Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 15320, Isaac Benham, Conn. Continental
Page 1

Service
Conn,  Benham, Isaac Number  S.15320
Continental 
carded
Page 2

17.601
Vermont
Isaac Benham
in Jerico in the State of Vermont
who was a Private in the company commanded
by Captain ~~  of the Regt commanded
by Col Swift in the Ct.: Ma:
line for 2 yrs. Connecticut Continental

Inscribed on the Roll of Vermont at the rate of 80 dollars 00 cents per annum,
to commence on  the 4th of March, 1831.
______________
Certificate of Pension issued the ["21" crossed out] 31 day of August 1833 and Sent to 
N.B. Harwell Burlington
________________
Arrears to the 4th of March 1833 $160.00
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Sept.-   40.00
                                                         __________
                                                          $200.00
                                                          __________
{Revolutionary Claim,}
{Act June7,1832.}
Recoded by W L. Williams Clerk,
Book E Vol. 3. Page 53


[left of page]
Henry Weed, July 16/53
Same Sept.2d 1853
Same Oct. 20 1853
Page 3

[left margin] *
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a Pension or annuity except the present and declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the agency of any State.


Revolutionary Claims.
______________________
STATE OF VERMONT.}
Chittenden County, ss.}
 On this seventeenth day of August A. D. 1832, personally appeared in open Court, before the
Honorable County
Court for the County of Chittenden, now sitting, Isaac Benham
a resident of Jerico
in the County of Chittenden
and State of Vermont, aged Seventy two years, who being first duly sworn according to
law, doth on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of
Congress passed June 7, 1832, That he entered the service of the United States under the following
named officers, and served as herein stated.
In March 1777. I enlisted under Captain Tibbetts of Norfolk Connecticut for three years.  as a continental
Teamster, and served until the spring of 1779 when I
was discharged
In July 1779. I volunteered in Captain Lawrences
company in Col Phelps Regiment of Connecticut troops and
went to Horse neck and was on this tour of duty five
weeks, was dismissed at that place
In August 1779 I was drafted for two months
and marched to old Fairfield under Captain Toby and
was dismissed the last of October.
In the Spring of 1780 I enlisted for six
months and joined Captain Converses Company in
Col Swifts Regiment and Gen Poors Brigade of
Continental or Connecticut troops, and served out the
full period of my enlistment.
When I first engaged as a continental
Teamster under Captain Tibbetts, we went first to Hartford
when General Wadsworth had command of this Department
from thence we went to Danbury and from thence to Peekskill
and Fishkill where we remained about two years -
In
1780 I joined the army at West Point and I think Gen
Lafayette commanded the Infantry
I was born in Waterbury, Conn.
 October 21. 1760, -when I
entered the service I lived in Norfolk, Litchfield County until 
the Revolution I have lived the principal part of my time in Vermont,
having lived in Jerico my present place of residence for the last
thirty eight years. -I do not recollect of seeing a
written discharge *

Sworn and Subscribed  
  Isaac Benham[signature]
the day and year aforesaid
before Nathan B Harwell Clerk
Page 4

I was born in Waterbury Connecticut October 21, 1760 and when
I entered the  Revolution I lived at Norfolk, Litchfield County
after the Revolution I removed to Vermont and have lived in Jerico
for the last thirty eight years-- I have no record of my age, -and
do not recollect of receiving a written discharge

He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a Pension or annuity except the present, and
declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the agency of any State.
Sworn to and Subscribed}
the day and year aforesaid,}
Isaac Benham[signature]
Before
Nathan B Harwell Clerk
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter and after
putting the Interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a
Revolutionary Soldier and served as he states, - And the Court further certify, that it appears to
them, that Henry Smith who is a Clergymen, Jonathen Rensom
and  Moses Billings
who have signed the annexed certificate and who are residents of the town of Jerico
are credible persons and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Attest El Brownson
John VanSieklind
{Judges of Chittenden County Court

STATE OF VERMONT.}
Chittenden County, ss.}
 I Nathan B Harwell
Clerk of
Chittenden County Court, do hereby certify, that the
foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said
Court in the matter of the application of Isaac
Benham
for a Pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and
seal of office, this
17th
day of August
A. D. 1832,

Nathan B Harwell
Page 5

additional No 1
State of Vermont}
Chittenden County}
Personally appeared before me the
undersigned, a Justice of the Peace for Chittenden County
Isaac Benham of Jerico in said County, to me known as
the same person who made a declaration, before the Honorable
Chittenden County Court on the 17th day of August AD
1832 for the purpose of obtaining a Pension under the
act of Congress of June 7, 1832, who being duly sworn
doth make the following additional declaration.
In March 1777 a Renelvour was opened at
Norfolk Connecticut for enlisting soldiers for the
Continental army for three years or during the War
and a choice was given for those who engaged to
go into the Teamster service, or do the duty of soldiers.
Captain Titus Watson, had charge of those who enlisted
as soldiers, and Captain, Samuel Tibbells' the teamster
department, and in the month of March 1777. the precise
day I do not recollect, I enlisted into the Teamster service for three years. -I was anxious to enter as a
soldier,- but being young, my parents that best
for me. to enter the Teamster service- I first went
to Hartford, and then General Wadsworth had command
of the Teamster service, I was employed in driving
on Ox Team -and took a load of Pork, and
moved it to Danbury in (Conn) soon after it was
burnt, I ought to have stated, that previous to
leaving Norfolk, orders were received for all those
Page 6

