Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 20,920, John Connelly, N.C.
Page 1

(3 - 1776)
SERVICE N.C.
Connelly, John
NUMBER W. 20,920
of Conley, Jane
CONTENTS
Page 2

5. 011
North Carolina
Jane Conley
widow of
John Conley
who died on the
of N C
in the State of
who was a Lieut in the Captn
commanded
by Captain
of the
commanded
by
in the
line for
Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll of Ashville
at the rate of 160 Dollars -- Cents
per annum, to commence on the 4
day of March, 1831, ending 30 Oct, 1851 
Increased from $120.
Certificate of Pension issued the 26 day of
Nov. 1852
and sent
to M. Thompson Present
Arrears to the 4th of

Semi-annual allowance ending --

Revolutionary Claim,
Act July 4, 1836,
Section the

Recorded by R. McRae Clerk
Book D
Vol. 2
Page 38.
Page 3

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the 3d section of
the Law of the United States of the 4th July 1836
State of North Carolina
Mac Dowell County 

On this 31st day of July one thousand
Eight hundred and forty four, 1844, personally appeared
before us, David Chandler & Aden Carver, two of the acting Magistrates in and for said County of MacDowell,
Jane Conley, a resident of the County and State aforesaid
aged Eighty nine (89) years, who being
first duly sworn
according to Law, doth, on her oath, make the following
declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision
made by the act of Congress passed July 4th 1836.
That she is the widow of John Conley late deceased
of Burke County North Carolina, who was a Captain in the
North Carolina Militia in the War of the Revolution, that lived in
said County and State, and served the United States, under
General Rutherford, Colonel MacDowell and other officers, as follows: in the year 1776 the said John Conley commanded a
Company of Cavalry, under General Rutherford that went from
Rowan County with Gen Rutherford to the Cherokee Nation again
at the Indians. The next regular tour of duty was the
campaign known as the siege of ninety six in South Carolina
at which time the said John Conley served as first Lieutenant
under Captain Welch, holding at the same time a Captains Commission, and it was under the following circumstances
Page 4

that said Capt John Conley came to serve as Lieutenant, Captain
Welch and Captain Conley, met with their companies at the time
they were to start on the aforesaid Campaign, and these companies
being small thy aggreed to consolidate them [crossed out] and
to cast lots to see who should act as Captain, while the other
was to be Lieutenant, and it fell to the lot of said Conley to be
the Lieutenant. The next and third tour of duty was in the
year 1781 said Capt John Conley Served a Tour at the head of
the River in Burke County. This declarant further stated that
her said husband the aforesaid John Conley was engaged a large
portion of his time in the service during the struggles of the Revolution, but the above are all the regular tour that he performed.
This declarant further stated that she has his papers
or Record Evidence showing the above claimed service of her said husband John Conly, that since the Revolution they have had their
house burned together with all her husbands papers that related to his services in the Revolution.
She further declared that she was married to the
said John Conley in Rowan County North Carolina, in August
in the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy three, 1773, that her
husband the aforesaid John Conley died on the 16th day of July
Eighteen hundred & twenty six, and that she has remained a widow
ever since that period as will more fully appear by refference to the proof hereto annexed.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first
above written before us
D Chandler ss
A Carver ss

Jane
Conley
her mark X
Page 5

State of North Carolina
MacDowell County 

Be it known that we David Chandler &
Adien Carver two of the acting Magistrates in and for said County
do hereby certify that Jane Conley who has this day sworn to
and subscribed the foregoing declaration before us is a person
to whose statements is due full faith and credit
We further certify that she is by reason of old age and
bodily infirmity unable to go to the Court house to make her
said declaration. Given under our hand and seals this 31st day of July A.D. 1844
D Chandler ss (seal)
A Carter ss (seal)

State of North Carolina
MacDowell County  SS

I, S. J. Neal Clerk of the Court of
Pleas & Quarter Sessions for said County do hereby certify that the
foregoing declaration of Jane Conley, widow of the late John
Conley deceased, was this day laid before the Court aforesaid now
selling in & for said County, and was examined and approved
by the Court. Whereupon the Court ordered that the Clerk certify the same
to the War Department.
I do further certify that D. Chandler and A. Carver before
whom the foregoing declaration was proven are acting Magistrates
in & for said County of MacDowell as above and that the foregoing
signatures purporting to be theirs are genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed
my name and affixed my seal of Office at Office
this 31st day of July 1844.
Saml. J Neal Clk
Page 6

State of North Carolina
MacDowell County

On this 29th day of January 1845
personally appeared before me Wm M. Carson, one of the acting
Magistrates in and for the County aforesaid, Joseph Connelly
to resident of the County of MacDowell aged 44 years, and made
oath in due form of law, that he is a son of Jane Connelly
a resident Citizen of said County, the widow of the late John
Connelly, who is now applying for a Pension due to her on
the account of her said husband Revolutionary services, and
that this deponent has now in his possession the old family bible belonging to the parties aforesaid, containing a Record of
the ages of their children, a part of which the following is a true copy.  "W Connelly son of John and Jane Connelly was born
June 22 In the year 1774, Mary Connelly was born October 29th In the year of our Lord 1776," and the original is hereunto appended.
And this deponent further stated on his said Oath
that the above mentioned Family Record of John & Jane Connelly
is in the hand writing of the said John Connelly and that
he believes it to be correct and true.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first
above written before me
Joseph Connelly
Wm M. Carson J.P.
Page 7

State of North Carolina
MacDowell County ss 
I, W. M. Carson, a Magistrate in
and for the County aforesaid do hereby certify that I am well
acquainted with Joseph Connelly who has this day sworn to
and subscribed the foregoing affidavit before me, and that
he is a gentleman of Intelligence and Respectability and to
his statements is due the utmost confidence
Given under my hand this 29th day of January 1845.
Wm M. Carson J.P.
State of North Carolina
McDowell County 
I, Samuel J. Neal Clerk of the
Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid
do hereby Certify, that W. M. Carson Esqr whose signature
appears above is an acting Justice of the Peace in and
for said County and that the foregoing signatures
purporting to be his are genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto
subscribed my name and afixed my
Seal of Office this 30 day of January
A.D. 1845
Saml. J Neal Clk
Page 8

Mary Connelly
[illegible]
Page 9

Lease of Jane Conley
decd. widow of Cpt. John Conley decd. of No. Car.
M. Thompson
Atty
Page 10

State of North Carolina
County of Burke
Court of Pleas and Quarter
Session Fall Term, 1852.
J. W. S. Suddreth Clerk of the Court
of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County of
Burke and State aforesaid, do hereby certify, that
satisfactory evidence has been exhibited before the
Court aforesaid that Jane Conley Widow of John Conly
was a revolutionary pensioner of the United States at the rate of $120 per annum, and that she died at her late residence in the County of McDowell &
State of North Carolina, on the thirtieth day of October, Eighteen hundred and fifty one, leaving surviving Allen Conley, Joseph Conley and Susannah Sherril [illegible]
now the only living children of the said
Jane Conley decd. and all of lawful ages.

I also certify that R. C. Pearson, Esquire
before whom the annexed power of Attorney was
acknowledged, and affidavit made, is and was
at the time of signing the same an acting
Justice of the Peace as stated, and that the foregoing
signatures purporting to be his are genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto
set my hand and affixed my seal
of office, at office in Morganton this
17th day of November, 1852,
Wm S. Sudderth Clk
Page 11

PAGE 1.
POWER OF ATTORNEY - Revolutionary Pension Claims,
Know all Men by these Presents, That I, Joseph Conley of
the County of MacDowell in the State of
N.C. Son and Heir of Jane Caley decd.
late Pensioner of the U.S.
hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint M. THOMPSON, Esq., of Washington City, D. C., my true
and lawful Agent and Attorney, to prosecute the Claim of the decd. Jane
for any amount of Revolutionary Penson, or Increase of Pension, that may be due; and I hereby
authorize my said Agent to examine all papers and documents in relation to said claim, on file
in the Departments at Washington City, or elsewhere; to file additional evidence or arguments;
and to receive the Certificate which may be issued for said Claim, and appoint one or more substitutes
for the purposes herein expressed; and to do all things that I might or could do
were I personally present. Hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said Attorney and Agent
shall lawfully do in the premises, and revoking all former powers.

WITNESS my hand and Seal this 17 day Nov
A. D., 1852,  J. Conley
Signed and sealed in the presence of
G.A. Bettis
Joseph Reid

State of North Carolina
County of Burke
On this 17th day of November A.D. 1852
before me, the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, personally appeared
Joseph Conley and acknowledged the foregoing Power of Attorney to be
his act deed for the purposes therein mentioned.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand,
the day and year aforesaid.
R.C. Pearson 
J. Peace
Page 12

PAGE 2
-
STATE of North Co
County of Burke

Be it Known, That on this 17th day of Nov
A. D., eighteen hundred and fifty two before the
undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared
Joseph Conley a resident of McDowell County, and
made oath according to law that he is the identical Joseph Conley
son of Jane Conley
who executed the foregoing
power of attorney, and that he is directly interested in said claim, and makes this affidavit to be
filed with additional evidence or arguments as said Agent may use in prosecuting said claim.
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and
year aforesaid, before J. Peace.
Jo. Conley
R.C. Pearson

I, R.C. Pearson, Justice of the Peace, in and for said County do hereby
certify that Joseph Carey who executed the foregoing paper is
respectable resident of the County aforesaid and is, I believe, directly interested in said claim as therein set forth.
R. C. Pearson
J. Peace.

