible] and to state


Jno. Orr - Pen
Preston Cty
Entitled
Page 82

(Copy)

July 11, 1851

M. W. Gamble, Esq., 
Moorefield, Va.

Sir:

No papers have been received here in the 
case of Elizabeth Orr since 1846.

F. S. Evans
for Com.

Triplett.
Page 83

[illegible]
O, W, and N. Division.

Department of the Interior,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS, 
Washington, D. C., Decr, 1893

Sir,

In reply to your request for a statement of the military history of 
[struck out: John] Jehu Orr, a soldier of the Revolutionary War, you will 
please find below the desired information as contained in the application for pension
on file in this Bureau.  by his widow W.5453

DATES OF |
ENLISTMENT. |
_____________ |
In 1779 & 1780 |

LENGTH |
OF SERVICE. |
____________ |
12 mo |

RANK. |
______ |
Pri |

OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. |
_______________________________________________ |
CAPTAIN. |
_________ |
Malmady |
COLONEL. |
__________ |
Cavalry |

STATE.
______
N.C.

No other details stated

Battles engaged in, none stated

Residence of solder at enlistment, Wake County, N.C.

Date of application for pension, by widow June 1852

Residence at date of application of widow, Cherry Hill Chickasaw County Miss'pi

Age at date of application, He born in N.C. Augt. 1763 & died March 18, 1827 from a stab by Uriah 
[struck out: Remarks:] Sligh Feby 12, 1827. Married March 7, 1793 to Jane B. Clickscales in S.C. She
born Oct. 5, 1775.  He moved in 1785 to S.C. & She in Dec. 1843 to Chickasaw Co Miss'pi.  Their
grandson, John L. Orr was Rep. in Congress from S.C in 1852 & at one time candidate for Speaker.

Very respectfully,

Commissioner.

Mr. Robert S. Hatcher 
Lafayette
Inda.

7941b-3m
Page 84

C.
OWX [illegible] Div

[Circular mail stamp]
PENSION
NOV
U 24 S
1893
OFFICE.
Page 85

She (Mrs. Mortimer Levering) 
has requested my wife to assist 
her in obtaining further 
information concerning the 
military records of [struck out: their] her 
ancestors.

We have obtained data 
concerning them from 
the state officials of 
Massachusetts and North 
Carolina, but are anxious 
to know what is of record 
concerning them in the possession 
of the Federal Government.

I have the honor to remain
Your obedient servant

Robert Stockwell Hatcher
Page 86

Farmington, W.Va
May 26-1925

O.W. and N
Division - 3-525
Dept. of the Interior 
Bureau of Pensions
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen:  I wish to know if John Orr or 
John Dale Orr either of them have a revolutionary 
war record.  was either of them listed as a soldier 
or pensioner.  they were from Pa.

And I further wish to know if one David 
Minear (or Menear or Mynheer) or spelled in any 
manner so it could be pronounced the same or 
any other Menear has a R. W. history.  He came
I think for Bucks Co. Pa.

If you find any history of any one of them 
or all of them will you kindly send me a copy 
and oblige.

Yours Respectfully 

Enoch C. Tetrick
[Circular mail stamp]
PENSION 
S
MAY
U. 28 S.
1925
OFFICE
Page 87

[Letterhead]
J. C. LEWELLEN, President  H. R. LINN, Vice-President  M. L. SHIELDS, Vice-President

THE TAYLOR COUNTY BANK
CAPITAL $50,00.00

Grafton, W. Va.
N. F. KENDALL, Cashier  Sept. 10, 1925

United States Department of Interior, 
Bureau of Pensions, 
Washington, D. C.

Gentlemen:

Please let me have the war record as you have it of 
John Orr, of the Revolutionary War, he was born in Pennsylvania 
and later moved to Virginia, also the names of his children.
Very respectfully,

Georgia M. Menear
(Miss) Georgia M. Menear,
No. 2 W. Wilford St.,
Grafton, W. Va.

[Circular mail stamp]
PENSION 
A
SEP
U. 12 S.
1925 
OFFICE
Page 88

Rev. and 1812 Wars Section MMHF
AW

July 24, 1925

Enoch C. Tetrick
Farmington, West Va.

Sir:

I have to advise you that from the papers in the 
Revolutionary War pension claim R. 16849 it appears 
that John Orr was born in Pennsylvania, the date not 
stated, and when very young moved to Baltimore County, 
Maryland.  [Note regarding where John Orr was born written
vertically in right margin: did not use Whitely Creek as 
it was crossed out]

While a resident of Baltimore County, Maryland he 
enlisted in the spring of 1777 and served one month as 
private in Captain James Baker's Maryland Company, and 
in the following summer he enlisted and served one month 
as private in Captain James Clendenen's Company under 
Colonel Holland in the Maryland Troops.

About 1780 he moved with his father, whose name is 
not given, to Fayette County, Pennsylvania (in Redstone or 
Uniontown) and served ten months as Indian Spy.  In the 
spring of 1782 he enlisted and served one month as pri
vate in Captain John Ashcraft's Pennsylvania Company, and 
again in the same spring enlisted and served about three
Page 89

months in Captain Thomas Carr's Company, Colonel 
Crawford's Pennsylvania Regiment and was at the battle 
of Sandusky where he was wounded by a ball passing 
through his left side just above his hip.

He was allowed pension on his application executed 
September 8, 1832 while residing in Preston County, 
Virginia aged seventy years, but his name was dropped 
from the pension roll March 24, 1835, as upon a re exam
ination of his claim it appeared that he did not render 
six months actual military service during the Revolution 
as required by the pension laws.  Service as an Indian 
Spy and on the frontier in 1782, not coming within the 
provisions of said laws.  He died April 14, or 16, 1840
in Preston County, Virginia 

Solider was married about January 1792 in Fayette Coun
ty, Pennsylvania, Elizabeth Johns or John.  She died Feb
ruary 7, 1851 in Preston County, Virginia, aged about 
eighty years.  [Note regarding year 1792 written vertically 
in right margin and top of page:  I used this instead of actual 
dates as the widow was uncertain when she said Dec. 1792
or 93-[illegible] she [illegible] of 1792 & 93-& son Hiram 
who said 1790 was wrong]

The following children survived her: Hiram aged for
ty-nine years in 1852, Catharine Fortney sixty years in 
same year, John, Ruth Menear, George and James.

Respectfully, 

WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner.

[Note at bottom of page]
(Sol. had sister
Rachel who mar
John McClelland)
Page 90

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES
Form VAM-51
12-5-41

BOUNTY LAND WARRANT RECORD CARD*

Division of Veterans Administration Archives

NAME Orr, John  GRADE Private  LINE New Jersey

WARRANT
NUMBER 8616  ACREAGE 100 ISSUED June 22, 1789
to - not shown -

______
*The information concerning the issuance of warrants carded on this form is found in volumes 2 to 4 of "Land Warrants Issued Prior to 1800" which are 
registers of bounty land warrants issued to non commissioned officers and privates under congressional resolutions of September 16, 1776, and subse
quent dates.  Other records relative to the applications for warrants appear to have been destroyed in the War Department fire of November 9, 1800. 
Information concerning warrants surrendered to the Federal Government is to be found in General Land Office records in The National Archives.