Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 9425, Benjamin Elston, New Jersey
Page 1

(3-1776)
SERVICE 
New Jersey
Elston Benjamin
or Ellston  
Elizabeth
NUMBER 
W. 9425
B.L.Wt. 29032-160-55
CONTENTS
Page 2

32.279
Kentucky
Benjamin Ellston of Trimble Co in the State of Kentucky who was a private in the company commanded by Captain Lane of the Regt commanded by Col. Davis in the New Jersey line for 6 months.
Inscribed on the roll of Kentucky at the rate of 20 dollars --- cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 23 day of January 1845 and sent to N Lane Sargeant at arms H.R.
Arrears to the 4th of Sept 44 $270.00
Semi-annual allowance ending 4 Mar  20.00
$280.00
Revolutionary Claim Act June 7, 1832
Recorded by E M Stewart Clerk
Book E-2 Vol. 7 Page 15
F Burt May 5 54
Page 3

6.253
Kentucky
-----------------
Elizabeth Elston,
widow of Benjamin Elston N.J.
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private
---------------------
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of
20 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
---------------------
Certificate of Pension issued the
9th day of May 1854
and sent to A.D. Johnson
Sligo
Henry Co., Ky
---------------------
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act
February 2, 1848, Page 232 Vol. 3

32
Page 4

162.412  Act March  [illegible]
June 7 / [illegible]
Elizabeth Elston widow of Benjamin Elston  Paris
Revolution
6252
[illegible]
Cri. M B Pearce Apr 16 / 56
Vol. E 74

No 29 / 32 to May 29 /
Page 5

State of Kentucky
Trimble County
On this 25th day of April 1846 personally appeared before Robert B. Gray a justice of the peace in and for said county and one of the judges of the Trimble County Court Benjamin Ellston a resident of the said county and state aged 84 years who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declarations in order to obtain the benefit of Act of Congress passed June 9, 1832.
He states that he entered the service of the United States and served as herein stated, that is to say in the month of Oct of the year 1777 as well as he remembering he volunteered for the term of six months in a company of Minute Men commanded by Capt. Lane, that he volunteered and entered the service as a common soldier and served as such, that at the time he was a resident of the County Borough of Elizabeth and state of New Jersey. He states that his services were required and performed mostly in the said County and that during six months for which he volunteered he was actually and actively engaged in the performance of military duty in the service of the United States more than the one half of the time, that he is convinced and fully knows that during said period of six months he served at the least three months actively and faithfully.  He further states that immediately after the expiration of six months to wit in the month of August he again volunteered as a private soldier in Capt Lane's (same captain) company of minute men for an indefinite period it being understood that all who enrolled themselves were to be and remain in reading to march at a minutes warning. The
Page 6

name of the Lieutenant was G. Darley and that of the Ensign was Osburne.  He further states that Col Davis assumed the control of the movements after his said company or rather that the said was attached to his command as Col.  This declarant further states that he was attached to this company for about the period of two years and that he actually served and was engaged personally in the service for at least one year of that time.  He states that he performed much hard service during said period, that he was present and was engaged in the battle of Springfield when the town was taken and burnt by the British.  He further states that during his said service he has often seen Gen Washington, Gen Green and Gen Wayne.  He declares that he has no documentary evidence of his services and that he does not now know of any person now living by whom he can prove his services.  He states that from bodily infirmity he is unable to attend court to make his declaration.  He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a person or annuity, except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state.  
Ben Elston
Sworn to and subscribed this day and year aforesaid Robt B Gray

1st Where and in what year were you born?
Ans I was born on the 25th Dec 1759 in the County Borough of Elizabeth and State of New Jersey.  
2.  Have you any record of your age and if so where is it?
Answer [illegible]
Page 7

3. Where were you living when called into the service; where have you lived since the revolutionary war, and where do you now live.
Answer. I lived in the Borough of Elizabeth in the State of New Jersey when called into service and in the year 1780 I moved to the state of N. Carolina with my father where I remained for about 8 years and thus moved to Woodford County Ky where I lived about six years and I then moved to Henry County KY now Trimble County where I have lived ever since.  
4. How were you called into service, were you drafted, did you volunteer or were you a substitute, & if a substitute for whom?
Answ  I was a volunteer
5th.  State the names of some of the regular officers who were with the troops where you served; such as continental & Militia regiments as you can recollect and the general circumstances of your service.
Answer I remember to have seen Gen Washington, Green & Wayne and Col Davis.  
I was in the Battle of Springfield and various smaller skirmishes.  My services were principally confined to the Borough of Elizabeth and were directed to the keeping down the British parties and protecting the County from their violence.
6th.  Did you ever receive a discharge from the service; and if so by whom was it given and what has become of it?
Answer.  I never received any discharge.
7th.  State the names of persons to whom you
Page 8

