Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 3977, for John Ray, North Carolina
Page 1

(Printed form, handwritten responses)
(3-1776)
SERVICE	NUMBER
N.C.	Ray, John 	W. 3977
Freeland, Angnes or Nancy
[John written underneath with arrow pointing to the name Freeland]	
Former Widow
CONTENTS
Page 2

[handwritten letter]
Be it remembered that [illegible] John Ray [illegible] [illegible] acknowledges themselves [illegible]thus [illegible] & [illegible]indebted to his Excellency Alex Martin esq. this [illegible] in the sum of five hundred pounds Current money to which will & truly to be made [illegible] Rest to be void on condition that these is no lawful cause to obstruct a marriage between for whom a License now issues 
knowledged before me [illegible] 16th Jany 1784. [illegible] John Ray [hand drawn seal] William Tisdale [hand drawn seal] [illegible] Benton a copy J. Taylor CC
State of North Carolina I John Taylor Clerk of Orange County Court of pleas & quarter Session Certify that the forgoing is a true copy of the Original filed in my office 
Witness my hand & seal of Office 13th Sept 1844 J.Taylor CC
Page 3

[handwritten family record]
[678]
FAMILY RECORD.
[column heading] BIRTHS. William Ray Born, Feb 27th 1785, [illegible]bal Ray Born May 14th 1787.
Martha Ray Born April 14th 1789. John T. Ray Born Oct 17th 1791. Nancy Ray Born June 25th 1794.
James R. Ray Born Oct 12th 1796, Elizabeth Ray Born Augt 16th 1798, Mary Ray Born July 14th 1801.
BIRTHS. Ellender Ray Born March 14th 1804 John B. Fitch Sept 24th 1805 Thomas Fitch Born
Nov 27th 1810. Asher H. Ray Born Jany 16th 1879- Nancy T. Fitch March 10th 1814
[illegible] Oct. 24th 1818 John P McCaddinigs was Born Oct 8th 1822  William [illegible] Mc Cadding 
was Born July 21 188[illegible]
Sarah E Ray was 1822
Born October 25th
Page 4

[handwritten family record]
[677]
FAMILY RECORD
MARRIAGES. 
[illegible] Ray [illegible] was married June 20th 1841- [manicule]MARRIAGES.
John & Agness Ray was married January 22nd 1784 — [illegible]bel May married Oct 4th. 1804
Martha Ray do Sept 17th 1807, Nancy Ray do June 26th 1816,
Ellender Ray was marred March [illegible] st 1827 Abry Ray was married AD 1829 December 18th Elizabeth Ray married February 19th 1829
Page 5

[printed page, handwritten responses]
8620
North Carolina
Agnes Freeland formerly widow of John Ray who was a Captain of Infantry in the Revolutionary War
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 120 Dollars
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843. [illegible] 4th March 1848
---
Certificate of Pension issued the 15 day of Aug 1849 and sent to Jas A Craig Esq [illegible] N.C.
[Acts of March 3, 1843 & June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book a Vol. 2 Page 154
Page 6

[handwritten letter]
Declaration( of Agness Freland)

In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of the 7th July, 1838, entitled "An act Granting half pay of pension to Certain Widows."
State of North Carolina  County of Orange } SS
On this the 28 day of November in the year 1864 personally appeared before the undersigned one of the Justices of the Court of Pleas and quarter Sessions in said County, Agnes Freeland a resident of New Hope in said County of Orange aged 80 years who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her will make the going decleration, in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed July 7 1838 Entitled an Act granting half pay and pension to certain widows." 
1. Her [illegible] set forth upon her said oath that she has reason to believe & does believe that in the war of the Revolution her [crossed out] ^Former husband John Ray as Captain of Militia did serve the United States Several different tours of duty, and that in each, he was in legally organised Corps, and called
into service by competent authority. But having not been married till after close of the War, and her ^said first husband having been dead about 28 years, she is therefore unable to give any full or minute detail of Captain Ray Revolutionary Services but what he has heard him relate and from the statements set forth by others: She has Reason to believe and does believe that her^former husband the aforesaid John Ray as Captain of a Company of [illegible] Milita for five months, did serve part of the tour in South Carolina, and was under Colonel Locke & General Rutherford- was organised in the Town of Hillsboro in the aforesaid County who served all of said five months tour.
2. The said Agnes Freeland as aforesaid further setteth forth upon her said oath that she has reason to believe and does believe that in the Summer of the year of 1780, there was a draught for three months militia men that her decd husband, aforesaid was duly appointed and commissioned Captain of a Company and did serve as Captain a three months tour of duty in the United States &
in said tour was in Gates defeat
Page 7

[handwritten letter]
(2)
3rd The said Agnes Freelard widow as aforesaid further sets forth that the has reason to believe and does believe that in the month of February 1781 her^first husband the aforesaid Contain John Ray, was in the United States service, and with Lees Legion but how long he served with the Legion
she is unable to [illegible] 
4th The declarant further set forth that she has reason to believe that on or about the 1 September following, her decd husband the said John Ray, was in command again of a company of Militia and on the day Col Fanning Surprised and captured the Town of Hillsboro in the aforesaid County, which is believed to be on or about the 15t day of said month, Captain Ray, was at time in the neighbourhood of said town, and harrowly escaped being made prisoner by Col Fanning: -  the said Agness further states that she has reason to believe and does believe that said John Ray as captain aforesaid with other troops under Col Tinnin & General Butler, did [illegible] the Tory ^forces to the neighbourhood of Wilmington - and was under General Butler in the engagement with the enemy at Lucas' Lane. That her deceased husband, aforesaid remained in the service, in this tour till about the middle of December following.
5 the said Agness Freeland widow as aforesaid, further stateth that sometime in the spring of the ensuing year 1782, the aforesaid John Ray, as Captain of a Company of Militia, under Col Pateal & Brigader General Batter served a tour to the South of three months duration. was on the
Pee Dee Sandy Creek cross Creek, this town the Declarant underlands was to owe to Tories,
This declarant further states that she has reason to believe and does believe that said John Ray as Captain of Millia, was in other tours in the United States Service, but is not enabled to give any detailed account of them, from what she has heard her husband say, and from the statements made by others, she has reason to believe that her deceased husband served other tours in the militia in the service of his County
that said Captain Ray died about Twenty Eight years ago when all of his papers passed into the hands of Executors, who have not preserved
Page 8

[handwritten letter]
(3)
any of his Revolutionary papers
The said Agness Freeland widow as aforesaid further sets forth that her Maiden name was Trousdale in that she was married by James Freeland Esquire to the aforesaid Captain John Ray on the
Twenty Second day of January Seventeen Hundred and Eighty four (1784)
That she has a family Record, which is taken from their family Bible, and is as it purports to be a true & Genuine Family Record and is as follows to wit:
John and Agness Ray was married the 22nd January "1784"
"Isbel Ray married Oct 4 1804. "Martha Ray. do. Sept 17th 1809. "Mary Ray do June 24 1816
"Elender Ray was married March 1, 1821'
"Births"
"William Ray Born February27th 1785" "Isbel Ray Born May 14th 1787"
"Martha Ray Born April 14th 1789" "John Ray Born Oct 17th 1789" "Nancy Ray Born June 25 1794" 
"James L Ray Born Oct 12 1796" "Elizabeth Ray Born Augt 16th 1796" "Mary Ray Born July 14th 1801" "Ellenor Ray Born March 14th 1804."  {the names that follow on the Family Record, are Grand children.}
Said Family Record is hereto annexed-
Page 9

[handwritten letter]
(4)
The declarant further set forth that her ^former husband Captain John Ray died on the 4th day of March, 1816. That she again intermarried with John Freeland, on the 17 January 1826. that said John Freeland did die on the 24 day of June 1843. leaving the said Agness his widow who has had since married, but still remains the widow of the aforesaid John Freela
That she was not married to her former husband John Ray previous to his leaving the service, but that the marriage took place before the 1st day of January Seventeen hundred & ninety four: That of the time above states to wit: 1784.
That from old age and bodily infirmity the declarant is unable to attend Court to make this Declaration.
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and date first written before me
Saml Strayhorn, J. Peace
Agness [her X mark] Freeland
I the said Justice after investigating the matter and pulling the [illegible] prescribed by the war department, declare my opinion, that the aforesaid John Ray as captain of Millia did serve the United States in the war of the Revolution, as set forth by his widow Agness Freeland- I further certify that Satisfactory evidence has been this day furnished me that Agness Trousdale the declarant & Captain John Ray were lawfully married in the County of Orange aforesaid, on the 22 day of January 1784 & that
said John Ray did die on the 4th March 1816. And at said Agness Ray her widow intermarried with John Freeland on the 17 of January 1826 and that ^ said Freeland died on the 24 day of January 1843. leaving the aforesaid Agness his widow, who has not since married but still remains his widow. I further certify that the Declarant is known to me as an aged & respectable lady, & that her statements are entitled to full & ample Credit I also Certify that she has not intermarried since the death of her last husband John Freeland, but that she still remains his widow. And that from all of & bodily infirmity the Declarant cannot attend Court & Declaration 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand
and Seal, on this the 28 day of November, 1844
Saml Straythom J. Peace [hand drawn seal]
Page 10

North Carolina, Orange County
Chapelhill, April 23, 1834.
Dear Sir,
Mrs. Nancy or agnes, Freedland has been a revolutionary pensioner. It appears that by your leter act, she was entitled to have her pension increased in the winter or spring of 1832. There was an effort made to draw that increase pension, but for want of some violence that failed the papers was left in the honors of Dr. Andrew C. Murdock in that time Mrs. Freedland died. Mr. Murdock was making another effort to draw the money and the heirs of Mrs. Freedland thinks he got the pensions it has been runaway for me as Executor of Mrs. Freedland to inquire after this matter you will confer a great favor by informing me if any person has ever drawn the above mentioned pension. If so, please name the amounts and direct a letter to me at Chapel Hill, NC, I would be glad to get this information as soon as possible if Mr. Mudrock or any other person has drawn the money, it has been in the last twelve months.
Yours Respectfully,
David K. Blackwood.
Page 11

