Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 19,290, James Fletcher, Mass.
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(3-1776)
[column headings: SERVICE|[blank]|NUMBER|]
Mass.|Fletcher, James|W. 19,290|
[blank]|Catharine|B.L.Wt. 11087-160-55|
[end of columns]
CONTENTS
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18.617
Vermont
James Fletcher of Windsor Co in the State of Vermont who was a private in the company commanded by Captain [blank] of the Reg't commanded by Col Brewer in the Mass'tts line for 2 years.
______
Inscribed on the Roll of Vermont at the rate of 80 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
______
Certificate of Pension issued the 21 day of Sept 1833 and sent to Walter Palmer Woodstock
______
Arrears to the 4th of Sept 1833 - $200.00
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 March '34 40.00
$240.00
{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.}
Recorded by W. L. Williams Clerk,
Book C Vol. 3. Page 65
Page 3

[verso]
Letter to Arannah Spear Aug't 4, 1849
Died July 11, 1856 Agency book
[margin note: Revy 3d m 55-63048]

[recto]
517
Vermont Montplr
Catharine Fletcher widow of James Fletcher Mass who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private. Inc'd from $30.56
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80 Dollars [blank] Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 4 day of June 1849. and sent to Walter Palmer Woodstock Vt
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act, February 2, 1848, Page 53 Vol. 3
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[handwritten letter]
Barre January 28th, 1837 
Dear Sir, I rec'd your Letter the fore part of the present month but in consequence of the sickness and death of my wife, I have not given it the early attention I should had it been otherwise.
I have made search of the Town Records but can not find the marriage you alluded to on the Record of the Town, but I did find the Record of the marriage on the Book of the Rev. Josiah Danna, but his Record says that they were married the 15th day of July 1779. I below send you a Certificate as requested. I have been to some trouble and spent some time you will please forward me one Dollar
Yours /s/Lyman Sibley Town Clerk of Barre Ms. 
Mr. Walter Palmer
James Fletcher and Catharine Russell were joined in marriage July 15th 1779 by Josiah Dana Minister of Barre
The above is a true copy of the Record as found on the Book of the late Rev. Josiah Danna
Attest /s/Lyman Sibley Town Clerk of Barre Ms.
Jany. 28th, 1837
Page 5

[addressed envelope]
12 1/2
Mr. Walter Palmer
Woodstock Vt
[postmark: BARRE MS JAN 9]
Page 6

63, 048 Act. March 2/55
April- 12- 1855
----------------------------------------------
Catherine Fletcher Widow of 
James Fletcher, Priv.
_______________________________________
Applicant is a revolution Pensioner refer to
papers under act Feb. 1848
certificate dated June 4th 1848
in support her bounty Clark 
Mass. Mill
_______________________________________
Feby 48 - 517
Ad:160 acres N. 21/55,
Boyth
______________________________________
Oel Billings
Woodstock
Vermont

Oel Billings.  Oct. 6th 1855
                      Oct. 23rd "
Vol. F.  page 14.
Page 7

STATE OF VERMONT,}
WINDSOR COUNTY, SS.}
On this 4th day of August A.D. 1832 personally appeared in open Court before the Judge of the Probate Court of Hartford District
now sitting, James Fletcher -a resident of the county of Windsor and State of Vermont, aged Seventy five years, who being first duly sworn
according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain
the benefit of the act of Congress, passed June 7, 1832.
That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated in 1775 he lived in Barre in the State of Mare about the 1st of May he enlisted into Capt John Black Company in Colo Brewer Regiment State troops marched to Cambridge there Joined Genl Green Brigade Stationed on Prospect Hill said then eight month was discharge the 1st of January 1776 then returned
the fore part of January 1776 he enlisted into Capt Brewer Company in Colo Whitney Regiment (State troops, marched to Dosahe
he was stationed in Preston Point opposite the Castle the there three month was discharged the forepart of April 1776
& returned home the last of June or the foot of July in said year he enlisted into Capt Benja Gates Company in Colo Holmes
Regiment & State troops marched to New York stationed in the City staid about one month went to Greenwich & staid about six weeks & the army returned to Bloomingdale there an engagement took place with the British our
Army returned to Harlem Heighth, the next day or engagement took place & the British were brought there he say bolo Knowlton that was killed in the action he then went to White Plains was in that Battle then went [went] to a place called battle Bertland manner & was there discharged the wit of Due then returned home in the year 1777 about the 1st of one he entered into Capt Stockwells company in Colo
Curshing Regiment (State hooks, marched to Bennington in the State of Vermont staid there about six weeks then went to half Moon point on the North River staid.
There about two weeks under command of Genrl Lincoln a continental officer at the time Genrl Stark had the Battle at Bennington he sent for Genrl Lincoln to come to his assistance the Army
Page 8

James Fletcher's Declaration 97
Page 9

was put in motion immediately & marched
about fifteen miles the Battle was at Bennington
on Saturday & Genl Lenial Army arrived on Sunday there he saw the British prisoners
that were taken, he was stationed there as a Guard until his time of service expired which was about the last of August he then returned home immediately after he returned home these was accept made in the town where he lived & one Genison Law was chasted & he took the said Law place & went a substitute for him in Capt Lords Company under the command of Major Ran & Bowman marched to Still Water stationed on Bemis Height, staid over one month.
Genl Warren Commanded at that place
during which time there was two Bottles fought
one on the 19th of Sept & the other on the 7th
of October which last mentioned Battle he was
in the British retreated to Saratoga & on
the 17th of October Genl Baurgaine Surrendered
to Genl Gates. He then went to Albany
staid there about three days there west to the
White Plains there was a General of three
Hundred me sent to Barrytown for the
purpose of Guarding the stores that he was
one of that Guard staid there until he was discharged which was sometime in December then returned home in the year 1776 some time the fore part of April he entered into Capt Marine Company mented to Cambridge was employed as a guard said three or four weeks then inteled under Capt Whale for the month to build Barracks at Rutland in Massachusetts under the command of Colo Davis who supertended the work & staid his time out returned home the next day after he enlisted under the said whale for one month to build 
Barrack at the same place staid his time out
there remained home-
Page 10

in 1775 when at Cambridge he served with said
Massachusetts Regiment Col. Jonathan Brewer & Col Preat in 1776 he served with Col. Whitney & Col. Stone
Page 11

That during the time he was in the service he knew Genl Washington Green Lee Putman &
Sullivan  jc- that he has no Documentary
evidence & knows of no person whose testimony he can procure who can testify to his services except the testimony hereunto annexed she was born in Rutland the 28th day of February A.D. 1757

In 1779 he removed to Chesterfield New Hampshire & lived there four or five years upon then removed to the Town of Woodstock where he now lives & has even some that he is known to most of the inhabitants in particular to Rev Seth Sterline & Abiah Rice who can testify to his character for warranty & their beliefs of
his services as a soldier of the revolution. jc

He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the Agency of any State.