I, [blank],
Clerk of the
Court in the Country and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that [blank]
before whom the foregoing
papers were executed, was, at the date of the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County,
duly authorized by law to administer oaths; and the name thereunto subscriber, is
signature.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto subscribed my name and
affixed my official Seal, this [blank] day of
A. D., 185[blank].
Page 13

March 10, 1938
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
John Connelly, W.20920
BA-J/MS

Miss Louise Connelly
291 Chestnut Street
Asheville, North Carolina

Dear Madam:
The data which follow were obtained from papers on file in the
pension claim, W.20920, based upon the Revolutionary War service of John
Connelly or Conley,

The date and place of his birth and the names of his parents were
not given.
While a resident of Burke County, North Carolina, he was commissioned
captain and from May or June, 1776, served three or four months
in command of a company of North Carolina cavalry in a tour against the
Cherokee Indians. In the spring of 1781 he volunteered and served three
months as first lieutenant in Captain Wells' or Welch's company in
Colonel McDowell's North Carolina regiment and was in the siege of Ninety-six. In the fall of 1781 he served three months as captain of the fort in
Burke County, North Carolina, under Colonel McDowell. He also went out
frequently with a company scouting along the frontiers, no details given.
He died July 16, 1826, in Burke County, North Carolina. His age
at any period, was not given.
This soldier married in 1772 or August, 1773, in Rowan County,
North Carolina, Jane Ballew.
As the widow of John Connelly or Conley, Jane Connelly or Conley
was allowed pension on her application executed July 31, 1844, while
living in McDowell County, North Carolina, aged eighty-nine years.
Jane Connelly or Conley died October 30, 1851, in McDowell County,
North Carolina,
Page 14

Reference was made to the following children of John and Jane
Connelly or Conley: William who was born June 22, 1774, Mary who was
born October 9, 1776, George, Allen, Joseph who in 1845 was aged forty-
four years and was living in McDowell County, and Susannah Sherrill.
The last three survived their mother.
In 1844 one John Gibbs, resident of Burke County, North Carolina,
stated that he married a sister of Captain John Conley in 1776. In 1844
one Rebecca Gibbs who was aged eighty-eight years and a resident of
Burke County, North Carolina, stated that she married in 1776 and that
she was present at the marriage of Captain John Conley and Jane Ballew.
She did not say she was the sister of John Conley,
In 1844 one Stephen Ballew was a resident of Burke County, North Carolina
, but it was not stated that he was related to the widow, Jane.
In 1851 Mrs. Rust and Mrs. Rutherford were referred to as sisters
of the widow, Jane Connelly or Conley.
In 1852 David Ballew testified in Yancey County, North Carolina,
but it was not shown that he was related to the widow, Jane Connelly or
Conley.

Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator
Page 15

Let to G. W. Hardin May 22d 1846 [illegible]
Page 16

Raleigh N.C.
Nov 28 1845
Compt Office
I William F Collins Comptroller of Public Accounts
in and for the State of North Carolina do hereby
certify that the name of John Conoly appears
of record in this office as having had placed
in his favor the following Specia certificate
for Military service (Viz) One for Sixteen Pounds
Eight Shillings and six pence (£16.8.6) See Book
No 14 page 101. Another in Book S No 3 page 21
for Two Pounds Seventeen shillings and six pence
(£2.17.6) Also in Book A. No 15 page 15 another
for Four Pounds three shillings (£4.3). Also his
name appears in a Book of certificate issued
by the Comptroller in 1789 & 90 for Militia Service
for Two Pounds seventeen Shillings and six pence (£2.17.6). It also appears in Book G. No 18 that J. Conoly recived a certificate for Twelve
Pounds (£12) see page 10 - given under my
hand and seal this the day and date
above written
Wm. Collins Compt

16.8.6
2.17.6
4.3
2.17.6
12
______
38.6.6
Page 17

Payment to be made
at Fayetteville
by James Hurke Esq
Agent for paying Pensioners
, in the Agency of N.C.

Recorded in the Pension
Office, in Book D Vol.
2 Page 380 by
H. E. Robinson Clerk
Page 18

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIM.
I certify that, in conformity with the 3d section of
the law of the United States, of the 4th July, 1836,
Jane Conley
of N. C.
widow of John Conley
who was a Captain in the Revolution
is entitled to receive One Hundred & twenty dollars and -- cents per annum, during the time she may remain
unmarried, commencing on the fourth day of March
A.D. 1831, and payable semi-annually on the 4th of
March and 4th of September.

Given at the Department of the Interior,
this Seventh
day of
April
one thousand eight
hundred and fifty one
Alex H. H. Stuart
Secretary of the Interior.

Examined and
Countersigned.}
J.E. Heath
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 19

Morganton No. Carolina
May 7" 1845
Sir 
I have been informed by my Agent H. H.
Sylvester Esqr. of your City, that you call for the Bible
containing the Family Record of John & Jane Conelly
a part of which record I have sent to your office on
former occasion as evidence in support of the date
of the marriage of the parties above named.
I now in conformity with your request
inclose with this note the said Bible for your examination
and I am particularly enjoined upon by the old lady to
request of the Comr. of Pensions to return to her again her
Bible togeather with that part of the Record that has taken
from the Book, that said bible has been a long time in
the Family and containing as it does a Record of the
ages of her children and that too written by the hand of
her deceased husband are reasons why she is unwilling to
part with it.
You complyance with the above will much
oblige all parties interested
I am very Respectfully yours
Sylvester Bettis
J. L. Edwards Esqr
Comr. of Pensions
Washington City
Page 20

Brief in the case of Jane Conley and of John
County and State of N.C.
act 4 July 1836.
Claim, ("original," or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)

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

This claim has been allowed for six months
as Capt. M. Thompson appeals to the Secy. for the
allowance of the 3 months claimed as Lieut.
I consider the evidence for the 3 mo: Let just as
good as the 6 mo Capt. I therefore allow it without
sending paper to Secy. It increases the claim $40
per ann:

(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim?  If so, what?


Name and residence of Agent
M. Thompson
Present,
F. F. Kirby
Examining Clerk.
Page 21

State of North Carolina
Burke County
I, J. D Ferree Clerk of the Court
of pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County
hereby certify that I am well acquainted with
John Gibbs a resident citizen of the
County and State aforesaid a revolutionary pensioner of the United States whose affidavit
was taken before me some eighteen months
age while an acting Justice of the peace
in support of the Revolutionary services
of Capt John Conley Late Decd of the
County of Burke and State aforesaid whose
widow June is now applying for a pension
due to her as the widow of the aforesaid John
Conley decd.
I do further certify that the
aforesaid witness John Gibbs is a regular
ordained Minister of the Gospel and has been
for the last forty years during which time
he has always supported an unblemished character as such and notwithstanding his advanced age
he still possess a reserves and good mind and
that to his statements is due full faith and
credence.
In witness whereof I have
here unto subscribed my name
and affixed my seal of office
at office in Morganton
this 7th January 1846
J D Ferree Clerk
Page 22

Jan 15, 1846
Adalter case
Jane Conly

[illegible]

S.L. & A.T. Smith
Present.
Page 23

Washington D C
15 January 1846
Sir,
We have the honor to file the
enclosed additional testimony in the case of my
Jane Conly, widow of Capt John Conly of North Carolina
, which we hope will prove satisfactory
We are very respectfully
your Obt. Servt.
T L & A Tho Smith
L Edwards Esq
Comm of Pensions
Page 24

(Copy)
Washington January 25th 1851
I have been authorized and requested,
respectfully to solicit your earliest action
upon the claim of Jane Conley, widow of Capt.
John Conley of North Carolina, for a pension
under act of July 4th 1836, and that the same
be reported to me.
The meritorious
character of this claim is
conclusively shown
by the certificate of the Comptroller Gen. of
North Carolina, on file in the case, clearly indicating
an amount (nine and a half months) of service
not inferior to that for which she claims. 
From her declarations made 31st July and
28th Dec. 1845, it appears that her husband, the
said Conley, served in the revolutionary war, "three
or four months from May or June to September
1776.  This is fully confirmed by the
affidavit of Johnathan McPeters, of N.C.
a revolutionary pensioner, who served with
said Conly during that tour.
William Gillespie is scarcely less conclusive on this point.
The Rev. Stephen Ballew, a revolutionary
pensioner, always understood and believed

This tour has been admitted being his first tour.
Page 25

the above to be true.
2d count & not admitted
She declares that her husband

next performed a tour of three months,
as Lieut. during the siege of ninety six in
S. C. which is confirmed by the affidavit of
Johnathan McPeters.
The Rev. S Ballew
and John Gibbs revolutionary
pensioners
testify to the same effect
---
3rd count.  Third tour admitted.
Conly's third hour of "three or four
months" was performed in 1781, as per declaration.

The above named John Gibbs testifies
that he served under Conley during this last
tour.  Making in all "not less than nine
months and a half," for which Jane Conley claims a pension; to say nothing of other
important services in "various scouting parties,"
all of which is clearly established, by disinterested, unimpeached, and unimpeachable witnesses.

That the said John Conly was captain
during the time for which Jane Conley claims,
(except the three months tour in S.E. when
he was Lieut.) is conclusively shown, by the testimony
of all the above named persons on file.
There will certainly be no question, that
Page 26

John Conly died on the "16th July 1836"
as appears in the declaration.
Thus every
material point in this case is clearly established.
There is a perfect harmony and consistency
in the testimony throughout
If Jane Conley,
Johnathan McPeters, Joseph Conley, William Gillespie
John Gibbs, Rebecca Gibbs and the Rev. Stephen
Ballew, have testified "to the truth, and nothing but
the truth," then Jane Conley is entitled to a pension
for her husband, John Conley's services in the war
of the Revolution for six or six months and a
half as Captain, and for three months as Lieut.
making nine months and a half in all, for
which she claims.
The rejection of her claim
will set the broad seal of perjury upon the
as
lips of these revolutionary heroes and witnesses,
so far as your action can if such a stigma.
In Bacon's Abridgement Vol. 3 page 507 "It
is holden by my Lord Cheif Justice Holt, that
at common law it was not necessary in any
case, that a proof of any matter of fact
should be made by more than one witness,
and that the single testimony of one credible
witness was sufficient to prove any fact."
It is the constant practice of the courts of
Page 27

equity in England and in this country, to ground
their decrees upon the testimony of a single
witness.
The eclesiastical Courts of
England were also compelled to observe these
rules. Vide the authority above referred to.
Upon every rule, therefore, of law and judicial
proof now in force in England, and in this
County, the evidence upon every material point
in this case is conclusive, enough and more than
enough.
Jane Conly being now, some
ninety six years of age, and I understand, very
poor, and her claim having slumbered in your office
some half a dozen years, it is very confidently hoped
your earliest attention to the same will smoothe
her way to that tomb to which she is hastening.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt. Servt.
(Signed)
M. Thompson
Page 28

First Greenleaf on Evidence
Page 230
"For the plaintiff, by calling
on the defendant to answer an
allegation
which he makes
thereby admits the answer
to be evidence.
In such
case if the defendant in
exprest terms negatives
the allegations in the bill, and
the bill is supported by the
evidence of only a Single Witness
affirming
what has been so decreed,
the
[illegible]
neither make a decree nor
send the case to be tried as Law
our will simply dismist the bill.
By the
Page 29

corroborating
testimony of
an additional Witness, or
of circumstances, May give
a true either way to the balance.
And even the evidence
arising
from circumstances
alone
may be stronger
then the testimony of any
Single Witness."
Page 30