[printed page, handwritten responses]
Revy WIDOW, &c.
File No. 3977
Agnes Freedland, for formerly Wid. of John Ray
Pvt. Revolutionary War
Act:Feby 2d [illegible]
Index:-Vol. A Page, 353
[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 12

[printed form, handwritten responses]
[left side of page]
M. Thompson
Dec. 2 [illegible]
Davis K Blackurod
R May
[righthand side of page]
North Carolina
Agnes Freeland
former widow of John Ray NC who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Captain of Infantry
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 120 Dollars  - cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848. Certificate of Pension issued the 15 day of Aug 1847 and sent to James a Craig Ruffinsaith
Page 13

[handwritten]
[left side of page, vertical]
WMatter Retor 		10
[right hand side of page]
Land Amt 46.0.05 Akers Poles 204
not valuable
Page 14

[handwritten]
March 26th 1791. Reed of Capt John Ray ten poundsin part of his collection of taxes for the did of S. Asaph for the year 1789.
Wm Watter John Taylor 26th March 1791. Recieved five pounds of Cap Jn Ray in further payment of his collection for the dist of [illegible] for the year 1789 - WWatters
Page 15


[handwritten]
11770
Agnes Freeland No.Car.
Act 7 July 1838.
H. H. Sylvester, 13 May '45 J. A. Craig, 18 Oct  T. L. H. P. Smith 31 Mar 46
Sent to Hon: Geo. E. Badger mar 3d 47
to same May 28 '47
to same Aug 16 '47
to Hon H. Johnson July 17 '48
Set to Hon. G. E. Badger April 23 '49
Page 16

[handwritten]
Agnes Freeland, formerly widow of John Ray, allowed by the Secretary of the Interior, for six months, as a Captain of Infantry, under Act of July 7 1838 (see Secretary's letter dated August 14 1849 filed with "Decisions") Send certificate to James A. Craig. Esq Ruffin's Mills, N.C.
Page 17

14
the Court of Pensions.
Page 18

[handwritten]
I respectfully ask of the Court of Pensions a reexamination of the case of Ms Agness Freeland upon the supplementary [illlegible] which accompanies this note - 
G. E Badger
[illegible] Chamber 10 March '49
Page 19

[handwritten]
=1.25
1222.30
1.25
56223.75
50
Page 20

[handwritten]
[illegible writing]
1782
Page 21

[printed form, handwritten responses]
10.712
North Carolina
Agnes Freeland formerly Widow of John Ray who was a pensoiner under the Act of [blank] and who died on the [blank] of [blank] in the State of North Carolina who was a Captain in the Infantry commanded by Captain [blank] of the [blank] commanded by [blank] in the North Carolina line for 6 mo
Inscribed on the Roll of North Carolina at the rate of 120 Dollars [blank] cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 15t day of Aug 1849 and sent to J.A.Craig Ruffinsmill NC
Total amount, $ [blank]
[Act July 7, 1838.] Recorded by Henry Robins Clerk, Book D. Vol. 1 Page 289
Page 22

[handwritten]
[left side of page, vertical]
Agness Freeland [illegible circular stamp]
[right side of page]
Pension office James A. Craig, Esq Ruffin's Mills, N. Carolina.
Page 23

[handwritten letter]
Pension Office
October 18. 1845.
Sir The additional evidence in the case of Agness Freeland, formerly widow of John Ray, has been examined and filed. This claim is made for service as a Captain in the militia of North Carolina. The certificate of the Comptroller of that State shewing a large amount paid to a person^or persons of that name, for militia service, is produced to sustain the same. It is very clear that no one person rendered the service for which all the payments shewn in that certificate, were made and what portion of the same, if any was paid for services of claimant's husband, it is [illegible] on her to shew The rules require that the rank of a commissioner officer shall be established by the production of his commission, or by record or documentary evidence. This will has not been complied with in this case.
I am respectfully,
Your Obt Sert
J L Edwards

James A. Craig Esqr
Ruffin's Mills
N. Carolina
Page 24

Captain John Ray.
Page 25

[handwritten]
(8)
State of North Carolina
Cholam County
On this 20th day of November, 1844, personally appeared before the undersigned, one of the Justices of the Court of pleas and claims superior for said County James Pollar, a resident of Colham County and an United States pensioner at age 20, who being first duly qualified according to law, maketh said that in the War of the Revolution, he was drafted in the year 1780 to serve a three months term in the militia in the United States Service in Col. Saunder's regiment and is the town was in Gates' defeat in North Carolina and part of this law the affect was as private soldier under Captain John Ray of Orange County. He was [art of the company under Captain Saunders of Coral County. This applicant remembers that said Captain John Ray of Orange County did as Captain of a Company of militia claim all aforesaid them makes clear, it was this applicant and soldier deceased.
Sworn and subscribed to the date first and within before me,
Young Oldham, Pean..
and James Pollar,
sects,
County Clerk James Pollar, pensioner in state of North Carolina of such comptroller.
20 November, 1844, Young Oldham, Clerk.
Page 26

[handwritten letter]
(9)
State of North Carolina
I, Nathan A Stedman, Clerk of the Court of please and claims superior for Chotham County, hereby certify that Young Oldham is a magistrate as above, and that the foregoing signatures pruporting to be his are genuine.
In testimony whereof I have herunto applied my seal of office and subscribed my name this 23rd day of November in the year of 1844.
N. A. Stedman CCC
Page 27

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh, NC
Compt Office
Dr. Craig.
D. Sir,
Your letter has been received giving me information of the loss of a Certificate furnished you in the Jno. Ray case and you request a duplicate from me which I have made on this Sheet and enclose to you -you ask my opinion If I would not infer from the payments made to Jno Ray that he must have served and recived pay as a commissioned officer the Books in no instance show this fact, but he must have served a long time as a private to have drawn this amount for Services or he must have boarn a commission. The latter I would Suppose most likely. 
I am very Respectfully Your Obt Sert
Wm F Collins
Page 28

[handwritten letter]					Raleigh N. C. Compt Office
I William F Collins Comptroller of Public Accounts in and for the State of North Carolina do hereby certify that the name of John Ray appeals of record in this office as having had the following Specie certificate issued in his favor for Military Service, viz One for five pounds ten Shillings (£5.10) see Book [illegible] page 6 also another for eighteen pounds (£18) see same book page 6 also another for forty seven pound Six Shillings (£47.6) see same Book page 6 also another for sixty Eight pounds fourteen shillings (£48, 14) see same Book and same page also another for six pounds Seven Shillings (£6.7), see same Book page 7. Also another for Eleven pounds Five Shillings (£11.5) see same book page 34 also another for Nine pounds, (£9) See Book No 2 page 45. Also another for six pounds six Shillings See Book G No 6 page 8 also another for Forty Sun pounds six Shillings and six pounds (£47.6), see Book No 14  page 142. also another for two pounds Six Shillings (£2.6) see Book F No 2 page 60 also Another payment made in depreciated Currency equal to species of four pounds Eighteen Shillings and Ten pence (£4.18.10) see Book A. page 54 No 11. Amounting in all payments to Two
Page 29

[handwritten]
Hundred and Twenty-Seven Pounds, eight Shillings, and Ten pence (£227.8.10) given under my hand and seal this 14th day of February 1849.
William F. Collins. Compt
Page 30

John Ray
Page 31

[handwritten letter]
Raliegh NC	Octr 11 1861
Dear Sir I should have attended to the demands of your letter ere this but my official duties had been pressing and consequently have had to delay enclosed you have a certificate in the Case of Col Philip Taylor, there are I belive some other payment made to Philp Taylor but the grade is not given in the case of Wm Moore there are [illegible] payments made to this name so many that it would seem there were more than one of This name. In the case of John Ray I think his name does not appear as Captain in any of the Records have examined - I have recently discovered filed away in one of the decks of this department, many of the original [illegible] from which these Books are made and I see in some instances the grade is given on the original Indent has not in the Books which purport to be a Copy & I had the time to may
Page 32

[handwritten]
examination of these Indents posibly I might find the grade given but it is a endless task, such as I could not undertake without ample compensation for the service – I would be glad If you could come down some time and let me shew you what is to be done – will there be any fine young Heifer Cow to be sold at your Sale I see advertised, I should like to purchase some 20 if they sell 
very low, but would not like to go up for this purpose alone or an uncertainty, Can you buy them for me and let me send up after them, I do not wish to purchase unless they sell very low – let me hear from you at your conviniance
I am very respectfully truly Your obt Sert Wm Collins
Page 33

[handwritten letter]
Pension Office the August 16th, 1847 Sir I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your communication of the 29th attime accompanied by letter of the Rev. A.G. Hughes and the duplicate certificate of the Comptroller of North Carolina in support of the claim of Agness Freeland formerly widow of John Ray The credibility of the witnesses referred to in Mrs Hughes letter has been questioned; but their testimony is not sufficient under the rules to which I am compelled to adhere, to establish the rank of Commissioned Officer, and the certificate of the Comptroller being a duplicate only of One heretofore filed afford no additional evidence either of Ray’s service or rank. I regret that it is not in my power to grant Mrs Freeland a pension; but the evidence now on file is not sufficient to authorize the admission of her claim. The records of the County in which Ray lived, may possibly afford some evidence of his appointment to the command of a Company in the Militia
Page 34

[handwritten]
[top right side of page]
I have the honor to be With great respect Your Obt. Servt
J L Edwards