who had enlisted to be inoculated for the Small Pox
I was inoculated, but did not have it severely,-: from
Danbury I went to Peekskill, and remained there during the summer,.
 I was there, when the British took
Fort Montgomery which I think was in October, I recollect that we distinctly heard the Guns which were fired in that
occasion- the next season we men..
at Fishkill
and its neighborhood,- during Hay.- Provender
Provisions oc- and I continued as a Teamster
until [words"my three" lined through] two years was up, which I think was
in March 1779. when I was dismissed -I returned
to my home in Norfolk (Conn)- our terms failing, Captain Tibbells got a
dismission & also got one for me.
In July 1779. the (precise day not recollected)
I volunteered as a private soldier and marched to Horse-neck under the command of Captain Laurence
in Colonel Phelps Regiment of Connecticutt troops and
served until some time in August I think the latter part, when
I was dismissed at that place, I recollect that my service was five weeks- I returned home, and the latter part of August 1779 I was drafted as a common soldier
and served two months, in Captain Tobys Company
we marched to [illegible crosses out] Fairfield, which had been
burnt  by the British, I think I was dismissed the
latter part of October.
In the spring of 1780, and I think the latter
part of ^ May or first of Jun., I enlisted at Norfolk for six months
to fill up the standing army, - it was said the three years men had been discharged and recruits were raised
for six months- we went to West Point and there joined
the army, and I was placed under Drill- after about two weeks. I recollect the army was paraded and
Page 7

General Marquis de La Fayette asked permission to select
a corps of Infantry, or Light Corps. Barron Stuben, selected
the men, - I was picked out as one of the men
and was attached to Col Swifts Regiment in Gen Poors Brigade, and I think one Captain Converse
commanded the company, but of this I will not be positive,-
 I recollect that Gen. Poor died at
Hackenssac, and Col Swifts Regiment attended the
funeral, I recollect being present on that occasion
one Bacon  (his Christian name not recollected) was the first
or orderly Sergeant of our company.- we had been drilled
one day to learn the funeral exercise.- I continued in
the service for six months, and my impression is that I was discharged the 9th of December.- I was discharged
at the Highlands, but my discharge I have lost
I think my name will be found [word"of " crossed out] on Gen La Fayette
Rolls of Infantry. -when we were ordered into winter quarters which I think was in November, we were employed
in building huts, I joined my old Regiment that I
belonged to before entering the Corps of Infantry as above stated


Isaac Benham[signature]

Sworn and subscribed this 21st |
day of May AD 1833 and           |
I hereby certify that the above   |
named Isaac Benham is a           |
credible person
     Before me                        

Nathan B Harwell Justice of the Peace
Page 8

State of Vermont ⎬
Chittenden County}
I Nathan B Harwell Clerk
of Chittenden County Court
do hereby certify that Nathan B Harwell
 Esqr. before whereas
the annexed declaration was
taken was at the time
thereof a Justice of the Peace
duly qualified acting
under the authority
this state and that his name thereto subscribed
is his own proper signature
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my hand and affixed the seal of said Court
this 5th day of June AD 1833
Nathan B Harwell
Page 9

6446
Isaac Benham

2 yrs
$80

N. B. Harwell
Burlington
Page 10

WAR DEPARTMENT
Pension Office,
27 April 1833

Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will show what is necessary to be done. These points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: } ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.

A Statement, showing the Service of Isaac Benham of Jerico VT
[column headings]
Period when the service was rendered. | Duration of the claimant's service. | Rank of the claimant. | Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served. | Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service. | Proof by which the declaration is supported.

1777 Aug | 2 years | private | Gen. Wadsworth | 72 years old. When I entered the service I lived in Norfolk Conn. | Ichabod Chapins Deposition.

1779 | 1 month, 7 days | private | Conn. Troops Col. Phelps regt. |

1779 | 2 months | private |

1780 | 6 months | private | Col. Swift's Regt.
[total] 2 [years] 9 [months] 7 [days]

I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS,
Commissioner of Pensions.

Mr. Isaac Benham
Page 11

2

 REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.

The following regulations have been adopted:

This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army and to include under the terms "Continental Line", "State troops", "militia", and "volunteers", all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c., Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.

Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:

1. The Regular Troops.

2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.

3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.

4. Indian Spies.

As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will, in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.

 

DECLARATION

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

State, Territory, or District of

County of }ss.

On this ____ day of _________ personally appeared (a) before A.B. a resident (b) of ______ in the county of ________ and State, Territory or District of ____aged (c) __________years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) _____, with ______ and served in the ________ (e) regiment of the ________ line,, under the following named officers:

(Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marched. This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.)

 

He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of _________.

Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.    A.B.

 

(And then will follow the certificate of the Court)

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

I ________ of the Court of ___________ do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of __________ for a pension.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this __________ day of __________ &c.

 

If on examination of the proper record, the names of applicants, making such declarations, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.

Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:

(k) We, A.B., a Clergyman, residing in the ___________ and C.D. residing in (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with ______, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be _________ years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.

Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.

(And then will follow the certificate of the Court.)

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that A.B. and that C.D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the ______ and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.