Sworn to and subscribed the}
day and year aforesaid}
L. A. Marsk, Register          James Fletcher

We, Seth Sterline a Clergyman residing in Woodstock and Abiah Rice residing in the same place, hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with James Fletcher who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be 75 years of age;
that he is reputed and believed, in the neighbourhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.                                Seth Sterlin
                                                          Abiah Rice
Sworn and subscribed the}
day and year aforesaid}
L A Marsh, Register
-
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter
, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that Seth Sterlin who has signed the preceding certificate, is a Clergyman, resident in Woodstock
and that Abiah who has also signed the same, is a resident in Woodstock and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, Lyndon A Marsh, Register of the Court of Probate of the District of Hamshire do here certify, that the foregoing contain the original proceedings of the court in the matter of the application of James Fletcher for a per


In testimony whereof, I have hereunto
set my hand and seal of office this
fourth day of August A. D. 1832
L A Marsh, Register
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                      3811
James Fletcher

Admit 
2 year
Page 13

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
April.23d 183

Sir:

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

A Statement, shewing the Service of James Fletcher

Period when the service was rendered.
1775
Duration of the claimant's service. 
Years. I Months. I Days.
   "              8          "
Rank of the claimant.
Private
Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served.
Colo. Brewer
Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service.
age 75 years
Proof by which the declaration is supported.
Affidavit of Bezeleel Myrick so far

Period when the service was rendered.
1776
Duration of the claimant's service. 
Years. I Months. I Days.
   "              8          "
Rank of the claimant.
Private
Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served.
Colo. Whitney & Colo. Holmes - 
Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service.
entered the Service at Barre Mass - lived there at the time
Proof by which the declaration is supported.

Period when the service was rendered.
1777
Duration of the claimant's service. 
Years. I Months. I Days.
    "             6          "       
Rank of the claimant.
Do
Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served.
Colo. Cushings 
Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service.
 
Proof by which the declaration is supported.
Period when the service was rendered.
1778
Duration of the claimant's service. 
Years. I Months. I Days.
    "             5          "       
Rank of the claimant.
Do
Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served.
Colo. Davis
Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service.
 
Proof by which the declaration is supported.
Affidavit of Abiah Rice

Duration of the claimant's service. 
        Years. I Months. I Days.
Amt    2             3          "       

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

Mr. James Fletcher
Windsor
vt~
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2
REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers, all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c., Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.

Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
1. The Regular Troops.
2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.
3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.
4. Indian Spies.

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

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

State, Territory, or District of	⎱	s.s.
County of				⎰

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.

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

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

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

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

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

If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person
Page 15

3
will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal
means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and
there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his
case.
The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State
troops of Virginia.
1. Where and in what year were you born?
2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?
4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such
Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.
6. {To a Soldier. To an Officer. 
{Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom it was given, and what has become of it?
{Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify
as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons--one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed
and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion.
If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.
The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before
required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is
his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before
the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the
declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure,
taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period
of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
_____________________________________
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served on the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the 
claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length  of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the 
Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason
of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades:__For__ year__months, and__ days, I served as a__ For__ months and __days, I served as a__; and for such service I claim a pension."
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months, is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some 
persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable.
It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement;
the particular place or places where the service was performed;
that the applicant served; with an embodied corps called into service 
by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[f] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.

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

Proof of Service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses
who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged.
The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
[finger pointing right] The notes from [a] to [i] are al equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[k] This traditionary evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[l] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.
Page 16

            X 1388
Catherine Fletcher
Catherine Fletcher
widow of James
VT

alleged date of Marriage 6 of June 1779
last service fall of 1778


SW. Palmer Esq
Woodstock 
Vt.
Page 17

State of Vermont}
District of Hartford SS}   On this 4th day of January AD 1837 personally appeared before the Judge of the Probate court of Hartford District now sitting, Catherine Fletcher a resident of Woodstock in the County of Windsor & State of Vermont, aged 75 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 provisions made by the Act of Congress passed July 4th 1836
       That she is the widow of James Fletcher late of said Woodstock  deceased who was a private in the War of the Revolution and who was placed on the Pension list of the Vermont Agency under the Act of Congress passed the 7th day of June AD 1832.
           She further declares that she was married to the said James Fletcher on the 6th day of June AD 1779 that her husband the aforesaid James Fletcher died on the 10th day of July 1834 and that she has remained a widow ever since that period, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed- and also reference to the Declaration of the said James Fletcher & the other proof of the Military Services of the said James Fletcher now on file in the pension Office of the United States in support of her claim for a Pension ___            her
                                      Catherine  X  Fletcher
Witness                                     mark
 Walter Palmer

Sworn and Subscribed the day and year first above written.
                               Oel Billings Register.
I Ole Billings Registrar of the Court of Probate of the District of Hartford do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Catherine Fletcher for a pension.  
In testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and Seal of Office this 4th day of January AD. 1837          Ole Billings Register.