[bottom left hand side of page]
Hon. George E. Badger Raliegh, North Carolina
Page 35

[handwritten letter]
Ruffins Hills N. Carolina
May 21st, 1847
Sir,
Near this close of the late Session of Congress, Mrs. Agness Freeland of New Hope in this County, formerly widow of Captain John Ray, handed me some additional evidence which she had provided in her pension claim and at her request forwarded it to Care of Hon. George E. Badger with whom her late husband W. Freeland was acquainted while WB resided in Hillsboro.
As the evidence had been procured the widow informes me with no little difficulty she was apprehensive that her papers might not have reached Washington City before the Judge left but am pleased to learn that they had come to hand before the session closed.
As soon as a session is had on her claim (as she requests) please enclose to Hon: G. E. Badger, at Raliegh NC
I am. Ser. very respects. you Ob. Servt.
James A. Craig
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City,
Page 36

[handwritten letter]
Senate Chambers 18 Feb – 1847
[illegible] I recount the accompanying packet without any letter advising what I was to do with it – I [illegible] can know as I relate, to a pension it falls [illegible] within you jurisdiction – 
I by your will give it an early examination and let us know the results
with respect I am your obt. Servt
Geo. E Badger
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Page 37

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh May 14 - 1847 
My dear sir I remember receiving certain papers from you in relation to a claim for a pension which were immediately sent to this Pension office I do not now recollect whether I received any answer from Mr. Edwards, but if I did, it was sent at once sent to you under my frank. I am unable to say whether the [illegible] have been deemed satisficatory [illegible] I write this day to Mr E. on the subject and will let you know from me. [illegible] [illegible] as I [illegible] his reply 
very respectfully your most obt set Geo. E. Badger

James A Craig Esq
Ruffins Mills
I agree cheerfully to your proposal as to this record [illegible]
Page 38

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh N.C.	Compt Office
I William F Collins Comptroller of Public Accts in and for the State of North Carolina do hereby certify that I believe that the Militia Records of my office are incomplete and very deficeint failing in many of the records to give the proper discrimination in the payments made to a private and an officer given under my hand and seal this 15 day July 1847 
Wm F. Collins Compt
Page 39

[handwritten letter]
Ruffins Mills N Carolina 5 Sept 1815
Sir, In [illegible] with the [illegible] [illegible] [illegible] to [illegible] [rest of letter is illegible]
Page 40

[illegible]
Page 41

[handwritten letter]
Comptroller's Office, Raleigh N.C 
I William F. Collins Comptroller of Public Accounts do hereby certify, that it appears of record in my Office, that John Ray had the following certificates issued in his favour for military service, viz; one for ten pounds, four shillings (£10.45) found in Book No 11, page 28; an other for eighten pounds (£18) found in "Book of accounts of the Claims passed by the Auditors of the District of Wilmington”, under the head of Militia; another for forty seven pounds, six shillings (£47, 6s) found in the same Book, and on the same page; another for sixty eight pounds fourteen shillings, (£68,14s) found in the same Book on the same page; another for six pounds, seven shillings (£6.7s) found in same Book, on seventeenth page; another for eleven pounds, five shillings, (£11.5s) 17th page, same Book: another for two pounds sixteen shillings (£2.16s) found in Book F No 2; another in the same Book for two ^one hundred and seventy seven pounds, twelve shillings and four pence ($177.12s.4a); another for six pounds, six shillings (£6.6s), found in Book G. No 16 page 8th: another for nine pounds, six shillings (£9.6s) found in Book 8-page 42; another for nine pounds (£9). Book No 2 page 45: another for ten pounds, four shillings, (£10.4s) found in Book A No 11-- page 28: and another, a currency certificate for three thousand, nine hundred and fifty
Page 42

[handwritten letter]
four pounds, (£3954), and found in Book A. No 11 page 54: another for five pounds, ten shillings (£5.10s) in Book No 24, page 47: another in the same Book, on the 48th page, for sixty eight pounds, fourteen shillings (£68.14s) another for nine pounds (£9) in the same Book page 82; another for forty seven pounds, six shillings (£47.6s) in Book No 14. page 142. given under my hand and seal this day March 1845 Wm Collins Compt
Page 43

[handwritten letter]
Ruffins Mills, N. Carolina 28 March, 1845. 
Sir, 
By last weeks mail. I forwarded you the declaration of Mrs Agness Freeland whose former husband was Capt John Ray since forwarding the declaration, I have received from the Comptroller, Mr Collins the enclosed certificate selling for the payments made to John Ray for Military Services. All of which I hope will reach you safely, and prove satisfactory. I remain, Sir, Very Respectfully, yr ob Servt 
James A. Craig J L Edwards Esqr Comm of Pensions, Washington City, D.C
Page 44

[handwritten envelope]
To James L. Edwards Esq Comm of Pensions Washington D. C. To the care of Do James A. Craig
Page 45

[handwritten letter]
Mason Hall. N. Carolina July 7th 1847 
I have been informed that Mrs Agness Freeland of New Hope has filed a Declaration in your office, for a Pension, for the Revolutionary sevices of her former husband, John Ray. & that a rule of your office has not as yet in complied with in the case, viz: that the good standing of those who have borne witness in his case has not as yet duly entitles to 
I understand the witnesses in Mrs Freelands case (with whom I am acquainted) one Genl Joseph Allison, Col John Stockard, William Murray Eqr, John Faucett, Joseph White & Rev/ James Rowlin of Caswell County. It is with much pleasure, sir, that I certify to you that I am, I have been for years, personally acquainted with each of the above named persons, & that they are all gentlemen of high respectability, & their statements entitled to full credit & belief. Mrs Freeland is an aged respectable lady & member of New Hope Church, under the care of Professor Phillips, of the University of N.C. who, I understand , has also certified to Mrs Peeland's good standing 
Very respectfully yours [illegible]
A.G. Huges Pastor of Hartfield & [illegible] ch
Comm of Pensions
Washington City D. C.
Page 46

[handwritten form]
11770
Agness Freeland N. C Act 7 July 38 former widow of John Ray
Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D. C.
15
admitted Cap. [illegible] $ 120
per anl from 4 March 1836 to 4 March 1841
and from 4 March 1843 to 4 March 1848
Jas A. Craig Es
Ruffins Mills N. C.
Page 47

[handwritten letter]
Ruffins Mills March 21st 1845
Sir I herewith enclose you the Declaration of Mrs Agness Freeland of Garge County, whose former husband John Ray was a Captain in the militia in the army of the Revolution. any communication on this claim can address to Col Sylvester, Washington City I remain, Sir Ving up or Senr James L. Edwards Esq. Washington City C. --- James A. Craig
Page 48

[handwritten letter]
Pension Office May 13th 1845 
Sir The papers in the case of Mrs Agnes Freeland have been examined and filed There are no facts stated in the testimony furnished which would go to identify the first husband of claimant as the John Ray who is said to have served during the War. The statement of William Murray did it come in the form of a sworn affidavit might assist in proving a part of the service claimed for It is herewith returned. The proof of the marriage is satisfactory
I am, Very Respectfully, Your Obt Servant J L Edwards
H. H. Sylvester, Esq Present
Page 49

[handwritten letter]
Sir Since my last communication with the Pension office upon the following case, to wit- Agnes Freeland, widow of Captain Ray of N.C., Mrs Martha Alexander & Elizabeth Wilson of Pitt County N.C. additional widows has been transmitted to the office In the case of Martha Alexander, the origi al pay roll of Col. Follin heaving the name of Joseph Alexander the Declarants husband has been furnished. In addition we have a certificate from the Comptroller (in whose custody are the records of the N. C. Militia army) showing payment of a sum sufficiently large to authorize a pension. The proof of age is complete may I ask the attention of the office to these cases:
Col J.L. Edwards   Most respectfully Your obt – T.L. Smith
14th Feb. ‘48
Page 50

[handwritten letter]
Washington D.C. 22 June 1846
Sir, We have the honor to enclose a letter from the Comptroller of N Carolina in relation to his certificate in the case of Agnes Freeland to which in by your attention.
We are very resps you obt serts
T L & A Tho Smith
J L Edwards Esq. Comm of Pensions
Page 51

[handwritten letter]
Washington Oct. 13 1857 
Hon James E Heath 
Sir Mrs Freeland of North Carolina receives $120 per annum, under act of 7th July 1838, for six months of her decd husband Capt John Rays revy services How or upon grounds, Your predecessor could have stopped at 6 months I cannot imagine, after a full examination of all the papers on file in her case John Dooley & James Dole an revolutionary pensioner.
Page 52

[handwritten letter]
swear positively that they served under said Capt Ray, one tour of five Months, & another tour of three half Months, making eight & a half months. Nor must this claim be permitted to rest here, by a long ways The amount of payments made to Capt John Ray, to use the Comptroller Genl of North Carolina's own language, "is sufficient to establish his claim as Capt of the highest amount.” meaning not less than two years service, which said payments show said Ray to have performed The first above named
Page 53

[handwritten letter]
3 Witness believes upon his said oath, that said "Ray was in almost continuous service throughout the Whole of the War.” & such Was the honor generally allowed to him as shown by a mass of traditionary evidence, rarely to be met With in support of any Claim. The evidence goes to show & does show as clearly as it is possible to establish any such fact, that there was no other John Ray in N. Car. during the revolution, & that the comptrs certificate could relate to none other, but our Capt Jno Ray
Page 54

[handwritten letter]
4 Have there been any other John Ray, it is morally certain, that the claim would ere this, have been made by him or his representatives And to suppose, as your predecessor has done, that the payments made to John Ray, do not relate to our Capt. John Ray, at absolu te variance with all the reasonable probabilities of the case, & the testimony of all the Witnesses some dozen or two. That you will be irresistibly led upon a reexamination of the case, to allow an increase from $120-- to $480. per annum, I cannot permit myself
Page 55