I, __________ Clerk of the Court of ______ do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of __________ for a pension.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this _____ day of _________&c.

 

Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the applicant.

If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will also, whether he produces such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person

[written on bottom]
Not on the rolls of the Continen.
Page 12

3

 

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

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

1. Where and in what year were you born?

2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?

3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?

4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?

5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.

6. {To a Soldier {Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it?

{To an Officer {Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?

7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your service 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 too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons - one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.

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

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

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

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

_______________

(a) The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.

(b) The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.

(c) The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.

(d) The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.

(e) Every continental officer or soldier 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. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades: For _____ year ___ months and _____ days, I served as a ______. For _______ months and ________ days, I served as a ___________; and for such services 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 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 years, 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 services 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 emplo9yed in any civil pursuit.

(f) The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.

(g) The opinion of the court is always required.

(h) The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.

(i) The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signatures 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 certificates 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 exam of Militia men, Volunteers and state Troops. The proof required by rule in case (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 in the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

[written on the bottom putting together from previous page]
Not on the rolls of the Continental Army as he states.
Page 13

15320
INVALID.
File No. 15320
Isaac Benham
Teamster Rev War

Act: June 7th 32
Index: - Vol. 1, Page 31
(Arrangement of 1870.)
June 11 '96
period to
Mrs. Geo B Walton
Montpelier VT
July 18 190[?]
Mrs. Laura Wilson
Kewanee
Page 14

17,601
Daniel Burlington
Isaac Benham
of ~~ in the State of Vermont who was a teamster in the ~~ commanded by Captain ~~ of the ~~ commanded by ~~ in the Revolution two years. Conn and Continental

Incr from $80
Inscribed on the Roll of Burlington at the rate of 180 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 14th day of November '53 and sent to Henry Weed Hinesburgh Vermont

Arrears to the 4th of 
Semi-anl. allowance ending

{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.}
Weightman Clerk
Vol. 3 Page 57

Henry Weed 28 1853
Page 15

Isaac Benham
No 6446
Page 16

I. 

State of Vermont
Chittenden County} We the undersigned  inhabitants of Jerico do hereby certify on oath that we are personally acquainted with Isaac Benham of Jerico, that we believe him to be seventy two years of age, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the Revolution and we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed this 15th day of August AD 1832. And we hereby certify that the above deponents [cut off]
Jonathan Ransom
Moses Billings
Henry Smith

G

STATE OF VERMONT
Chittenden County, ss. } I Nathan B Maxwell Clerk of Chittenden County Court, do hereby certify that, Lymon Field Esar, before whom the annexed affidavit is taken, was at the time thereof, a Justice of the Peace, duly qualified, acting under the authority of this State, and that I believe his name thereto subscribed, to be his own proper signature.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court, at Burlington, this 17th day of August A.D. 1832.
Nathan B. Maxwell
Page 17

I.

State of Vermont
Chittenden County} We the undersigned inhabitants of Jerico do hereby certify on oath that we are personally acquainted with Isaac Benham of Jerico, that we believe him to be seventy two years of age, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the Revolution and we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed this 15th day of August AD 1832. And we hereby certify that the above deponents are credible persons.
Lyman Field Justice of the Peace

Jonathan Ransom
Moses Billings
Henry Smith

I hereby further certify that Henry Smith who has signed the above certificate is a Clergyman in good standing. Lyman Field Justice Peace
Page 18

State of Vermont
Chittenden County} I hereby certify that the papers hereto attached marked A, B, & C are the same papers heretofore forwarded to the Pension Office to substantiate the Declaration of Isaac Benham of Jerico and that since their return from the Pension Office the additional documents marked No. 1 & 2 have been added.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Burlington this 5th day of June AD 1833.
Nathan B. Maxwell Clerk
Page 19

State of Vermont
Chittenden County} Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace for Chittenden County, Ichabod Chapin of Jerico in said County who having duly sworn doth depose and say that in the year 1779, I belonged to Captain Phelps Company in Col. Phelps Regt of Connecticut Troops [illegible] and was at Horse Neck, when I was knowing to the services of Isaac Benham, who now lives in Jerico. The said Benham to my knowledge did duty for five weeks.
In 1780 I enlisted into Captain Thomas Converses Company for six months, in Col. Heman Swifts Regt of Connecticut Troops, and was knowing to Isaac Benham enlisting also for six months. We joined the Army at West Point, and our Col (Swift) was taken into Gen. LaFayettes Corps of Light Infantry and served until they returned into winter quarters when he resumed his command of his old Regiment, I was knowing to the said Isaac Benham having been loaned out by Borron Stuben as a soldier to join the Light Corps, when the army returned into winter quarters I again saw said Benham, That he served six months and was discharged, I was discharged one or two days after him.
Ichabod Chapin
Sworn and subscribed this 21st day of May AD 1833 and I hereby certify that the above named Ichabod Chapin is a credible witness.
Before me,
Nathan B. Maxwell Justice of the Peace
Page 20