[there is the imprint of a round seal.  it is illegible but the scales of justice can be seen.]
Page 18

63.048
Page 19

     FORM OF WIDOW'S DECLARATION FOR  
                    BOUNTY LAND
State of Vermont}
County of Windsor} ss.   On this 28 day of March one thousand eight hundred and fifty five personally appeared before me,  a Justice of the Peace, within and for the County and State aforesaid.  Catherine Fletcher aged 93, years a resident of Woodstock in the State of Vermont, who being duly sworn according to law declares that she is the widow of James Fletcher, deceased, who was a Private in the war of the Revolution, and served as set forth in his declaration made under the act of June 7, 1832 and drew a pension in his life time of $80 per annum.
    She further declares that she made her declaration under the act of Congress of Feby 2d, 1848 and was placed on the pension lists roll of the Montpelier Vt. Agency under Said act , and now draws a pension of $80 per annum, as per a certificate of pension in her possession dated 4th day of June 1849.
     She now refers the Pension Department to the file in their office for evidence of her marriage to said James Fletcher, his services in said war and death

She further states that she was married to the said James Fletcher in Barre Mass, on the 15th day of June A. D. 1779 by one Rev.d Mr. Dana Minister of the Gospel, that her husband died at Jericho Vermont on the 10th day of July A. D. 1834 and that she is now a widow.

   She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which she may be entitled under the act approved March 3d, 1855.
 She also declares that she has not received a warrant for bounty land, under this, or another act of Congress, nor made any other application therefor.
she requests this certificate when issued forwarded to Oel Billings Esq of Woodstock 
                                       her
                      Catherine  X  Fletcher
                                   mark 

We Madison Converse and Melissa E. Bryant residents of Woodstock in the State of Vermont upon our oaths declare that the forgoing declaration was signed and acknowledge by Catherine Fletcher in our presence, and that we believe from the appearance and statements of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be, we personally know she is a widow.
                        Madison Converse
                         Maliss E  Bryant

The forgoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written; and I certify, that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that i have no interest in this claim.                          Oel Billings
                                   Justice peace.
Page 20

State of Vermont,}  I, Norman Williams, Clerk
Windsor County, ss}  of the County of Windsor, in
the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that Oel Billings was, at the date of the paper writing to which this is attached, and still is, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly qualified to administer oaths and take acknowledgment of deeds, and that his signature foregoing is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I  hereunto subscribe my name and affix the seal of said Court, at Woodstock in said County of Windsor, this 7th day of April A.D. 1855.
Norman Williams Clerk.
Page 21

In reply to your request of ______________, received __________ for a statement of the military history of James Fletcher a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this bureau.
Page 22

[this document is divided into three columns.  the first column says:]
ist to W. P Baxter, Chicago
inquiry in I. 41, 158
__________________________
Fletcher, Minnapls, Minn
______________________________
1917 Apl. 2. History to A.  R. Allen 
letter in wt. (warrant?) 49.03o-160-55 Noseph
Thompson, Mass. (the cent sign) 1912 Apl. 21
date of wid. death to Mr. Allen- (the cent sign)
1918 Jan. 2. to K. S. Nicholas. (cent sign)
________________________________________________
[the second columns reads:]

Rev   WIDOW, &c.
_____________________
File No.   19290
Catharine Fletcher
Wid of 
James Fletcher
Riv Rev. War
_____________________
Act:  Febry 2nd   /48
Index: -  Vol. t (?),  Page 24

[Arrangement of 1870.]

[third column reads:]

July 25, 1904 St.
Ill- letter of y
 Hist to F. F. F. Fletcher 25, 1904
Page 23

5709

Sec Walter Palmer

July 20 '29
Page 24

[this document is totally black and nothing is legible]
Page 25

11.087

}
16o  Aug
Page 26

370
Vermont, Montpl
_________________________
Catharine Fletcher
widow of James.
who was a private
in the Mass. Line
_______________________
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80 Dollars  
__cents per annum, to commence
on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Inc. from $30. 56.
________________________________
Certificate of Pension issued
the 4 day of June 1849
and sent to 
Walter Palmer
Woodstock Vt
________________________________________
[Acts of March 3, 1843, & June
17, 1844.]

Recorded in Book A
Vol. 2   Page /12
Page 27

Vermont - 3.930
___________________________
Catharine Fletcher,
widow of James Fletcher,
who was a pensioner under the Act of 7' June 1832
and who died on the 10' July  1834
of (illegible) in the State of Vermont 
who was a pri. in the  compy commanded
by Captain (illegible of the Reg commanded
by Brewer in the Mass
line for 9 months 5 days
______________________________________
Inscribed on the Roll of Montpelier
at the rate of 30 Dollars 56 Cents per annum,
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
__________________________________________________
Certificate of Pension issued the 21 day of Aug
'39 and sent to Walter Palmer,
Woodstock, Vt.
_______________________________________________
Arrears to the 4th of Mar. -             $91.68
Semi=annual allowance ending        15.28
                                                         __________
                                                           $ 106.96
                                                    ________________
                                                {Act July 7, 1838}
Recorded by R. Bre. Burdine Clerk,
Book A  Vol 2   Page 39
Page 28

o. 63048
____________________
ACT OF MARCH. 3, 1855

Received Apr, 12, 1855

James Fletcher
Rev. War

Warrant 11087-60-55

Oel Billings
Woodstock
Vt
Page 29

                                517.                                                 Let to Hon J. Collamer
May 5, 1840
to (illegible) May 12, 49
Reported

Vermont, Montpelier
____________________________
Catharine Fletcher
widow of James Fletcher
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a private
______________________________________
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 30 Dollars 56.
cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
__________________________________________-------
Certificate of Pension issued the
27 day of June 1848,
and sent to 
Walter Palmer
Woodstock Vt.
_____________________________
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act
February 2, 1848,  Page 53  Vol. 3
Page 30

370                                 instructions under the 
Vermont Montpelier.       Act of 1844 sent to 
______________________         to Walter Palmer
Catherine Fletcher             Woodstock, Vt
                                           July 15. 1844.
widow of James Fletcher,
who was a private
in the Massachusetts line
for 9 mo 5 days
______________________
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 
30 Dollars   56/100
Cents per annum, to commence on
the 4th day of March, 1843.
_____________________________________
Certificate of Pension issued the 
16th day of June, 1843.
and sent to 
Walter Palmer
Woodstock, Vermont
____________________________________
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book A
vol.  1    page 26.
Page 31

