Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 7,305, for John Portman, Pennsylvania
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Service Penn.
Portman, John
Foster, Catharine (Former Widow)
Number W. 7305
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15.459 Pennsylvania           
John Portman of ---  in the state of Pennsylvania who was a private in the regiment commanded by Colonel McKay & Brodhead of the Pennsylvania line for the term of Six years or War.       
Inscribed on the roll of Pennsylvania at the rate of 8 Dollars per month, to commence on the 26 of April 1819               
Certificate of Pension issued the 30 of Sept 1819 and Sent to Sam’l Roberts Pittsburg Pennsylvania               
Arrears to 4th of Sept 1819    34.40             
Semi-anl. all'ce ending 4 March 1820 48                 
4 9/30 mos           $82.40             
{Revolutionary claim, Act 18th March, 1818.} 
20 / 69 [unreadable]  
Captd
R Tule   Mch 20   
Let to Honble Beatty feb 3. 1841.    
Notification sent May 25th 1821 to Sam’l A. Roberts, Esqr
Pittsburgh, Va
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4714
Case of Jno. Portman [John Portman]
Saml. Roberts [Samuel Roberts]
Judge
Pittsb. Pa. [Pittsburgh Pennsylvania]
Recd Sept. 1. 1819.
Penns line 
Col. Broadhead
1776 - 6 yrs. or war
Adm 


War Office
Washington City
Page 4

Pennsylvania
Allegheny County SS

Be it known that on the twenty sixth day of april eighteen hundred & nineteen personally appeared before me Samuel Roberts President of the Courts of Common Pleas in and for the fifth Judicial District of Pennsylvania John Portman who on his Solemn oath doth depose and say That in the month of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Seventy Six he inlisted in Captain Moses Carsons Company of Infantry in the eighth Pennsylvania Regiment on continental establishment commanded by Col Eneas McKay [Aeneas Mackay] afterwards by Col Daniel Brodhead That he served faithfully from the time of his enlistment untill the Battle of Brandywine when he was taken prisoner and continued a prisoner till the conclusion of the Revolutionary war. That he enlisted for five years or during the war but on account of his captivity he never obtained a discharge. That he is now Sixty nine years of age residing in the County of Warren State of Pennsylvania. This Deponent further Saith that he hath no property not personal or mixed that he is unable to labor and for the last two years has been principally Supported by the Kindness of his friends. From his reduced circumstances he is in absolute need of the assistance of his country for Support. 
John Portman 
Sworn and Subscribed before me this 26 April 1819
Sam Roberts
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Before me also appeared on the same day and year, John Finley who being duly sworn saith he the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy Six he was a teamster out in Captain Moses Carsons Company of infantry in the eighth Pennsylvania Regiment and was personally acquainted with John Portman the foregoing deponent who was enlisted in the company aforesaid and served faithfully from the month of July - AD 1776 till the battle of Brandywine After the battle the said John Portman was reported missing and this deponent and not know whether he was killed or taken prisoner. This deponent further saith that the said John Portion is now [unreadable] & this deponent well recollects him and knows him to be the [unreadable] who served as aforesaid  Portman was bugleman for the Company being every aspect of the manual [unreadable] - & further saith not              
Jno Finley
Sworn & Subscribed me this 26 April 1819         
Sam’l  Roberts     
Aso appeared before me on the same day and year John Reese and Caleb Thompson who being [illegible] Sworn us on their Solemn oath [illegible] say that they have been for many years  personally acquainted with the said John Portman and now reside over him in Warren County Pennsylvania That they are well satisfied he has no property real personal or mixed know him to be [illegible] poor that for more than three years both he and had a fixed place of residence list has lived with such of his neighbors as would Support him and is not in their opinion able to win his living by his labor. And the said deponent as further say that from the reduced circumstance
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of the said John Portman he is absolutely in need of the assistance of his country for support. 
John Reese
Caleb Thompson
Sworn and Subscribed before me this 26 April 1819       
Sam’l Roberts                 
Pennsylvania Ss:          
I Samuel Roberts President of the courts of Common pleas of the Fifth Judicial District in the  Commonwealth aforesaid do certify That it appears to my satisfaction that the above applicant John Portman did serve in the revolutionary war against the common enemy for the term stated in the preceding declaration and further certify that it appears to my satisfaction from the proofs that that have been exhibited before me  that John Portman the above named applicant is in reduced circumstances and stands in need of the assistance of his country for his support & I now transmit the proceedings & testimony taken & had before me to the Secretary at War pursuant to the diections of the before mentioned act of Congress  
In testimony whereof I have hereinto my set my hand & seal at the City of Pittsburg this twenty first day of August AD 1819.     
Sam Roberts
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In the Matter of John
Portman an Applicant for a Pension.
John Portman
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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Warren County ss On this fifth day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty one personally appeared in open Court being a Court of Record for the County of Warren because the proceedings are according to the course of the Common law with a Jurisdiction unlimited in point of amount keeping a Record of their proceedings and unlimited power in point of imprisonment      John Portman aged Seventy one years resident in Warren County in said Commonwealth who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the provissions made by the acts of Congress of the eighteenth March 1818 and the first May 1820 that he the said John Portman enlisted during the war in August in the year one thousand seven hundred and Seventy six in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in the Company commanded by Captain Moses Carson & in the eighth Regiment of the Pennsylvania line on the Continental establishment commanded by Col Enos McCay upon the death of Col McCay Col Broadhead succeeded to the command of the Regiment & that he continued under the command of Capt Carson untill the said Carson Revolted when the company was commanded by Capt John Finly with whom he served to the close of the war he was not discharged as he was taken prisoner at the Battle of Brandywine and confined on James Island from which he escaped the evening before the British evacuated Charlestown and before he arrived at his Regiment it was disbanded. That he was in the Battle of Brandywine and Boundbrook & various skirmishes and that he has no other now in his power of his said services except this his own declaration that Major John Finly whose certificate he obtained on his last application has since removed to the State of Kentucky. He also states that in the twenty sixth day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and nineteen he applied for Relief under the act of the eighteenth of March one thousand eight hundred and eighteen and that he has received a pension certificate the number of which is 15.459 And I do solemnly swear that I was a resident Citizen of the United States on the eighteenth day of March 1818 and that I have not since that time by gift sale or in any manner
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disposed of my property or any part thereof with intent thereby so to diminish it as
to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress entitled "an act to provide for certain herein engaged in the Land and naval service of the United States in
the Revolutionary War passed on the eighteenth day of March 1818 and that I have
not nor has any person in trust for me any property or securities contracts or Debts
due to me nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule
hereto annexed and by me subscribed. This declarant also states that he is by occupation a weaver but that owing to old age weakness and failure of sight he has been unable to labour much for several years and that he is in a great measure dependant upon the liberality of his friends and acquaintance for substance that he has not kept house for several years but resides principally with a Mr Hugh Marsh who is not a relation nor under the least obligation to contribute towards his support and he does also further state that in the spring or Summer of 1820 he appeared in the Court of Common pleas of Allegany County where the proceedings pointed out and prescribed by the act of first May 1820 were had and forward did as he believes to the war office by the late Judge Roberts of that County that he has received no answer which he is informed is owing to his having applied
out of his own County
Sworn to and declared this 5th day of June 1821 in open Court
before
Jesse Moore 
John Portman 

A Schedule of all the estate Real and personal of John Portman of the County
of Warren
In the month of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirteen I disposed of all my property real and personal to one James Portman for which I received three Judgement bonds for one hundred dollars each one of which was payable in the Spring of one thousand eight hundred and fifteen another in one year thereafter and the other in the years thereafter these judgement Bonds, I caused to be entered up
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in the Court of Common pleas of Venango County to which the County of Warren was then attached in March 1814 one has been raised principally and the others are there and
the Judgements were recived by Scinfacias in August 1820 and executions Issued on which not enough has been collected to pay the costs and their very little expectation that any thing more can be collected the said James Portman being insolvent-- At the time hold my property to the said James Putman there was a Judgement against me in favour of the Holland Company which the said James Portman agreed to pay and satisfy, but it having been neglected by him the real estate which he had of me has been sold at Sheriff Sale there for but for a sum insufficient to satisfy the judgement as I am informed
my claims against the said James Putman are all the property which have in law or equity except a few articles of bedding and my wearing apparel
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court
June fifth 1821 before
John Portman 
Jesse Moore 

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ⎬
Warren County
On the fifth day of June A.D. 1821 personally
appeared in open Court of Common pleas for the County of Warren Asa Winter and
Edward Jones who being duly sworn depose and say that the have known John ┃
Putman for several years that the time the foregoing Schedule of his property to
be a correct statement thereof that James Portman named in said Schedule is reputed insolvent and that the consider that the said John Portman claims against him are of no value
Sworn and subscribed in open Court
June 5th 1821
Asa Winter 
John Brown Prothy 
Edward Jones 
Warren County 
I John Brown Prothonotary of the Court of Common pleas in and for the County of Warren in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania do hereby certify
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that the foregoing oath and the Schedule thereto annexed are truly copied from
records of said Court and that the said Jesse Moore before whom the said Oath appears to have been taken is President Judge of the said Court and I do further certify that it is the opinion of the said Court that the property exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule is of no value and that Asa Winter and Edward Jones
made the annexed affidavit are credible witnesses
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court on this 12th day of June A.D. 1821
John Brown Prothonotary 
of the Court of Com pleas for the County of Warren

In the Matter of John Portman applicant for a Pension
John Portman
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New Certificate to Children issued 29th Sept 1853 & sent to A Joy, Ovid NY          
Let to Hon C. B. Curtis 9 Dec 1853
Let to Same  13 Dec 53
L3 Lets to  P Ugt  13 Dec 53
Let to A. Joy Jany 5 1854
Let to Hon C B. Curtis 9 Feb 1854
Let to same 3 May 1854
Let to same 12 June 1854
6,140 Pennsylvania Pitts           
Catharine Foster dec’d, widow of John Portman who served in the Revolutionary Penn as a Private 
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 96 Dollars per annum, to commence on July, 1848, ending 7 February 1851             
Certificate of Pension issued the 29 day of Sept 1853 and sent to A. Jay Ovid NY          
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act Page 222 February 1848
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Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of the 7th July 1838 and 25 of August 1842