Washington Mar. 23rd 1852

Hon Jas. E. Heath
Commiss'r of Pensions
Dear Sir
Some five or six months
since I filed 
additional evidence, I requested on behalf of
the claimant, a reexamination
the claim of Jane Conley, Widow
of Capt. John Conley
of No. Car.
since which, have not heard
from the case.
I have the honor to be
most respectfully
your obt. servt.
M. Thompson
Page 31


Washington July 20th 1852

Hon. James E Heath
Commiss'r of Pensions
Sir
More than
twelve
months since, Jane Conley
Widow of Capt. John Conley of No. Car.
was placed on the
pension rate under act of 1838
at a lower rate that she
appeared to be entitled to a
Reexamination of her claim
& an increase of her pension
was consequently called for
some ten or twelve months
since, & additional evidence
filed in the case, & yet no
reexamination of the claim has
been made.
Your earliest
Page 32

attention to which, (having
as it is believe, been accidentally
overlooked) is most respectfully solicited.
I have the honor
to be most
respty
your obt. st.
M. Thompson
Page 33

My dear Sir,
After so long
a time I enclose herewith
testimony in support of the
respectability of Jonathan McPeters whose
evidence is material in the claim of Jane Conley
for an increase of pension.
This is about as
as I can
good
do, and hope you
May
be able to make it available.
Mr McDowell whose name
first appears to the affidavit
is quite a [illegible] - has
frequently been a member
the Genl Assembly of our
State, and is a very correct
and worthy man -- the
other Deponents are men
of character and respectable standing in the community where they reside.
our Representative Hon.
Page 34

Mr Clingman will no
doubt satisfy the Dept
should they desire any
information
as to the character
of the parties who
have [illegible] to the [illegible]
closed affidavit.
yours very truly
R.C. Pearson
Morganton
30 May 1852
Page 35

15
Washington
Sept 23, 1852
M. Thompson
Relative to the claim
of Jane Connelly
widow Capt John
Conelly of N.C.
Refd to Com of Pensions
for a Report
Dept Int
Sep 24 /52
Recd Sept 23. 1852
Page 36

Washington Sept. 22nd 1832
Hon. A. H. H. Stuart
Secretary of the Interior
Sir
I am instructed to appeal to you
from the decision of the Commissioner
of Pensions in the case of Jane Conley, widow
of Captain John Conley of N.C.
By reference to the papers on
file in the case, you will find
that she was admitted on the
pension roll for six months service
as Captain, being the first" and "third"
tours declared for and referred to in a
copy of my letter to the Commissioner,
herewith inclosed [enclosed]; rejecting his "second" tour of three months as Lieut. which
last mentioned tour, you will see, is
clearly established by a higher degree of
evidence, if possible, than that upon
which the other two tours were
properly admitted to have been performed.
This being the original state of the
case, it will, no doubt, strike you with
surprise, that a pension was not also
granted for this second tour of three months
service as Lieut. in South Carolina.
Page 37

That surprise will be increased
when you come to view the additional
evidence placed on file at different
times since in support of the present
demand for the proposed increase.
I have the honor to be be. (sic)
M Thompson
Atty for Conley
Page 38

copy
Washington Sept. 22nd 1852
Hon. A. A. H. Stuart
Secretary of the Interior
Sir
I am instructed to appeal to you from the
decision of the Commissioner of Pensions
in the case of Jane Conley widow of Capt.
John Conley of N.C.
By reference to the papers
on file in the case, you will find that
he was admitted on the pension roll for six
months service as Captain, being the "first"
and "third" tours declared for and referred to
in a copy of my letter to the Commissioner,
herewith inclosed [enclosed], rejecting his "second" tour of three months as Lieut.
which last mentioned tour is cle [crossed out] you will see is clearly established by a higher degree of evidence, if possible, than that
upon which the other two tours
were properly admitted to have
been performed. 
This being the original state of the case, it will
no doubt strike you with surprise
that a pension was not also granted
for this second tour of three months
Page 39

service as Lieut. in South Carolina.
That surpise will be increased
when you come to view the additional
evidence placed on file at different
times since in support of the present demand for
the proposed increase
I have the honor to be &c.
M. Thompson
Atty for Conley
Page 40

Washington Decr. 2d 1852

Hon: James E. Heath
Commr. of Pensions

Dear Sir
During the last two years, I have been
indefatigably, earnestly, and
almost constantly soliciting
an increase of the pension of
Jane Conley, Widow of Capt.
John Conley, of North Carolina
& some two months since, I
was officially advised, that the
pension would be increased,
upon the surrender of the old
certificate, which was done,
& there the matter rests.
The claim having been
Page 41

so long [? pending], and, (as I
suppose;) but few minutes
required to make out the
certificate, and put an end
to the case, & to the importunities
of the claimant, it is hoped the
certificate will be issued without
further unnecessary delay.
I have the honor
to be all
M. Thompson
Atty for Conley
Page 42

Washington Sept. 22nd. 1852
Hon. Jas. E. Heath
Commr. of Pensions
Sir
I have been compelled
in justice to Mrs. Conley
to address a letter to the
Hon. Secy. of the Interior,
of which I herewith inclose [enclose]
you a copy, so as to enable
you to reconsider if you
please, your action upon
the case, & grant the proposed
increase, which it is
perfectly clear from the
evidence, will be directed
by the Secy. Should you
allow the case to go up
on appeal. [illegible] 
original letter to you, & to
Page 43

Much reference is made in
my said letter to the Secy.
will be found on file in
your office in connection
with the papers in the case.
I have the honor to
be most respectfully
your obt. sert.
M. Thompson
Atty for Conley
Page 44

Jane Conley decd.
wid. of John
N.C.
Act 4 July 1836
Admd.
6 mo. Capt.  $120
3   "    Lieut      40
                     $160
per an:
Ending 30 October 1851
Deduct former paymts.
at the rate of $120 per
ann: payable to
Allen Conley,
Joseph Conley &
Susannah Sherril, only
surviving children.
Attwelle Lizey
Cert to
M. Thompson
Present.
Page 45

case desired
to be examined
by the Comr. of Pensions

J. D. H.
Page 46

cases which I [illegible] to the
commissioner of Pensions to
[illegible] upon. To wit:
Jane Watron
Christiana Dener
William Brown
Ann Lomers
Jane Conley widow
of Captn. Jno. Conley
Nicholas Chapman
Jno. D. Hawkins
Page 47

Hon T.L. Clingman
Care of (H. R. )
M. Thompson Esqr.
Page 48

My dear Sir,
M. Thompson Esq.
who will hand you this will
inform you of the state of
Mrs. John Connelly (or Conley)
application before the Dpt. for
a Pension in consequence of
the services of her husband
Capt. John Connelly in the War
of the Revolution-
Mr. T. has suggested to me
that if you were to satisfy
the Dpt. as to the character
and credibility of the applicant
and the witnesses it
would aid greatly in having
the claim favorably [illegible]
[illegible].
Feeling [illegible] [illegible]
and that you will have no
hesitation in certifying as to
the respectability and credibility 
of Mrs. Conley (mother
of George, Allen, and Jo. of
the No. Carol) as well as the [illegible]
of Old John Gibbs now
no more I Respectfully
request that you do so-
I do not now remember
who the other Witnesses were or
whether or not there were
others - [illegible] likely old Mrs.
Rust made an affidavit
touching the subject, if to
Page 49

her statement are entitled to
every degree of confidence-
Mrs. Rust is the sister of Mrs.
Conley - both were sisters to old
Mrs. Rutherford - I presume
you know the [illegible]

The fact is there can be
no mistake about old John
Conley - Old John Gibbs 
as well as I remember
said enough to satisfy any
one that he was a Capt.
in the War of the Revolution
Gibbs was a man of
first rate character- a
pious good old Methodist
Preacher and I think a
Christian if doing good
and serving God is the way
to become so

I hope you will take
[illegible] [illegible] to aid Mr.
T. in setting the parties
right before the Commissioner
of Pensions
Yours very Truly
R.C. Pearson
Morganton
NC
21 Feb 1851
Page 50

[ ? Notary ?] Dept. Feb. 28th 1851
I am well acquainted with R. C.
Pearson the author of this letter
and take pleasure in testifying to
his high standing as a man of intellect
and integrity, entitled to the fullest
credit. I also know the persons referred
to by him of the name of Conley and
Gibbs. They are highly respectable
and of first rate standing and I
have no doubt but that any statement
made by them is entitled to the fullest
credit.
Respectfully
T. L. Clingman
Page 51

R C Pearson [illegible]

M. Thompson Esq.
Washington
City

[circular stamp]
[illegible]
FEB
[illegible]

R.C. Peason
Feby. 21. 1837
ans. 3rd war
Page 52

My dear Sir,
In reply to your letter rec'd. by the last mail I have to inform you that before I can
reply satisfactorily to that part
relating to your fee I will
[illegible] I have to consult
with old Mrs. Conley or her
[illegible] - I have no hesitation
however in saying that for
any assistance you may
give the claim you will
be satisfactorily compensated -
What - and [illegible] she be
entitled to [illegible] pr annum in
the [illegible] of her claim being
allowed? Would 5 [illegible] be 
satisfactory compensation [illegible] for
our trouble?
I think I mentioned to you
in a former letter
that a friend of mine in[crossed out]
now in California had the
main agreement of this claim
-he done considerable labor
and mind you [illegible] [illegible]
liberal Commissions - of course
this would be right- I
know very well that he [illegible]
be satisfied with whatever I
[illegible] do, and I have no
wish or desire than to act
as liberally towards you as
I may be authorised [authorized] by
the old Lady Conley
Page 53

I therefore in compliance
with your suggestion we
[illegible] a letter to our Representative
Restation on the subject
and hope with the aid
of his, [crossed out] he may be able
to give you that you
will succeed in having
the claim allowed
he can have no
hesitation in saying old
Mrs. Conley is a lady
of as much character
and standing in [illegible]
as any in his District
and for intelligence
has from equal of her
age any where

As I was desirous of [illegible]
you by return mail
please excuse the
[illegible] much which [illegible]
is done
Yours Respectfully
R. C. Pearson