3930.
Vermont, Montpelier
________________________
Catherine Fletcher
Widow of James who was a pensioner under the Act of '32 and who died on the 10th July 1834 of Windsor in the State of Vermont was a Pri in the company commanded by Captain   ___of the regt. commanded by Brewer in the Mass line for 
_________________________________________________
Inscribed on the Roll of Montpelier 
at the rate of 80 Dollars __cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of 
March, 1836.
(illegible) from $30.5/
_______________________________________________
Certificate of Pension issued the 4 day of 
June 1849 and sent to Walter  Palmer
Woodstock Vt
__________________________________________
Total amount,  $_____________________
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by Leo. Jenkins, clerk
Book D  Vol. 1  Page 127.
Page 32

Catherine Fletcher
Page 33

State of Vermont} On this 6th day of July AD
Windsor County Ss}  1844 personally   appeared before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace within and for said County Catharine Fletcher a resident of Woodstock in the County of Windsor aforesaid aged 83 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 provisions made by  the act of Congress passed on the 3rd of March 1843 and the act in addition the acts passed June 17th 1844 revising and extending said act of March 3rd 1843 for and during the term of four years from and after the 4th of March 1844
That she is the widow of James Fletcher late of Woodstock aforesaid deceased who was a private in the army of the Prevolution and served as set forth in his declaration under the act of June 7th AD 1832, that she was pensioned under the adct of July 7th 1832, that she was pensioned under the act of July 7th 1838, and of March 3rd 1843 and drew a pension of $30.56 per annum, and she now claims a pension  further of four years from and after the 4th of March 1844 pursuant to said additional act. She further declares that she still is a widow.  
                                                    her
Witness                         Catharine   X    Fletcher
Susan Fletcher                           mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written before me, and I further Certify that the Declarant above named is personally known to me
Walter Palmer Justice of the Peace

State of Vermont,} I, Norman Williams, Clerk
Windsor County,...ss.} of the County Court of the County of Windsor in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that  Walter Palmer is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly commissioned and qualified; that his commission was dated on the 31st day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred an dforty three and will expire the thirtieth day of November next, and that his signature heretunto attested is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said County Court, this 8th day of July A.D. 1844.     N.  Williams Clerk
[the vermont state seal appears at the bottom left]
Page 34

3.50

Adm, private $30.56/100

Send to Walter Palmer
Woodstock
Vermont

Montpelier Agency
Page 35

State of Vermont}  On this first day of April
Windsor County Ss.}  AD 1843 personally appeared before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace within and for the County of Windsor aforesaid Catherine Fletcher a resident of Woodstock in the County of Windsor aforesaid aged eightyone 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 act of Congress passed on the 3rd March 1843 granting permission to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary  War
That she is the widow of James Fletcher deceased who was a private during the Revolutionary War in Col [blank space] Regiment of Massachusetts State troops
That she received a pension of Thirty Dollars and 56 cent per annum under the act of July 7th 1838
She further declares that she is still a widow 
Witness  Polly Jones                        her
W. Palmer                      Catharine    X   Fletcher
                                                     mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written And I hereby Certify that the above name Declarant is personally known to me.
Walter Palmer Justice of the Peace
Page 36

State of Vermont } On this 3rd day April 1839
Windsor County ss } personally appeared before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace within and for said County
Jasper Fletcher a resident of Woodstock in said County aged 42 years who being first duly sworn according to law doth depose and say that he is a son of James Fletcher a Revolutionary pensioner, late of Woodstock aforesaid Deceased and that Catherine Fletcher widow of the said James Fletcher is his mother and that the
said James Fletcher died on the 10th day of
July 1834 and that the said Catherine Fletcher is
now a widow, and has remained a widow ever
since the death of the said James Fletcher and is
now living in said Woodstock Jasper Fletcher

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written and I hereby certify that the
said Jasper Fletcher is a credible witness -
Walter Palmer Just Peace

State of Vermont } I Benjamin Swan Clerk of
Windsor County ss } Windsor County Court hereby Certify that Walter Palmer who has subscribed his name to the foregoing is a Justice of the Peace within and for the County of Windsor aforesaid duly commissioned and
qualified and that the same is his genuine signature -
Witness my hand and seal of said Court this 3d day of April 1839 -
Benj Swan Cleck
Page 37

Woodstock Vt. Feby 17th 1837
Sir
Enclosed with this is the Declaration of Mrs. Catherine Fletcher who claim the Continuation of her late husband James Fletchers Pension under the Act of July 4th 1836.
It will be perceived that the time of the marriage of Mrs. Fletcher as stated in her Declaration does not agree with the Record made by the Clergyman who married them, She having made her Declaration previous to obtaining the Certificate of the marriage, she is now confident that she is right & the Clergyman is mistaken.
When an examination is had I wish the return addressed to me.
Respectfully your
Walter Palmer
Hon J L. Edwards
Page 38

I Jasper Fletcher of Woodstock County of 
Windsor & State of Vermont of lawful age testify & say that I am the son of James Fletcher late of said Woodstock deceased a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States & that Catharine Fletcher is my mother that she is now a Widow & has remained so ever since the death of my father James Fletcher which was on the 10th day of July 1834.
Jasper Fletcher

State of Vermont Woodstock June 4th 1837
Windsor County Ss } Then Jasper Fletcher personally appeared & made solemn oat that the foregoing Affidavit by him subscribed contains the truth & nothing but the truth.
Before 
Walter Palmer Just. peace.

