Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 6086, for Prudent La Jenness, New York
Page 1

(3-1776)

SERVICE  
Canadian

La Jenness, Prudent
or
La Jennesse
New York residence

NUMBER  
R. 6086

CONTENTS
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16304
Capt. Prudent La Jenness
Clinton County
New York

Let. 5. Sept. 34 To J. Watson

C. K. Averille
Rouses Point
New York
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[printed form, blanks filled by hand]

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. These points to which your attention is 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.

[Table of Service]
A Statement, shewing the service of Prudent La Jennesse Clinton City, N [Y]
[column headings]
Period when the service was rendered 
Duration of claimant's service. Years. | Months. | Days. 
Rank of claimant 
Names and Ranks of the Company officers under whom he served. 
Names and Ranks of the General and Field officers. 
Battles in which the applicant was engaged. 
Country through which he marched. 
Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at the present period.
Evidence by which the declaration is supported.

[data presented in a narrative format]
Served in 1775 for 1 year as Capt under Gen. Montgomery, was in the battle of Ceder War, marched thru Canada, was 15 and lived in Montreal Lower Canada, evidence is Documentary

I am, respectfully
Your obedient servant,
J. L. Edwards
Comissioner of Pensions
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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 and 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, claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians 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 County of }ss.
On this day... of .... personally appeared (a) before  ....A.B. a resident (b) of ...  in the county of ... and State, Territory or District of ... aged (c) ... 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) ... ,  with ... and served in the ... (e) regiment of the ... 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 served 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. >This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons 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
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid. 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 revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I ... of the Court of do ... hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of ... for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this...  day ... of ... &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 ... and C. D. residing in (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with ... , who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be ... 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 day 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 Revolutionary 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 and that C.D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the ... and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, ...  Clerk of the Court of ... do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of ... for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this ... day of ... &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but it 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 services 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
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3
 will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; 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.
6. To a Soldier. Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given 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 testify 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 character 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 enquiry 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 before 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 procure, 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 follow 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 bis 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 mouths 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 au embodied corps called into service by competent authority that lie 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 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 public 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 contains 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 their 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 witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office. The notes from [a] to [j] 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.

K Newnaw
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16304
Capt. Prudent La Jenness
Declaration [illegible]
N.Y.
Act 7 June '32
Page 7

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress, passed June 7 1832

State of Newyork
County of Clinton } ss On this 4th day of October A.D. 1832 personally appeared in [illegible] Court, before the Judges or Justices of the Court of Common Pleas in & for the County of Clinton now sitting : Prudent La Jennesse a resident at the County from House in the town of Beekmantown in said County of Clinton and State of Newyork aged ninety five 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 Act of Congress, passed June 7th 1832. That he entered the service of the United States under the following named Officer, and served as herein stated, that he was born at Montreal in the Province of Lower Canada [illegible] 1737 - that he has no records of his age, that when he was called into Service he resided at Montreal. in the province of Lower Canada, that since the Revolutionary war has lived at Mantrea, Quebec, in Champlain in the State of Newyork and now resides at the [illegible] House aforesaid ; that he collected together a company of Canadian volunteers in 1775, and joined the army under the command of General Montgomery at Crown Point & Ticonderoga, that General Montgomery under his own hand  gave him a Commission of a Captain at Ticonderoga & before his army moved to Canada - that he had the command of the same men he brought with him from Canada, that he provided with the Army of Genl Montgomery to St Johns ; that he was ordered by the Commanding General to reconnoitre the fort at Chambly and did so & returned with information to said Generals; that the fort was immediately taken at Chambly ; that the army then went to Montreal which was abandoned by the English troops - Genl Montgomery continued on to Quebec - He was left with other troops to garrison Montreal while the American Army proceeded to Quebec as aforesaid; that prisoners were sent by the commanding General to Montreal & deponent was ordered to convey them to Albany & dispatches to Congress then setting at
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Philadelphia- that he went to Philadelphia & returned again to Montreal & continued there until the retreat of the American Army from Quebec when he again joined the Army & came with them to Albany in the summer of Seventeen hundred and seventy six. that while in Albany his men enlisted some for the war, some for a shorter period & some quit this company & went into other companies in Col Hazen & Livingston Regiments & he was left without command - that he served as a Captain of said volunteer Company without being attached to any particular Regiment as he now remembers. - that he so served for better than one year & particularly from the time he joined Genl Montgomery at Ticonderoga as aforesaid until after said Army returned to Albany - the date of his entering the service at Ticonderoga leaving it at Albany he cannot recollect. he continued in the service of the United States till the close of the war after giving up his command of the company aforesaid & as superintendent of the government Baking Establishment at West Point.  he recollects the following named officers with whom he served, Col Livingston, Captain Quarterfare . Lieut Guilomat & Majr Marles Col Hazen.
that he received a commission of Captain as aforesaid signed by Genl. Montgomery Commanding General of the Northern Army. and lost at in the service before or about the time of his entering the government Baking Establishment at West Point. that his mental faculties are to such decayed he cannot [illegible] to all the circumstances of his service that the names of persons to whom he is known in his present neighbourhood, & who can testify as to the character re veracity & their [illegible] in his services as an officer in the Revolution are Gace G. Hall & Daniel Peters - that he has no documentary evidence of his Service except a Certificate under the name of Brigadier General Paterson, who certifies that he knew deponent as a Lieutenant or Captain , in Canada

[down left margin]
Interlineation affidavit made before signing
Geo. M. Beckwith acting clerk
Page 9

and is position that he served in the American Cause in one of these capacities. And another certificate, under the hand of Capt Peter Quaterfage, Lieutant Guilimat in Col Hazen Regt & N. Merlet Major of Militia, stating that they knew him to have served in the army aforesaid & was a Captain. and he further says that he commanded a company of men as aforesaid at the battle of the Ceedar - & was in some skirmish at St Johns Chambly then was in no other engagements. He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present & declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the Agency of any State -

Prudent x his mark La Jennese

Sworn to & his mark, made the day & year aforesaid in open Court before me -
Geo. M. Beckwith acting Clerk of Clinton County

[in left margin] Interlineation apposite made before signing } do
Geo M Beckwith acting clerk

Mr Isaac C. Platt & David Peters - residing in Beckwater and having charge of the County Poor house aforesaid hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with Prudent La Jennesse
who has subscribed & sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be ninety five- years of age; that he is reputed &
believed, in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a Officer of the Revolution & that we concur in that opinion
[Note in margin] "Officer" overwritten offside done before signing
Geo M Beckwith acting clerk

Sworn & subscribed the day & year aforesaid
in open Court before me
D Peters
Isaac C Platt
Geo M Beckwith acting clerk. 

And the Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigating of the matter, & after putting the interogatories; prescribed by the war department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Officer & served as he states. And the Court further certify that it appear to them that Isaac C. Platt & David Peters - who have signed the preceeding certificate is
credible persons and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Page 10

I George M. Beckwith acting clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Clinton do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of Prudent La Jennesse for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 4th day of October A.D. 1832.
Geo. M. Beckwith, acting clerk.

[lower left margin vertical] Prudent La Jennesse Declaration
Page 11

State of New York
County of Clinton ss. Basil Nadeau of Champlain in the County of Clinton aforesaid and drawing a pension under the act of Congress of 1818, being duly sworn doth depose and say that he is well acquainted with Prudent La Jennnness who has signed the declaration hereto annexed. That he was acquainted with him before the Revolutionary war when a resident of Montreal in the Province of Lower Canada and was an influential man among the Canadians.  That this deponent joined the American Army at St Johns in Col Swingstons Regiment;  said La Jenness then had command of a large body of Canadians and was actively engaged in the operations of the Siege and was a captain. he was sometimes called Major - deponent was with him at the taking of the Fort at Chambly, & at the taking of Montreal, and at all these places the said La Jenness was commanding said war. Deponent understood that sd La Jenness was left to garrison Montreal & this deponent went to Quebec; did not see said La Jenness again until about the year 1778 at Albany - he was there attached to General Gates command.  Saw him again in 1780 or 81 at West Point at the Government baking establishment. Since the Revolution deponent has known him to reside at Montreal in Champlain aforesaid & that he is now a resident in the County Poor House at Beekmantown in said County of Clinton - that he is in indigent circumstances & is supported by the County as a pauper. And further deponent saith not.
Basil his X mark Nedeau

Sworn & subscribed before me
25 day of October 1832
Colin R Averill Commissioner of Deeds
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State of New York
County of Clinton} ss.

Calvin K Averill of Rinses Point being duly sworn doth depose & say that the annexed certificate are true copies from the original, as mentioned in the annexed declaration of Prudent La Jannesse, that the certificate named by him in said declaration were declined to this deponent by said La Jannesse for the purpose of obtaining compensation from the United States for services rendered in the Revolutionary War; and that deponent enclosed them to Col. Joseph Watson of the City of Washington for a letter for the purpose aforesaid, that said certificates are now in the possession of said Watson as deponent believes. And further deponent saith not.

