Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 7771, Stephen Holmes, Vt.
Page 1

(3-1776)
SERVICE
Vt.
Holmes, Stephen
Lydia
NUMBER
W. 7771
B.L.Wt. 47772-160-55
CONTENTS
Page 2

Vermont
28944
Stephen Holmes
Fairfax in the State of Vermont
[illegible] was a private in the Company commanded
Captain Fassett of the [blank] commanded [blank] in the Vermont
[crossed out "for"] militia [illegible] two years.

Inscribed on the Roll of Vermont
the rate of 80 Dollars [blank] Cents per annum,
commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 23 day of July 1834 and sent William
Bridges St. Albans Vt.

[illegible]ears to the 4th of March, 1834
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Sept "

240.00
40.00
$280.00

Revolutionary Claim,
Act June 7, 1832.

Recorded by Henry H. Sylvester Clerk,
Book E Vol. 3 Page 72
Page 3

Examined by 
[illegible] Johnson
Nov 2/57
[crossed out text]

5954
Vermont B.
Lydia Holmes,
widow of Stephen Holmes, Conn
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate 
of 80. dollars 00. cents per annum, to commence
on the 3d February, 1853.

Certificate of Pension issued 28th day of Oct. 1856 and sent to B. H. Baldwin Present

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act
February 3, 1953, Page 179 Vol. H
Page 4

T S S 719 Act Mar 3/
Aug 7/56

Lydia Holmes wid
Stephen Holmes dec

Private
Vt Mila

W 47772  pd Mr 14/56

Rev War

Pensioner
Vt June 32 - 28941
Ad. 160 ac's Nov 8/56
Dodge
Benj. H. Baldwin
Present

[illegible]B. H. Baldwin, Sept 11/56
E[illegible]d P

Vol H-2=73
Page 5

Stephen Holmes 
Declaration
Page 6

DECLARATION

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

STATE OF VERMONT, FRANKLIN COUNTY, SS. } 
ON this 27 day of July 1833, personally appeared in open Court, before the Court of Probate, now sitting, Stephen Holmes a resident of Fairfax in the county of Franklin, and State of Vermont, age 73 years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832.

That he entered the service of the United States, under the following named Officers, and served as herein stated.

He was born in Dedham, County of Norfolk, Massachusetts, in the month of July 1759.

Has a record of his age in his family Bible.

When called into service he was a resident of Bennington, at which place he lived until after the close of the war, when he removed to  Clarendon, Vermont, from there to Georgia, and from there to Fairfax, where he has resided for more than 30 years.

That at Bennington State of Vermont, in the month of June 1776 he enlisted under Capt John Fassett Lieuts Thomas Butterfield and Matthew Lyon, for six months he thinks Jonathan Fassett commanded the Regt march from Bennington to Pittsford Vt there stationed a short time, marched from thence to Ticonderoga and there stationd about one month and then removed to what was calld Browns Camp on Otter Creek, and there served as one of
Page 7

a scouting party untill his time expired, which was in the month of December, and was dismisd received no written discharge.

That again in the spring of the year 1777, he was calld out with the Militia, and marchd to Ticonderoga, there and at Mount Independence till it was evacuated by the Americans, doing the duty of a private soldier till the enemy took possession of Sugar Hill or Mont Defiance, then he was employed in removing the stores from Fort Ticonderoga and Mount Independence, marchd from the latter place to Castleton Vt, marchd immediately back to the assistance of Col Warner who was attackd by the British at Hubbardton, Vt but did not arrive in time to send any assistance. this engagement took place the first of July as near as he can recollecd between the 4th & 7th that Col Warner & Col Francis' Regt and some troops from New Hampshire were engaged in this action many were killd and taken prisoners, victory being on the side of the British. Marchd with the retreating troops, and the company to which he belonged halted at Bennington, and there station till after the battle at that place, was in the [illegible] served at this time more than two months his officers in this campaign was Capt Samuel Robinson, - Abels Lieut; in Col Moses Robinsons Regt under the command of Gen. St Clare; recollects
Page 8

in this campaign Col Warner, Col Francis Mayr Hopkins, adjutant Safford, Gen St. Clare.

Again in the month of August 1777, a few days after Bennington battle, he again enlisted under Capt. John Warner, Lieut Nathaniel Holmes, and served in Col Herricks and Mayr Armesbury Regt of Rangers marched to Pawlet Vt. prdered frp, thence to Lake George landing these surprised and took a small garison, and marched, to what was calld the French lines, there released a few American prisers & marched back to Lake George. from thence with one other soldier was sent back with two wounded men, one of them was his Lieut; [illegible] Holmes, the other man's name he does not recollect conducted them to Pawlet, and then joined the regt at Saratoga where he remained till after the surrender of Burgoyne, the Regt to which he belonged returned to Parlet, where they were dismised about the first of December 1777, making in this campaign about four months.

In the Spring of the year 1780, he again elisted under the command of Capt William Hutchins Lieuts Castman & Thomas Butterfield Col Ebenezer Allens Regt, marched from Bennington and joined sd Company & Regt at Pittsford. Here employed in cutting pickets & other labour upon the Fort at that place, and scouting from thence to Lake Champlain.
Page 9

watching the movement of the British and Indians, there six or nine months, but can not positively say which. The following spring, 1781, he again served under the same officers in the same place and his duty much the same and served six months.

In the spring following he enlisted under Capt Joseph Safford, marched to Salem N. York then calld White Creek there stationed about four months, his duty being to guard, and protect the inhabitants from the incursions of the Tories, the appliant further states that there was only a part of one company stationd at White Creek had but one officer who had charge of the soldiers. He also states that he never recd a written discharge at any time

The following are the names of persons with whom he is personally acquainted [crossed out "with"] who can testify to his character for veracity and their belief of his services as Revolutionary Soldier. viz Hampton Lovegrove, James Bellons, H. C. Hubbell, John Richardson, Joseph Parmelee, and James Farnsworth.