State of Pennsylvania
Warren County
On this 23d day of September 1850 personally
appeared before the subscribed a Judge of the Courts of said County and State Catharine Foster a resident of Pine Ann Township Warren County and State of Pennsylvania aged Eighty two years, who after being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath
make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7th 1838 and the 23 of August 1842 granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the
Revolutionary war
That she is the widow of Thomas Foster,
and that she was the widow of John Portman, late a pensioner of the United States
She also declares that she was married to said John Portman her first husband in May 1784, that her husband the aforesaid John Portman died on the 12th day of November 1833. that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January 1794 to wit at the time above Stated, May 1784,
She further declares that after the death of the
husband aforesaid, she was married to Thomas Foster in 1839 that he died on the 30th day of April 1846. and that she is still a widow

Subscribed & sworn the day & date above mentioned
Catharine Foster her mark X
G. Merrill  Judge
I certify that the above named Catharine Foster is a reputable person, that she cannot attend Court, to make her declaration in
consequence of bodily infirmities
G Merrill Judge
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State of Pennsylvania
Warren County }Ss
Thomas Martin, whom I certify is a respectable
 person, after being duly sworn according to law depose and says, that he has for more than thirty years been personally
acquainted with the within named Catharine Foster, formerly Catharine
Portman, wife of John Portman, who was a pensioner, this deponent further deposeth and saith that the within named Catharine Foster is the identical person and late widow of John Portman late a pensioner, and that the said
John Portman died on the 12th day of November 1833 leaving his widow the within named, and who was married to Thomas Foster in 1839 and that the said Thomas Foster died on the 30th day of April 1846 leaving his widow the within named Catharine Foster his widow, and that she shall remain a widow.
Sworn and subscribed before me
this 23d day of September 1850
G Merrill  Judge
Thomas Martin
State of Pennsylvania
Warren County SS
Mary Martin, wife of
Thomas Martin Esquire to me long personally
known and whom I certify to be persons of high respectability, being by me first duly sworn according to Law doth depose and say that she is the daughter of John Portman late of said County & Catherine Portman, now Catherine Foster, that she was present
at the house of Thomas Foster the late husband of Catherine Foster, the day he died which was on the 30th day of April A.D. 1846 in [unreadable] township in the County and State aforesaid.
Sworn & subscribed before me one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in
and for said County the 23d day
of September 1850 G Merrill  Judge
Mary Martin, her mark
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State of Pennsylvania County of Warren In open court of record held in and for said County on this 23 day October 1851. Personally appeared Mary Martin aged 50 years, resident of said County and being duly sworn according to law, makes the following declaration under the act of Congress passed July 1838 & subsequent acts.           
This declarant swears that she is the lawful child of John and Catherine Portman late of Warren County, Pennsylvania; that her said father was a Revolutionary pensioner of the United States at the rate of 96 $ per annum, and that he died in the year Eighteen hundred thirty three (1833) leaving a widow surviving him who was the mother of the declarant and whose maiden name was Catherine Goodlink. This declarant further states that the said John and Catherine Portman were lawfully married (as this declarant believing from what she has heard her said parents say) near Carlisle in Cumberland County, State of Pennsylvania in the year Seventeen hundred and Eighty four. Declarant states that she has no knowledge of the existence of any decree of said marriage whether public or private, that application has been made for record of proof of said marriage in the County and State where it occurred without success. Declarant states that the said John and Catherine lived together as man and wife in lawful wedlock from the time of their said marriage up to the period when the said John died and that they had 5 children born as the fruits of their said
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about ten months after said marriage Rebecca Portman, James Portman, Marg. Portman who was born in the year 1791 and died in her infancy, and John Portman who was born in the year 1793.
This declarant further states that the said Catharine Portman remained the widow of the said John Portman up to the fifth (5th) day of July Eighteen hundred & thirty nine (1839) at which time she was probably married to Thomas Foster in the (illegible) township Warren County Pennsylvania that the same Thomas Foster died in the said County of Warren and state of Pennsylvania on the thirtieth (30th) day of April in the year Eighteen hundred & forty six (1846) declarant states that the said Catharine did not again marry after the death her husband the said Thomas Foster.  That she died being his widow that her death occurred on the Seventh (7th) day of February in the year Eighteen hundred & fifty one (1851) And that she died leaving six children only surviving her whose names are James & John Portman, Sarah Green, Mary Martin, Jane Sloan & Catharine Washburn.  
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written before me)
G. Church
Mary Martin
[The word "August" insert & "February" interlined in lieu of "our" making the year "one" before subscriber signed] Prost Judge
State of Pennsylvania 
County of Warren  Ss
I Silas S Aditt clerk of the county court of said county certify that at a court of Record held in and for said county Satisfactory proof was made in Open Court that John Portman late a Revolutionary pensioner
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of the United States in the County and State aforesaid in the date of 76 (illegible) died in the year Eighteen hundred and thirty three leaving a widow named Catharine Portman who was married to Thomas Foster in said county on the fifth (5th) day of July in the year Eighteen hundred thirty five (1835) that the said Thomas Foster died on the thirtieth (30th) day of April in the year Eighteen hundred & forty six (1846) that the said Catharine did not again marry after the death of the said Thomas Foster but died being his widow that her death occurred in the Seventh (7th) day of February in the year Eighteen hundred and fifty one (1851) and that she left six children only surviving her whose names are James & John Portman, Sarah Green, Mary Martin, Jane Sloan, and Catharine Washburn.

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my official signature and the Seal of said court & county this 25 day of October 1851
Silas S Aditt
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Transcript from the assessment of Conway township for 1814.
James Portman
200 ac Land $400
1 Horse 20
2 Cows  32 
total 442
$2.21
State of Pennsylvania
Warren County
In testimony that the foregoing is a true transcript from the assessment of Conway township for the year 1814. I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Commission of said county this 30th day of Sept AD 1857.
A. H. Ludlow
State of Pennsylvania
County of Warren SS
On this 1st day of October 1837 personally appeared before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for said County James Morrison aged 73 years resident of said county who being first duly sworn according to law doth depose and say that in the year 1799 he settled in said county and that in the year 1801 he became well acquainted with the family of John Portman who was at that time a resident of the aforesaid County and that the said John Portman and to Catharine Portman with whom he was living in lawful wedlock and was always believed to be the lawful wife of said John Portman had at that time two grown daughters whose names were Elizabeth and Rebecca Portman and that in the year eighteen hundred and two (1802) said Elizabeth was lawfully married to David McGintey as he beleives and that the said Elizabeth had children born to her as the first of
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this aforesaid marriage - this declarant further states that in the year eighteen hundred and four or five (1804 or 1805) Rebecca Portman was marred to William Carpenter with whom he was well acquainted and that the said Rebecca had children born to her as the fruits of this aforesaid marriage.
This declarant further states that he was for many years well acquainted with James Portman whose name appears on the foregoing page as having paid a tax in the Township of Conewanter in said county in the year 1814 and that he was the reputed lawful son of John Portman deceased late a pensioner of the United States in said county and that the said James Portman was a young man of at least thirteen years old when he became acquainted with him in the year eighteen hundred and one (1801) and that the said John and Catharine Portman had at that time other children whose names were Sarah, John, and Mary Portman and others whose names he does not now recollect are that the same John Portman died leaving a widow Catharine Portman surviving him who remained his lawful widow until about the year 1839 when she again married as he believes to Thomas Foster deceased in said county and that the said Catharine died being the widow of said Foster and that the said Catharine Foster died leaving six children only surviving her whose names are James and John Portman, Sarah Green, Mary Martin, Jane Sloan, and Catharine Washburn.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written before me
 James Morrison
 John Ditmars J.P.
I also certify that declarant James Morrison is a man of respectability and that his testimony is entitled to full credit and belief.
John Ditmars [seal]
J.P.
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State of Pennsylvania
County of Warren SS
I Silas S Aditt Prothonotary of the County and State aforesaid do certify that John Ditmars Esq is now and was at the time of the date of the foregoing a Justice of the Peace duly commissioned and qualified to act as such in and for said county and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and office seal this 1st day of October AD 1851
S S Aditt Prothonotary
for the claims Dep
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Pennsylvania
Warren County S.S.