C. K. Averill

Sworn & subscribed before me this 27th day of Oct 1832

Jas W Wood
Judge Clinton Conn Pleas
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Copy
We Peter Quatrefage Captain in the Regt. of Col. Hazen and Francis Guilenat Lieutenant  of the said Regiment Subsanbis? do certify that we have known in Canada Mr. Prudent La Jennesse for a captain, and at the head of a company : since the arrival of General Montgomery to Saint John till after the battle of the Cedars during which time the said Mr. Prudent La Jennesse behaved like a brave officer and supported in every [illegible] the character of a gentleman: and for the support of the United States of America, he abandoned his estate and family and took the opportunity of retreat of the American Army to take refuge under the protection of the Honorable Congress - In witness of what, and to his requisition, we
have given the present to serve him and with Albany January the 15th 1779 signed in the original in[illegible] and
Signed)
Quartrefage Captn
fr aveoys Jualeinal Lt.
N. Merlet Major of Militia
faithfully translated by the Subscriber who know by reputation
the contents of it true-- New York 21 July 1785
Marinie Des Levant aft. interpreter
Page 14

(Copy)
the subscriber was acquainted Mr. Prudent La Jenness in Canada and do certify that he took an early and decisive part in four of the grands cavin and in consequence of which conduct when the British Army arrived A Montreal he was obliged to leave his all- whether he was a Captain or lieutant I am not able to determine, but am positive he acted in one of those capabilities-
(Signed) John Paterson B. General
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Ex'r. OLD WAR
No. 6086
Prudent La Jenness
REJECTED
Canadian
Revy War
Died at ..........
..... other claim.
...., 187  . .....
Clerk
Application filed :......, 18  .
Attorney: .......
P.O......
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Plattsburg N.Y. June 8, 1835

James L Edwards Esq
Comm of Pensions

Sir,

In your letter dated March 6, 1835, addressed to J D Woodward relative to my claim to a pension you say that "it appears by his own Deposition taken by the agent of the Treasury Department in 1829, that his only connection with the military service was his employment as a baker."

It is true I was a Baker & attached to the army, but not until after I had rendered the military service for which I claim a pension. What was taken down as my testimony by the agents of the Treasury Department in 1829. I do not recollect; but I am sure I could not have stated that I rendered no other service than that of a baker. I apprehend my papers show that I did render the military service alleged by mw. It is certain I drew Lots 184 & 107 as a canadian refugee, & it will not I presume be said that lands were granted by the state of New York to canadian refugees unless they were entitled to them on account of their military service.

I refer to the Balloting book in the Land Office at Washington, where I presume my name will be found. I desire a thorough investigation of all the papers relating to my case, being fully satisfied mine will be found a mentorious application.

I wish your answer sent to J. D. Woodward at this place.

Yours respectfully

Prudent Lajennesse his mark X

In presence of
Jno B S Skinner
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6086
[crossed out] Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.

RECTED
20.454
P. O.
Prudent La Jinnessee
Service:
Consolidated with rifles
Same Soldier 6.086
Enlisted:, 18  .
Discharged:    , 18  .
Application filed:  , 18  .
Alleges:
Re-enlisted:
Attorney:
P. O.
Recognized.      Contract.
Cert. of Dis.  Searched for--, 18  .
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1048

REVOLUTIONARY CLAIMS
TREASURY DEPARTMENT

20 Sept 1828

Pruden La Jennessse of Champlain in the County of Clinton in the State of New York has applied to the Secretary of the Treasury for the benefits of the act, entitled "An Act for the relief of certain surviving officers and soldiers of the army of the Revolution," approved on the 15th of May, 1828. He states that he was an officer on the Continental line, and served as such to the end of the war at which period he was a Major in the Canadian regiment of the  ...  line; and the he received commutation for the five years full pay granted by the resolve of 22 March, 1783; and, further, that he has received as a pensioner since the 3d of March, 1826, nothing.

The Third Auditor is requested to report how far these several statements are corroborated by the records in this office.

By order of the Secretary,
A. Dickens

TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
THIRD AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
24th September 1828

It further appears that Prudent La Jennesse is not now in the pension list of any agency, and has been since the 3d March 1826.

The Revolutionary records in this Office furnish no evidence of Major Prudent La Jennesse having served to the end of the war, nor of his having received commutation.

Peter Hagner Aud
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1048

Revolutionary Claims.

Under the act, entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving Officers and Soldiers of the Army of the Revolution," approved 15th May, 1828.

TREASURY DEPARTMENET,
15 Nov 1828

The annexed paper, relating to the claim of Prudent La Jenness under the above mentioned act, is respectfully referred to the Secretary of War, with a request that he will be pleased to cause me to be informed whether it appears, by any records in the War Department, that the claimant has received, or is entitled to receive, the bounty in land granted by Congress for service in the Continental line of the Army of the Revolution; and, if so, whether he became entitled to the same by service to the termination of the war, or in what other manner.
Richard Rush

Hon. the SECRETARY OF WAR.

War Department
Bounty Land office
I certify that there is no record, in this office, showing that Prudent La Jenness as an officer of the New York line in the revolutionary army ever received or is entitled to receive bounty land of the United States.
Robert Taylor
18 Nov 1828
Page 20

Clinton County ss Peter Luck of the Town of Champlain in said County being duly sworn deposes & says that Prudent La Jennesse boarded  with deponent who was keeping house before the said La Jenness went to the Poor House for one year just before he went to the Poor House & that during the time he so boarded with Deponent he had turns of being out of his head & was constantly complaining of his head. that during these try he was incapable of communicating rationally with any one, that this deponent was acquainted with him where he resided in Montreal & knew his family & this was the reason he took him into board six months board the said La Jennesse  would live for when he went to the Poor House. This Deponent says that the said La Jennesse informed Deponent that he
had a good property in Canada which was confiscated by his joining the American Army Deponent has received the same information from a relative of said La Jennesse (distant) who now resides in Montreal said La Jennesse informed this deponent that he had been a Spy for the Americans & had been taken as such in Canada & made his escape. The said La Jennesse could not see much he was sickly week & feeble & a very old man. while he lived with me he had nothing but what was given him. Said La Jennesse was called Major La Jennesse in the neighborhood. Deponent recollects that the said La Jennesse had some papers from officers high in rank in the American Army & this deponent went with him to Esquire Averill of Rowes Point to prove his services with his papers where he first
applied to Mr. Averill to obtain his pension
P. Luck

Sworn to & Subscribed
this 25th day of June
AD. 1846. Before me
Calim K. Averill Justice Peace
Page 21

State of New York
Clinton County ss.}

I Charles H Jones Clerk of the County of Clinton do hereby certify that Calvin K Averill whose name is subscribed to the within affidavit & before whom the same was taken is a Justice of the Peace in & for said County, and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of said Justice and verily believe that the signature is genuine.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of said County the 25th day of June 1846.

Charles H Jones
Clerk
Page 22

Plattsburgh Augt 26 1834

Sir

Mr Prudent La Jennesse desires me to write you for the purpose of making enquiry respecting his application for a pension.

He informs me that he joined Montgomery at Crown Point with sixty men in 1775 & went with him to Quebec, was made a Major (acting) by Montgomery and after the defeat at Quebec retreated with the army and continued in the service until the end of the war, was at the taking of Burgoine &c &c &c.

Two years ago he employed Mr C K Averill to procure him a pension and placed in his hands all the papers he had preserved relative to his service &c.

La Jennesse thinks Mr Averill has not urged his claim, or perhaps has not sent on his papers and therefore has desired me to make the enquiry whether the application has been made and if so what objection has suggested itself to his being placed on the Pension Roll. Please address me at this place.

With high consideration of Respect I am very respectfully

[unk] Jno B S Skinner

Hon Secy of War
Page 23

The enclosed letter from the Secretary of State of New York is offered as evidence in support of the applicants claim in that P La Jennesse drew lands from the state of New York for his service in the Revolution - His patent cannot be found as appears from the within.
C. K. Averill
Page 24

Albany, Dec 28, 1826

Dear Sir,

Prudent La Kennesse drew Lot No. 189, of the 80 acres lots, and No. 108 of the 420 acre lots. There is a memorandum of the delivery of the patents, but Mr Campbell has been unable to find it at this time; it is however in being, and when found I will write you. Many of the patents were delivered to Gen. Mooers, whether this was of the No. I know not. But the possession of the patent is of no consequence; It was patented to Jennesse, and is on [paper torn]. I recd the $4.57 cents on acct. [paper torn].

Your friend & humble servt

A C [paper torn]
Page 25

Let. to W. G. Snethen Esq.
August 7th, 1846
D. B. McNeil, Nov. 11, '46

Act of the 7th June 1832
Page 26

16,302
New York
 Prudent La Jennissee
Suspended
Let to St J B S Skinner
19th Sep 34
Let to J.D. Woodward 6 March 1835
" " " " 22 June "
Doubtful
Letter to Hon R.H. Gillet 8 Ap. 1836
6086
Page 27

Applied under Act 1828 and an examination was made by agents which resulted in showing he was a baker
See Doc. in Treasury
Page 28

Recd of the Commssr of Pensions the
papers in the cases of Josiah Terry
& Yarrel Theer
March 2. 1835
R Whallon &
Deleverd [illegible] [illegible] to J D Woodward Esq
R Whallon
Page 29

Report the case of Prudent La Jenessiene to Hon. R. H. Gillett H.R. -- Report also to Mr. Gillet the case of Jonathan Clark, and return the letter to W. G.
2 April 1836
Page 30

16304

Prudent La Jenessee decd.
N.Y.
Act 7 June '32

[illegible] Lt. J. B. S. Skinner 19 Sept 1834
Page 31

War Department
Pension Office
6th March 1835
Sir
In the case of Prudent La Jennessee who claims 12 months service as Captain of a company of Canadian volunteers from the fall of 1775 and who had asserted a claim under the act 15th May 1828 upon are alleged served as Major from an early period, to the conclusion of the War It is established by his own deposition taken by the Agent of this treasury Department in 1829 that his only connection with the military service was his employment as a baker. His claim is therefore
suspended and his papers placed on file.
I am Respectfully
Your Obt Servant
J. L. Edwards

J. Douglass Woodward
Present
Page 32

Washington July 7th 1846

Sir:

Antoine La Jennesse, Louis La Jennesse, and Marie La Jennesse with her husband Joseph Dessenquay, heirs at law of Prudent La Jennesse, claim from the United States a pension which they allege to be due to their uncle under the law of June 7th, 1832, for his services as a Major of Infantry, in the war of the Revolution from the summer of 1775 to the autumn of 1776, during the invasion of Canada by General Montgomery and the retreat of the American Army there from.