No - 1
Appl of Isaac Benham
Augt 1853
Page 21

I, Isaac Benham of Jericho, Chittenden County Vermont aged ninety two years depose & say I am an applicant for Increase of Pension for service as Teamster in the Continental Line of the Revolutionary army. I enlisted in March 1777 at Norfolk Connecticut for three years in the Continental Team service under Capt. Samuel Tibbals. I joined the company at Hartford and our company consisted of ten teams of four oxen in each team and the names of the Co. was as near as I recollect then as Tibbals, Ebenezer Reed, Reuben Munger, Luther Barber, Reminton. [illegible] and deponent. This Barber died in first year of the drive with the camp distemper. I well knew Capt. William Bawland & I know he had a company the first year (1777) and the next year he purchased supplies for teams & had a general [illegible] & therein. I recollect he came to Fishkill in the winter of 1777-1778 and gave several permission to go home. He was also paymaster for our company. The first year services period sixteen dollars per month, and payment is due about once in two months. The next year 1778 I was paid more on account of the currency being depreciated. I was promised sixteen dollars a month when I enlisted. Soon after I enlisted I had the small pox & was ordered
Page 22

That all who had enlisted for three years must be inoculated. The first year Capt Tibbols went with the company. The next year one John White was appointed Conductor and for a while took charge of our company, but he became incompetent and was turned out. And one Capt. Benedict took charge of our company.
I enlisted to serve in the capacity of teamster for two years & was then discharged. I furnished my own clothing during the whole period of this service of two years.
Isaac Benham

Sworn before me on this 1st day of September 1853. And I hereby certify said Benham retains his memory of events of which he testifies, and is a person who has always sustained a character above reproach.
Elias Bartell Just Peace
Page 23

[top half of the page is blank. 2nd half has very faint writing]

State of Vermont
[illegible] County}
I certify [illegible] Isaac Benham taken is and was of the date taking a Justice of the Peace within and for [illegible]. 
In testimony whereof I have hereto affixed the seal [illegible]
September, 1853
D. French Deputy Clerk
Page 24

State of Vermont
County of Chittenden} Ss.
Be it known that before me a Justice of the Peace in & for said County personally appeared Isaac Benham a resident of Jericho in said county aged ninety two years and a pensioner of the United States at the rate of eighty dollars per annum, being duly sworn saith he entered the service of the United States at Norfolk Connecticut in March 1777 in the Continental Team service for three years & continued in the service for that period, a part of the time under Capt or Conductor Samuel Tibbels & a part under Capt Benedict. The latter part of the time I was a private in the ranks, the teams being unfit for service were ended. Believing the United States are still under obligation to pay me an increase of pension for my service as teamster as before said, my pension being less than was promised  & paid me for said service in the Continental line, to wit, a part of the time as eight dollars per month & a part at sixteen dollars per month.
And know all men by these presents that I the said Isaac Benham do hereby constitute and appoint Henry Weed of Hinesburgh Chittenden County Vermont my true and lawful attorney irrevocable to ask demand and in all lawful means to procure
Page 25

such increase of Pension as I am entitled to by law, hereby ratifying all lawful acts of my said attorney.
Witness my hand & seal at Jericho this 1st day of April AD 1853.
Isaac Benham
In presence of Ebenr Benham
Moses Hatch

Sworn to and acknowledged before me on the day and year before written. And I hereby certify the said Isaac Benham is personally known to me and is a man of credibility & not withstanding his great age has still a very good memory especially what relates to his Revolutionary Services.
Elias Bartlet Justice Peace
Page 26

State of Vermont
Chittenden County Ss. }
I David B. Buckley Clerk of the County Court in and for the County of Chittenden and State of Vermont do hereby certify that Elias Bartlett before whom the foregoing declaration and power of attorney of Isaac Benham was taken is and was at the date thereof a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid duly elected and qualified and that his signature thereto is his own hand writing.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of said Court and subscribed my name at Burlington in said County this 4th day of April AD 1853.
Daniel D. Buckley
Page 27

Bates Turner Esq
Affidavit in support of Isaac Benham claim
Page 28

I Bates Turner of St. Albans County of Franklin & State of Vermont aged seventy two years, testify and say, that in the early part of my life I lived in the town of Norfolk Litchfield County & State of Connecticut, was a resident of said Norfolk when the Revolutionary commenced, there enlisted into the American Army in Col. Webbs Regt in July 1777 for three years, that at this time and many years previous I was well acquainted with Isaac Benham who was also a resident of said Norfolk and about my age, we had the small pox about the same time, but not in the same House before we entered the service of the United States. I did not see Mr. Benham enlist, but from my knowledge of him at the time he entered the service & what I have learned since, I am well satisfied that he enlisted about the same time that I enlisted as above stated under Capt. Samuel Tibbels of Norfolk a man that I was well acquainted with who has charge of the company of teamsters employed in the United States service. I understood that said Benham enlisted for three years but served but two years in his first campaign. This I understood at the time and verily believe that said Benham served the term of two years.
That in the spring of the year 1780, I again enlisted for six months, and that said Benham enlisted not far from the same time
Page 29

in to the army as a private and from the knowledge of his service at the time and after he returned I have no doubt, and verily believe that he served his full term of six months out. Mr. Benham now resides in Jericho Chittenden County Vermont, where he has resided for thirty nine years; and although I have not been intimately acquainted with Mr. Benham since he resided in Vermont yet I know him to be the same man that resided and enlisted as above stated - being, now before me at St. Albans.
The above and foregoing statement is according to my best recollection.
Bates Turner