[handwritten letter]
5 to doubt for a moment your attention to this case as early as practicable, is most respectfully solicited. I have the honor to 1 be your obt sevt M Thompson
Page 56

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh July 29. 1847 
Sir I now send you some additional proof in support of the claim of Agnes Freeland-- These consist of the certificates of the Comptroller of the State and a certificate of Rev W Hughes as to the character of the witnesses whose testimony has been heretofore submitted to you 
In calling your attention to these papers will you allow me to offer one of the remarks in support of M Freeland claim? The only difficulty as I understand, refer to the rank of Ray her first husband-- that he served is fully proved, but the grade which he served does not sufficently appear - In your note to me of the 3rd of March you say, “By our establishment rule [illegible] [illegible] [illegible] is in [illegible] to established this because of a Commissioned officer grade that can be established by [illegible] Commission or by records documented” This rule considered as a general one is I believe universally adopted by all [illegible] - but having established as a guard against injection, and of justice [illegible] to make the exceptions that the necessities of mankind and the entering transition of business and the [illegible] to which human affairs are [illegible], and without which exceptions the rule duly would be [illegible] [illegible] But know this may be, you will observe that the case does [illegible] now rest upon  [illegible][illegible] to Mr. Rays grade in the service. By the Comptroller
Page 57

[handwritten letter]
certificates it appears, that the record in his office are imperfect and do not show expressly the rank of the persons to whom payments for military were under that payments were made to Ray for his tours of service to the amount and total of £323 - and have it [illegible] appears that he did not serve as a private or non comissioned officer - the proof furnished by these payments is of the [illegible] kind. Government does and [illegible], I believe can pay a private what is due only to a captain Certainly during the revolution [illegible] did and [illegible] than was due to her [illegible] - by my call upon her [illegible] with seal my insufficient means to meet them, we may be assumed as certain as of truly commissions were pendant, that the person to whom she gave a captain pay was entitled to by his rank - I beg you to recollect that in [illegible] he were engaged in fighting the public enemy and that this case is in all reports different persons at this day – And in this case the proof is sent under the circumstances can also be captains – [illegible][illegible][illebgible] by -the [illegible] by the public and the testemony of the witnesses all united, leave our doubts in the mind that Ray served as a Captain – and it would seem on act of gear cruelty to this poor old woman to repeal her claim thus supported, because
Page 58

[handwritten letter]
after the lapse of seventy years she [illegible] [illegible] in her husbands commission. Never is our doubt that in full her claim is a just one If so, it ought to be allowed and I am sure you will be [illegible] to allow it, unless [illegible] by an unyielding [illegible] – I think the rule does and states this way – and should it be supposed to enforce in a rejection of this claim, I must [illegible] it as having failed of its purpose, the prevention of fraud – Fraud is always formal in its [illegible] it anticipates and provides against [illegible] [illegible] and [illegible] the real [illegible] of its character by seeming [illegible] and abundant external solem it is -Lord Mansfield said that he had never known a forged or fraudulent will, which was [illegible] in this [illegible] of [illegible] and signing required by the [illegible] [illegible] – I do hope this, that with this addition proof you may by able in your judgement, to allow this claim, and this make glad the heart of a vunerable woman, who in her declining years needs public [illegible] and whose husband in his youth [illegible] it for her – with great respect I am very humbly your obt Sevt Geo. E. Badger
J. L. Edwards Esq Pension agent -
Page 59

[handwritten letter]
Ruffins Mills N Carolina January 22 1846 Sir I have at length succeeded in getting additional & expla atory evidence in the Claim for Pension of Mrs Agness Freeland widow of Captain John Ray The Comptroller^ certificate shows, that his^ records but rarely states what the grade of office was.  only states the sum paid. Ston: James S Smith of Hillsboro and Proff, Philipps of the University of North Carolina have certified to the good standing of the Declarant, Mrs Freeland. All of which is respectfully submitted. Any communication on this claim, please address to T L & A Thos. Smith Esqr of Washington City I am, Sir, Very Resp. yo:observt James A. Craig
JL Edwards Esq = Comm. of Pensions  Washington City, D. C.
Page 60

[handwritten letter]
Washington D C 27 March 1846 Sir We have been employed to prosecute the claim of Mrs Agnes Freeland formerly widow of Capt John Ray of N Carolina, for a pension The proofs on file are believed to be complete, both in regard to service and marriage; and we will be greatly obliged by being informed of your decision in the matter in order that if any objection still exists we may lose no time in endeavouring to remove it J L Edwards Esq Comm of Pension We are very respectfully your all yet T & A Tho Smith
JL Edwards Esq Comm of Pensions
Page 61

[handwritten letter]
Ruffins Mills 30 April 1847. My Dear Sir: Some time in the latter part of February Mrs Freeland of New Hope in this County from some additional evidence in her claim for a pension and at her request enclosed the documents to your care. begging you would have the kindness to Call for the Commissioner of pensions, & see if you could effect a compromise of her claim. which has been some time before the Commd. Mrs Freeland claims for the revolutionary services of her first or former husband John Ray^ who was a Captain of Militia Rev. Army- Mr. Collins the Comptroller who has charge of these documents. States that he has found the home of John Ray on his Rolls. But that they (the ‘records’) do not in this case shew the grade in which lay served nor do there old records except in a few cases (says the Comptroller) give the grade of the officer they shew a sum^ paid to John Ray sufficiently large to entitle the widow to Captain's pay. The offiant proved that he served in Captain John Rays Co (the identical, John Ray) in 1780. Col John Slackord, General Allison, William Murray Esq. William Mr John Fancett, (Elder) & other highly respecable Citizens of Orange, have made affidavit, that they knew day & have heard him speak of his services in the Rev. Army & believe that he served Pray did the papers reach Washington City before you left the [illegible] T L & A Tho: Smith on my Agent at Washington City
Page 62

[handwritten letter]
to whom this case had been originally forwarded. I trust the proofs in this claim, now before the Commissioner of pensions will suffice to entitle the widow to full pay. Mrs Freeland is a very aged and worthy old lady the is a member of Proff: Philipps Church at New Hope. the professor wrote the Comm a very handsome letter in behalf of the Claimant Mrs Freeland wrote me last week to know if any answer as yet had been recd from her claim. I have none since the supplemental proof was forwarded. Will you have the kindness sir to let the widow through me hear when a decision is had in her case? I am Sir very Respectfully Jo: Obt St James A. Craig Hon Geo. E. Badger Raleigh N.C
Page 63

[handwritten letter]
Ruffins Mills N. Carolina	April [illegible] 1849
Sir In the case of Mrs Agness Freeland of New Hope, Orange County, formerly widow of the late Col John Ray – the last communication I had the honor of receiving from the Pension office, Suggested that it was possible that some of the record of this County might give some information as to John Ray’s appointment of Captain in the Militia army of the Revolution. Now having custody of the public record they promptly made diligent Search & certified in due form, that, they Could find no Record of any appointments of officers in the militia, army of the Revolution. Here affidavits were forwarded to the pension office in February last, through Hon. Mr. Badger. All the records pertaining to the Revolutionary Service of the North Carolina are in the custody of the Comptroller of N. C. and there consist of only “Pay Rolls” In this Case of Mrs Freeland, Mr. Collins the Comptroller has certified that the records of his office There that £227.8s.10d. [illegible] was paid to John Ray for the Military Service without giving the grade in which Ray served. On of these payments was £68.16s and Two others each £ 47.6s each.
Page 64

[handwritten letter]
In one of his certificates the Comptroller has certified he would infer from the payments made Ray that he served as a Commissioned officer. (side this file) John Stockard Esq: memb of our State Legislature Genl Jos: Allison, Clerk of Orange County Court, Rev James Bowlin, William Murry Esq. William Ward Esq & some other have made affidavit. that they were personally acquainted with said John Ray & understand & believe that he did serve the United States in army of the Revolution.
 James Dollar of Chatham County, (but formerly a resident of Orange County), made a declaration for pension in 1837 and stated that he served part of a tour of militia in 1780 in Capt John Rays Co (Mrs Freelands last husband was at this time was still living)
J Dalley of this of this County (Orange) Together was an United States pensioner, testified that in Two tours of duly he served the United States in the Rev. War. John Ray was in the United Service in said tours and had^ in each tour, command of a Company of Militia. William Cumming, now of  Greensboro Guilford Co but formerly a resident of Orange County was ‘[illegible] & A. q. M ‘ in Genl Gates army in 1780. and has recollection of seeing the aforesaid John Ray in said Compaign in command of a Company of Militia his affidavit has been forwarded - The characters of each of the above affiants have been certified to as of good standing at different times, by A. James S. Smith, Hon. William Montgomery, Judge Dick & Others-
Page 65

[handwritten letter]
And Lastly the Shff of Orange the Clerk of the Superior & --- County Court of Orange, have officially certified as to their being no documents showing the appointment of any officer in militia of Orange war of the Rev It is possible Capt Ray had in his possession in his life time. Papers pertaining to his Military Service - but all his papers passed into the hands of his ex One of whom has been many years dead and the other^moved to the West. So the family now can find no papers whatever touching his military Service - A Mrs Freland formerly Mrs Ray begs that the Comm of Pensions will see her claim. and allow her such annuity as he may deem the evidence furnished and the Equity of her case may justify she will abide the decision. I beg this commt. will view the Claim I am Sir very Respectfully, your ob. Servt. James A. Craig
James L Edwards Esq Commr of Pensions, Washington City
Page 66

