Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 7825, William Hughes, Va.
Page 1

(8--1776)
SERVICE
VA
Hughes, William
Sarah
Number 
W.7825

CONTENTS
Page 2

R.8782
Virginia 
Sarah Hughes Decd.
Widow of William Hughes VA who was a Sergeant in the Revolution for 6 months.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 30 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843 and end 17th June 1845, when she died. 
Certificate of Pension issued the 13th day of March 1850 and sent to the Lumpkin Ranch.
[Acts of March 3, 1843, & June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book A 
Vol. 2 Page 140
Payable to surviving children Charity Mason, Rebecca Ward, Sarah Thompson, Polly Hughes, and John M. Hughes.
Page 3

State of Virginia, Cumberland County to wit
Intermarried on the 25th day of December 1782 (twenty fifth day of December seventeen hundred and eighty two) Billy Hughes and Sarah Murray of Littleton Parrish by the Rev. Christopher McRose. 
I, Miller Woodson, Clerk of the County Court of Cumberland in the State of Virginia, do certify that the above is a true copy of the certificate of marriage of Billy Hughes and Sarrah Murray, as taken from the records of my office.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my Seal of Office this 9th day of December 1839. 
Miller Woodson, Clerk
Page 4

Sarah Hughes, VA
Thomas Lumpkin, Esq.
Washington City
D.C.

[Stamp CHARLOTTE, C.H. MAR 5]
Page 5

In Charlotte County Courthouse, March 5th 1850
In motion satisfactory evidence was presented in Court to prove that Sarah Hughes (widow of William Hughes deceased) who was an applicant for a pension under the act of July 7th 1838 was a resident of the County of Charlotte and State of Virginia and died in the same County and State on the 17th of June 1845 that she left the following only surviving children towit Charity Mason, Rebecca Ward, Sarah Thompson, Polly Hughes, and John M. Hughes all of whom are of legal age. 

State of Virginia
Charlotte County Court
I, Winslow Robinson, Clerk of the County Court of the said County of Charlotte in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of an order from the records of my office. 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of my Office this 5th day of March 1850.
Winslow Robinson, CC
Page 6

Charlotte Ct. House
March 5th 1850
Dear sir, 
I enclose your the order of Court in relation to Mrs. Sarah Hughes which I hope will prove satisfactory and in great haste. &c.
Yours [Illegible] &c
Wm. J. B. Bedford
Page 7

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th July 1838, entitled “An Act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows–”

State of Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
On this 14th day of November 1839, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, Sarah Hughes, a resident of said County and State, aged 79 years, who being 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 7th July 1838, entitled “An Act granting half pay and pensions to certain Widows–”
That she is the widow of William Hughes (sometimes called “Billy Hughes”) deceased late of the said County and States, who was a Private in the Virginia Continental Line and afterwards a Sergeant in the Virginia Militia service, in the War of the Revolution. She declares, that she does not pretend to know anything as coming within her personal knowledge respecting the service of her late husband having married him subsequent to the last period of his service. She has a most distinct recollection of his repeatedly stating and heard the same from others who served with him. That in the early part of 1777, he enlisted in the Virginia Continental Line, for the term of three years under Captain Garland in Lunenburg and served that term faithfully. She also recollects very distinctly of his saying in his lifetime and of others who served with him, of his afterwards serving three tours of duty in the Militia, each of three months duration, in the Revolutionary War. To wit: one tour of three months to the South in 1780, and was engaged in the Battle near Camden; one tour of three months in North Carolina in 1781, and was at the
Page 8

Battle of Guilford Courthouse; and the last tour of three months in 1781, and was at the siege of Yorktown. That in these several tours of duty in the Militia, he always acted in the capacity of Sergeant, all of which she honestly believes to be true. That from bodily infirmity, old age, and the consequent loss of memory, she cannot at this time call to recollection the names of the several officers under whom he served in the Militia, and the particulars of his service as related by him on various occasions; she therefore depends in a great measure on the Records of the Army, and the statement of surviving soldiers for more particular information, whose certificates accompany this declaration. That she honestly believes her said husband in the whole service as Private and Sergeant as aforesaid longer than two years; for which length of time she claims a pension. In support of her claim, she refers to the Army Records and accompanying certificates.
She further declares, that at the time of marriage, she resided in Cumberland County, Virginia, and was named Sarah Murray; and that she was married to the said William Hughes, otherwise called “Billy Hughes” by Parson McRae, on the 25th day of December, 1782. That her husband, the said William Hughes, died on the [Blank] day of August 1810. That she was not married to him, prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first day of January seventeen hundred and ninety four. To wit, at the time above stated as will appear from evidence filed.
Sarah  her X mark   Hughes 
Sworn to and subscribed before me a Justice of the Peace in the County aforesaid this 14th day of November 1839.
T. F. Spencer, JP
Page 9

State of Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
I do hereby certify, that I am intimately acquainted with the family and connections of William Hughes, decd, late of the County of Charlotte, who was a soldier of the Revolution. I know nothing in regard to his services but recollect that he enlisted under Capt. Garland for three years, in the Virginia Continental Line. I recollect also, that he had a near relation by the name of “Jane Hughes,” of whom he was particularly fond. He told me that he had given away the balance of his pay as a soldier in the Army, but to whom he did not state. But have no doubt that it was  to said Jane Hughes. She was his Aunt and is dead. 
John  his X mark   Hughes 

Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
This day, John Hughes came before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid and made oath that the foregoing certificate subscribed by him, contained the truth. I further certify that he is a credible person and his statement entitled to full confidence. 
Given under my hand this 6th day of April 1840.
John Harvey, JP
Page 10

State of Virginia, Charlotte County Court 
I, Winslow Robinson, Clerk of the County Court of Charlotte in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that John Harvey is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the said County, duly commissioned and qualified, and that the signature annexed purporting to be his is genuine.
Given under my hand and the Seal of my Office this 13th day of April 1840.
Winslow Robinson, Clerk
Page 11

February 33, 1937.
BA-J/ady
William Hughes
W.7825

Mrs. Walter A. Mason
Coalwood
West Virginia

Dear Madam:
The data contained herein were obtained from the papers on file in the Revolutionary War claim for pension, W.7825, based upon the military service of William Hughes in that war.
The date and place of birth and the names of the parents of William Hughes, called Billy Hughes, are not shown.
While a resident of Lunenburg County, Virginia, Willian Hughes enlisted the last of 1776 or the first of 1777, served as private in Captains Garland’s and Nathan Reid’s Companies, Colonel Charles Lewis Fourteenth Virginia Regiment, length of service three years. He enlisted in 1780, served three months as sergeant in Captain Walker’s Virginia Company and was in the battle of Camden. He enlisted early in 1781, served three months as Sergeant in Captain Walker’s Virginia Company and was in the Battle of Guilford. He enlisted in 1781, served three months as sergeant in the Virginia troops, name of officer not given, and was at the siege of Yorktown.
He died in August 1810, in Charlotte County, Virginia, his age not given.
Soldier married December 23, 1783, in Littleton Parish, Cumberland County, Virginia, Sarah Murray. They were both then residents of said Cumberland County.
Soldier’s widow, Sarah Hughes, applied for pension November 14, 1839, at which time she was aged seventy-nine years and a resident of Charlotte County, Virginia. The claim was allowed.
She died June 17, 1845, in Charlotte County, Virginia. She was survived by the following children: Charity Mason,
Page 12

Rebecca Ward, Sarah Thompson, Polly Hughes and John M. Hughes.
Jane Hughes, an aunt of the soldier, William Hughes, was dead in 1840.
One John Hughes made affidavit in Charlotte County, Virginia, in 1840, his age or relationship not stated.
In 1854 one Benjamin Hughes was living in Mooresboro, North Carolina, his age or relationship not shown. There are no further family data.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
Page 13

Revolutionary Widow, &c.
File No. 7825
Sarah Hughes
Widow
William Hughes
Sergeant. Revolutionary War.
Act: [Illegible]
Index:- Vol. A, Page 355
[Arrangement of 1870]
1937 February 23 Hist. to Mrs. Walter G. Mason Lee 
Her letter in Claim W.11769
Jacob Weiss A.D.Y.
Page 14

Sarah Hughes
Brief
Page 15

Claim of Sarah Hughs, widow of Wm Hughs, for Pension under the Act of July 7th 1838.

1st  The claimant, in her Declaration, states that she is a resident of Charlotte Co. Va. aged 79 years (on the 14th Nov. 1839); That she is the widow of William Hughs, sometimes called "Billy Hughs," deceased, who died in August 1810.  That she knows nothing of her own personal knowledge respecting his services, having married him subsequent to the last period of his service, to wit, on the 28th of Decr. 1782; Has a most distinct recollection of his repeatedly stating, and heard the same from others who served with him, that in the early part of 1777 he enlisted in the Virginia Continental line, for the term of three years, under Captain Garland, in Lunenburg, and served that time faithfully--Recollects distinctly of his saying in his lifetime, and of others who served with him saying, that he afterwards  ser-
Page 16

2.
-ved three tours of duty in the Militia, each of three months duration, in the Rev. War, to wit: one term of three months, to the South in 1780, and was engaged in the battle near Camden; one tour of three months in N. Carolina in 1781, and was at the Battle of Guilford; the last tour of three months in 1781, and was at the Seige of Yorktown. That in these several tours in the Militia, he always acted as Sergeant. From bodily infirmity, old age, and loss of memory, cannot call to recollection the names of the officers under whom he served in the Militia, or the particulars of his service as related by him on various occasions. She refers to the Army Records and accompanying evidence.
This declaration is sworn before J. F. Spencer, Justice of the Peace, who certifies that she is unable to attend court, and her statement are entitled to confidence.
Page 17

Evidence
1st Deposition of Stephen D. Turner
Who swears that Mr. Hughs died in August 1810 leaving the said Sarah Hughes his widow, who is still living and unmarried.
2nd Certificate from the Records of Cumberland County Courthouse, Virginia. Showing the marriage of Billy Hughes and Sarah Murray, by the Rev. Christopher McRae, on the 25th day of December 1782.
3rd Deposition of John Hughs. Who swears that he is intimately acquainted with the family and connexions of William Hughs decd. Knows nothing in regard to his service but recollects that he enlisted under Capt. Garland for three years, in the Virginia Continental Line. Recollects that he had a near relation by the name of Jane Hughs, of whom he was particularly fond.  Hughs told affiant
Page 18

 that he had given away the allowance of his pay as a soldier in the Army, but to whom, he did not state- but has no doubt it was to Jane Hughes--She was his Aunt, & is dead.
Sworn to before John Harvey, Justice of the Peace, 6th April 1840 who certifies to the credibility of the witness.