I hereby certify that the above named Jasper Fletcher is a credible witness                                    Walter Palmer Just. Peace

State of Vermont}  I Benjamin Swann
Windsor County Ss  Clerk of Windsor County
Court hereby certify that Walter Palmer who has affixed his name to the above is a Magistrate duly Commissioned and qualified & that his signature above is genuine__
In witness whereof I hereunto affix the seal of said Court & subscribe my name this day of January AD 1837--
Benj. Swan Clerk
Page 39

Jas. Fletcher
Page 40

State of Vermont } Woodstock May 28th, 1833 -
Windsor County ss } Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of peace within & for the County of Windsor, James Fletcher who being duly sworn deposeth & sayeth that by reason of old age & the consequent loss of memory he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his services, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below & in the following grades
For two years & three months I served as a
Private, & for such service I claim a Pension -
& for the time during which the service was performed I was not imployed in any civil pursuit, that I served with an imbodied Corps, called into service by competent authority & performed the service as I have stated in my said Declaration which this is an addition or amendment thereto -
& I further depose & say that I know of no
person living who can testify to either term of my service except the testimony inclosed in my said
Declaration -
James Fletcher

Sworn to & Subscribed the day & year above written
Eli. Dunham Just. Peace
State of Vermont } Woodstock May 28th 1833
Windsor County } ss I Benjamin Swan Clerk of
Windsor County Court do hereby certify that Eli
Dunham who has affixed his name to the above
is a Magistrate duly qualified & that the above is
his genuine signature. In testimony whereof I
have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of said Court at Woodstock this 28th day of May AD 1833 - Benj. Swan
Page 41

I Abiah Rice of Woodstock County of Windsor & State of Vermont of lawfull age testify & say that in 1794 I was acquainted with James Fletcher the first of April the said Fletcher was then in the service of the united States under the command of Colo. Davis in Capt Merine (?) Company  I belonged to the same company Stationed at Cambridge about the first of May the said Fletcher enlisted for the month in to the Capt. Wheeler company under Colo Davis went to Rutland Mass to build barrack Gen'l Bourgaine's Army was there
and further deponant sayth not.
Abiah Rice

State of Vermont}
Winsdor County Ss }
Woodstock August 4th AD 1832  Then Abiah Rice personally appeared & made Solemn oath that the above Affidavit by him subscribed contains the truth & nothing bur the truth before me & I hereby certify that the said Abiah Rice is a Credible Witness     
Walter Palmer
Justice of peace
Page 42

I Barzella Myrick of Middlebury, County of Addison and State of Vermont of lawfull age testify and say that I was acquainted with James Fletcher in the year 1776 then of Barre in the County of Worcester in the the State of Massachusetts that the said Fletcher was in the service of the United States eight months stationed on (illegible) (K?) ill in Cambridge in Capt John Blacks Company in Col Jonathan Bowkes Regiment and in the year 1776 the said Fletcher was in the service of the United States three months in Capt Bowkes Co in Col Whitneys Regiment stationed at Dorchester in Massachusetts on Prestons (?) Point so called, and the same year the said Fletcher served in Capt Gates Company  in Col Holmens Regiment five months at New York during all which time I was with the said Fletcher and  we were mates together and I was further knowing the said Fletchers being in the service of the United States three months in the summer of 1778 stationed in old(?) Rutland as one of the gard for prisoners, the officers under whom he served i am not now able to recolect,
and further the deponant saith not
Bezeleel Myrick 

State of Vermont}
Addison County Ss}  
Bridport July 20th  1832
then personally appeared Barzella Myrick and made solemn oath that the above affidavit by him subscribed contains the truth and nothing but the truth.
I hereby certify that the said Barzella Myrick is a credible witness
Solomon Mason Justice of the Peace
Page 43

State of Vermont}
Addison County Ss}  I Samuel Swift, Clerk of the County Court for the said County of Addison do hereby certify that Solomon Mason, before whom the within affidavit of Bezaleel Myrick was made was at the time a Justice of the peace for Said County, and his name Subscribed thereto is his own Signature.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my hand and affixed th the seal of Said Court this 18th day of May  1833.
Saml. Swift.
[the image of a round sun burst edged seal is visible.]
Page 44

Woodstock Vt  Oct 20, 1855

Sir,

I enclose the "Addition evidence" in the application of Catherine Fletcher widow of James Fletcher for bounty Land.
I am Respectfully your Obt. Ser.
Oel Billings
Page 45

[round stamp says:]                                                     W. RANDOLPH. VT.
July
26

J L Edwards Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington  D C

[written sideways is:]     3
                                    _________
Mr. (?) Smith
3r July 149
Page 46

Braintree Vermont July 21, 1849
Sir
I forward t you through the Post Master Jon J. balamer, the" Declaration of Widow Catherine Fletcher the widow of James Fletcher which reached your office about the 7th of May last which was made before Richard Hayes Justice under the act of 2 of feb. 1848and the joint Resolution of July 1st 1848 and have not heard any thing from the Pension  department in relation to the same.
Learning that other cases have had attention Sent to the Depart since the 7 of May last I take it for fact that this claim has been duly considered and if the consideration has been sent for me it has ben by mistake misdirected or miscaried or some (illegible)  I saw the old lady tuesday last and she claimed to have done nothing about it since April 24 last or hearing from those proceedings in any manor.
The department is requested to send to me a statement of the present condition of that claim if my papers have been sent to whom directed and when if any directions or communication has been sent in in relation to that claim since to the Department May 7 by whom since and any other last request to fully explain the situation of the case and very much oblige your most Obt Servt
Hon J L Edwards                  Ardanah Spear
Com Pensions
Page 47

Pension Office,
May 5, 1849.

Sir,
      In answer to the application of Mrs. Catharine Fletcher for increase of pension, I have the honor to inform you that before her claim can be adjusted, she must return to this office, the certificate issued to her on the 27th June last and sent to Walter Palmer, Woodstock, Vermont.
I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your Obt Servt.,
J L Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions

Hon. Jacob Collamer
Postmaster General.
Page 48

Adm Acts
'38
43444
48
at $80 per annum,
did'g former payts
at $30.56 perdun

Walter Palmer
Woodstock,
Vt.
Page 49

State of Vermont}  Be it known that at
Windsor County}  Woodstock in s'd {said} County on this 24th day of April 1849 personally appeared before me Richard Hayes a Justice of the Peace in for sd [said] County of Windsor aforesaid duly authorised by law to administer oaths Catherine Fletcher a resident of Woodstock aforesaid Aged 88 years- who being first duly sworn according to law, doth upon her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed on the 2nd day of February 1848 and a joint resolution of July 29 1848, granting Pensions to Widows of Persons who served during the Revolutionary War-  That She is the Widow of James Fletcher, who was a Private in the Revolutionary War and was a Pensioner at the time of his death, at the rate of Eighty dollars per Annum - his Pension Certificate she thinks was dated Sept 21st, 1833 under the Act of the 7th of June 1832_ That she has drawn a Pension under the act of 7th of June 1844.__for the Sum of Thirty dollars & fifty six cents per annum ___ She farther declares that she has not inter married- but still remains the Widow of sd [said] James Fletcher         her 
                                   Catherine  X  Fletcher
witness Aaron Harrington        mark
Sworn to & subscribed this 24th day of April 
 1849. Befor eme.
Richard Hayes  Justice of Peace}
I hereby certify that the above named Catherine Fletcher is personally known to me and is a Pensioner as she states in the above declaration.
Richard Hayes Justice Peace
Page 50