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh May 14 –‘47
Dear Sir Have the goodness to examine the accompanying letter of Jeames A. Craig Eq and give me the information necessary to answer the inquiry it contains as to this sufficiancy of Mrs. Freeland’s purposes to suffice her claim to a pension – very respectfully your obed. sevt Geo E. Badger James L Edwards Esq Comr. of Pensions Washington DC
Page 67

[handwritten letter]
Washington Apl 1st 1846 Dear Sir We received to day from the Comr of Pensions the following communication in the case of Mrs Freeland The rule of this Department requiring the grade of commissions officers to be established by documentary or record proof had in any case been waived or assued. No proof of that grade has been addressed, and the parole testimony of one witness sets forth service under her husband as a Capt during a part of a tour and that of others, that he has the reputation of having served as capt of Militia in the Revolution. These furnish no satisfactory data for adjusting & retable Stipend. The Comprotler certificate is relied upon, but if it refers to pay of military service it is conclusive from the number of tours, that it embraces several John Rays. It would be most extraordinary of the Captain of Militia company should be called out fifteen times in the course of three years; and yet that certificate shows fifteen payments to that name, amounting to the aggregate of $1223[illegible] the character of this lady is duly appreciated, but the allowance of pension must depend upon definite data which the rules of this office require the claimant to furnish your own good judgment will preserve the proper course for you to pursue J. A. Craig Es Ruffins Mills NC  With much respect Your obt Sevts T. L. & A. Tho Smith
Page 68

[handwritten letter] 
Agnes Freeland aged 80.^ married in ’84 wd of Capt Jno Ray who died 1816  served 5 mos. time not stated as capt of orang[illegible] Militia under Col Lacke and Genl Rutherford served for 3 mo in 1780 when he was in Gates defeat served with Lee's Legion in 81. 1st of Sept following was in command of his Compt when the town of Hillsboro was Captured & by Col. Farming, under Col. Finnin and Genl Butler pursued the tory forces to Wilmington remained in service during this tour it middle of Decr following. In 1782 under Col. Neal & Genl Butler served a 3 mos. tour to the south, on the Pee dee, laudy Creek, & he served other tours which she does not recollect- She was married to Freeland in 1826. he died 4 [illegible]Dec. ‘43-Family Register Copy of Bond for Marriage license Jno. Dayly has heard capt. Jno Ray talk of his service & Wm Murray J. P. do. . James Pollar a pensioner^ aged 90 was in the defeat of Genl Gates Served part of the tour under Capt Ray Knows Capt Ray served 3 was at that time Joseph Freeland aged 79 - thinks the marriage took place about 1784. Jno. Ray and about 28 years ago
Page 69

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh N. C.  July 19th 1847 Compt Office 
I William F Collins Comptroller of Public Accounts in and for the State of North Carolina do hereby certify that the name of John Ray appears of Record in my office as having had the following Specie certificate and in his favor for Military Service [illegible] One for Five pounds Ten Shillings (£5.10) see Book No 4 page 1, also another for Eighteen Pounds See same book page 6 also another for Forty Seven pounds^ six shillings (£47116. see same Book and page same Book also another for Sixty Eight pounds, Fourteen shillings (£68.14) see same Book and same page also another for Six pounds Seven Shillings (£6.7) see same book page 7. Also another for eleven pounds five shillings (£11.5) same Book page 34. Also another for Nine Pounds six Book No 2 page 45. Also another for Six pounds six Shillings (£6.6) See Book G. No 6 page 8 als. Another for forty Seven pounds Six Shillings (£47.6) See Book No 14 page 142. also another for Two Pounds Sixteen Shillings (£2.16) See Book F No 2
Page 70

[handwritten letter]
page 40 – also it appears of record that the following payments were made to J. Ray (Viz) One for Nine Pounds six Shillings (£9.61) see Book No 8 page 42 also another for Sixty Eight pounds fourteen Shillings (£68.14) see Book No 24 page 48 also another for Nine pounds (£9) see same Book page 82 Also another for your pounds ten shillings (£4.10) see Book G No 18 page 8 also another in same Book page 54 for Four pound four shillings (£4.4) It also appears that a curring certificate was issued in favor of John Ray for three thousand - Nine Hundred and fifty four pounds depreciation 800 for One. See Book A No 11 page 54. Given under my hand and seal this 19th day July 1847 Wm Collins Compt
Page 71

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh apl – 9-9-1849
DSir I [illegible] the [illegible]in [illegible] of additional testimony which you [illegible] & transcribed it to this Pension Office – I have heard nothing on this [illegible] your respectfully Geo. E. Badger DC Craig
Page 72

[handwritten envelope]
[perpendicular on page] Agness Freeland [underlined] [circular stamp underneath]
[horizontal on page] James A. Craig Ruffins Mills N. C. -
Page 73

[handwritten letter]
New Hope Oct 7th 1848. James A. Craig Dear Sir I embrace this oppertunity of addressing you a few lines relative to my pension claim, I have not heard any thing since March when you forwarded (as I understood) the last additional evidence, which was that the Books at Raleigh showed that my Husband served and the amount paid Justify, the belief, that he was a com missioned officer. Men who served under him in the army and with him have made oath that he was Capt of Militia in the service, and other gentlemen of the first standing in the^ County also made oath, that they were acquainted with him be heard him say, that he served in the army, and that was so understood and believed, by all his acquaintance If this evidence will not satisfy the commissioner I do not know of any stranger. I hope you will write on and assertain whether the commissioner has allowed my claim, if not, I wish an appeal to be made to the Hon. Secretary of War As soon as you can hear from my claim be so good as to let me know what I may depend upon witness Yours with respect Nancy [her X mark] Freeland Charles F Freeland Jno. R. Faucett
Page 74

[handwritten letter]
N.B. At the suggestion of my grand son, ^through whose kindness I have written this letter you can say that Agness [crossed out word] was the name by which I was known in my younger days but custom has changed it to Nancy [crossed out word] but whether it be Agness or Nancy it always represents the same person Nancy Freeland by Jno R Faucett
Page 75

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh March 19th 1845 Dear Sir From the list of names forwarded by yourself to have an examination made from the Militia payments of this office I have succeded in finding up to this time the following names Mr Jno McBride David Justice William Dunn N. Keer W. Wilson David White Jno Ray Jno [illegible] William Holder J Donnell Joseph [illegible] and Joseph Alexander these are all claim cases and the certificates are made out and will be forwarded you as soon as my fee of Five Dollars in each case is remitted, you can send me a check on the Bank of Hillsborough, the case of Jno Ray has been greatly enlarged establishing his claim as Captain of the highest [illegible] besides these cases you recollect you owed me for two cases before sent you several the other names have been found but the amts are small, I shall not make a certificate in there can until further search is made, without including these cases you will now owe
Page 76

[handwritten letter]
me for Fourteen cases including the Two which I have reissued and enlarged I am incurring a daily expense in having these Books alphabetted is one reason why I require you To remit the fee in allowance the amt due up to this time is Seventy five Dollars including the cases for which search has been made and exclusive of the cases reissued. I am very respectfully your obt Sevt. Wm. F. Collins
Page 77

[handwritten envelope]
[perpendicular on page] John Ray [underlined, illegible circular stamp underneath]
[horizontal on page] James A. Craig P. M. Ruffins Mills Orange County N. C.
Page 78

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh N C Compt Office I William F Collins Comptroller of Public Accounts in and for the State of North Carolina do hereby certify that I have examined minutely the payments as exhibited on the Military Books of this office, and have not been able to find any payment made to John Ray as Captain the name of John Ray appears frequently as having had certificates issued to him for Military service, but in no instance do they case for his title, these Records Very rarely give the title or Grade of officer given under my hand and seal, this 19 day number, 1845. Wm F.Collins Compt
Page 79

[handwritten letter]
University of N.C. Chapel Hill 12th January 1846 
My dear Sir Yours of the 9th has just reached me, and as it seems an early notice, I hasten to reply to Agnes Freeland is, as you suppose a member of the Presbyterian church at New Hope, where I have regularly preached for the last nine years. My situation here as Professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy, has, in a great measure, precluded me from that intimate acquaintance with the people amongst whom I have labored, which it is able that a Minister should possess. There are a few, however with home I have had many private interviews, either on account of their proximity to the church their residences being situated directly in my road, or account of some afflictive dispensation. The last two have afforded me mon familiar acquaintance with Mr & Mrs Freeland then, it is table I should have otherwise obtained I have known in the Freeland, between 15 and 20 years, & I can honestly affirm, that I believe she is a “mother in Israel”. Her conduct as a member of society, & her conversation as a communicant of my church, have been & unimpeachable She is as far as man can judge, an orderly, consistent, humble christian, one whose conversation is such as becomes the gospel of Christ. She is poor, & the effort you are making in her behalf deserves success, for which I heartily pray & that you also may at last hear the Master^say “for as much as you and it unto one of these you did it unto me” I am Dear Sir with great respect James Phillips James A. Craig Esqr
Page 80

[handwritten envelope]    5
James A. Craig Esqr. Ruffins Mills Orange Cy N. C.
Page 81

[handwritten envelope]
Agness Freeland Orange County N. C. (Supplemental Proof) 3 [bottom of page] Care of Honorable G. E. Badger U. S. Senate Washington City D. C.
Page 82

[handwritten letter]
North Carolina I, Joseph Allison Clerk of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions for Orange County do hereby certify that I was Colonel for Several at years of the 2nd Orange Regiment of Militia that I now hold the office of County Court & have no knowledged on any records whatever in the County, tending to shew the appointments or service of any officers or soldiers of the army of the Revolution - and therefore fully concur with the foregoing statements made by the Clerk of the Superior Court and high sheriff of the County. This statement I make at the instance of the widow of the late John Ray - and take pleasure in further stating that I was well acquainted with with the aforesaid John Ray and has understood & believe that he was in the United States, service during the war of the Revolution In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name & affixed my seal of Office at Hillsboro this 1st Decr AD 1848 J Allison C.C.C.
Page 83

