Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 5,529, for James Pearce, North Carolina
Page 1

(3-1776)

SERVICE  N.C.
Pearce, James
Margaret
NUMBER  W.5529
_________________
CONTENTS
[blank]
Page 2

474 [page tear]
Tennessee
_______________
Margaret Pearce
widow of James Pearce who died on the 1 April 1833 of Washington Co the state of Tennessee who was a Capt in the -- commanded by Captain -- of the Regt. commanded by SC in the [blank] line for [blank]
_________________
Inscribed on the Roll of Jonesborough at the rate of 140 Dollars 00 Cents per annum to commence on the 1st day of ["March" crossed out] ^April, 1850 and sent to Hon Andrew Johnson HR
__________________
Payable to Thomas Gibson adm~
Arrears to the 4th of [blank]
Semi-annual allowance ending [blank]
for sole use of surviving children
James Pearce, Sarah Gibson & Rebecca Collins

{Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section [illegible] }

Recorded by J. P. Chase Clerk,
Book  D.   Vol.  2    Page 416


Admd.
hist. & payt May 24/50

Hon NG Taylor Mch 8 1855
Page 3

let to Hon A Johnson Dec 15. 1846


5945.
Jonesboro' Agency
__________________
James Pierce [sic; Pearce]
of Washington in the State of Tennessee who was a Capt:  in the _________ commanded by Captain _________ of the Regt commanded by Col: Sevier in the N. Car: line for 7 mo: 3 days from 1779~

_________________________
Inscribed on the Roll of Jonesboro'. Agency at the rate of 140 Dollars 45 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 183.
____________________
Certificate of Pension issued the 20. day of Feby. 1833- and lieut Hon John Blair, H. of Reps.
____________________
Arrears to 4th of Sept 1832             210.6
[illegible for page tear]
Semi=anl. allowance ending 4 Mar:33.
                                                           70.23
                                                      _________
                                                      $280.90

{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832. }

Recorded by Nathan Rice__ Clerk,
Book  D    Vol.  9     Page 208.
Page 4

Capt James Pearce

from 1779 Captain 
7 months & 3 days,

$140.45

Jonesborough Agency,

Capn James Pearce
___________________
1189.3


Hon. J: Blair
Page 5

State of Tennessee    Washington County
September Twelve 1832

On this 12th day of September 1832. personally appeared in open court before the Honorable Samuel Powel. Juddge [sic] of the Circuit Court of Law & Equity for said County now sitting James Pearce. formerly a citizen of Washington County. Tennessee. Now a resident of Sevier County in the state aforesaid aged Eighty four years who being 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. towit, [sic; to wit] That he entered the service of the united States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated That in the year 1779 he was a resident of [strikethrough] Washington County now Tennessee. then in the State of North Carolina. which county was then a frontier and bordered on the Nation of Cherokee Indians. who were in liege with the British in  the war of the Revolution and were at that time, and before, and after. committing murders and depredations on the said frontier in which he resided. that in the summer of 1779. he raised a company of Volunteers in sd. county of (now ^Washington Green) by order of Colonel John Sevier. and marched his sd. company to French broad River. then the Indian territory. now Cock & Sevier counties Tennessee. after said Indians in company with Capn. Jacob Brown. who also commanded a Volunteer company from Washington County ^now Tennessee. there being no officers of higher grade in company with us during sd. Tour than Capn. which grade this declarant occupied. he states that the object of said Tour was to prevent the Indians from crossing [illegible] and getting into the frontier settlements. he states that he was out nineteen days after sd Indians. Sd. Tour. and commanded sd. Company as capn. He states that in the spring of 1780. he again rased [sic; raised] a Volunteer company in the said County of ^Washington (now Green). and marched to the Beaver dam on Lick Creek. where the Indians had come in on the frontier settlements and Killed one man. and assisted in forting and guarding the frontier for the Service of two weeks. when he returned
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home. he states that early in the fall of 1780. he with his company volunteered under Colonel Sevier then of Washington County North Carolina. now Tennessee. this declarant being a resident of ^the territory now (Green) County Tennessee and marched to what is now Carter County Tennessee to Gap Creek. where Colonel Campbells Regiment Joined. Colonel Sevier, Campbells Regiment being from the western part of Virginia, we were Joined by Colonel Hadleys Regiment from Sullivan County (now Tenn) was marched on to Kings mountain ^across the yellow mountain by way of Burke, he states that they were Joined by the southern Troops [strikethrough] under the command of Coln. Cleveland but at what particular plan he does not recollect., he states that there was a hard battle fought on Kings Mountain. which Battle he was in and commanded his said company under Colonel Sevier. in which Battle the american army was successful. the British ["General" crossed out] Colonel was Killed, and his army principally Killed and taken prisoners he states that he marched his company home and discharged them in ^(now) Green County ^now Tennessee (Verbally.) often having served a full [underlined] three months [end underline] Tour. he states that immediately after his return ho to Green County. he received orders from Colonel Sevier to march with his company to gard [sic; guard] the frontier neighborhood on the Lick Creek flats against the Cherokee Indians and to prevent Indian spies from getting into the white settlement, where he remained with his company. Serving as aforesaid [strikethrough] & awaiting the march of Col Sevier whom he was to join & before whose [illegible] remained the Tour of ten [strikethrough] days. when he marched his company and Joined Colonel Seviers regiment on Long Creek now Jefferson County Tennessee-. in accordance with the order of the sd Colonel Sevier. from thence marched over French Broad River Encamped on Boyds Creek, marched about six miles on the following morning was attacked by the Indians. had a Battle in which the Indians were defeated
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with the loss of Eleven of their men, (none of the whites were Killed.) found Protection papers. ^also British Colony from. thence the Regiment returned to an Island in the French broad River and Encamped there some days waiting for Colonel Campbells Regiment from Western Virginia. after the arrival of Colonel Campbell. were then marched on to the Indian Towns, which they burned and destroyed had several skirmishes. Killed some Indians. and took some prisoners and returned home where he discharged his men (verbally) after having served the full Tour of three months in said campaign, That in the several tours before stated he served seven months and some days, and commanded as a Captain during the whole time, being elected by the company in which he resided their Captain, & recognized by Col Sevier, the distance from the seat of Government being very Great & the chain of mountains & unsettled country intervening furnishing such obstacle, the officers of the militia elected in that pention [sic] received no regular commissions ^at the time but acted upon the authority of the election by the companies, & recognition of the Superior officer ^and received his commission [illegible] his march to Kings Mountain in North Carolina he resided as stated in Green County, then Washington & then resided for many years, has recently removed to Sevier, & there resides at this time, but is now residing amongst those who knew nothing of his Revolutionary
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services, which he assigns as the reason for applying to the Court of Washington County. that being the theatre of his services in part & the place where his company in arms then resided; what is Lost by death, of proof of actual servitude, is in some mean and  handled by the addition ^being to the present generation, & the report & belief of this declarant having been a revolutionary soldier is here: abundant. That he has no documentary evidence. nor does he know of any person by whom he can establish his services, from testimony as to the performance save that hereto annexed, nor is there a minister of the Gospel in his vicinity or elsewhere to his knowledge who can make the certificate contained in the instruction, of the War Department-

He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state. 

Sworn to & subscribed in open court this the 12th September 1832
Test. S/Jas V Anderson Clk
S/ James Pearce
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State of Tennessee }
Washington County }
We Charles Robison & Jacob Brown residing in the County of Washington do certify that we are well acquainted with James Pierce who  has subscribed & sworn to the above & foregoing declaration, that we believe him to be Eighty four years of age; that he is reputed & believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a revolutionary soldier and that we concur in that opinion, +but has now removed to Sevier County, from his former [illegible] neighborhood.

Sworn to & subscribed in open Court this 1 [illegible]th September 1832.
S/Gerb Jas V Anderson Clk
Charles [X his mark Robeson]
S/Jacob Brown


and the said court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter, and after propounding the interrogatories prescribed by the war Department, that the above named applicant was s revolutionary soldier & served as he states, and the Court further certifies that it appears to him that Charles Robeson & Jacob Brown - who signed the preceeding certificate are resident citizens of the County of Washington within the State of Tennessee, and are credible persons, and that their statement is entitled  to credit.
S/S. Powes Judge of the Circuit County of the State of Tennessee


I James V Anderson clerk of the Circuit Court of [illegible] & Equity for the County of Washington do certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings in the matter of the application of James Pearce [illegible], I also certify Levi Bowers is an acting Justice, of the peace for the County of Washington 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed my seal of office this 22d September 1832.
S/Jas V Anderson Clk
Page 10

James Sevier a citizen of Washington County appeared before me Levi Bowers an acting Justice of the peace for the said County of Washington and made oath that he knew the declarant James Pearce before his service, set forth, and knew of him having served in the expedition of Kings mountain & that immediately following against the Cherokee Indians in 1780. 1 and was with him in said expeditions in which he commanded as a captain.

Sworn to & subscribed before me this date above.
S/Levi Bowers
Justice of the peace
S/Jas Sevier

[down left margin] 
By John Blair
[down right margin] 
Capn. Jas Pierce


Capt James Pearce
from 1779 Captain 7 month & 3 days,
$140.45

Jonesborough Agency


Hon J. Mclain


Capn James Pearce
____________

Blair Levi
_____________
Page 11

Jeremiah Farnsworth
Justis [sic] of the peace
Page 12

James Pearce was Born March the 24 " 1748

Margaret Peace was Born febbry the 4 " 1755

the father and mother of the under names
_________________
George Pearce Born March the 10 " 1772

Elizebeth Pearce was Born in June the 17 " 1774

John Pearce was Born in May the 15 " 1776

Mary Pearce was Born in Aprile the 20 " 1778

Sarah Pearce was Born in August the 30 " 1780

Rebecka Pearce was Born in March the 2 " 1783

Margret Pearce was Born in Aprile the 19 " 1785

Soloman Pearce was Born in februey the 14 " 1787

James Pearce was Born in May the 14 " 1789

Orpah Pearce was Born in Septemb the 20 " 1791

Jeremiah Pearce was Born in December the 26 " 1793

Thomas Pearce was Born in march the 2 " 1796

Charlote Pearce was Born in Aprile the 10 : 1800
Page 13

Declaration
of Thomas Gibson, Administrator on the estate of Margaret Pearce, widow of Capt. James Pearce, in order to obtain the amount of Pension due the said Margaret at her death under the 3d. section of the Act of Congress of the 4th of July 1836.