State of Vermont
Franklin County Ss} St. Albans June 7th AD 1833. Then personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace, Bates Turner Esq and subscriber and made oath to the above and foregoing affidavit is true according to his best knowledge information and belief.
Before me
William Bridges Justice of the Peace

I further certify that the above named Bates Turner Esq is a man of truth and veracity.
W. Bridges Justice Peace
Page 30

State of Vermont
Franklin County Ss} St. Albans June 7th 1833. I Horace Jones Clerk of the County Court in said County of Franklin, do hereby certify that the Honb. William Bridges whose name is signed to the foregoing certificate is a Justice of the Peace within and for said County of Franklin, duly appointed by the Legislature of the State, and that the same is signed by him in his own proper hand writing. In testimony whereof I have hereunto signed my name and affixed the Public seal of said Court the day and year above.
Horace Jones Clerk

State of Vermont
Chittenden County} I Nathan B. Maxwell Clerk of Chittenden County Court, do hereby certify that the above named Isaac Benham, is the same identical Isaac Benham, who made his Declaration before the Honorable Chittenden County Court Augt 17 1832 and whose papers now remain on file in the Pension Office at Washington. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Burlington this 21st day of August AD 1833.
Nathan B. Maxwell
Page 31

Hinesburgh VT October 4 1853
Sir,
Your letters of July 16 and Sept 23 in answer to the claim of Isaac Benham for increase of his Pension on the grounds that he served as a Continental Teamster under Genl Wadsworth is before me. In the former you have directed me to the Historical Society Con. for rolls of Capt. Tibballs which you say will be necessary & also to  prove he recd $16 per mo for this service, in the latter you have said there is no proof exist of this service.
On the 27 of June 1832 certain instructions emanated from the War Department to claimants under the law of June 7, 1832 in which it is stated that the rolls of the Regular Army existed in that Department, which would be referred to & if on examination the name of an applicant was not found they would receive detailed instructions. In pursuance of these rules & instructions Isaac Benham of Jericho made his declaration before Chittenden County Court on the 7th August 1832 in which he stated he enlisted in March 1777 at Norfolk Con under Capt. Samuel Tibbals as a Continental Teamster for three years and served in that capacity two years & was discharged. He also claimed to have rendered other service in the militia amounting in all to about nine months. In answer to this, he was directed to make a more detailed statement, which he did in an amended declaration before N. B. Haswell Esq on the 23d May 1833 in which he stated enlisted in 
(over)
Page 32

the month of March 1777 (the day he could not tell) under
Capt Samuel Tibbals for three years under Gen' Wadsworth
& continued to serve two years, at different places, that before he
joined his company he had the small Pox as all we ordered
to who had enlisted for three years - This amended declaration
was accompanied by the effect of Bates Turner late Judge
of the Supreme Court^ [illegible] who testified he knew Isaac Benham
from a boy & that they enlisted about the same time at
Norforlk each for three years, and as he so enlisting they
had the small pox together at the same place, and that Benham
enlisted under Capt. Sam' Tibbals for three years but served
only two, afterwards in 1780 he & Benham enlisted under
Capt Converse for six months & served that time together
 Ichabod Chapin of Jericho served with Benham five
weeks in 1779 and six months in 1780. With this
evidence and the rolls, to refer to as stated, Mr Benham
was placed on the pension Roll on the 31 August 1833
at the rate of Eighty dollars per annum that there
being the highest rate allowed for team service and
this sum paid him to the 4th of Sept 1833, and now
finding others are paid increase as is provided by law
he is gravely informed there is no proof exact of
his service.
I inclose another affidavit of Mr Benham which is
not pretended as proof of itself but show how he remembers
those who served with him - of this number Thomas Tibbals
will be found pensioned on the Connecticut rolls, also
the certificate of Mr Hosmer of the Historical society Con
Page 33

although it does not furnish the name of Isaac Benham
or that of any other teamster under Capt Tibbals, yet it shows
Capt Saml Tibbals was appointed Conductor by Genl. Wadsworth,
the 20th March 1777 and an allow and for expences from Norfolk
to Hartford & for payt.  to Dr Guntian for Inoculating 6
teamsters under Tibbals command - is there a doubt but what
Benham was one of the 9 teamsters whose expence was born for
Norfolk to Hartford, or one of the 6 teamsters inoculated as
allowed Dr Guntian and which facts Mr Benham stated in
his declaration in 1832 - also the payt.  to Capt Tibbals
Apl 2d 1777 for himself & 10 teamsters $57 & 2 months wages
for 9 Teamsters, $52.10 - sharing that they were paid $5. Pa
Currency a about $16 a month as stated by Mr Benham
in his Affid of Apl 1, 1833 & also the one inland
In your letter of July 16 you state it will be necessary to
prove that than who served as claimed by Benham was paid
$16. In a former letter I took the liberty to allude to a
private conversation held with you on the 20th Apl
last at the Pension Office in relation to this claim
of N. Benham, in which I understood you to admit
that there would be no necessity of proving that those who
served under Genl Wadsworth were entitled to receive
$16 per month & if Pensioned for that service the
evidence on which he was pensioned would be sufficient
to entitle him to the income - to show you I was
not wholly mistaken in my understanding of that conversation I 
inclose you a copy of your letter to my friend
J R Hiscock Esq. New York -and is marked No 3
   over
Page 34

believing the claim of Mr Benham fully established
and that he was justly pensioned for this service
under Capt Tibbals. I hope it will be admitted
without further delay, that he may in part injoy
the bounty provided by law for him before he dies
I am very respectfully
Your Obt sevt
Henry Weed


