Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S, 832, John Besson, New Jersey
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(3-1776)

Service
New Jersey

Number  S.  832
Besson,  John

carded
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New Jersey 17.204
---
John Besson
of Hunterdon Co in the State of N Jersey
who was a Ensign in the Co commanded
by Captain Jones. of the Regt. commanded
by Col the New Jersey
lin for one, year
$120.
---
Inscribed on the Roll of New Jersey
at the rate of 120 Dollars 00 Cents per annum,
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831
---
Certificate of Pension issued the 10th day of Aug.
1833 and Sent to, Peter J.
Clark, Flemington, New Jersey
---
Arrears to the 4th of March. 1833. 240.00
Semi-anl allowance ending 4 Sept 33  60.00
$300.00
{Revolutionary Claim,
Act June 7, 1832.}
Recorded by Wm R. Palmer Clerk,
Book E. Vol. three Page 102,
---
Sup let age 30 June 1835
[Crossed out: S to Joseph Besson] Let to
Joseph Besson 12 Dec 1835
    do         do      21  do    do
Lt: to James N. Brading 19th
Mar. 1836
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No 22121  17.204.
Mr Beeson N.J.

Adm 1. year as an
Ensign

Peter J. Clark agt
Flemington
N. J
Page 4

War Department, Pension Office 22nd May 1883
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 shew 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.
1775 Ensign Capt David Jones illegible
Alleges that served under those officers throughout the year & thinks he served not less than one year - he is satisfied that the serviced more but only claims pension for one year.
I am respectfully, Your obedient servant, J.L. Edwards, Commissioner 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 [emphasis added by
KDJ] , &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 provion 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 lie 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 en[t]ered 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 dad rear 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 applicacation
[sic] of for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal [seal
embossed onto document] of office, this [—] day of &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or
commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will
then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his
personal knowledge of the 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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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 [t]he 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 go by reason of
bodily infirmity ; in which ease 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 most 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. ln 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:
“Personalty appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who,
being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of
memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the
best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below. and in the following
grades: — For — year — months, and — days, I served as a — — . For — months and —
days, I served as a — ; and for such service I claim a pension.”
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant
served, and the particular rank he held, As the law directs the pension to be paid according to the
grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four
months, it too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who
apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia &c. without specifying the
tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a
declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the
applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where
the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by
competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which
the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be
distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no 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 [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and
State Troops, The proof required by rule in this case 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.
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Additional Evidence of John Besson in order to obtain
the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed
June 7th 1832
State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County ss. The above named John Beeson
being duly sworn on his oath saith that he enlisted
in the army of the United States in the year one thousand
seven hundred and seventy five. That he served his
first tour in the spring of said year under Captain David
Jones, at Amboy in said State. That this tour was for the term
of one month and that he served in the malitia as a volunteer
and held the office of Ensign. That all the service he
performed were as an Ensign in the Volunteer Militia
service. That he has at this time in record evidence
of his office or his services, that he had a commission
from the Governor of said State as Ensign, but that it is
lost or mislaid, that he supposes it was destroyed soon
after the end of the war, not thinking it would be of
any future service to him. That this deponent served
another tour as Ensign for the term of one month at least
as a volunteer militiaman at a place called on the farms
Near Amboy, about two or three months after his first four
This service was likewise performed under Capt David Jones
That he belonged to the third regiment of the Hunterdon
Brigade which was commanded by Col Chambers and
General Philomon Dickerson. This deponent performed
another monthly tour in the capacity above at a place called
Heddys Mill between Elizabeth town & Amboy
in the year 1776 and in the month of August during
which time the Battle of Long Island was fought
That this Town was likewise under Capt David Jones
That at this time a large number of our men did
quartered along the sound. That this deponent
performed his fourth tour at a place called the two
Bridges in Somerset County, near the head of Raritan River
This was a short time after the Town at Heddys Mill, This
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deponent cannot say exactly how long. This was likewise for
one month. That he served as Ensign in the volunteer militia
corpre- That this deponent performed his fifth tour
which this deponent thinks was for more than a month 
at Bound Brook in Somerset County. This was an
enlistment for one month but he thinks they were not
relieved at the expiration of it, but had to remain for
some time after. This was under Capt David Jones likewise
and he thinks under Col David Chambers. This was
in the year 1776 and while the British lay New
Brunswick. That during this tour he was in a very severe
skirmish with the Brittish who came up to Bound Brook
but after the Battle again retired. This deponent
was afterwards called out on an alarm to Trenton
under Capt David Jones & John Rockafellow first
Lieutenant. Just before the Battle of Trenton about the
first of December 1776. That he was out at this time he
thinks from one to two weeks, that he acted as ensign
during all the time. That this deponent was again
called out on an alarm to Princeton Just before the
Battle of Princeton under Capt David Jones. He was
out as a volunteer for about a week he thinks, perhaps
more. That this deponent was out again on an alarm
at the time of the Battle of Monmouth, that he went
out under John Rockafellow as first Lieutenant and
under Colonel Chambers. That he was at Monmouth
during the Battle but was not actually in the engagement. 
That at this time he thinks he was out
14 about two weeks. That this deponent was out at
a number of other claims & performed other services
but on account of his great age & the length of time
& failure of his memory he cannot now particularly
state the times & the length of the Tours- That since he
made his previous declaration to the Department John 
Rockafellow one of his witnesses has deceased, that he now
knows of no other person by whom he can prove his
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services than, Cornelius Myers Nor does he know of any
other evidence by which he can authenticate his claim
That he never received any discharge from the service
That the said Myers is & has been acquainted with this deponent
at the time & ever since the war & was out on service with him
and who will testify as to the character of this deponent for veracity and his belief of deponents services
s/ John Beeson (x his mark)