I John F McPherson Register for the Probate of wills, and granting letters of administration in and for the county of Warren and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania do hereby certify that this day before me was proved and approved the last will and testament of Catharine Foster late of Pine Grove township in said county deceased and that letters testamentary thereon were granted to Thomas Martin Executor in said will and testament named and further that the said Thomas Martin is qualified in all respects as required by the laws of this Commonwealth to act as such executor.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said office at Warren. this fifth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty one.
John F McPherson
Register
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Among the records and judicial proceedings of the Court of Common Pleas for the County of Warren in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania before the Hon John Moore Esq Resident and Isaac Connelly and Joseph Hackney associate judges of said Court at Warren 27 May Sun 1820 are to be found as follows to wit:
Petition
To the honourable John Moore Esq President and his associate Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Warren-
The petition of the subscribed an inhabitant of said County
Humbly Showeth
That your petitioner John Portman - on the night day of May in the year of Our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty four was intermarried with a certain Catharine Gudbling in Cumberland County in the State of Pennsylvania and that the said Catharine his wife hath been guilty of the crime of adultery and willful and malicious desertion and absence from the habitation of the said John without any reasonable cause for and during the space of two years and more in violation of the previous vows of matrimony made to him the said John yours and therefore prays your Honors to grant a subpoena to be issued directed to the said Catharine commanding her to appear at the next court of common pleas of said county to annex his said petition - 
And your petitioner upon oath states that the facts above stated in his petition are true to the best of his knowledge and belief and that his said complaint is not made out of levity or by collusion between him and his said wife and for the main purpose of being freed and separated - 
over -
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from her the Said Catherine, but in Sincerity and truth for the cause above mentioned         
Sworn and subscribed in open Court the Sixth day of March in the year of Our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and twenty                  “John Portman”
“Docket Entry” No. V 7.  May 3 Term 1820
John Portman vs Catherine Portman}  Sub. Sibill in divires      Sene 16 So Ameous Co- 
State of Pennsylvania       
Warren County} ss                  
I Rufus P. King Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas in and for Said County of Warren Do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true exemplified copy of the petition for [unreadable]  - also the Docket entry in a certain Suit wherein John Portman is Libellant and Catherine Portman Respondent remaining in Said Court of Record - also further certify that no decree was granted in the above Suit - In testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand of Said Court and affixed the Seal of Said County this Second day of February AD 1853    
Rufus P. King Prothy
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{typewritten letter}
February 16, 1934
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

John Portman-W.7305
BA-J/ AWF

Mr. H. G. Moore
1340 Roosevelt Avenue
Lansing, Michigan

Dear Sir:

Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of John Portman of Pennsylvania.
The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, W. 7305, based upon the Revolutionary War service of John Portman.
The date and place of birth of John Portman are not stated, nor are the names of his parents given.
He enlisted in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, in July or August, 1776 and served in Captains Moses Carson's and John Finley's companies, Colonels Mackey's and Daniel Brodhead's Eighth Pennsylvania Regiment; he was in the battles of Boundbrook and Brandywine, in the latter battle was taken prisoner and held on James Island until sometime in 1781, when he made his escape.

He was allowed pension on his application executed, April 26, 1819, at which time he was sixty-nine years of age and living in Warren County, Pennsylvania.
John Portman married May 9, 1784, near Carlisle, Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, Catharine Gudbling or Goodlink. He died November 12, 1833 in Warren County, Pennsylvania.
His widow, Catharine Portman, married July 5, 1839 Thomas Foster, who died April 30, 1846 in Pine Grove Township, Warren County, Pennsylvania. On Sept. 23, 1850, She applied for pension, on account of the services of her former husband, John Portman; she was then aged eighty-two
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years and living in Pine Grove Township. The pension was allowed. The widow, Catherine, died February 7, 1851.
The following are the names of the children of John Portman and his wife, Catharine, as found in the claim: Elizabeth or Betsy born 1785, married in 1802, Daniel McGintey, their children referred to, names not shown; Rebecca married in 1804 or 1805 Carpenter, their children referred to, names not given; James Portman in 1852 in Kalamazoo County, Michigan; Mary Portman born in 1791, died in infancy; John Portman born in 1793; Sarah, Mary, Jane and Catharine.
The following children survived their mother- James Portman, John Portman, Sarah Green, Jane Sloan, Catharine Washburn, and Mary, wife of Thomas Martin, said Mary Martin was aged about fifty-two years in 1851 and living in Pine Grove Township, Pennsylvania.

Very truly yours

A.D. Hiller
Assistant to Administrator
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The case Catharine Foster, war widow of John Portman a pension of Pa, herself an applicant of Pa, papers mailed at Ovid Oct 4, 1850. this is for your guide in making the inquiry after the case.   
Washington Feb 10, 1851            
My Dear Sir I find little hope of getting at my cases, I have had hold of some 15 or 20 cases, I conclude to leave to day at 9 a.m. I beg leave to ask an special favor of you and that is to see to & urge the diligent search for the paper named in the memorandum, I wish you to speak of them, till they are found, & as soon as they are found, or as soon as they are sure they cannot be found, I wish Mr Cole to inform me by letter, the result of the search, hand over the mem’a.       
 Much Oblige        
Most Respectfully       
Arad Joy                 
Mr. W. G.Wade        
Memorandum              
Arad Joy mailed at Ovid on the 4 Oct 50 all the paper (quite a package, a large long letter) of Catharine Foster, formerly widow of John Portman a Pensioner of Pa, and herself an applicant under law of 1838 of Pa; Capt Triplett, nor Mr Paine did not find a note of the case on their books, Mr Cole said their books should show it, if the papers were rec’d, but he said possibly they might be in his room as he was very far back in his examinations; What I want is that Mr Evers allow it, & Mr Cole direct it done, a search for the papers to be made = Mr Anderson may find them, I want a thorough search made & result made known to me, that if they are lost I can procure a new set, I hope they can be found
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1 to your request of ___, received ___ for a statement of military history of John Portman a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (and his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.              W. File 7305.
Dates of Enlistment or Appointment: July or Aug 1776 --> was taken prisoner at battle of Brandywine and remained in captivity until 1781.
Rank: Private
Officers under whom service was Rendered:
Captain: Moses Carson, John Finley
Colonel: Aeneas Mackey, Daniel Brodhead
State: Pa.
Battles engaged in, Boundbrook and Brandywine
Residence of soldier at enlistment: Enlisted in Westmoreland Cos., Pa
Date of application for pension, April 26, 1819 His claim was allowed.
Residence at date of application, Warren Co., Pa.
Age at date of application, 69 years. He died Nov. 12, 1833 at Warren Warren Co. Pa
Remarks: Soldier mar [married] near Carlisle Cumberland Co., Pa in May 1786, Catharine Gudbling. She remarried July 5 1839 Thos. Foster who died Apr 23, 1846.  while a resident of Pine Grove Twp. [township] Warren Co, Pa. aged 80 years in 1850. She died Feb 1, 1851 Children, Elizabeth born in 1785 married in 1802 Daniel Mc[?]; Rebecca married in 1804 or 1805 William Carpenter; James; Mary born in 1791 died in infancy; John born in 1793, Sarah Green; Jane Sloan; Mary aged 52 years in 1851 married Thomas Martin; Catharine Washburn.
Very respectfully,
Page 28

& me confined on James Island until he made his  escape the evening before the British evacuated Charleston.
Page 29

No. 14.217            
Cath’e Foster formerly widow SAJ of John Portman Penn 
Sct 7th July 1838. 
Arad Joy April 1st 1851           
Hon J. Thompson Apl 10th / 51 
Arad Joy July 3rd 1851 
Arad Joy Oct. 23rd, 1851.        
P. Norton, Jany, 29 / 52 
A. Joy, March 16 / 53 
A. Joy 19 May / 53
Page 30

Papers Mailed Oct 4 1851         
Not a word from them        
Ovid Sept 25 '51           
Sir               
Oct 4 I last I mailed the papers of Catherine Foster, who was formerly the widow of John Portman, both of PA then + now, till her death. Once + again + still again I have most respectfully asked you to please furnish me a copy of your letter of the 10th April in this case  
 I avouch that I never rec’d such letter, pray please furnish me with a copy of it, I am in great suspense, as One year has taken place + I am where I was a year since, saving I have none of the papers, nor have I a report upon them, nor do I know what the Department ask more   
 Your Obd Sevt       
Arad Joy         
Hon. J. E. Heath
Page 31

Catherine Foster
former widow of 
John portman
a Pensioner
both of Pa
Filed a power 12 April 1852 
+ I have another 
if need be - Jany 24 '53
from
Arad Joy
Jan 53
Page 32

John R. Snyder    Phone 15
City Dray Line   Auto Truck
"The word moves and so does Snyder"

Alliance Neb.  Jan. 8, '15    1914

Bureau of Pensions,
Washington D.C.

Dear Sirs:

Desiring to join the daughters of the Revolution I am writing for the military record of John Portman of the Rev. War and any other information that would be of benefit to me in tracing my ancestry.  The said John Portman was my great-great grandfather.  His son James in the Mexican War, and his daughter Elizabeth was my own grandmother.

Awaiting an early reply and thanking you in advance for your courtesy.

I am yours respect,
Mrs. Bessie Snyder
Page 33


U. S. PENSION O OFFICE
JAN 12 1915
Page 34

Revy WIDOW, & c.
File No. 7305
Catharine Foster
Widow
Jno. Portman
Pvt; Rev; War
Act: Feby. 29, 1848
Index: - Vol. A, Page 246
[Arrangement of 1870.]
1909, April 21. Hist to
Mrs Nancy C. Morrow.
Letter in claim S.F. 22760.
1915 Jan, 14 Hist. To A.E.P.
Mrs. Bessie Snyder & 
1917 May 31, Wm J. W. Campbell
advised that this is the only John Portman
+ that he died Nov. 12, 1833 AW
Page 35

6140
Pennsylvania Pitts
Catharine Foster
widow of John Portman
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of
Dollars  Cents per annum, to commence on
the 4th day of March, 1848.
Ending 30 June 1848
Certificate of Pension issued the 7th day of Sept. 1853
and sent to 
A Jay
Ovid NY
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act 1848, Page 222, Vol. 2
February 7
Page 36

1853 Sept. 29
New certificate paid this day
terminating 30 June 1868 at $80- pramium payable to children of Cath Foster decd thence forward at 196 to 7 February 1851. ~ Sent to A. Joy 
pen Agt. notified.
Let to A Joy 19 Sept 1853
Page 37

9.417
Pennsylvania Pitts
Catharine Foster
widow of John Portman
who was a private in the Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of
[9C crossed out] Dollars
Cents per annum, to commence on
the 4th day of March, 1843.
Ending 30 June 1848
Certificate of Pension issued the 7[th] day of Sept. 1853
and sent to
A Joy
Ovid NY
[Acts of March 3, 1843, & June 17, 1844.}
Recorded in Book CA Vol. 2 Page 107
1853 - Should have been to Catharine Foster died + payable to Children at $80 per ann.
New certificate issued this Sept. 29, 1853
pen agt notified
Page 38

11539
Pennsylvania Pitt.
Catharine Foster
widow of Jno Portman
who died on the - 1833
of ____ in the State of
who was a priv. in the ___ commanded
by Captain ____ of the ____ commanded
by ____ in the ____
line for Revolution

Inscribed on the roll of Pittsburg
at the rate of      Dollars -- Cents
per annum, to commence on the 4th day of
March, 1836.