They state, that their uncle, during his life applied to the United States to allow him the benefits of the Acts of May 15th 1828 and June 7th 1832, and that these applications failed, as they believe, because of imperfections, erroneous statements, and inconsistencies in the declarations made by him of his services and rank, under those Acts, but they allege that these imperfections, erroneous statements and inconsistencies were the result of mental derangement to which he was subject at times and of feebleness of memory arising from great old age.

They submit for your consideration the enclosed affidavits of Peter Luck, Alexander Farrall, Peter Robage, Charles Cootwa and Mary Cavalyea, in proof of the mental alienation to which the said Prudent La Jennesse was subject in the last years of his life, and of his rank as a Major of Infantry to which office he was appointed and commissioned by General Montgomery, and of his services in that capacity in the American Army, &c &c.

Of this service, together with that furnished by the said Prudent, and now on file in the Pension Office, is not sufficient to establish the right of the said Prudent to the pension now claimed for him by his said heirs, they are prepared to go on and furnish still further proof of the rank and services of their uncle, &c &c.

Mean-time, they refer to the declarations of the said Prudent, on file in the Pension Office, so far as they are sustained by the extensive evidence they may furnish for corroborative proof of the claim now preferred.

I have the honor to be, Sir,
Page 33

Very respectfully
Your most ob servt
M.G. Snethen
Attorney for the Heirs of P. LaJennesse

Hon J.L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pension 
Washington D.C.
Page 34

Memorandum (1)

At page 70, volume 2 of Atken's Edition of the Journals of the Continental Congress (1777), the following resolution occurs, There can be no doubt it refers to Prudent La Jennesse.
"Resolved: That an order be drawn in the Treasurer in favor of M. La Junesse for the sum of two hundred and fifty (250) dollars, for his services in behalf of the United Colonies."

Memorandum (2)

That General Montgomery was empowered by Congress to make appointments of officers and grant commissions, is evident from the whole history of that General's transactions. Example-
Writing to General Schuyler, December 5th 1775, from the heights of Abraham, General Montgomery says: "There are several appointments I have thought necessary to make, which I shall soon make known to you." (American Archives Vol 4 p. 190)
Page 35

Memorandum (3)

That General Montgomery never made a return to Congress of the officers and troops under his command, is plain from his own confession of the fact, in a letter to General Schuyler, dated Dec 26th 1775, a few days only before his death, in which letter, he says:- "The strange divided state of the troops, all this campaign, has prevented my sending returns, having never been able to get one, with any tolerable exactness." (American Archives, Vol. 4, p. 465)

Memorandum (4)

Whether General Wooster even made a return of the officers and troops in Canada, it does not appear, so far as I have examined, but the following extract from a letter from Gen. Schuyler to the President of Congress, dated Albany January 29th 1776 shows that Gen. Wooster was directed to make one:- "As I have no return of the arrangement made in Canada, I cannot fill up the commissions, I sometime ago wrote to Gen. Montgomery for it, and should probably have had it, had one been so happy for it, and should probably have had it, had we been so happy as not to have lost him. I have reminded Gen. Wooster of it, and am in hopes I shall soon receive the proper returns," (American Archives Vol. 4 p. 881)
Page 36

If there be no return of Prudent La Jennesse as a Major of Infantry under Gen. Montgomery's command, it is probably owing to the fact that no return was ever made of the Canadian officers appointed & commissioned by him.
Page 37

Rowes Point Dec 30. 1834
Dear Sir,
J D Woodward Esq. Dist Atty for Chester Co. will call on you for all papers & evidence you have in relation to the services of Major La Jennesse for the Revolutionary War. As we have made a trial & been unsuccessful I am willing & desirous that he should make a trial in behalf of the old man as I believe his claim is a just one, and for that purpose you are please let him have such papers as are necessary to aid him in the undertaking
I am
Respectfully
Your Obt Sert
C. K. Averill

Col Jos. Watson
Washington City

The claim of Majr Lajenesse was filed by me in the office of the Secy
of the Treasury under the act of 1828 and a I think the documents may be
on file in that office.  [illegible] the Commissioner of pension applied to me for
them, I was two unwell to attend to his request and my papers being still
mixed up, I cannot even now say positively that I have none of the documents,
altho I am clearly of that belief
March 3d 1835
Jn: Watson
Page 38

War Department
Pension Office
19 Sept 1834

Sir

In reply to yours of the 26th [unk] respecting the claim of Prudent La Jennesse I have to inform you that his papers are on file in this office. His claim is supported by copies of evidences, the originals of which were alleged to have been forwarded to J Watson Esq of this city. No reply has been received to a letter from this office requesting the transmission of the originals.

I am Respectfully your obt servt

J L Edwards


Lt J B S Skinner
Plattsburgh
N York
Page 39

Plattsburg NY June 15 1835
James L. Edwards Esq
Sir , 
Prudent Lajannesse is a pauper in our County Poor House, and the impression seems to prevail that "he has done the state some service. It is hoped he will be found justly entitled to a pension.
Yours respectfully
J. Douglas Woodward
Page 40

Aug 5 1846
Adal to case
Prudent LeJennesse
Changed to Conn Aug 20 46

Hon J.L. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.
Page 41

Sir
i enclose you Mr.Averill's certificate in relation to a Junesse claim which I will thank you to file among the papers in this case already laid before you by me
Your earliest attention is [illegible] in consideration of the case.

Governor
W.G. Snethen
alt. for thereof La G.
Washington City 46

Hon J L Edwards
Commr of Pensions
Page 42

State New York}
County of Clinton } ss  Calim K. Averill of Rouse Point in said County being duly sworn doth depose and say that he was formerly acquainted with Prudent La Jennesse a reputed officer in the American Revolution. that deponent assisted said La Jennesse in attempting to obtain a pension under an act of Congress passed in 1828; that about the year aforesaid said La Jennesse put into the possession of deponent a paper purporting to be an ancient and original certificate from under the hand of Brigadier Genl Patterson, Certifying as to said La Jennesse, rank as Major to the best of deponents recollections - that deponent forwarded the said Certificate to Col. Joseph Walters of the City of Washington who duly acknowledged its receipt.  that deponent has not seen said Certificate since. but supposed it to have been filed in the Pension Office at Washington with the papers of the application of said La Jennesse.
And further deponent saith not
Sworn & Subscribed before me   Calvin K Amerill
this 30th day of July A.D. 1846
H. G. Robbins
Justice Peace

Clinton County ss
I Charles A. Jones Clerk of the County of Clinton do here by Certify that Horatio G Rolins when [very faint and illegible] when [illegible] [illegible] [illegible] [illegible] Milton was at the date thereof a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Clinton commissioned and [illegible] and duly authorized to act as such in that I am well acquainted with his hand writing and family believe that the signature to be genuine.
In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and affixed
the seal of said County this 31 day of July 1846
Charles H Jones, Clerk
W R Jones Dept Clerk
Page 43

Washington July 27th 46

Sir

I submit the enclosed evidence of the time of the death of Prudent La Jennesse to be filed with the papers already laid before you in this case.

Yours respectfully

W. G. Snethen
Atty for Heirs of P. La Jennesse



J. L. Edwards Esq
Commr of Pensions
Washington D.C.
Page 44

Plattsburgh Oct 26th 1846

Dear Sir,

Col Standish one of the Agents for the heirs of Prudent Lajennesse has reportedly urged me to make a certificate touching the claim the said Lejennesse in his life time to a pension.

Now all that I know about Lajennesse is contained in a report made by myself & the late Major General Mooers to the Secy of the Treasury in 1830 or 1831. The Draft of that report & the evidence upon which it was founded was kept with General Mooers, & from the great lapse of time since it was made I have bit in indistinct recollection of the facts contained it.

My recollections however is that Lajennesse at the time Genl Mooers & myself acted as Treasury Agents in 1830 or 31 was a witness to establish the claims of other to a pension, but was not an applicant himself.
Page 45

for a pension. The object of this communication is to ask you simply to send me a copy of Lajennese's testimony which you find in the report before spoken of. I am unable to comply with the request of Col. Standish without having the testimony of Lajennesse before me taken upon occasion before alluded to.

I certainly would not withhold any information in my power to give to advance the just claims of the heirs of a Revolutionary soldier, but I cannot see for the life of me what use my certificate would be in the case in question.

I am very respectfully your obt servt

D B McNeil

J L Edwards Esq
Page 46

State of New York
Clinton County ss.

Edwin Benedict of said County being duly sworn deposes & says that he was acquainted with Prudent La Jennesse and that he examined the records of Clinton County Poor House and that by the records of said Poor House the said Prudent La Jennesse died at said Poor House on the twentieth day of June in the year one thousand eight hundred & thirty six having a record to that effect.

Edwin Benedict
Agent of the Board of Superintendents of Clinton County Poor House

Sworn to & subscribed this 17th day of July AD 1846 Before me
George Moore
Justice Peace

State of New York
Clinton County ss.

I Charles H Jones Clerk of the County of Clinton do hereby certify that Edwin Benedict Esq whose name is above subscribed is agent of the Board of Superintendents of Clinton County Poor House, and that George Moore Esq whose name is subscribed above and before whom the above affidavit was taken was at the date thereof, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Clinton, and that I am well acquainted with his hand writing and verily believe that the signature is genuine.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of sd County the 21 day of July 1846.

Charles H Jones Clerk
Page 47

Clinton County ss.