Sworn & subscribed this 2nd day of March
1836 before me 
s/ Geo. Henry Justice of the peace

State of New Jersey ss:
I James D. Westcott Secretary of the State of New
Jersey do hereby certify that there is no record.
book of military commissions and during the
revolutionary war in my office, and not
exceeding twenty of such commissions recorded
in any of the books therein, that the name of Ensign John
Besson is not among that number, and that my office is the
proper place where such record book would or ought to be
ever any such extant.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand
and affixed my seal of office at the City of Newton this 
twenty ninth day of December A.D. One thousand eight hundred
and thirty five (1835)
s/ James D Westcott

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County ss
I Isaac G Farlee Clerk of the Inferior Court
of Common Pleas in and for said County of Henderson do
hereby certify that George Henry Esq before whom the foregoing
affidavits were taken was then and still is an acting Justice
of the peace duly commissioned and qualified as such and
that the signature is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my
hand and affixed the seal of said Court at 
Flemington the 2nd day of March AD 1836-
s/ Isaac G Farlee Clk
Page 10

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County Ss Be it Known that on this Second day of
March Eighteen hundred and thirty six personally appeared before 
one George Henry one of the Justices of the Peace in & for said County
Cornelius Myers who being duly sworn on his oath saith that 
He was out on a tour of volunteer Militia service for the term
of one month with the before mentioned John Besson who hath
subscribed the foregoing affidavit. That this tour was performed
at the Two Bridges in Somerset County in the fall of 1776 and
that the said John Besson served at that time & for that Tour was
an Ensign and did the duties of that office. This was under
Captain David Jones - This deponent was out another Term
at Bound Brook with the said Besson when the said
Besson served above one month as a volunteer Militiaman
a short time after the Tour at the Two Bridges. That said 
Besson also at this time held the Commission of Ensign
This was also under Capt David Jones & John Rockafellow
first Lieutenant That this deponent was again out
with the said Besson when the enemy left Philadelphia for
Monmouth when they were both out for the space of
two weeks at least. the said Besson all the time having
a commission & performing the duties of Ensign. That this
deponent has heard & believes that said Besson was out a
number of times before & after the above stated times; but
this deponent was not with him. That this deponent considers
the said Besson to be a man of good character and that
in the neighbourhood where said Besson resides his character
for veracity is considered good and that he is generally
considered in his neighbourhood to have been a soldier of
the revolution, and that this deponent believes his statement
of his services as a soldier of the revolution. That they received 
no written discharges at that time; It not being customary - And
further saith not
s/ Cornelius Myers (x his mark)

Sworn & subscribed the day &
year above written before me
s/ Geo. Henry Justice
Page 11

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County Ss
I Isaac G. Farlee Clerk of the
Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of
Hunterdon do hereby certify, that the foregoing 
contains the original proceedings of the said Court
in the matter of the application of John Besson
for a pension

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and seal of office at 
Flemington, this twelfth day of December
in the year of our Lord, one thousand
eight hundred and thirty two
s/ Isaac G. Farlee Clk

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County Ss

Personally appeared before me the undersigned
a Justice of the Peace in & for said County of 
Hunterdon John Besson who has made the foregoing 
Dec[laration] who being duly sworn deposeth & saith [illegible]
reason of old age and the consequent loss of memory
he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of
his services nor enter into a minute detail thereof but
according to the best of his recollection he served not
less than the period mentioned below and in the 
following grade. For at least one year as an Ensign in
the militia of New Jersey and for such service I
claim a pension. His Colonel was Chambers. His
Major was Chamberlin. and also Ely who was 
promoted during the war. He cannot give in detail
his services but he recollects being in several skirmishes
one in particular at Boundbrook. There were a
party of a British came up from New Brunswick &
being too strong for the militia forced them to retreat into
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the mountain during which both kept up a firing and seven 
were killed. He served during the whole war, and always
did duty when called upon. We were engaged in guarding
the country from incursions of the enemy & go on scouting
parties against them & other like services.
s/ John Besson (x his mark)