4th Certificate from the Auditor of Virginia dated 13th No. 1839. That it appears from a list in his office of such officers and soldiers of the Va Continental Line during the Revolutionary War, as settled their accounts and received certificates for the balance of their Full Pay, according to an Act of Assembly of Nov. Session 1781, that a certificate issued on the 28th day of August 1786, in the name of William Hughes, as a soldier of infantry, for £11.14.8 which certificate appears to have been delivered to Jane Hughes, and was given for services
Page 19

5
prior to 1st Jan 7, 1782

5th Dep. of Robert Mitchell
   was intimately acquainted with William Hughes, in the War of the Revolution. Recollects that in the latter part of 1776 he and myself enlisted under Capt. Garland, for the term of three years, in the Virginia Continental Line, and was attached to the 14th Virginia Regiment commanded by Col. Charles Lewis. He served the said term faithfully and was honorably discharged. Witness is in the 85th year of his age (20th July 1840)
Sworn to before S. Ingram, J. P, who certifies that said Robert Mitchell is a pensioner, and a credible person, and his statement entitled to the utmost confidence. That his mind has not been impaired or his memory lost in consequence of sickness or old age. Believes his statements &c..
Page 20

6th Dep. of Seth Farley of Charlotte Co, Va
  Was well acquainted with Mr. Hughes, deceased, in the War of the Revolution and has a distinct recollection that in 1776 he enlisted, as well as my memory now serves me, under Capt. Garland, in what was called the Virginia Minute Service, or Continental Line, for the term of three years, which term he faithfully served. That he has been dead a great many years, &c.  After joining the Army might have been transferred to serve another Company – knows he served three years.
Sworn to before John Brookers, J. P. who certifies that witness is credible.
7th Ambrose Haley
   Was intimately acquainted with Wm. Hughes, late of Lunenburg County, in the War of the Revolution, and recollected distinctly that he and myself were drafted in the Militia from Lunenburg County in 1780, under Capt. Walker and marched to the South
Page 21

7
And were engaged in the Battle near Camden in August 1780, were drafted for 3 months and served accordingly. In the early part of 1781 were drafted again for 3 months under same officers and marched to N. Carolina and were in the Battle of Guilford. He served said term faithfully. He was also at the siege of Yorktown, but under whom he served, or how long, am not able to say. When I served with him, he acted as Sergeant the whole time. I am in the 81st year of my age (November 1839) & was a soldier of the Revolution. He served, also, in the Continental Line.
Sworn to before me, Wm. Deupree, J. P., who certifies to credibility of the witness.

8th William Paylor
   Was well-acquainted with Mr. Hughes, formerly of Lunenburg & late of Charlotte Co., in the War of the Revolution, and recollect most distinctly that before I entered
Page 22

8
The service he enlisted under Capt. Garland for 3 years in the Virginia Continental Army. I entered the service in 1777 and joined the main army at Valley Forge. There I met with said Wm Hughes, who was transferred to Captain Nathan Reid’s Company. We marched from Valley Forge to the Battle of Monmouth. After the battle the British marched to N.Y. and we to White Plains. From the White Plains we marched to West Point, where I was taken sick and sent to the hospital and never saw Hughes in the Army afterwards. He served to my knowledge upwards of 2 years. I am in the 86th year of my age (March 1841) and a pensioner.
Sworn to before Wm Deupree, J. P., who certifies that he is well acquainted with witnesses, that he is credible, and his mind not impaired.
Page 23

9th John M. Hudgens
Has known Wm Hughes and Sarah his wife for fifty years or more. Said Wm. Hughes was universally recognized in his neighborhood as a soldier of the Virginia Continental and Militia services, and was regarded always by me as such. Am in the 78th year of my age (Feb. 1847)
Sworn to before me, Wm B. Hobson, who certifies to credibility of witness. 

It will be seen by the foregoing abstract of the testimony, that one witness (Ambrose Haley) says that Wm Hughes served two terms of three months each in the Militia. All the other testimony relates to his service in the Continental Line. Two witnesses (Robt. Mitchell and Wm. Paylor) who were both pensioners, testify that they knew him, and served with him.
Page 24

Robert Mitchell says, that in the latter part of 1776, both he and Wm. Hughs enlisted under Capt. Garland, for 3 years, in the 14th Va. Continental Regt. and that Hughs served said term faithfully, and was honorably discharged. 
We have in the Pension Office the monthly muster and payrolls of said Capt. Garland’s Company from the month of August to Dec. 1777, inclusive. The name of Robert Mitchell appears regularly on said rolls, but the name of William Hughs or “Billy Hughs” does not appear on any of said rolls. If Hughs enlisted in the [marked out: month] latter part of 1776, for three years “and served said term faithfully” it is difficult to account for the absence of his name from the rolls in the office, embracing five months in the latter part of 1777.
Page 25