He has no documentary evidence, and knows of no person whose testimony he can secure who can testify to his services

He hereby relinquishes every claim ^whatever to a pension or annuity, except the present, and declares that
Page 10

his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state.

Sworn to, and subscribed the say and year aforesaid

Stephen Holmes
Page 11

We Ephraim Butler, a Clergyman residing in Fairfax and Hampton Lovegrove and John Richardson residents of the same, herby certify that we are well acquainted with Stephen Holmes who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that we believe him to be seventy three years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we can own in that opinion.

Sworn & subscribed the day and year afsd

Ephraim Butler
Hampton Lovegrove
John Richardson

And the said court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribd by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier and served as he states. And the court further certifies, that it appears to them that Ephraim Butler who has signed the preceding certificate
Page 12

is a clergyman and resident in the town of Fairfax, and that Hampton Lovegrove & John Richardson who have signed the same, are residents of sd Fairfax. Mr Lovegrove is Postmaster, Mr Richardson is a Deacon of a church and is a credible person, and their statement is entitled to credit. 

[signature of "Stephen S. Brown Judge"]
I Aaron S. Beeman clerk of the court of Probate Court, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Stephen HOlmes for a pension.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of said court at St. Albans this [blank] day of July AD 1833

[signature of "Aaron S. Beeman Clerk]
Page 13

State of Vermont
Franklin County ss

St. Albans June 1st 1833
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace within and for sd county Stephen Holms who being duly sworn, deposeth and sath, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his services, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below and in the following grades:

6 For six months I served as a private. For
2 two months I served as a private 2d tour
3 For three months, I served as a private.
6 for six months I served as a private.
6 For six months I served as a private.
4 For four months I served as a sergent; and for ^such service I claim a pension.
25

Stephen Holmes

Sworn to, and subscribed the day & year aforesaid

Before me William Bridges Justice Peace

I further certify that the above named Stephen Holmes is a credible witness

W Bridges Justice Peace
Page 14

State of Vermont
Franklin County p}

I Horace Jones Clark of Franklin County court do hereby certify that William Bridges who has affixed his name to the within, is a Magistrate duly qualified, and that I know the same to be his genuine signature.

[faded stamp mark]

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of said Court, at St. Albans this 29th day of July AD 1833

Horace Jones Clark
Page 15

[printed image of a bird carrying a banner in its beak, with the words "E PLURIBUM UNUM" on the banner]

BOUNTY LAND CLAIM OF
Lydia Holmes
widow of Stephen

War of the Revolution
No. [blank]

Filed 185
By Benj H Baldwin Atty
Washington DC
Page 16

WIDOW'S CLAIM FOR BOUNTY LAND,
To be made by the Widow who has never had a Land Warrant.

STATE OF Vermont
COUNTY OF Franklin ss

On this 20th day of June A. D., 1856, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid Lydia Holmes aged 73 years, a resident of the County of Franklin in the State of Vermont who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of Stephen Holmes deceased, who was a soldier or officer in the Company commanded by Captain [blank] in the Revolutionary War Regiment of [blank] commanded by [blank] in the War [crossed out text "with"] of the Revolution that she was married to the said Stephen Holmes in Fairfax on the day of Oct in the year 1823, that her maiden name was Lydia Merrill that her said husband died in the year 1836 and that she is now a widow. And that she refers to his papers now an fill in the pension office, that he drew a pension of 96 dollars p annum up to the time of his death that he died Feb 3 1936 and since that time nothing has been received except the balance due on his pension certificate

She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the Bounty land to which she may be entitled under Act of March 31, 1855, never having received nor applied for bounty land under this or any other act of Congress. except as above stated.

She hereby appointed Benj H Baldwin her Attorney to prosecute and receive her warrant

[Claimant's signature] 
her mark [hand drawn X] Lydia Holmes

We, Martin Merril and Eliza Merril residents of Franklin County in the State of Vermont upon our oaths, declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Lydia Holmes in our presence, and that we know she is now a widow, and we believe from the appearance and statements of the applicant, together with our acquaintance with her, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.

[Witnesses must sign their names.]

Martin Merrill
Eliza Merrill

The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me, on the day and year above written, and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim.

E. S. Butler J.P
STATE OF Vermont
COUNTY OF Franklin
} sct.

I HEREBY CERTIFY, that E. S. Butler Esq., before whom the foregoing Declaration and affidavit were made, is and was at the time of taking the same, an acting Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid, duly commissioned and qualified, and that his signature above is genuine. 

IN TESTIMONEY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office, this 23 day of June 1856

Joseph H. Brainerd Clerk
Page 17

* This declaration must be accompanied by satisfactory proof of the marriage, of the husband's death, and the present widow-hood of the claimant. If there be a public record of the marriage, a duly certified copy of it should be forwarded, if possible. If there be none but a private or family record, such family record, or a certified copy of the same, should be forwarded, with the affidavit of some disinterested persons proving the genuineness of the original and the correctness of the copy. If no public or private record of the marriage exist, or can be procured, that fact should be set forth in the declaration; and in such case, otner evidences- such as the testimony of persons who knew the parties in the lifetime of the husband, and knew them to cohabit as husband and wife, and to be so reputed- will be admissible.

[Printed drawing of a hand pointing to the right] In no case, however, will the mere statement of witnesses that the claimant is the widow of the deceased be taken as evidence of the marriage; but the witnesses must state the facts and circumstances from which they derive their knowledge or opinion that she is the widow of the deceased.
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State of Vermont
District of Georgia ss

On this 28th day of August, AD 1856, personally appeared before me the subscriber Judge of the Probate Court within & for the District of Georgia, aforesaid, Lydia Holmes a resident of Fairfax in the county of Franklin and State afsd, aged seventy three years, who, being duly sworn, according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provisions made by the Act of Congress, passed February 3, 1853; that she is the widow of Stephen Holmes who was a pensioner of the United States, under the act of June 7th, 1832, at the rate of Eighty Dollars per annum, was a resident of Fairfax, aforesaid, and paid at the Burlington Vermont Agency.