Charles Cootwa (written in French it is said Courtois) of the town of Plattsburgh in said County being duly sworn says that he is an invalid pensioner of the United States in consequence of having lost one oof his legs at the sortie of Fort Erie on the 17th September 1814, being then a sergeant in Capt. John Lytle's Company 4th Regiment of Riflemen under the command of General Brown, that he has drawn only ninety six dollars per year as [unk] pensioner but has recently applied for the pension of a sergeant to which he believes he is justly entitled. This Deponent further says that his wife who is now living with him but whom he has had eleven children (nine of them now living, seven of whom compose in part the present family of Deponent) is the daughter of Lewis Lajennesse who is the some of Antwine Lajennesse who was a brother of Prudent Lajennesse who died and lived in Clinton County Poor House, said Prudent Lajennesse died in Clinton County Poor House in June 1836 after having been there a number of years, as to the time of his death this deponent is informed by others but believes that the information is correct. This Deponent says that his leg was taken off a little below the knee joint & that ever since he has always used a wooden leg. This Deponent further says that a good many of his children are small, that he is as this Deponent believes one of the poorest in the Village of Plattsburgh & that it is frequently the case that his family suffer for the [unk] wants of life. This Deponent further says that he is obliged to take care of & support his father in law Lewis Lorjennesse to keep him from going to the Poor House, that Lewis Lorjenesse is unable to do any thing & almost helpless living at times deranged, that last fall said Lewis Lorjennesse
Page 48

in one of his deranged times was accidently found in the night about eleven o'clock about half covered with water in deep water hanging by his hands to to one of the Plattsburgh Dock Logs, that said Lewis Lajennesse is one of the heirs of Prudent Lajennesse above mentioned.

This Deponent further says that he was well acquainted with the said Prudent Lajennesse his uncle by his marriage & that he visited him frequently at the Poor House & occasionally brought him from the Poor House to Deponents house & kept him a number days & then returned him by permission of the Poor Master. This Deponent further says that said Prudent Lajennesse's two wives but never had any children by either, that both his wives are dead, that he Prudent has three brothers whose names were John, Peter, & Antwin. This Deponent further says that he has spent a great deal of time with the said Prudent Lajennesse being a cripple himself, he has gone to the poor house & spent the whole day with him, that said Prudent informed this Deponent that he had been to school in Paris five years & this Deponent thinks that is he has made his mark at any time it mist have been owing to his weekness & blindness, that said Prudent was almost blind & extremely week & kept his bed most of the time when this deponent saw him at the Poor House, this Deponent thinks he mist have been ninety five or ninety six years old when he died. Deponent thinks he asked him the last time he was at his house how old he was & thinks he replied that he was near a hundred years old, at any rate he has told deponent he was near a hundred years old. Deponent further says that the said Prudent was very much or Lewis his father in law is at times he did not know what he was about, he said Prudent had turns
Page 49

of being strange & wild& this Deponent had servants of his while at his house which he could not account for except by derangement. This Deponent further says that he understood said Prudent to say that he own around a good deal of property in Montreal, that he has spoken particularly of two houses he owned in that City. Deponent further says that Mrs Constantino who was the wife of Nicholas Constantino a pensioner informed this Deponent that he knew Prudent Lajennesse before he left Montreal, that he came to the United States during the Revolutionary War with a good many men & joined the American Army, that she knew the whole family well. This Deponent says that the said Mrs Constantino died last winter as he has been informed & believes & that as he has been informed that her heirs have applied for her pension which it said she never drew.

This Deponent further says that the said Prudent Lajennesse informed this Deponent that he was a spy to Chambly for the American Army & had a paper to deliver there & was taken & was to be hung the next day & got away by bribery. This Deponent further says that the said Prudent said he was a Major in the Revolutionary War & raised a company of men & joined the American Army, that he was called Major while this Deponent knew him & Mrs Constantino called him Major Lajennesse. This Deponent further says that Mary Calcalyea whose affidavit is hereto annexed, & her husband lived in the town with Deponent where the said Prudent Lajennesse used to come there & used to converse with him much.

Charles Coolwa her mark X

Sworn to & subscribed this 16th day of June AD 1846 Before me. Deponent making his mark he having never learned to write.

Goerge Moore Justice Peace
Page 50

Clinton County } ss.  Mary Carolyea of the town of Plattsburgh in said County being duly sworn says that she & her husband lived in the house with Charles Cootwa whose affidavit is hereto annexed at the time Prudent La Jennesse received in the annexed affidavit who come to his house and had much with him. that the Prudent at times not know where he was nor what he was about. he would be taken in this way while in conversation & would not appear to know what he had been taking about & after which would begin conversing about [illegible] enterity new & finger from him subject.  [X'd out = Deponent recollects one time in particular, where [illegible] [illegible] [illegible] went only in short distance from the house and had to be led back. not offering to know where he was]
his conduct at such times was very much like that of a fool [marked out = he was almost blind and used to go with a cane put out before him to find his way. 
Sworn to & subscribed     Mary her X mark Cavalyea
this 16th June A.D. 1846
Before me
Deponent making her mark
she having never learned to write and 
[illegible] Deponent to be a credible witness
George Moore 
Justice Peace

State of Newyork}
Clinton County}   SS.  I Charles H Jones Clerk of the County of Clinton County ss do hereby certify that George Moore Esqr whose name is subscribed to the above and within affidavits & before whom the same was taken was at the date thereof and now is a Justice of the Peace in & for said County and that I am acquainted with the handwriting of sd Justice & verily believe that the Signatures are genuine. In testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand & affixed the seal of said County the 25th day of June 1846
Chas H Jones Clerk

Left margin - vertical=
Deponent says that it was [illegible] La Jennessee that was brought back to the house after going a short distance not appearing to know where he was and therefore [illegible] the 3 canes stating to that [illegible] to be made.  Deponent says that the said Prudent was generally led by Mr. Cootwa where he went and does not recollect about his [illegible] both presumes he was or Cootwa stated as he was a very aged man.
Page 51

State of New York
Clinton County } ss.

Peter Robarge a pensioner of the United States of the Town of Chazy in said County being duly sworn deposes and says that he knows Alexander Ferreal whose affidavit is hereunto annexed and that the said Ferreal is also a pensioner of the United States and also resides in the said Town of Chazy. This Deponent further says he was well acquainted with Prudent La Jennesse named in the annexed affidavit and that the first time he saw him was at Montreal & that he then held a commission of Major in the service of the United States as this Deponent was informed, this Deponent according to the best of his recollection believes it to have been about three months previous to the taking of Chambly by the Americans, this Deponent understood at the time that the said La Jennesse was raising men to join General Montgomery. This Deponent further says that the said La Jennesses did join Montgomery with a body of Canadians for he saw him at the River Bluve at Montgomerys Camps & he had command of a body of Canadians but how many Deponent cannot say. Deponent also saw him at St Johns with Montgomery & he then was commanding a body of Canadians. Deponent also saw him at Chambly with his men in the American service. Deponent also say him with his men with the American Army at Cherney Point as the Army were [unk]. Deponent saw him also at Crown Point Fort George & at Albany & at [unk] several places as an officer at the time or at the times Deponent saw him acting as an officer he did not know his rank. Deponent  distinctly recollects of seeing him the said La Jennesse in Albany dressed in uniformed withtwo [unk] upon his shoulders. Deponent says he saw the said La Jennesse at Albany a number of times. Deponent says that the said La Jennesse while in the service before he got to Albany was called Major
Page 52

Deponent further says that after Peace he was called Colonel, that the said La Jennesse told Deponent that he had a Majors commission signed by General Montgomery & that at Peace he was promoted as a Colonel. Deponent visited him while he was at the poor house several times, that before he said La Jennesse went to the Poor House he came to Deponent's house to get him to take him & take care of him but Deponent's wife would not consent on account of the trouble as he was old & week & childish. Deponent knew him while he resided at Champlain & says that he had no body to support him & that he was week & feeble & further Deponent saith not.

Peter his X mark Robarsh   

Sworn & subscribed this 25th day of June AD 1846 before me
Julias C Hubbell
Justice of the Peace

I certify that I am acquainted with the above applicant & have been for a great number of years and that he is a credible witness and for a man of his years, uncommonly lucid & intelligent.
J C Hubbell J Peace

State of New York
Clinton County ss.

I Charles H Jones Clerk of the County of Clinton do hereby certify that Julius C Hubbell whose name is above subscribed is a Justice of the peace in & for said County & that I believe the above signature to be genuine. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County the 25th day of June 1846.

Charles H Jones Clerk

left margin = 37.317
Page 53

Clinton County ss.

Alexander Farrall of said County being duly sworn deposes and says that he was acquainted with Prudent La Jennesse who was in the Poor House of Clinton County and died there, that he first knew him at Chambly in Canada in the month of October in the year 1775, that he then & there had the command of a large body of Canadians in the American service during the Revolutionary War, that he appeared to be an officer in command greater than a Captain & this Deponent says he was called Major La Jennesse. This Deponent says his Father who was a Lieutenant of the Artillery was also there at that time. This Deponent believes the said La Jennesse had been in the American service some time previous to October 1775 in Canada but how long before Deponent cannot say, that Peter Robarge who is a pensioner is as this Deponent believes more particularly acquainted with the services of said La Jennesse than this Deponent. Deponent further says that the said La Jennesse with his men had joined Montgomery, that they retreated with the American Army from Canada in the summer of 1776, that this Deponent say him again at Chernney Point on Lake Champlain when the Army made a stand & that the said La Jennesse there also appeared to be an officer of the same rank he held in Canada, the troops being on the retreat were in no order, that Deponent again saw him at Fort George when he appeared the same, that Deponent again saw him in Albany where he appeared to be the same. it was in December according to the best of Deponents recollection 1776 that he saw him in Albany, snow was on the ground. Deponent further says that he saw the said La Jennesse at West Point on the North River in the year 1783 & that he had the care of the Bake House at West Point belonging to Government & had many men
Page 54

at work. Deponent says his Father was commissioned by General Montgomery & that General Montgomery as this Deponent has been informed and believes was authorized to commission & deponent thinks said La Jennesse must have received his commission of General Montgomery as all the other Canadian Officer recd. Deponent say that at Albany there was a very great change in reference to the Canadian Regiments a good many were attached to the Southern Division. Deponent further says that he knew him said La Jennesse many years at Champlain, that he was a very aged man & very week & infirm while he knew him at Champlain & while he was at the Poor House, & further Deponent saith not. The word "about" and the word "in" inserted before execution 6th line the words "in the year 1775" interlined before signed. Those words were interlined after 6th line before signed to wit "Deponent" "is" "Point" said La Jennesse "him".
Alexander his X mark Ferrell  
Sworn & subscribed this 24th day of June 1846 Before me
Charles H Jones
Clerk of Clinton Co

I certify that the above witness Alexander Ferall is a credible witness and is to be believed under oath.