William Paylor says that he entered the service in 1777, and recollects distinctly that William Hughes enlisted under Capt. Garland for 3 years, some time before. That he met Hughes at Valley Forge, who was transferred to Capt. Nathan Reid’s Company &c..
   We have in the Pension Office the Pension Office [sic] the rolls of Capt. Reid’s Company, for the months of January, Aug, Sept, Octr, Novr, & Decr. 1777, -- for every month in the year 1778 except December and for January and February 1779. The name of William Hughs appears nowhere on any of said rolls. The name of David Hughs appears on the rolls of Capt. Reid’s Company after September 1778 and he is noted in the margin “enlisted September 14th 1778.”
There are several other wit=
Page 26

nesses who testify to the facts that said Hughes enlisted under Capt. Garland for 3 years, as stated by Mitchell but they are all equally unsupported by the rolls.
If the testimony of John Hughes can be relied upon, it tends strongly to identify William Hughes, the claimants husband, with the William Hughes to whom the certificate for £11.14.8 was given pursuant to the Act of November 1781. And the evidence of his having been reputed a Revolutionary soldier raises a strong probability that he must have been at some time a soldier in the War of the Revolution but how long or under whom he served is left entirely in the dark. If the said William Hughes is sufficiently identified as the person to whom the certificate for £11.14.8 was issued, he must must [sic] have served at least
Page 27

Months, and should be allowed for that time.
Ambrose Haley, who testified to six months service in the Militia, is not contradicted by any records, (for there are no records in existence to compare his statements with) but he is not supported by any other witness. 
I am of the opinion, in view of all the testimony, that this claim ought to be allowed for six months’ service.
J. J. Coombs
Page 28

Sarah Hughes, VA
Act 1838, No. 6524
Widow of William
Letter to W. J. B. Bedford 
17 March 1840 and 22 May 1840 
As: August 10th 1848
Same 22 October 1840
18
Act of July 1838
Page 29

Virginia ??24
To W. J. Bedford, Apl 5 1848?
to same 5th October 1849
to Hon. T. S. Bresch 22d Dec 1849
Set. To Thom F Ewing
[Illegible]
Page 30

Let. to T. Lumpkin Jan. 30/50
Act 7 July 1838
Page 31

10864 Richmond
Virginia
Sarah Hughes, Decd 
Widow of William Hughes, who was a pensioner under the act of [Blank] and who died on the August 1840 of Charlotte Co in the State of Virginia, who was a Sergt in the Company commanded by Captain [Blank] of the [Blank] commanded by [Blank] in the [Blank] line for [Blank.]
Inscribed on the Roll of Richmond at the rate of 30 dollars 00 cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 13th day of May 1850 and sent to  Tho. Lumpkin, Present
Total amount, $[Blank]
[Act July 7, 1838]
Recorded by J. P. Chase Clerk,
Book D. Vol. 1 Page 269
Payable to surviving children Charity Mason, Rebecca Ward, Sarah Thompson, Polly Hughes, and John M. Hughes
Page 32

10
Page 33

State of Virginia 
Charlotte Courthouse
June 27th 1849

Sir, 
In looking over a bundle of papers which I had laid aside some years since, I accidentally laid my hands upon the enclosed certificate of old Mr. Farley, which I supposed was filed in the pension office in the case of Sarah Hughes, widow of William Hughes, deceased. As the case is not yet determined, I presume, it is not too late to file it now. 

Old Mr. Farley was a man much respected by all who knew him; and I hope this certificate now enclosed, will have some weight and influence in the decision of the claims. By reference to same of my former letters, you will perceive that I made inquiries about the reception at your office of additional testimony and the findings of his papers, explains the whole matter. Mrs. Hughes claims under Act of 1838. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, 
your obt sert &c
Wm.. J. B. Bedford

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commr of Pensions
Page 34

Washington D.C.
November 9th, 1849

Sir, 
The letter herewith enclosed from Mr. Bedford, will shew you my authority in calling up the following case, Viz: upon which I respectfully ask of you the objections to their allowance. 
Mrs. Frances Crafton, widow of James Crafton, Act 4th July 1836, Virga; 
Abraham Keen, Act 7th June, 1832, Virginia; and Mrs. Sarah Hughes, widow of William Hughes, Act 7th July, 1838, Virginia. 
If upon a review of these cases anyone of them can be allowed without additional evidence, I shall be much gratified, or as before stated, point out the difficulty so as I may remove it if possible. 
I am, Sir, Mo. respy,
your obt sevt. 
Th. Lumpkin

Col. J. L. Edwards
Commr of Pensions

[in left margin]  Return to me [?]
Page 35

Thomas Lumpkin, Esq.
Washington City 
D.C.
Page 36

State of Virginia 
Charlotte Ct House
October 25th, 1849
Dear sir,
I received by our last mail your favor of the 20th instant with its enclosure of $35 on claim of Samuel Moore, father and heir at law of Robert H. Moore, deceased, for arrears of pay – all right, and consider this a receipt. 
I will employ you in eight or ten Revolutionary Pension Claims if you will be satisfied with 5 percent on the amount recovered. If no recovery, no pay. I only get myself 15 percent, and have to pay all cost and expense of prosecution, which from inspection of papers, you will discover is heavy. If I can recover the claims and get myself 5 percent clear of all expenses I shall be satisfied. 
If you agree to my proposition, I authorise [sic] you to examine, attend to, and prosecute the claims of Frances Crafton, widow of James Crafton, decd, under Act of July 4th, 1836; the claim of Abraham Keen under Act of June 7th 1832; and the claims of Sarah Hughes, widow of William Hughes decd,
Page 37

Under Act of July 4th, 1838.
There are rich claims, and I honestly believe to be just and equitable. 
If you desire me to inform Mr. Edwards that you have authority to act in these cases, write me immediately and it shall be done.
If you succeed in these cases, I will give a dozen more. 
I will thank you kindly to send all and every document you can conveniently lay your hands on, relating to Revolutionary Pension Claims, War of 1812, and Mexican  Claims. I do not regard the postage.
I have a large number of Virginia Land Bounty Warrants, both State and Continental, waiting for scrip. What are they worth at present?
I am very respectfully 
your obt. serv &c.
Wm. J. B. Bedford