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina Orange County} I Richard M Jones Clerk of Orange County superior Court, do hereby certify that I know of no record in this office or in that of any other office in the County showing the appointment or service of any privates or officers in the militia in the army of the Revolution In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this the 30th day of November 1848 Richard M Jones 
State of North Carolina Orange County} I James C Turrentine do hereby certify that I am now and have been for the last sixteen years high Sheriff of the aforesaid County of Orange, and do hereby certify that I am acquainted with the publick records of the County, and have never seen or heard of any in said County that go to show the appointment or service of any officers or private of the revolutionary army. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this the 30th November 1848. James C. Turrentine Sheriff
Page 84

[handwritten]
Agness Freeland Act 7 July 1838 orange County N.C.
5  Return [illegible] made to James A. Craig Esq. Ruffins Mills N.C.
Page 85

[handwritten letter]
[1] (6)
Plesant Hill, Orange Co N. Ca. 28 February 1845.
To the Com: of Pensions. Washington City. – Sir: I have been requested to State what I have understood of ^the Revolutionary Services of the late Captain John Ray of the aforesaid County. 
I was well acquainted with said Captain Ray for 15 or 20 years before his death, living only about four miles from him-- said John Ray was always reputed and believed in the neighbourhood where he lived to have been in the United States Service in the Revolutionary^ War. In conversation with said John Ray, Captain I have heard him speak of his services in the army, and of a narrow es cape he had from being made prisoner in the fall of 1781, by Col Fanning's troops, when they captured the Town of Hillsboro in the aforesaid County: Capt John Ray I have heard make the following statement to wit: When Hillsboro was surprised and captured by Col Fanning as above stated. He was then in Command of a Company of Mounted Militia men, and when they approached Hillsboro and saw the strength of the enemy He, Captain Ray remarked to his Company, “Men this looks like the height of folly to make an attack upon such a large hoop of the enemy. Some one of the company remarked. “Are you a Coward?” “If you think I am a Coward, Try Me.-- and gave orders to attack^the enemy at full
Page 86

[handwritten letter]
[2] (6)
speed – His company were defeated, some made prisoners & himself narrowly escaped- Captain Ray. was reputed a good Soldier in the war of the Revolution – and was a worthy Citizen for a great many ^ years thereafter: He died about the year of 1816. leaving a widow Agness him surving who afterwards ^married one [illegible] Freeland in the aforesaid [inkblot] , who is now died - & that widow Agness has not since married. but remains the widow of Said John Freeland. William Murray [illegible] Sworn to & Subscribed before me on the 11 day of June 1845} [illegible] Tate J Peace I certify that the deponent William Murray Esquire is a man of truth & respec [illegible] Tate J. Peace
Page 87

[handwritten letter]
[3] State of North Carolina County of Orange } I John Stockord a resident of the County aforesaid aged [blank] years, do hereby certify that I was well acquainted with the late Captain John Ray of said County, whose widow Agness Freeland, I understand is now applying for a pension-- I have frequently heard said John Ray State that he was in the United States Service in the war of the Revolution, and speak of occurences in the army. I have no doubt but he served the United States in the war of the Revolution Sworn to & Subscribed this the 28 day of May 1845, before me} JnoStockard H. Parker J. P. I certify that the offisal John Stockford is a man of truth & respectability H. Parker J P. 
State of North Carolina Orange County} I John Faucett Senior, a resident of the aforesaid County, aged 62 years, do hereby certify that I was intimately acquainted with the late Captain John Ray of the aforesaid County whose widow Agness Freeland I understand is now applying for a pension for the Revolutionary services of her for husband the said John Ray: [illegible] brother George Faucett married a daughter of said Ray. I was frequently in his company and house heard him speak of a narrow escape from^ falling into the hands of the British & Tories when they had possession of the Town of Hillsboro when captured by Col Fanning - I have always understood that said Captain John Ray Served the United States in the war of the Revolution. and further saith not} H. Parker J.P.} John Faucett I certify that that the offiant John Farnett is a man of truth & respectability.May 28 1845 H. Parker J.P.
Page 88

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina Orange County } On this the 29 day of May 1845 personally appeared before the undersigned one of Justices of the peace in and for said County, Joseph Allison a resident of said County aged 57 years who being first duly sworn according to Law Stateth that he was intimately acquainted with the late Captain John Ray aforesaid and has frequently heard him speak of his services in the army of the Revolution and make no doubt that he served faithfully in the cause of Liberty. J Allison Sworn to and subscried the day & date first above hath before me Step Moore J.Peace} I certify that John personally acquainted with the deponent, General Joseph Allison, and certify that he is a man of truth & respecability. Step Moore J. P.  Step Moon J Peace 
State of North Carolina, County of Orange}On this the 26 day of August 1845 personally appeared before the undersigned one of the Fathers of the peace in & for said County, John Slockard one of the Justices of the Special Court of Orange aforesaid & after being first duly sworn according to Law maketh oath that in addition to what he stated in a former affidavit he made on the 28th day of May last, respecting the Revolutionary service of the late Capt John Ray, (whose widow Agness Freeland the [illegible] is now applying for a pension for the Revolutionary services of her former husband, said Capt Ray: this affiant upon further reflection distinctly recollects that said Captain John Ray told him that he was in the United States service in Gates defeat, and that in the return on that disatrous day he and a few men retreated together, and the road that they returned on was for some miles strown with broken & deserted wagons the affiant was personally acquainted with said Captain Ray, that he was a very worthy citizen, and bore the reputation where he lived of having served in the army of the Revolution and further Saith
Page 89

[handwritten letter]
[5] [illegible] not. Sworn to and subscribed this day and date first above written before me- E.G. Mangum J. P.} Jno. Stockard x I certify that John Stockord Esquire is personally known to me as a man of truth and respectability. E. G. Mangum J. Peace
State of North Carolina Orange County}On this the 26th day of August 1845. personally appeared before me before the undersigned one of the Justices of the peace in and for said County, Charles Jordon, of said County, aged 56 years who being first duly sworn according to Law, State upon his oath that he was personally acquainted with the late Captain John Ray, Decd of the aforesaid County, whose (widow Agness Freeland This affiant understands is now applying for a pension for the Revolutionary services of her former husband, Say Capt Ray) this affiant further state that he has heard said Captain Ray Speak of his serving the United States in the army of the Revolution as Captain of Militia, and that while while in the service was under Col Lee in the spring of 1781, and was in Pyles' defeat. This affiant further states that he has heard some who were Soldiers in the army speaking of serving with or under said Capt Ray, but the affiant cannot now call to recollection any that are now living who stated they had served with said Cape May and believes that all those are now dead whom he has heard speaking [crossed out] of knowing Captain Ray in the Army. said Captain Ray has been dead upwards of 25 years ago and his widow subsequently married a Mr John Freeland whom this affiant understands is deced, and that said Agness has not since married but remains the widow of the aforesaid John Freeland. And further saith not. Sworn and subscribed the day & year first above written before me WW Patterson J. Peace} Charles Jordan I the said Justice do hereby certify that the affiant Charles Jordan is a man of truth & respectability .WW. Pattinson J. Peace
Page 90

[handwritten letter]
[6] State of North Carolina Orange County.} On this the 26th day of April, 1845. per sonally appeared before the undersigned one of the [crossed out] Justices of the Court of pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County Andrew Murdock of said County, who being first duly qualified according to Law maketh oath that he is well acquainted with Mrs Agness Freeland of said County of Orange, who is now, (as this affiant understands) applying for^ a pension for the Revolutionary services of her first husband John Ray. Dec. This affiant states that said John Ray had the reputation in the neighborhood where he lived of serving the United States in the army of the Revolution as Captain of Militia, and that this affiant has never heard it questioned or contradicted but that said John Ray did serve the United States in the army of the Revolution as above set forth. And further saith not Sworn to & subscribed before her the day & year first above written. A.C. Murdock Samuel Lynch J Peace} I the said Justice do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the affiant Andrew Murdock, and that he is a man of with & respectability. – Samuel Lynch J. Peace [handwritten embellishment]
Page 91

[handwritten letter] [7]
State of North Carolina Orange County} on this the 11 day of June 1845. personally appeared before the undersigned one of Justices of the peace in and for said County^ James Bowdin aged 70 years and a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church who certifies that he was well acquainted with the late Captain John Ray of the aforesaid County whose widow^Agness is now apply for a pension for the Revolution any services of said Agness decd husband- this Deponent certifies that he has heard said Captain John Ray say that when[crossed out] he was ordered to and [illegible] Col Lee to Orange County and further that he heard said Captain Ray say he was with Col Lee in Pyles defeat, and that pay told this affiant that when they [illegible] Col Pyles - a certain one of Pyles men cried out [illegible] “Huzza for King George” that he marked this man and that^ he severed said tory's head with his sword in the engagement. said Captain John Ray was a very estimable Citizen an always was reputed a good citizen & to have served the United States in the war of the Revolution and further saith not. Sworn to & Subscribed the day & date first above written, before me James Bowlin Wm Alea JP I certify that I am well acquainted with the deponent James Bowlin on that he is a regular Clergyman in the Methodist Episcopal Church. & a man of good standing and integrity Wm. Alea J.P
Page 92