Morganton NC
21 Febry. 1851
Page 54

Washington Feby 5th 1851
Sir
W
I have the honor of
your letter of 1st [illegible]
in juxtaposition with "copy of a letter from" your office, "of the 19th January 1846, showing the grounds upon which the claim
of Jane Conley has been resisted."
The report made by your predecessor
in office, it will be seen by
a single glance at the testimony on
file in the case, is based upon an
isolated portion of the testimony
upon which the validity of the
claim does not depend
Upon every principle of
judicial proof, the claim of Jane
Conley is clearly established, indep-
Page 55

-endent of the certificate of the
comptroller general of North
Carolina, to which the report
seems to be confined.
The certificate of the comptr.
genl. corroborates a claim
supported by the testimony of
Jane Conley, Jonathan McPeters, Joseph Conley, Rebecca Gibbs, John Gibbs, John Gibbs [crossed out] and the Rev. Stephen Ballew and might
safely be stricken from the record
Without the least detriment to the case, if the claim could be taken upon de novo, and examined upon its merits, according to the very
high authorities upon the law of who the
evidence adverted to in the remarks
which I had the honor to submit
in the case in my communication
Page 56

of the 23rd [illegible] but of which
no notice appears to have been
taken.
It is therefore confidently
hoped the claim of Jane Conley
Will be taken up as soon as practiceable, and examined as above suggested
upon its merits, without reference to Col. Edward's decision.
I have the honor to be very
respectfully your obt. serv.
part
M. Thompson

To
Hon. J. E. Heath
commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.
Page 57

Pension Office
Feb. 1st 1851.
Sir;
The enclosed copy of a letter from this office
to T.L. and A. Smith of the 19th January 1846, will
shew [show] the grounds upon which the claim of Jane Conley has been resisted. No further evidence has since been filed.
I am respectfully,
Your Obt. Sevt.
F. S. Evans
For Commr. of Pensions.

M. Thompson Esq.
Present-
Page 58

Pension Office
January 19th 1846
Gentlemen,
The certificate of the Comptroller of North Carolina forwarded by you in the case of Jane
Conley, shews [shows] that John Conley received for his military service in that state, certificates amounting to [English pound symbol] 38.66. This, if it be admitted as having been paid to claimant's husband would shew [show] only about two months service as a commissioned officer, which is not sufficient to entitle applicant to a pension.

Messers. [Messrs.] T. L. & A. Thos. Smith
Present-
Page 59

Washington City Jany. 23rd 1837
Sirs
I have been authorized and
requested, respectfully to solicit
your earlier action upon the
claim of Jane Conley, Widow
of Capt. John Conley, of North Carolina, for a pension, under act of July 4th 1836, and that 
the same be reported to me.
The meritorious character
of this claim is conclusively shown
by the certificate of the comptroller
general of North Carolina, on
file in the case, clearly indicating
an amount ("nine & a half months")
of service, not inferior to that for
which she claims.
From her declarations made on
Page 60

2

the 21st July 1844, & 28th December
1845, it appears that her husband,
the said John Conley, served in the
revolutionary War, "Three or four
months," from "May or June, to
September 1776,"
This is fully confirmed by the affidavit of
Jonathan McPeters, of N.C. a revolutionary
pensioner, who served with said Conley during that tour.
William Gillispie's testimony is scarcely less conclusive upon this point.
The Rev. Stephen Ballew, a revolutionary pensioner, "always understood" & believed the above "to be true."
She declares that her said husband
next performed a tour of "three
months", as lieutenant, during
and at the siege of Ninety Six, in
Page 61

3

South Carolina, which is confirmed
by the affidavit of Jonathan McPeters:
The Rev. J. Ballew, & John Gibbs testify to the same effect.
Conley's third tour of "three or four months," was performed in 1787, as per declaration.
The above named John Gibbs, testifies
that he served under Conley during this last tour;
making in all "not less than nine & a half 
month's", for which Jane Conley, claims a
pension; to say nothing of other important services in "various scouting parties," all of which
is most clearly established, by disinterested, unimpeached, and unimpeachable witnesses.
That the said John Conley, was
Page 62

4
 
Captain during the time for which
his widow claims, (except the three
months tour in So. Car. when he
was lieutenant) is conclusively
shown, by the testimony of all
the above named persons on file.
The declaration that the marriage
of John & Jane Conley took place
"in 1773," is abundantly supported
by Rebbecca Gibbs, who was present 
at the nuptials; the affidavit
of Joseph Conley, and the bible
containing the family record, which
it is said, was forwarded to the pension
office in 1845, and the affidavit
of the Rev. J. Ballew & John
Gibbs.
There will certainly be no
question, that John Conley died
on the "16th July 1826" as appears in
the declaration.
Page 63

5

Thus every material point in
this case, is clearly established.
There is a perfect harmony
and consistency in the testimony
throughout.
If Jane Conley, Jonathan McPeters, Joseph Conley, William Gillispie, John Gibbs,
Rebecca Gibbs & the Rev. Stephen Ballew
have testified "to the truth, and
nothing but the truth," then Jane
Conley is entitled to a pension
for (her husband,) John Conley's service
in the War of the revolution,
for six or six & a half months, as
Captain, & for three months, as
lieutenant, making "nine months & a half"
in all for which she claims.
The rejection of her claim
Page 64

6

thus made, will set the broad seal
of perjury upon the lifes of these
Revolutionary heroes & witnesses,
so far as your action can fix
such a stigma.
In "Balon's Abridgement,"
Vol. 3. page 507,"
"It is holden by my Lord Chief Justice Holt,
that as common law, it was not
necessary in any case, that a
proof of any matter of fact, should
be made by more than one witness,
and that the single testimony of
one credible witness was sufficient
to prove any fact."
It is the constant practice of
the courts of equity in England,
and in this country, to ground
their decrees upon the testimony
of a single witness.
Page 65

7

The ecclesiastical Courts of England
were also compelled to observe
these rules.
Rule the authority above referred to.
Upon every rule, therefore,
of law & judicial proof, now
in force in England and in this
country, the evidence upon
every material point in this
case, is conclusive - Nay it
is cumulative - It is enough & more than enough!

Jane Conley being now some ninety six years of age, and I understand very poor, and her claim having slumbered in your office, some five or six years, it is very confidently [illegible]
that your earliest attention
Page 66

8

to the same will smooth her way to the tomb - 
to which she is hastening. 
I have the honor to be
[illegible] very respectfully
your obt. servt.
M. Thompson

To
Hon. James E. Heath
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
Page 67

[circular seal]
MORGANTON NC.
JAN 31

FREE
[illegible]
R. C. Pearson


M. Thompson Esqr.
Atty. at Law
Washington City
D.C.

R. C. Pearson
Jany. 21st 1857
ansd. Feby. 12 '57
Page 68

My dear Sir,
Your favor by last mail
was duly recd. I am glad to learn
that you consider the prospect of
establishing Mrs. Conleys claim
not altogether hopeless - I 
have forgotten at what point
we left off - What I mean
by that, is I forget the last objection
our old friend Edwards made to it - I hope
you may be able to have favorably 
considered and finally allowed - I
am not aware of any additional proof that
can be had had here as to the services 
of John Connelly - John Gibbs who was a
pensioner himself establishes the facts of his
of his service - Gibbs was a man of [illegible], 
a good old Methodist Preacher and a man
of as much character as any in Burke County - the very salt of the earth - -

As to the Bounty Land
claims I will be able to
send you two or three before
a great while - we
have so many business men
in our part of the country
and [illegible] patriotic
that I believe most of the
Page 69

soldiers of the late war have
had their business [illegible] 
gratuitously or the [illegible] thing to
it
I shall be happy to hear
from you on the subject
of Mrs. Conley's application
and if I can do or
have any thing done to
advance it please inform me
With great respect
Yr obt. servt.
R. C. Pearson

Morganton NC
31 Jan 1857
Page 70

State of North Carolina }
Yancey County }
Be it known
that on the 25 day of May A.D. 1852 before
me the undersigned a Justice of the
Peace in and for the County aforesd.
personally came James McDowell
David Ballew and Wm. Bradshaw
to me well known and
men of character and respectability 
whose statements under
oath I consider entitled to
my confidence and who being
duly worn according to law
declare that they were acquainted 
with Jonathan McPeters
now decd. that he was considered 
and recognized to
have been a soldier of the Revolution, that he was placed on the Revolutionary Pension
Roll and during his lifetime
drew a pension to which he
was considered justly entitled
that in addition to his having been
a Patriot in Revolutionary
times of which they have no
doubt - Deponent further say
that for many years before his
death he lived in the County 
of Yancey and that he
sustained the character of
an honest - correct- man
that from their knowledge
of the said Jonathan McPeters
any statement made by
Page 71

on oath as to his services during the
War of the Revolution or the services
of his companions in arms 
would be true and therefore
entitled to respect, confidence
and credit

These Deponents State that 
the said Jonathan McPeters
lived near them for many
years, that the statements
made by them as to his character
are not derived from
mere here say only, but they
have no hesitation in saying
that they know of 
[illegible] [illegible] knowledge (that he
merited the character of
an honest man and altho [although]
poor and obscure was
a man of truth and worthy
of credit when on oath.
Sworn to & Subscribed before me
date first above written
Jas. McDowell
David Ballew
Wm. Bradshaw

Test.
David Byrd JP
Page 72

State of North Carolina }
Yancey County }
I E H Honeycutt clerk of
the Court of Pleas and
Quarter Sessions of said County do hereby certify that David Byrd whose name appears to the foregoing was at the time of signing the same and is now an acting Justice of the peace of said County
was duly commissioned and sworn according to
law and I believe the signature purporting to be
his is genuine
in Testimony whereunto I do
herby [hereby] affix my seal of office and
Subscribe my name at office in
Burnsville the 26th of May 1852
E. H. Honeycutt C.C.O
Page 73

Aug. 29, 1848

Ree el
Jane Connelly.