Note: In the above cases take what you can get 

Thomas Lumpkin, Esq.
Washington City D.C.
Page 38

Oct 1819 [?][1830 agd. 72
Robert Mitchell [?], dec.
May 1780 18 mo. Oldham [Illegible]
Col. Campbell 
Disc. Decr 1781 in S. C.
Page 39

State of Virginia, Cumberland County to wit:
I do hereby certify that I have known Wm Hughes and Sarah his wife for the space of fifty years or more. The said William Hughes was universally recognized in his neighborhood, as a soldier of the Virginia Continental and Militia service, and that he was regarded always by me as such. I am in the seventy eight year of my age. 
John M. Hudgens 

State of Virginia, Cumberland County to wit:
This day, John M. Hudgens came before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, and made oath that the foregoing certificate subscribed by him, contained the truth to the best of his knowledge and belief. I further certify that he is a citizen of respectable standing and his statements entitled to full confidence. 
Given under my hand this 26th day of February 1847.
Wm. B. Hobson, J.P.
Page 40

State of Virginia, Cumberland County to wit:
I, B. B. Woodson, Clerk of the County Court of Cumberland in the State of Virginia, certify that William B. Hobson, whose name appears to the written certificate, is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Cumberland in the State of Virginia, and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the said Court this 4th day of March 1847.
B. B. Woodson, Clerk
Page 41

[Blank Page]
Page 42

State of Virginia 
Charlotte Courthouse 
March 13th, 1844

Sir, 
I enclose you some additional testimony in the case of Sarah Hughes, widow of William Hughes decd, for a pension under Act of 1837[8] which you will please file with the papers. 
I am very respectfully 
your obt sevt,
Wm. J. B. Bedford


J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commr of Pensions
Washington City D.C.
Page 43

State of Virginia
Charlotte Courthouse
July 30th, 1841

Sir,
   I now enclose you the certificate of William Paylor, a pensioner of The United States, in relation to the services of William Hughes, to be filed within the papers of Mrs. Sarah Hughes, his widow. This may explain the reason why the name of William Hughes is not found on the Roll of Capt Garland. It is well known, that soldiers were frequently transferred from one company to another, in order to complete the same.
   I have not had an opportunity of seeing Mr. Paylor myself, but when I do, trust that he will able to give information in relation to other soldiers of Capt Garland's company as certified by Mr. Robert Mitchell.
I am respectfully 
your obt. sert. &c.
Wm. J. B. Bedford

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Page 44

Free

J. L Edwards esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.


Sept 27 1841 [?]

Va
[?]
[overwritten vertically across address above:]
W. Tomlinson
S. Russell
F. Lewis
S. Hughes
Page 45

State of Virginia 
Charlotte Courthouse
September 22, 1841

Sir,
In the month of July, I enclosed at different times, to the pension office, additional evidence in the cases of Mrs. Winnifred Tomlinson, Mrs. Sarah Russell, Mrs. Frances Lewis, and Mrs. Sarah Hughes, not having heard any thing from the Department since in relation to either of those cases, you will very much oblige the parties interested, by informing me whether the said evidence reached office in safety. 
I am very respectfully 
your most obt. sert &c
Wm J. B. Bedford

J. L. Edwards, Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Page 46

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.
Page 47

State of Virginia
Charlotte Courthouse
August 16th, 1840

Sir,
I have received your letter dated 10th instant in regard to affidavit of Robert Mitchell, filed with the papers of Mrs. Sarah Hughes, widow of William Hughes decd. You state “the discrepancy between the statement of his services in his declaration under the Act of March 18, 1818, and his affidavit is such that full reliance cannot be placed in the letter.” You would much oblige by stating in what the discrepancy consists, as I am inclined to think, the Department has referred to the declaration of the wrong Robert Mitchell. There were two Robert Mitchells in this section, who were pensioners of the United States. The Robert Mitchell whose affidavit I sent you, is a worthy and reliable old soldier, and utterly competent to testify in any case whatsoever, as you will discover from testimony, which I shall forward to the Department in a short time. 
The Robert Mitchell who has testified in the present case, enlisted first under Capt. Garland, and then under Capt. Oldham. I think two separate and distinct enlistments, under either of which, he
Page 48

Was entitled under Act of March 18th 1818. I do not recollect under which service, he was allowed a pension for he tells me that in consequence of some mistake made by Mr. Bouldin in the drafting of his declaration, the pension claim was not allowed untill [sic] 1830. The Department will much oblige by stating the discrepancy, in order that every doubt on the subject may be removed, and satisfactory explanation furnished.
I am very respectfully 
your most obt sert, &c
Wm J. B. Bedford

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Page 49

Washington D.C.
December 6th, 1849
Sir, 
About the 1st of December, I sent authority W. J. B. Bedford, Esq. of Charlotte, Va, to call up for another hearing, the cases of Mrs. Mary Crafton, act 4th July, 1836, and others not now recollected. The letter will afford the names. Mr. Bedford has again written to me on the subject.
I would be very much indebted to you to cause early action upon the same.
I am sir, 
most respy, 
your obt ser,
Th. Lumpkin