[handwritten letter] [8] State of North Carolina orange county}
On this the 19 July 1845 personally appeared before the undersigned one of the acting Justices of the peace in and for said County William Ward a resident of said County of Orange, aged 58 years, who being first duly sworn according to Law deposth & saith that he lived [crossed out] Neighbour to, and was well acquainted with the late Captain John Ray of the aforesaid County, this deponent as far back as he can recollect remembers of hearing said John Ray say that as a Captain he served in the Revolutionary war in the Militia, in the United States service, and has frequently heard said John Ray Day that as Captain of a Company of militia, he was with Col Lee in Pyle’s defeat said Captain John Ray died upwards of Twenty five years^ ago and understand that his widow Agness Freeland is now applying for a pension, for the Revolutionary services of said Captain Ray her first husband said Captain Ray was a very worthy Citizen on had the reputation in the neighborhood where he lived of having served in the militia in the army of the Revolution further saith not. Sworn to and subscribed the day and date first above written before me J. W. Shaw J Peace} William [illegible] I certify that the affiant William Ward is a man of hath and respectability. J. W. Shaw J Peace
Page 93

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina I Joseph Allison Clerk of the Court of pleas and quarter Sessions for Orange County hereby certify that John Tate (whose name appears upon the 2nd page of the foregoing supplemental proof in the low of Agness Freeland for a Pension,) is one of the Justices of the Courts of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County of orange. I also certify that Harrison Parker whose name appears upon the 3d page of said foregoing proceedings; and that Stephen Moore whose name as part for the 4th page of said foregoing proceedings-  And that Ellison G. Morgan and William Patterson, whose names appear also, upon the 5th page of said proceedings; And that Lemuel Lynch whose name appears afore the 6th page of said foregoing proceedings, And that William A Lea whose name appears and the 7th page of said foregoing proceedings.- And that John W. Shaw whose name [crossed out] appears upon the 8 page of said foregoing proceedings on also [crossed out] Justices of the Court of pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County of Orange, and that the several signatures thereto purporting to be theirs, are genuine. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed my Seal of office, Subscribed my name at Hillsboro, in the aforesaid County of Orange, on this the 29’ day of August, 1845. J Allison C.C.C. 
Orange County State of N. Carolina}  I Cadwallader Jones Chairman of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid do hereby certify that Joseph Allison is clerk of the said Court & was so at the time of his signing the above certificate under my hand this 29th day of Augt 1845 Cadr. Jones Chair & C
Page 94

[handwritten letter]
I certify that the [‘name of the’ crossed out] person who have signed as witnesses in the case are respectable person & is titled to credit Augt 30th 1865 J S Smith
Page 95

[handwritten letter]
Raleigh N C May 12th 1846 D. J. A. Craig
Dear Sir Your letter enclosing me your Agents letter at Washington upon the subject of Jno Rays claim for Pension has been duly served in the have called my attention to an extract from the Commissioner of Pensions letter in which he states that my Certificate does not shew that the payment made to Jno Ray was for Military Service It is possible I may have neglected to make this statement in the certificate of so and willing to correct it as this name appears upon the record of this office shewing payment, to him for Military Service; as requires [illegible] taken by the Commissioner of Pensions in relation to the no of tours he performed I think he is in error in supposing that each payment was in full for each tour thereby for as many tour as [crossed out] he received payments. The fact is, There are Number of instances on these record, where the Rank and [illegible] of office, appears in full, shewing payment amounting to as low Sums as £7.10s in Currency - how this is to be accounted for I am unable to state. I have given all the proof in the case that the record of my Department will shew
Page 96

[handwritten letter]
I have examined there were again in the case for your satisfaction as I might have overlooked something important in the case and Respectfully Your Obt Sert Wm Collins
Page 97

[handwritten]
Nancy Freeland of North Carolina Pr. of Atty 17 Cole Ex by M. Thompson Atty Sept – 23 -51
Page 98

[handwritten letter]
Power of - Revolutionary Pension Claim 
Know all men by these presents that I, Nancy Freeland widow of Col. John Ray decd and more lately of John Freeland decd of Orange County in the State of North Carolina hereby constitute and appoint M. Thompson my true and lawful agent & Attorney, to prosecute my claim for any amount of Revolutionary Pension or increase of pension that may be due; and I hereby authorize my said Agent to examine all the papers & documents in relation to said claim on file in the Departments at Washington City, or elsewhere to file additional evidence or arguments: and to receive the certificate which may be issued for said claim, which certificate I wish made payable to Thomas Webb Esq. Attorney & Counsellor at Law, Hillsboro North Carolina to appoint one or more substitutes under him for the purposes herein expressed: and to do all things that I might or could do were I personally present. Hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said Attorney and Agent shall lawfully do in the premises Witness my hand and seal this 30th day of August A.D. 1851 Signed & sealed in presence of Nancy [her mark] Freeland [hand drawn seal] Mary Murdock David R. Blackwood
State of North Carolina Orange County} On this 30th day of August A.D. 1851 personally appeared before me, Nancy Freeland above named and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be her act & deed for the purposes therein mentioned David K. Blackwood J.P
Page 99

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina County of Orange} I, Joseph Allison, Clerk of the County of Orange do hereby certify that David K. Blackwood whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing certificate is a Justice of the Peace for this County duly commissioned & sworn In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office this 30th day of August 1851 S. Allison C.C.C
Page 100

[handwritten letter]
Hawfields Decr 24th 1846 In answer to your enquiries I say my acquaintance with John Carrie Lenr commenced in May 1831 some time in the summer or autumn of that year in speaking^ of Revolutionary times he said that Col Lee & his men camped one night on his plantation (in Caswell County) that soon after they had taken up Camp Col John Ray of Orange County came to the camp and informed Col Lee of the movements of the enemy that Ray stayed in the camp that night for the purpose of piloting Lee the next morning that Lee and his men with Ray left Camp as well as I recollect about one oclock in the morning I understood Mr Currie that it was the morning of the same day on which Col. fee defeated Piles on Allowance in this County yours with respect Sam Kerr -
Page 101

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina Orange County} We the undersigned residents of the county aforesaid do hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Mrs Agness Freeland of New Hope in Said County who we understand is applying for a Pension from the United States for the Revolutionary Services of her first husband Captain John Ray. Mrs Freeland is an aged lady and we take pleasure in certifying to her good standing, and jthat her statements in the premises, we believe entitled to full credit and belief. In testimony whereof we have hereunto set our hand & seals on this the 31st day of January in the year of 1846. A.C. Murdock
E. Mitchell Profer in the University of NCa – is acquainted but not well acquainted with Mrs Freeland. I believe her character to be good and her statements worthy of credit. 
CW Johnson is enabled to say from an acquintince of some eighteen or twenty year with Mrs Agness Freeland that her standing and character are good and that her statements are entitled to full credit and Belief
Page 102

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina I Joseph Allison Clerk of the Court of Pleas & quarter sessions for Orange County, Certify that Asahel Moore, whose name appears upon the third (3) page of the foregoing proceedings. And that Samuel N Tate whose name appears upon the fifth & sixth (5th & 6th) pages of said foregoing proceedings and that Doctor Michael W Holt whose name also appears upon the 7th page of said foregoing proceedings are Justices of the Court of pleas & quarter sessions for the aforesaid County of Orange & that the foregoing signatures purporting to be theirs are their genuine signatures I also further certify that Samuel Kerr who has made a certificate upon the Eighth (8th) page. And that Andrew C Murdock & Elisha Mitchell and Charles W Johnston Esqr who have made certificates on the ninth page are highly respectable citizens of the aforesaid County & their testimony entitled to full credit & belief In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of office & subscribed my name at Hillsboro in the afore said County on this the 12th day of February 1847 J. Allison C.C.C
Page 103

[handwritten letter] (1)
New hope Orange County N. C. Nov. 25th 1846
Dear sir Having recently learnt that you had obtained some further evidence relative to my claim for pension; and not knowing of any other evidence, that can be had; which woult through any light on the subject. I therefore write you these lines requesting you , to lay before the Commissioners all the evidence hich you have as, to the services of my Decd Husband Jno Ray Capt praying them to make me such an allowance as they may think The evidence in the case seem to Justify As a reason for this my age & infirmaties require, that whatever of this worlds goods I am to have, should not be delayed 
I remain your vc Nancy [her x mark] Freeland [illegible] Jno. R. Faucett
Page 104

[handwritten envelope]
Jas. A Craig Esq. [‘Hillsbourogh’ crossed out] Orange County N. C. – Ruffins Mills 
[circular stamp] HILLSBORO [illegible] N.C. 
5
Page 105

[handwritten letter]
(3) State of North Carolina Orange County} On this 2 day of December 1846 personally appeared before the undersigned one of the acting Justices in and for said County Margaret Porterfield resident of said County aged 70 years and after being duly sworn saith that she is the widow of the late John Porterfield Deceased pensioner of the United States and that she has frequently heard her deceased husband said Porterfield say John Ray was a Captain and as such served the United States in the war of the Revolution and further saith not sworn to and subscribed the day above written before Asahel Moore JP.}  Margaret [her x mark] Porterfield 
I hereby certify that Margaret Porterfield is a highly respectable woman and her statements entitled to credit given under my hand the date above written Asahel Moore JP.
Page 106

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina Orange County} On this the 16th day of September 1846 personally appeared before me one of the acting Justices of the Court of pleas & quarter Sessions for said County John Dolly a resident of said County & an United States pensioner who being first duly sworn according to Law deporth & saith as follows. to wit 
That in the fall of 1778 their was a draught for five months militia men who this affiant volunteerd for said tour - Thompson was Captain Lewis & Locke Col of said Regment - Rendavoused in Hillsborough in the aforesaid County of Orange were marched to Salisbury thence to Charlott thence into South Carolina - was marched on the Savanah river into Georgia and was at Rutherfords Camp at Black Swamp, their was marched to Cheraw Hills on the Pee Dee River and their our Five months tour expired and we returned home being first duly discharged by Col Lewis - In all of the aforesaid town this affiant remembers that John Ray Now decd, was in command of a company of Militia and as Captain thereof rendezvoused with us in Hillsborough and remained in command of said Company all of said town and was discharged with us at Cheraw Hills On or about the middle of March 1779. This affiant further states that in the fall of 1781 soon after the Town of Hillsborough was taken by Col Fannig in September of the last named year their was a draught for three months militia and when this affiant volunteered as a private in Capt Hodges Company Tennin was Col and Butler was Brigade Genl. were marched to Wilmington and at the left Swa^mp had an engagement with a party of Toreys and British forces from Willington
Page 107