Charles H Jones
Clerk of Clinton Co
Page 55

N.Y.
Nov 2d
16304

B
[stamped] Whitehall OCT 29 N.Y.
Revolutionary Claims
Hon Lew Cass
Secretary at War
Washington
D.C.
FREE
Page 56

[illegible] Point NY Oct 21 1832

The enclosed claim of [illegible] La Jennesse is purcited under the act of June 7, 1832 &n a [illegible].  I have written Col Joseph Watson in  relation to the certificates of General Patterson mentioned with declaration of Capt La Jennesse & in  my afficavit attached to the declaration.  After passing upon this claim you [page torn] oblige by informing me of the same.
I am respectfully yours,
C.K. Averill

[page torn] y at War.
Page 57

The Subscribed was acquainted with Mr Prudent La Jen[page torn]
in Canady and do certify that he took an early and doeisin[page torn]
in favor of the grand cause, and in consequence of which
when the British Army arrived at Montreal he was obliged
his all. whether he was a Captain or Lieutenant I am
to determine,  but am positive he acted in one of thou cap[page torn]
John Peterson JP
Page 58

 cert
Cpt. quatrefage
Lt. Guilimat
Major Merlet and
Cpt. Desdevens
Page 59

We, Peter Quatrefage captain in the Regiment of Colonel Hazen: and Francis Guilemat Lieutenant of the said Regiment subscribers, do certify that we have known in Canada Mr Prudent La Jennesse for a captain, and at the head of a company: since the arrival of General Montgomery, [illegible] Saint john; til after the Battle of Cedars. during which time the said Mr Prudent Lajennesse behaved like a brave soldier, and supported on every occasion the [illegble] of a gentleman: and for the support of the United States of America, he abandoned his estate and family and took the opportunity of the retreat of the American Army to take refuge under the protection of the honorable Congress.
In witness of what, and to his requiption, we have given the present to serve him and worth. Albany January the 15th 1779. Signed in the original [unk].
Quatrefage captne
Francoys Guilmat Lt.
N Merlot Major of the militia

Faithfully translated by the subscriber who knows by reputation the contents of it true. New York 21st July 1785, Maurice Desdevens interpreter
Page 60

I Samuel D Ingham Secretary of the Treasury do hereby certify that the annexed are the original papers received at this Department in the name of Prudent La Jennesse and in support of his claim under the act, entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving officers and soldiers of the Army of the Revolution," approved 15th May 1828.

Given under my hand and the seal of the Treasury this
Page 61

REVOLUTIONARY CLAIMS.
[A]
Form of a Declaration to made by the Officers.

For the purpose of obtaining the benefits of an act, entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving Officers and Soldiers of the Army of the Revolution," approved on the 15th of May, 1828, I Prudent La Jennesse of Champlain, in the county of Clinton, in the State of New York, do hereby declare that I was an officer in the Continental Line of the Army of the Revolution, and served as such* to the end of the War in the manner stated in my deposition herewith annexed, at which period I was a Major in the Canadian regiment of the New York line.
And I also declare, that I afterwards received certificates (commonly called commutation certificates)  for a sum equal to the amount of five years' full pay; which sum was offered by the resolve of Congress, of the 22d of March, 1783, instead of the half pay for life, to which I was entitled under the resolve of the 21st of October, 1780.
And I do further declare, that I have received of the United States as a pensioner since the 3d day of March, 1826.

Witness my hand, this tenth day of September, in the year AD 1828. Prudent La Jennesse
C K Averill

Before me+, Calvin K Averill a Justice of the Peace in the county of Clinton, in the State of New York; personally appeared, this day, Lewis Mainey and John Vinet, of the said county, who did severally make oath that Prudent La Jennesse by whom the foregoing declaration was subscribed, is generally reputed and believed to have been an officer in the Army of the revolution, in manner as therein stated. 
Witness my hand, this tenth day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty eight.

I, John Walworth, Clerk of the Court of the county of Clinton, in the State of New York, do hereby certify , that Calvin K Averill, before whom the foregoing affidavits were sworn, was, at the time**, a Justice of the Peace, and duly empowered to administer oaths.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court, this eleventh day of September AD 1828.

John Walworth


*Here insert, To the end of the war, or, (as the case may be,) to the time when the arrangement of the Army provided by the resolves of Congress of the 3d and 21st of October, 1780, was carried into effect; and that I was reduced under that arrangement.
+Here insert, The sum of      dollars, paid to me by the agent for paying pensions in the State of                      . If the claimant has not been a pensioner, this part of the declaration may be omitted.
** A Justice of the Peace, or other magistrate duly empowered to administer oaths, as the case may be.
Page 62

Know all men by these presents that I Prudent La Jennesse of Champlain in the county of Clinton in the State of New York do hereby constitute and appoint Col. Joseph Watson of the city of Washington my true and lawful attorney with power of substitution for me & in my name to receive from the United States the amount of pay now due to me under the act entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving officers & soldiers of the Revolution," approved 15th May 1828 as a Major in the Regiment commanded by Major La Jennesse of the New York line of the Army of the Revolution. Witness my hand & seal this tenth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.

Pruden La Jennesse

Sealed & delivered in presence of 
C. K. Averill


Before Mr Calvin K Averill a Justice of the Peace in the county of Clinton in the State of New York personally appeared this day Prudent La Jennesse whose name is subscribed to the foregoing power of attorney & acknowledged the same to be his act & deed & also declared the same was not given by reason of any transfer, or of any attachment levy in service by any legal process whatever of the pay therein authorized to be received, but that the said pay is intended to [unk] [unk] to his personal benefits. Witness my hand this tenth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty eight.

C K Averill J Peace

I John Walworth Clerk of the Court of the County of Clinton in the State of New York do hereby certify that Calvin K Averill before whom the foregoing power of attorney was acknowledged is a Justice of the Peace. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of the said Court this eleventh day of September AD 1828.

John Walworth
Page 63

Recd

Before me Calvin K. Averill a Justice of the Peace in the County of Clinton in the State of New York, personally appeared this day Prudent La Jennesse of the said County aged        years, and made oath that about the middle of August 1775, he collected a body of Canadians at Montreal in the Province of Lower Canada, of about sixty in number, who aimed & equiped themselves at their own expense; put themselves under his command & marched to the American encampment at Corwn Point a distance of near one hundred & thirty miles into the American territory. That he arrived at the American encampment the first of September and reported himself & his men to General Montgomery who received him into his service and immediately rewarded him with a commission of Major and gave him command over the Canadians. That he was actively engaged in the apperations of the siege at the taking of Cahmbly, St Johns, & Montreal in November following and was stationed, to garrison the latter place with [unk] hundred Canadians, whilst Genl Montgomery proceeded to Quebec. On the 15th of January 1776, he received orders from Genl Montgomery to be the bearer of dispatches to Congress then sitting at Philadelphia and also took in charge sixty prisoners to be delivered to Genl Schuyler at Albany, from there they were conveyed to Philadelphia under his charge, amongst the prisoners were some distinguished Canadians & English, viz. Mr Shennet the Signior of Quebec, Col Ruvill, Col Campbell, Capt Dunbar, Capt Dugare & Capt Damara. He returned to his command at Montreal in the month of March following & continued to garrison Montreal until the retreat of the American Army from the Canadas in the spring of 1776 at which time he fell in with his testament and formed the rear guards of the American forces & marched to Albany, during the remainder of the war he was engaged at several stations in Albany, West point, New York, Philadelphia. From the close of the year 1780, he was acting without any particular command his Canadians having been detached & reduced in numbers; but he remained with and was subject to the orders of Genl Gates until Peace, during the time he was subject to the orders of Genl Gates he had charge over the baking establishment for the Northern Section of the
Page 64

Army. after Peace He went to New York reside when he remained until 1789. He move thence to Montreal where he has resided until within two years past. He has now been an inhabitant & resident of Champen nearly two years.  He further saith, that he signified his intention to accept the
commentation of five years full pay for the half pay for life in 1783 that he received his commission as a Major of Infantry in Continental line, signed by Genl Montgomery at Crown Point in the year 1775- that his commission to date or near as he can recollect the first or second day of September of said year last mentioned.  He further saith, that his commission was with all his papers & baggage in the North River in the year 1786 occasioned by the overturning of the [illegible] he took passage in from New put to Albany
Given under my hand this tenth day September in the year
of the Lord one thousand Eight hundred & twenty Eight
C. K. Averill J. Peace