State of Tennessee }
Washington County } ss
County Court. April Term }
Monday the 5th 1847 }
On this fifth day of April 1847, personally appeared in open court, now sitting Thomas Gibson, a resident of the county and state aforesaid, aged Fifty eight years past, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain the amount of Pension due to Margaret Pearce at her death under the ["3d section of the" crossed out] 3d. section of the act of Congress of the 4th of July 1836 viz:

That he is the son in law of Capt. James Pearce and his wife Margaret, having intermarried with their daughter Sarah; and Administrator on the estate of the said Margaret; and that he now makes this Declaration for the purpose of obtaining the amount of Pension due the said Margaret at her death, under the 3d. Section of the aforesaid act of Congress of 4th July 1836, on account of the revolutionary service of her husband the late Capt. James Pearce for the benefit of the surviving children and heirs at law of the said Capt. Pearce and his wife the said Margaret deceased.

Affiant further declares that he has every reason to believe that the said Capt. Pearce was an officer, with the rank of Captain in  the war of the revolution, particularly as, from the fact that he was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States at the rate of $140.00 per annum, on the Jonesboro Tennessee roll, under the act of Congress of the 7th June 1832. For the particulars of his revolutionary service in the North Carolina
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Line, affiant refers to his. (Capt. Pearce's) Declaration and other papers, now on file, as he supposes, in the Pension office at Washington City. Affiant further declares that he has always understood from the said Capt. James Pearce and his wife Margaret (whose maiden name was Margaret Dungan) that they were married in the county of Frederick, State of Maryland prior to the war of the revolution : and from circumstances. and the ages of their children he believes they were married in the year Seventeen hundred and seventy one - that the said James and Margaret were both residents of Berkley County Virginia at the time of the marriage, but owing to the laws of that state prohibiting the issuance of marriage license to minors, and the said Margaret being under age they crossed the Potomac river and were married in Frederick County, state of Maryland.

As evidence of the marriage, Affiant submits the accompanying testimony of John Waddil. James Sevier and Affidavit of James Pearce junior, together with a copy of the original family register thereto annexed.

Affiant further declares that he has every reason to believe that said original family register is lost or destroyed so that it cannot be found.

That the said Capt. James Pearce formerly resided in Washington county, afterwards in Greene and lastly in Sevier county, all of Tennessee, where he died on the first day of April One thousand eight hundred and thirty three as will more fully appear from the testimony of the said James Pearce jun. For further proof of his death affiant refers to papers presented at the Pension agency in Jonesboro Tennessee, when the widow drew the amount due her deceased husband about the year 1833 or "34, which proof he supposes is on file in the pension office at Washington City.

Affiant further declares that the said Margaret Pearce continued to be a widow after the death of her said husband, and died at his residence in Washington county Tennessee on the Twentieth day of February one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven, as will more fully appear by the certificate
Page 15

of the county court of Washington county, leaving Sarah now Sarah Gibson, a resident of Washington county Tennessee; Rebecca now Rebecca Collins and James Pearce jun. both of Rhea county Tennessee only surviving children and heirs at Law of the said Capt. James and Margaret Pearce. He further states that his information is that George, John, Mary and Solomon Pearce are dead: that the remainder of the children removed Westward many years ago, and have not been heard of, with any certainty for the last Ten years, therefore affiant does not know whether they are living or dead: and if living does not know the place of their residences, and that all his enquiries have been unsuccessful.

Affiant further declares that the estate of the said Margaret Pearce, or the Pension claimed on her account, will not be applied to the payment of any debts or liabilities, but will be disposed of by him as administrator, and one of the heirs, to those who are entitled as children and heirs at law of the said Capt. James and Margaret Pearce.
S/Thomas Gibson.

Sworn to and subscribed in open court. at the court House in Jonesboro the day and year first written -- The court further certify that the above named Thomas Gibson is the Son-inlaw of the said Capt. James and Margaret Pearce, having intermarried with their daughter Sarah- that he is of good character and respectability whose statement is entitled to the highest credit and that he is the lawful Administrator in the estate, rights &c. of the said Margaret

Satisfactory evidence being addressed, the court further certify that the said Capt. James Pearce formerly resided in our county of Washington, afterwards in Greene county and lastly in Sevier county Tennessee, and that he died in said county of Sevier on the first day of April One thousand eight-hundred and thirty three, and that he and the said Margaret resided together as husband and wife until he died. and that
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the said Capt. Pearce was a revolutionary pensioner of the united states. - that the said Margaret continued to be a widow and died in. our county of Washington on the Twentieth day of February one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven, leaving Sarah now Sarah Gibson a resident of Washington County Tennessee, Rebecca now Rebecca Collins and James Pearce jun. both of Rhea county Tennessee only children and heirs at law of the said Capt. James & Margaret Pearce known to be living -   The court approve of all the papers and proceedings in the case and order that the Clerk endorse the approval of the court on the papers

Done in Open Court at Jonesboro Tennessee this 5th day of April 1847.
S/RS Ferguson
Chairman
Page 17

April 22, 1939

Mr. Sam K. Leming
Waldron
Arkansas

BA-J/AWF
James Pearce
W. 5529

Dear Sir:
The record of James Pearce which is furnished herein was obtained from papers on file in claim for pension, W. 5529, based on his military service in the Revolutionary War.

James Pearce was born March 24, 1748, place not shown, nor are the names of his parents given.

While a resident of Washington County, North Carolina (later Greene County, Tennessee) which bordered on the Cherokee Nation, James Pearce, by order from Colonel John Sevier, raised a company of volunteers in the summer of 1779 and marched with his company to the French Broad River to present the Indians from crossing, was out nineteen days. He raised a company of volunteers in the spring of 1780, he, with his company, volunteered under Colonel Sevier and marched to King's Mountain, was in that battle, length of service three months. Immediately after his return home, he received orders from Colonel Sevier to guard the frontiers against the Cherokee Indians, marched his company over to the French Broad River, had an engagement with the Indians, burned some of their towns, length of this service three months.

Pension was allowed on his application executed
Page 18

April 22, 1939


BA-J/AWF
Mr. Sam K. Leming
Page 19

September 12, 1832, at which time he was a resident of Sevier County, Tennessee, "formerly a resident of Washington County, North Carolina."

["John" crossed out] James Pearce died April 1, 1833, in Sevier County, Tennessee.

["John" crossed out] James Pearce married sometime in the year 1771, in Frederick County, Maryland, Margaret Dungan. She was born February 4, 1755, was the daughter of Jeremiah Dungan, name of her mother was not given; her father and mother in 1779 and 1780 ^were living in Washington County, North Carolina.

At the time of the marriage of James Pearce and Margaret Dungan, they were both living in Berkeley County, Virginia.

The widow, Margaret Pearce, died February 20, 1837 in Washington County, Tennessee, at the home of her sin-in-law, Thomas Gibson.

The following are the names of the children of James Pearce, and wife, ["Mary" crossed out] Margaret, as showin in the claim-

George    born    March      10, 1772
Elizabeth    "        June         17, 1774
John           "        May         15, 1776
Mary           "       April          20, 1778
Sarah          "       August      30, 1780
Rebecka     "        March         2, 1783
Margret      "       April          19, 1785
Solomon     "      February    14, 1787
James         "       May           14, 1789
Orpah         "      September  20, 1791
Jeremiah     "      December  26, 1793
Thomas       "     March           2, 1796
Charlotte     "     April            10, 1800

The widow, Margaret Pearce, was survived by the following children who were allowed the pension due her- Sarah, wife of Thomas Gibson of Washington County,
Page 20

3-

Tennessee; Rebecca (Rebecka) Collins of Rhea County, Tennessee; James Pearce of Rhea County, Tennessee.

The Thomas Gibson referred to above was fifty-eight years of age in 1847, he was referred to also, as the nephew of the widow, Margaret Pearce; he was deceased in 1854. 

James Pearce, Jr., referred to his nephew, James Pearce in 1847, but did not give the names of his parents.

In 1847 Pleasant Gibson was of Washington County, Tennessee; it was not stated that he was related to the family.

The papers on file in this claim contain no further discernible family data.

Very truly yours
[signature area blank]
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator
Page 21

State of Tennessee } ss.
Greene County }
Be it known, that on the ninth day of February one thousand eight hundred and forty seven, before me, Jeremiah Farnsworth, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county and state aforesaid, personally appeared, James Pearce, a resident of Rhea County Tennessee, aged Fifty seven years past, who doth upon his oath make the following affidavit relative to his Father, Captain James Pearce, and his mother Margarett Pearce, and the Record hereunto annexed; on the back of which I have written my name officially, viz:- That he is the son of the said Capt. James Pearce, late a revolutionary pensioner of the United States, and the said Margarett - That his father the said Capt. Pearce was a pensioner under the act of congress of 7th June 1832, at the rate of one hundred and forty dollars per annum, or there= about; on account of his services in the War of the Revolution - and that he died in Sevier county Tennessee on the first day of April Eighteen hundred and thirty three. leaving his mother the said Margarett as his widow Affiant states that he saw his father during his sickness, witnessed his death and was at the burying.- That his mother the said Margarett died, as he has been credibly informed, in Washington County Tennessee in the month of February Eighteen hundred and thirty seven.