[handwritten letter]
Were Stationed a while at Swans and Morous bridge And at N East Bridge- We returned to the Town Hillsborough and were their discharged having Served a tour of three months & a half 
In all of the aforesaid tour this affiant members that the aforesaid John Ray was in command of a Company of Militia and did rendezvous with us at Hillsborough and after having all of said tour as a Captain of a Company of militia was duly discharged at the expiration by Col Tinnin --- 
This affiant well remembers John Ray Captain in the Revolution war aforesaid that after the war closed said Ray lived within three miles of this affiant and was about 1790 appointed Col of one of the Orange Regments and was for many years County Surveyor said John Ray died some 30 years ago and his Widdow Agness Ray Married John Freeland of New Hope in the aforesaid County who this affiant understands has been dead 4 or 5 year to the Widdo is as this affiant understands applying for a pension for the Revolutionary services of her first husband Captain John Ray – The affiant further state that to his belief said John Ray during the Revolutionary War was almost in continuous Service - this affiant has often been in conversation with said Ray since the war of the Revolution and has heard him speak of being in Gates defeat & also in Pyles defeat -  And further this affiant saith not Sworn to and subscribed the day & year first above written before me Saml N Tate J. Peace} John [His x mark] Dolly
Page 108

[handwritten letter]
I the said Justice do hereby certify that I am personally
acquainted with the affiant John Dolley and that
he is an aged and highly respectable citizen of
Orange County & this statement is entitled to full credit
& belief and I also certify that the foregoing affidavit
was carefully read over to the affiant before
qualifying & signing -
Sept 16th 1840
Saml N Date I Peace
Page 109

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina Orange County} On this 6 day of February 1847 personally appeared before the undersigned an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County Joseph White a resident of said county on the Eightyish year of his age who being first duly qualfied according to law deposeth and Saith that he was well acquainted with the late Captain John Ray of the said County that lived only four miles from Said Ray and has always understood, and believes that said Ray was as Captian of the militia in the United States Service in the war of the revolution Said John Roy as Captain in the militia was always considered an active officer in the cause of Liberty and was much in the service after the war said Captain Ray married Agness (Nancy) housdale who lived about three miles from this affiants said Ray was highly useful respectable citizens after the revolutionary war closed was Col of militia and County Survey Said Col Roy died about thirty years his widow often ward entermarried with John Freeland of new hope who is since dead and has left the aforesaid Nancy (or Agness his widow and further this deponent saith not Sworn to and subscribed the day and year first above written before me Michael Holt JP} Joseph White 
I the said Justice do certify that I am personally acquainted with Joseph White the affiant & that he is highly respectable citizen Mich Hold J P.
Page 110

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina County of Orange} On this the 26th day of Novr in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred & Forty five, personally appeared before me one of the justices of the Courts of pleas and quarter Sessions for said County, Agness Freeland of said County, formerly widow of the late Captain John Ray and who being first duly qualified according to law maketh on oath the following additional statements viz 
That all the old papers pertaining to her decd husband fell into the hands of his Administrator's and that she does not now know anything of them-- She has caused diligent search to be made for his commission and other papers pertaining to his Revolutionary service, but is unable to find any of them. 
She further states that she cannot now find any one living that served in the army with her Decd husband except James Dollar, who this declarant understands, when he made his affidavit for pension, some 7 or 8 years ago, set forth, that in a town he served to the south in 1780, he was under the command of her Decd husband part of said tour. In addition to this the declarent has procured the affidavits of John Stockard Esq. Genl Joseph Allison, Clerk of the County Court. William Murray Esqr and others who were intimately acquainted with her Decd husband and have testified that they have understood & believe that [illegible] said John Ray did serve the United States in the war of the Revolution as Captain of Militia The declarant further states that she caused search to be made of the Comptroller of publick accounts at Raleigh North Carolina to know if the name of John Ray appeared on the pay Rolls of the Militia that rendered service in the army of the Revolution, and was furnished with a certificate from the Comptroller showing the amount that was paid to John Ray. More recently the declarant
Page 111

[handwritten letter]
has caused to be made enquiry of Mr Collins Comptroller at Raleigh if the records of his office show the grade in which said John Ray served; and in answer, that officer states that the record do not show the grade in which he served, and that his records do but very rarely give the title or grade of office The said Agness Freeland further states upon her said oath that she never knew or heard of any other John Ray that did serve in the army of the Revolution except her Decd husband the aforesaid)^ Capt John Ray The declarant submits her claim to the Commissioner of Pensions, and solicits that he will allow her such annuity, as the evidence in the premises may seem to justify. Sworn to and subscribed the day & year first above writen before me Tho. Long J. Peace} Agness [her x mark] Freeland [hand drawn seal]
I the said Magistrate do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with the declarent Mrs Agness Freeland formerly widow of the late Captain John Ray, that said declarant is an aged and respectable lady & that her statements are entitled to full credit and belief Thos Long J. Piece
Page 112

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina I Joseph Allison Clerk of Orange County Court of Pleas quarter Sessions do Certify that Thomas Long whose name appears to the foregoining certificate was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace of said County duly commissioned and qualified In Testimony whereof I do hereto have my name and affix the seal of said Court at Office this 27th day of November 1845 – J. Allison C.C.C. 
North Carolina Orange County I certify that I have known Angess freeland since my [illegible] and believe that the above aged and of very good character & that she is [illegible] to full credit on any statement the might make Nov 28th 1845 JLSmith
Page 113

[handwritten letter]
State of North Carolina George County} (10 ) On this the 10 day of Feb any 1845 personally appeared before the undersigned an acting Justice of the peace for said County Joseph Freland as ident of said County aged about 79 years who being first duly qualified according to law deposeth and Saith that he was well acquainted with the late Captain John Ray and his widow Agness Ray: That this affiant has understood that said Capt John Ray was married about the year of One thousand Seven Hundred & Eighty four - this Deponent does are from his own recollection remember the date, but Thinks it was about the date above mentioned to wit (1784) This affiant understand that said Capt John Ray was married by James Freeland Esq. To Agness Trousdale that this affiant remembers of being at the [illegible], and has always understood that they were lawfully married- This offical further states that said Capt Ray died about 28 years ago - and that this affiants Brother John Freeland Married the aforesaid widow, Agnes Ray on That said John Freeland did die in the latter part of the year of AD 1843. leaving the said Agnes his widow: And further this deponent Saith not Sworn to and Subscribed the day & date first above written before me George J. Freeland J.Peace} Joseph [his x mark] Freeland I certify that the Deponent is a man of truth & respectability George J. Freeland J.P.
Page 114

[handwritten letter]
(11) State of North Carolina Orange County} 
We Char Freeland and Jno R. Faucett resident Citizens of the aforesaid County and of Lawful age, do hereby certify that we are neighbors to who are well acquainted with Mrs Agness Freeland formerly Mrs Agness Ray, & that her late husband John Freeland did see the 24 day of December 1843. leaving the aforesaid Agness his widow who has not since intermarried but remain the person of the aforesaid John Freeland. Decd. Sworn to and subscribed this [illegible] 28th day of November, 1866 [crossed out] Saml Strayhorn J. Peace}
Charles J Freeland  x 
Jno R. Fancett x 
I the said Justice do hereby certify that the above affiants to wit: Chas J. Freeland and Jno R Faucett are known to me to be of lawful & entitled to full credit & belief Saml Strayhorn J. Peace
Page 115

[handwritten] approved H. Po. [illegible]
Page 116

[handwritten letter] State of North Carolina I John Taylor Clerk of the Court of pleas and quarter session for Orange County, do hereby Certify the foregoing Declation of Agness Freeland [crossed out] Freeland was read examened and approved by Said Court: Whereupon it was ordered by the Court that the Clerk Certify the Same to the War Department. I also Certify that Samuel Strayhorn whose name appears upon the 4th and 11th pages of the foregoing proceedings is one of the Justices of the Courts of pleas & quarter sessions for said county and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his and genuine. I further certify that John W Shaw whose name appears upon the 5 page of said foregoing proceedings and William Murray whose name appears upon the 7th page of said proceedings and that George J Freeland whose name appears upon the 10th page of said proceedings are also Justices of the Courts of pleas and quarter session for said County and show the foregoing signatures purporting to be theirs are their signatures. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of office & Subscribed my name [crossed out] in the aforesaid County on this the 12th day of March, AD 1845 J. Taylor CCC
[perpendicular on page]11770 Received March 26 1845
Page 117

[handwritten letter] (5:) (5)
State of North Carolina Orange County} on this the 11th day of November 1844 came persely before me John W. Shaw one of the acting Justice of the peace and member of the Cort of pleas and quarter Sessions in and for the said County, John Dayley resident of the aforesaid County and State age 90 years who being first duly sworn acording to Law depose and sayeth that^ he was well acquanted with the late Captain John Ray of the afore said County of Orange that he has frekenley herd him talk about his services in the war of the revolution and that he has no doubt but the said Captain John Ray did serve as a Captain in the war of the revolution in the North Carolina melsia Sworn to and subscribed on the above date John W. Shaw J.P. John [his x marke] Dayley
John W. Shaw the above Justce of the peace Do hereby certify that Jon Dayley is a man of truth given under under my hand on the aforesaid Date	John W. Shaw J.P.