are known in your present neighbourhood and who can testify as to your character for veracity & their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
Answer.  I name William Ball and Wm. B. Williams
Sworn to & subscribed the day & year aforesaid
Benjamin Elston
The William D. Ball a clergyman residing in the County of Henry and Wm. B. Williams residing in the County of Trimble hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Benjamin Ellston who has subscribed and sworn to the above declarations, that we believe him to be 84 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.  
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.  William D Ball  Wm. B. Williams
And I the said Robt B Gray justice of the peace and one of the judges of the Trimble County Court as afs. do hereby declare my opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogations prescribed by the war department that the abovenamed applicant was a revolutionary soldier and served as he states.  And I further certify that it appears to me that William Ball who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the County of Henry.  By and that Wm B. Williams who has also signed
Page 9

the same is a resident of Trimble County and is a credible person and that their statement is entitled to credit. Given under my hand the day & year first aforesaid.  I further certify that from bodily infirmity the said applicant is unable to attend court to make his declarations.  
Robt B Gray J.P.T.C.
State of Kentucky
Trimble County
I William Samuel Clerk of the Trimble County Court do hereby certify that Robert B. Gray who has signed the preceding certificate is a justice of the peace in and for said county and one of the judges of the Trimble County Court and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereto set my name & affixed my seal of office this 23rd day of April 1846.
W. Samuel Clk
The department will please confer with A D Johnson Henry County [illegible] on the above claim of Benjamin Elston sent to [illegible]
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State of Kentucky
Trimble County
On this 23rd day of Oct personally appeared before me a justice of the peace for said county and one of the Judges of Trimble County Court Elizabeth Elston a resident of the said county aged about 75 years who being duly sworn according to the law upon her oath makes the following declarations in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed in July 1838 and June 17th 1844.  She states that her maiden name was Elizabeth Long, that she was born Nov 9th 1770 and was married duly & legally as she supposes and believes to Benjamin Elston in Burke County in the State of North Carolina on the 18th day of Nov 1791.  She states that her said husband served as a soldier in the war of the Revolution as he has afore told her and that he was placed on the pension list of the United States under the act of June 7th 1832 as she is informed and believes at the rate of $20 per annum.  That her said husband died on the 5th day of January 1845 leaving her his widow and that she is still his widow and has not married since his death and she now claims a pension on account of his services.  She states that her marriage was recorded in an old Bible and some years ago the record was transcribed into a new one purchased by her husband by her son in law Wm. B. Williams.  She states that she has hereunto attached the said record of her marriage and that from bodily infirmity she is unable to attend court to make her declaration.  Sworn to and subscribed this 23rd day of October 1845
Elizabeth Elston
Page 11

State of Kentucky
Trimble County  }  SS
I John Abbott a Justice of the peace for said County & one of the Judges of the Trimble
County Court hereby certify that the above named Elizabeth Elston this day personally appeared before me and made subscribed and was duly sworn to the forgoing declaration and I also certify that she is personally known to me and is the widow of Benjamin Elston deceased and is a credible person and is unable on account of her Bodily infirmity to attend court to make her Declaration
Given under my hand & seal this 23 day of Oct. of 1845.
John Abbott J P.T.C.

Commonwealth of Kentucky
Trimble County  }. SS
I William Samuel Clerk of the Court of Trimble
County do hereby certify that John M Abbott whose signature is to the foregoing certificate is a justice of the peace for Trimble County, and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my name and affixed the seal of my said
Office this 10th November 1845
W. Samuel Clk
Page 12

Trimble County Kentucky }  Sct
ordered of the said County Court at the Feb. Term 1846 thereof that the proceeding of John M Abbott Justice of the peace for said County for the within named Elizabeth Elston widow of
Benjamin Elston decd pensioner be and the same is hereby approved and ratified by the court as though it had originally been done in this court

12,388
I William Samuel Clerk of the said County Court do hereby certify that the above order was made as appears above by said County Court at the Feb term 1846

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of my office This Feb. 9th 1846
W Samuel
Page 13

162.412
--------
Elizabeth Elston
Declaration for
Bounty Land
Under Act of
3d of Oct 1855
-----------------
Direct Warrant
to M.B. Pearce
Newcastle Henry
County Ky.
Page 14

State of Kentucky County of Henry on this 19th day of May 1855 Personally appeared before
me a Justice of the Peace within and for Henry County and the State aforesaid Elizabeth Elston
aged Eighty six years a resident of Henry County who being duly Sworn according to law Declares  that she is the widow of Benjamin
Elston deceased who was a minute man in the Revolution and that he served Fourteen days or was held in readiness for service the name of commanding Officers she does not now remember that he said Husband was stationed in the State of New Jersey and there held subject to orders of his officers

That by virtue of his services she now draws a pension and she refers to that declaration for Proof of service and for actionf acts which she cannot remember

She further states that she was Maryed [married] to said Benjamin Elston in Barren County North Carolina in the year 1786 or 1787 that she
has no record of her marriage either private or public but refers to former declaration for
pension for proof of Marriage

That her name before her said Maryage [marriage] was Elizabeth Long
Page 15

that her said Husband Died in Trimble County Kentucky in the year 1846 and that she is now a widow at this date  She makes this Declaration
for the purpose of obtaining the Bounty Land to which she may be entitled under the act of
Congress approved the 3d of March 1855
She also declares that she has never received a warrant for Bounty Land under this or any other act of Congress nor made any other application therefor
                  her
Elizabeth   X    Elston
                Mark