Sworn & subscribed this 13th day
of June AD 1833 before me
s/ Albertus King, Justice of the
peace

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County Ss.
I, George Henry one of the Judges
of the Court of Common Pleas of said County of Hunterdon
do hereby certify that I am acquainted with James
Larew & John Rockafeller who signed the foregoing affidavits
believe them to be men of truth & veracity and their 
statements should be entitled to credit. Given under my
hand this 18th day of June 1833.
s/ Geo Henry

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County Ss. I, Isaac G Farlee Clerk of the
Inferior Court of Common Pleas of said County of
Hunterdon Do hereby certify that I Albertus King before
whom the foregoing affidavit was taken, then and
still is one of the Justice of the Peace in & for said County
of Hunterdon & that the signature thereto annexed is in
his own proper handwriting and I do further certify that
George Henry who has made the foregoing certificate of
credibility is one of the Judges of this Court, and that the
signature thereto annexed is his own proper hand
writing.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my hand & the seal of said Court
this 18th of June 1833
s/ Isaac G. Farlee Clk
Page 13

John Besson,
New Jersey
Amount deducted
returned under the
decision of
Attorney
General Butler
of July 6. 1836
---
S Pamphlet edition of
Pension Laws p. 57.
s/ D D Addison
Present

State of New Jersey
Page 14

STATE OF New Jersey
COUNTY OF Hunterdon ss.

It is hereby certified that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited before me Samuel
Hill presiding Judge of the Court of Common
Pleas in and for the County of Henderson
aforesaid
that John Besson was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States
at the rate of $120.00 per annum and that he died on the
twenty fourth day of July eighteen hundred and forty two.
leaving surviving his children Annie now the widow of
George Frocet deceased, Agesilaus, since dead
Margant wife of John Hughes, and Mary wife
of Andrew Bearder.
and that Annie Trout, Margaret Hughes and Mary
Mary Bearder are
the only surviving children of the aforesaid John Besson deceased

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed
my seal this third day of January
one thousand eight hundred and fifty two.
s/ Samuel Hill
Page 15

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County Ss.
I William Emery Clerk of the Court of Common
Pleas in and for the County of Hunterdon
aforesaid do hereby certify that Samuel Hill whose
name is subscribed to the within certificate
is at this date presiding Judge of the Court
of Common Pleas as aforesaid and that the
signature of the said Samuel Hill to said
Certificate is in his [illegible] and proper handwriting.

I witness whereof I have here
to subscribed my name and
the seal of said Court this
third day of January in the
year of One thousand
Eight hundred and fifty two
s/ Wm Emery Clerk
Page 16

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County ⎬Ss:  I Jesse C. Read
Surrogate of the County of Hunterdon
aforesaid do hereby certify that 
administration of the Goods and all
rights and credits which were of John
Besson late of the County of Hunterdon
was granted to Andrew Bearder of said
County on the twenty ninth day of August
in the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and forty two, and that the
said Andrew Bearder is still the
acting Commissioner of the estate of
the said John Beeson deceased.

In witness whereof I have
hereto subscribed my name
and affixed the seal of
my office this third day
of January A.D. One
thousand eight hundred
and fifty two
J. C. Reed
Surrogate
Page 17

March 3, 1934

John Besson-S.832
BA-J/AWF
Mrs. G. Charles Gunderson
37 Lewis Street
Perth Amboy, New Jersey

Dear Madam:

The data which follow were obtained from the
papers on file in pension claim, S. 832, based upon
the Revolutionary War service of John Besson.
He was born April 17, 1750 in Amwell Township,
Hunterdon County, New Jersey, names of his parents
not given.

While residing in said Amwell Township, John
Besson volunteered, April 1, 1775 and was elected
ensign, served at various times in Captains David
Jones' and John Phillips' companies, Colonel David
Chambers' New Jersey regiment, was in the battle of
Bound Brook, length of service one year.

He was allowed pension on his application executed,
December 12, 1832, then a resident of Amwell
Township, New Jersey.

The soldier, John Besson, died July 24, 1842,
leaving the following children Annie, who in 1852 was
the widow of George Trout; Agisilaw (?) referred to
in 1852 as deceased; Margaret, wife of John Hughes;
Mary, wife of Andrew Bearder. The name of soldier's
wife is not stated.

One Joseph Besson in 1835 gave his address as
Flemington, New Jersey; his relationship to the family
not shown.

Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator
Page 18

Claim of [blank]
Act of [blank]

STATE Of New Jusey ⎬
COUNTY of Hunter
Be it known, That on this eleventh
day of August A.D. eighteen hundred and fifty one, before the
undersigned, a Judge on the Court of Common Pleas in and 
for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared
Andrew Bearder a resident of Raritan township in said County, and
made oath according to law that he is the administrator of the
state of John Besson Senior deceased
who was a Revolutionary Pensioner residing in the County
of Hunterdon in the State of New Jersey
at the rate of one hundred and twenty Dollars per annum; that has been
informed that the said Pension ought to be increased; that he is directly interested as a claimant in
said Pension, and makes this affidavit to be filed with such additional evidence or arguments as my
Agent may use in prosecuting said claim.
s/ Andrew Bearder

Sworn to and subscribed, the day and
year aforesaid, before me.
s/ Joseph Brown
Judge &c
-
I Joseph Brown Judge of the Court of Common pleas
in and for said County do hereby certify that
Andrew Bearder who executed the foregoing paper is a
respectable resident of this County, and is, I believe, directly interested in said claim as therein set forth.
s/ Joseph Brown Judge &c

I, William Emery Clerk of the Circuit Court in the County
and State aforesaid, 
do hereby certify that Joseph Brown before whom the 
foregoing papers were executed, was, at the date of the same a jude of the Court of Common Pleas,
in and for said 
County, duly authorized by law to administer oaths; and the name thereunto subscribed is his signature.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto subscribed my name and
affixed my official Seal, this eleventh day of
August A.D. 1851.
Wm Emery Clerk
Page 19

POWER OF ATTORNEY - Revolutionary Pension Claims.
---
Know all Men by these Presents, That I, Andrew Bearder
administrator of the state of John Besson
senior late of the County of Hunterdon in
the State of New Jersey deceased do
hereby constitute and appoint D. Addison -
my true and lawful Agent and Attorney to prosecute the Claim of the estate of the said
John Beeson Senior deceased for any amount of Revolutionary Pension, 
or Increase of Pension, that may be due; and I hereby authorize
my said Agent to examine all the papers and documents in relation to said claim, on file in the Departments
at Washington City, or elsewhere; to file additional evidence or arguments; and to receive the Certificate
which may be issued for said Claim, which Certificate I wish made payable to me and
to appoint one or more substitutes under him for the purposes herein expressed; and to do all things that I
might or could do were I personally present. Hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said Attorney
and Agent shall lawfully do in the premises.
WITNESS my hand and Seal this 11th day of
August A.D. 1851.
s/ Andrew Bearder

Signed and Sealed in the presence of
s/ Joseph Brown ⎬

STATE of New Jersey
COUNTY of Hunterdon } ss.
On this eleventh day of August A.D. 1851
before me the subscriber, a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas
in and for the County aforesaid, personally appeared
Andrew Bearder and acknowledged the foregoing Power,
of Attorney to be his act and deed, for the purposes therein mentioned.

IN TESTIMONY WHERES, hereunto my hand,
the day and year aforesaid.
s/ Joseph Brown Judge
Page 20

John Besson
2121

John Besson
specifications of
Supplement [illegible]
and may be
admd
to
Ensign
6 mo Ensign
60$
Coments 26 Apl '36. & returns
certificate filed within

Jas. N. Brading Esq
Flemington
N. Jersey

to be sent to Peter J. Clark
Flemington NJ
Page 21

State of New Jersey
Hunterdon County ⎬Ss
On this twelfth day of December one thousand
eight hundred and thirty two personally appeared in
open Court before the Judges of the Inferior Court of
Common Pleas in and for the County of Hunterdon 
aforesaid John Besson of the Township and County afore
said aged Eighty two 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 was born on the 17th day of April 1750 in the
Township of Amwell aforesaid. That his age is recorded
in his fathers family bible from which he he has
transferred to his own. That he was elected Ensign of a
company raised in the Township of Amwell aforesaid
on or about the first day of April 1775. That of said
company David Jones was captain John Rockafeller
first Lieutenant and John Taylor Second Lieutenant.

That he continued in the office of Ensign holding a
commission therefor during the whole of the revolutionary 
war and was attached to and served in companies 
respectively commanded by Captain David Jones and John
Phillips, and did duty under the same at Amboy
Heddy's Mills near the Blazing Star, Raritan or
near Somerset Court House Bound Brook, Trenton
Princeton and Monmouth, but that by reason of old
age and the consequent laps of memory he cannot swear
positively as to the precise length of his services nor where
they were respectively performed, but that according to
the best of his recollection he served not less than one
year, being satisfied that the duration of his services
far exceeds this estimate, but unwilling to put the
sanction of his corporal Oath to a time or times of which
he is not entirely and perfectly assured, and for this
said service as above he claims a pension.