Hon L P Waldo 
Commissioner
Washington
Page 35

[faint writing]
Brief
Se[illegible] Fau[illegible]
Page 36

Isaac Benham died Vt for increase under
June 7, 1832.
Declaration- Aug 17. 1832.
1777    In March 77, enlisted as teamster for 3            
1778    years under Capt Tibbetts of Norfolk CT - & 
1779    served until Spring of 79 & dischd- 2 yrs

In July 79 served in Capt Lawrens Co, Phelps Regt
  5 weeks
In Augst 79 Capt Toby
  2 mos
  1780   In Spring of 80 Convers Co. Swifts Regt.         Poor's Brigade
   6 mos

Born Oct 21, 1760

Ichabod Chapin proves 2d & last service
  7 mos
Bates Turner to 1st & last terms  2 yrs 6 mos

Declarant stated. Before leaving Norfolk (1st service) orders
were given for all enlisted to be inoculated & I was-
When I 2 yrs were up, our teams failing, Capt T. procured a dismission
for himself & one for me
Admitted under act of 1832 at $80
[ a drawing of a hand pointing to Declarant statement in lower left of page]
Page 37

Application for Increase
Isaac Benham ( in person) Apl 1, 1853
and afft Sept 1. 1853. before J. Bartlet J.P.
2 witnesses to declaration
Names of his Co- Thos Tibbats, Ebenezer Reed,
Reuben Munger, Lane, Luther Barker
Remington, Stannard & deponent- 8
 Paid ^8$ part of time & part of time 16$
per mo 1st year & more 2d year
on acct of depreciation.
1st year Capt Tibbats conducted. 2d year John White
was appointed condr but was intemperate & we complained
to Capt Bowland & he turned him out and [word"himself" lined through]
Capt Benedict took charge the remainder of the time.

Certif of Sec Hist Socy - Sep 29 1853
Saml Tibbats of Norfolk appointed Conductor by
Col Wadsworth. Mar 20.77- names of his teamsters
not entered on the Books
(same on our rolls)
May 20 Cash to Capt T. expenses of self &c & 9 Teamsters from Norfolk
to Hartford
same date Doct E Gilean inoculating 6 of T's Co.
        "62 whips bot of Tho. Tibbats
         "other a/cs for self & 9 teamsters
Page 38

1779 Feb 26, Capt T. 1 mos wages self & 10 Teamsters Apl ^22 77
                     $57.00
($15 per mo )
from June 1. $16

Hubbard's Journal
Aug 12-25-1778
Berridict[?] Courts
Page 39

                Hinesburgh V.t  Nov. 23d. 1853    
Sir    
         Inclosed you will receive the certificate
of Isaac Benham which I return for
the purpose of correction, supposing an error has
been made in rating his pay at $15, per month
when it should be $16. In my letter to you
of October 4th, I sent a copy of your letter to
J. R. Hitchcock Esq. of New York of the date of
June 7th 1853. admitting that to be the rate.
    In General Mifflins letter to General
Wadsworth dated Feby 6th 1777. he states the pay of teamsters would be of |$6| six pounds
Pennsylvania Currency per month which
is $16 - the amt promised Mr Benham before
his enlistment, and paid him after he enlisted
by Udney Hay and Capt. Tibbals & Rowland.
 I am very respectfully
Your Obt Servant
Henry Weed
Hon L. P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions}
Washington }
Page 40

No- 2
Page 41

State of Connecticut
Hartford September 29, 1853

  I Charles Hosmer Recording Secretary of
the Connecticut Historical Society do hereby certify,
that among the Manuscript Account Book formerly
belonging to the late Jeremiah Wadsworth Commissary General in the War of the Revolution, and
presented by his son, the late Daniel Wadsworth, Esq.
to said Society, is one which purports to be an
Account Book, containing accounts with Conductors
of Teams for Pay and Rations of the men
under their command, also a Ledger in which
these accounts are charged to Thomas Mifflin
Quarter Master General of the Army; among which
I find the following entries.
   It appears from the Teamster's Book, that
"Samuel Tibbals, of Norfolk", was appointed by Col.
Wadsworth, "a Conductor of Teams, March 20 1777"
[but the names of the Teamsters of his Company are
not entered on the Books]
"1777. May 20. To Cash paid Samuel Tibbals, for. Bill,
"Cash paid Expence of 9 Teamsters, himself and Horse,
"from Norfolk to Hartford, for Bill, $1.19.3."
" 1777. May 20. To Cash paid Samuel Tibbals,for. Bill,
"Cash paid Doct. Ephraim Guiteau for Innoculating
" 6 Teamsters under his command for. Bill, $4.4.0
Page 42