We John Antell and Daniel Carpenter residents of Henry County in the State of Kentucky upon our oaths declare that Elizabeth Elston in our presence made her mark to and acknowledged
the foregoing declaration and we believe from her appearance and statements that she is the Identical person she represents to be that we
have been in the neighbourhood of Benjamin Elston for many years and that we know Benjamin Elston and Elizabeth Elston who is the
claimant herein lived together for many years prior to and up to the time of her Death as man and wife
John Antell
Daniel Carpenter
Page 16

The foregoing declaration and affidavits of John Antell and Daniel Carpenter were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written and I certify that the affiants are well known to me and that they are creditable
persons that claimant is the person she represents herself to be and that I have no interest whatever in this claim
John Chitton JP H.C

State of Kentucky
County of Henry. }. SS
I Edmund P Thomas Clerk of the Henry County Court Certify that John Chitton whose signature appears above is and was at the time of
signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace  in and for Henry  County and that the signature 
thereto is genuine

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my hand and affixed the seal of my Office
E. P. Thomas C
Page 17

Page of Births

Benjamin Elston was born in
December the 25th AD 1759
----------------------
Elizabeth Elston was born November
the 9h AD 1770--
---------------------
Sarah Elston was born April
the 23d AD 1790
---------------------
Mary Elston was born in March the 2d AD 1792
---------------------
John Elston was born in February the 26th AD 1795--
---------------------
Anna Elton was born in June
the 24th AD 1797
---------------------
Martha Elston was born
July the 14 AD 1799
---------------------
Page 18

Births
----------------
Jonah Elston was born in
October the 14th AD 1800
----------------
Jonathan Elston was born in
October the 24th AD 1903--
----------------
Elizabeth Elston was born
in March the 7th AD 186-
----------------
Caroline Elston was Born
in August the 28th AD 1809
----------------
Benjamin Elston was born in
May the 23d AD 1810
---------------
Ferneta Elston was born in
April the 15th AD 1813
---------------
Page 19

Page of Births
-----------------------
Benjamin Elston  Sr was born in
December the 29th Day AD. 1759 -
----------------------
Page 20

Births
---------------------
Martha Elston was Born
July the 14th AD 1799
---------------------
Louis Elston was born in
Page 21

Parents
Benjamin Elston was born in
December the 25 AD 1759
---------------------
Elizabeth Elston was born November the 9th AD 1770 -
---------------------
Children of the Elstons
Sarah Elston was born April 
the 23d AD 1790
---------------------
Mary Elston was born in February
the 20th AD 1792
---------------------
John Elston was born in February
the 26 AD 1795
---------------------
Anna Elston was born in June
the 24th AD 1797
---------------------
Martha Elston was born July
the 14 AD 1799--
----------------------
Jonah Elston was born in
October the 14th AD 1800
----------------------
Jonathan Elston was born
October the 24 AD 1803
-----------------------
Elizabeth Elston was born
in March the 7 AD 1806
-----------------------
Carolina Elston was born
in August the 26th AD 1809
-----------------------
Benjamin Elston was born
in may the 25 AD 1810.
----------------------
Firnita Elston was born
in April the 17th AD 1813
----------------------
Page 22

WCS
am

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section

November 18, 1926

Grace S. Hancock
Sulphur
Henry County, Kentucky

Madam:

I have to advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 9425, it appears that BENJAMIN ELSTON was born
December 25, 1759, in Elizabeth, New Jersey.

While a resident of said place he enlisted in October, 1777, and served at various times, amounting to one year and three months
in all, as a private in Captain Lane's Company in Colonel Davis' New Jersey Regiment; he was in the battle of Springfield.

He was allowed pension on his application executed April 25, 1844, at which time he was a resident of Trimble County, Kentucky.

He died in Trimble County, Kentucky, January 5, or 15, 1845.

He married November 18, 1786, 1787 or 1788, in Burke County, North Carolina, Elizabeth Long. She was allowed pension on her application
executed October 23, 1845, at which time she was living in Trimble County, Kentucky. Said Elizabeth was born November 9, 1770.
Page 23

Children of Benjamin and Elizabeth Elston:

Sarah  born April 23, 1790.
Mary    "   March 2, 1792.
John     "  February 26, 1795.
Anna     "  June 24, 1797.
Martha  "  July 14, 1799.
Jonah   "  October 14, 1800.
Jonathan " October 24, 1803.
Elizabeth  " March 7, 1806.
Caroline " August 28, 1809.
Benjamin " May 23, 1810.
Fernita.  "  April 15, 1813.

In 1845 Elizabeth Elston (who was then the widow of Benjamin Elston) stated that William B. Williams was her son-in-law.

Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner
Page 24

V.   12308
Elizabeth Elston
Ky.
Rejected

Let to A.C. Johnson  Dec 13, 1845
  "  ditto N. Lane feb 5 '46
to N. Lane, May 23, '46
Isaac N. Coffin July 20 1853
A D Johnson Mch 15 1854
3d Auditor, May 5/'54,
Page 25

29.032

No ans
Page 26

748
Kentucky
---------------------
Elizabeth Elston,
widow of Benjamin
who was a private
in the Revolution
---------------------
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate
of 20 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the ['4th of March 1843.
15 January 1845
--------------------
Certificate of Pension issued
the 9th day of May/56
and sent to
A. D. Johnson
Sligo
Henry County
Ky--
---------------------------
[Acts {'of March 3, 1843 and' crossed out]}
June 17, 1844.]

Recorded in Book A
Vol. 2, Page 180
Page 27

Mr Randall

Benjamin Elston, Act 1832 $20 per ann
Died 15 Jany 1845, Paid
F. Burt 
Auditor
Page 28

Pension Office.
May 5. 1854.

Sir,

I will be obliged if you will state to what time
the pension of Benjamin Ellston of Kentucky, who was a pensioner on the Roll of that State under the act of June 7th 1832, at the rate of $20 per annum, and whose papers are herewith enclosed, was last paid. -

Very Respectfully
L P Waldo
Commissioner,

F. Burt Esq.
Third Auditor
Page 29

Brief in the case of Elizabeth Elston, wid of John
Henry County and State of Kentucky
Act June 17, 1844, 2d Feb. 1848
-------------------------
Claim, (original, or for increase.)

Proof exhibited, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband Pension Act June 7, 1832
Record evidence of marriage prior to 1784,
---------------

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


Name and residence of Agent
A.D. Johnson
Sligo
Ky

Examining Clerk.
Ogden Niles
Page 30

Elizabeth Ellston
Ky sus 38


----------------
I.N. Coffin
Page 31

I desire to see the papers in the case of
Elizabeth Ellston widow of Benjamin of Kentucky under Act July 7th 1838.  My Power of
Attorney is on file- and a letter was addressed
to me acknowledging me as the Attorney by the
Pension Office dated July 20 1853.


Very Respectfully
Isaac N Coffin

Loren P Waldo Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington DC.
Page 32

Apl 27/53

Mayo

Isaac N Coffin
Present
Page 33

Washington April 27th 1853.

Sir:  
I herewith enclose Power of Attorney from Mrs Elizabeth Elston widow of Benjamin Elston of the County of Henry in the State of Kentucky whose application for pension under the Act
of July 7. 1838 is on file in your Office. As the
Joint Resolution of March 3d 1851 has removed
the objection in this case, which was that her husband was living on July 7 1838, I request that the case may be acted on immediately, and that the Certificate may be sent to me through 
the Post Office.

I am
With the Highest Respect
Your Obedt Servt
Isaac N Coffin

Honble. L. P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.

Post Script. As this lady, Mrs Elston, is now
in very advanced age, and as she has sworn to and subscribed the enclosed Declaration which is coupled with a Power of Attorney, I respectfully request of you that no delay of mere form, if there is any, should by delaying
action until she dies, prevent her from receiving the pension.
Respectfully,
I.N.C.
Page 34

Kentucky Aghey,
----------------
Elizabeth Elston, widow
of Benjamin, who was a
private New Jersey troops
--------------
Act of June 17, 1844, &
20 Feb. 1848.
-----------------
$20 per Annum
-----------------
Com. Jan 15. 1845, when
her husband died.
-----------------

A.D Johnson
Sligo
Henry Co
Ky.
Page 35

Office Sgt at arms
H Reps U.S. Decr 13th 1845

J L Edwards Comr. Pensinus

Sir,

Will you inform me if the papers of Elizabeth Elston of Henry County Kentucky wife of the late Ben- Elston have reached your office, and
when may I expect a decision in the case.  The papers were forwarded by A D. Johnson Esqr of Henry Cty Ky.

Could I have the privilege of withdrawing the papers of James Faulconer of Trimble Co Ky. with a view of amending the declaration and
furnishing additional proff in the case.

Respectfully
N. Lane

Hon J L Edwards
Page 36

State of North Carolina
Burke County  } SS   I J D Ferree Clerk of the court of pleas and Quarter Sessions for the
County of Burke and State aforesaid do hereby
certify that application and diligent search has
been made in my office for received evidence
of the date of the marriage of Benjamin Elston
to Elizabeth Long whom it is alledged was married in the aforesaid County in the year 1791 and that I have made diligent search amongst the old files of Marriage which is the only evidence in my office of marriages and have been unable to find said marriage Bo

In testimony whereof I have hereunto
Subscribed my name and affixed my
Seal office this 25 Feb 1846
J D Ferree Clerk
Page 37

New Castle
April 8

April 15, 1846
added to case
Elizabeth Elston & 
[illegible]
James Faulconer

from 10th

J.L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.
Page 38

Dr Sir
  I received a note from you on the case of Elizabeth Elston for a pension. I have made all the search I can for Record names + send you the best I can get, please grant the old lady her pension if it can come within the spirits of your Rules at the time she was married I think that you will find that there was Record of Marriage, persons wishing to marry, went before a Justice of the peace and was married and no license was Required and a Justice of the peace or a magistrate was clothed with power to marry them. The old Lady makes this statement to me
James Faulconer papers is filed. I think if you will admit any further evidence the old an would be more compliant this is a very poor thinking man and I do think very correct If he can amend his declaration please send me word as to the case of Mrs E Elston I think that is [illegible]
   Yours Respectfully
Hon J L Edwards}  A.D. Johnson  5th April 1746

please answer [illegible]
Page 39

J L Edwards

I send you the declaration of Elizabeth 
Easton please answer me as soon as
Possible direct New Castle, Ky
A D Johnson
Page 40