That he has lost his commission as Ensign as aforesaid
and that he has no documentary or other written evidence
of his revolutionary services.
Page 22

That since the revolutionary war he has resided in
the Township of Amwell aforesaid where he now
resides. That he does not know of an individual
now living who can testify to all the service rendered
by him, but that John Rockafeller the first Lieutenant
before mentioned and James Larene a private in the
company commanded by David Jones as aforesaid
know something of his services and rank and whose
affidavits are herewith & adjoined.

That he never had a written discharge. That the
Reverend John F. Clark being one of the clergymen
nearest the residence of this declarant and James
Larene will testify as to the declarants character for
veracity and their belief of his revolutionary services
And he hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a
pension or annuity except the present, and declares that
his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of
any State.
s/ JohnBesson (x his mark)

Sworn and subscribed
the day and year aforesaid
in open court-
s/ R K Reading

I James Larene of the Township of Amwell aforesaid
being duly sworn saith. That he knows that John
Besson the within declarant was elected Ensign of a
company commanded by Captain David Jones as said
declarant has stated on or about the first day of April
1775, and that said declarant held said commission
during the whole of the revolutionary war. That this
deponent was orderly Sergeant in said company, but
that he is unable to testify particularly to the services
rendered by the said declarant or to the times and
place when performed.
s/ James Larene

Sworn the day and
year aforesaid 
in open court
s/ R K Reading
Page 23

John Rockafeller of the Township of Amwell
aforesaid being duly sworn saith that John
Besson the within declarant was elected and 
commissioned as Ensign of a company commanded by
Captain David Jones on or about the first day of April
1775 at said declarant has herein set forth, and that
be held said commission during the whole of the
revolutionary war. That this deponent was elected
and commissioned first Lieutenant of said company
and held said commission during said war

That this deponent is unable to state the service
rendered by said declarant, or the time and places
where rendered, but that he well remembers of being
will said declarant doing duty at Monmouth
Princeton and Trenton - That the memory of this
deponent has so failed from old age and infirmity
that he is unwilling to take it any further.
s/ John R Rockafeller (his mark)

Sworn the day and
year aforesaid
in open court
s/ R K Reading
Page 24

The George Maxwell and James Larene residing in the
township of Amwell aforesaid (The Revd John F. Clarke the nearest Clergyman being absent from home) hereby certify that we
are well acquainted will John Besson who has subscribed 
and sworn to the above declaration, 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.
s/ G Maxwell
s/ James Larene

Sworn and subscribed
the day year aforesaid
in open court-
s/ R K Reading

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion
after the investigation of the matter, and after
putting the interrogatories prescribed by the war 
deparment. That the above named applicant was a 
revolutionary soldier and served as he states - And the court
further certifies that it appears & then that
James Larene and George Maxwell who have also signed the
same  and also the above affidavit,  residents in said township and are credible persons, and that their statement is entitled to credit
and the court do further certify that John Rockafeller
who has signed the above affidavit is a resident in said
township and is a credible person.
s/ R K Reading
Page 25


Mar 5
NJ
John Besson

[stamp] Flemington NJ March 2

Hon. James L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.
Page 26

Dr Sir
I herewith enclose additional Evidence
of John Besson as required by the Department
I hope it will be found satisfactory; to
again restore him to the rolls. I have in drawing
up the affidavits, pursued the directions from the
Department of War as was practible & I believe the objections
set forth in your letter the 12th Decr Last are
fully advised and I therefore suppose by 
annexing the present to his former declaration & proofs
his claim will be sufficiently substantiated. I am
entirely ignorant of what his previous declaration
contains should therefore the present proof be
still inadequate by so informing me, I will endeavor
to make it more full & perfect. The witness
Myers who has more to part of his services as set out
in the present affidavits is himself a Pensioner &
by examination you will find his papers & name
in your Department. Please let me hear as soon as
convenient

I must here beg leave to express my thanks for the
early attention & equitable adjustment of the claim of
James Agin.
very respectfully
your abt & humble servt
s/ James N Brading
Flemington March 2nd 1836
Page 27

Sept 26
[stamp] FLEMINTON NJ Sept 23
Jno Besson
[illegible]
17204
Hon. James L Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.