"1777. May 20. To Cash paid Jotham Parker for. Bill 
"62 whips bought of Thomas Tibbals, pr his Recpt,
                                                             $6.4.0."
"1777. Feb. 26. To Cash pd Samuel Tibbals for.Recpt
"To 1 months pay for himself & 10 Teamsters, Ap.2d
                                                                $57.00
"1777
"To 1 months pay for Thos Tibbals Cook, May 20, 1777, 
                                                                   $4.10.0         
"To Back Rations for myself and 9 Teamsters, May 20,
                                                          $16.13.10  1/4               
"1777.
"To 2 months wages for myself and of 9 Teamsters,
May 20th 1777.
                                                             $32.10."
Chas Hosmer, Rec Secy
Conn, Historical Society
State Connecticut}
Hartford County }ss,
On this 29th day of September
A.D. 1853 personally appeared Charles Hosmer
Esq. to me well known as a credible person
and made oath that the foregoing certificate of time, before me
Geo. Robinson
Notary Public
[circular seal affixed left]
Page 43

               Hartford, 28th July 1853.
Sir,
         Yours of the 23d inst making enquiry
for the name of Isaac Benham as Teamster
 in Capt. Tibbal's Co ^ w see? We have no List
of the names of this Company. Capt. Tibbals
is credited on the Books, in several instancy
for the services of the Co.. and the money paid
Capt. Tibbals', and charge him for"1 month's
pay for himself & 10 Teamsters, April 2. 1777. $57. "
The above I give as a sample of the
entries.
Yours &c.
E. Gleason
Henry N Weed, Esq.
Page 44

J. L Edwards Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City

Vt
[oval stamp on left "Burlington date[illegible] Vermont"]
Page 45

Burlington Augt 21. 1833
J L Edwards Esqr
I duly received your favor of
the 17th inst, on the subject of the Pension
claim of Isaac Benham, and hasten to
return you the enclosed deposition
the Hon. Bates Turner, - which I presume
will place this business right.-
I am sure there can be no imposition
on the part of Mr Benham, as he
is a highly respectable men, and Mr.
Turner who gives the enclosed deposition
is a gentlemen of the first standing in
our community and has been
Judge of our Supreme Court:- the
Deposition was not received when I forwarded
the papers of Mr. Benham

Respectfully yours
Nathan B Maswell

N.B. Judge Turner is on the Pension
Roll of this State - I hope the above
will receive your immediate attention, as it isa very old claim
Page 46

[circular stamp "FREE"]
L P Waldo, Esqr.
Commissioner Pensions 
Washington
D.C.
[circular stamp "Jericho Nov? Vt"
Page 47

Isaac Benham
V.t   32. Admr
             Dodge
Isaac Benham of Chittenden County Vermont
 pensioned under the law of June 7.1832-
I wish to examine his papers, I am
his agent
Henry Weed
Apl 18 - 1853
Page 48

                Pension Office
                     Nov 2, 1853

Sir
   Will you have the kindness to inform
me, at your earliest convenience, whether a
Revolutionary
pensioner named Isaac Benham
is now living in your town. If living, he is
about ninety-two years of age.
   Please to consider this communication
as strictly confidential.
I am sir &c
Post Master
Jericho    Vt
Page 49

Hon L P Waldo 
    Washington
Page 50

Hinesburgh August 5th 1853
Hon L P Waldo
Dear Sir
I was in the Pension office on the
19th of April last and called your attention to
the case of my neighbor Isaac Benham, pensioned
for service under Wadsworth at $80, I understood
you to admit that all who served in the Continental line under him for a period of two
years as teamster were entitled to increase &
such as were formerly pensioned at $80 for that
service it would not be necessary to introduce
any new testimony and that his case would be
decided on that principle when it should be
twat upon when reached
  I suppose that evidence [ words "that evidence" lined through] that it
that will entitle a man to a pension settles
due the amount according to the grade in which
he servicedd If there is any doubt that Mr Benham
served as he stated & for which he is pensioned
I think it will be removed by examing the books
in the Treasury as he state definitely he was paid
$6[?] Pennsylvania Currency per mo. for his service he finding
his own clothing - the last year (1778) in depriceted
Continental many-
I inclose the letter in answer to mine advised
Page 51

To the clerk in the Historical society and also a copy of the other from the office in order that you may examine it readily

I think Mr Bonham entitled to his (illegible) without subjecting him to further trouble -To none require rolls after so many conflagrations, seems to me to, reject the war entirely-

I am respectfully 
Yours obedient
Henry Weed
Page 52

Washington April 20, 1853

Sir

You will receive herewith the favor of Attorney and Affit of Isaac Benham a pensioner of the United States under the law of June 7, 1832

It will be found that he rendered two years service as a Continental Teamster and of course entitled to the amount promised and paid him for his service as such to (illegible) six pounds Pennsylvania in currency per Months (or sixten dollars per month) as he states in his affidavit before Elias Barker Esq.

I am respectfully
You Obt Servant
Henry Weed

Hinesburgh
Vermont

Hon L P Waldo
Cam Pensions
Present
⎬
Page 53

Payments to be made
at Burlington
by Pac. MS. Br. Bank
Agent for paying Pensioners,
in the Agency of Vermont.

Recorded in the Pension Office in Book C. Vol. 3.
Page 53 by W. L. Williams

Clerk.
Page 54

WAR DEPARTMENT.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIM.
I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June, 1832, Isaac Benham of the state of Vermont who was a Private in the Revolutionary War is entitled to receive eighty dollars and ~~ cents per annum, during his natural life, commencing on the 4th of March, 1831, and payable semi-annually on the 4th of March, and 4th of September, in every year.
Given at the War Office of the United States this thirty first day of August one thousand eight hundred and thirty three.
Lew Cass
Secretary of War.