She further declares that she was married to the said Stephen Holmes on the 18 day of Oct AD. 1823 by Samuel Webster [illegible] that her husband, the aforesaid Stephen Holmes, died on the third day of February, Eighteen hundred and thirty six, at Fairfax aforesd;- that she was married to him at the time above stated. She further swears that she was a widow at the passage of the act, and is still a widow, and that she has never before made application for a pension.

[illegible]
Wm Bridges
E. S. Butler

her mark [hand drawn X] Lydia Holmes

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me William Bridges, Judge
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And I further certify that the applicant Lydia Holmes, widow as afsd, I believe to be of the age by her stated; that by reason of bodily infirmity is unable to appear in open court, therefore a special court was held at her residence in said Fairfax. She has no record of her marriage. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of the Probate Court, for the District of Georgia, August 28th, 1856, William Bridges Judge

[faded stamp of seal of the Probate Court]
Page 20

State of Vermont
District of Georgia ss

On this 28th day of Augt, 1856, personally appeared Martin Merrill, and Eliza Merrill of Fairfax, in sd District, who being duly sworn according to [illegible] on their oaths say that they are well acquainted with Mrs Lydia Holmes, the above named applicant for a pension; that they were well acquainted with her late husband, Stephen Holmes, many years previous to his death; that the said Stephen and Lydia Holmes lived together as husband and wife, and were reported so to be, that the deponents never heard the fact questioned or disputed. That the said Stephen Holmes died at Fairfax afsd, on the 3d day of February, 1836, they were both at his residence in [illegible] few hours after his death, and attended his, the said Holmes funeral, they were neighbours to him, ^lived within half a mile of his residence at the time of his death. The said Lydia Holmes has remained a widow since the death of her said husband, and is still a widow, that her said husband was the identical man mentioned as a pensioner in her declaration, hereunto annexed; were present & saw the said Lydia sign, and make oath to the to said declaration, by making her mark, and acknowledging the act, after the same had been carefully read to her by the Judge of Probate
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Martin Merrill
Eliza Merrill

Sworn and subscribed this 28th day of August 1856, And I certify that the said Martin & Eliza are credible & respectable Witnesses.

Before me William Bridges Judge

[faded stamp mark]

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and seal of office at Fairfax in the District of Georgia the day and year above written.

Wm Bridges Judge
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Mrs. John. F. Farley
1040 Carteret
Pueblo, Colorado.

BA-J/CC
Stephen Holmes
W.7771

Dear Madam:

Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of Nathaniel Holmes and that of Captain Stephen Holmes both of Bennington, Vermont.

There is no claim for pension on file based upon service in the Revolutionary War of a Nathaniel Holmes of Vermont. The Revolutionary War record of Stephen Holmes as shown in pension and bounty land claims on file under W. 7771, is furnished you herein.

Stephen Holmes was born in July, 1759, in Dedham, Norfolk County, Massachusetts. The names of his parents are not shown.

While residing in Bennington, Vermont, Stephen Holmes enlisted in June, 1776, and served six months as a private in Captain John Fassett's company, Colonel Jonathan Fassett's Vermont regiment; in 1777, he served two months in Captain Samuel Robinson's company, Colonel Moses Robinson's Vermont regiment and was at the battle of Bennington; enlisted soon after the battle of Bennington, in August 1777, and served three or four months in Captain John Warner's company, Colonel Herrick's Regiment of Vermont Rangers, and was in the engagement at Lake George Landing where his brother Nathaniel Holmes who was lieutenant of the company was wounded; enlisted in the spring of 1780, and served six or nine months in Captain William Hutchins' company, Colonel Ebenezer Allen's Vermont regiment; enlisted in the spring of 1781, served six months in Captain William Hutchins' company, Colonel Ebenezer Allen's Vermont regiment; enlisted spring of 1782, served four months as sergeant in Captain Joseph Safford's Vermont company.
Page 23

After the Revolution Stephen Holmes moved to Clarendon, Vermont, then to Georgia, ^Vermont [handwritten "as we know this was in Vt., had better pay pa, to avoid confusion in [illegible] inquirers] and about 1802 he moved to Fairfax, Franklin County, Vermont, where he was residing when allowed pension on his application executed July 21, 1832.

He died February 3, 1835 or 1836, at Fairfax, Vermont.

Stephen Holmes married October 18, 1823, in Fairfax, Vermont, Lydia Merrill. Date and place of her birth and names of her parents are not shown. No reference was made to a former marriage of the soldier.

June 20, 1856, Lydia Holmes, then aged seventy-three years and a resident of Fairfax, Vermont, applied for the bounty land which was due on account of the service, in the Revolutionary War, of her husband, Stephen Holmes. On this application she was granted bounty land Warrant No. 47772, for one hundred sixty acres, under the Act of March 3, 1855.

Soldier's widow, Lydia Holmes, was allowed pension on her application executed August 28, 1856, while still a resident of Fairfax, Vermont.

No reference is made to children.

In 1856, on Martin Merrill and one Eliza Merrill were living in Fairfax, Vermont and stated they attended the funeral of Stephen Holmes. Their relationship to the family not shown.

No further family data are shown.

For information in regard to the location of the land cited above, you should address the Commissioner of the General Land Office, Interior Department, this city, and furnish the warrant number, the acreage and the act under which said warrant was issued.

In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, the name and address of person paid and possibly the date of death of
Page 24

Lydia Holmes, widow of Stephen Holmes, you should address the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, this city, and cite the following data:

Lydia Holmes, widow of Stephen Holmes
Certificate #5954
Issued October 28, 1856
Rate $80.00 per annum
Commenced February 3, 1853
Act of February 3, 1853
Vermont Agency.