STATE OF VERMONT}
Windsor County...ss.}

I, Norman Williams, Clerk of the County Court, of the County of Windsor in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that Richard Hayes is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly commissioned and qualified" that his commission was dated on the 3d"day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty eight and will expire the thirtieth day of November next, and that his signatures on the paper annexed are genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said County Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this 24 day of May A.D. 1847
                         Norman Williams, Clerk
Page 51

  Mrs. Fletcher
vermont
Catherine Fletcher
     370


admitted


Walter Palmer
Walter Palmer
Woodstock
 Vt.
Page 52

STATE OF VERMONT,}
Windsor County Ss}

On this 12th day of June A. D. 1848 personally appeared before Walter Palmer Justice of the Peace within and for the County of Windsor and State of Vermont Catherine Fletcher a resident of Woodstock in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont aged 87  years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 2d February, 1848, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the revolutionary war; that she is the widow of James Fletcher late of Woodstock aforesaid Deceased, who was a private in the Army of the Revolution and that she made her declaration under the act of July 7th 1838, and drew a pension under that, and the subsequent acts in relation thereto, of Thirty dollars, and fifty six cents per annum And she now makes this declaration in order to obtain a continuation of her pension during her natural life.
She further declares that she is still a widow.
   Witness                                      her
Jerusha Palmer            Catherine  X Fletcher
                                                   mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written,                           Before
                                        Walter  Palmer 
                                     Justice of the Peace

I certify that the above named applicant is personally known to me and she is the same individual who drew a pension as stated by her in the foregoing declaration by her made
                                 Walter Palmer
                             Justice of the Peace
Page 53

STATE OF VERMONT }  
  Windsor County..ss.}  
I, Norman Williams, Clerk of the County Court of the County of Windsor in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that  Walter Palmer is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified; that his commission was dated on the 30" day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty seven and will expire the thirtieth day of November next, and that his signatures foregoing are genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said County Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this 1t day of June A. D. 1848
                       Norman Williams      Clerk.

[in the upper left corner is the imprint of the  seal.  the words are not quite legible and there is a picture of an open book superimposed on the scales of justice.]
Page 54

              State of Vermont

I, William A. Palmer, Governor of the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that Solomon Mason, before whom the annexed affidavit was sworn and whose name is attached to said affidavit, was at the date thereof, a Justice of the Peace for the County of Addison in said State duly appointed and qualified as such, and that full faith an credit are due to his official attestations.
                 In testimony whereof I have
                  hereunto set my hand and caused
                 the seal of said State to be affixed
                  to these presents at Danville this 
                  20th day of July AD 1832 and of 
                  the Independence of the United 
                   States, the fifty seventh.
                           W. A. Palmer
By the Governor                [the image of a 
Edward D. Barber Sec.        sun burst shaped
                                             seal appears on                                                                                                                                               t                                            the bottom left.]
Page 55

               Woodstock Vt November 16th 1855

Sir. 
     In answer to yours of Oct 23. relative to the Service of James Fletcher in the Revolutionary War, to sustain the Claim of Catherine Fletcher to bounty land under Act of 3d March 1855, you state that in the certificate of Secretary of State of Mass. filed in support "of the Claim of Mrs Catherine Fletcher for bounty land, shows that one James Fletcher was in the Continental line under Col. Bigelow from 1777 to 1780. three years which could not be the husband of the applicant etc. etc."
    I now forward the 2d Certificate of Secretary of Mass. which appears in part to follow his, s'd J.  Fletcher, declaration in Col Cushings Regiment in 1777. for more than 14 days service. all that is necessary to entitle the widow to bounty Land.
       I am Respectfully you Obt. Ser
                      Oel Billings

Hon. J. Minot
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D. C.
Page 56

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Secretary's Office, Boston.
November 14th 1855

I hereby certify that from an examination of the Books and Documents relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that the name of James Fletcher is borne on pay roll of Capt. Ephaim Stockwell Comp. Col. Job Cushings Regt. from July 28th to Aug 29. 1777 1 month 7 day. Have included from Worcester County. Also on pay roll of Capt. Thomas Lords Comp. Co Job Cushings Regt. "at the taking of Bergoyne" from Sept 22 to Nov 30 1777 2 mon 19 days. Have included from Worcester County also an pay roll of Capt. William Marceans's Comp. Col. Stearns Regt Of guards, guarding the Troops of Convention, from the 27th of March 1778 3 mons 6 days as Private Capt. Marean was from Hubbardston, Worcester County.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
E. M. Wright
Secretary of the Commonwealth
Page 57

Woodstock Vt. April 12th 1839

Sir,
Enclosed with this are the papers in the case of Mrs. Catharine Fletcher for a pension under the act of July 7th 1838. Mrs Fletcher supposed herself entitled to a pension under the act of July 4th 1836 and her papers were made and sent to the pension office, and it turned out in point of fact, that her marriage took place after the expiration of the last term of Service of her husband James Fletcher.
A certificate of the marriage was attained and sent with the paper in that can which I wish to have made use of in that case, and the marriage took place in Mass and it will save the expense of getting an other 
When an examination is had please direct the return to me.
Respectfully yours,
Walter Palmer
Page 58

Catherine Fletcher
         V    5793           1388      (36)
Catherine Fletcher

               Vt
    Act 7 July 38

m 79-D34

Vol 14.10. x 75-
       25.167._________76     3 m(o?)
       20.216__________77.     2. 2g
       21.60 __________78.      3.   6
                                         _______
                                            9.5

m. 79. d. 34
      admd
    9 mo.   5 ds   (illegible)
_________________
$30.50/100
no deduction