[stamp] FREE
Page 28

War Department
Pension Office
March 19th 1836

Sir

The supplemental statement of John
Besson specifies about 6 months service
only for which his future stipend may
be computed. The Pension which would
accrue at that rate would not absorb the
payments made him under the enormous rate
of his present certificate before 4th March 1839
whenever the rate is fixed upon as the time limit
of his claim, it commenced with March 1831 and
renders him accountable for what he may have
received since that date. If he should not be
able to establish more than six months, he cannot
draw before 4th Sept. 1839 at which time a
certificate would issue to him upon his 
application. In the mean time the certificate in his
possession should be returned to this office

I am very respectfully
Yr Obt. Servt
s// J L Edwards

James N. Reading
Flemington
New Jersey
sent


Flemington N.J. Sept 23rd 1839
Dear Sir
The above is a copy of a letter read from the
Department at the time it bears date, as the time
therein specified has elapsed I would beg leave to
call the attention of the Department to the case
The applicant has made no further attempt, or will
be to establish any more time than his papers already
show. He has become blind & feble & is very aged &
infirm & he knows of no witnesses by whom he could
establish more; He has returned his certificate as
Page 29

directed by the Department. Should any proof of
his still being alive be required or any informality in his
papers want correction, he would be glad to attend
to it as soon as possible,
very respectfully
your obt Servt
s/ James N Reading


Hon James L Edwards
Page 30

N. J.  Dec. 19.
[stamp] FLEMINGTON NJ
Dec 16

J. L. Edwards Esq
Commissioner of pensions
Washington City D.C.

[stamp] FREE
Page 31

Flemington Dec 16th 1835

Sir
In your answer of the 12th, you stated,
that on a reexamination of the papers of
John Besson, it was ascertained that he
was inadvertently admitted, please forward
the papers for Correction

and Oblige your
Obedient Servant
s/ Jos Besson


J L Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 32

Dec N J
[stamp] FLEMINGTON N J Dec 7

[stamp] FREE

J L Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City D.C.

John Besson
N.J.
Page 33

Flemington December 7th 1835
Sir I was requested by John Besson to write to you
as follow- John Besson of the State of New
Jersey a Pensioner of the United States, whose
Certificate is No 17204 and recorded in Book E
Vol 3 page 102- sent his attorney to the agent
at Trenton as usual for his pension in October
last, and the agent says the payment of his
pension is suspended - information as to the
cause of the Suspension will be thankfully
[illegible]
your most obedient
Sevt
s/ Jos Besson
---
Please direct to Flemington Hunterdon N. Jersey
Page 34

Issue new certificate
for 6 mo. Ensign
60$
---
deduct what has
been paid -

Jas N. Brading
Flemington
N. J.

Payments to be made
at Trenton
by J. Benton Bg. Co.
Agent for paying Pension
ers, in the Agency of
New Jersey,

new certificate to issue
after 4 March 1839
---
Apl 26. 1836
G.C.

Recorded in the Pension 
Office, in Book E. Vol. 3
age 182 by Wm R Palmer
Clerk
Page 35

WAR DEPARTMENT.
Revolutionary Claim.
I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States 
of the 7th June, 1832, John Besson
of the State of New Jersey
who was an Ensign in the Army
of the Revolution.
is entitled to receive One hundred & twenty dollars 
per annum during his natural life, commencing on
the 4th of March, 1831, and payable semi-annually on the 
4th of March, and 4th of Se[ptember] in every year.

GIVEN at the War Ofice of the United States
, this Tenth day of
August one thousand eight
hundred and thiry three.
s/ Lew Cass
Secretary of War

Examined and 
Countersigned. }
s/ J L Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 36

4 Sept 1833 Pd to 4 Sept 1833
Mar 17, 1834 Pd to 4 Mar 1834
Sept 28, 1834 Pd to 4 Sept 1834
Mar 28 1835 Pd to 4 Mar 1835

P. 17.204
Page 37

Brief in the case of John Besson, de
Hunterdon County and State of New Jersey
act June 7, 1832
---
Claim, ("original", or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
In this case the deduction from former
pension has been restored, in pursuance
of the opinion of Attorney General
Butler, See Pamphlet Edition Pension laws
p. 57
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?

Name and residence of Agent
s/ D. D. Addison
Present.

Examining Clerk.
s/ Ogden Niles
Page 38

To what time was John Besson Ensign 120$ per
anum paid at the N Jersey agency under the
act of 7 June 32?
s/ G. M. C.
March 17 '36
[illegible]

Pension Office
Dec 17, 1851.
Please state to what time John Besson, who was
pensioner on the New Jersey Roll under the old
of June 7, 1832, at the rate of $120 per annum
was last paid at that rate and when the payment of his 
pension at the reduced rate of $60 per annum was
resumed and last paid?
s/ W B N

Pesnion Office
John Besson was paid to
4th March 1835, at $120 p. an. He died
24th July 1842 and was paid to his
death at $61 an from 4th March
1831, deducting former payments from
4 Mar 1831 to 4th Mar 1835 at $ 120 per anum
[illegible signature]
Page 39

New Jersey
John Besson, [illegible]
who was an Ensign, Capt
Jones' Co New Jersey troops
---
An Act June 7, 1832
one year Ensign
$120 per Anum,
---
To commence March 9, 1831
and March 4, 1835 deduct
my former payments at
$60 per annum, in to
[illegible]
Payable to Andrew Bearder, alot
use of Annie Trout, Margaret
Hughes & Mary Bearder
[illegible] ,
s/ D. D. Addison
Present.
Page 40