Before me Calvin K. Averill a Justice of the Peace in the County of Clinton
in the State of New York personally appeared this day Basil Nadeau of Champlain in the County aforesaid and made oath that he was a soldier in the Army of the Revolution in Genl Hazens Regiment, that he was a refugee from Canada and served under Genl. Montgomery the siege of Quebec.
That he was personally acquainted with the aforesaid mentioned Prudent La Jenness previous to the Revolution and ever since. He was acquainted with him previous to the Revolution in Montreal his place of residence, and that he was considered an influential man amongst the Canadians. The first deponent knew that said La Jenness was appointed a Major was at the
siege of St Johns in October 1775 where this deponent joined the Americans-- Said La Jenness then had command of a lay body of Canadian & was actively engaged in the opperation of the sage-- deponent was with him at Cambly & Montreal.  Afterwards as deponent understood said La Jenness was left to
Page 65

gamiou Montreal & deponent went on to Quebec with Genl. Montgomery. On the retreat of the Americans from Canada in 1776 said La Jenness situated with them. Deponent did not see said La Jennesse again until about the year 1780 or 81 at West Point was then attached to Gen Gates command
Has been acquainted with him ever since the Revolution & knows him to be the same identical person that sound as before stated
Given under my hand this tenth day of September in the year of
one Lord one thousand Eight hundred and twenty Eight
C. K. Averill J. Peace


Before Me Calvin K. Averill a Justice of the Peace in the County of Clinton in the State of New York personally appeared this day Lewis Marney & John Vinet Revolutionary soldiers residing in Champlain in said County to me personally known as respectable & reputable persons who did severally make oath that they were acquainted with Prudent La Jennesse before the commencement of the Revolution & that he was a resident of Montreal at that time. Deponents recollect of hearing first of Major La Jennesse, appointed at the time Genl. Montgomery's invasion of Canada, but they did
not see him acting in that capacity until deponents joined the American army after their retreat from Canada to Albany in 1776. But they heard it said in the time of it. that said La Jennesse had joined the Americans & Recd a commission of Major and they verily believe he served as stated in the foregoing affidavit made by the said La Jennesse. At the time deponents joined Genl Hazens Regt in 1776 at Albany, they recollect that said La Jennesse was detached with his volunteers to New York. And the said Louis Marny further recollects of seeing said La Jenness afterwards in Philidelphia
acting in the capacity aforesaid mentioned - And deponents further say that they have been acquainted with said La Jennesse
Page 66

even since the Revolution.  I have often heard many years ago that said La Jennesse on coming up the North River way overturned in the boat and his papers, trunk and all his baggage lost.  Given under my hands this tenth day of September in the year of our lord one thousand eight hundres and twenty eight.  
C. K. Averill Justice of the Peace
Deposition
Prudent La Jennesse
Revolutionary Claim
Evidence

Deposition of Prudent La Jennesse
Page 67

Major La Jennesse
Revolutionary Claim
additional
(evidence in supplement of)
Majr La Jennesse's case
1048
Served first as private on the
New-York balloting book
page 187
Recd 28 Feb 1829

La Jennesse
Page 68

State of New York
Clinton County } ss.

Nicholas Constantine a soldier in General Hazens Regiment being duly sworn, doth depose and say , that he is personally acquainted with him after the retreat of General Montgomery's Army from Quebec, and on their way to Albany, that said La Jennesse then commander several hundred Canadian volunteers, and ranked as a Major, that deponent understood he had been in service for some time previous, but was not personally knowing to that fact. And deponent further saith, that he frequently saw said Lajenness in Albany in 1776 or 1777 in the discharge of his duty as commandant of said Volunteers, and that he saw him afterwards acting as superintendent of the Baking Establishment for the Army at West point. And deponent further saith that he has no doubt but said Le Jennesse served in the capacity of a Major duly appointed as above stated. And further that deponent recollects of receiving rations & provisions for Major La Jennesse as aforesaid. And further saith not.

Nicholas his X mark Constantine  

Sworn before me this 16th day of Feby 1829.
C. K. Averill J. Peace

State of New York
Clinton County } ss.

Peter Renway aged seventy three years, being duly sworn doth on his oath say that he was a private in Captain Oliver's company in Genl Hazen's Regiment in the Army of the Revolution, that he was acquainted with Major Prudent La Jennesse, first saw him in Albany in 1776 after the retreat of the American Army from Canada, that this deponent recollects of having received rations from said La Jennesse at Albany in the year last aforesaid, that said La Jennesse acted in the capacity of an officer, but what rank
Page 69

said La Jennesse held deponents does not know, has not seen said La Jennesse for the time he left Albany, the time of the Revolution until this day, but deponent recollected said La Jennesse after having [unk] with him. And deponent has no doubt but said La Jennesse ranked as aforesaid mentioned. And further deponent saith not.

Peter his X mark Renway  

Sworn before me this 16th day of Feby AD 1829
C K Averill J. Peace

State of New York
Clinton County} ss.

Joseph Dale aged seventy four years being duly sworn doth depose & say that he has heard read the foregoing affidavits of Nicholas Contantine & Peter Renway respecting the rank & service of Major La Jenness, that this deponent served in the same Regiment with said Renway & Constantine & he is acquainted with all & the same facts as sworn to by them. And further deponent saith not.

Joseph his X mark Dale 

Sworn & subscribed before me this 16th day of Feby AD 1829.
C K Averill J Peace
Page 70

State of New York
County of Clinton}  SS Before Me Calvin K. Averill a Justice of the Peace in the County of Clinton in the State of New York personally appeared this third day of December 1828 Prudent La Jennesse to me personally known and made
oath that he received his commission as an officer of the rank of Major in the line, in the American Army in the war of the Revolution, and that was his rank
while in said service
Given under my hand the day and year first above written
C. K. Averill J. Peace

State of New York
County of Clinton} SS

Before me Calvin Carrell a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid personally appeared this Sixth day of December 1828. Thomas Hibbard Merchant of Rouses Point and made oath that Prudent La Jenness in the foregoing affidavit named is generally reputed and believed to have been an office of the rank of Major in the line of the Revolution
Page 71

And that said La Jennesse bear an unexceptionable character for truth and veracity.
Given under my hand at Rouses Point this sixth day of December 1828
C. N. Averill J Peace

State of New York
County of Clinton } SS  Before me Calvin K. Averill Justice of the Peace in & for said County of Clinton Personally appeared this Sixth day of December 1828 the Honorable Daniel T. Taylor of Rouses Point to me personally known
and made oath that he is personally acquainted with Lewis Marney, John Vinet and Basil Nedeau Revolutionary pensioners residing at the same place aforesaid, and that they have long been residents of said town & are reputed & believed to be of unexceptionable character for truth & veracity.
And that he is acquainted with Prudent La Jennesse aforesaid mentioned & that he is generally reputed and believed to have been an officer of the rank of Major in the Army of the Revolution
Given under my hand at Rouses Point, the day &  year first above mentioned
C.K. Averill J. Peace
Page 72

Recd 20 June 1829

State of New York ss.

James Livingston late Col in the service of the United States being duly sworn saith that the several persons named in the foregoing List actually left Canada before the first day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty two and came into the State of new York and have respectively resided within the same for the term of two years next preceding the day last mentioned as statedly as the Military Duty in which they were engaged would admit, that several of them had families who constantly resided within the limits of this State which there is reason to believe they considered as their Home while in exile, that the several persons named in the foregoing list are included in the return made yesterday to the Commissioners for granting certain lands promised to be given as Bounty Lands by-Laws of this State.

Jas Livingston

State of New York
Secretary's Offices
Albany, May 27, 1829

Prudent La Jennesse is named in the list furnished by Col. Livingston, which list has the above certificate or affidavit attached to it. By the 14t Sec. of the act passed May 11, 1784, lands were granted to the Canadian and Nova Scotia Refugees, upon a return signed by Brig. Gen. Hazen and Col. Jas. Livingston: Provided that such refugees had actually left Canada or Nova Scotia before the first of Nov. 1782, and had resided in this state for 2 years preceding the last day mentioned.

A C Flagg
Page 73

Recd 12 Sept 1829

Rouses Point, Clinton County, N.Y.
September 7, 1829

Sir

I herewith enclose to you the affidavits of Lewis Provandie and Pierre Renway in support of the application of Prudent Lajennesse for a pension which we humbly hope will be conclusive with the other evidence furnished the department by Mr Averill and myself as to his being entitled to the bounty of his country. In confident hope that this deserving old man may receive something correct this late day, we submit it to the enlightened consideration of the proper organs of the Government.

I am, Sir, most respectfully your obedient servant,

Beta Edgerton

Hon. Samuel D Ingham
Page 74

Beta Edgerton
for
P LaJennesse
Rec 12  Sept 1829
The Hon, Samuel  D. Ingham
Secretary of the U.S. Treasury
Washington
Page 75

La Jennesse
The affidavits of Lewis Provaride
Pierre Renway
in support of the application of 
Prudent La Jennesse for a
Pension.
Page 76

Recd 12 Sept 1829

State of New York
Clinton County} ss

We Alexander Ferriole, Lewis Provandie, & Pierre Renway of said County, being duly sworn do depose and say that we have long known Prudent La Jennesse and that we were personally acquainted with him in the time of the American Revolution, and on the retreat of General Montgomery from Canada in the year 1776, he was a volunteer and a refugee from Canada, and followed the American Army. That in the retreat of the army, said La Jennesse by his own exertion raised a company of sixty volunteers and furnished and equipped the greater part of the himself, that he was engaged with his volunteers, in taking St johns and Chambly, was also at the battle of the Cedars, and commanded said volunteers as this deponents is informed and believe to be true, and at that time was well known to us as a Captain, and after the arrival of the American Army at Crown Point on Lake Champlain, said Le Jennesse received a commission from General Montgomery and was called Major, but received only a captains pay and rations, that afterwards while the American troops lay at Albany and Schendaty, the said volunteers mostly enlisted into Warens and Livingstons Regiment, and the said La Jennesse was left without a command, but continued in the army and was at Albany and West Point, to the end of the war and had the charge of aid [unk] the baking for the American Troops & that the said Lajennesse has served from the State of New York a patent for Bounty Lands in consequence of said services in the army of the revolution; as [unk] be found by his reference to the Secretary of State Office at Albany, and that which the said La Jennesse was at West Point, we are personally knowing to his having the charge of the baking establishment to the end of the war and further these deponents say not.