Very Truly yours

A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
Page 25

Revy WIDOW, &c.

File No. 7771
Lydia Holmes
Wid
Stephen Holmes
Prvt Rev War

Act: Feb 3d 1853
Index:- Vol. A, Page 342

[Arrangement of 1870]

[illegible] Mch 1- Hist to [illegible] R. Hardin [illegible] Feb. 12. Hon W. H. Sproul fur-[illegible] data as to Lieut. Nathan [illegible] Holmes, this pen's brother [illegible] correspondence [illegible] Samuel Holmes W. 18066. All [illegible] Mar. 6. Photos mailed to [illegible] Hon. W. H. Sproul. [Illegible]

Feb 29- Hist to [illegible] John B Farley- [illegible]
Page 26

V

47.772

[illegible]

y
Page 27

[stamp mark "TICONDEROGA N.Y.", handwritten "Aug 4" inside]

FREE

Hon. J [illegible]
Court of Pensions
Washington DC

153.719
Page 28

No. 6510

Lydia Holmes, widow of Stephen

Franklin Co. Vermont

Admitted Act Feb 3. 1853 at rate of $80 per annum
Commencing at date of said Act

- Husband private Infantry 2 years
- Pay widow Certificate K

Benjamin H Baldwin Esqr
Washington, D.C.
Page 29

Washington Oct 11/56

Hon J [illegible]
Court of Pension

Sir. In answer to the enclosed letter suspending the Bounty Land Claim of Lydia Holmes widow of Stephen under the Act of March 3 1855, I would call your attention to the Paper of said Lydia Holmes this day filed claiming a Pension under the Act of July 3 1853 for the Revolutionary Service of her said husband Stephen Holmes

Respectfully
Benj H Baldwin
Page 30

Pension Office, Oct 22/56

The Third auditor will please certify the date of death of within names pensioned, and name of his widow, if she [illegible]

Very respectfully
Your obt. Servant,

S. Cole,
Chief Clerk

[signature of "R Geddes"]
Page 31

Third Auditors Office
October 23, 1856

Sir. Stephen Holmes pensioner of Vermont Agency under Act of June 1832 died 2d February 1833 to which date, said pension was paid to his widow Lydia Holmes, as appears from the records of this Office.

Very respectfully
Your obt. servt
Rob J Atkinson
Auditor

[illegible]
The Court of Pensions
Page 32

Stephen Holmes-
Vermont-
Additional

6
2
3
6
6
4
Page 33

State of Vermont
Franklin County ss

St. Albans June 14 th 1834

Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace within & for the county & state aforesaid. Stephen Holmes, who being duly sword, deposeth & saith that in the spring of the year 1787, in the month of March or April he enlisted under Capt Joseph Safford & marchd to White Creek N.Y. as stated in his declaration, & served as a sergent during the campaign, But he is not positive that he had a warrant authorising him to act as such, but believes he had; He knows that he received his appointment from Capt Safford, who was regularly appointed and commissioned and acted under competent authority That during the time he was at White Creek he was constantly on duty in the field protecting the inhabitants, and their property from the incursions of the Tories who were almost daily committing depredations upon the property of the defenceless inhabitants who in that place in particular were surrounded by these miscreants. In regard to the duration of each term of service, the applicant says that he has already named in his declaration, each term of service, and is very sure that he actually served more time than he hath alledged. He is very confident
Page 34

that his campaign at Pittsford in 1780, was nine months instead of six. The applicant further states, that in regard to surviving witnesses he knows of no person (except the [illegible]) by whom he can prove his services.

Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesd

Stephen Holmes

Before me William Bridges Justice of the Peace I further certify that the deponant is a credible witness

William Bridges Justice Peace

State of Vermont Georgia District [illegible]

I Aaron S Beeman Clerk of the Court of Probate within & for the district afsd, do hereby certify that William Bridges, who has affixed his name to the above is a Magistrate duly qualified & that the same is his genuine signature.

[seal of the Georgia District Probate Court]

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixd the seal of said Court at St Albans in said district this 18th day of June AD 1834.

Aaron S Beeman Clerk
Page 35

Lydia Holmes
Page 36

Pension Office,
September 11th, 1856

Sir.

The claim of Lydia Holmes for bounty land has been examined + suspended.

Proof of her marriage with Stephen Holmes should be filed, also of her husband's death + her present widowhood + identity.

Yours Respectfully,

C. H. Rhett
for Commissioner

Benj H. Baldwin Esqr
Present
Page 37

Brief in the case of Lydia Holmes, widow of Stephen Holmes

Franklin County and State of Vermont.
Act February 3, 1853

Claim, ("original," [crossed out "or 'for increase'"])

Proof exhibited, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.

Husband was a pensioner under Act of June 7, 1832, at rat eof $80 per annum, and his pension was paid to 2d February, 1835 ^the date of his death to his widow "Lydia Holmes"- (as per 3d Auditor's Certificate)

Marriage, identity of Claimant as the widow of the said pensioner, his death, and her present widowhood, proved by five credible witnesses-

[crossed out "(If for increase.)"]
[crossed out "Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If sho, what?")

As to marriage the witnesses prove that the parties lived together for a number of years as husband and wife, and were generally so regarded.

Allowance accordingly.

Name and residence of Agent

Benjamin H. Baldwin Esqr
Presently

R Geddes
Examining Clerk.
Page 38

Washington Oct 11/56

Hon J [illegible]
Court of Pension

Sir
I beg leave to [illegible] herewith the declaration of Lydia Holmes widow of Stephen Holmes for a Pension under the Act of Feby 3 1853.

Said Stephen Holmes was a Revolutionary Pensioner on the Vermont Roll, to which Paper I beg leave to refer

Respectfully
Benj H Baldwin
Page 39

No. 5373

Declaration of Stephen Holmes for a Pension
Page 40

DECLARATION.
Revolutionary claim, under and Act of Congress, Passed June 7th, A. D. 1832.