Col. J. L. Edwards
Commr of Pensions
Page 50

Pension Office, 
December 22nd, 1849

Sir,
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of 15th instant, respecting the cases of Frances Crafton, widow of James Crafton, Sarah Hughes, widow of William Hughes, and Abraham Keen, and to inform you that the evidence in support of these claims, have been again very carefully examined, and the decisions which have already been communicated to Mr. W. J. B. Bedford, the Agent in these cases, I am constrained to adhere to.
I have the honor to be,
 very respectfully,
 your obt svt,
J. L. Edwards


Hon. Thomas S Bocock,
House of Reprresentatives.
Page 51

Washington D.C.
December 15th 1849
Sir,
You will much oblige me by causing as early as possible a review in the cases of Mrs. Frances Crafton, widow of James Crafton, act 4th July, 1836. Mrs. Sarah Hughes, widow of William Hughes, act July 7th 1838, and Abraham Keen act 7th June 1832, all of Virginia.
Mr. W. J. B. Bedford, my constituent, I learn has the Agency in these cases and considers them good claims, and such as ought to be allowed by your Office. I hope you will also think so.
I am, sir, 
most respy,
your obt sevt,
Th. S. Bocock


Col. J. L. Edwards 
Commr. of Pensions
Page 52

Sarah Hughes, Va
prf of Identity reqd.
Not on Roll of Capt. Garland’s Co.
Page 53

State of Virginia
Charlotte Courthouse
December 20th 1839

Sir,
You will find enclosed, the declaration, with accompanying papers, of Mrs. Sarah Hughes of Charlotte, who claims a pension under act of Congress, passed July 7th 1838.
through mistake of myself and the Clerk in entering the order of the Court, I find that Mrs. Hughes is represented as claiming under act of July 4th, 1836. 
I trust, the error will not be considered as material by the Department. If so, at our next court, will have the error corrected.
I am sir very respectfully 
your most obt sevt, &c.
Wm. J. B. Bedford

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Page 54

State of Virginia 
Charlotte Courthouse 
August 29th 1840

Sir,
In post reply to your letter of the 11th August, stating “that aged persons who are called upon to testify, it would be proper that the Magistrate should not only certify to their credibility, but also to the fact of their competency.” I send you the certificate of Capt. S. Ingram so far as regards Mr. Robert Mitchell’s filed in case of Mrs. Sarah Hughes, and other cases since enclosed to the Department.
In the same letter some complaint was made of discrepancy between his (Mitchell’s) declaration and affidavit. I requested that the discrepancy mist be pointed out, in order that justice might be done Mr. Mitchell, and his testimony given full weight.  As yet I have received no answers.  If the enclosed does not prove satisfactory an abundance of testimony to the same effect, can be furnished.
I am very respectfully 
your most obt sert. &c
Wm. J. B. Bedford

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 55

[Illegible]
17 June 1845
Charity Mason, Rebecca Ward, Sarah Thompson, Polly Hughes, John M. Hughes
Page 56

1yr
Robt Mitchell fifer Capt. Garland  1777
20
Page 57

Robt Mitchell, in his declaration 14th Dec 1829, says he enlisted same time in the month of May or June 1780, for 18 months, in the State of Va in the Co. commanded by Capt. Oldham, Col. Campbell’s Regt. in the line of the State of Va on Continental Establishment. Continued therein till December 1781 when was dischd. at Camden, S.C. States no other service.
Page 58

Don't act on, without instructions from Commr.
19
Page 59

[Blank Page]
Page 60

This is to Certify, That it appears from a List in this Office of such Officers and Soldiers of the Virginia Continental Line, during the Revolutionary War, as settled their Accounts, and received Certificates for the balance of their Full Pay, according to an Act of Assembly, passed the November Session, 1781, that a Certificate issued on the 28th day of August 1786, in the name of William Hughes as a Soldier of Infantry for £11.14.8 which Certificate appears to have been delivered to Jane Hughes and was given for services prior to the 1st January, 1782. 

Given under my hand at the Auditor's Office, Richmond, this 13th day of November 1889.
Jas. E. Heath, Auditor.

p412  [No Seal of Office.}
Page 61

Th. Lumpkin 
December 27/49
Appeals from decision of Commr of Pensions in the cases of Francis Crafton, Sarah Hughes, and Abraham Keen.
Letter annexed from Hon. Tho. S. Bocock urging that Mr. Lumpkin request be complied with. 

Commr of Pensions
for a Report
Dept of the Interior }
Dec 2 1849             }
Page 62

Washington D.C.
December 27th, 1849
Sir, 
I have the honor to enclose herewith the letter received from Col. J. L. Edwards, Commissioner of Pensions, in answer to one from the Hon. T. S. Bocock, asking to be informed as to the objections to the admission of the claims of Mrs. Frances Crafton, Mrs. Sarah Hughes, and Abraham Keen, all of Virginia.
Mr. W. J. B. Bedford, the attorney in each of the above cases, has employed me to look into these cases. He says that he has furnished new evidence in the two former [marked out: cases], and which he regards as sufficient to overcome the objection so long and pertinaciously waged against their allowance by the Pension Office, and he wishes me to appeal to you sir, to either have the claims allowed or to direct the objections to be pointed out, which the Pension Office has refused to do, as the letter indicates from the Commissioner of Pensions.
The Clerk who examined the cases  states that
Page 63