J. L. Edwards Esq.
Commr. of Pensions

P

86 yrs
Page 74

Washington D C
27 Augt. 1845
Sir,
In the matter of the application of Mrs.
Jane Connelly widow of Capt. John Connelly of
North Carolina for a pension under the act of
1836, we have the honor to request that a reexamination may be made of the proofs on file and also of those upon which a pension was granted to John Gibbs who was a private in Capt. Connelley's Company, and whose affidavit in this case is very full. Mr. Gibbs is a highly respectable gentleman and a clergyman of high standing in his neighborhood. It is in evidence that Capt. Connelly's commission with all his papers were lost by the burning of his dwelling house, and the records at Raleigh are said to be incomplete. Upon a careful examination of the evidence in this case we think you cannot fail to conclude that there is not the shadow of a doubt that John Connelly the claimant's husband was a Captain, and, as we have satisfactorily (as we think) accounted for the loss of his commission, we respectfully submit
Page 75

that his widow should not be prejudiced in consequence of the loss of the record testimony, especially as those who served under him are now drawing pensions, which could not have been granted to them if there had not been satisfactory proof that Connelly was a
Captain. We sincerely hope that upon further
examination you will see the propriety of granting Mrs. Connelly's pension.
We are very respectfully
yr. obt. servt.
TL & A Tho. Smith


J L Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 76

6321
Jane Conley
See Letr.  to Hon. D. M.
Barringer. Dec. 3. 1844.
H.H. Sylvester April 3rd / 45
to same May 17 1845
to T. L. & A. T. Smith Sept. 17:45

Act 4 July 1836
________

No 6321
Jane Conley
NC
Let to Hon. D. M. Barriger }
Decem. 3. 1844 }
Let to H. H. Sylvester April 3. '45
1845
  "    "   [illegible] May 17. 45
  "    "  T L & A Thos. Smith Sept. 17. 45
1845
   "   "  same Jany. 19 : 46

Letter to M. Thompson Washington
Feb 1st 1851


Act 4 July 1836
Page 77

Washington June 10. 1852

Hon. Jas. E. Heath
Commr. of Pensions

Sir
I herewith inclose [enclose]
additional evidence in the
case of Jane Conley widow
of Capt. John Conley of No.
Car. & respectfully ask a
reexamination of the claim,
upon the grounds, & for the
reasons stated in my former
communication upon the subject.
I have the honor to be
M. Thompson
Atty for Conley
Page 78

291 Chestnut St
Asheville, N.C.
Dec. 6, 1938
Jan

[circular stamp] RECEIVED
JAN 8 1938
[illegible]
[illegible] 27


Veterans Administration
Washington
D.C.

I am in receipt
of a letter from
the War Department 
which refers
me to your bureau.
My father,
Horace W. Connelly
(H.W.) was a second
lieutenant in the
last year of the
War between the
Page 79

States (Civil War)
He was from
Burke County
enlisted at Morganton, N.C. 
and was
one of the
seventeen year
old Junior Reserves.
My grand father
William L. (W.L.)
Connelly was a
captain in the
3rd. North Carolina
Militia, Cherokee
War. He, also, was
from Burke County
but was mustered
into service at
Page 80

Franklin N. C.
May 12, 1838 and
was honorably
discharged July
5, 1853 at Asheville,
N.C.
I am most desirous
of learning something
of the
records of my
great grand father
and great great
grand father.
My great grand
father was also
W. L. Connelly (probably
spelled Conley then)
and held a North
Page 81

Carolina office in
18.17 I do not
know the given name 
of my great great
grand father.
Will you please
send me the names
of all Burke County
N.C. Veterans
named Connelly
Conly or Conley
recorded prior
to 1838 and their
records?
The N. C. Historical Commission
is unable to help
me due to lack
of help in research
work.
I am doing

[circular stamp]
RECEIVED
JAN 8 1938
[illegible]
[illegible]  27
Page 82

all I can to trace
my war ancestry through
Raleigh and
Washington.
I shall appreciate
greatly anything
you may do for
me.
Yours truly,
(Miss) Louise Connelly
291 Chestnut St.
Asheville
N C
Page 83

THE BANK OF ALAMO
CAPITAL PAID $25,000.00
ALAMO, TENN.

C. H. CONLEY, PRESIDENT
R. F. TANNER, VICE PRESIDENT
HERBERT A. PERRY, CASHIER
HARRY KNOX, ASSISTANT CASHIER

Sept. 28, 1937.

Veterans Administration,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Sirs:
I am very anxious to learn the names of the Father Grandfather and Great Grandfather of John Connelly who married Jane Ballew. In
our family Bible the names of their children were:
John Wesley (Our grandfather)
William
Jane -Married Cobb
Susan -Married Sherrod (this may not be spelled correctly-writing dim)
(Susan was living in 1876)
Joshua
Betsy
Mary- Married Bowman
George
Calib- Never married
Allen --- was living in 1876.
Joseph ---was living in 1876.

I have the following data. John Connelly enlisted in 1776 as Lt. in Col. McDowell's Regiment, N.C. Troops and was advanced to Capt. and Colonel. I can not verify that he ever served as Colonel. He served as First Lt. in Cpt. Wells or Welch's company. He was born in 1737 and dies in 1826.
I have been told that he was decendent [descendent] of one of FOUR brothers who
came to old Albermarle Point (now Charleston, S.C.) in 1680. The name was O'Congalaigh (meaning a light) and changed to Connelly and
then to Conley. Was he a decendent [descendent] of one of these four brothers?
If so, which one?
Thanking you for any information you may
be able to give me, I am,
Very sincerely, Mary Lee Conley [signature]
Mrs. C. H. Conley,

[circular stamp] numbered 1-12
RECEIVED
SEP 30 1937
MAIL SUB. DIV.
VETS. ADM.
READER [illegible] 24
Page 84

Los Angeles, California.
412 South Occidental Blvd.,
July 9th 1933.

[circular stamp] numbered 1-12
RECEIVED
JUL 15 1933
MAIL SUB-DIV.
READER 19
VETS. ADM.

A. D. Hiller, Veteran's Administration,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Sir:

Replying to your letter BA-J/MMHF:MLB, February 21, 1933, wherein you ask for certain information in order to identify the man
whose record I seek, beg to say that had I all that you ask for I would not need to write to your department.

I am desirous of knowing all I can about John William Connally who served in the Revolutionary War, Sergeant 3rd Georgia Battalion, commanded by Col. John McIntosh. He was paid for services from May 1, 1779
to February 1, 1780.

I am eager to know where born (I think North Carolina Dec. 5, 1765) Rowan County; also wish to know name of wife and thought probably
his pension papers would mention some of these things.

Thanking you, I am

Sincerely yours,
Marye Shannen Harrington [signature]
(Mrs. F. B. Harrington)

Mrs. Finch drew
John Connelly W. 20920
and said send it
to Mrs. Harrington because Rowan Co. is mentioned.
N. C. S.
8 / 1 / 33
Page 85

North Carolina
"Conleys" ov   Connellys

[circular seal] 
UNIOR DEGREE MEMBER
THE LEAGUE OF CURTIS
[illegible]

JOE STRICKLAND, JR.
615 ROBERT E. LEE APT.
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
Jan. 21, 1932
Burke Co. N.C.

[oval stamp] illegible
JAN 26 1932
PENSIONS
only

To
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington. D.C

Dear Sir:- In the record
of Pensions of John Conley
both in Duplin and in
Burke County N.C. and much
later in Haywood County N.C.,
will you kindly see
if there is in family data
ov dates? I think there was
both a father and a son by the name of
John both who were in
the Revolutionary war.
Then there was a son
the by the name of James [illegible]
who possibly was in
the war of 1812
I am interested in

Representing The Saturday Evening Post, The Ladies' Home Journal, The Country Gentleman
Page 86

JUNIOR DEGREE MEMBER
THE LEAGUE OF CURTIS
[illegible]

JOE STRICKLAND, JR.
6 ROBERT E. LEE APT.
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

both war records and
am very anxious for
family data and dates.
Our John Conley
probably enlisted with
Maryland troops and
settled in N.C. later, 
I don't know or that may
have been the father
(John Conley). Tradition
so indefinite.
There was a military
grant given to father
or son in Duplin
County N.C. but they
also settled in Burke
County N.C. as we well know
Will be so grateful
if you can help me in any way
yours Sincerely
Mrs. Joseph Strickland [signature]
Apt. 615 Robt. E Lee
Nashville Tenn.

Representing The Saturday Evening Post, The Ladies' Home Journal, The Country Gentleman
Page 87

Aus.
Apr. 12, '27

Athens, Illinois
March 10, 1927.

Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.

Dear Sir:-

I am enclosing a copy of
the military record of John Conley
which was sent some twenty
years ago to a member of our
family. I should like to have it
checked over and an official
statement of same with any
additional information which you
may haves.

I shall greatly appreciate
this favor.

Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Kennedy Kincaid.

[circular stamp]
U.S. PENSION OFFICE
MAR 14 1927
Page 88

Military History of John Conley (or Connelly)

Dates of enlistment or appointment
May or June 1776
April 1781
September 1781

Military Length of service
3 mo.
3 mo.
3 mo.

Rank
Captain of Co. of Cavalry
1st Lt.
Capt. 

Officers under whom service was rendered.
Captain                                        Colonel
under Gen. Rutherford
Capt. Welch :                         Col. McDowell
                                                "          "
State
N.C.

Battles engaged in, Siege of Ninety-six
Residence of soldier at enlistment, - not stated.
Date of application for pension - July 31, 1844
Residence at date of application, - McDowell Co., N.C.
Age             "     "     "            "    - 89 years.

Soldier married Jane Bellew [Ballew] in Rowan Co. N.C. Aug. 1773 and died July 16, 1826. She was pensioned as his widow and died Oct. 31, 1851 in McDowell Co. N.C.
(Signed)
J.L. Davenport [signature]
Acting Commissioner
March 24, 1904.
Page 89

Athens, Illinois
February 14, 1927.

Bureau of Pensions
Washington D.C

Dear Sirs:-
Will you please send me the
military history of John Conley who
served in the Revolutionary War. He
died July 16, 1826 and his widow
Jane Ballew Conley of McDowel [McDowell]
County North Carolina received a
pension for several years.
I shall greatly appreciate
any further information.
Sincerely,
Mrs. J. Kennedy Kincaid
Page 90

V.L.M.

Rev. War Section

January 25, 1916.

Mrs. L. W. English,
The Buckingham,
St. Louis, Missouri.

Madam:

Upon a reexamination of the papers in the 
Revolutionary War pension claim of John Connelly or Conley, W. F. No. 20,920, it is found that a son George is referred to in
1851 in a letter received in this Bureau at that date.

This letter is sent you in lieu of that forwarded
August 13, 1914, in which it was stated that the name George did not appear among the names of the children mentioned.

Very respectfully,
G M Saltzgaber [signature]
Commissioner.
Page 91

V. L. M.
Rev. War Section.

August 13, 1914.

Mrs. L. W. English,
C/O Martin Cottage.
Blowing Rock, N. C.