New Jersey, 17,204
-
John Besson,
of Hunterdon in the State of N Jersey
who was a Ens in the Compy commanded
by Captain Jones of the Reg commanded
by [blank]  in the N. Jersey,
line for 6 mos
Redc'd for $120
---
Inscribed on the Roll of N. Jersey,
at the rate of 60 Dollars [blank] Cents per annum,
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
---
Certificate of Pension issued the 26 day of Sept
'39, and sent to James N. Brading
Flemington N. J.
---
Arrears to the 4th of Sept - $510.00r
Semi-annual allowance ending 30. 00
540.00
Special
{Revolutionary Claim, 
Act June 7, 1832. ⎬

Recorded by R. Burdine, Clerk,
Book E Vol. 3 Page 116
Repd by letter Oct. 5 '39
Page 41

notfn sent

17204
New Jersey
John Besson dec, heirs
Hunterdon in the State of New Jersey
who was an ensign in the compy commanded
by Captain Jones of the Regt [blank]
n the New Jersey
line for Six Months.

Increased now $60 per an
---
Inscribed on the Roll of Trenton
at the rate of 120 Dollars 00 Cents per 
annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
and end on 4 March 1835
---
Certificate of Pension issued the 9th day of
January 1852 and sent to
D D Addison Present
---
Arrears to the 4th of [blank]
Semi anl. allowance ending [blank]

{ Revolutionary Claim,
Act June 7, 1832. ⎬
Recorded by A Van Wyk Clerk,
Book E Vol. 3 Page 116
Page 42

Hist. to E.V.S. Besson
116 Bloomfield St.
Hoboken, N.J.
Dec 27 '99
to above thru
Hon W. D. Daly. M.C.
---
1923 Oct 26 Hist to H.C.
Wessman awf
---
1934. March 3 to Mr
G. Charles Gunderson


July 6/95
INVALID.
File No. 8321
John Besson
Ensg. N.J. Line
---
Act June 7, 1832
Index: -- Vol. E. Page 310 
[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 43

This Bureau can furnish the military
record of only such Revolutionary soldiers
as were pensioned or whose widows were
pensioned for their services.
Such of the original muster and pay
rolls of the Revolutionary War and the
War of 1812 as are now in the possession
of the Government are on file in the
Record and Pension Office, War Department.
Original rolls and other records
pertaining to service in the Revolutionary
War may also be found on file in the
archives of many of the original States.

O. W. & N. DIV.
REVOLUTIONARY.

L. W. B.
I. 832.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D. C.,
December 27th, 1899.

Sir: -
In compliance with a request on the part of Hon. William D. Daly,
you are advised that John Besson made an application for pension on
December 12th, 1832, at which time he was 82 years of age and residing
at Amwell, N. J., and his pension was allowed for one year's actual
service as an ensign in the New Jersey troops, Revolutionary war. He
enlisted at Amwell, N. J., and served under Captains Jones and Phillips
In his application he alleges that he was born at Amwell, N. J., on
April 17th, 1750.
The records of this Bureau show that you were furnished information
concerning the above soldier under date of July 6th, 1895.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

Mr. E. V. S. Besson,
116 Bloomfield Street,
Hoboken, New Jersey,
Page 44

AWF

Rev. and 1812 Wars
Section.

October 26, 1933.
H. C. Wessman,
178 Elliot St.,
Fairfield, Conn.

Sir;

I have to advise you that from the papers in
the Revolutionary War pension claim, S. 832, it
appears that John Besson was born April 17, 1750,
and on April 1, 1775 was commissioned an Ensign
and served at various times, in all one year, in
Captains David Jones' and John Phillips' Companies
in Colonel Chambers' New Jersey Regiment, until
close of the War. He was in the battle of Bound
Brook.

He was allowed pension on his application executed
December 12, 1832, while a resident of Amwell Township,
New Jersey.

He died July 24, 1843, leaving the following children
-- Annie, widow of George Trout; Agiselaw, who was
Page 45

dead in 1852; Margaret, wife of John Hughes; Mary,
wife of Andrew Bearder or Brander. The name of
soldier's wife is not on record.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.
Page 46

September 15th, 1923.
( COPY )

178 Elliot Street,
Fairfield, Conn.

Bureau of Pensions,
War Department,
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen:-

In connection with application for membership to National
Association, Daughters of Revolution, I desire to obtain
a statement of the pension office showing the status of
John Besson, who was ensign of the New Jersey State Troops
in the Revolution.

According to letter which I have from his direct descendant,
E. B. S. Besson, the records in the pension office at Washington
show that John Besson was born in Amwell Township, Hunterdon
County, New Jersey, April 17th, 1750 and died there June 24th,
1842. It is recorded that he received his pension for one
year's active service as ensign in the New Jersey line.

Furthermore, it was stated that according to records in the
pension office, Ensign John Besson enlisted in April 1775
and served to the close of the War, his pension being for
" Active Service"

Would appreciate very much if you will furnish the writer
with statement incorporating such facts as may be shown in
the pension office records for filing with National Association
at Washington.

Very truly yours,
Signed -- H. C. Wessman.

HCW: AML
Ans. Oct. 26 '23

[stamp] U S PENSION OFFICE SEP 28 1923
Page 47

September 15th, 1923.

178 Elliot Street,
Fairfield, Connecticut.

Bureau of Pensions,
War Department,
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen:-

In connection with application for membership to National
Association Daughters of Revolution, I desire to obtain
a statement of the pension office whosing the status of
John Besson, who was ensign of the New Jersey State Troops
in the Revolution.

According to letter which I have from his direct descendant,
E. B. S. Besson, the records in the pension office at Washington
show that John Besson was born in Amwell Township, Hunterdon
County, New Jersey, April 17th, 1750 and died there June 24th,
1842. It is recorded that he received his pension for one
year's active service as ensign in the New Jersey line.

Furthermore, it was stated that according to records in the
pension office, Ensign John Besson enlisted in April 1775
and served to the close of the War, his pension being for
" Active Service".

Would appreciate very much if you will furnish the writer
with statement incorporating such facts as may be shown in
the pension office records for filing with National Association
at Washington.

Very truly yours,
s/ H C Wessman
HCW: AML

ASSISTANT AND CHIEF CLERK
SEP 17 1923
WAR DEPT.
Pension

[stamp] U S. PENSION OFFICE SEP 18 1923
Page 48

September 27th, 1923.

178 Elliot Street,
Fairfield, Conn.

Bureau of Pensions,
War Department,
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen:-

Enclosed you will find copy of letter sent to
your department under date of September 15th.
May I expect to receive an early response to
this matter?

Very truly yours,
s/ H C Wessman
HCW:AML

Ans Oct 26 '23

[STAMP] U S PENSION OFFICE SEP 28 1923
Page 49

October 10th, 1923.

178 Elliot Street,
Fairfield, Conn.

Bureau of Pensions,
War Department,
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen:-

Please see my letter of September 15th also follow
up letter of September 27th enclosing copy of original
letter requesting certain information regarding the
status of John Besson during the war of the Revolution.

Will you be kind enough to acknowledge this letter,
indicating whether the information asked for is available
from your records.

Very truly yours,
s/ H C Wessman
HCW:AML

[STAMP] U S PENSION OFFICE OCT 11 1923
Page 50

Perth Amboy N.J.
Feb. 15 '34

Mr. Earl D. Church
Commissioner of U.S. Dept of Interior,
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Sir,

I am searching to fit together lines
for extra bars in my D.A.R.
Do you have any soldiers with 
the following names who fought
in the Revolution and what knowledge
do you have of them?
Christopher Tinsman
William Welch
George Taylor
William Mettler
John Besson

There all lived in land that was
Hunterdon County, N. Jersey

I will appreciate any help.

Sincerely yours
s/ Fanny H. Gunderson

(Mrs. G. Chas. Gunderson
37 Lewis St.
Perth Amboy, N. J.

Stamped env. inc.
M
Page 51

13

No 116 Bloomfield Street
Hoboken, N.J. June 26th 1895.
Commissioner of Pensions
Dear Sir: 
Please inform
me at your earliest convenience if the name of
John Besson appears on the pension rolls
as a soldier of the War of the Revolution from
New Jersey and if so, the date in regard to
same.

Yours respectfully
s/ E. W. S. Benson
Page 52

O. W. & N. Division.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
M. E. C.
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C. July 6, 1895.

Sir:

In reply to your request for a statement of the military history
of -- John Besson -- a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR,
you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his
widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.

[table with one entry]
DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. | Apr. 1775 to close of the war.
LENGTH OF SERVICE. | [blank]
RANK | Ensign
OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED
CAPTAIN. | David Jones & John Phillips
 COLONEL. | Lt. John Rockafeller N. J.
His pension was allowed for one years actual service as an
Ensign in the New Jersey line.
-
Battles engaged in, None mentioned.
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Amwell, Hunterdon Co., N. J.
Date of application for pension, December 12, 1832.
Residence at date of application, December 12, 1832.
Age at date of application, Born April 17, 1750.
Remarks: Born April 17, 1750.

Very respectfully,
Acting
Commission

Mr. E. V. S. Besson,
110 Bloomfield St.,
Hoboken, N. J.