Certificate of Pension issued the 7 day of 
Sept. 1853 and sent to
Arrears to the 4th of
Semi-annual allowance ending

{Revolutionary Claim,
Act July 7, 1838.}

Recorded by R.McRae Clerk,
Book D Vol. 1 Page 219.
Page 39

Power of Attorney
to
Arad Joy
Page 40

State of Pennsylvania
County of Warren} ss

Catharine Washburn - being duly 
sworn according to law, deposes and says that she is a child of Catharine Foster
(late widow Portman) deceased, to whom a pension was probably due & who was - an applicant for a pension from the State of Pennsylvania that this deponent is directly interested as one of the claimants in said claim. 
Catharine Washburn

Sworn and subscribed before me this 3rd day April 1852 and I do hereby certify that the
said Catharine Washburn is a respectable person,  and that I have full faith in the truth of
the above statement sworn to by her as being directly interested in said claim.
Perry Shearman
Justice of the Peace

Know all Men by these presents , That I Catharine Washburn a child of
Catharine Foster deceased, to whom a pension was probably due, & who was 
an applicant for a  pension from the State of Pennsylvania do hereby constitute and appoint
Arad Joy, of Ovid, N. Y., my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name as one directly and personally interested,
as also for and in behalf of all others interested in the claim or application for a pension as above mentioned.

Witness my hand and seal, this 3rd day of April 1852
SEALED AND DELIVERED IN 
THE PRESENCE OF}  Catharine Washburn [Seal]
Perry Shearman

State of Pennsylvania}
County of Warren}

Be it known that on the 3rd day of April 1852
before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County and State duly authorized by law to administer oaths
and take acknowledgements, personally appeared Catharine Washburn above named, and duly acknowledged
the above Power of Attorney and affidavits to be her act and deed.
 
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day and date above mentioned.

Perry Shearman
Justice of the Peace
Page 41

State of Michigan COUNTY OF Kalamazoo James Portman -- being duly sworn according to law, deposes and says that he is a child of Catharine Foster who was formerly Portman deceased, to whom a pension was probably due, & who was an applicant for a pension from the State of Pennsylvania that this deponent is directly interested as one of the claimants in said claim. his mother was formerly the widow of John Portman deceased late a pensioner James Portman 
Sworn and subscribed before me this 1 day of April 1852 and I do hereby certify that said James Portman- is a respectable person, and that I have full faith [hidden by crease] the above statement sworn to by him as being directly interested in said claim [hidden by crease] in the truth of G. M.  Harkes Jus of the Peace
Know all men by these presents, That I James Portman a child of Catharine Foster, was Portman deceased, to whom a pension was probably due, and who was  ARAD Joy, of Ovid [hidden by crease]  from the State of Pennsylvania do hereby constitute and appoint as [hidden by crease] N.Y., my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name as one directly and personally interested, [?] for and in behalf of all others interested in the claim or application for a pension as above mentioned. Witness my hand and seal, this day of 1852 SEALED AND DELIVERED IN THE PRESENCE OF G. M  Harkes       J.P. James Portman[seal]
Isaac Briggs J. P. 
STATE OF Michigan County of Kalamazoo Be it known that on the [blank] day of [blank] 1852 before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County and State, duly authorized by law to administer oaths and take acknowledgements, personally appeared I am Portman above named, and duly acknowledged the above Power of Attorney and affidavits to be his act and deed. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day and date above mentioned. G. M Harker Jus of the Peace
Page 42

Suspended claim
Catharine Foster
formerly Portman
Law 1838 Pa

You have attached the evidence that no divorse was granted - you have in the husband application the date of their marriage (stated in 1820), to have been in 1784, this application for a divorce seems to have been considered as good evidence of the fact, if so, the same evidence established the marriage in 1784.
You have the certificate of the court of the day of her death & of the name of the surviving children - I so understand it
The charge of divorse having been removed, I see no further objection to the admission of the claim - 2 powers of attorney are filed of my agency - 
Arad Joy
Page 43

Payment to be made at Pittsburg, Penna. by 
Jno Grayson
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of
Pittsburgh
Payable on the 4th September and 4th March
Recorded in the Pension Office in Book CA Vol. 2 Page 107
R. McRae Clerk.
Page 44

Cancelled
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
WIDOW'S PENSION.
I certify, that in conformity with the acts of March 3, 1843, & 17 June 1844
Catharine Foster, widow of John Portman
who was a private in the Revolutionary war
and died on the _ day of _ 1833 in inscribed on the pension list at the rate of Ninety Six dollars and _ cents per annum, commencing on the 4 March 1843, and terminating on the 4 March 1848 unless the Pensioner married or died before the last mentioned date; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage or death.
Given at the Department of the Interior,
this 7th day of September
one thousand eight hundred and fifty three
R. McClelland
Secretary of the Interior.
Examined and Countersigned.
L. P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 45

Brief of the
Evidence
Cath Foster
Page 46

In the matter of Catharine Foster, late widow of John Portman dec’d Pa.   
Brief of the Evidence              
Office Files No. 15.459}               Show that John Portman was a pensioner at $8 per month under the Act of 1818. Pensioned Sept 1819.              
3rd Auditors Report Feby 3. 1853} shows that John Portman died - or was paid to Sept. 4. 1833. Court Certificate - shows Portman's death in 1833. 
Register's Certificate - shows registration of Will,  14 Nov. 1833 
Court Certificate - shows that Portman left a widow Catharine, who was married to Foster 5th July 1839 - Foster died 20 Apl 1846 - and Catharine died 7 Feby. 1851, leaving six children - James & John Portman Sarah Green, Mary Martin, Jane Sloan & Catharine Washburn.     
Court also certifies that John & Catharine Portman were never divorced - though an application was filed in 1820.
Page 47

Grave Digger} Says he dug the grave of Thomas Foster 30 Apl 1846 - and Catharine 7 Feby '51. certified credible 
James Morrison - resided in Warren Co Pa in 1799. John Portman & Catharine were living as man and wife and two grown daughters Elizabeth & Rebecca. First knew his son James in 1801 He was then about 13 years old. (Certified credible) 
John Portman - In his schedule in 1820 speaks of his wife and married children.              
Children's declaration - Say their mothers maiden name was Catharine Goodlink. - The petition for a divorce dated in 1820 - says the marriage took place in 1784 and that Catharine's maiden name was Catharine Gudbling. (Variation I think immaterial. E.) 
John Frew. - Knew the parties in 1800 and knows applicant -- the identical widow of the said John Portman. certified credible
Page 48

Statement of the Case
John Portman was married long auterior to 1794 as shown by his petition for a divorce in 1820 & by the testimony of James Morrison, who says they had two grown daughters in 1799 - He was a pensioner under the government and at the rate of $95 per annum and died in 1833. Was paid to Sept. 1833. He left Catharine his widow who married again in 1839 - but whose second husband died in April 1846. In 1850 the said Catherine, then a widow applied for a pension. She died Feby 7 1857 & now the children prosecute the claim.
The marriage, death & heirship being proven we think the case made out & the pension should be allowed at $95 per annum from March 4th 1846 to March 4 1848 - less two years - & then to Feby 7 1857.
A. H. Evans


Mr Waldo
Comm'r &c
Page 49

Com.r of Pens [Commissioner of Pensions]
29th Jany '82
Case of Portman

Mr Triplett will please
reexamine this case and
explain where the evidence
of divorce is. 
G.M.
Page 50

186
Pension Office
January 29 1852
Sir:
There is nothing in the case of Catharine Foster to show that she was the widow of John Portman. She seems to have been divorced from him. The exact date of her marriage to her last husband must be proved.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
J. Wilson
For Comm Of Pensions
Full evidence of divorce for the misconduct of the wife is with the papers in this case.
G. V. M.
A. P. Norton Esq
Pittsburgh 
Pennsylvania
Page 51

Payment to be made at
Pittsburgh, Penna, by
Jno Grayson
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of
Pittsburgh
Payable on the 4th September and 4h March
Recorded in the Pension Office on the 
Roll of Pensioners under act February 2d, 1848, Page 222, Vol. 2
R. McRae
Clerk.
Page 52

Cancelled 
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
WIDOW'S PENSION.
I Certify, that in conformity with the act of February 2d, 1848,
Catharine Foster
widow of John Portman
who was a private in the revolutionary war, 
is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of Ninety six dollars and _ cents per annum, commencing on the 4th of March 1848, and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.
Given at the Department of the Interior
this Seventh day of September
on thousand eight hundred and fifty three.
R. McClelland
Secretary of the Interior
Examined and Countersigned, L. P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 53

Payment to be made at
Pittsburgh, Penna. by
Jno. Grayson
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of
Pittsburgh
Payable on the 4th September and 4th March 
Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book D[?] Vol. 1 Page 219 
R. Mc Rae Clerk.
Page 54

Cancelled 22 Sept. 1833
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
WIDOW'S PENSION.
I Certify, that in conformity with the act of July 7th, 1848,
Catharine Foster
widow of John Portman
who was a private in the Revolutionary war,
and died on the _ day of 1833 is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of Ninety six dollars and _ cents per annum, commencing on the 4th of March 1836, and terminating on the 4th of March, 1841, unless the Pensioner married or died before the last mentioned date; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage or death.
Given at the Department of the Interior
this 7th day of September
on thousand eight hundred and fifty three.
R. McClelland
Secretary of the Interior
Examined and Countersigned, L. P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 55