Lewis Provandie
Pierre his X mark Renway

Sworn and subscribed before me this fifth September 1829.
C K Averill J Peace
Page 77

Recd 12 Sept 1829  not admit   1048

Rousespoint, Clinton County, N.Y.
September 7, 1829

Sir

I herewith enclose to you the affidavits of Lewis Provandie, and Pierre Renway, in support of the application of Prudent La Jennesse, for a pension which we humbly hope, will be conclusive with the other evidence furnished the department by Mr. Averill, and myself, as to his being entitled to the bounty of his Country. In confident hope, that this deserving old man may receive something, even at this late day, we submit it to the enlightened consideration of the proper organs of the government.

I am, Sir, nost respectfully your obed. servant,

Beta Edgerton

Hon: Samuel D. Ingham
Page 78

[A]
Form of a declaration to be made by the officers.

For the purpose of obtaining the benefits of an act, entitled, "An act for the relief of certain surviving officers and soldiers of the army of the revolution," approved on the 15th of May, 1828, I, Prudent La Jennesse, of Champlain, in the county of Clinton, in the state of New York, do hereby declare, that I was an officer in the Continental line of the army of the revolution, and served as such to the end of the war, in the manner stated in my deposition * herewith annexed, at which period I was a Major in the Canada regiment of the New York line. And I also declare, that I afterwards received certificates (commonly called commutation certificates) for a sum equal to the amount of five years full pay, which sum was offered by the resolve of Congress of the 22d of March, 1783, instead of the half pay for life to which I was entitled under the resolve of the 21st of October 1780.

And I do further declare, that I have received of the united States as a pensioner since the 3d day of March, 1826, +

Witness my hand, this tenth day of September in 


* Here insert, To the end of the war, or (as the case may be) to the time when the arrangement of the army provided by the resolve of Congress of the 3d and 26th of October, 1780, was carried into [unk] and that I was [unk] under that arrangement.
+ Here insert, The sum of      dollars paid to me by the agent for paying pension in the state of               . If the claimant has not been a pensioner, this part of the declaration may be omitted.
Page 79

Prudent La Jennesse
the year A.D. 1828.
C. K. Averill
Before me Calvin H. Averill, a Justice of the peace in the
County of Clinton, in the State of New York, personally appeared this
day Lewis Mainey and John Vinet, of the said County, who
did severally make oath, that prudent La Jennesse by whom the
foregoing declaration was subscribed is generally reputed and believed
to have been an officer in the army of the revolution in manner as
therein stated.
Witness my hand this tenth day of September, in the
year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.
I, John Walworth, Clerk of the Court of the County of Clinton,
in the State of New York do hereby certify, that
(Seal)
Calvin K. Averill, of whom the foregoing
affidavits were sworn, was at the time a
Justice of the peace, and duly empowered to
administer oaths
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my
hand and affixed the seal of the said Court, this eleventh day of
September, A.D. 1828.
John Walworth
A Justice of the peace, or other magistrate duly empowered to
administer Oaths, as the case may be
Page 80

Before me, Calvin H. Averill, a justice of the peace in the County of Clinton, in the State of New York, personally appeared this day, Prudent La Jennesse, of the said County aged ...  years, and made oath, that about the middle of August, 1775, he collected a body of Canadians at Montreal, in the province of Lower Canada, of about sixty in number, who armed and equipped themselves at their own expense; put themselves under his command, and marched to the American encampment at Crown point, a distance of near one hundred and thirty miles into the American Country. That he arrived at the American encampment the first of September, and reported himself and his men, to general Montgomery, who received him into his service, and immediately rewarded him with a commission of Major, and gave him command over the Canadians. That he was actively engaged in the operations of the seige at the taking of Chambly, St John's and Montreal in November following and was stationed to garrison the latter place with several hundred Canadians, whilst general Montgomery proceeded to Quebec. On the 18th day of January 1776, he received orders from general Montgomery, to be the bearer of dispatches to Congress, then sitting at Philadelphia, and also took in charge sixty prisoners to be delivered to general Schuyler at Albany, from thence they were conveyed to Philadelphia, under his charge. Amongst the prisoners were some distinguished Canadians and English, viz: W. Shinnel, the seignior of Quebec, Colo. Ruvill, Col. Campbell, Capt. Dunbar, Capt. Dugare, and Capt. Damara. He returned to his command at Montreal, in the month of March following, and continued to garrison Montreal until the retreat of the American army from Canada, in the spring of 1776, at which time he fell in with his detachment
Page 81

detachment, and formed the rear guard of the American forces, and
marched to Albany. During the remainder of the war he was engaged
at several stations in Albany, West Point, New York and Philadelphia
From the close of the year 1780, he was acting without any particular
command, his Canadians having been detached and reduced in
numbers; but he remained with, and was subject to the orders of
general Gates until peace. During the time he was subject to the
orders of General Gates, he had charge over the baking establishment for the northern Section of the army. After peace he went to
New York to reside, where he remained until 1789. He removed
from thence to Montreal, where he has resided until within two
years past. He has now been an inhabitant and resident of
Champlain for nearly two years.
He further saith, that he signified his intention to accept of the Commutation of five years full pay for the half
pay for life in 1783. That he received his commission as a Major
of infantry in the Continental line, signed by general Montgomery
at Crown point, in the year 1775. that his commission bore date
as near as he can recollect, the first or second day of September
of said year last mentioned. He further saith, that his commission
was lost, with all his papers and baggage in the North river, in
the year 1786, occasioned by the overturning of the vessel he took
passage in, from New York to Albany
Given under my hand this tenth day September, in
the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and
twenty eight
C. K. Averill J. Peace
Page 82

Before me Calvin K. Averill, a justice of the peace in the County of Clinton, in the State of New York, personally appeared this day Basil Nadeau, of Champlain, in the County aforesaid, and made oath that he was a soldier in the army of the revolution, in general Hazen's Regiment; that he was a refugee from Canada, and served under General Montgomery, at the
seige of Quebec. That he was personally acquainted with the aforesaid mentioned Prudent La Jenness, previous to the revolution, and ever since. He was acquainted with him previous to the Revolution in Montreal, his place of residence, and that he was considered an influential man amongst the Canadian The first deponent knew that said La Jenness was appointed a
Major was at the seige of St John's in October 1775, where this deponent joined the Americans. Said La Jenness then had command of a large body of Canadians, and was actively engaged in the operations of the siege. deponent was with him at Chambly and Montreal, afterwards, as deponent understood, said La Jenness was left to garrison Montreal, and deponent went on to Quebec, with general Montgomery. On the retreat of the
Americans from Canada in 1776, said La Jenness retreated with them. Deponent did not see said La Jenness again until about the year 1780 or 81, at West point. was then attached to general Gates's Command. has been acquainted with him ever since the revolution, and knows him to be the same identical person that served as before stated. 
Given under my hand, this tenth day of September in the____
year
Page 83

year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight
C. K. Averill, J. Peace

Before me, Calvin H. Averill, a justice of the peace in the County of Clinton, in the State of New York, personally appeared this day Lewis Marney and John Vinet, revolutionary soldiers residing in Champlain in said County, to me personally known as respectable and reputable persons who did severally make oath, that they were acquainted with Prudent La Jenness before the commencement of the revolution, and that he was a resident of Montreal, at that time. Deponents recollect of hearing first of Major La Jenness appointment at the time General Montgomery's invasion of Canada, but they did not see him acting in that capacity, until deponents
joined the American Army after their retreat from Canada to Albany in 1776. But they heard it said in the time of it, that said La Jennesse had joined the Americans, and received a Commission of Major; and they verily believe he served as stated in the foregoing affidavit made by the said La Jennesse. At the time deponents joined General Hazen's Regiment in 1776, at Albany, they recollect that said La Jennesse was detached with his Volunteers, to New-York. And the said Lewis Mainey recollects of seeing said La Jennessee afterwards in Philadelphia, acting in the Capacity aforesaid mentioned. And deponents further say, that they have been acquainted with said La Jennesse, ever since the revolution, and have often heard many years ago, that said La
Jennesse in coming up the North river, was overturned in the boat
Page 84

boat, and his papers, trunk, and all his baggage lost.
Given under my hand, this tenth day of September, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.
C. K. Averill, J. Peace.
Page 85

Rc'd 26 Jan 1929

State of New York SS
James Livingston, late Col. in the service of the United States, being duly sworn, saith, that the several persons named in the foregoing list, actually left Canada, before the first day of November, in the year of our Lord one
thousand seven hundred and eighty two, and came into the State of New York, and have, respectively resided within the same for the term of two years not preceding the day last mentioned, as statedly as the military duty in which they were engaged, would admit, that several of them had families who constantly resided within the limits of this State, which there is reason to believe they considered as their home, while in exile: that the several persons named in the foregoing list, are included in the return made yesterday to the
Commissioners for granting certain lands promised to be given as bounty lands by laws of this State. 
Jas Livingston


State of New York,
Secretary's office, Albany, May 27, 1829

Prudent La Jennesse is named in the list furnished by Col. Livingston, which list has the above certificate or affidavit attached to it. By the 14th Sec. of the act passed May 11, 1784, lands were granted to the Canadian and Nov
Scotia refugees, upon a return signed by Brig. General Hazen, and Col.
Page 86

Colo. Jas Livingston: Provided, that such refugees had actually left Canada or Nova-Scotia before the first of November, 1782, and had resided in this state for 2 years preceding the last day mentioned.
A.C. Flagg
Page 87