Commonwealth of Kentucky
Trimble County Court December Term 1844
It is ordered to be certified and recorded that
The proceedings in the matter of the application of Benjamin Elston of Trimble County [County] for a pension had before Robert B Gray, Esqr on the 25th day of April 1844 be and the same are now submitted to the court and are now sanctioned by the court and further that said proceedings are entitled to as full faith and credit as though they had been done in open court of Trimble County do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of said court in the matter of the application of Benjamin Elston for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have here unto set my hand and seal of the Trimble County Court office this 9th December 1844.

W. Samuel Esq.
Page 41

Benj Elston
Ken
See letter to N. Lane Jan. 20. 1845
N. Lane
Sergt at Arms
HR
Page 42

Office of Sgt. At Arms
Jan 20, 1843

Hon. Jas. L. Edwards
Sir I am in receipt of yours of the 14th instant informing me that the papers in the case of Ben Elston had been rec?  But was now lost and in answer to your suggestions of preparing another set of papers I would say Since that the evidence as given in the papers may from death and other causes be difficult to obtain a third time. Besides it would be subjecting the old gentleman to costs that he is ill off to bear and before I return your answer of the 14th then I will wait a few days hoping that the papers may be traced in the office and a uniform had them on.
Respectfully your
Obt. Servant
N. Lane
Hon. J L Edwards
Page 43

Office of Sgt at Arms
Jan 21st 1843

Hon Jas. L Edwards

Yours of the 20th inst is recd informing me "that of Benjamin Ellston will receive a pension for
six months service.  a Certificate will issue."
In answer I will state that you will please issue the certificate and send it to me, provided it does not debar him of the privilege of
prosecuting his case for a longer term of service

Very Respectfully
Your obt servt
N. Lane

Hon J.L. Edward
Page 44

REVOLUTIONARY WAR RECORDS SECTION.
3 -- 525
----------
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D. C., ____________, 19__

In reply to your request of ___________
received ___________ for a statement of the military history of Benjamin Elston, W. 9425 
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.
-----------------------------
[table follows with 5 columns; column headings are as follows:]
(1) DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT.
(2) LENGTH OF SERVICE.
(3) RANK.
(4) OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. {sub-headings:  a. CAPTAIN.
b. COLONEL.
(5) STATE.

[text below column headings as follows:]
(1) Oct 27 1777
(2) Short tours at Various times 1 yr. 3 mos.
in all
(3) Pvt.
(4) a. Lane.  b. Davis
(5) N.J.
[end of table]

Battles engaged in, __ Springfield ____
Residence of soldier at enlistment,  __ Elizabethborough N.J. ____
Date of application for pension, ___Apr. 25. 1844.  His claim was allowed. ______
Residence at date of application, ___ Trimble Co. Ky. _____
Age at date of application,  __ Elizabethborough, N.J.  Dec. 25. 1759. ____
Remarks: __ he married Nov. 18, 1786 or 1787 or 1788 in Burke Co. N. C. Elizabeth Long b. Nov. 9, 1770  he died in Trimble Co. Ky. Jan 5 or 15 1845 ['or 1846' crossed out] and she was allowed pension on an application Executed Oct 23 1845 While a resident of Trimble Co Ky.   children: _____

____ Family data in separate sheet _____

Respectfully,
Commissioner.

8 -- 2856
Page 45

M.B. H
Rev. War Section.

September 12, 1916.

Mrs. James Turner,
Box 262,
Eminence, Kentucky.

Madam;

In addition to the military history of Benjamin Elston, Wid. File No. 9425, Revolutionary War, you are furnished the following family data from the papers on file.

Children of Benjamin and Elizabeth Elston.

Sarah born April 23, 1790.
Mary    " March 3, 1792.
John    " February 26, 1795.
Anna    " June 24, 1797.
Martha " July 14, 1799.
Jonah   " October 14, 1800.
Jonathan " October 24, 1803.
Elizabeth  " March 7, 1806.
Carolina    " August 28, 1809.
Benjamin   " May 23, 1810.
Fernita     " April 15, 1813.

William B. Williams was the widow's son-in-law.