STATE OF VERMONT, DISTRICT OF GEORGIA, ss. 
Franklin County, Probate Court, July 21 A. D. 1832.

Personally appeared in open Court, being the Probate Court, for the County of Franklin, and a Court of Record, for said County, and State of Vermont, as will appear by the first sectontion of a Statute Law of said State, entitled an act, constituting Probate Courts, Courts of Record, passed November 15th, A. D. 1821, [see 1st section of said act.]
Stephen Holmes aged 73 years, resident in Fairfax in said County, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath, make the following declation in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress, passed June 7th, A. D. 1832.

That he entered the service of the United States, under the following named officers, and served as herein stated.

David Safford [illegible]

At Bennington, in the month of June 1776 he enlisted under John Fasset ^Lieut Thomas Butterfield [illegible] Matthew [illegible] for six months (he thinks) Jonathan Fasset commanded - marched from Bennington to Pittsford - stationed there a short time - then marched to Onion River - there stayed a short time - and from thence to Ticonderoga - there stated about one month - and then removed to what was calld Brown Creek or Otter Creek - and there served as one of a scourting party untill his time [illegible] and was then dismissed.

In the spring of 1777 he was called out with the Militia and marched to Ticonderoga - there and at Mount Independence he was stationed untill it was evacuated.

After the enemy took possession of Sugar Hill he assisted in removing the stones from Fort Ticonderoga & Mount Independance - marched from the latter place to Castleton, & marched immediately back to the assistance of Col Warner who was attackd at Hubbardstown but did not arrive in time to render any assistance - marched from there to Bennington - was in the battle at that place. Served (according to his best reccollection) more than two months.
Page 41

served (according to his best reccollection) more than two months.

Again in the month of August 1777 a few days after the last named battle he again enlisted under John Warner Lieut Nathaniel Holmes, Col Herrick ^Maj Armbury Rangers, marched to Pawlet then ordered to Lake George landing - there surprised and took a small Garrison and marched to what was there called the French lines - there released a few American Prisoners - marched back to Lake George - there with one other soldier was sent back with two wounded men - one of them being Lieut Holmes the other man he does not reccolect - conducted them to Pawlet and then joined the Regiment at Saratoga. After Burgoyne surrendered the Regiment to which he the said Holmes belonged returned to Pawlet there dismissed about the first of December 1777 making in this campaign about four months.

In the Spring of the year 1780 he again enlisted into the company commanded by Capt William Hutchins in Lieut Eastman Thomas Butterfield Bennington and marched from thence to Pittsford - there employed in cutting pickets and other labour upon the Fort at that place - and scouting from thence to Lake Champlain - watching the movements of the British & Indians - there served six or nine months but can not be positive which.

The Spring following he again served under the same Officer in the same place and his duty much the same six months.

Dana [illegible]

He thinks the following Spring he again enlisted under Capt Joseph Safford, marched to Salem New York, then called White Creek - there stationed about four months his duty being to protect the inhabitants from the Tories.

He has no documentary evidence whatever. [illegible] he knows of no person whose testimony he can produce, who can testify to this service.

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

Sworn to, and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid, Stephen Holmes
Page 42

He has no documentary evidence whatever. [illegible] he knows of no person whose testimony he can produce, who can testify to this service.

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

Sworn to, and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid, Stephen Holmes

We Hampton Lovegrove & John Richardson, residing in the Town of Fairfax, in the County of Franklin, & State of Vermont, hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Stephen Holmes, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be Seventy three years of age - that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a solider of the Revolution and that we concur in that opinion

Sworn to & Subscribed the day and year afsd

Hampton Lovegrove
John Richardson

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories presented by the War Department that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies that it appears to them that Hampton Lovegrove who has signed the preceeding certificate is a Postmaster in Fairfax the town in which he resides - and that John Richardson, who has also signed the same is a resident in Town of Fairfax being a Deacon & a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.

William Bridges Judg

And the Court do hereby, declare their opinion that, the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.

I, John Gates, jr. Register of the Cout of Probate, for the district aforesaid, do hereby certify, that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matters of the application of Stephen Holmes for a pension.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 21 July A. D. 1832

John Gates [illegible] Register
Page 43

State of Vermont
Franklin County SS

On this the 4th day of October 1836 before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said County personally appeared Damon Howard ^Aged 49 Lucas Kingsbury two of the selectmen of said Town of Fairfax in said County and James M Beeman a Justice of the Peace for said County ages - years who being duly sworn depose and say that they were well acquainted whith Stephen Holmes deceased, late of said town of Fairfax a revolutionary pensioner, and who did in said town of Fairfax about 20 years ago, they also day they are will acquainted with Lydia Holmes widow of said Stephen and know the said Lydia and Stephen to live and cohabit as husband and wife for many years, before the death of the said Stephen, and they were always known and reputed to be married and to be husband and wife, and such was the universal respect in said town, and the [illegible] was [illegible] questioned to their Knowledge. They further say that they were acquainted with Samuel Webster Esq a Justice of the Peace of said County a resident of said town of Fairfax, and who was a Justice many years ago and about the time when the said Lydia alledjes she was married, to wit in 1823, they further say that the said Lydia Holmes has ever since remained
Page 44

[crossed out text begins]
the widow of said Stephen, and now is his widow

Sworn and subscribed before me
Justice Peace

And I further certify that the foregoing Witnesses are persons of the highest respectability

Justice Peace
[crossed-out text ends]

the widow of said Stephen, and now is his widow

Damon Howard
James M Beeman
Lucas Kingsbury

Sworn and subscribed before me 
A. G. Brush Justice Peace

And I further certify that the foregoing Witnesses are persons of the highest respectability

A. S. Brush Justice Peace

STATE OF VERMONT, COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE., Franklin ss.