House of Rep U S
Feb 3rd 1833
Hon. A P Waldo
Sir
I enclose you this letter showing that (illegible)
sent to Pittsburgh for the payment of the Pension and (illegible) of Catharine Foster that the amount awarded to be divided between six children.  Now a careful examination of the papers will show that there were only 5 children surviving at the time this Pension was granted.  I with to call your attention other subject and if so found to assuage the order that the am't was divided into five shared can be drawn.  See letter No 1
Yours Truly
C B Curtis
Page 56

Ovid N. Y. Sept. 26, 1853
Sir
In obedience to your request of the 19th inst. I return (inclosed) the pension certificate of Catharine Foster, formerly widow of John Portman
Will you not please be so obliging as to embrace the whole pension in one certificate, as it will save the trouble & expense of 10 or 12 extra powers of attorney, the pay office requiring (as they now are) three powers of attorney from each child, where as, if the whole pension is embraced in one Certificate, one power from each child will do.  The parties reside so near N. Y. line will you not make it payable in Albany N. Y.
Please be so obliging, as to decide to whom the pension (admitted) in the care of Thomas Harvey, will be paid
Most Respectfully 
Your Ob't Serv't
Arad Joy
Hon L P Waldo
Com P
Page 57

Washington
April 15th 1852
Hon James E Heath
Com. of Pensions

Sir, I beg to lay before you a letter from Arad Joy of New York to reply & a reply from Catharine Washburn to Mr Joy - I take this course because I cannot call at your department before Thursday morning
I am respectfully 
Yours
 J M Howe
Page 58

Revolutionary Claim
Law of 1838 Pa

It is presumed, as the widows pension cannot run back of 1836, and as proof is attached of the fact of the death, or at least of the proving of the will of John Portman in November 1833, that he must there have been dead - 
No doubt the certificate & Seal of the Register of Wills attached, will remove all further objections - 
from 
Arad Joy
Ovid N.Y.
Page 59

State of Pennsylvania
Warren County} ss

I John H. McPherson Register for the
Probate of Wills and Granting letters of
Administration in and for the County of
Warren, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Do hereby certify that the last will and
testament  of John Portman, late of the
Borough of Warren, ____ is regularly upon
and among the Records of Said Courts - also
certify that said last will and testament was sworn according to law and entered of Records on the fourteenth day of November
AD 1833 and letters testementary was granted to Archibald Tamner of the Borough of Warren as appears from Said Records on the day and time above mentioned.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Register Courts at Warren, the twenty
ninth day of April AD 1853.
Jno F. McPherson. Register &c
Page 60

Pension office Feb: 3 / 53   
Pittsburg Pa Roll, Act 18 March 1818    
John Portman pri:  $8.00 per month    
To what time paid?                   
Thos H. Hanson jr  
Paid the 4th Sept. 1833 
B. L. B. on Philadelphia Roll     
Major Bogan Third Auditors Office
Page 61

Brief of Evidence in Catharine Foster's case           
Certificate of court that John Portman died in 1833            
Certificate of Register his will was proved & testamentary letters 
of Warren Co Pa.  granted to Arch Tamner on 14 Nov, 1833             
Certificate of court that he left a widow named Catharine Portman who was married to Thos. Foster 5 July 1839 - said Thos. Foster died 30 April 1846 & that Catharine Foster died 7 Febry 1851 leaving six children James & John Portman Sarah Green Mary Martin, Jane Sloan and Catharine Washburne  
Grave Digger says it appears from his book that he dug the grave of Thos. Foster on 30 April 1846 & that on the 7 February 1851 he dug the grave of "Catharine Foster widow of Thos. & formerly widow of John Portman" - witness certified to be credible               
James Morrison witness certified to be credible says that in 1799 he went to Warren Co. Pa. to reside                
he then found John & Catharine Portman living as man & wife & that they then had "two grown daughters" Elizabeth & Rebecca Portman that in 1802 Elizabeth married Mr. David McGintey - that Rebecca was married to Tim Carpenter in 1804 or 05 - that he first knew James Portman, son of John in 1801 he James was then 13 yrs. old
Page 62

John Portman in his schedule in 1820 speaks of his wife & married children that John Portman applied for a divorce from his wife Catharine whose maiden name was Catharine Gudbling. May term 1820              
Certificate of Court Children's declaration states that their mothers maiden name was Catharine Goodlink 
John Frew knew the parties Catharine & John Portman in 1800 & knows the claimant Catharine to be the identical widow of the aforesaid John – 
Certificate of Court of the 20th Sept. 1850 that John Portman applied for a divorce in March 1820 & that it was granted 
another Certificate of said Court dated 2 February 1853 that petition was made for divorce by John Portman in May 1820 & was never granted.
Page 63

Brief in the case of Catharine Foster widow of John Portman, late of Penn.
Warren County and State of Pennsylvania 
Act July 7, 1838 &c
Claim, ("original," or "for increase.")
Proof Exhibited, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls?  If either, state the substance.
John Portman was a pensioner at $96 per annum under the act of 1818.  He died in 1833 - leaving Catharine his widow. She married Foster in 1837 & he died in 1846.  She afterwards continued a widow to her death, Feb'y 7 1857.  Marriage is proven by parol & record - identify fully established - death & heirship certified by Court.  Pension allowed at $96 per annum from March 4, 1836 to Feb'y 7.

(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim?  If so, what?
Payable to children 1857 - less two years,
James Portman
John Portman
Sarah Green
Mary Martin
Jane Sloan
Catharine Washburne

Name and residence of Agent
Arad Joy                                    A H Evans     
Ovid N. Y.                                 Examining Clerk.
Page 64

Hon. J. E. Heath
Com'r of Pens.
Washington
D C

No answer required.

May 29 1857
Rel. to papers of Catharine Foster
Arad Joy
Ovid N. Y.
Page 65

One question
Ovid May 24th '51
Sir
Will you please be so obliging as to inform me by return mail, if the papers (making a large letter), of Catharine Foster late widow of John Portman a pensioner whose application from Pa was mailed to you Oct 4th 1850 were (they) rec'd; if rec'd may I ask a report.
Respectfully
Your Ob Servt
Arad Joy
Hon J. E. Heath
Comms. of Pens.
Page 66

Hon. Jas E Heath
Court of Pens.
Washington
D C
 
April 16 - 1857
Rel: to case of Catharine Foster

Arad Joy
Ovid 
N Y
Page 67

Ovid April 12th 1851

Hon F. S. Evans

Dear Sir
I beg and pray that this letter may be answered without delay 
On the 4th Oct last, I mailed direct to the Coms of Pensions, the Declaration and accompanying papers, a large letter in the case of Catharine Foster, former widow of John Portman late a Pensioner, both of Pa.
When I was in Washington Capt Triplett said it was time to search their papers & he looked in his office, & in the office next to yours & in Mr Coles office but did not find there. Mr Cole said he was far behind & that he might come across the papers, I have written humbly asking if the papers had been found but it got no answer - I want them found & Mr Anderson may find them, at least if they are lost, I wish to know it before the poor old widow dies, that I can make a new sett do please answer
Most Respectfully
Your Obt Sevt Arad Joy

Hon Jas E Health
Com Pens
Page 68

Hon. Jas E Heath
Court of Pensions
Washington
D C

March 27 - 57
Respg papers of Catharine Foster
Capt Triplett
Arad Joy
Ovid
N. Y.
Page 69

Delayed
Ovid March 21, 1851
Sir
On the 4th Oct last I enclosed  the declaration an prof, a large letter, to Court of Pensions is was the declaration of Cattharine Foster, who was the former widow of John Portman late a pensioner of Pa herself and applicant from Pa.
When I was in Washington Caps Triplett could not find the papers, he searched the next room to the Chief Clerk, I then went into Mr Cole's room, Mr Cole said he was far behind, that he might find the papers etc-
not a word have I heard and knowing is to be due to the widow, that  she should have a report, I have respectfully once  (at least, written asking the papers to be hunted up, Mr Anderson might find them, Please report the result to me soon,
Please answer soon
Most Respectfully your ob. serv
Arad Joy

Hon Jas E Heath
Court of Pensions
Page 70

Feb 3-1857
Relative to papers of Cathe Foster, Hannah Tinker and others

Arad Joy
Present-
File-Answered
Page 71

Washington Jan.31, 51
Sir
the papers in the case of Catharine Foster late widow of John Portman, Revolutionary claim, were and (I think) filed Oct 8 . or  9 .last, has not the case been reached and what is the decision.
Hannah Tinker widow of a pensioner her acceptance under law of 29 July 1848 filed about the 12th Nov, if I mistake not
Hannah Van Gorder, an allowed case the last papers required were filed I think in November, or first part of Dec.
What disposition has been made of all of the above cases.
Your Obt Serve
Arad Joy

Hon Jas. E. Heath
Comm. of Pensions

Elizabeth Bishop widow of [illegible] a pensioner of New York, she was only allowed from death of her husband, when her papers were filed before 23rd Jany. 1845
Page 72

Not received 
Ovid July 9, 1851
Sir
"In your of the 3rd July, you say a letter was addressed to you in the care of Catharine Foster" I have not seen any Such letter, may I therefore respectfully ask you to please furnish me with a copy of Such letter, to relieve my suspense.
Respectfully
Your Obd Sevt
Arad Joy
Hon Jas E. Heath
Comms. of Pens.
Washington D.C.
Page 73

Pension Office
December 9, 1853
Sir
Upon an examination of the enclosed vouchers it appears that the name of the Agency where the pension is payable is omitted. "Pittsburgh" should be inserted after City of, in the Powers of Attorney
I have the favor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your Obt Servt
S. Cole,
Chief Clerk
Hon C. B. Curtis
House of Representative
The word Pittsburgh is inserted
Page 74

Pension Office
April 24th, 1834,
Sir,
I herewith return the affidavits of Norman A. Hill & Seth A. Green, relative to the date of the death of James Portman.
Will you please state for what purpose it was filed. I cannot discover that he has made any application for a pension.
I have the honor to be 
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Sevt,
L. P. Waldo
Commissioner
Hon. C. B. Curtis
Ho. of Reps
Page 75