Very respectfully,
J. C. Tieman
Acting Commissioner.
Page 46

Mrs. R. J. Hancock
Sulphur
Kentucky

Madam:
   I have to advise you that in the papers of the Revolutionary War pension claim of Benjamin Elson, W. 9425, the name of said soldier's father does not appear.
   The Revolutionary War records of this bureau fail to afford any information in regard to David Elston.
    Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner
Page 47

Sulphur, Ly
Feb 29 1926

Mr. Winfield Scott
Commissioner of Pensions
Dear Sir
Will you please give me the revolutionary war record of Archibald Johnston who was a pensioner in Shelby Co. Kentucky in 1834. Think he was a Virginia soldier.
  Some time ago you sent me the record of Benjamin Elston (in the Rev.) and (1812 wars section) I find he is my great great uncle instead of great great grand father - did he say who his father was in his declaration for pensions? I am almost positive it was (over)
Page 48

David Elston whose wife was names Netay (or Freinita) have you any record of a David Elston of New Jersey who was in the Revolution?
   Hoping to hear from you soon
I am Very Truly 
Mrs. R. H. Hancock.
Sulphur, Ky
Page 49

Sulphur, Kentucky
Henry County. 
Sept. 26-1926

U.S. Commissioner of Pensions.
I want to join the Daughters of the American Revolution. I am sure that Benjamin Elston who fought in the Revolution is an ancestor of mine - and that he drew a pension
   He lived and I think died in Henry Co Kentucky.
   I wish you would please send me the Record you have in that office of his pension - I am trying to find out his birth + death who he married or any
Page 50

record you may have - also where he was born - I think he was born in Maryland but do not know town or county.
  Thanking you for any information I am
Very Truly,
Grade Elston Hancock
Sulphur
Kentucky

Henry co.

Rev [underlined]
Page 51

Rev Sec
K.T.G.
Emminence, Ky
Aug-29-1916

Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.

Dear Sir -
   Have you on file the Rev service of Thomas Turner of St Marys Co Md - and of Benjamin Elston of New Jersey?

Very respectfully -
Mrs James Turner
Emminence Ky
Box 262
Page 52

[two columns:]
[left hand column]

1916 Sept 12: Hist to Mrs. James Turner
____________________________________
1926 Nov. 18 hist to Grace E Hancock
________________________________________
1927 Apr. 14. Grace E. Hancock adv. name of sols father not on record  M[illeg]


[right hand column]:
Revy WIDOW, &c.
File No. 9425
Elizabeth Elston Wid. of Benjamin Elston Pvt. Rev. War
Act: Feby 27 [illeg]
Index:-Vol. A, Page 214
[Arrangement of 1870]
Page 53

ACT OF MARCH 3, 1855.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIMS.

PENSION OFFICE,
April 16" 1856
Sir:
The claim of Elizabeth Elston, for bounty land under the act of the 3d March 1855, No. 162.412 has been examined and suspended.
   The revolutionary service of Benjamin Elston, 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.
IT SHOULD BE OBSERVED, that the recorded action of this office, admitting a revolutionary soldier to the list of pensioners upon parole proof, is not considered "record evidence" within the meaning of the act aforesaid. In all applications for bounty land under this act, the papers of the soldiers, or their widows, who have applied for or received pensions, as well as the rolls in this office, are carefully examined for record evidence of service, before this circular is issued.
Respectfully, J. MINOT, Commissioner.
M B Pearce, Esq. Newcastle, Ky:
Page 54

Newlastle May 8th 1836

Sir

I return your answer in this case - and ask if her claim will be allowed under the act of 1856 Amendatory of the Act of March 1855 Admitting
Parole Testimony If so will the proof upon which he was admitted to the Pension List be sufficient-  If so you will please issue her Warrant- if not- will you please inform me what is required

Very Respfully
M. B. Pearce

J. Minot Washington D.C.
Page 55

POWER OF ATTORNEY.

STATE OF Kentucky }
COUNTY OF Henry } ss:  Be it known that before me, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid, duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared *Elizabeth Elston resident of Kentucky in the county of Henry in the State aforesaid, who being first duly sworn according to law, states that she is + the widow of Benj Elston
of the county of Henry and State of Kentucky
who was a revolutionary ++Soldier and that she is directly interested as a claimant in the pension for which application was heretofore made by said Benj. Elston and constitutes and appoints ISAAC N. COFFIN, of Washington, D. C., her true and lawful attorney, with irrevocable power to examine into, investigate, and establish the claim for said pension, and do all acts necessary thereto.

In witness whereof, she the said Elizabeth Elston has on this 27 day of Novm. 1852 hereunto signed her name, and affixed her seal.
                her
Elizabeth  X   Elston.   {SEAL}
               mark
Witness:
J. Chitton
John Antell

Signed, sealed, acknowledged, and sworn to before me, on this 27th day of Novm. 1852.
John Chitton J.P.
----------------------
STATE of Kentucky } 
COUNTY of Henry } to wit:
I, Edmd P. Thomas Clerk of the County court, of the county and State aforesaid, do hereby certify, That John Chitton before whom the foregoing power of attorney was acknowledged and affidavit made, was at the time of so doing a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn, and that his signature above written is genuine.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of said Court this 
27 day of Nov.- 1852.
Edmd P. Thomas Clerk
---------------------------
* Here, if the soldier or officer is living, insert his name; if he is dead, and the widow is living, insert her name; if both dead, insert one of the living children's names; if the children are all dead, and either of them survived the former unsuccessful applicant, insert the name of the administrator of that former applicant.

+Here, if the soldier or officer is living, insert his name again; if the widow is living, insert the words, “widow of," and the name of her husband; if both dead, insert the words, “son or daughter of," and the name of the former LAST unsuccessful applicant.