Examined and Countersigned.} Geo Wm. Crump
Acting Commissioner of Pensions

39 years in Jerico previous in Armenia NY} Sept 1833
Page 55

Hinesburgh Oct 27. 1853

Sir
  Inclosed you will please find the
Certificate Isaac Benham, required
by your letter of the 20th inst.
I am respectfully your
Obt. servant
Henry Weed

Hon. L P Waldo}
Con. Pensions}
Washington}
Page 56

Isaac Benham
Vermont
Act June 7, 1832
For Increase.
Admitted 2 years
Teamster - Cont
service
at $180. per annum
from March 4, 1831.
deducting former payments
Agent
Henry Weed
Hinesburgh
Vt
Page 57

Brief in the case of Isaac Benham
Chittenden  County and State of Vermont
For Increase      act June 7. 1832


Claim, [(words "original, "or" are lined through] "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Isaac Benham originally alleged two
years 9 mos service of which 2 years was
Continental Team service - and was
pensioned for 2 yes service as private at $80.
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
New declaration-
Certif of Court Hist Society- Inspection of
Hubbards Journal in 1778-
(Wadsworth's rolls reexamined)

Name and residence of Agent
Henry Weed                                    S.G. Dodge
Hinesburgh                              Examining Clerk
Vermont
Page 58

(Copy)

Pension Office
July 16 1853

Sir
     I have examined and filed the application
of Isaac Benham a pensioner on the Vermont
Roll under the act of June 7th 1832 at the rate
of $80 per annum, for an increase of his stipend
on the ground that he served in the Brigade of
Continental Teamsters under Wadsworth and
in the company of Captain Samuel Tibbals
He alledged such service in his original declaration, but as we have no rolls of Tibballs
company in this office it will be necessary to
show from evidence which may be found among
the Wadsworth papers in the Office of the Connecticut Historical Secretary at Hartford that he was
attached to that company as alledged and was
paid at the rate of $16 per month When such
evidence is adduced the claim for increase will be
admitted
I am respectfully your
Obt. Sevt
L P Waldo 
Commissioner

Henry Weed Esq}
Hinesburgh}
Vermont}
Page 59

[faint writing] Give him $15 per month for 1 year &
11 months, [illegible]


The rate is $15 per month until June 77 & after
that $16 per month.
The a/c shows they were paid for 1 months'
service April 2d 77- from which it is inferable
that they actually served from March 2d
which would make the entire service just 2 years
to 29th Feby 1779-
Page 60

1 year & 11 Ms Teamster at $15
a month,
1 month pri. 3.33 1/3
Page 61

                              Jerico Vt Nov 7, 1853
L P Waldo Esqr
Dear Sir
  Yours of the 2d inst is
recd and in reply would say that
Mr Isaac Benham Revolutionary pensioner
is now living in this town and is said
to be ninety three years old-
Very respectfully your
Obedient Sevt
Geo B. Oakes P.M.
Page 62

[circular stamp " PENSION  U. Jun 6 1896  S. OFFICE"]

[rectangular stamp slightly overlaying circular stamp "OLD WAR & NAVY  Jun 9 1896  FILES"]
Page 63

B
Bureau of Pensions:
Department of Interior
Washington,
D.C.
Will you kindly give me a certificate of Isaac Benham's service in the Revolutionary War.
He received a pension until his death in 1863 The year before he died, aged 90, he received $100 ? each pay. He resided at Jericho Vt.
Very respectfully
Mrs Gerry [illegible]


Dec. 3, 188[illegible]
Page 64

Pension D
Jul 14 1902
U.S. Office
Page 65

F.S.C.
Old War and Navy Division
3-523
Department of the Interior
Bureau of Pensions
Washington D.C. July 8, 1902
Madam
In reply to your communication of a recent date, you are informed that this bureau is unable to furnish a history of the service of any soldier of the Revolutionary war or of the war of 1812 unless he or his widow was a pensioner or an applicant for pension or bounty land; and that under the rules such a history is furnished only to the soldier's descendants, and to them only when it is desired for historical or genealogical purposes.
The large number of inquiries made on this subject, and the length of time required to make a proper search of the records in each case, will not permit of information being given to any applicant concerning more than two soldiers.
In order that the soldier concerning whom you desire information may be identified, you are requested to furnish as much as possible of the data called for below.
(Isaac Benham)
Very respectfully,
E.F. Ware
Commissioner
Laura Wilson
114 E Prospect St.
Kewanee, Ill
Full name of soldier, Isaac Benham Ctf 17604-32
Where did he enter service? Connecticut
Under what officers did he serve? Col. Phillip B. Bradley
Place of residence after service? Jericho Vt.
Approximate date of death, Fall of 1853 - Jericho Vermont, Chittenton Co.
Given name of widow, Thankful Reed Benham
Did either the soldier or his widow receive a pension? Yes, the soldier
Additional information, He drew his pension at Burlington Vermont.
Died Dec. 7, 1853
Signature, Miss Laura Wilson
(Mrs. or Miss to be prefixed if a lady signs)
Post- office address, including street and number, town, county, and State.}
14554b3m5-1900

Laura Wilson