Madam:

In response to your letter dated the 10" instant, you are advised that the children stated in the Bureau letter of April 19, 1911, are the only children given in the claim of
John Conley. W. File No. 20,920. Rev. War.

For information in regard to membership in the Society of the D. A. R., you should address that Society at Memorial Continental Hall, Washington, D.C.

Very respectfully,
E. C. Tieman [signature]
Acting Commissioner.

In reviewing this claim Jan 24, 1916 we
found that the above letter was an
error, a son George is mentioned
in 1851 in letter of R. C. Pearson.
Write again to Mrs. English try
The Buckingham, St Louis Mo.
Page 92

c/o Martin Cottage
Blowing Rock NC

Department of the Interior
Bureau of Pensions
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen:-

The enclosed paper I copied from a paper
in possession of
Mrs. C. M. McCorkle, Newton
N.C. This paper names but 5 children of
John Conley & Jane Ballew Conely while in
reality they had 11 - as follows.
William, Joshua, John, George
Page 93

Allen, Caleb, Joseph Susan, Elizabeth,
Jane & Mary. George Conley, a son of
John Conley, was my Grand-Father.
Mrs. McCorkle's great grand father
was Allen Conley a brother of of (sic)
George. George & Allen Conley married
sisters who were Myra & Elizabeth Perkins
consequently
 my Mother & Mrs. McCorkle's
grand-mother were double cousins
Would Mrs. McCorkle's paper
admit me to the Daughters of the
Revolution or should I have a paper
containing the name of George Conley:
I shall be in Blowing Rock, N.C. of Martin Cottage until Aug. 17th-After that date my address will be Lenoir, N.C. Sept. 1st I shall be at home at The Buckingham St. Louis, Mo. I shall greatly appreciate an early reply.

Very Sincerely
(Mrs. L. W.) Laura Dula English
Aug. 10th, 1914.
Page 94

Rev Sec
H
SUNTER C. BRAWLEY
ROBERT M. GANTT
BRAWLEY & GANTT
ATTORNEYS AT LAW
OFFICE 206-207-208 GEER BUILDING
DURHAM, N. C.

January 12th, 1916.
The Bureau of Pensions,
Department of the Interior,
Washington, D. C.

Gentlemen,

Will you please give me the record
of John Conley of McDowell County, North Carolina, who was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. The record, I want for
the purpose of connecting some member of my family with "The Daughters of the American Revolution". This of course will give you some idea of what I want and how I want
the information, as you have many such applications for such information. If there is any expense connected with the same
I shall be glad to know it.

Thanking you in advance.

Very truly yours,
R.M. Ganttt
Page 95

Cona -
Cone
Connolly
Connelly
Connely

[circular stamp] RECORD
[illegible]
Page 96

C. M. McCORKLE.
CLERK SUPERIOR COURT, CATAWBA COUNTY.
NEWTON, N. C.

Apr. 13 - 1911.

Bureau Pensions
Washington, D. C.
Sir:
Please inform me if there
is a pension application on file
of a N.C. Revolutionary soldier
named John Connolly or Conley, or
of his wife Jane. If so, the
costs of a copy of same.
Respectfully,
C. M. McCorkle
Page 97

JNO. L. COBB,
Real Estate, Mineral Lands, Minerals

COLLECTOR OF RARE NORTH CAROLINA
ORYSTALS AND GEM STONES.

Producer of Rough and Crushed Stone
For All Purposes.

GRANITE QUARRIES
COLUMBIA, S.C.
OFFICES {LINCOLNTON, N. C.
              {COLUMBIA, S.C. [crossed out]
MARCH 11th, 1904

[square stamp] [illegible[ NAVY
MAR 15 1904
FILES.

Pension Office
Department Revolutionary War.
Washington D.C.

Kindly give me information
and records of John Connelly (or Conley)
who served in the Revolutionary War and
whose widow, Jane Ballew Connelly, drew
a pension during the 1840 [illegible] which was
obtained for her by Sylvester Bettis, Atty.
of Morganton, N.C. John Connally died
about 1820.
Please give me any also any
Records of William Ballew who also
served in the Revolutionary War. He was
from Virginia & migrated to North Carolina.
I don't know if his widow ever received
a pension.
The information desired is
to complete family history and the written
will [illegible] it a great favor if the information
given be as complete as the records can furnish.
Very truly,
Jno. L. Cobb.
Page 98

Mch. 25 1904 Hist. to
Mrs. L. Cobb Lincolnton, NC
1911 Apr. 19 Hist to Mr.
C. M. McCorkle V.L.M.
1914 Aug. 13 Mrs. L. W. English that
there are no other names of children
than those furnished.
1916 Jany. 24 Hist. to Mr. R. M. Gantt.
" Jany. 25 Mrs. L.W. English that
son George is mentioned in letter rec'd. 
in this Ba. dated in 1851
1925 Aug. 17 - Hist to Maj. C.M. McCorkle. His
letter in Ch. S7951 John Willfong - MMHF.
1926-Apr. 12. Hist. to Mrs. J. Kennedy Kincaid. MMHF

1932. Feb. 19. hist. to Mrs. Joseph
Strickland             M.C.S.
1933 Aug. 1 hist. to Mrs. F.
B. Harrington        MC.S.
1937. Oct. 8. hist. to Mrs. C. H.
Conley               MCS
1938. Mar. 10. hist to Miss
Louise Connelly         M.C.S.

Rev.
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 20.920
Jane Conley
Widow of
John Conley
Capt. Rev. War

Act: July 4th 1836
Index:-Vol. A, Page 4[? 5]

[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 99

March 10, 1938

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Miss Louise Connelly
291 Chestnut Street
Asheville, North Carolina

BA-J/MMHF:MLB

John Connelly
W, 20920

Dear Madam:

Reference is made to your letter in which you request information in regard to your great-grandfather, William L. Connelly or Conley, etc., and your great-great-grandfather Connelly whose given name you do not know. You state that your grandfather who was William L. Connelly, also, was a captain in the North Carolina militia, Cherokee Indian War, 1838, and that all those ancestors were of Burke County, North Carolina.

The record has been found of a Captain William L. Connelly (B. L. Wt. 61933-120-55) who served in the Cherokee Indian War, and
of a John Connelly (W. 20920) who served in the Revolutionary War, both of Burke County, North Carolina,

Those two records are furnished you herewith and it is hoped will aid you in your research. No record could be identified as that of the other William L. Connelly cited by you.

Very truly yours

A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator
Page 100


October 8, 1937

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

John Connelly, W. 20920
BA-J/MCS

Mrs. C. H. Conley
Alamo
Tennessee

Dear Madam:

Reference is made to your letter of September 28, 1937, requesting information relative to John Connelly, a soldier of the Revolutionary
War.

The data which follow were obtained from papers on file in the pension claim, W.20920, based upon the Revolutionary War service of
John Connelly or Conley,

The date and place of his birth and the names of his parents, grandparents or great grandparents, were not given.

While a resident of Burke County, North Carolina, he was commissioned captain and from May or June, 1776, served three or four
months in command of a company of North Carolina cavalry in a tour against the Cherokee Indians. In the spring of 1781 he volunteered
and served three months as first lieutenant in Captain Wells' or Welch's company in Colonel McDowell's North Carolina regiment and was
in the siege of Ninety-Six. In the fall of 1781 he served three months as captain of the fort in Burke County, North Carolina, under Colonel
McDowell. He also went out frequently with a company scouting along the frontiers, no details given.

He died July 16, 1826, in Burke County, North Carolina. His age, at any period, was not given.

This soldier married in 1772 or August, 1773, in Rowan County, North Carolina, Jane Ballew.

As the widow of John Connelly or Conley, Jane Connelly or Conley was allowed pension on her application executed July 31, 1844, while
living in McDowell County, North Carolina, aged eighty-nine years.
Page 101

Jane Connelly or Conley died October 30, 1851, in McDowell County, North Carolina.

Reference was made to the following children of John and Jane Connelly or Conley: William who was born June 22, 1774, Mary who was
born October 9, 1776, George, Allen, Joseph who in 1845 was aged forty-four years and was living in McDowell County, and Susannah
Sherril. The last three survived their mother.

In 1844 one John Gibbs, resident of Burke County, North Carolina, stated that he married a sister of Captain John Conley in 1776. In 1844 one Rebecca Gibbs who was aged eighty-eight years and a resident of Burke County, North Carolina, stated that she married in 1776 and that she was present at the marriage of Captain John Conley and Jane Ballew. She did not say she was the sister of John Conley,

In 1844 one Stephen Ballew was a resident of Burke County, North, Carolina, but it was not stated that he was related to the widow, Jane.

In 1851 Mrs. Rust and Mrs. Rutherford were referred to as sisters of the widow, Jane Connelly or Conley,

In 1852 David Ballew testified in Yancey County, North Carolina, but it was not shown that he was related to the widow, Jane Connelly or Conley.

Very truly yours

A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator
Page 102

August 1, 1933

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

John Connelly, W.20920
BA-J/MCS

Mrs. F. B. Harrington
112 South Occidental Blvd.
Los Angeles
California

Dear Madam:

Reference is made to your request for information relative to John William Connally, a soldier of the Revolution.

The Revolutionary War records of this office fail to afford information in regard to any John William Connally or a John Connally (searched under all spellings of the name) who served with Georgia troops.

The data furnished herein were obtained from papers on file in the pension claim, W. 20920, based upon the military service of John Connelly or Conley.

While a resident of Burke County, North Carolina, he was commissioned captain and from May or June, 1776, served three or four months in command of a company of North Carolina cavalry in a tour against the Cherokee Indians. In the spring of 1781 he volunteered and served three months as first lieutenant in
Captain Wells' or Welch's company in Colonel McDowell's North Carolina regiment and was in the siege of Ninety-Six. In the fall of 1781 he served three months as captain of the fort in
Burke County, North Carolina, under Colonel McDowell. He also went out frequently with a company scouting along the frontiers, no details given.

He died July 16, 1826, in Burke County, North Carolina. His age is not given.

The soldier married in 1772 or August 1773 in Rowan County, North Carolina, Jane Ballew.
Page 103

She was allowed pension on her application executed July 31, 1844, while living in McDowell County, North Carolina, aged
eighty-nine years.

She died October 30, 1851, in McDowell County, North Carolina.