House of Rep            
April 28th 1834               
Hon L P Waldo                
Sir             
Your favor in closing the affidavits of N A Hill & Seth A Green is rec’d.    
I left anno at your department for the purpose of proving that Jas Portman one of the children of Catharine Foster was dec’d at the time of the granting arrears of Pension to his surviving children and that consequently there were only five shares instead of six as the papers on file in your department show and which was true at the time the paper was made out          
I forward an order for & of the heirs Mr Portman Mrs Martin, Mrs Sloan & ask for one sixth w/in the pension a grant at Pittsburgh whereas it ought to have been each one fifth 
Yours C B Curtis
Page 76

House of Reps
June 8th / 54
Hon L P Waldo      
Commissioner     
Sir     
I have presented the proofs in the case of the sons of John Portman to the Pension agent at Pittsburgh showing that this were only five surviving children at the time of granting the Pension The reply of the agent was that the Administrator of James Portman had rec’d his share           
I am inclined to believe that the Administrator had no right to claim it and that the payment to him should not be credit against the Survivors I refer the papers to your department for its decision upon the question raised by the proofs            
Yours 
C B Curtis
Page 77

Catharine Foster
Widow of 
John Portman
Pa.
Act July 7, 1838

Private $80 per annum
From March 4th 1836 to July 1, 1848 less 2 years & then at 96$ to Feby 7 1857 
Payable to Children
John Portman
James Portman
Sarah Green
Mary Martin
Jane Sloan
Cath. Washburn
Page 78

Ovid          N.Y. April 9. 1852           
Sir   
I know well that I have no claim no real right to trouble you-- I saw you & talked with you in Washington in February & I often saw you at the first Presbyterian Church to hear Mr Gallaher
But to my business, some 2 years since I was employed to try to get a pension for Catharine Foster of Pa who was formerly widow of John Portman of Pa I drew the declaration, drew the papers all together, & I filed them, but since then the widow has died I have been appointed by 3 of the children formally & one of them by request, making 4 of the children to act for them -  I am advised by some of the children that the husband of one child is acting in the case, when the family prefer my taking the charge   If you had business at the pension office, I should be greatly obliged if you would call up the case, when you are in the office & ask for a report. I enclose a formal power of attorney from one of the children. The haste that I am in, is to be known at once as the agent of the children at the pension office, that the action of the Department may be at and made upon the enclosed power of Attorney before my other report is made 
I am Your Obt Sevt  
Hon John W Howe    
Arad Joy
Page 79

Pinegrove Sept 28th 1850                  
Dear Sir
Yours of the 25th instant was Read by me requesting same explanation as to the divorce case the fact is simply this that in May 1820 John Portman filed his petition in the Court of Common pleas of Warren County praying the Court to grant a subpenary in Divorce to be served on his wife Catherine Portman which subpenary was granted    in his Affidavit a Coppy of which I sent to You together with the Subpenary there was not His subpenary issued by the Court which the Law requires before a Divorce can be obtained therefore the case went down & no further action was had on the matter    John Portman never married untill his death nor did Catherine Portman his wife marry untill after the death of her husband John Portman    the object of my sending those papers was to prove the marriage of John Portmen to Catherine Goodalink the present widow of Thos Foster these are simply the facts as where stated & no Divorce was had by Either of the parties             
I will give You a history of the matter in the fall of 1814 the old man J Portman  made over all his property to his son James where was to support the old Lady her the old men went to the State of Ohio & was absent between two & three years James Runn through what property he had and the old Lady was left with nothing to subsist upon & she went and kept house for a man by the name of Acor the old man Portman Returned in 1817 then shortly after his return he obtained his pension & to deprive the old Lady from coming on him for his support he applyed for a Divorce & under all the circumstances the Court would not grant a Bill 
Arad Joy Esq    Yours Respectfully Thos Martin
Page 80

Warren October the 23d 1857              
Dear Sir   
Yours was duly rec’d togeather with the Declaration for my wife to exicute which has been done you will readily perceive there has been some alteration made in the date of the Death of Catherine Foster it was made out that her death on the 7th August 1850 which was in error it occured on the 7th February 1851 which was amended before the Executing of the Declaration as to the place of Residence of Dean White I am not yet able to inform you I expect shortly to give on the necessary information it shall be forward to you without delay 
Yours With Esteem    
A. P. Norton James     Thomas Martin
Page 81

POWER OF ATTORNEY.   
State of Pennsylvania            
County of Warren } SS.   
Know all Men by these Presents, that I Mary Martin of Pine Grove Township in said State & County do hereby authorize, constitute and appoint Anson P. Norton of the City of Pittsburgh State of Pension, to prosecute for me and on my behalf, all and singular, claim or claims, I may have against the General Government of the United States, on account of the service of my Father John Portman deceased, in the war of the Revolution; the said power of Attorney to be irrevocable for the space of three years from the within date: and the said Anson P Norton is hereby authorized to take all necessary and proper steps in the prosecution of said claim or claims on my behalf                
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 30th day of September 1851 Eleazar W. Chase J.P.                  L. S.     
Mary Martin                 
State of Pennsylvania             
County of Warren }  ss.            
Be it Known, That on the 30th day of September 1857, before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared Mary Martin above named, and on oath declares she is directly interested as one of the claimants aforesaid, and acknowledged the foregoing Power of Attorney to be her act and deed      
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, the day and year last above mentioned Eleazar W Chase J.P.            
State of Pennsylvania         
County of Warren ss.    I, Silas S Aditt Prothonotary of the County and State aforesaid, do certify, that Eleazar W. Chase Esquire is now, and was at the time of the date of the foregoing, a Justice of the Peace, duly commissioned and qualified to act as such in and for said County, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine   
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and Official seal, this 30th day of Sept 1851 S. S. Aditt Prothy
Thos. Clemens
Page 82

Pension Certificate
Issued 7th Sept 1853
To Catharine Foster of Pa
She died Feb 7, 1851
Proof in your hands of that fact

Ovid N.Y. Sept 13 1853

sir
I received the Pension Certificate in the above named case today, as if she had have been living, when you have the proof of her death as having taken place 7th February 1851.

I cannot draw the pension, without first calling your attention to it, asking your consent.  I know, as to the pension it is all the same, as we cannot draw after her death, and I am satisfied as it is, if you are; and if I am allowed to go and draw it, since the pension certificate are issued as they are, I wait your instructions
Most Respectfully
Arad Joy
Page 83

Ovid N.Y. Dec 31, 1853

Sir
When I received the Pension Certificates for Catharine Foster, late widow of John Portman, of Pa, I saw I thought a large error against the Department and suggested it at once to the Department, on their request I surrendered the Pension Certificates for correction.  In all my pension business, I have acted upon this plan, to see so far as I could that all was right.  In this particular case I have so acted, and in the faithful discharge of my duty to a majority of the children to whom the pension is made payable, and at their earnest request that I should draw their shares and pay them over, I have consented to do so, and I have already (sometime since) received a power of attorney from two of the said interested children and am daily expecting the third, and the fourth I should have long since received only for the child having died, the family are asking and will furnish the power as soon as possible.

I have not withheld the pension certificate from any of the parties interested am and have always been ready to surrender if I could do it and discharge my duty to the majority of those personally interested, I am now ready to do it, but I am importuned not to do it, but to draw the shares of several of them.

I am not driven to act for parties that don't want me, I seek to be agent for none, if I am wanted, they must first seek my agency.  If your Department have received charges against me, in the above, case, or having withheld the pension certificate, I shall file in your hands satisfactory evidence to the contrary or that my agency was still wanted and leave the parties making such charges, on the dark side of the picture. 

Your Ob't Servt
Arad Joy
Hon L. P. Waldo
Page 84

I had proposed to draw Mrs Martins & James Portmans shares & pay the same as soon as drawn on their order to Thomas Martin, if he presented such order; I was appointed the agent by 5 of the children, at their own request, I was originally appointed the agent of the widow, by the widow as per my agency witnessed by Thomas Martins name I have not refered to Surrender my agency, but how can I surrender it when a majority insist upon my acting                 
If per chance, they have got into a family quarrel, I am not accountable for it – 
If payment has been directed to be made to two of the children, without the surrender of the pension certificate, it may be an indication that I had better surrender it , this I am, (& have been) ready to do, and make no complaint, as so far as I know the wish of the Department I will do
Page 85

Rev. War Section

May 31, 1917

Mr. J. U Campbell
Bowie, Texas

Sir:
In reply to your letter of the 26th instant, you are advised that a careful search of the records of this Bureau fails to show a claim for Revolutionary War pension on file for a soldier named John or Jack Portman who died in 1857.

There is but one soldier of the name, John Portman, found on the Revolutionary War pension records and he died at Warren, Warren County, Penn. Nov. 18, 1833 (W.7305).

Mrs. S. Bryan stated in her letter of inquiry that he served under General Francis Marion and lived near Bellefontaine, Miss.  As pensions were often granted by the states to which service was rendered, it is suggested that you consult the archives of the State of South Carolina, at Columbia, as his commanding officer was of the troops of said state. 