R 12 Sept 1829
State of New York,
Clinton County} SS 
We Alexander Farriole, Lewis Provandie and Pierre Renway, of said County, being duly sworn, do depose and say that we have long known Prudent La Jennesse, and that we were personally acquainted with him in the time of the American [crossed out in the time of the American revolution] revolution, and on the retreat of general Montgomery from Canada, in the year 1776, he was a volunteer, and refuge from Canada, and followed the American Army. that in the retreat of the Army, said La Jennesse, by his own exertions, raised a company of sixty volunteers, and furnished and
equipped the greater part of them himself; that he was engaged with his volunteers in taking St John's and Chambly - was also at the battle of the Cedars, and commanded said volunteers, as this deponent is informed and believes to be true; and at that time, was well known to us as a captain; and after the arrival of the Americans at Crown point on Lake Champlain, said La Jennesse received a Commission from general Montgomery, and was called Major, but received only a captains pay and rations that afterwards while the American troops lay at Albany and Schenectady, the said Volunteers mostly enlisted into Hazen's and Livingston's regiment, and the said La Jennesse was left without a command, but continued in the army, and was at Albany and West point to the end of the war, and had the charge of, and superintended the baking for the American troops. That the said La Jennesse has received from the State of New York, a patent for bounty land in consequence of said services in the in the army of the
revolution, as may be found by a reference to the Secretary of State's
office at Albany, and that while the said La Jennesse was at West point
Page 88

point, we were personally knowing to his having the charge of the takin establishment to the end of the war, and further these deponents say not.
Louis Provandie
Pierre his X mark Renway
Sworn and subscribed before me this fifth September, 1829
C. K. Averill; J Peace
Page 89

State of New York
Clinton County ss ⎬
Nicholas Constantine a soldier in general Hazen's regiment, being duly sworn, doth depose and say, that he is personally acquainted with President La Jennessee, that he first became acquainted with him after the retreat of general Montgomery's army from Quebec on their way to Albany: that , said La Jennesse then commanded several hundred Canadian Volunteers, and ranked as a Major; that deponent understood he had been in service for some time previous, but was not personally knowing to that fact. And deponent further saith, that he frequently saw said La Jennesse
in Albany in 1776 and 1777, in the discharge of his duty as commandant 
of said volunteers, and that he saw him afterwards acting as superintendant of the baking establishment for the army at West point. And deponent further saith, that he has no doubt but said La Jennesse served in the capacity of a Major, duly appointed as above stated.
And further, that deponent recollects of receiving rations and provisions
from Major La Jennesse, as aforesaid. And further saith not.
Sworn to before me this 16th day
of February, 1829
C. K. Averill, J. Peace
Nicholas Constantine
his X Mark
.
State of New York,
Clinton County} ss 
Peter Renway, aged seventy three years, being duly sworn, doth on his oath say, that he was a private in Captain Olivie's Company in general Hazen's Regiment in the army of the revolution; that he was acquainted with Major Prudent La Jennesse,
Page 90

La Jennessee, first saw him in Albany in 1776, after the retreat of the American army from Canada: that this deponent recollects of having received rations from said La Jennesse at Albany, in the year last aforesaid: that said La Jennessee acted in the capacity of an officer, but what rank said La Jennessee held, deponent does not know; has not seen said La Jennessee from the time he left Albany in the time of the revolution, until this day; but deponent recollected said La Jennessee, after having conversed with him. And deponent has no doubt but said La Jennesse ranked as aforesaid mentioned. And further deponent saith not.
Sworn before me this 16th day of
February A.D. 1829.
C. K. Averill J. Peace

Peter his X mark Renway

State of New York
County of Clinton
Joseph Labe, aged seventy four years, being duly sworn, doth depose and say, that he has heard read the foregoing affidavits of Nicholas Constantine and Peter Renway, respecting the rank and service of Major La Jennesse: that this deponent served in the said regiment with said Renway and Constantine, and he is acquainted with all and the same forth as sworn to by them. And further deponent saith not.
Sworn and subscribed before me this    Joseph his X mark Labe,
16th day of Feby A.D. 1829.
C. K. Averill, J. Peace.
Page 91

Know all men by these presents, that I, Prudent La Jennesse, of Champlain, in the country of Clinton, in the state of New York, do hereby consititute and appoint Col. Joseph Watson, of the City of Washington, my true and lawful attorney, which power of substitution, for me, and in my name, to receive from the United States the amount of pay now due to me under the act entitled "An Act for the relief of certain surviving officers and Soldiers of the revolution", approved 15, May, 1828, as a major in the regiment commanded by major La Jennesse, of the New York line of the army of the revolution.  Witness my hand and seal, this tenth day of September, one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.  
Prudent La Jennesse   {Seal}
Sealed and delivered in presence of C. K. Averill

Before me, Calvin K. Averill, a justice of the peace in the country of Clinton, in the state of New York, personally appeared this day, Prudent La Jennesse, whose name is subscribed to the foregoing power of attorney, and acknowledged the same be his act and deed, and also declared the same was not given by reason of any transfer, or of any attachments, levy or seizure by any legal process whatever, of the pay therein authorised to be received, but that the said pay is intended to ensure wholly to his personal benefit.  
Witness my hand this tenth day of September, one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.
Page 92

Know all men by these presents, that I Prudent La Jennessee of Champlain, in the County of Clinton, in the State of New York, do hereby constitute and appoint Col. Joseph Watson, of the City of Washington, my true and lawful attorney with power of substitution, for me and in my name, to receive from the United States the amount of pay now due to me under the act entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving officers and soldiers of the revolution approved 15 May 1828, as a Major in the regiment commanded by Major La Jennessee, of the New York line of the army of the revolution. Witness my hand and seal, this tenth day of September, one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.
Prudent La Jennesse {seal}
Sealed and delivered in
presence of
C. K. Averill

Before me Calvin K. Averill, a justice of the peace in the County of Clinton, in the State of New York, personally appeared this day, Prudent La Jennessee, whose name is subscribed to the foregoing power of attorney, and acknowledged the same to be his act and deed, and also declared the same was not given by reason of any transfer, or of any attachment, levy or seizure by any legal process whatever, of the pay therein authorised to be received, but that the said pay is intended to enure wholly to his personal benefit.
Witness my hand this tenth day of September in the year
of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and twenty eight.
C. K. Averill, J. Peace
Page 93

I, John Walworth, Clerk of the Court of the County of Clinton, in the state of New York, do hereby certify, that Calvin K. Averill, before whom the foregoing power of attorney was acknowledged, is a justice of the peace.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court, this eleventh day of September, A.D. 1828,
John Walworth.
[seal]
Page 94

I, the subscriber, was acquainted with W. Prudent La Jennesse in Canada, and do certify that he took and early and decisive part in favor of the grand cause, and in consequence of which conduct, when the British army arrived at Montreal, was obliged to leave his all- whether he was a Captain or lieutenant, I am not able to determine, but am positive he acted in one of those capacities.
John Paterson, B. General.
Page 95

We Peter Quatrefage, Captain in the regiment of Col. Hazen and Francis Guilemat, lieutenant of the said regiment, subscribers do certify that we have known in Canada, Mr Prudent La Jennessee, for a captain, and at the head of a company; since the arrival of General Montgomery in Saint John till after the battle of the Cedars during which time, the said Mr Prudent La Jennesse behaved like a brave officer and supported, on every occasion, the rank of a gentleman, and to the support of the United States of America, he abandoned his estate and family, and took the opportunity of the retreat of the American army to take refuge under the protection of the honorable Congress. In witness of what, and to his requisition, we have given the present to save him, and worth Albany, January the 15, 1779. Signed in the original by
Quatrefage, Captain
Francois Guilemat, Lt.
H. Merlet, Major of militia,

Faithfully
translated by the Subscriber, who knows by reputation the contents of it true. New York 21st July 1785.
Maurice Desdevens
interpreter
Page 96

State of New York
County of Clinton

Before me Calvin K Averill a justice of the peace in the County of Clinton, in the state of New-York, personally appeared this third day of December, 1828, Prudent La Jennesse, to me personally known, and made oath that he received his commission as an officer of the rank of major in the line in the American army in the war of the revolution ; and that was his rank whilst in said service.
Given under my hand the day and year first above written.
C.K. Averill


State of New York
County of Clinton} ss
Before me Calvin K. Averill, a justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid, personally appeared this sixth day of December, 1828, Thomas Hibbard, merchant of Rouse's point, and made oath that Prudent La Jennesse in the foregoing affidavit named, is generally reputed and believed to have been an officer of the rank of major in the army of the revolution; and that said La Jennesse bears an unexceptionable character for truth and veracity.
Given under my hand at Rouse's point, this sixth day of December, 1828.
C.K. Averill, J. Peace
Page 97

State of New York,
County of Clinton 
Before me, Calvin K. Averill, a justice of the peace in and for said County of Clinton, personally appeared this sixth day of December, 1825, the honorable David J Taylor, of Rouse's point, to me personally known, and made oath that he is personally acquainted with Lewis Mainey, John Vinet, and Basil Nedeau, revolutionary pensioners, residing at the same place aforesaid, and that they have long been residents of said town, and are reputed and believed to be of unexceptionable character for truth and veracity. And that he is acquainted with Prudent la Jennesse, aforesaid mentioned and that he is generally reputed and believed to have been an officer of the rank of major in the arm of the revolution.
Given under my hand at Rouse's point, the day and year first above mentioned
C.K. Averill, J. Peace.
Page 98

Prudent La Jennesse
at the Pension office
Page 99

Plattsburg Dec 26 1834

J Douglas Woodward

Sir
I wish you to take charge of my application for a Pension and obtain an allowance of my claim. Of all persons having any papers of mine, or relating to my claim are requested to forward them to the Pension Office to the end that I may obtain my Certificate. I further authorize the Commissioner of Pensions to deliver any Pension Certificate to you. & I authorize you to do all lawful acts and things necessary to the obtaining of my Pension from the United States. 
Witness my hand and seal this Twenty sixth say of December 1834
Prudent his X mark La Jennesse
Signed sealed & delivered in the presence of Lt. Jno B Skinner