Their children were: William, born June 22, 1774, Mary, born October 9, 1776; George; Allen; Joseph, aged forty-four years in 1845; and Susannah Sherril. The last three survived
their mother. [arrow pointing to 1845;] res McDowell NC.

In 1844 one John Gibbs, resident of Burke County, North Carolina, stated that he married a sister of Captain John Conley in 1776. In 1844 one Rebecca Gibbs, aged 88 yrs resident of Burke County, North Carolina, stated that she married in 1776 and that she was present at the marriage of Captain John Conley and Jane Ballew. She did not say she was the sister of John Conley.

In 1844 one Stephen Ballew was a resident of Burke County, North Carolina, but it was not stated that he was related to the widow, Jane.

In 1851 Mrs. Rust and Mrs. Rutherford were referred to as sisters of the widow, Jane Connelly or Conley.

Very truly yours

A. D. Hiller
Assistant to Administer

This hist, was
sent because
Rowan Co. N.C.
was mentioned in it.
also, because the inquiries
knew so little about
what she wanted.
MMHJ

set because
Cowan to N.C
A. D. HILLER
was mentioned in it
Assistant to Administrator
also, because the inquirer
knew so little about
what she wanted-
M
8
Page 104

copy of abstract by M.M.H.F.

February 19, 1932

BA-J/MCS

Mrs. Joseph Strickland
615 Robert E. Lee Apt.
Nashville
Tennessee

Dear Madam:

Reference is made to your letters of January 20 and 21, 1932, requesting information in regard to soldiers of the Revolution and War of 1812.
[arrow drawn to 'January 20'] This letter returned Feb. 19.

The data contained herein are obtained from papers on file in pension claim, W. 20920, based upon the Revolutionary War service of John Connelly or Conley, the only soldier of that name who lived in Burke County, North Carolina, that is found in the Revolutionary War records of this office.

While a resident of Burke County, North Carolina, he was commissioned captain and from May or June, 1776, served three or
four months in command of a company of North Carolina cavalry in a tour against the Cherokee Indians. In the spring of 1781 he
volunteered and served three months as first lieutenant in Captain Wells' or Welch's Company in Colonel McDowell's North Carolina Regiment and was in the siege of Ninety-Six. Again in the fall of 1781 he served three months as captain of the fort in Burke County, North Carolina, under Colonel McDowell. He also went out frequently
with a company scouting along the frontiers, no details given.

He died July 16, 1826, in Burke County, North Carolina. His age is not given.

The soldier married in 1772 or August 1773 in Rowan County, North Carolina, Jane Ballew,

She was allowed pension on her application executed July 31, 1844, while living in McDowell County, North Carolina, aged
eighty-nine years.

She died in McDowell County, North Carolina, October 30, 1851.
Page 105

Their children were: William born June 22, 1774, Mary born October 9, 1776, George, Allen, Joseph aged forty-four years in 1845, and Susannah Sherril. The last three survived
their mother.

The Revolutionary War records of this office fail to afford any information in regard to Jesse Hillsman and Alexander Dobbins.

In order to make a proper search of the records for particular soldiers, Joseph Hillsman of the Revolution and James Conley or Connelly of the War of 1812, it is essential that you furnish
as much as possible of the following data pertaining to each;
the war in which soldier served, approximate dates of soldier's birth and death, places of residence at enlistment and after service
and first names of widows.

Very truly yours,

A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator
Page 106

MMHF

. & 1812 Wars section

April 12, 1927

Mrs. J. K. Kincaid
Athens, Ill.

Madam:
I have to advise you [illegible words] in the Revo-


[rest of page not visible]
Page 107

v. & 1812 Wars Section
MMHF

August 17, 1925

Major C. M. McCorkle
Washington, D. C.

Sir:

I have to advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim W. 20820 it appears that John Connelly or Conley while a resident of Burke County, North Carolina was commissioned Captain and from May or June 1776 served three or four months in
command of a company of North Carolina Cavalry in a tour against the Cherokee Indians.

In the spring of 1781 he volunteered and served three months as First Lieutenant in Captain Wells or Welch's Company, Colonel McDowell's North Carolina Regiment
and was at the Siege of Ninety Six.

Again in the fall of 1781 he served three months as Captain of the fort in Burkes County, North Carolina under Colonel McDowell.

He also went out frequently with a company scouting along the frontiers, no details given. He died
Page 108

July 16, 1826 in Burkes County, North Carolina. His age is not stated.

Soldier married in 1772 or August 1773 in Rowan County, North Carolina, Jane Ballew. She was allowed pension on her application executed July 31, 1844 while living in McDowell County, North Carolina aged eighty-nine years. She died in said county October 30, 1851.

Children: William born June 22, 1774, Mary born
October 9, 1776, George, Allen, Joseph aged forty-four years in 1845, and Susannah Sherril. The last three survived their mother.

Respectfully,

WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner.

Soldier's sister mar-
John Gibbs-
widow had sisters
Mrs. Rust & Mrs. Rutherford-
Page 109

[page folded] ontained in his (or his widow's) application for pen-
in this Bureau.
John Connelly or Conley W F 20920

OR
T.
May or June 1776
*Spring 1781
Fall of 1781

LENGTH OF SERVICE.
3 or 4 mos.
3 mos.
3 mos

RANK.
Capt.
1st Lieut.
Capt.

OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED.
CAPTAIN.
of co. of cav
Wells or Welch
of the fort in Burke Co. N.C.

COLONEL.
McDowell

STATE.
N.C.

Battles engaged in*, Ninety Six.
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Burke Co. N.C.
Date of application for pension, July 31,1844 
Her cl. al.
Residence at date of application, McDowell Co. N.C.
Age at date of application, She was 89 yrs. old
Remarks: Soldier married in Rowan Co. N.C. in 1772 or Aug. 1773 Jane
Ballew He died July 16, 1826. She died in McDowell Co. N.C. Oct. 30, 1851. Children: William b. June 22, 1774. Mary b. Oct. 7 [crossed out] 9, 1776. George, Allen, Joseph 44 yrs. old in 1845 and Susannah Sherrill, the last three survived their mother
Very respectfully,

Commissioner.

31793b5m10-07
Page 110

5011
North Carolina
Jane Conley
widow of John
who died on the [on the crossed out] 1826.
of ____ in the State of N.C.
who was a Captain in the ____ commanded
by Captain ___ of the ___ commanded
by ___ in the ____
line for 6 mos.

Inscribed on the Roll of N. C.
at the rate of 120 Dollars --- Cents
per annum, to commence on the 4" day of
March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 7 day of
April 1851 and sent to
M. Thomson
Present
Arrears to the 4th of
Semi-annual allowance ending

{Revolutionary Claim,}
{Act July 4, 1836,}
{Section the }
Recorded by H E Robinson Clerk,
Book D     Vol. 2            Page 380

M Thompson Aug. 23 1852
Same Oct. 5 1852
Page 111

State of North Carolina }
McDowell County } On this 28th day of December 1845, personally appeared before me Joseph Conley one of the Acting Magistrates in & for said County, Jane Conley, widow of John Conley deceased, an applicant for a pension, a resident of the County & State aforesaid, who being duly sworn
according to law, deposeth, and saith, That her husband the aforesaid John Conley entered the Army of the Revolution as a Capt. of Militia under General Rutherford in the year 1776, and as such he served a tour of duty under the
said General against the Cherokee Indians. That her said husband with his Company of soldiers joined Genl. Rutherfords Army at Catheys or Davidsons Fort, on the Catawba River about the middle of May or the first of June, 1776, while on their way to the Cherokee Nation, and that after joining said Army he
with his company went on to the Cherokee Nation and was [illegible] untill [until] about the middle of September-
His next regular tour of service was in the Spring of 1781. He was called out with a Company togeather [together] with
others under Col. McDowell to go to the releaf [relief] of South Carolina, which was at that time invaded by the Enemy. That on this
occasion her husband who was Capt. joined Companies with Capt. Welch, and served the above Tour as Lieut. under Capt. Welch. That the Army left Burke County North Carolina in the month of April & went on to South Carolina and was at the
Seage [Siege] of Ninety Six, and from thence they returned home to North Carolina
& was discharged at the Expiration of three months-
Page 112

His third, and last regular Term of service was in the fall of 1781. he was Capt of the Fort in Burke County N.Ca and served there a tour of three months, which was by the Command of Col McDowell. That he was stationed at the Fort sometime in September and remained there "till about Christmas
And this deponent further states that her said husband rendered other services during the Revolution, that he was frequently out with a Company of a scouting along the lines of the frontiers. But that the foregoing contains all the Regular Tours of duty that her husband performed, which she has given in according to her best recollection. That from old age and loss of memory she cannot give the commencement and termination of each tour of duty. But that she feels justifiable in stating that he served in all that is set forth above a period of not less than nine months and a half, for which service she asks for a pension.
She further states that her said husband was regularly commissioned as a Captain at or before the breaking out of the War or commencement of hostilities in North Carolina and that he held said Commission and served under it for during the Revolution and that soon after the War said Commission was destroyed by fire at the burning of their house in the year 1785.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year aforesaid
Before me
Jo. Conly JP
Jane Conley
her mark
I do hereby certify that I am [illeg] the affiant is a woman of good mind and character and her statements are entitled to full credence.
Jo. Conly JP
Page 113

State of North Carolina
MDowell County
I Saml J. Neal Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid certify that Joseph Conly is a Magistrate as above and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of office and subscribed my name this 30 day of December AD 1845
S. J.. Neal Clerk
Page 114

State of North Carolina
Yancey County
On this 9th day of August 1844, personally appeared before me Joseph Pitman one of the acting Magistrates in and for said County of Yancey Jonathan MacPeeters a resident of the County and State aforesaid an United States Pensioner who being first duly qualified according to law maketh oath that he was well acquainted with Captain John Conley of Burke County NoCarolina in the days of the Revolution whose widow Jane is now a resident of McDowell County N.Carolina and is an applicant for a Pension, due on the account of the Revolutionary services of her husband the aforesaid Captain John Conley deceased; that this deponent did serve a term of duty with said Capt John Conley under the Command of Gerneral Rutherford in the year 1776 at the time Genl Rutherford went out against the Cherokee Indians and at which time the aforesaid Capt John Conley commanded a Company of Cavalry and served the above tour of duty to deponents own personal knowledge,
This deponent further states on his said oath, that he was also out another tour of duty with said Capt John Conley which was the siege of ninety a Post in South Carolina at which time the aforesaid Captain John Conley served as a Lieutenant under Captain Wills, Furthermore deponent saith not.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written before me
Joseph Pitman JP
Jonathan McPeeters
his Mark
Page 115