Very respectfully, 
G.M Saltzgaber
Commissioner

See negative slip and attached correspondence of M. Campbell.  On negative for John or Jack Portman who dies in 1857
Page 86

Lansing Mich. Feb 2-1934
Department Of the Interior
Revolutionary War Records
Gentlemen: -
I have a neice [niece] that is eligiable [eligible] to join the D.A.R. on the record of John Portman, Born 1750 died Nov 12-1833 Home Westmoreland Penn. His wife name was Catherine Gudeling-Portman. They were married 1784 at Warren Pa,
Now I am told that this record is in Revolutionary War Records marked Wid. File 7305. Interior Dept. Wash. D. C.
Notice--- This Number may be 2305 as it is not plainely [plainly] written in the letter.
Wil you please give me a copy of this record, for use as evidence demanded in the eligability [eligibility] of a member of the D. A. R.?
Your Truly
H. G. Moore
1340 Roosevelt ave
Lansing Mich. 
H. G. Moore
Page 87

Pittsburgh Penn’a
November 1 1851
Sir
I have the power herewith to submit the application of the heirs of John & Catharine Portman late widow of Thos Foster deceased of Warren County Pennsylvania for the benefit not paid July [unreadable] and subsequent  [unreadable]  
There was an application made for widow pension while she was alive the certificate granted to draw
The additional proof herewith submitted  is deemed sufficient to meet the requirements of the t
Department  
The enclosed letter of Thos Martin [unreadable] was made in the papers [unreadable] until the death of the widow when alteration of the Certificate by the Judge in the declaration.
I have the honor to be with the highest 
Respect your Obdt Svt   
A P Norton 
Hon J. E. Heath 
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D. C. 
P. S. Be pleased to send the certificate to the Executor.  A. P. Norton
Page 88

Free
Hon J. C. Calhoun
Secretary of Dept. of War
Washington City
Warren Pa
Jun 18
Pa
Rec’d 5 July 1821
Mr. Edwards
Page 89

Warren, Warren Co. Penna
June 17, 1821
Sir,
I herewith transmit the application of John Portman to be continued on the Pension List. The evidence of his being continued you will please forward to me.
Yours respectfully,
Abner Hazeltine
Hon J. C. Calhoun
Page 90

Among the Records and Judicial proceedings of the Court of Common Pleas for the County of Warren in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania before the Honorable Jesse Moore President and Joseph Hackney and Isaac Connelly Associate Judges of Said Court at Warren, at No 27 May Term AD 1820 are to be found as follows - to wit -               
Petition &c                       
To the Honorable Jesse Moore Esq. President and his Associate Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Warren - The petition of the Subscriber an inhabitant of said County - Humbly Sheweth -         
That your petitioner John Portman on the Ninth day of May in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred and Eighty four was intermarried with a certain Catharine Gudbling in Cumberland County in the State of Pennsylvania, and that the Said Catharine his wife hath been guilty of the crime of adultery and wilful and malicious desertion and absence from the habitation of the Said John without any reasonable cause for and during the space of two years and more in violation of the previous vows of matrimony made to him the Said John -        
Your therefore prays your Honor to grant a Subpoena to be issued, directed to the Said Catharine commanding her to appear at the next Court of Common Pleas of Said County to answer his Said petition -              
And your petitioner upon oath states that the facts above States in his petition are true to the best of his knowledge and beliefs and that his Said Complaint is not made out of levity or by collusion between him and his Said wife and for the mere purpose of being freed and Separated from her the Said Catherine, but in Sincerity and truth for the cause above mentioned               
Sworn and Subscribed in open Court the Sixth day - over
Page 91

of March in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and twenty -    John Portman - Filing & endorsing on the back”        
John Portman Libels in Divorce - No 27 May Term 1820.              
Copy of Subpoena          
Warren County ss [seal]                          
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to Catharine Portman of Conewango township - Greetings - Whereas John Portman did on the Sixth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand, Eight hundred and twenty, prefer a petition to our Judges of the Court of Common Please of the County of Warren at a Court held at Warren in and for Said County praying that for the cause therein set forth he might be divorced from the bonds of matrimony entered into with you the said Catharine we do therefore command you the Said Catharine that setting aside all other business and excuses whatsoever you be and appear in your proper person before our Judges at Warren at a Court of Common pleas there to be held for the Said County on the fifth Monday of May next to answer the petition or libel of the Said John your husband should not be divorced from the bonds of matrimony agreeably to the acts of general assembly in such can made and provide And hereof you can not fail 
Isaac Connelly          
Endorsed on the back” 
“Subpoena to Catharine Portman Rel.th May Sessions 1820 No 27 May Term 1820 - - Personally Served 16th March 1820. So ans – 
M. C. Dalrymple Shff - Shff fees $2.46          
over
Page 92

Mark C. Dalrymple being duly sworn according to law deponeth and saith that he as Sheriff of Warren County personally served the within writ upon Catharine Portman at least fifteen days before the return thereof – 
Sworn & subscribed before me 30th May 1820. }  
M. C. Dalrymple             
S. Wetmore Prot.  
“Dockets Entry”  No. 27.  May Term 1820
Gallowith                 
John Portman vs Catharine Portman 
Prothy W.  $3.00 }
Sub. Libel in divorce So Amers &c
State of Pennsylvania               
Warren County } ss           
I Rufus P King Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Warren and State of Pennsylvania Do hereby certify that the aforegoing is an exact exemplified copy of the whole Record and all papers on file in relation to a certain Libel in Divorce wherein John Portman is Libellant and Catharine Portman respondent remaining in said Court of Record           
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Warren, the twenty Sixth day of May AD 1853.                 
Rufus P. King Prothontary
Page 93

PENNSYLVANIA    
WARREN COUNTY, } SS   I, John Galbraith President Judge of the Sixth Judicial District, composed of the counties of Erie, Crawford, and Warren, in the State of Pennsylvania, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, that the above Certificate and attestation is in due form of law, and that Rufus P. King who subscribed the same, is the Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the county of Warren, and that the seal thereto affixed is the Seal of the said Court; Also, that said is duly commissioned and qualified to act as the Prothonotary of the Court in Warren County aforesaid, and is the proper person for attesting the same. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Warren this twenty sixth day of May 1853.     
John Galbraith                   
State of Pennsylvania                  
Warren County } SS    Rufus P. King Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas for the County of Warren in the State aforesaid do certify that John Galbraith Esquire is President Judge of the Several Courts of Common Pleas in the Sixth Judicial District of Said State, comprising the Counties of Erie, Crawford and Warren and that the signature to the foregoing certificate is in the genuine handwriting of the said Judge           
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court, at Warren the twenty sixth day of May AD 1853        
Rufus P King Prothonotary
Page 94

Admitted Revolutionary claim
Law of 1838 of Pa
Heir case
All ready to isssue Certificate of Pension
Ovid N. Y. June 2nd 1853
Dear Sir
I enclose, attached to this, all that is required in this case - Mr. Hanson carefully examined the claim + admitted it, except he required a word or two of explanation, which is attached.
It being an admitted Heirs case + as you direct Such cases to be taken up without any delay, I have taken the liberty of explaining this case, that it may come under the rule, + be acted on without any delay,
I am Most Respectfully
your Ob't Servt
Arad Joy
Hon. L. P. Waldo
Com. [bottom left corner folded]
Washington, Au 16 [illegible] in this Records[?]
Page 95

Warren Pa May 26 1853            
Mr. A. Joy
Dr Sir
I rec’d your letter in regard to the Certificates from this Court in relation to the Catharine Foster Divorce and was a little surprised that they were to entirely misapprehended - In the first place there now was but one proceeding commenced in this Court.- and all the certificates that have been issued related to the same proceeding - The Petition was filed in the Court on the 6th day of March 1820. & Entered as 27. May Term 1820 & Subpoena & served by Shff [Sheriff] on the 16th of March 1820 ---   
In order to explain fully the whole matter. I ann’d a full and entire Record of the proceedings in this case. The order of the Court you will observe was Simply granting that a sub. might issue, commanding the said Catharine to appear & as per prayer in petition there was no decree or Certificate of Divorce granted by the Court, simply because the allegations in the petition were not proven, or even an attempts to do so.          
The "clothing” certainly must be with the Clerks at Washington, and set into this Record
Page 96

I have attached the Certificates as directed by you to the Records
Very truly yours 
Rufus P  King 
Atty fee $1.00
May 31 / 53
Page 97

PENSION OFFICE  7 September 1853.
SIR:  Be pleased to inscribe on your roll under the act below mentioned the following names, and pay the pensions as directed opposite the names.
Respectfully
L. P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions.
To  John Grayson Esq 
Pen Agt Pittsburgh Pa  }
NAMES.  Catharine Foster   Widow of John Portman     RANK.  Private  ACT  7 July 1838  ANNUAL AMOUNT. $96   COMMENCEMENT OF PENSIONS.   4 March 1836  CONTINUATIONS OF PENSIONS.  4 March 1841    
NAMES.  Catharine Foster   Widow of John Portman     RANK.  Private   ACT  3 March 1843 & 17 June 1844  ANNUAL AMOUNT.  $96   COMMENCEMENT OF PENSIONS. 4 March 1843  CONTINUATIONS OF PENSIONS  4 March 1848
NAMES.  Catharine Foster   Widow of John Portman     RANK.  Private    ACT 2 Feb 1848  ANNUAL AMOUNT.   $96   COMMENCEMENT OF PENSIONS.  4 March 1848 CONTINUATIONS OF PENSIONS  During Widowhood
Page 98

State of Pennsylvania           
County of Warren } SS            On this 30th day of September 1837 personally appeared before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for said County Blakeley Burnes resident in said County aged 50 years who being first duly sworn according to law doth depose and say that on the 7 day of February 1837 he dug the grave for the body of Catharine Foster late widow of Thomas Foster deceased and formerly widow of John Portman deceased late a revolutionary soldier & pensioner of the United States in the aforesaid County         
This declarant further states that on the 30th day of April in the year eighteen hundred and forty six (1846) he dug the grave for the body of the aforesaid Thomas Foster which fact he has now on record in his possession as also in the case of Catharine Foster               
This declarant states that the said Catharine Foster died leaving children only surviving her whose names are James and John Portman Sarah Green, Mary Martin, Jane Sloan and Catharine Washburn    
Blakeley Burnes                
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written Before me 
Eleazar W Chase J.P.                           
I also certify that Blakeley Burnes is a man of respectability and that his testimony is entitled to full credit and belief        
Eleazar W Chase
Page 99