Walter  Palmer
Woodstock 
Vt.
Page 59

State of Vermont
Windsor County
District of Hartford 

On this 3rd day of April 1839 personally appeared before the judge of Probate Court of Hartford District made setting Catharine Fletcher a resident of Woodstock in the County of Windsor aforesaid aged 77 years who being first duly sworn according to laws doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to attain the benefit of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed July 7th 1838 entitled an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows.
That she is the widow of James Fletcher who was a Revolutionary pensioner under the act of June 7th 1832 who then and until his decease resided in Woodstock aforesaid and the evidence of the Military Services of the said James Fletcher being now in the Pension Office on which she relies for the support of her claim for a pension
She further declares that she was married to the said James Fletcher on the [blank] day of June Seventeen Hundred and seventy nine that her husband the aforesaid James Fletcher died on the 10th day of July 1834
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 viz at the time above states that the day of the month she was married she does not recollect. 

Catherine J. Fletcher
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year
first above written before John S. Marcel Judge
Page 60

State of Vermont
Windsor County
[???] District. I Col Billings register of the court of Probate of the District of [???] do hereby certify that the forgoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Catharine Fletcher for a pension.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this third day of April [???] 1839
Col Billings Register
Page 61

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's office. Boston,
Oct 16th 1855.

I hereby certify, that from an examination of the Books and Documents relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that The name of James Fletcher is borne on Continental Army Books in Capt. Brown's Comp. Col. [???] Regt. From may 4 1777 to may 4 1780. 36 mon as Private from Acton.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
E M. Wright.
Secretary of the Commonwealth
Page 62

Act of March 3, 1855.
Revolutionary Claims.

Pension Offices,
Sir: October 6" 1855

The claim of Catharine Fletcher, for bounty land under the act of the 3d of march, 1855, No. 63. 048 has been examined and suspended.
The Revolutionary service of James Fletcher, the husband of the applicant does not appear of record in this office.
The 3d section of said act requires a service of "fourteen days" to be established by "record evidence"
Upon the production of such evidence of service, the claim will be favorably considered.

Very respectfully,
J. Minot
Commissioner

Col Billings. Esq.
Woodstock Vt.
Page 63



63.048
Page 64

Woodstock Vt April 9. 1855

Sir, 
I forward the application of Catharine Fletcher widow of James Fletcher (a Soldier of the Revolution) to obtain her bounty land under the 8th section of the act of march 3rd 1855,

I am respectfully yours of Serv. [???]
[???] Billings.
Hont. L. P. Waldo
Comm. of pensions
Washington City
D. 6.
Page 65

Payment to be made at Montpelier by Rawsel R. Heithy Agent for paying pensioners, in the Agency of Vermont.

Payable on the 4th September and 4th March

Recorded in the pension office on the Roll of Pensioners under act February 2d, 1848, Page 53, Vol. 3. .
Leo Jenkins
Clerk
Page 66

War Department.
Widow's Pension.

I certify that in conformity with the act of February 2d, 1848, Catharine Fletcher. Widow of James Fletcher who was a Private in the revoltionary war, is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of thirty dolars and fifty six cents per annum, commencing on the 4th of March, 1848, and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.

 Given at the War Office of the United States this twenty seventh day of June one thousand eight hundred and forty eight.

W. L. Marcy
Secretary of War.

Examined and Countersigned.
J. L. Edwards
Commissorner of Pension.
By F. S. Evans
Page 67

General Post Office
May 7, 1849
return to the inclosed to the
Pension Office and inform the Commissioner
that I keep no memorandum of the cases
of pension papers now and I request that all
communications may be made direct to the
persons who sent the papers through and to
the office
J. Collamon
Col J. L. Edwards -
Commissioner of Pensions
May 7. 1849
Page 68

FRANK F. FLETCHER
BANK OF COMMERCE BUILDING
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.
OLD WAR & NAVY
MAY 18 1904
FILES.

Minneapolis, Minn., May 13, 1904.
Mr. E. F. Ware, Commissioner,
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Sir: -
I note your favor of the 5th inst. in answer to my inquiry as to a duplicate copy of
the pension claim of James Fletcher, Revolutionary War, that you cannot furnish full copy of papers.
The information I seek is whether the
above soldier referred to is an ancestor of mine, and from the information sent me I cannot definitely determine the matter.
If you could furnish me, if such facts
are given in his application, with his birthplace,
town from which application is furnished, also name of wife, if given, would probably clear the matter up to my satisfaction, and trust you may see your way clear to let me have this information,
Yours truly,
Frank F. Fletcher
PENSION
A
MAY 16, 1904
OFFICE
Page 69

Alvin R. Allen                                pd(s?)   
Philadelphia                                   Rev     
2230 East Allegheny Ave.
April 16, 1917.

The Commissioner,
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Sir:   

Referring to the report you gave me of the war record, &c, of James Fletcher, I wish to state that it was just what was desired, and I wish to thank you for the same.
However, you state that his wife Catharine Russell was allowed a pension on her application of Jan. 4, 1837.  Now, if possible, please give me the date of the birth and death of Catharine Russell Fletcher.  [ the words date, birth and death  are underlined.]  
This is resired for D. A. R. data.  I am also writing Barre and Rutland, Mass. for information as to other family data.
Thanking you for this attention and reply, I remain,
Yours very truly,
A. F. Allen.

Refference
I. S. C.
W. File 19.290
Rev. War.
Page 70

[company letterhead with profile of american eagle, wings flared.]

AMERICAN INSURANCE COMPANY.
of Newark, New jersey.
F.F. Fletcher, State Agent.
Offices: 409-10-11 
Bank of commerce Building.

Minneapolis, Minn.,.. April 29, 1904...
[handwritten]  ES 882
Commissoner of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:-
In re your report of April 14th, 1904, on the military history of James Fletcher, soldier of the Revolutionary War, will ask if you have any data with reference to his wife Catherine Fletcher, (maiden name Russell), filed in connection with his application for pension or in connection with any application for pension which she may have made.
Yours Truly,
F. F. Fletcher

[rectangular stamp]
W.                           S.
OLD WAR & NAVY
APR23  1904
FILES
P.                            B.