State of North Carolina }
Yancey County } I, Joseph Pitman a Magistrate in the County aforesaid, do hereby certify that Jonathan McPeters, who has this day sworn to and subscribed the foregoing affidavit before me is a person to whose statements is due full faith & credence
Given under my hand this 9th day August 1844.
Joseph Pitman
JP

State of North Carolina }
Yancy County } I J W Garland Clerk of the Court
of pleas & Quarter Sessions for said County do
hereby certify that Joseph Pitman whose name
appears to the above affidavit & certificate is & was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace for said county of Yancey duly appointed commissioned & qualified and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine
In Testimony whereof I hereunto
affix my seal of office & subscribed
my name - Burnsville August
the 9th 1844
J W Garland Clerk of
Yancey County Court
Page 116

State of North Carolina }
MacDowell [McDowell] County ] On this 30th day of July 1844 personally appeared before me, Merrot Burgin, one of the acting Magistrates in and for said County of McDowell William Gillispie a resident of the County & State aforesaid aged 74 years, and made oath in due form of Law to the following statements, (towit) That he was in the
days of the Revolution well acquainted with Captain John Conley late deceased of Burke County N. Carolina whoes [whose] widow Jane is now applying for a Pension due to her on the account of the Revolutionary services of her said husband the aforesaid Capt. John Conley, That this deponent was a living in the time of the Revolution in and near Waffords Fort in said County of Burke which was kept up during the War for the purpose of defending
the frontiers against the Indians, and it was in
the years 1780 and 81, that deponent often saw the aforesaid Capt. John Conley who was frequently at said Fort engaged in the service of the United States as a Captain of the Militia.
This deponent further states on his said oath that, he was but about ten years of age at the time of his being acquainted with the aforesaid Capt. John Conleys Revolutionary services, but living as he did, at or near, the aforesaid
Fort, afforded him the opportunity to know something of the services of those that were engaged on the frontiers, and that he well recollects of frequently seeing said Captain John
Page 117

Conley at the aforesaid Fort, whom it was always said was a Captain, a good Whig, and was engaged in the defence of the rights of his Country against the Common Enemy,
furthermore this deponent saith not
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and date
first above written before me
Test Merrit Burgin
W. Gillespie

State of North Carolina }
McDowell County }              SS
I do hereby certify that William
Gillispie who has this day sworn to and subscribed the foregoing affidavit before me, is a person to whose statements
is due full faith and credit
Given under my hand this 30th day of July 1844
Merritt Burgin JP

State of North Carolina }
MacDowell [McDowell] County }     
I S. J. Neal Clerk of the Court of
Pleas and quarter Sessions for the said County, do certify that Merrett Burgin Esqr. whose name appears to the foregoing affidavit & certificate is an acting Magistrate in & for said
County of MacDowell [McDowell] duly commissioned and qualified and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are
genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my hand and affixed my seal of office at
office in Pleasant Guardens [Gardens] this 31st July 1844
Saml. J. Neal Clk
Page 118

State of North Carolina }
Burke County }
On this 6th day of August 1844,
personally appeared before me J. D. Ferree of the acting Magistrates in for the aforesaid County of Burke, John Gibbs, a resident of the said County, an old Revolutionary Soldier,
and made oath in due form of Law, to the following statements that he has from before the days of the Revolution been well acquainted with Captain John Conley late deceased of Burke County N. Carolina, also with his wife Jane, who is now applying for a pension, on the account of the Revolutionary services of her husband the aforesaid Capt. John Conley deceased, that this deponent did serve a three months Tour of duty in the War of the Revolution under Captain John Conley the aforesaid at the head of the Catawba River in Burke Conty in the fall of the year 1781. This deponent further stated on his oath that he live in the immediate neighborhood of said Captain John Conley during the War of the Revolution, and was knowing to the said Captain John Conley being gone from home, and it was said to the Siege of 96, as Lieutenant under Capt. Wells, also of his returning home to Burke with his men, all of whom said that they had been to the Siege of 96, & that Capt. Conley acted as Lieutenant under Captain Wells as aforesaid which was, to deponents knowledge. never disputed, and furthermore deponent well recollects, that
among the number of his acquaintances that was out the said tour under Capt. Conley was one Hyatt who was wounded in the corner of his eye, and it was said to have been done at the Siege of ninety six by a ball from the enemy-
Page 119

This deponent further states in his said oath, that said Captain John Conley commanded a Company of Cavalry under General Rutherford, that went with said General, at the time he went against the Cherokee Indians in the year
1776, that he deponent was personally known to the fact of his the said Captain John Conley starting with his company of men to go to the nation, of his being gon [gone] three or four months from home and of his returning home to his wife & family and said that he had been out to the Indian nation, and so said others that were along at the same time
And this deponent further states on his said
oath that he knows of his own personal knowledge that the parties aforesaid [illegible], Captain John Conley and wife Jane, the present applicant for a Pension, were a living together as husband and wife, both before, and during the Revolutions that he deponent was married to a sister of the aforesaid Captain John Conley in the year 1776, at which time the said parties had a family of one child and had been married for some two or three years. Furthermore this deponent saith not
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written before me
J D Ferree JP }  John his X mark Gibbs

North Carolina }
Burke County } I do hereby certify that John Gibbs, the affiant above, is a credible person & to be believed on oath. Given under my
hand this 6th day of August 1844.
J.D. Ferree JP [encircled in cloud shape]
Page 120

State of North Carolina }
Burke County }
On this 6th day of August 1844, personally
appeared before me J. D. Ferree of the acting Magistrates in and for the County aforesaid, Rebecca Gibbs a resident of the County of Burke age 88. years, and made oath in due form of Law. to the following statement, towit, that she was in the days of the Revolution living in the neighborhood of Capt. John Conley deceased of Burke County North [crossed out] whose widow Jane is now applying for a pension due on the account
of the Revolutionary services of her husband the aforesaid Capt. John Conley that this deponent was present and witnessed
the solemnization of the rites of matrimony between the said parties, (towit) Capt. John Conley & Jane Ballew, who were married
by Esqr. McBride in the year seventeen hundred & seventy two
1772, or 73, that she well recollects that said marriage took place some three or four years before the commencement of the Revolution, that she was herself married in the year 1776 at which time the parties aforesaid had one child which she distinctly recollects
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written before me
J.D. Ferree JP } Rebecca her X mark Gibbs

North Carolina }
Burke County } I, J.D. Ferree, a magistrate in & for the said County do certify that Rebecca Gibbs who has this day sworn to and subscribed the foregoing affidavit before me, is a credible person and to be believed on oath. Given under my hand this
6th day of August 1844.
J. D. Ferree JP [encircled in cloud shape]
Page 121

State of North Carolina }
Burke County }
I J.J. Erwin Clerk of the Court
of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid
do hereby certify that J. D. Ferree before whom the foregoing affidavits were sworn to and subscribed is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto
subscribed my name and affixed my
seal of office at office in Morganton
this 12th day of August 1844
J. J. Erwin Clerk of
Burke County
Page 122

State of North Carolina }
Burke County } On this 6th day of August 1844 personally appeared before me J. D. Ferree of the acting Magistrates in for the said County of Burke, Stephen Ballew, a resident of the
County and State aforesaid, an United States Pensioner and made oath in due form of law, to the following statements vizs That the
deponent was well acquainted with John Conley late deceased of Burke County North Carolina, also with his wife Jane, who is now applying for a Pension on the account of the Revolutionary services of her husband the aforesaid John Conley; that this deponent lived in the days of the Revolution a near neighbor
to the parties aforesaid, towit, John Conley & wife, and knows of his own personal knowledge that said John Conley was engaged in the service of the United States as Captain of Militia and was mostly employed as a Captain of scouting parties that were frequently called into service to defend the Frontiers against the Indians, This deponent further states on his said oath that he knows of his own personal knowledge that said Captain John Conley did serve two regular tours of duty, in addition to
the service above mentioned. First that he Conley was out to the Siege of Ninety six a Post in South Carolina in the year 1781, and served as Lieutenant under Captain Wells with
whom he, Captain John Conley, had joined Companies, Secondly the said Capt. Conley after returning from the Siege of 96, in the same year, served a Tour of duty at the head of the Catawber [Catawba] River in Burke County as Captain of a company of men that were stationed in that part of the County as a defence [defense] against
Page 123

the Indians, And this deponent further stated in his oath that he has always understood and fully believes that said Capt. John Conley did serve another tour of duty in the year
1776 as Capt. of a Company of Cavalry under General Rutherford at the time Genl. Rutherford went against the Cherokee Indians
This deponent also states on his oath, that said
Captain John Conley was to his own personal knowledge a living with his wife Jane, the aforesaid applicant for a pension as husband & wife. before the War broke out and were considered as Lawfully man & wife by all that knew them, and that they did continue to live together as such up to the death of said Captain Conley, and that he never herd [heard] their marriage disputed or question by any one
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written before me
J. D. Ferree J. P.
Stephen his X mark Ballew

North Carolina }
Burke County } I J.D. Ferree Magistrate in & for said County of Burke do hereby certify that Stephen Ballew who has this day sworn to and subscribed the above affidavit before
me is a credible person and his statements are entitled to full faith & credit
Given under my hand this 6th day of Aug. 
[? 1st] 1844
J. D. Ferree J. P. [encircled in cloud shape]
Page 124

State of North Carolina }
Burke County }
I, J. J. Erwin clerk of the Court
of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County
aforesaid do hereby certify that J. D. Ferree whose name appears to the foregoing affidavit is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid and that his foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto
subscribed my name and affixed my
seal of office at office in Morganton
this 12th day of August 1844
J. J. Erwin Clerk
of Burke County
Page 125

6321
Jane Conley [Connelly]
widow of John
N C
Act 4 July 1836
M. 74.
Married 1774
Husband died 1826
Adm. 6 months Capt.
$120 per annum,
Courg' 4 March 1831

M. Thompson
Present
Page 126

North Carolina
Rowan County ⎬
I John Giles clerk of the court of pleas & Quarter
sessions for said County, do hereby certify that I have examined the Records of my office, and find no record, nor bond for the marriage of John Conley to Jane Ballew who it is alledged [alleged] were married in August 1773.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set
my hand and affixed the seal of said
court at Office the 21st day of
August 1844.
John Giles CC