I Joseph Brainerd Clerk of the COUNTY COURT, for the County of Franklin being a court of record and having a Seal, as hereto attached, do certify that A. G. Brush Esq., was at the date of the paper writings to which this is attached, and now is a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified; that his signature to the foregoing jurat and certificate is genuine; that the said paper writings are executed to the laws of his State, and are in due form; and that as such Officer, he is duly authorized by the laws of this state to take acknowledgements of Deeds and Depositions, and to administer oaths, &c,

[seal of the Franklin County Court]

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of Court, at St Albans the said County of Franklin this 7th day of October Anno Domini, one thousand eight hundred and fifty six. 

Joseph H. Brainerd CLERK.
Page 45

I, Jonah Brewster of Cambridge Franklin County and State of Vermont, aged Eighty three years, do testify and say that I have been personally acquainted with Mr Stephen Holmes, now of Fairfax, for nearly fifty years past, that in the year 1782, I think in the spring of the year, in the Town of Bennington and State aforesaid, said Holmes engaged as a Sergeant under Capt. Joseph Safford, said Company was composed of volunteers, I clearly reccollect the company was sent and stationed the same spring, at White Creek in the State of New York for some length of time to guard the inhabitants from the incursions of the Tories, in which service said Holmes was doing the duty of a Sergeant, and further say not,

Jonah Brewster

State of Vermont
Franklin County ss

Cambridge February 10 - 1834

Then personally appeared before the undersigned authority Jonah Brewster of said Cambridge County of Franklin and State of Vermont a credible witness, who made oath that the facts set forth in the foregoing deposition by him subscribed as therein contained are true according to his best knowledge, information and belief.

Before me Col Safford, Justice Peace
Page 46

State of Vermont
Franklin County ss

I Aaron S Beeman Clerk of the Court of Probate, do hereby certify that Col Safford Esqr is a Magistrate duly qualified to act as such and that his name hereunto affixed is his genuine signature

[faded seal mark]

In testimony, whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the deal of said Court, at St Albans this 15th day of February AD 1734

Aaron S Beeman Clerk
Page 47

I Frederick Cushman of Georgia in the County of Franklin and State of Vermont aged seventy five years do tistify and say that at the commencement of the Revolutionary war I lived in Bennington Vt. and was personally acquainted with Stephen Holmes then of Bennington, now of Fairfax in said county.

In the month May or June 1776, Troops were calld for, from Bennington and vicinity to guard on frontiers, An at that time sd Stephen Holmes engaged in sd service. But I am not able to say what length of time sd troops served my impression is that the troops were absent five or six months.

In the year 1777, I enlisted into Capt John Warners company, in Col Samuel Herrick's Regt. In a short time after the Battle of Bennington sd Holmes was in service previous to his joining Warner's company as afsd, but do not know whether he was an enlisted soldier or served as a volunteer but I know he was in service at the time of Bennington battle. 

I also know that sd Holmes was in the service at different times afterwards and it was said he was at Pittsford and Castleton, But of this I so not positively no for I was not with him only in the summer and fall of 77 at Bennington & Lake George. And further say not.

Sworn to and subscribed this 3d day of June 1834

Frederick Cushman

Before me Wm Bridges Justice of the Peace
Page 48

I further certify that I am personally acquainted with the within named deponant and know him to be a man of truth and veracity

Wm Bridges Justice Peace

State of Vermont
Georgia District ss

I Aaron S. Beeman Clerk of Franklin County Probate ^Court within and for sd district, do hereby certify that William Bridges who has hereunto affixed his name to the above and writtin certificates is a Magistrate duly qualified and that the same is his genuine signature

[seal of the Georgia District Probate Court]

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and affixed the seal of sd court of St. Albans, in said district this 17th day of June AD 1834

Aaron S Beeman Clerk
Page 49

Frederick Cushman's appt in support of Stephen Holmes claim
Page 50

This May Certify that I, Jonah Brewster of Cambridge in the County of Franklin and State of Vermont was well acquainted with Stephen Holmes now of Fairfax in sd County and do know that he served as a soldier in the Revolutionary army under the Command of the Fessetts at Union River and that he served under Capt John Warner the year [illegible] was taken and also at Pittsford and Castleton under Capt Hutchins and also one summer at upper White Creek now caled Salem

Jonah Brewster

State of Vermont
Franklin County ss

Cambridge October 24th 1832
then Jonah Brewster personally appeard and after being carefully [illegible] and duly cautioned made Solam oath that the foregoing declaration by him subsigned contains the whole truth and nothing but the truth before me

Isaac Griswold J Peace

I hereby [illegible] that the [illegible] of the said Jonah Brewster Stands fair as to truth and veracity according to the best my knowledge

Isaac Griswold J Peace
Page 51

Jonah Brewster affidavit in support of Stephen Holmes Declaration
Page 52

State of Vermont
Franklin County ss

I Horace Jones Clerk of Franklin County Court, hereby certify that Isaac Griswold who had signed the within is a magistrate duly qualified and I believe the same to be his genuine signature

[seal of Franklin County Court]

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at St Albans this 4th day of October 1833

Horace James Clerk
Page 53

Erastus Hathaways afft in support of Stephen Holmes claim
Page 54

I Erastus Hatheway, of Swanton, in the County of Franklin, and State of Vermont, aged seventy three years do testify and say that I moved into Bennington Vermont, some time before the commencement of the Revolutionary War, and there became acquainted with Stephen Holmes, there a resident of said Bennington, now of Fairfax, in the County afsd. Said Holmes lived about one half mile from my Fathers House during the war and I well recollect in the forepart of the summer of the year 1776, troops were called for to supply the fort at Rutland, and to guard on the shores of Lake Champlain & Otter Creek, and that said Holmes was one with others from Bennington who enlisted to serve in that campaign to guard at Browns Camp, so called on Otter Creek, where according to the best of my recollection they remained until some time after the Northern Army returned from Quebec to Ticonderoga, and should say that said Holmes was absent at that time six months. I know that the Troops enlisted for that length of time. I also recollect that Capt. Jonathan Fassett, had the command of the Troops that composed the scout stationed on Otter Creek.
I further say that in the year 1777 I enlisted into Capt. John Warners company, in Col. Samuel Herricks Regt. of Rangers for six months, said Holmes was then in the service but I do not know under whom he enlisted. He was in the Battle of Bennington, and soon after joined the same Regt. to which I belonged, and continued therein to the close of the campaign; this I fully believe although I was not with him all the time, a part of the Regt. being detached and sent to Lake George, under Col. Brown, and said Holmes
Page 55