++Here insert the word "soldier," or "officer," whichever he was.

NOTE. -- When a female is the person who executes this paper, please put the letter s before the word he in every place where it
occurs.
Page 56

12308
Elizabeth Elston
widow of Benjamin No . 17, 1845
Ky
act 7 July 1838

Rejected husband died
5 Jany 1845
Page 57

State of Kentucky
Trimble County } Sct
The affidavit of William Elston he being good sound and disposing mind after first being duly sworn according to law deposeth and sayeth that he has been all his life time well acquainted will Elizabeth Long who married Benjamin Elston in Burke County the State of North Carolina
on the 18th day of November 1791 and from
the day of their marriage they have lived
together as man and wife untill the day of his death which was on the 5th day of January 1845 he further states that there was no record of their marriage they went before a magistrate and by the said Magistrate married and then returned home all of which he states he was an eye witness to subscribed and sworn to this 23rd day of Octr 1845.
William Elston

State of Kentucky
Trimble County  } Set
I John Abbott a Justice of the peace in & for the County and state aforesaid do hereby certify that the above affidavit was made subscribed and sworn to by the William Elston before me this day who is personally known to me.
given under my hand this 23 day of Oct
1845
John Abbott J.Pce
---
Page 58

No. 802
Additional Evidence
In the case of Elizabeth
Elston for a Pension


Confer with AD Johnson
allowing at Shigo Henry
County
Ky
------
Act 17 June 1844 &c,
Page 59

State of Kentucky
Henry County  Sct
On this 14th day of April 1854 personally appeared before me John G Taylor Judge of the Henry County Court in and for the County and State aforesaid Elizabeth Elston a resident of the County of Henry and State of Kentucky who being duly sworn according to Law declares that she is the widow of Benjamin Elston Decd who was a pensioner of the war of the Revolution at the rate of $20 per annum that she made application on the first day of March 1854 for a pension for her husbands service in said war that the only Record she would produce was the family Record which she sent with her declaration that the Record she sent of her family is the only Record now in existence that about fifteen years ago the names of her husband herself & her children was recorded in an old Bible that the house in which she & her husband lived in was an old and Leaky one that her old Bible was Laying in a place when the water leaked on it and damaged the old Bible that it all fell to pieces that her husband had the names she has sent you taken from the old Bible and written in a new one which she has had taken out and sent to the department and is now the only Record of her family in existence that the old Bible is all certainly Lost for many years and not a piece of the old bible is to be found she further states that she has often made search for the papers of the old bible
in hopes that she might find the old Record since her husbands death but is unable to find no part of whatever of the old bible that the Record she has sent is the only Record in existence, 
                 her  
Elizabeth   X  Elston
                mark
Test-
Jno G. Taylor
Page 60

Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written and I hereby certify that in my former certificate I stated that it was taken out of the Bible of Mrs Elizabeth Elston I still further certify that I took the record as sent out of the bible myself that it was the only Record she could produce that she stated that it was taken out of an old Bible which old Bibb had got wet and was entirely destroyed and the Record sent was the only record in existence I also certify that she is a Lady of impeachable character and Stands high as a woman of good morals and strictly to be believed in every thing she does or says that she is very old & infirm & unable to attend court

given under my hand and seal
the day & year above written
Jno G. Taylor J.H.C.C

State of Kentucky
Henry County Sct
I C.P. Thomas Clerk of the County Court for said
County do certify that Jno G. Taylor whose name appears to the foregoing certificate is and was at the time of Signing the same an acting Judge of Henry County Court duly commissioned and qualified as such and that full faith & credit is due to all his official acts and that his signature is genuine

In Testimony whereof
I have hereunto set my
hand & seal of said
Office at New Castle
This 24th day of April
1854
C. P. Thomas C
by R.A. Thomas DC
Page 61

State of Kentucky
Henry County ⎬ Sct
On this first day of March one thousand Eight Hundred and fifty four personally appeared before me Judge of the County Court in and for the County and State aforesaid Joseph Elston who being duly sworn according to Law being of good sound & deposing memory saith that
he has been well and personally acquainted with Benjamin Elston & Elizabeth Elston his wife and his widow, ever since the year 1790. In the year 1790 he went to live with them and continued so to live for a number of years and when he left the family he lived near them up to this time that Benjamin Elston died on the 15th
day of January 1845 not far from where he now
lives that his widow now resides about one mile
of him, & is still the widow of Benjamin Elston
Deced He further states that Benjamin Elston & Elizabeth Elston must have been married about three years before he went to Live with them that they have raised a family of children all of whom are very Respectable. He further states there is no doubt but what they was lawfully married at the time stated in her declaration for a pension. He also states that Benjamin Eston was a pensioner of the war of the Revolution at the rate of $20 per year. He further states that he has no interest in the matter.   
Joseph Elston  Seal

Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written I do certify that Joseph Elston is personally known to me is a resident
of Henry County and is a very credible person Jno G Taylor J.H.C.C
Page 62

Elizabeth Elston
Claim to pension
Please send my Certificate of Pension to to my attorney A D Johnson at Sligo Henry County Kentucky March 1st 1854  [signed] Elizabeth Elston
Page 63