That in the year Eighteen hundred and Eighteen, Affiant visited his father and mother in Sevier county
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state aforesaid; that while he was there, he caused a copy of the original family record of his father, to be taken, showing the births of the children of the said Capt. Pearce and his wife. Margarett, as well as their own births (Which copy he exhibited to me, and as before stated, my name is written on the back)

Affiant is certain, that said copy is a correct and true copy of the original, from the fact that affiant gave out from the original, while his Nephew James Pearce wrote the names and dates upon the paper above alluded to. hereunto annexed, which copy. affiant states, has been in his possession ever since, and which he is well satisfied was correctly written by his said Nephew, and which he deems genuine.

As to the original family record, affiant further states, that it was always regarded by his father as a correct record, which was kept in a Bible belonging to his father - that he (affiant) has not seen said Bible or original record since he took a copy of it in Eighteen hundred and eighteen - nor does he know it is now extant, but that in all probability it is lost or destroyed, and that said original record appeared in the handwriting of his father.

Affiant further states, that he has always understood form his father and mother, that they, before marriage, resided in Berkley County Virginia - that in consequence of her being under age, they crossed the Potomac river into Frederick county Maryland and were married; but whether they were married by License or publication
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affiant is unable to say.

Affiant further states, that the reason why he makes the affidavit in Greene, instead of Rhea county, where he resides, is because, he is a witness in the circuit court of Greene, now in session and came prepared, by request, to do so.

James Pearce Sworn and subscribed before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace the day and year first written. I further certify, that I was personally acquainted with Captain James Pearce, mentioned in the foregoing affidavit, while he was a resident of the aforesaid county of Greene, and that he was the reputed father of affiant, with whom I am also personally acquainted, and have been for many years - that he was formerly a resident of said county of Greene, and resides, as I have every reason to believe, in the county of Rhea aforesaid, but is now attending the Circuit Court of Greene county as a witness - that having been a neighbor to Affiant, in said County of Greene, for several years I can safely say that he is an honest man of good character and respectability, whose testimony is entitled to full faith and credit in any court or office in the United States

Given under my hand in Greenville, in the County of Greene, State of Tennessee this 9th day of February 1847.
S/Jeremiah Farnsworth
Justice of the peace
Page 24

State of Tennessee } ss.
Greene County }
I George W. Fonte Clerk of the county court of said county do certify, that Jeremiah Farmsworth Esq, whose name appears to the foregoing certificate, is now, and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for said county, duly elected and qualified according to law: and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal of office at office in Greenville this 13th day of April 1847.

S/Geo. W. Fonte, Clk.
[star shaped seal]
Page 25

Wm Waldo
Please have the within testimony appropriately filed case reexamined & reported to me.
S/A Taylor

Margaret Pearce
Jas - Ten - w 1836 .
Cole
Page 26

State of Tennessee }
Washington County }
On this 5th day of June 1854, before me an acting Justice in & for said County, personally came Vincent Boreing, a resident of said County, who upon oath duly administered doth state that he is the acting Executor of the estate of Thomas Gibson dec'd, who intermarried with a Sarah Pearce, the daughter of Margaret Pearce, who was the wife, and widow, of Capt. James Pearce, a soldier of the Revolution in the North Carolina service; that said Capt. James Pearce was pensioned under act 7 June '32, at $140.45 per annum from 4" Mch 1831, was pensioned at the same rate per annum, & paid to hi as the Ex: of Thos Gibson, who was the admr. of Margaret Pearce up to 20 Feby 1837, when the sd Mrs: Pearce died, the said pension having been set about for distribution to James Pearce, Rebecca Collins formerly Rebecca Pearce, & Sarah Gibson, formerly Sarah Pearce, the only children and heirs alive of sd Mrs: Magt Pearce, and Capt. James Pearce.- States further that he is advised & believes that the sd Capt. James Pearce, the widow, was pensioned at too low a rate, that he is entitled to a full Captain's pay, a larger sum than $140.45 per annum that he is advised that he served a term of at least 2 years in the Revolution, in the North Carolina service: & he respectfully asks that a reexamination of his original papers be had, as also a reference be made to the North Carolina rolls, and that he as the Executer, be advised if there appears anything further due the said heirs at law - & the necessary steps to be taken to receive the same.

Sworn to & subscribed before me on this day & year aforesaid. And I state that I am in no [illegible] interested or concerned in this claim~
S/Calvin Hoss
Justice of the Peace
S/Vincent Boreing
Executor of Thomas Gibson decd.
Page 27

State of Tennessee }
Washington County }
I do hereby certify that Calvin Hoss Esq whose genuine official signature appears to the within declaration was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the Peace in & for said County duly elected, commissioned & qualified-

I further certify that it appears from the records in my office that Vincent Boreing Esq whose genuine signature appear therein is the Executor of the estate of Thos. Gibson dec'd-

Witness my hand & official seal of office in Jonesborough on this 3rd June 1854.
S/WH Smith
Clerk of sd Chjsct.



Wm Waldo
Please have the within testimony appropriately filed case reexamined & reported to me.
S/A Taylor

Margaret Pearce
Jas - Ten - w 1836 .
Cole
Page 28

State of North Carolina }
Buncombe County } SS.
Be it known that on the Seventeenth day of August in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and forty six, before me John A. Faggia Justice of the Peace in and for Said County, personally appeared, John Waddle, a resident of the County and state aforesaid aged Eighty One years and Nine months, who after being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following statement relative to Capt: James Pearce late an officer during the war of the Revolution and his wife Margarett viz:- According to information derived from my father & mother I was born in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania on the 1st day of November, Seventeen hundred and Sixty four - consequently, I was Eighty one years of age in November 1845. My father removed to the Territory of North Carolina, west of the Blue ridge in the year 1775. and settled on Nolichucky river, in what was afterwards called the District of Washington, now Washington County Tennessee at which time I was about Eleven years of age. I afterwards became acquainted with James Pearce, who was afterwards called Capt. Pearce and his wife Peggy or Margaret. I lived on Nolachucky river, three miles from Pearce's. Pearce had a mill on Limestone Creek where he resided. I often went to the mill to get my corn ground, and I there became acquainted with Mr. and Mrs. Pearce. I entered the service of my country as a mounted Ranger, under Capt. Thomas Pearce in June 1777 in Washington County, North Carolina and served until January 1778. These dates I am certain, are correct. The year after this service ended viz:- in 1779. the said James Pearce built his mill in Limestone. In this year I became acquainted with the said James Pearce and his wife Peggy or Margarett. I still knew them at the
Page 29

same place in Seventeen hundred and Eighty and Eighty one - Pearce then sold his mill place to Col. John Sevier, afterwards Gov. of Tennessee, who was my father in law - and removed to the mouth of Richland creek on Nolachucky - I was at Pearce's house in Greene County Tennessee in the year 1810 and him and his wife the said Margarett were still living together.

I can therefore say with certainty that I knew the said James Pearce and and his wife Margarett to live together as husband and wife on Limestone in the year Seventeen hundred and seventy nine, Eighty, and Eighty one, in Washington County or District of Washington of North Carolina, at which time they had two or three children, and from the size of the oldest child, I believe they must have been married some six or seven years previous - I also knew Mrs. Pearce's father old Jeremiah Dungan and her mother, at the same time I became acquainted with Pearce & his wife -  they all lived in the same County at that time viz:- in 1779 & 1780 - The James Pearce I have mentioned is the same Capt. James Pearce who drew a Pension on account of his military service in the war of the Revolution. 
S/John Waddill

Sworn and subscribed before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for said county the day and year first written. I further certify that John Waddill is personally known to me. that he is a resident of said county of Buncombe and is a very intelligent and respectable witness of good character, who would be believed on oath or otherwise by those who know him and that his testimony is entitled to full faith and credit in any court or office in the United states. I further certify that Affiant is a man of considerable information and.
Page 30

is a good scholar -- Given under my hand in Buncombe County, North Carolina this Seventeenth day of August 1846

S/J A Fagg
Justice of the peace


state of North Carolina }
Buncombe County } SS.
I Alexander Henry Clerk of the Court of Pleas and quarter sessions in and for said county, do hereby certify, that John A. Fagg Esq. whose name appears to the foregoing Certificate, is now, and was at the date thereof, an Acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, duly appointed and qualified according to law. and that the signature purporting to be his appears in his own proper handwriting and is genuine.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and affix my seal of office at office in Ashville, County and state aforesaid this 7th day of November 1846

S/Alex Henry Clk


State of North Carolina }
Buncombe County } SS
I James W. Patton  Chairman of the Court of Pleas and quarter sessions in and for said County, do hereby certify that Alex. Henry whose name appears to the foregoing certificate is now, and was at the date thereof the Clerk of said Court, duly elected and qualified according to law, and that the signature purporting to be his, appears in his own proper handwriting and is genuine
Given under my hand in the County aforesaid This [illegible] day of November 1846. 
S/Jas. W. Patton
Clk. C. Court 
[personal seal]
Page 31

Greenville Tennessee
Dec. 27 1849

Dear Sir.
Enclosed you will find papers in the case of Mrs Margaret Pearce, widow of Capt. James Pearce. By way of refreshing your memory I enclose your letter to me of the 13th Feb. 1847.

That you may fully understand this case, permit me to bore you with its history.

Capt. James Pearce applied for a pension under the act of 7th June 1832.

He died April 1st 1833, before the pension was allowed.

His widow, Margaret Pearce, received the amount due her husband at his death.

As their marriage took place before the termination of Pearce's last service, she was entitled to a Pension under the act of 4th July 1836, but did not apply.