was one who went in that expedition and served under his Brother Lieut Nathaniel Holmes. We were discharged and returned home nearly at the same time; my impression is that said Holmes was discharged first and should say that he served six months. In the year 1779 or 80, said Holmes again enlisted but for what length of time I cannot positively say but I know he was gone through the season, and think it was six or eight months. He was stationed at Pittsford. My means of knowing are, that during the time he was at Pittsford, I was sent there with a load of provisions for the Troops, and said Holmes and my Brother Silas Hatheway, were stationed there at the same time and belonged to Capt. Hutchins company.

In the year 1780 or 81 according to the best of my recollection seven men were called for from Bennington to serve at White Creek, State of New York, and Capt. Joseph Safford, one Walbridge, Stephen Holmes, and one other man by the name of Holmes (his given name I do not recollect) with others (I think to the number of seven) including Capt Safford, who had the command, left Bennington for White Creek, and was gone three or four months. I recollect that they went in the Spring of the year and returned just at the commencement of haying. The reason of my recollecting is, that the father of Walbridge remarked to me once a few days before his sons return that if he did not return soon, he should be obliged to hire a man to assist him about his haying. I also recollect of hearing said Holmes mention the loss of a fine Horse which he lost at White Creek, and said he thought the government ought to pay him for it as it died while in service. These are circumstances that I perfectly well recollect;
Page 56

I also know that said Holmes was a faithfull persevering Soldier, and devoted most of his time to the service of his county from the commencement of the war to its termination.

Sworn to and subscribed this 14th day of June 1834

Erastus Hatheway

Before me William Bridges Justice Peace I further certify that the deponent is a credible witness

Wm Bridges Justice Peace

State of Vermont
George District ss

I Aaron S. Beeman Clerk of the County Probate, within and for said district do hereby certify that William Bridges, who has affixed his name to the above certificate, is a Magistrate duly qualified, and that the same is his genuine signature.

[seal of St Albans Court of Probate]

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at St Albans, this 20th day of June AD 1834

Aaron S Beeman Clerk
Page 57

[circular stamp mark with "PUEBLO FEB 7 10 AM 1940 COLO."]

THIS SIDE OF CARD IS FOR ADDRESS

Veterans Administration
Washington, D. C.

[faded stamp mark with "FEB 9 1940 MAIL SUB[illegible] VETS ADM"]
Page 58

Dear Sirs:

Will you please give me the military records of Nathanial Holmes, of Bennington, Vermont and of Captain Stephen Holmes of Bennington, Vermont, ^[illegible] Vt who served in the Revolutionary War?

(Mrs.) John B. Farley
1040 Carteret
Pueblo, Colorado
Page 59

136 1/2 Lancaster Street
Albany, New York
February 25, 1924

Commissioner of Pensions
Washington, D. C.

Dear Sir:

Will you please send me certified copy of any information or record you may have of the services of Stephen Holmes and his son Benjamin Holmes both of Fairfax, Vermont, in the year of 1812? I have always understood that they were

[illegible stamp mark]
Page 60

both in that war, and that after the war Benjamin received for his services a grant of land, I think, near St. Regis Fall and Dickinson in Franklin  County New York. Benjamin settled in Stockholm, St. Laurence Cy., New York and died there.

I should also like to have you send me certified record of the service of this Stephen Holmes in the War of the Revolution, and also any information you may have as to his residence and that of his brother, Colonel Benjamin
Page 61

Holmes, prior to 1787 where they both moved from Clarendon, Vermont to Georgia, Vermont. This Stephen should not be confused with Stephen, the son of Colonel Benjamin and who served in the War of 1812 from Georgia, Vermont.

I was referred to you by the Adjutant General's office in which there are very scant Vermont records.

Very Truly Yours,
Jessie Stearns Hardie
(Mrs. George R. Hardie)
Page 62

OK ready & proved aw

While living at Bennington Vt he enl. in June 1776 + served 6 mos as a pvt in Capt John Fassetts Co. Col Jonathan Fassetts Vt Regt

In 1777 he servd 2 mos in Capt Samuel Robinsons Co Col Moses Robinsons Vt Reg and was at the bat of Ben.

He enl soon after in Aug 1777 and served 3 or 4 mos in Capt John Warner's Co. Col Herricks Regt of Vt Rangers and was in the eng. at Lake Geo Landing where his brother Nathaniel Holmes who was Lieutenant of the Co. was wounded

He enl in the Spg of 1780 + served 6 or 9 mos in Capt Wm Hutchins Co. Col Ebenezer Allen's Vt Regt.

He enl in the Spg of 1781 + served 6 mos in Capt Wm Hutchins Co Col Ebenezer Allens Vt Regt

He enl in the Spg of 1782 should be 1782 + served 4 mos as Sgt in Capt Jesse Saffords Vt Reg
not so in the case (find) [referring to Capt. Safford's first name, which is circled]
Page 63

3-2233 113

BUREAU OF PENSIONS
Financial Division

March 5 1926.
Chief Rev Sect Division.

I have this day received from Hon. W. H. Sproul M. O. No. [blank] for $2.35, requesting photostat copy [crossed out "post office address"] as per letter herewith.