State of Pennsylvania           
County of Warren } SS   
I Silas S. Aditt Prothonotary of the County and State aforesaid do certify that Eleazer W Chase Esquire is now and was at the time of the date of the foregoing a Justice of the Peace duly commissioned and qualified to act as such in and for said County and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine              
In testimony whereof I have here unto set my hand Seal this 30th and official of September A.D. 1837              
S. S. Aditt Prothy         
Thos Clemens Dep S .
Page 100

State of Pennsylvania
Warren County SS   
Before me one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Warren and State aforesaid personally came Archibald Tanner Esquire who after being duly sworn deposeth and saith that he was personally acquainted with John Portman late of said County in his lifetime, that he Deponent held the certificate of said John Portman and drew his pension at Philadelphia through Robinson R. Moore Deponants agent from the 4th of September 1821 to the time of his said Portman's death, which occured on or about the 12th day of November 1833 -  at Warren in the County & State aforesaid The Certificate he Deponent returned to the office at Philadelphia, as directed, soon after the death of said Portman. Deponent does not recollect the date of the Certificate but knows that said Portman was on the Pension list previous to the 4th of September 1821 - Judge Roberts of Pittsburgh Penn’a acted as agent for said Portman, and Deponent believes, drew his money up to Sept 4th 1821 Deponant states that a part or all of the many passed through his hands, so drawn by Judge Roberts as Portmans pension money            
Arch Tanner
Sworn and subscribed before me a Judge as above stated the 23rd day of Sept A. D. 1850
G Merrill
Page 101

Arad Joy
Ovid N. Y.
No. 14.217
My hand & seal of the Court of Common Pleas at the Borough of Warren this 24th day of September A. D. 1850
S. S. Aditt Prothonotary
Thos Clemens Deputy
Page 102

State of Pennsylvania             
Warren County }  SS   
Before me one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County personally came  John Frew aged fifty years and who has been to me long personally known and is a person of high respectability, who after being duly sworn doth depose and say that he first saw John Portman and Catharine Portman his wife now Catharine Foster, in the month of August in the year 1800 at my Fathers house in the Township of Sugargrove in the County of Warren aforesaid and was acquainted with John Portman from that time until his death and with the said Catharine from that time to this present day that they were living together as man and wife and had a number of Children to wit Betsy Portman, Rebecca Portman James Portman John Portman Jr & Sarah Portman Mary Portman, Jane Portman and Catharine Portman that he cannot state the ages of the several children, but that he knows that Mary Portman was with said John & Catharine Portman at his Fathers house in August 1800 and was then about one years old. Deponent further states that Catharine Foster the present applicant is the Identical Catharine Portman and late widow of the said John Portman          
John Frew
Sworn & Subscribed before me 
this 23d day of September AD 1850 }     
G Merrill Judge
Page 103

No. 14217
State of Pennsylvania 
Warren County } SS
I S. S. Aditt Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of Wayne County & Commonwealth of Penn’a. Do hereby certify that Gilman Merrill before whom the within & [unreadable] affidavits were taken was at the date thereof and now is one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in & for Warren County and State of Pennsylvania, duly commissioned and sworn and further, that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of said Judge and verily believe that the signatures G. Merrill subscribed thereto are genuine   Given under my hand & seal of the Court of Common Pleas at the Borough of Warren this 24th day of September AD 1850        
S.  S. Aditt  Prothonotary  
Thos Clemens Deputy 
Arad Joy
Ovid N.Y.
No. 14.217
Page 104

Among the Rolls and Judicial proceedings remaining in the Court of Common Pleas in & for the County of Warren and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania  the following in words and figins appears, to wit,            
(Petition & Oath)               
To the Honorable Jesse Moore Esq President and his associated of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Warren The petition of the subscriber an inhabitant of said County Humbly sheweth ,           
That your petitioner John Portman on the Ninth day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty four was intermarried with a certain Catharine Gudbling in Cumberland County in the State of Pennsylvania and that the said Catharine his wife hath been guilty of the crime of adultery and wilful and malicious desertion and absence from the habitation of the said John without any reasonable cause, for and during the space of two years and more, in violation of the previous vows of Matrimony, made to him the said John  Your therefore prays your honors to grant a subpoenas to be issued directed to said Catharine commanding her to appear at the next court of Common Pleas of said County to answer his said petition           
And your petitioner upon oath states that the facts above stated in his petition and true to the best of his knowledge and belief, and that his said complaint is not made out of thirty or by collision between him and his said wife, and for the more purpose of being freed and separated from her the said Catharine, but in security and truth for the causes above mentioned          
Sworn and subscribed in open Court the sixth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Twenty 
John Portman"             
(Endorsed to the Back)            
No 27. May Term 1820. John Portman Libel in Divorce Granted by the Court, filed 6th March 1820        
(Subpoena)
Page 105

Warren County  ss    
[seal]  
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to Catharine Portman of Coneway Township Greeting: Whereas John Portman did on the sixth day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty, before a petition to one Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Warren, at a Court held at Name in and for said County, praying, that for the causes therein set forth, he might be divorced from the bonds of Matrimony interred into with you the said Catharine, we do therefore command you the said Catharine that setting aside all other business and excuses whatsoever you be, and appear in your proper person before the Judges at Warren Court of Common Pleas, there to be held for the said County on the Fifth Monday of May next to answer the petition in libel of the said John, and to show cause if any you have why the said John your husband should not be divorced from the bonds of Matrimony agreeably to the act of Genl Assembly in such case made and provided and hereof you are not to fail            
Isaac Connely 
(Endorsed on the Back)                 
Subpoena to Catharine Portman, Res’d May Sessions 1820    
Personally served 12th March 1820. - served M C. Dalrymple Shff [sheriff]   Shff [unreadable] 246. Mark C. Dalrymple being duly sworn according to law deposeth and saith that he as Sheriff of Warrem County, personally served the within writ upon Catharine Portman at least ten days before the return thereof 
M. C. Dalrymple  Shff
Sworn & subscribed before me the 30th May 1820. 
S. Wetmore Pro }  
(Docket Entries)
Galbraith
John Portman
vs
Catharine Portman}
No 27 May Term 1820
Sub. Libel in Divorce
Served & Answers &c
Ro W.  $3.00
Page 106

State of Pennsylvania          
Warren County } SS      
I S S Aditt, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas in & for the County of Warren & Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Do hereby certify that the aforegoing is a true, entire & exemplified Copy of the whole record and all papers on file in or application for a Divorce of John Portman from the bonds of Matrimony with his wife Catharine Portman, so full and entire as the same remains in my office             
Given under my hand and the seal of the Court of Common Pleas at the Borough of Warren this 20th day of September 1850         
S. S Aditt, Prothonotary             
J Tho Clemens, Deputy          
PENNSYLVANIA        
Warren county } SS, 
I Gaylord Church President Judge of the Sixth Judicial District, or Circuit, composed of the counties of Erie, Crawford, Venango and Warren, in the State of Pennsylvania, do hereby certify that the above certificate and attestation is in due form of law; and that S. S. Aditt  who subscribed the same, is the Prothonotary of the court of common pleas in and for the county of Warren and the seal thereto affixed is the seal of said court; also that said S S Aditt duly commissioned and qualified to act as the Prothonotary aforesaid, and is the proper officer for attesting the same   In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal at Warren this [unreadable] day of September 1850 
Gaylord Church  [seal]
Page 107

Free 
War Office
Washington City
Pittsburg Jan 12
Pa 261
John Portman
Rec'd 19 Jan 1821
No. 15459
mar 20
Continue
J.L.E.
continued
Page 108

Pennsylvania   Sct
 At a Court of Common Pleas held by adjournment at the City of Pittsburgh for the County of Allegheny in the Fifth Judicial District in his the Commonwealth aforesaid fourteenth day of August AD 1820 before the Honble Samuel Roberts & Francis McClurd James Riddle Esq Judge at said Court. 
On this fourteenth day of August AD 1820 personally appeared in open court being a court of record proceeding according to the [unreadable] of the common law with a jurisdiction unlimited in point of amount John Portman aged nearly seventy years resident in the  County aforesaid who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration - That he served in the Revolutionary War as follows - That he enlisted in 1776 in Westmoreland County State of Pa in the 8th Battalion commanded by Enos McCay  for during the War. Moses Carson the Captain under
Page 109

when he enlisted - Afterwards the company was commanded by John Finley - That he served as aforesaid until taken prisoner at the Battle of Brandywine. That he remained a prisoner till the year 1781            
That this deponent is inscribed on the pension list roll of the Pennsylvania Agency & is entitled to receive a pension under the act of 18 March 1818 - That his Certificate of Pension is dated the thirteen day of September AD 1819 and numbered 15,459, the deponent further states that he was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th March 1818 & still is & that he has not since that time, by gift sale or in any manner disposed of his property & or any part thereof with intent thereby diminish it as to bring herself within the provisions of the act of Congress entitled “an Act provide for certain persons engaged in the land & naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary War" passed the 18th March 1818 & that he hath not nor has any other person in trust for him any property or securities contracts or debts due to him, nor hath he any income whatever. That he has a wife & children who are married. that he has no estate real personal or mixed            John Portman
Sworn & Subscribed in open Court this 11th day of August AD1820   
E Pentland   Pro.
Page 110

I Ephraim Pentland Prothonotary of the Court in of Common Pleas of Allegheny County do hereby certify that  the foregoing oath is truly copied from the records of the said Court And I do further certify that it is the opinion of he said Court that the petitioner has no property whatever   
In testimony whereof have hereunto Set my hand & seal of Office On this 14 day August 1820. 
E. Pentland Pro.
If this application should be successful the petitioner respectfully requests that the letter informing him if it be directed to Samuel A. Roberts Esq Pittsburgh
Page 111

THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES
Form VAM-51
12-2-41
BOUNTY LAND WARRANT RECORD CARD*
Division of Veterans' Administration Archives
Name Portter, William
Grade Private
Line Maryland
WARRANT NUMBER 11590
ACREAGE 100
ISSUED March 21, 1794 to Henry Coon, assignee

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