Mrs. Pearce died Feb. 20. 1837, and was entitled to a pension the moment the act of  4th July 1836 passed, at the rate of $140.45 per annum, viz: from the date of her husband's death to her own.

The time intervening between her husband's and her own death is 3 years, 10 month, 19 days, amounting about $540.00

This amount being due the widow, and she
Page 32

having died without applying, becomes a vested right in the children.

Thomas Gibson of Washington county. nephew and son in law of Mrs Pearce, also administrator of her estate, applied in behalf of the children for the amount due from the 1st. April 1833 to the 20th of Feb. 1837: his Declaration being drawn under the act of 4th July 1836. and sworn to in open Court at Jonesboro in April or May 1847.

The proofs and papers on file in the pension office are as follows
 1st. Declaration, properly authenticated.

2nd. Copy of Family register, shewing [sic] that the first child of James & Margaret Pearce was born March 10 1772. This copy is sworn to by James Pearce jun. and satisfactorily accounts for the absence of the original.

3d. It is alleged that the marriage took place in Frederick county Maryland in 1770 or 1771. The Certificate of the Clerk of Frederick county now on file shows that there is no evidence of marriages on file in his office prior to 1799. ["and that the records are defective" crossed out] This Certificate opens the way for the admission of an inferior grade of testimony viz: the copy of the family register. and affidavit of John Waddill and Doct. Kinney, all on file, and shews conclusively that Pearce and his wife Margaret were living together long before his
Page 33

service at "Kings mountain" and "Lick Creek flats" in 1780.

4th  The affidavit of John Waddill shews that he was a neighbor to Pearce in 1779 & 1780. that he was well acquainted with Pearce & his wife at that time: frequently went to Pearce's mill on Limestone creek, Washington county, N. C. at which dates they had 2 or 3 children, and Waddill states by what circumstances in his own history he arrives at these dates.

5th. The evidence of James Sevier, through Doct. Kinney corroborates Waddills testimony and is also on file.

Enclosed is the letter of Mr. Edwards dated 11th May 1847, requiring that the service [underlined] of Pearce and his grade [underlined] of Captain be established by the Certificate of the Comptroller of N: Carolina.

The Comptroller writes me of late date, that the records in his office do not shew the grade [underlined] of Pearce. That deficiency is supplied by the enclosed affidavit of John Waddill.

The enclosed Certificate of the Comptroller shows that Pearce received for Military service [pound symbol] 143.1.8. The currency of N. Carolina is 8 shillings to the dollar, and $2.50 cents to the Pound.
143. 1. 8 
    20---- shillings or $2.50 to the pound
___________
8) 2.861 shillings, which divide by 8. to reduce to dollars & cents.
____________
$357-76    Pearce served upwards of 7 months.
Divide $357.76 cents by 7. and we have the
Page 34

monthly pay for a Captain of Infantry. This amount may be a little too much. but there was no doubt small terms of service Pearce received pay for, not claimed in his Declaration because he was not able to prove such service

       7) 357.76
         _________
           $51.10 +6
What the pay of a Captain was in the revolution I am not able to say, but supposed that $51. per month is not far from the mark "Proclamation money" existed long before the revolution and was estimated at 10 shillings to the dollar.

The children cannot avail themselves of the law of 1st July 1848, as you will see by the letter of Mr Edwards dated Aug. 16. 1849. I infer from this letter, that the proof of the marriage is satisfactory since the Certificate of the Clerk of the court of Frederick county, Md. has been filed. No further proof is required by this letter except proof of service according to the requirements of Mr. Edwards letter of 11 May 1847. also enclosed.

I am anxious to get this allowance made, and will of course, take it as a great favor, if you will take some pains to accomplish a favorable result. If you think it best you can see Mr Edwards personally, if not. send him my letter enclosed, with the affidavit of Waddill and Certificate of Comptroller. 

Respectfully
B. Mc.Daniel


Hon. A Johnson }
Washington }
Page 35

Maryland Frederick County court;
I William B. Tyler Clerk of Frederick County Court do certify that after examination I do not find any record of Marriages prior to the year 1799. In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and affix the seal of Frederick County Court this 9th day of April 1845

S/W. B. Tyler 
Clk.



Frederick    Apl 9 '1849

B McDaniel Esq

Sir
Yours of the 29th Nov was just recd. being the first intimation recd. at the office of your wishes in the promised if the annexed certificate it is hoped will answer your purposes

Respectfully
Wm B. Tyler


Cost, 25cl
Page 36

James L Edwards
Page 37

Greenville Tennessee
April 13 1847

Sir
Enclosed are the papers in the case of Margaret Pearce, claiming a pension under the act of congress of 4th July 1836-

You will see from the letter of Thos. Gibson that I act as agent. Be pleased to inform me of the result of your examination of the papers as early as may suit your convenience, directing to [underlined] Greenville Tennessee. [end underline]

As to the marriage bond, I wrote to the clerk of Frederick county Md, some six months ago, but have received no reply. It is quite probable that no such record exists now. The best evidence we can obtain ^of the marriage accompanies the papers, & I hope it will prove satisfactory

I am very respectfully
Your obt. svt. [obedient servant]
B, McDannel


J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 38

Raleigh N C
Decr 16th 1849

I William F. Collins Comptroller of Public Accounts in and for the State of North Carolina do hereby certify that the name of James Pearce [underlined] appears of record in My office as having received at different times specia Certificates for Military Service Amounting to One Hundred and Forty Three pounds one shilling and Eight pence (143.1.8) Given under my hand and Seal this the day and date above written

S/Wm. F. Collins Compt
[seal]
Page 39

Pension Office,
May 11. 1847.

Sir,
The claim of Margaret Pearce has been examined and her papers filed.

The proofs are not Sufficient to show that she was married before the expiration of her husband's Service, and the copy of the family Register is not evidence.

There may be an ancient Register of some one of the children born before 1780, shewing [sic] his or her birth; or the record, of the license may have been preserved in the Clerk's Office.

By referring to his papers it appears that he was allowed for service as Captain, without the production of that record or documentary proof of grade which the rules imperiously require. She will, therefore, be required to establish the rank of Captain,
Page 40

with that grade of proof, and the alleged Service by the certificate of the Comptroller of N. Carolina.

I am, Respectfully
Your obt Svt. [obedient servant]
S/J L Edwards


B. Mc.Daniel, Esq.
Greenville, 
Tennessee.
Page 41

off [illegible] B [illegible]
[FREE stamp]
[round stamp reading 
"FREDERICK
AUG 16
M"]
W Ames, or 
Jn. W. Allison
Jmm [illegible]

To J. L. Edwards Esq
Commissioner 
Washington
D, C
Page 42

Fred.  Augt 16. 1849

To J. L. Edwards Eq
Com.

Sir,
Your of the 15 Just is nod. The Record of Marriages does not go back beyond March 1778 [underlined]

Mary Records were lost during a partial conflagration of the public offices some years ago

Most respectfully
S/W. B. Tyler C
Page 43

[round stamp reading
"FREDERICK
AUG 19
MD."]
[FREE stamp circled]

J L Edwards Esq
Comr [illegible]
Washington 
D. C. 

W.
Amer on
W. N. Allison
Page 44

Frid.  Augt 18. 1849

To J. L. Edwards Esq
Cond

Sir
As requested I have examined the Marriage License Records in my office & do not find the names of James & Margaret Pearce

Most respectfully
W B Tyler Clk
Page 45

Greenville Tennessee
Aug. 4th. 1849

Sir
As it appears from your letter of the 26th ult. that the papers in the case of Saml. F Smith. Capt. Reids co. Donaphans reg. are lost, I have thought it probable that other papers I sent you months ago, may be lost also, from the fact that I have never recv,d. any reply. viz,

April 5th 1849, I mailed to you the Declaration of Bethia Milburn of Greene County Ten: widow of William Millburn Rev. Sol.) under the Joint Resolution of Congress of July 1st. 1848 sworn to, signed. and duly authenticated, and my letter. No reply to this.

May 1st. Mailed to you the Amendatory Declaration of Mrs. Catharine Smith of Sullivan County Tennessee (revolutionary claim for a pension) widow of John Smith a Soldier of Capt. Peter Mantz's Co. Maryland line  Affidavits of John Smith, Henry Baer, George Adam Elush and Rev. Simeon Harkey, muster roll of Capt. Peter mantz, certified by G. G. Brewer, Register Land Office Annapolis Md. and my letter. No reply.

May 1st, 1849= Mailed to you the Certificate of the Clerk of the county court of Frederick county Md. showing that There are no marriage files in his office prior to 1779, also my letter. This is in the case of Margarett Pearce (Rev, claim) deceased, late of Washington County Tennessee, widow of Capt. James Pearce, who was pensioned under act of 7th June 1832. No reply.
Page 46

June 1st, 1849. Mailed to you the Declaration of Fanny Moody (Rev. claim) of Wattauga county formerly Ashe County N. C. widow of Edward Moody, the same who in 1846 or 7 drew the amt. due her husband at his death under the act of 1832. Her husband was not pensioned. No reply in this case.

If these papers are on file, will you be kind enough to examine them and report the result to me. as soon as convenient.

I have the honor to be very respectfully
your obt. svt, [obedient servant]
S/B. Mc.Dannel


Col J. L. Edwards }
Com. of Pensions }
Washington }
Page 47

Pension Office
August 14. 1849.

Sir
The Certificate of the Clerk of the court of Frederick county Md. stating that there is no record in his office previous to 1799 of licenses issued us received & filed in the case of Margaret Pearce, dec'd, widow of James Pearce under act 4. July 1836, Mrs. Pearce having died in 1837 the children cannot avail themselves of the benefits of the act of 1st July 1848 which requires no further proof of service when the husband has been allowed a pension. Such proof of the service as is required in my letter to you of the 11. May 1847 should therefore be produced. The case of Bethiah Milburn, was examined and the result reported to you on the 4th inst.