Mr. Beford is the Agent for these claims and says he has carefully examined the same. He does not even allude to the new evidence furnished nor deigns to notice me, altho. I had filed with the papers a letter from Mr. Bedford, authorizing me to attend to them for him.
I have the honor to be,
 sir, very respectfully, 
your obt sert,
Th. Lumpkin 

Hon. Th. Ewing
Secretary of the
Department of the Interior.
Page 64

House of Representatives December 27, 1849
Sir,
The claims alluded to in the foregoing letter, are waged on behalf of constituents as I understand and consequently I desire that they should be fully and fairly heard. Without going into the matters set forth in the accompanying letter of Mr. Lumpkin, I unite in his request, that an appeal may be allowed on them, to yourself as the head of the Department having charge over them.
I am very Respectfully 
your obt servant.
Th. S. Bocock

Hon: Thomas Ewing
Secretary of the Department of the Interior
Page 65

State of Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
I do hereby certify that I was well acquainted with William Hughes, formerly of Lunenburg, and late of Charlotte in the War of the Revolution and recollect most distinctly before I entered the service he enlisted under Capt. Garland for 3 years in the Virginia Continental Army. I entered the service in 1777 and joined the main army of Valley Forge, then I met with said William Hughes and he was transferred to Capt. Nathan Read’s Company. We marched from Valley Forge to the Battle of Monmouth. After the Battle, the British marched to New York and we to the White plains. From the White plains we marched to West Point whear [sic] I was taken sick and sent to the Hospittal  [sic] and never afterwards saw said William Hughes in the Army. He served to my knolledge [sic] upwards of 3 years. His widow is living in Charlotte. I am in the 80th year of my age and a pensioner of the United States. 
William  his X mark  Paylor 

Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
This day, William Paylor came before me, a Justice of the Peace in the county aforesaid, and made oath to the above setificate [sic]. I further certify that he is a credible person competent and disinterested and mind not affected from old age or sickness as coming within [my one knolledg[e] [sic]. [cut off] acquaintance of many years.  Given
Page 66

Virginia, Charlotte County Court
I, Winslow Robinson, Clerk of the County Court of the County aforesaid of the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that William Deupree is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the said County duly commissioned and qualified, and that the signature annexed purporting to be his is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of my office this 27th day of July 1841.
Winslow Robinson, Clerk
Page 67

Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
I do hereby certify that I was intimately acquainted with William Hughes, late of Lunenburg County, in the War of the Revolution; and recollect distinctly, that he and myself were drafted in the Militia from Lunenburg County, in 1780, under Capt. Walker, and marched to the south, and were engaged in the Battle near Camden in August 1780. We were drafted for three months and served accordingly. I further certify, that in the early part of 1781, we were drafted again for three months under same officers and marched to North Carolina, and were engaged in the Battle at Guilford . He served the said term faithfully. He was also at the siege of Yorktown, but under whom he served, or how long, I am unable to say. When I served with him, he acted a Sergeant the whole time. I am in the 81st year of my age, and was a soldier of the Revolution. He served, also, in the Continental Line.
Ambrose Haley

Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
This day Ambrose Haley came before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid and made oath to the above certificate. I further certify that he is a credible person and his statement entitled to full confidence. Given under my hand this 20th day of November 1839. 
Wm Deupree  JP
Page 68

Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
I, Winslow Robinson, Clerk of the County Court of Charlotte in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that William Deupree is an acting Justice of the  Peace in and for the said County duly commissioned and qualified, and that the signature annexed purporting to be his is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of my office this 20th day of December 1839.
Winslow Robinson
Page 69

State of Virginia: Charlotte County to wit:
I do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Sarah Hughes, the widow of William Hughes, and do consider her being an old lady, a cripple, and living some 15 miles from the courthouse, unable to attend the County Court of Charlotte, in order to make the foregoing declaration. I further certify that she is a credible person, and her statement entitled to full confidence. Given under my hand this 14th day of November, 1839.
T. F. Spencer, J P

Virginia, Charlotte County to wit: 
I do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Mrs. Sarah Hughes, widow of William Hughes, deceased, that said William Hughes according to my best recollection, departed this life on the [Blank] day of August 1810 in the County of Charlotte. That he left his widow,  said Sarah Hughes, who is still alive, resident in the said County, and that she has never intermarried but continues the widow of said William Hughes, deceased.
Stephen D. Turner

Sworn to and subscribed before me. I further certify that he is a credible person, and his statement entitled to full confidence. Given under my hand this 14th day of November, 1839.
T. F. Spencer, JP
Page 70

Virginia.  At a Court held [?] Charlotte County December 20. 1839 On motion the declaration of Sarah Hughes of Charlotte County, Virginia with accompanying documents and evidence for a pension under the act of Congress passed July 4th 1836 was presented in open Court and the whole of the papers read and fully explained to the entire satisfaction of the Court [?] and that the said declaration with accompanying papers be Certified to the war department.

I, Winslow Robinson Clerk of the said County Court of Charlotte in the state of Virginia do Certify that the foregoing order is a true copy from the records of my office and I do further certify that Thomas F Spencer is an acting justice of the peace in & for the said County duly Commissioned and qualified, and that the signatures annexed purporting to be his are genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of my office this 20th day of December 1839.  
Winslow Robinson C.