State of Kentucky Henry County ss
On this first day of March one thousand Eight hundred and fifty Four Personally appeared before me John G Taylor Judge of the County Court in and for the County and state aforsaid Elizabeth Elston aged 80 years a Resident of the County of Henry and state of Kentucky who being duly sworn according to Law upon her oath makes the following Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the acts of Congress in July 1838 and June 17th 1844  She states that her maiden name was Elizabeth Long that she was born November the 9th 1770 and was married duly and Legally as she supposes and believes to Benjamin Elston in Burke County North Carolina on the 15th day of November 1788 by one Charles Wakfield a Justice of the peace She states that her husband served as a soldier in the war of the Revolution as he has often told and that he was placed on the Pension List of the united States under the act of June the 7th 1832 as she is also informed and believes at the Rate of $20 per annum  That her said Husband died on the 15th day of January 1845 Leaving her his widow and that she is still his widow and has not married since his death and she now claims a pension on account of his services  She further states that she has no documentary evidence of her marriage  That she has written to North Carolina but could not get any evidence whaever  She further states that she does not Know of any person now Living who was present at her marriage but she will give you the best evidence she can produce that she is the wife of Benjamin Elston  She further states that she sends you the Record of her Husbands Birth with her own Birth and also the births of her children which she has had by her husband Benjamin Elston Decd which is a true Copy from his Bible
Page 64

She further states that she is not able from Bodily infirmity to appear in court to make her declaration  But that the Judge of the Henry County Court has been so Kind as to come to her house and take this her declaration  She further states that she does not want one cent from the government which the Laws does not entitle her legally to  That she never Recvd any thing for her husbands services
Sworn to and subscribed this first day of March 1854  [signed] Elizabeth Elston Seal
State of Kentucky Henry County ss
I John G Taylor Judge of the Henry County Court in and for the County and state aforsaid do hereby certify that the above named Elizabeth Elston this day Personally appeared before me and made subscribed and was duly sworn to the forgoing declaration and I also certify that she is personally known to me and is the widow of Benjamin Elston Deceased and is a credible person and is unable on account of Bodily infirmity to attend court to make her declaration given under my hand this 1st day of March 1854  [signed] Jno G Taylor J.HCC [Judge Henry County Court]
State of Kentucky Henry County ss
I John G Taylor Judge of the Henry County Court do herby certify that the Record purporting to be the family Record of Benjamin Elston deceased & his wife Elizabeth Elston whose declaration appears above was taken out of their family Bible and Placed with the above declaration as evidence in her case for a pension and I further state that I have known Mrs Elizabeth Elston for 20 years or more and there is no Lady more creditable  [signed] Jno G Taylor J.H.C.C
Page 65

State of Kentucky Henry County ss
On this first day of March 1854 personally appeared before me Judge of the County Court in and for the County & State aforsaid Benjamin Elston & Nancy Antle both very Credible Persons after being duly sworn according to Law States that they was present in person and say Benjamin Elston while he was a corpse that he died on the 15th day of January 1845 & was buried on the next day that they was present at his burial  They also state that they are well acquainted with his wife Elizabeth Elston now his widow that she is still his widow and never has been married since his death  They also state that they have no interest in the case whatever [signatures] Benjamin Elston Seal  Nancy Elston Seal
State of Kentucky Henry County ss
I do certify that Benjamin Elston & Nancy Antle was this day sworn before me and subscribed to the above affidavit I also certify that they are personally known to me that they are very Credible persons and that they are Residents of said County the day & year above written [signed] Jno G Taylor JHCC [Judge Henry County Court]
State of Kentucky Henry County ss
On this 1st day of March 1854 personally appeared before me Judge of the Henry County Court [two words crossed out] John Antle who being duly sworn according to Law saith that he is well acquainted with Elizabeth Elston widow of Benjamin Elston Decd who was a pensioner of the war of the Revolution That he has been well
Page 66

acquainted with them for 54 years That the have lived together as man and wife up to the death of Benjamin Elston That there is 
no dispute that they was duly married That they raised a family of children That they was always considered as of good character and that it is generally Believed that they was duly married at the time Elizabeth Elston states in her declaration and that she is a woman of impeachable Character That she is the widow of Benjamin Elston decd and is still his widow & never have been married since his death That he has no Interest in the case whatever  [signed] Jno Antle Sr
Sworn to and subscribed before me the day & year above written and I hereby Certify that John Antle is personally known to me That he is a Resident of Henry County and that his statements and what he has subscribed to is entitled to full faith and Credit  [illegible] before signed  [signed] Jno G Taylor JHCC [Judge Henry County Court]
State of Kentucky Henry County ss
I C P Thomas clerk of the county court for said county do certify that Jno G Taylor whose name appears To The several Certificates is and was at the time of signing the same an acting Judge of the Henry county court duly commissioned and qualifyed and as such is entitled to full faith & credit & that his signature is genuine  In Testimony whereof I C P Thomas clerk of the county court hereto set my hand and affix the seal of said Office at Newcastle this 1st March 1854  [signed] C. P. Thomas C