Mar 6, 1926
Copies mailed + Finance Div [illegible] Aid

O. J. RANDALL
Chief Finance Div.
H. C. L.
Page 64

Request for Photostating 3-2006
(To be prepared in duplicate.) Ex. [illegible]

3052 OFFICE OF THE CHIEF CLERK

Job No. [blank]

Date Feb 27 26

Subject Stephen Holmes, Rev W 7771
(No.) 1 copies of (No.) 5 pieces consisting of (No.) 14 pages to be forwarded when completed to the Rev + 1812 Wars [illegible] Division.

Remarks: [blank]

 Approved:

AE Wilson
Chief [crossed out "Division"] Sect.

[blank]
Chief Clerk.
Page 65

COMMITTEES:
INDIAN AFFAIRS
MINES AND MINING
INDUSTRIAL ARTS AND EXPOSITIONS

Congress of the United States
House of Representatives
Washington, D. C.
March 4, 1926

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section

Honorable Winfield Scott,
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Mr. Scott:-

Answering your letter of February 25, I am enclosing herewith money order in the amount of $2.35 to cover the cost of photostating the papers in connection with Revolutionary War Pension claim W-7771, of Stephen Holmes.

I assure you that your courtesy in this matter is deeply appreciated.

Very truly yours,
W. H. Sproul

S:C
Page 66

W. H. SPROUL
3D DIST. KANSAS

Rev. & 1812 Wars

February 25, 1926

Honorable W. H. Sproul,
House of Representatives.

My dear Mr. Sproul:

In response to your letter of the twenty-fourth instant, relative to copies of papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 7771, of Stephen Holmes and his widow Lydia, I have the honor to advise you that photostat copies will be furnished under the provisions of the Act of August 24, 1912, at the rate of fifteen cents a page, with twenty-five cents extra for certification, if that is desired. The number of pages to be copied is fourteen.

The proper amount should be forwarded to this Bureau by [crossed out text, overwritten with "check drawn to the order"] of the Secretary of the Interior.

The copies will be forwarded you as soon as it is known whether you desire certification.

Very truly yours,

WINFIELD SCOTT,
Commissioner

14
15
-
70
14
25 
-
2.35
Page 67

COMMITTEES:
INDIAN AFFAIRS
MINES AND MINING
INDUSTRIAL ARTS AND EXPOSITIONS

Congress of the United States
House of Representatives
Washington, D. C.
February 24, 1926

Honorable Winfield Scott,
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Mr. Scott:-

With further reference to my inquiry of recent date concerning the Holmes family of Vermont, will you be good enough to have a certified copy made (either photostatic or stenographic) of claim W7771 - Stephen Holmes. I assume that the facts of record are covered by the application filed by the claimant.

I shall be glad to reimburse your office for the expense incurred.

Very truly yours,
W. H. Sproul

S:C

14 pages
Page 68

March 6, 1926

Honorable W. H. Sproul,
House of Representatives.

My dear Mr. Sproul:

In response to your letter of the fourth instant, I have the honor to enclose herewith photostat copies of the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 7771 of Stephen Holmes and his widow Lydia.

Very truly yours,

WINFIELD SCOTT, 
Commissioner.
Page 69

Rev. and 1812 Wars Section W. H. S.

[handwritten note "Do not write this way again"]

March 31, 1924

Mrs. George R. Hardie
136 1/2 Lancaster St.,
Albany, New York

Madam: 

I have to advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim W. 7771 it appears that Stephen Holmes was born in July 1759 at [handwritten note "in is correct"] Dedham, Norfolk County, Massachusetts. [crossed out "He was a resident of"] ^While residing at [handwritten note "in it should be"] Bennington, Vermont [crossed out "during the Revolution"]

[handwritten note "no dates [illegible] Lake Geo [illegible]"]

[following paragraph is struck through with a diagonal line]
he enlisted and served as a private for twenty-one months and as a Sergeant for four months ^during [crossed out "War of"] the Revolution, under Lieutenant Nathaniel Holmes (his brother), Captains John Fassett, Samuel Robinson, John Warner, William Hutchins and Joseph Safford, Colonels Jonathan Fassett, Moses Robinson, Samuel Herrick and Ebenezer Allen, in the Vermont Troops; he was in the battle of Bennington [crossed out "and at the surrender of Burgoyne."] [handwritten note "does not mention being at either of the battles"] [handwritten note in different hand "neither did S. WHS"]

[crossed out "After the Revolution he moved to Clarendon, Vermont, thence to Georgia, Vermont, thence to Fairfax,"]
Page 70

Fairfax Franklin County, Vermont where he was allowed pension on his application executed July 21, 7832. He died February 2, 1835 or February 3, 1836 in said Fairfax.

Soldier married October 18, 1823 in Fairfax, Vermont, Lydia Merrill who was allowed pension on her application executed August 28, 1856 while a resident of said Fairfax aged seventy-three years.

Respectfully ,

Commissioner.

[handwritten note "any more [illegible] data"]

There is no further data on file as to family in this claim
See attached sheet for service
Page 71

Stephen Holmes

Vermont

Admit as private

2 years $80 [illegible]

[illegible]

Hon. B. Swift
Senate [illegible]
[illegible] April 9th 1834
W. M. Bridges Esq.

St. Albans
Vt
Page 72

3

alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.

The court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.

1. Where and in what year were you born?
2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you live now?
4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.
6. 
To a Soldier. Did you ever receive a discharge from service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it?
To an Officer. Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?
5. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution.

The court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.

The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without to much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons-- one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.

The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the inquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have every existed upon the subject.

Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.

Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court of County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.

No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in the case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.

[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity, [illegible] the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must be invariably mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words: 
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades: - For [blank] year [blank] months, and [blank] days, I served as a [blank]. For [blank] months and [blank] days, I served as a [blank]; and for such service I claim a pension."
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months, is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.

Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.

Proof of service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
The notes from [a] to [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers, and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[k] This traditionary evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[l] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

He should endeavor to produce more proof. He states that he was a sergeant in his explanatory statement for the first time, this must be proved.