Mrs Catharine Smith's claim has been allowed for eighteen months, the records shewing that service only. Fanny Moodys claim has been allowed for ten months, which is the highest rate to which she is entitled.--

I am respectfully
Your obd. Servant
J L Edwards


B McDonnel, Esq,
Greenville, 
Tennessee.
Page 48

[round stamp reading
"JONESBOROUGH
MAY 15
Te"]

12 abl [illegible]
[FREE stamp]
May 24/17

James L Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D.

[upside down]
W Wil [willegible]
attachd to Juy '50
24 M [illegible]
Page 49

Pension office Jonesboro
May 16th 1850

JL Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions

Dr Sir:
As it has ever been my pride to, not only do justice, but render genuine Satisfaction to the applicants at my office, I wrote to turn your attention (which I know is overcharged. with business) To my communication made you respecting the presumary condition of the office I need not say that I wish no exess offends in my hands as it is penal to use than but the slightest glance at the returns will show the condition in which I am now. & there must be yet to come in & daily presenting some $1000 new cases. not yet applied for owing I suppose to the [illegible] & consequent nonenter [illegible] therefore the last settlement of my op at the SoDept was made 2d qt 1849. reported bal. $7859.94 deduct the two qt. 1849 & 1st 1850. & you will be enabled to see what funds I have to operate upon since, & more new cases than at any former period. I will sustain the office as long as I can raise means 
(over)
ys respectfully 
S/WH Blair
agent
Page 50

I ask your information as to the understanding respecting the new cases. say for instance the heirs of Capn James. Pearce lately issued & on which there is due $542.97 & the informal claim present. & now in process of correction the order is to pay certain heirs, named in the certificate upon the presentation of the proper voucher. I have regarded your nameing them as plenary hereof & have exempted them here from going into that evidence assuming it as a fact that it had been satisfactorily proved or you would not have issued to them the certificate - if in this I am wrong inform me so that I may have it put right. before the close of this qr. comes round.
S/WH Blair
Page 51

Jonesborough

Margaret Pearce, ded
widow of James
Tennessee
Washington Co, Tens
admitted, Capt. [illegible] $140, ~~ per annum
com: 1 April 1833 when he died and ending 20 February 1837 when she died.
children James Pearce
Sarah Gibson & Rebecca Collins, Payable to Thomas Gibson ^Admin for sole use of children.


Act 4 July 1836

Hon Andrew Johnson
HR
Letter to be returned
Page 52

State of Tennessee } SS
Washington County }
I W H. Smith ["Smith" crossed out], Clerk of the county court in and for said county, do certify, that the foregoing proceedings relative to captain James Pearce and his wife Margaret, in order to obtain a pension, are the original proceedings had and approved of by said court at its April term 1847.

That Robt S Ferguson Esq. whose name appears to the foregoing court certificate is now, and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for said county, and chairman of said court, duly elected and qualified according to law; and that the signature purporting to be his is in his own proper handwriting and is genuine, to which certificate full faith and credit should be given as the official act of said court.

I further certify that letters of Administration have been granted by said court, to the said Thomas Gibson, on the estate of the aforesaid Margaret Pearce, and that he is now the lawful Administrator of said estate.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and affix my seal of office at office Jonesboro, in the county and state aforesaid this fifth day of April one thousand eight hundred and forty seven.
S/W. H. Smith clerk
[seal]
Page 53

6925
Margaret Pearce
Ten:
Act. 4 July 36~




Act 1836~~
Page 54

Washington County Tennessee
April 5th 1847

Mr. James L Edwards {
Commissioner of Pensions {

Sir
You will please recognize B. McDannel of Greenville Tennessee as my agent in the matter of the pension claimed within: and in case the allowance shall be made you will also oblige by sending the Certificate to him

Attest
S/Pleasant. Gibson

Respectfully.
S/Thomas Gibson
[seal]
Page 55

Greenville Tennessee
Dec. 27th 1849

Sir
Your letter to me of the 14th Aug. 1849 relative to the claim of Margaret Pearce, widow of Capt. James Pearce, for a pension under the act of 4th July 1836, was received, in which, I am referred to the requisitions contained in yours of the 11th May 1847 relative to the proof of service and rank of Captain James Pearce in the war of the revolution.

In Compliance therefor, I have procured the Certificate of the Comptroller of North Carolina, shewing that James Pearce received at different times, specie Certificates, for military service, amounting to [pound symbol]143.1.8. which when reduced by North Carolina currency, 8 shillings, to the dollar, or $2,50 cents to the [pound symbol], amounts to the sum of $357.76 cents, which is the pay of a Captain for about 7 months service, according to my calculations.

I am informed by Maj. Collins, the Comptroller. that the records of his Office afford no evidence of the rank of Capt. held by James Pearce. This deficiency however, I think, is supplied by the affidavit of John Waddill, which is herewith enclosed with the Certificate of the Comptroller. For other proof of service and rank I respectfully refer you to papers on file, with his (Pearce's) Declaration.
Page 56

If an allowance should be made for the heirs of Margaret Pearce, you will please make the Certificate payable to Thomas Gibson, Administrator, at the Jonesboro, Tennessee agency. This request is made for the sake of convenience. Mr Gibson resides some 10 or 12 miles from Jonesboro, and it would be attended with much less trouble, for hi, as one of the heirs, and administrator, to receive the whole amount and distribute it, than for the heirs, scattered as they are, to draw their respective shares singly by Powers of Attorney or in person.

I have the honor to be
Very respectfully
Your obt. svt. [obedient servant]
S/B. Mc.Dannel



Col. James L Edwards }
Commissioner of Pensions }
Washington City }
Page 57

11895 Oct 5. Seune
[round stamp reading:
"JONESBOROUGH
SEPT 28"]
Pension claim
[FREE stamp]

The Hon Lewis Cass Secretary
of War.  For James L Edwards
of the Pension office.
Washington City
DC
Page 58

cc
Jonesborough Tenn
Sept 27th 1832

Dr Sir:
Enclosed you will receive the pension claim of Capn Pearce I have forwarded secondary claims to you of which I have had no account but perceive they have reached you, & the delay has been occasioned by the great influx of such claims from other quarters. I wish very much to know whether it is expected that those claims will be paid as the former pensioners were, semiannually & at the agencies now established, & under the form & regulations now in use for such offices. On receipt of this give me a line & let me know whether you will have it in you power to examine the claims which I forwarded you before I set out for Congress the 20th Novr.

Yours in tact & esteem
S/Jn Blair
Page 59

IV          6925

Margaret Pearce, Ten:
___________________
Let to B. Mc.Daniel, May 11. 47.

let to same Sept-14. 49

Let - W B Tyler Aug 15/49
    to same  17 Aug 49


____
Act 4 July 1836.
Page 60

State of North Carolina }
Buncombe County } SS
Be it known that on the twelfth day of December One thousand eight hundred and forty nine before me John A Fagg A Justice of the peace in and for said county, personally appeared John Waddill, a resident of the county aforesaid, aged Eighty five years past, who being duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following affidavit relative to Capt. James Pearce deceased, late of Tennessee viz:

That he was well acquainted with the said Capt James Pearce during the war of the revolution, and that he was known and recognized as a Captain of Militia during that war. Affiant states that he knew the said Capt. James Pearce in Washington County of North Carolina, west of the Blue Ridge, in the year One thousand seven hundred and eighty, and at that time the affiant resided within five or six miles from the residence of said Pearce. that about the first of September in said year, the militia of the neighborhood of Pearce as well as of other neighborhoods were ordered to rendezvous at Gap Creek, now in Carter County Ten. preparatory to marching against Col. Ferguson force of British and tories
Page 61

then advancing from the South. that said militia were ordered out by Col. John Sevier. and marched under his command to Kings mountain; where they met and defeated Col. Ferguson in October Seventeen hundred and eighty, as he has every reason to believe; and that in compliance with said call. Capt. Pearce joined the expedition as a captain, and was absent from his home when the Battle of Kings mountain was fought. Affiant did not see said Pearce after he left his home but states that it was understood by the neighborhood that he Pearce was with the said expedition, and from information derived from soldiers engaged in that service. he affiant is well satisfied that said Pearce did serve as a Capt. of militia during the expedition to Kings mountain. Affiant further states that he was frequently in company with the said Capt. Pearce after the termination of the war of the revolution, and has often heard him say that he was engaged at Kings mountain and against the Indians as a Captain of militia during the revolution.

S/John Waddill

Sworn to and subscribed this day and date first above written. I further certify that I am personally acquainted with the above named John Waddill, who is a resident of
Page 62

Buncombe county as aforesaid. and that he is of good character and respectability whose testimony is entitled to full faith and credit.

S/J. A. Fagg
J.P.


State of North Carolina } SS
Buncombe County }
I Robert B. Vance Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions in and for said county, do certify, that John A Fagg Esq. who has signed his name to the foregoing proceedings relative to Capt. Pearce, is now and was at the date thereof, an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for said county, duly appointed and qualified according to law. and that the signature purporting to be his, appears in his own proper handwriting and is genuine, to which proceedings full faith and credit should be given as his official act. 
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and seal of office, at office, in Asheville in the state aforesaid, this fifteenth day of December - one thousand eight hundred and forty nine.

S/R. B. Vance clk
[seal]
Page 63

Greenville Tennessee
April. 30 1849

Sir
Capt. James Pearce, late of Washington County Tennessee, was placed on the Pension roll under the act of 7th June 1832, on the 20th Feb, 1833, at the rate of $140.45/00 per annum.

He died before receiving the amount due, viz: On the 1st day of April 1833, in the county of Sevier Ten. 