[round stamp]
PENSION
A
  APR
U. 21 S.
1904
OFFICE.
Page 71

[handwritten across the top of the letterhead is:]

check mark, one 3 cent stamp rec'd n.  
Revo. Sec .  Revo. Sec.   w
                                                   K.S.Nichols,
                                                  1872  Selby Ave.
                                                   St. Paul, _ Minn.
          CHAS. FRIEND & SON INC.
Trade     Jobber and manufacturers  Trade
    F                                                         F
 Mark                                                    Mark
            Harness, Saddlery Hardware
               Horse Collars Leather Etc
                 343-345 Jackson Street
                                    St. Paul Minn

                                   December 17, 1917.
Bureau of Pensions,
               Washington, D. C.
Gentlemen:-
                    Will you please give me the military record of Mr. James Fletcher, as shown in Revolutionary War Records  
     I. S. C. W. File 19290?
         He was granted a pension August 4th, 1832.
                                     Yours very truly,
                                        KSNicholas  
KSN/FB
                                              K. S. Nichols.
                                              1872  Selby Ave,
                                               St. Paul. - Min
[round stamp]
PENSION
   O
U.  DEC  S.
    20
   1917
  OFFICE
Page 72

Rev. War Section   
                                              April 21, 1917.

Mr. Alvin R. Allen,
  2230 East  Allegheny Ave.,
     Philadelphia, Penn.
Sir:
    In response to your letter dated the sixteenth instant, you are advised that in the papers filed in the claims of James and Catherine Fletcher, W. File No. 19,290 Rev. War, the date of her birth is not stated.  She died July 11, 1856. [there is a cross shaped asterisk next to the date.]
               Very respectfully,

                                   G. M. Saltzgaber
                                    Commissioner.
[handwritten ]
Taken from Agency (cross shaped asterisk) book.
Page 73

I. S. C. Ex'r.
Wid. 19, 290.
Revolutionary War.
July 25, 1904.
Sir: --
Upon a further search of the records in this Bureau, another "James Fletcher" is found to have left a widow Catharine, who was
pensioned for his services, as follows:

James Fletcher, who was born February 28, 1757, in Rutland, Mass., applied for pension August 4, 1832, at which time he was a resident of Woodstock, Vt.

He stated that he resided at Barre, Mass., and enlisted 1775; Private, Capt. John Black's Co., Col. Jonathan Brewer's regt. Mass. State troops; discharged January 1, 1776; eight months.

Enlisted January 1776; Capt Col. Whitney, State troops; discharged April 1776, three months.

June or July 1776; Capt. Benjamin Gates, Col. Holmes, State troops; was in engagement at Bloomingdale, Harlem Heights, and battle of White Plains; discharged December 1, 1776, at Cortland Manor.

Served as substitute under Capt. Lord, Majors Ran and Bowman; was in battle of Bemis' Heights, October 7, 1777.

March 20, 1778; Capt. Mavine; three or four weeks.

Later under Capt. Wheeler, Col. Davis; four months.

June 1, 1779; Capt. Stockwell, Col. Cushing, State troops; service expired in August, at Benington, Vt.

His claim was allowed.

He was married to Catharine Russell, July 15, 1779, by Josiah Dana, Minister of Barre, and died July 10, 1834.

She was pensioned as his widow, residing at Woodstock, Vt., aged 88 years in 1849.

son Jasper, of Woodstock, aged 42 years in 1839 testifies to widowhood.
Very respectfully,
Mr. F. F. Fletcher,
Bank of Commerce Building, Minneapolis, Minn.
Page 74

I.S.C. Ex'r.

Widow, 19, 290.
Revolutionary War
Sir:-       July 25, 1904.

[All crossed out]

In reply to your inquiry you are advised that James Fletcher, who was born February 28, [covered up 8 with a 5 over it]1757, in Rutland, Mass., applied for pension August 4, 1832, at which time he was a resident of Woodstock, Vt.

He Stated that he resided at Barre, Mass., and enlisted 1775; Private, Capt. John Black's Co., Col. Johnathan Brewer's regt. Mass. State Troops; discharged January 1, 1776; eight months. 

Enlisted January 1776; Capt. Bowker, Col. Whitney, State Troops; discharged April 1776; three months.

June or July 1776; Capt. Benjamin Gates, Col. Holmes, State troops; was in engagement at Bloomindale, Harlem Heights, and battle of White Plains; discharged December 1, 1776; at Cortland Manor.

Served as substitute under Capt. Lord, Majors Ran and Bowman; was in battle of Bemus' Heights, October 7, 1777.

March 28, 1778, Capt Mavine, three or four weeks.

Later under Capt. Wheeler, Col. Davis; four months

June 1, 1779; Capt. Stockwell, Col. Cushing, State Troops; service expired in August, at Bennington, Vt.

His claim was allowed.

He was married to Catharine Russell, July 15, 1779, by Josiah Dana, Minister of Barre, and died July 19, 1854.

She was pensioned as his widow, residing at Woodstock, Vt., aged 88 years in 1848.

Son Jasper, of Woodstock, aged 42 years in 1839, testifies to widowhood.

Very respectfully, 

Mr. W. P. Baxter,
P.O Box 238,
Chicago, Ill.
Commisioner
Page 75

The National Archives 
Form VAM-51
12-5-41 

Bounty Land Warrant Record Card*
Division of Veterans' Administration Archives


Name Fletcher, James Grade Private Line New York

Warrant Number 7129 Acreage 100 Issued Sept. 28, 1790 to Alexander Robertson, assignee

*The information concerning the issuance of warrants carded on this form is found in volumes 2 to 4 of "Land Warrants Issued Prior to 1800" which are registers of bounty land warrants issued to non-commissioned officers and private under congressional resolutions of September 16, 1776, and subsequent dates. Other records relative to the applications for warrants appear to have been destroyed in the War Department fire of November 9, 1800. Information concerning warrants surrendered to the Federal Government is to be found in General Land Office records in the National Archives.