[vertically]

6524 R
"Sarah Hughes--" decd.
widow of William
for a Pension
Virginia
under Act July 4th 1838
admitted 6 m days--
$30
[?] 4 march 1836 to  41
from 43 to 17 June 1845-when
she died.
h.d. Augt. 1810 Children
not in Roll of Capt 
Garland Comapany
14 [?]Virginia

T. Lumpkin
Present
X
Page 71

State of Virginia, Lunenburg County to wit:
I, Robert Mitchell, do hereby certify that I was intimately acquainted with William Hughes in the War of the Revolution, and recollect that in the latter part of 1776, he and myself enlisted under Capt. Garland, for the term of three years in the Virginia Continental Line, and was attached to the 14th Virginia Regiment commanded by Col. Charles Lewis. He served the said term faithfully, and was honorably discharged. His widow Sarah Hughes, I know, is living in Charlotte, being well acquainted with her. They were married in Cumberland County. I am in the 85th year of my age, and a Pensioner of the United States.
Robert   his X mark Mitchell

Virginia: Lynchburg County to wit:
This day, Robert Mitchell, came before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, and made oath that the above certificate subscribed by him in my presence, contained the Truth. 
I further certify, that he is a Pensioner of the United States, and that he is a credible person, and his statement entitled to the utmost confidence given under my hand this 20th day of July 1840. 
S. Ingram JP
Page 72

State of Virginia, Lunenburg County (to wit)
I, William H. Taylor, Clerk of the County Court of Lynchburg in the State of Virginia do hereby certify that Silvanus Ingram is a Magistrate as within stated, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine. In testimony whereof, I have affixed the seal of said Court, and subscribed my name this 22nd day of July 1840. 
Wm. H. Taylor, Clerk of the County Court of Lunenburg
Page 73

Robert Mitchell
Page 74

State of Virginia, Lunenburg County to wit:
I, Silvanus Ingram, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Robert Mitchell of this County, who is a Pensioner of the United States, and take pleasure in certifying, that I have known him for many years, and have always considered him not only a credible person, but one fully competent to give evidence in any case whatever. His mind has not been impaired, or his memory lost, in consequence of the effects of sickness or old age. He has qualified to several certificate before me, all of which I honestly believe to be true and correct. Given under my hand this 20th day of August, 1840. 
S. Ingram, J P

State of Virginia, Lunenburg County (to wit): 
I, William H. Taylor, Clerk of the County Court of Lunenburg in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that Silvanus Ingram is a Magistrate as above, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine. In witness whereof, I have affixed the seal of the said court and subscribed my name this 28th day of August 1840.
Wm. H. Taylor, C
Page 75

Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
I, Seth Farley, of Charlotte County, do hereby certify that I was well acquainted with William Hughes, deceased, in the War of the Revolution and whom a distinct recollection that in the year, 1776, he enlisted as well as my memory now serves me, under Capt. Garland, in what was called the Virginia Minute Service, or Continental Line, for the term of three years, which term he faithfully served. I further certify that he has been dead for a great many years, and that he left a widow who is still living according to the latest intelligence I had of her. The said William Hughes after joining the Army might have been transferred to some other company – I know he served three years.
Seth Farley

Virginia, Charlotte County to wit:
This day, Seth Farley came before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid and made oath to the foregoing certificate subscribed by him in my presence. I further certify that he is a credible person, and his statement entitled to full confidence given under my hand this 22nd day of May, 1840. 
John Brookes
Page 76

Charlotte County Court
I, Winslow Robinson, Clerk of the County Court of Charlotte in the State of Virginia do hereby certify that John Brooks is a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County duly commissioned and qualified and that the signature annexed purporting to be his is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of my office this 23rd day May 1840.
Winslow Robinson
Page 77

February 23, 1937.
XXXXXXX XXXXXX
BA-J/ady

Mrs. Walter G. Mason
Coalwood
West Virginia

Dear Madam:
   Reference is made to your letter relative to soldiers of the Revolutionary War.
   Revolutionary War data furnished by this office are obtained from claims made to the United States for pension and bounty land based upon military service of soldiers in that war.
   A careful search of the records fails to show such a claim on file on account of the services of James McGill or John Jacob Decker, John Decker, Jacob Decker as described by you, all spellings of the names searched.
   The records of William Hughes and the only Jacob Weiss that is found on the Revolutionary War records of this office, of Northampton County, Pennsylvania, are furnished you herewith, on separate pages, as found in the claims for pension based upon service in that war.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
Page 78

Benjamin Hughes 
Mooresboro, No Ca
Page 79

This is to Certify, That it appears from a List in this Office of such Officers and Soldiers of the Virginia Continental Line as settled their Accounts and received Certificates for the balance of their full pay, according to An Act of Assembly, passed the November Session 1781, directing the Auditors of Public Accounts to settle and adjust the pay and accounts of the said Officers and Soldiers from the 1st January 1777 to 31st December 1781, (See Hening's Statutes at Large, Vol. 10, p. 462,) that a settlement was made on the 28th day of August 1786 in the name of William Hughes as sol. Inf. and evidence of the indebtedness of the State to him for £11.14.8 delivered to Jane Hughes but as the original settlements or copies thereof are not to be found in this Office, the term of service embraced therein cannot be stated.
Given under my hand, at the Auditor's Office, Richmond, this 16th day of June 1854.
G. W. Chilton
Art. P. Heah
{NO SEAL OF OFFICE}

Benjamin Hughes?
Dear sir, Auditors Office Richmond,
Above you have certificate of service as rendered by Mr. Hughes --yours respectfully &c.
Porterfield A Heiskell
2nd Clerk