His widow Margaret Pearce drew the amount due at his death at the Jonesboro Tennessee agency. amounting to about $300,00.

She died in Washington County Tennessee on the 20th Feb. 1837 without having made application for a pension.

In April or May 1847, a Declaration was made. in the said Washington county under the act of 4th July 1836, by Thomas Gibson, son in law of Mr. and Mrs. Pearce, and Administrator of the estate of the widow who died at his house, claiming the amt. due from the death of the husband to the death of the widow viz: from April 1st 1833 to Feb. 20. 1837.

It was alleged that the marriage took place in Frederick county Md: before the termination of the husband's last service. [strikethrough] the war of the Revolution. (His service terminated in 1781.) In proof of which, a copy of the original family
Page 64

register, showing the ages and names of their children, was submitted with the Declaration. 

Said copy was taken from the original family register in 1818 by James Pearce jun. who gave his affidavit. showing it to be a true copy, and that the original was lost or destroyed after the death of his father

Said copy shows that the first child was born March 10, 1772 and one or two other children prior to 1779. which corresponds with the evidence of John Waddil whose affidavit also is on file and is dated 17 Aug, 1846.

Mr. Waddill states that Pearce and his wife were living together as man and wife, when he first knew them, on Limestone creek, Washington county N.C. now Tennessee, at his (Pearce's) mill place in 1779 and 1781, at which time they had two or three children ~ Mr. Waddill cannot be mistaken in the dates. from the fact that he is a very intelligent old man, and a good scholar, and fixes these dates, from the dates of his entering the service against the Indians, which I believe he mentions in his affidavit. He also states that Pearce sold said mill place to Gen. John Sevier, shortly after the above mentioned dates, which corresponds with the evidence of James Sevier as given by Doct. Kinney, and shows conclusively, that they all lived in the same settlements, and was well acquainted with Pearce and his wife. Waddil was the son in law on Gen. Sevier. and James Sevier the son of Gen. Sevier, and Doct.
Page 65

Kinney the soninlaw [sic] of James Sevier who was a Rev. pensioner and drew $33.33c. at Jonesboro Ten.

The affidavit of Doct. Kinney is also on file. He had been requested to see his fatherinlaw [sic] James Sevier, and ascertain from him what he knew in relation to Pearce, and his wife living together prior to 1781. He did so, but Mr. Sevier shortly after, and before he was called on to give his affidavit, died suddenly of appoplexy: [sic] but Doct. Kinney made a memorandum in writing at the time the questions were propounded ^and answers given of what Mr. Sevier was willing to be qualified to:. Then Kinney swears to the facts - Sevier resided within a few miles of the mill place, mentioned in the two affidavits, up to the day of his death

Doct. Kinney resides in Jonesboro, and is a gentleman of high standing whose veracity cannot be questioned. James Sevier was equally so. So Mr. Waddill, to take all the evidence in re- to the marriage, into consideration, together with the respectability of all the witnesses, I think Col. Edwards will not hesitate for a moment to admit such evidence, especially when the Certificate of the Clerk of Frederick county court Md. (herewith enclosed) shall be considered, which accounts for the absence of License or marriage bond, and opens the way for the admission of testimony of an inferior grade such as I have mentioned in this letter.
Page 66

As to the service of Capt. Pearce, I presume the benefits of the Joint Resolution of Congress "Approved July 1 1848," "relative to evidence in application for pensions" will be extended to the heirs in this case, and that a Certificate will, as I trust, be immediately issued and made payable to Thomas Gibson. Administrator, at the Jonesboro Tennessee agency

Please address me "Greenville Ten."

I have the honor to be
very respectfully
your obt. svt. [obedient servant]
S/B. Mc.Dannel


Col. James L. Edwards }
Commissioner of Pensions }
Washington City }
DC }
Page 67

State of Tennessee }
Washington County } SS
Be it known that on the Twenty seventh day of February, one thousand eight hundred and forty seven before me Wilton Atkinson a Justice of the peace in and for said county, personally appeared Daniel Kinney, a resident of the county and state aforesaid, aged Fifty years past, who after being first duly sworn, according to law doth on his oath make the following statement relative to the statement of James Sevier deceased, in relation to Capt. James Pearce deceased viz:-

[strikethrough] I am a resident of Washington county Tennessee, and reside about Eight miles from where James Sevier resided, I was personally and intimately acquainted with Mr. Sevier, saw him and conversed frequently with him, He was a man of good character and respectability, whose veracity was unquestionable, and whose statement could be relied on with the utmost confidence= He was the son of Governor John Sevier, was for many years Clerk of the County Court of Washington county Tennessee, and discharged his duties faithfully, had a liberal education, was of good moral character, and endowed with more than ordinary talents, Up to the day of his death, he was possessed of health and good sound mind. He died suddenly, of appoplexy, [sic] at his residence in Washington county, on the 21st day of January 1847= Before Mr. Seviers death I was requested
Page 68

by B. Mc.Dannel of Greene County, to see Mr. Sevier and question him (Sevier) with a view of taking his affidavit, as to the time he knew Captain James Pearce and his Wife to live together as husband and wife. On the 30th of December 1846, Mr. Sevier came to my house in Jonesboro, and after stating the case to him, he made the following statement viz:

That he (Sevier) was acquainted with James Pearce and his wife in the year 1778 or 1779. while they resided [strikethrough] Limestone creek in Washington county of North Carolina. now of Tennessee, at which time they were living together as husband and wife, and were known and recognized as such. that he always understood and believed they were married in the State of Virginia previous to 1779= and that about 1780 or 81. he sold his plantation, with a Mill upon it. lying upon Limestone, where Pearce resided, to John Sevier, (the father of James) that he thought Pearce's services in the revolution commenced about 1779, but how long he was in the service, he did not know. -----
I will add, that James Sevier was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States and drew his Pension at the agency in Jonesboro. Tennessee. and that he possessed a good memory.

S/Daniel Kinney

Sworn and subscribed before the undersigned Justice of the Peace for Washington county, the day and year first written. I further certify that Doctor Daniel
Page 69

Kinney above named, is a respectable and intelligent witness of good character and respectability whose testimony is entitled the full faith and credit in any court or office in the United states, and that he is a resident of Washington county as before stated.

Given under my hand in the county aforesaid this 27th day of February 1847

S/Wilton Atkinson
Justice of the Peace


State of Tennessee }        County Court }
Washington County } ss.   March Term }
                                     Monday 1st. 1847 }
In the matter. of character and respectability, of the foregoing named James Sevier and Doct. Daniel Kinney, the court do certify they are both known to the court: and that the said James Sevier, was a resident of said county and died on the 21st day of January 1847 as stated in the foregoing Affidavit. that he was a Revolutionary Pensioner, was of good character, intelligent and respectable, whose veracity was unquestionable. that he was for many years the Clerk of our county court. and served with ability - That Doct Daniel Kinney is also an intelligent and respectable witness of whose testimony is entitled to full faith and credit in any court of office in the United States

Done in open Court the day and year first.
Page 70

mentioned at the court House in Jonesboro, Tennessee.
                        { S/Saml Green
Quorum Court { S/Wm. McRoberts
                        { S/RS Ferguson

[strikethrough]  [6925 in left margin]

State of Tennessee } SS
Washington County }
I Wm. H Smith Clerk of the County court of said County, do certify that Wilton Atkinson Esq. whose name appears to the within affidavit is now and was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the peace in and for said county duly elected & qualified according to law & that the signature purporting to be his is in his own proper handwriting & is genuine - I also certify that the foregoing court certificate was signed & approved of by Saml. Green. Wm. McRoberts & R.S. Ferguson Esq's they being the Quorum Court, at their March term 1847. & that the signatures above appear in their own proper handwriting and are genuine.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand & affix my seal of office at office in Jonesboro, in the county and state aforesaid this 30th day of March 1847.

S/W H Smith
clerk
Page 71

Revy WIDOW, &c.
____________
File No. 5529
Margaret Pearce Wid.
James Pearce
Capt. N. C. line
_________________
Act: July 4th/36
Index:-  Vol. M,   Page 120

[intentional bracket as printed]
[Arrangement of 1870.]


1929- May 15 Hist. to Hon. Ed. M. Triere for M. P Smith [illegible]

1930- Oct. 15- Hist to Mrs. M. C. Pearce [illegible]

1937- Mch 18- "   "  Paul Smik [illegible]

1938- Sept- 20- "  "   Mrs. E.F. Chaffin [illegible]

1939- Apr-22-"     "   Sam K. Leming [illegible]
Page 72

1929- May 15 Hist. to Hon. Ed. M. Triere for M. P Smith any.

1930- Oct. 15- Hist to Mrs. M. C. Pearce any.

1937- Mch 18- " " Paul Frick any

1938- Sept- 20- " " Mrs. E.F. Chaffin any

1939- Apr-22-" " Sam K. Leming any
Page 73

619 North 76th,
East St. Louis, Illinois
April 12, 1929.

[round stamp reading as follows:
"PENSION
O
U.S.
APR 17 1929
OFFICE"]

Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Sir:
Since it is possible that one or the other of the two Revolutionary Soldiers cited below was an ancestor of mine, I am respectfully asking you for any information you may have concerning pensions granted to them or their wives or children. My ancestor's wife appears to have been Jemima Pearce, and among his sons were James, John, and Jesse. At any rate my ancestor, James Pearce, was in N. Carolina at the time of the Revolution.

1. According to Heitman's Historical Register of Officers of the Continental Army [underlined] [intentional brackets as written] [unofficial, of course] there was a: "Pearce, James (N.C.). Captain North Carolina Militia in 1780. (Died 1 April, 1833).". According to the "State Records of North Carolina", Vol. 22, p. 142, Capt. James Pearce was from Swift Creek, Craven Co., N.C.

2. According to the War Dept. records, one
Page 74

"James Pierce (surname also borne as Pearce) rank not stated, Captain Benjamin Coleman's Company, same battalion. His name appears on a roll of that organization dated White Plains September 9, 1778, which shows that he enlisted August 24, 1777, for three years. His name also appears on a return of the soldiers of the 2nd North Carolina Battalion, reinlisted [sic] during the War Agreeable to resolve of Congress and General Orders. This return is dated Paramus, March 12, 1779, and shows expiration of former enlistment, August 24, 1780, bounty paid $100.00"

Yours very truly,
M. P. Smith
[round stamp reading as follows: 
"PENSION 
O 
APR 17 1929
U.S.
OFFICE"]

P.S. If not inconvenient, please look over the records, if you have any, of the following (since the difference in spelling could easily be due to a clerical error of the time):
[check mark] 1. James Perce, Capt. Robt. Fenner's Company, 2nd Nort Carolina Batallion, [sic] commanded by Colonel John Patton. Name appears on roll, White Plains, Sept. 9, 1778. Enlisted Aug. 24, 1777 for 3 yr. Was sick at Valley Forge. [intentional bracket as written] [I am inclined to believe that he and "James Pearce" in Heitman are the same.

[check mark] 2. James Pierce, private, Coleman's company, 10th N.C. Reg. Name appears on an undated abstract. Enlisted Aug. 24, 1777, for 3 yr and for the war. Served until end of war.
Page 75

ED. M. IRWIN
22D DISTRICT ILLINOIS

ERWIN C. WAGNER 
SECRETARY

HOME ADDRESS:
BELLEVILLE, ILLINOIS

Congress of the United States
house of Representatives
Washington, D. C.

May 14th 1929

ATTENTION: REVOLUTIONARY WAR SECTION

Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C. 

[oval stamp reading as follows:
"REVOLUTIONARY & 1812 WARS
SECTION
MAY 15 1929
BUREAU OF PENSIONS"]

My dear Sir:
Please furnish me with a statement of the information desired by the writer of the enclosed letter.

Over the telephone I was informed that the information was available in the Revolutionary War Section of your office, where a record of Captain Pearce's military record was found.

With your reply please return the letter of inquiry.

Thanking you for your cooperation, I am,

Sincerely yours,
S/Ed M Devin

Incl
Page 76

PAUL FINK
JONESBORO, TENN.

February 17th, 1937.

[round stamp reading as follows:
"[arrow pointing to 3:15] RECEIVED
FEB 19 1937
MAIL SUB-DIV.
VETS ADM 10"]
[handwritten note to the right "Recd one"]

Commissioner of Pensions,
Pension Bureau, 
Washington, D. C.

Dear sir:-
I will greatly appreciate it if you will have mailed to me a copy of the pension record of two Revolutionary soldiers who drew pensions in this, Washington County, Tennessee;

Andrew Liburn (or Lilburn), servied [sic] in Virginia and in 1832 was listed as aged 73 years and drawing pension in this County.

[handwritten note: check mark "2 of NC AWF"] James Peirce, Captain, served in North Carolina troops, drew pension in this county and died here April 1st, 1833, aged 86.

Information in both cases is from the pension list of 1832.

Thanking you for your courtesy, I am,

Very truly,
S/Paul M Fink
Paul M. Fink,
Jonesboro, Tennessee.
Page 77

Lone Holly Plantation,
Proctor, Ark. Sept. 28-30.

Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.

REV.War-

Gentlemen;-
Will you kindly give me the Revolutionary War record of James Pearce, Capt.N.C.Malitia-I780. He died 1833, I am not sure of place of death.

Also, that of J.GORE, who served in Capt.Steele's Co., South Carolina.

This is wanted for genealogical purpose.

Very Sincerely,
S/Mrs. M. C. Pearce
Mrs.M.C.Pearce.

[round stamp reading as follows:
"PENSION
OCT 1 1930
U.S.
OFFICE"]
Page 78

TOCCOA CHAPTER D.A.R.
TOCCOA, GEORGIA
Aug. 12, 1938

[round stamp reading as follows: (arrow pointing to 12:00
"RECEIVED
AUG 13 1938
[ILLEGIBLE] 26"]

Veterans' Administration
Washington, D.C.

Dear Sirs:
Will you please send me the following Revolutionary Service Records for some of my prospective D.A.R. members? 
(1) James Pearce, [underlined] born Maryland, lived in Washington County, Tennessee during Revolutionary War.

(2) William Cawthon, [underlined] born Virginia, lived in Tennessee and later Franklin County, Georgia. Was a rifleman.

(3) Laughlin Fannin [underlined] - his place of enlistment not known but post war records indicate that his residence was taken in Elbert County, Georgia.

[handwritten note "only one man N.C.]
(4) Moses Walters, of North Carolina, was born in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, and subsequently was the recipient of bounty land in Franklin County, Georgia.

The above information will be greatly appreciated, and particularly so, if sent promptly. Thank you very much.

Sincerely
S/Mrs. E. F. Chaffin
Regent Toccoa Chapter
Page 79

[round stamp reading as follows: (arrow pointing to 12:45)
"RECEIVED
APR 17 1939
[illegible] 15"]

Waldron,Ark.,April 14, 1939

Veterans Administration,
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen:
Will you kindly furnish me the military service and family data concerning the following Revolutionary Soldiers.
1. Colonel Daniel Leamon, Leamon Rifle Works, Lancaster, Pa.

2. Captain James Pierce of Sevier County, Tenn.

Remarks: Stillwell's Historical and Genealogical History of New Jersey shows numerous Leaming, Leming, Liming, Lemon, Leamon as being the same.. Colonel Daniel Leamon was offered a contract by the Continental Army to make rifles. I think this is the same Daniel Leming whose letter I have dated 1747. The Leming family strung out down Shenandoah and Rockingham Counties, Va., as Lemon, Leamon, etc., some of which I have identified. Also Leman and Laymon

Captain James Pierce was in Sevier County 1778-9 and took part in the Revolutionary War, as shown by copy of affidavit I have by his comrade dated 1845, but family is not mentioned.

My grandmother was Mary Ann Pierce of Sevier County. She had a sister. I would like to know more of her family.

Pierce and Pearce are said to be the same.

Very respectfully,
S/Sam K Leming
Sam K. Leming
Attorney at Law


[handwritten note in bottom margin: "No Daniel La
Lea
Lem
all p.
Lem   eAc"]
Page 80

September 20, 1938

BA-J/AWF
James Pearce
W. 5529

Mrs. E. F. Chaffin
Toccoa
Georgia

Dear Madam:
The record of James Pearce which is furnished herein was obtained from papers on file in pension claim, W. [strikethrough; handwritten in left margin 5529], based on his military service in the Revolutionary War.

James Pearce was born March 24, 1748, place not shown, nor were the names of his parents given.

While a resident of Washington County, North Carolina (later Greene County, Tennessee) , which bordered on the Cherokee Nation, James Pearce, by order of Colonel John Sevier, raised a company of volunteers in the summer of 1779 and marched with his company to the French Broad River to prevent the Indians from crossing and was out nineteen days. He raised a company of volunteers in the spring of 1780 and marched against the Indians to the Beaver Dam on Lick Creek and was out two weeks. Early in the fall of 1780, he, with his company, volunteered under Colonel Sevier and marched to King's Mountain, was in that battle, length of this service three months. Immediately after his return home, he received orders from Colonel Sevier to guard the frontier against the Cherokee Indians, marched his company over to the French Broad River, had an engagement with the Indians, burned some of their towns, was out three months.

He applied for pension September 12, 1832, at which time he was a resident of Sevier County, Tennessee, "formerly a resident of Washington County,
Page 81

2-

Tennessee". The pension was allowed.

John Pearce died April 1, [strikethrough; 1833 written above] in Sevier County, Tennessee.

James Pearce married sometime in the year 1771, in Frederick County, Maryland, Margaret Dungan. She was born February 4, 1755 , and was the daughter of Jeremiah Dungan, name of her mother not stated; her father and mother were living in 1779 and 1780 in Washington County, Nort Carolina. At the time of the marriage of James Pearce and Margaret Dungan, they were both living in Berkeley County, Virginia.

The widow, Margaret Pearce, died February 20, 1837 in Washington County, Tennessee, at the home of her son-in-law, Thomas Gibson.

The following are the names of the children of James Pearce, and his wife, Margaret, as shown in the claim-

George         born March       10, 1772
Elizabeth          "    June          17, 1774
John                 "    May          15, 1776
Mary                 "    April         20, 1778
Sarah               "    August      30, 1780
Rebecka          "     March         2, 1783
Margret           "     April         19, 1785
Solomon          "    February   14, 1787
James              "     May          14, 1789
Orpah              "    September 20, 1791
Jeremiah         "     December 26, 1793
Thomas          "      March         2, 1796
Charlotte       "       April         10, 1800

The following children survived their mother, and were allowed the pension due her- Sarah, wife of Thomas Gibson of Washington County, Tennessee; Rebecca Collins of Rhea County, Tennessee; and James Pearce of Rhea County, Tennessee.

The Thomas Gibson referred to above was fifty-eight
Page 82

3-

years of age in 1847, he was referred to , also, as the nephew of the widow, Margaret Pearce; he was deceased in 1854.

James Pearce, Jr., referred to his nephew, James Pearce in 1847, but did not give names of his parents.

One Pleasant Gibson was of Washington County, Tennessee, in 1847; it was not stated that he was related to the family.

The papers on file in this claim contain no further discernible data relative to family.

Very truly yours
[signature area blank]
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator
Page 83

March 18, 1937

James Pearce
W. 5529
BA-J/AWF

Mr. Paul Fink
Jonesboro 
Tennessee

Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War records of Andrew Liburn (Lilburn) and James Pearce, both of whom received pensions while living in Washington County, Tennessee.

Because of the great demand for Revolutionary War data and the limited trained clerical force available for furnishing such information, it is not possible to comply in full with each request for Revolutionary War data.

The record of James Pearce is furnished you as found in papers on file in pension claim, W.5529, based upon his service in the War of the Revolution.

James Pearce was born March 24, 1748, place not stated, nor were the names of his parents given.

While a resident of Washington County, North Carolina (later Greene County, Tennessee), which bordered on the Cherokee Nation, James Pearce, by order of Colonel John Sevier, raised a company of volunteers in the summer of 179 and marched with his company to the French Broad River to prevent the Indians from  crossing and was out nineteen days. He again raised a company of volunteers in the spring of 1780 and marched against the Indians to the Beaver Dam on Lick Creek and was out two weeks. Early in the fall of 1780, he with his company, volunteered under Colonel Sevier and marched to King's Mountain, was in
Page 84

3-

that battle, length of service three months. Immediately after his return home, he received orders from Colonel Sevier to guard the frontier against the Cherokee Indians, marched his company over to the French Broad River, had an engagement with the Indians burned some of their towns, and was out three months.

James Pearce applied for pension September 12, 1832, then a resident of Sevier County, Tennessee, "formerly a resident of Washington County, Tennessee". The pension was allowed. He died April 1, 1833 in Sevier County, Tennessee.

James Pearce married sometime in the year 1771 in Frederick County, Maryland, Margaret Dungan. She was born February 4, 1755, daughter of Jeremiah Dungan, name of her mother not stated; her father and mother were living in 1779 and 1780 in Washington County, North Carolina. At the time of the marriage of James Pearce and Margaret Dungan, they were both living in Berkeley County, Virginia.

The widow, Margaret Pearce, died February 20, 1837 in Washington County, Tennessee, at the home of her son-in-law, Thomas Gibson.

The children of James Pearce and his wife, Margaret:

George      born March      10, 1772
Elizabeth      "     June         17, 1774
John             "     May         15, 1776
Mary            "     April         20, 1778
Sarah           "     August     30, 1780
Rebecka      "       March       2, 1783
Margret       "      April         19, 1785
Soloman       "     February   14, 1787
James           "      May          14, 1789
Orpah           "     September 20, 1791
Jeremiah      "      December  26, 1793
Thomas       "      March           2, 1796
Charlote      "      April            10, 1800.

The following children survived their mother and were allowed the pension due her- Sarah, wife of Thomas Gibson of Washington County, Tennessee; Rebecca Collins
Page 85

3-

of Rhea County, Tennessee; and James Pearce of Rhea County.

The Thomas Gibson referred to herein was fifty-eight years of age in 1847, he was, also, referred to as the nephew of the widow, Margaret Pearce; he was deceased in 1854.

James Pearce, Jr., referred to his nephew, James Pearce in 1847, but did not state the names of parents.

One Pleasant Gibson was Washington County, Tennessee in 1847; it was not stated that he was related to the family.

Very truly yours
[signature area blank]
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator
Page 86

Rev. and 1812
Wars Section
AWF: MLB

October 14, 1930

Mrs. M. C. Pearce
Lone Holly Plantation
Proctor, Arkansas

Dear Madam:
You are advised that it appears from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 5529, that James Pearce was born March 24, 1748, place not stated.

While residing in Washington County, North Carolina, which was later Greene County, Tennessee, he served as a captain of the North Carolina militia, as follows:

In the summer of 1779, he raised a company of volunteers by order of Colonel John Sevier and marched with his company to the French Broad River to prevent the Indians from crossing and was out nineteen days. In the spring of 1780, he again raised a volunteer company and marched against the Indians to the Beaver Dam on Lick Creek and was out two weeks. Early in the fall of 1780, he, with his company, volunteered under Colonel Sevier and marched to King's Mountain, was in that battle and was out three months.

Immediately after his return home, he received order from Colonel Sevier to guard the frontier against the Cherokee Indians, marched his company over to the French Broad River, had an engagement with the Indians, burned some of their towns and was out three months.

["He was allowed" crossed out] pension ["allowed" handwritten above] on his application executed September 18, 1832, at which time he was living in Sevier County, Tennessee. He died there April 1, 1833.

The soldier married in 1771, in Frederick County, Maryland, Margaret Dungan, daughter of Jeremiah Dungan. She was born, February 4, 1755; at the date of their marriage, they were both
Page 87

living in Berkeley County, Virginia. [following handwritten in margin: "Her parents (mother's name not shown) were living in 79 in Wash. Co. N. C."]

She died February 20, 1837, in Washington County, Tennessee. [handwritten in margin: "at the homme of her son-in-law Thomas Gibson"]

Their children were:

George    born March     10, 1772
Elizabeth     "    June        17, 1774
John            "    May        15, 1776
Mary            "    April       20, 1778
Sarah           "     August   30, 1780
Rebecka      "     March       2, 1783
Margret      "     April         19, 1785
Solomon    "     February    14, 1787
James        "      May          14, 1789
Orpah       "      September 20,1791
Jeremiah   "      December  26, 1793
Thomas    "      March          2, 1796
Charlote   "      April           10, 1800

The pension due their mother was allowed the following children:- Sarah, wife of Thomas Gibson, of Washington County, Tennessee; Rebecca Collins and James Pearce, the last two of Rhea County, Tennessee

Very truly yours
[signature area blank]
E. W. MORGAN
Acting Commissioner


- 2 -
Page 88

May 15, 1929

Honorable Ed. M. Irwin
House of Representatives
Washington, D.C.

My dear Mr. Irwin:
In response to your letter of May 14, 1929, enclosing a letter from M.P. Smith, of East Saint Louis, Illinois, in which he requests the Revolutionary war record of James Pearce, Captain in the North Carolina Militia, I have the honor to advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, w. 5529, it appears that James Pearce was born, March 24, 1748, place not stated.

While residing in Washington County, North Carolina, which was later Greene County, Tennessee, he served as a Captain of the North Carolina Militia as follows:

In the summer of 1779, he raised a company of volunteers by order of Colonel John Sevier and marched with his company to the French Broad River to prevent the Indians for crossing and was out nineteen days. In the spring of 1780, he again raised a volunteer company and marched against the Indians to the Beaver Dam on Lick Creek and
Page 89

was out two weeks. Early in the fall of 1780, he, with his company, volunteered under Colonel Sevier and marched to King's Mountain, was in that battle and was out three months.

Immediately after his return home, he received orders from Colonel Sevier to guard the frontier against the Cherokee Indians, marched his company over to the French Broad River, had an engagement with the Indians, burned some of their towns and was out three months.

He was allowed pension on his appllication executed September 12, 1832, at which tine he was living in Sevier County, Tennessee. He died there, April 1, 1833.

The soldier married, in 1771, in Frederick County, Maryland, Margaret Dungan, daughter of Jeremiah Dungan. She was born, February 4, 17855; at the date of their marriage, they were both living in Berkeley County, Virginia. She died, February 20, 1837, in Washington County, Tennessee.

Their children were:
George      born March    10, 1772.
Elizabeth      "     June       17, 1774.
John             "     May       15, 1776.
Mary            "      April      20, 1778.
Sarah           "     August   30, 1780.



- 2 -
Page 90

Rebecka   born March        2, 1783.
Margaret     "    April         19, 1785.
Solomon     "    February   14, 1787.
James          "     May         14, 1789.
Orpah         "    September 20, 1791.
Jeremiah    "    December  26, 1793.
Thomas      "    March          2, 1796.
Charlote     "    April           10, 1800.

The pension due their mother was allowed the following children: Sarah, wife of Thomas Gibson, of Washington County, Tennessee; Rebecca Collins and James Pearce, the last two of Rhea County, Tennessee.

Herewith is returned the letter from Mr. M.P.Smith.

Very truly yours
[signature area blank]
E. W. MORGAN 
Acting Commissioner.



- 3 -
Page 91

September 17, 1938
XXXXXXXXXXXX

Mrs. E. F. Chaffin                    BA-J/MLB
Toccoa
Georgia

Dear Madam:

Reference is made to your letter of recent date, in which you requested the Revolutionary War records of James Pearce who was born in Maryland, and served from Washington County, Tennessee, in the Revolution; William Cawthon, born in Virginia, served as a rifleman, lived in Tennessee and later Franklin County, Georgia; Laughlin Fannin, of Elbert County, Georgia. and Moses Walters who was born in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, later lived in North Carolina, then Franklin County, Georgia.

The Revolutionary War records of this office have been searched and no claim for pension or bounty land found based upon service in that war of a Moses Walter or Walters, and none for a soldier of similar spelling of the surname, as described, or for any William Cawthon or Laughlin Fannin, under any spelling. Such claims are the source of data furnished by this office in regard to soldiers of the Revolutionary War. Information in regard to the military service of those soldiers might be obtained from the Adjutant General, War Department, this city.

You are furnished herewith the Revolutionary War record of James Pearce.

Very truly yours
[signature area blank]
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator
Page 92

April 21, 1939.

Mr. Sam K. Leming                   BA-J/ILL
Waldron                                   James Pearce
Arkansas.                                 W. 5529

Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War records of Colonel Daniel Leamon of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Captain James Pearce of Sevier County, Tennessee.

A search of the Revolutionary War records of this office has been made and there is no claim for pension or bounty land on file based upon the service of a Daniel Leamon, under any spelling of that surname, Lemon or Leming. The record has been found of one James Pearce who served as a officer and resided in Sevier County, Tennessee. His record is furnished you herewith, pension claim-W. 5529.

Very truly yours,
[signature area blank]
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator.