Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 832, Randolph Biggs, Sea Service. Va.
Page 1

SERVICE
Sea Service.
Va.
Biggs, Randolph
          "Randall"
          Mary
NUMBER
R.832
Page 2

Declaration
of Mary Biggs In order to obtain the benefit of the Third section of the Act of congress of July the fourth, Eighteen hundred & thirty six
County of Campbell }
State of Kentucky     }
on this twenty second day of May one thousand Eight hundred and thirty Eight personally appeared before me Robert M. Carlisle a justice of the peace in and for the county Aforesaid Mary Biggs a resident of the county of Campbell and state of Kentucky Aged seventy seven years, who being first Sworn according to law doth  on her oath make the following Declaration In order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed July the fourth one thousand Eight Hundred and thirty six that she is old and unwell and unable from bodily infirmity to Appear in person in court and that she is the widow of the late Randolph Biggs who was a Regular [illegible] on the Virginia continential [sic] line during the war of the revolution under the command of Gen. George Washington and under officers not recollect. She well Recollects of hearing her Husband the aforesaid often state that he was in the Battel [sic] of Brandywine and at the Siege of Mud Island and she well recollects of his geting [sic] wounded in the left arm and she well Recollects of geting [sic] his discharge and herding [hearing] him say that he was Intitled to draw half pay on the account of his being wounded and from her great age and los [sic] of Memory she is at this great length of time unable to state the different officers he was under but do well know of her own personal Knowledge that he was engaged in the Regular servis [sic] During the war of the revolution and was in the service at least sevin [sic] years during which time he 
[notation made along lower left margin]
V3560.
Mary Biggs
Kentucky
Page 3

Taken prisoner and she well Recollects of hearing him state that he was put in a prison ship and heard him stat the dificulty [sic] in geting [sic] a chance to run away ad further states that she heard him say he had to swim and wade a considerable distance before he reacht [sic] the shore and further recollects of hearing him say that in making his escape that he was for nine days that he could get nothing to eat but sower [sour] grapes and sum [sic[ herbs and of his allmost [sic] starving to death my sufferings and privations ware [sic] great During his services in the war of the Revolution she further Declars [sic] that she was maried [sic] to the said Randolph Biggs in westmorland [sic] county state of virginia sometime in the year one thousand Seventeen hundred and Eighty. She further states that about seventeen Hundred adn Eigthy nine they had there [their] house Burnt and his discharge and all his papers was consued in said fier [fire] and she further states that her husband died the aforesaid Randolph Biggs Died on the sixteenth of June Eighteen hundred and fifteen in pendleton county Kentucky and that she has remained a widow ever since that period as will fully appear by Refference [sic] to the proof here to annexed given under my hand this twenty second day of May one thousand Eighteen Hundred and thirty Eight.
[signed] + her mark Mary Biggs
County of Campbell }
State of Ky                }
on this day personally appeared Before me Robert . Carlisle a justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid Mary Biggs a Citizen of Campbell County and state aforesaid and is unable by Reason of her great age and bodily infirmity to appear in court and she is well
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known to be a woman of Respectibility [sic] and Truth and Subscribed and made oath to the truth of the foregoing Declaration before me and I do Further Certify that from my long personal acquaintance with her and her Family that I do now Fully concur in the belief of the Truth of her Declaration given under my hand this twenty second day of May one thousand Eight hundred and thirty Eight
[signed] Robert M Carlisle JPCC
I Thomas Biggs state that I am the son of Randolph and Mary Biggs that I have Examined the Declaration made by the said Mary Biggs and from what I have often heard my Father and others state I believe it containes [sic] the truth I know that he departed this life at or near the time stated by her and that she has remained a widow ever since that period I also know that there [their] house and all of their papers was consumed I have often heard him tell of his sufferings in the army and from the best information that I can get I am fifty six on the nineteenth day of January last
[signed] Thomas Biggs
This day personally appeared before me Robert M. Carlisle a Justice of the peace in and for Campbell county the aforfesaid Thomas Biggs a citizen of Franklin county state of Indiana formly [sic] a citizen of Campbell county state of Kentucky who is well known to me to be a man of great piety respectibly [sic] and truth and Subscribed and made oath to the truth of the Foregoing Affidavit given from under my hand this twenty Second day of May one thousand Eight hundred and thirty Eight
[signed] Robert M. Carlisle JPCC
Page 5

We William B Northcutt & William Jones state that we Have examined the Declaration made by the said Mary Biggs and from our long acquaintance with her and her family and from what we have often heard her state we believe it contains the truth & we further state that we know that she is a widow now and has been for the last twenty years to our knowledge given from under our hands this Eighth day of June one thousand Eight Hundred and thirty Eight
[signed] Wm. B Northcutt
              William Jones
This day personaly [sic] appeared before me Robert M Carlisle a Justice of the peace in and for said county the aforesaid Wm. B. Northcutt & Wm. Jones citizens of Campbell County Kentucky who are well known to me to be men of Great piety Respectability and truth and subscribed and made oath to the truth of the foregoing Affidavit given from under my hand this Eighth day of June one thousand Eight hundred and thirty Eight
[signed] Robert M Carlisle JPCC
Commth of Ky.
Campbell County SS.
I John N Taliferro Clerk of the Court of Campbell County do certify that Robert M. Carlisle is and was at the time of subscribing the foregoing certificate acting Justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In Testimony of which I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County this 12th day of June 1838.
[signed] John N. Taliferro, Clk
              Campbell County Court
Page 6

The Application of
Nancy Payne
For Pension
as Daughter of Randall
Beggs dec'd
ELIPHALET EASTON,
Agent for Claimant,
Cincinnati, O.
Dumas & Lawyer. Printers, North-west corner Main & Fifth
Page 7

STATE OF OHIO,  }
Hamilton County,} On this 10th day of Novr in the year One Thousand Eight Hundred and fifty personally appeared  before me, the undersigned, Wm. B. Barry a Notary Public duly qualified to take affidavits for the county and State above mentioned, Mrs Nancy Payne Daughter of Randal [sic] Biggs who being duly sworn according to law declare that she the identical Nancy Payne daughter of Mary & Randal [sic] Biggs who was a [blank] in the company commanded by Captain [blank] in the [blank] Regiment of Revolutionary War commanded by Col. [blank] that he enlisted at Alexandria Va on or about the [blank] day of [blank] 18 for the term of During the War and was honorably discharged at [blank] on or about the [blank] day of [blank] 18 [blank] by reason of Peace being declared
This deponent's application is for the purpose of procuring from the United States the full amount of Pension due Her Mother for Her Fathers Services in the War of Revolution under the act of Congress
that is due for the above referred to services. Deponent depend much on the Records of the War Department and proof herewith sent, to support this claim. Her Father died 35 years ago the 27 of last year Her Mother died 3 years ago the 21 of June last in Covington Ky, about 7 years ago Her Mother made an Application through Wm D Coucey of Campbell County Ky for the Pension due Her as the Widow of the said Randal [sic] Biggs. the proof of Her Father service was sent by DeCoucey and is now on file in Pension office as deponent is informed & the proof is sufficient to establish her mothers claim she wishes to know.
The undersigned appoint ELIPHALET EASTOR, of the City of Cincinnati, Ohio, Agent to settle the above claim in the best way he can. All allowence [sic] and correspondence in reference to this APPLICATION are to be directed to the said EASTON, Cincinnati, Ohio, and no one else. All orders or receipts given by said Eliphalet Easton will and ought to be respected the same as tho given by the deponent in person.
[signed] + her mark Nancy Payne
(Attest.)
[signed] E Easton
              Ro[illegible] Hale
To: Com. of Pensions
Washington City, D.C.
Sworn to and subscribed before me, the day and year above written as witness my hand and Notarized Seal
[signed] Wm B Barry Notary Public
Page 8

STATE OF OHIO,  }
Hamilton County }
City of Cincinnati  } ss. On this [blank] day of [blank] in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty personally appeared before me, the undersigned, HENRY E. SPENCER, Mayer [sic] of the City of Cincinnati, and a Justice of the Peace for the city, county, and State above mentioned.
[blank] who being duly sworn according to law, and whose testimony worthy of full credit, declare that [blank] well acquainted with the within named [blank] and that he is now present and he did sign the within application for the use and purpose within stated, and the undersigned fully satisfied that the within statement is true. The undersigned [blank] disinterested in the result of the within application.
Sworn to and subscribed before me, the day and year above written as witness my hand and Corporate Seal of the City of Cincinnati, O.
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CINCINNATI, OHIO, 10th Nov
Commr of Pensions
Washington City, D. C.
Dear Sir
I herewith send you the application of Nancy Payne for Pension under the act of Congress
As soon as you can examine the claim, you will please advise me as the Agent of the claimant of the result, and send me whatever may be allowed on the annexed application
The affidavit of Mrs Payne will shew what she wishes to know. Notary's Public are now authorized to take depositions, and they have ow the same Powers in this state as in Indiana.
Yr Respf
[signed] E Easton
Page 10

Aug '98
Jno M Biggs
Louisville Ky
[opposite page]
Ex'r. Revy
No. [blank]
832
Ky
P.O. Mary Biggs
              Randolph
Service: Va troops
Enlisted: [blank]
Discharged: [blank]
Application filed: [blank]
Alleges: [blank]
Re-enlisted: [blank]
Attorney: [blank]
P.O. [blank]
Page 11

May 23 1846
Polly Biggs
July 4, 1836
Polly Bigg's case
Kentucky
Act 4 July 1836
See letter 23 May 1846
to W. DeCourcy.
Page 12

Mary Biggs
Kentucky
suspended
See let. 28th June 1838
Hon. R. M. Johnson
let: 15 Sept. 1838
S. C. Suggett
Let to Hon. Jn. Taliaferro
            April 11, 1840.
do. to Hon. H. Johnson 9 June 1840
832
Act 4 July 1836
[on separate piece of paper]
No 6741
Polly Biggs
widow of Randolph
Biggs, of Kentucky
Act 4 July 1836.
Susp'd. See letter May 23, 1846 to W. De Courcy - do. to same June 19, 1846
do. to Sec. War June 20. 1846 - do. to W: DeCourcy July 10, 1846.
Let Lewis C. Suggett 14th Aug 1849
Let to Easton [illegible] 11/51
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29 long. }
1 dep.    }                        KY
Petition
of Mary Polly [crossed out] Biggs, praying a pension 
Randolph
1846. June 2. Referred to the Committee on Pensions.
" " 17. Report adverse.
 " " 29. agreed to
Polly Biggs [written along left margin]
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To the senate and House of Representatives of the United States
The petition of Polly Biggs of Henton County state of Kentucky Respectfully showeth That she is the widdow [sic] of Randolph Biggs who served in the war of the Revolution as set forth in her declaration now on file in the Pension office to which she refers your honorable body; also to the proofs of such service taken before the proper authority. But owing to old age and loss of memory your petioner [sic] is unable to recollect the officers names under whom her husband served. your honorable body will easily account for this lack of memory when you are informed that your petioner [sic] is eighty six years of age that she is poor and ignorant & that her husband died more than thirty years since and before any pension laws were passed. Had her husband lived till the pension laws were passed then the interest would have caused her to enquire and her memory might have helped the deposit having no interest as she supposed and no one to refresh her memory since
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the death of her husband she has forgotten the names of the officers, without which she is informed a proper serch [sic]] cannot be made. Therefore after exammining [sic] the proofs she is able to get your honorable body shall be of the opinion that she is one of those for whom your Bounty was made provision she prays that she may be placed on the pension Roll and will ever pray.
[signed] Polly Bigg
       by Wm De Courcy
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District of Columbia
Washington County } to wit: - On this 8th day of May 1846, before the Subscriber, a Justice of the peace, in and for said County, personally appeared William DeCourcy of Cold Spring Campbell County, Kentucky, and being first duly sworn on the Holy Evangely of Almighty GOD, deposeth and saith, that sometime in October last, at the request of Polly Biggs who hath made the within declaration to which this is attached by a ribbon and seal, he went to the city of Indianapolis in Marion County, State of Indiana, about one hundred and twenty one miles distant  from home to retake the deposition of John Norton as taken before Esquire Stephens, on the 21st of January 1845. Also, on the 14th of August following in order to connect them with said Polly Biggs's declaration and to get said Norton to certify her identity as the person about whom he deposed on said 21st of January & 14th of August 1845. But on arriving in the neighborhood of said Nortons late residence he was informed that said Norton had removed to the state of Illinois, he could not ascertain the place of his present residence, and that he verily believes after strict inquiry of the Justice of the peace, before whom said Norton deposed, and others, said Norton did depose of and Concerning the within named Randolph and Polly Biggs who has made the foregoing declaration, and further that he is personally acquainted with said Polly Biggs, and has often been in the neighborhood since said Randolph's death for about twenty or thirty years last past, and to the best of his recollection, never did hear one individual dispute Biggs' having served as set forth by her. Although he often heard conversations on that subject, and that from all he has heard in the neighborhood where he
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lived and died, believes him to have been a Revolutionary Soldier as set forth in the within declaration.
[signed] Wm De Courcy
Sworn & Subscribed before me,
[signed] P. H. Morsell J. P.
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Commonwealth of Kentucky
Kenton County                      } sct
I Napoleon B Stephens Clerk of the county court for said county of Kenton do certify that John Byland and John Colvin Esqrs whose certificates are attached to the within declaration of Polly Biggs are now and were at the time of signing the same acting Justices of the peace within and for the said county of Kenton duly commissioned and qualified as required by Law, and that their signatures are genuine, and their certificates in due form of Law, and that full faith and credit are due and ought to be given to all their official acts as such. And further I do certify that from personal knowledge, and Long acquaintance with the Revn Wm Hume whose name is signed to one of the within depositions, that he is a Gentleman of sterling integrity, and unimpeachible [sic] veracity
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of my said County at Independence this 23rd day of April in the year 1846, and of the commonwealth the fifty fourth
[signed] N. B. Stephens Clk
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Marion County }
State of Indiana }
Be it remembered that personally before me John Stevens, a Justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid and being by me duly Sworn Deposeth and Says that he was well acquainted with Randolf Biggs, husband Polly Biggs that in or about the year 1784 or 5 said Randolf Biggs Lived with John Norton [illegible] in Loudon County Virginia near Middleburgh and afterwards he Lived in a small house near said Nortons which house caught on fire and burnt up with all the Effects and papers of said Biggs among which were Destroyed Said Randolf Biggs Discharge from the Army and the Said John Norton further Saith that he Recollects Reading a Descharge [sic] he also Recollects Reading a furlough given by George Johnson for a few weeks and he thinks that said Biggs first [illegible] enlisted with Said George Johnson in the first company of Regulars Raised in Alexandria Virginia Said Biggs as he understood Served through the war till after the takeing [sic] of Cornwallis also that said Biggs was wounded in the wrist by a Shot which he understood was got at the Battle of Brandywine.
[signed] John Norton
Sworn and Subscribed to before me this 21 Jany 1845.
[signed] Joshua Stevens Justice peace 
                                         Seal
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The State of Indiana Marion County, Sct.
I Robert B. Duncan Clerk of the Court of Marion County aforesaid, hereby certify that Joshua Stevens is a Magistrate as within and that the within Signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I hereunto affix my Seal of office and Subscribe my name, at Indianapolis, this 21st day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty five.
[signed] R.B. Duncan
Marion County. State of Indiana. Be it Remembered that on this 14th of august 1845 personally came John Norton the second time before me the said Joshua Stevens Justice of the peace as aforesaid and being by me Duly Sworn further Deposeth and Saith that the said Randolf [sic] Biggs and Polly Biggs his wife Lived together near him in Middleburgh for six or seven years, and afterwards came after him to Kentucky where said Biggs Died and that they were certainly man and wife that he has heard Biggs mention officers names but cant [sic]  Recolect [sic] them but always understood which he Recolects [sic] that Biggs Enlisted under George Johnson and said Norton always understood he Enlisted amongst the first Regulars who Enlisted and Served till after Cornwallis was taken that said Johnson was a captain but thinks he was in the army before the war closed and said Norton Says that from the conversation he has had with old Soldiers who served in the army with Biggs he Norton is confident Said Biggs did as good Service as any of them
[signed] John Norton
Sworn to and Subscribed to Before me
[signed] Joshua Stevens, Justice of the peace 
                                                                Seal
Indiana. I Joshua Stevens Justice of the peace in and for said County do hereby certify that the above affidavit John Norton is from information I have Received from those who have known him for more than twenty five years a Most Correct and Respectable Man and now is and ever has been a Creadable [sic] Man
Given under my hand and seal at Indianapolis this 14 august 1845
[signed] Joshua Stevens seal
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Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the third section of the act of Congress of the 4th July 1836.
State of Kentucky } ss.
Kenton County     }
On this 24th day of september 1845 personally appeared before me John Byland one of the justices of the peace in and for said County Polly Biggs a resident of said County and state aged eighty five years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 4th 1836. That she is the widow of Randolph Biggs, who was a private in the army of The Revolution and was wounded in his left arm which remained crooked untill [sic] his death being broke all to pieces and his wrist, she thinks he listed for five years or for during the war he served about half of his time when he was wounded, when Genl Washington discharged him. she thinks he was wounded at the Battle of Brandywine; also says he was aboard a ship for about six months during which time they had a battle and he was taken prisioner [sic] and she thinks he was taken to New york from which he got away. she has heard her husband say he would have been at the taking of Cornwallis but he was sick, at which time he was a substitute for Wm Coward; she also declares that she was married to the said Biggs about the year 1778 and prier [sic] to his leaving the service and that her aforesaid husband died 27th June 1815, and that she has not been married since and further that about 57 years since her said husband's house was burnt down, in which said husband's discharge from the army was burnt, and a furlough also. She thinks the furlough was from George Johnson Capt of the company in which he enlisted she says she has often seen these papers before they were burnt. He enlisted early in the war about the year 1775, at Alexandria state of Virginia. she has no documentary evidence of her marriage. she also declares he had a certificate of his being wounded which was also burnt at the time above or [illegible] she says
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the ship on which her said husband served sailed from Baltimore in the state of Maryland he served untill [sic] the war closed.
sworn to and subscribed } [signed] M BIGGS
this day and year above   }
written before me             }
[signed] John Byland J.P.K.C. [letters circled]
I further certify that I have long been acquainted with the above named Polly Biggs, and from personal knowledge know her to be a credible person she having lived in this neighborhood about 30 years. I further certify that the above named Polly Biggs is unable from old age and bodily infirmity to attend court with any degree of ease
State of Kentucky } ss.
Kenton County     } 
[signed] John Byland [name underlined] J.P.K.C.
On this 25th day of september 1845 personally appeared the Reverend Wm Hume Elder of the Baptist Church at Crew's Creek before me John Byland one of the justices of the peace in and for said County and after being qualified according to law, says he has been acquainted with the within named Polly Biggs between twenty and thirty years and from personal knowledge of her credibility he does believe the within declaration to be true and that she was the lawful wife of the said Biggs and further that she has been a member of the  methodist Church as he has been informed and believes some 30 or 40 years as far as he knows sworn to and subscribed before me this day and year above written.
[signed] William Hume
              John Byland [underlined] J.P.K.C.
I certify that the within named Nancy Taylor is a regular member of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the city of Covington Kentucky
[signed] Richard Deering pastor.
I Certify that the Rev. R. Deering is the minister in charge of the Coving. station
Mar. 6th 1846 [signed] John Colvin J.P. K.C.
Page 23

State of Kentucky } ss.
Kenton County     }
This day personally appeared before me John Colvin a justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid, Wm. Worthington of County and state aforesaid and after being duly sworn according to law deposeth and says that he was ninety five or six years of age. That he served in Revolutionary war six years while there he became acquainted with the within named Randolph Biggs knows he was swounded in the Battle of Brandywine, and thinks he belonged to Capt Johnson's Company, but says his memory is poor that he cannot be positive to what company he belonged. he was a short jolly lively man; I further certify that the above named William Worthington is a credible person 
[signed] X his mark Wm Worthington
Sworn to and subscribed on this 6th day of March 1846
[signed] John Colvin [underlined] J.P.K.C.
State of Kentucky } ss
Kenton County     }
On the 6th day of March 1846 personally appeared before me John Colvin one of the Justices of the peace for Kenton County Nancy Taylor of lawful age and being first duly sworn deposeth & saith that she has been acquainted with the within named Randolph Biggs and his wife Polly Biggs for some sixty years that is Mrs. Polly Biggs for that length of time and with the said Randolph Biggs until his death which took place about thirty years since and knows they lived together as man and wife until the death of the said Randolph and she firmly believes that they were married by the Rev. Thomas Smith at the time set forth in the within declaration as she has often heard Mrs. Biggs speak of her marriage during the time above mentioned She has often heard the said Randolph Biggs speak of his sufferings & his services through the whole of the Revolutionary war I know his
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Wrist was crooked and always heard him say that it was made so by a wound he received in the Revolutionary war and I think he represented that it was received at the battle of Brandywine I have heard him speak of serving on board a ship as well as on land. I well remember of hearing him say that he was taken prisoner by the Brittish [sic] from a ship and taken to some place from which he made his escape by swimming at great peril of his life
He represented that he continued in service in one capacity or other till the close of the war except when disabled by wounds or sickness She has often heard him tell what officers that he served under but it being about thirty years since his death she has forgotten their names And in those days there was no talk of their getting a pension then She knew if she did [illegible] charge her memory therewith.
She further states that she has been acquainted with John Norton who deposed before Squire Joshua Stevens a Justice of the peace for Marion County State of Indiana On the 21 of January and 14th of August 1845 and she knows him to be a Credible man having been acquainted with him for many years and knows he was well acquainted with the within named Randolph Biggs having lived in the same neighborhood with him for many years and she firmly believes that the said John Norton did depose & testify of the within named Randolph and Polly Biggs as set forth in said depositions before said Joshua Stephens as hereto attached by Seals She well remembers having heard said Norton ask said Biggs why he did not draw pay in consequence of his being wounded in the war and said Biggs reply in that he could no]t get it on account of his papers having been burnt
I certify that the above named Nancy Taylor is a credible person Sworn to & Subscribed before me this 6th day of March 1846.
[signed] X her mark Nancy Taylor
              John Colvin [double underline] J.P.K.C.
The State of the [illegible] ss. I Henry Morse a Notary Public in and for said County do hereby certify that John Conover personally appeared before me, and being duly sworn by me deposeth and saith that he is ninety five or six years of age. That he served in the Revolutionary war, and whilst there became acquainted with the within named Randolph Biggs and knows that he served in the Revolutionary war upwards of two years. Knows that he was in the battle of Brandywine, But owing to the great lapse of time and loss of memory he cannot now tell the names of his officers, nor whether a regular or of the Militia but believe he was a regular Soldier. That he never was acquainted with said Bolt's family, He having moved to the State of Kentucky after the Close of the war as he [illegible]. [signed] X his mark John Conover
I do further certify that from personal acquaintance with said Conover for more than thirty years, I believe him to be a man of veracity
Sworn to and subscribed before me this seventh day of March A.D. 1846.      }
[signed] Henry Morse Notary Public }
Page 25

This claim was decided after a careful Examination of all the papers No additional evidence is now produced, and the case cannot therefore, without a violation of the rules of the Department be reopened or reconsidered. I am prepared to say however that there is nothing in this additional argument which would change the decision heretofore given, founded, as that decision was, upon the evidence. W. L. Macey
War Dept July 9/46 Secy of War
Page 26

Mrs Polly Biggs declares she is the widow of Randolph Biggs who was a private in the war of the Revolution she was married to him, 1778, that his arm was crooked at the wrist, always heard him say was wounded in the battle of Brandywine for which Genl. Washington discharged him. She understood that he entered the army about 1775 for five years understood him that when his time was about half out he was wounded declares about 1778 married him after which he went into the army again knows he served about 6 months on board of a ship which sailed from Baltimore knows he was a serving as a substitute for Wm Coward when Cornwallis was taken. knows he had a discharge from the army. Knows he had a furlough also having often read them her husband told her the reason he was not in the battle he was sick, knows he had a certificate of being wounded, declares that about 57 years since her house was burnt with the above named papers, she thinks the furlough was from George Johnson. Thinks that he enlisted in Alexandria declares she is 85 years old. That her husband died 27 June 1815. That she has no documentary evidence of her marriage. If she swears the truth then her husband did serve in the war and was wounded and of course entitled to the reward she so hardly earned.
Let us see 1ct the justice before whom she swore Certifies from personal acquaintance for about 30 years in the same neighborhood that she is a credible person.
The Rev Humes living within about half mile declares on oath that after a personal acquaintance from 20 to 30 years, that he does believe [underlined] that what she has
Page 27

declared is the truth. He also declares that she is and has been a church member for 30 or 40 years as he has understood and believes this testimony is from men of her own neighborhood where she has lived ever since her husbands death, upwards of 30 years. The Clerk of the Court certifies under the seal of the County to the credit of the Rev Wm Hume also Col Tibbetts certifies to his exhalted [sic] character.
After his having served between two and three years and being discharged from the army on account of being wounded at Brandywine, she became acquainted with and married him in Westmoreland Co Virginia.
I have this day examined the history of the war and find that the Battle of Brandywine was fought 11th sep 1777. This exactly corresponds with her recollections of what he told her & That he enlisted for five years and when his time was about half out he was wounded and in 1778 she married him. again went into the army and she says served untill [sic] it closed. Norton says he was well acquainted with Biggs and his wife knows they lived with John Norton's son (i.e. his father) afterwards. to wit 1784 or 5 went to housekeeping in a nice house on said Norton's farm, where everything they had was burnt. This too corresponds with what she says. She says he served thro the war; Norton says he was living with his father at or about the close of the war for she says afterwards. i.e. 1784 he was living in a small house & thus shewing altho married in 1778 - 1783 found them living in Nortons family not yet keeping house. Norton whose deposition is herewith filed was about the same age of Biggs, and who lived with his father; it was almost a thing of course that Biggs would shew his discharge and furlough to him. Norton declares on oath he saw those papers and that they were burnt. he also declares he was wounded in the wrist and always understood it was done in the battle of Brandywine; He also declares that he saw old soldiers who served with him in the war, and from what he believes, Biggs did as good service as any of them; also always
Page 28

understood that he served till after Cornwallis was taken. This corresponds with her declaration that he was then serving as a substitute for Wm Coward who was her uncle. These factds and impressions related by Norton transferred and were made in or before 1784 or 5 when everything was fresh, when no pensions were depending his recollections is that he was among the first that enlisted. And that he was then in George Johnson's company and that Johnson died in the army. and was under the impression that he enlisted in Alexandria but of his own knowledge does not know where he enlisted the first time in 1775.
If Norton on oath tells the truth Biggs did serve in the war. The justice certifies his credibility also Mrs Taylor of Covington Ky says on oath that she has known him for many years and knows him a credible person. It must be born in mind that Norton has not lived within one hundred miles of Mrs Biggs for years and never saw her declaration and that at the time his deposition was taken before Squire Stephen's in Indianapolis Indiana. There was no friend of Mrs Biggs present to ask questions no person present that ever knew Mrs. Biggs. He was only written to by a friend of Mrs Biggs to go before a justice and testify to what he knowed [sic]. This was done by a young man who did not know that the deposition must be connected with the declaration. Hence his evidence was rejected for not conforming to the Rules laid down by the Pension Commissioner. When Mrs Biggs found that I was coming on to the City of Washington to get a Mail Contract she would not rest untill [sic] I agreed to go and retake Norton's deposition and bring it with me to Washington. But when I got there to my mortification he had moved to Illinois nor could I learn what part of Illinois he had gone to. Relative to which see my deposition herewith filed. The Hon Mr. Morehead of the senate and the Hon
Page 29

Mr. Farran of Cincinnati Ohio of the H.R.
also Col Tibbatts my own Representative were all good enough to testify to my credibility having known me many years. Mr. Conover of Cincinnati declares on oath he is 96 years old that while in the army he became acquainted with Biggs knew him upwards of two years in the army knows he was wounded in the Battle of Brandywine but from old age and loss of memory cannot now recollect his officers names or whether he belonged to the regulars or Militia. Judge Morse of Cincinnati testifies that from personal acquaintance of 30 years, Conover is a credible person whose statements can be relied on Honl Mr. Farron certifies to his signature his seal of office is also given.
Worthington testifies on oath that he also is 96 years of age and that he knew Biggs in the army knows that he was wounded in the Battle of Brandywine that he was also a thick jolly man and thinks he belonged to Johnson's Company. But owing to loss of memory he cannot tell how long he served nor the officers names, swears he was in the war six years. he is now on the pension Roll and has been for many years.
It has been 70 years since Biggs first enlisted and there is not the least probability that there is another human being now living that was acquainted with Biggs in the war he has been dead upwards of 30 years. Mrs. Taylor testifies on oath that she has known Biggs and wife near sixty years knows they lived together as man and wife all that time till Biggs' death. Knows his arm was crooked and always heard him say
Page 30

that it was made so by a bullet at the battle of Brandywine. That she has often heard Mrs Biggs speak of her marriage and that she believes they were lawfully married at the time set forth in her declaration She declares that she has often heard Biggs speak of his sufferings and services thro the whole of the Revolutionary war, says she has heard him speak of serving on ship as well as land. she says she well remembers to have heard him tell that he was taken prisoner by the Brittish [sic], and made his escape by Swimming at great peril of his life, says he always represented that he served thro the whole war in some way or other excepted on furlough sick or wounded. she says she has often heard him tell what officers he served under but it being upwards of 30 years since his death and not charging her memory with them and then there was no pension laws till after his death to excite attention she has forgotten. She well remembers to have heard Norton ask Biggs why he did not get a pension for his wound. he replyed [sic] that he could not get it on account of his papers being burnt. If Mrs Taylor tells the truth on oath Mrs Briggs entitled to a hard earned pension. The justice certifies to her credibility and in complyance [sic] to a regulation of the pension office the Rev. Deering certifies that she is a member of good standing in Church. Justice certifies that Deering is the Pastor in
Page 31

charge of the Covington Methodist Episcopal Church. Clerk certifies the justice's signature is genuine. Can it be possible that all these persons have purjered [sic] themselves? The credibility of the witnesses is established beyound [sic] doubt. In confirmation of her Declaration Norton positively says he saw and read his discharge from the army and furlough and that they were burnt. says positively he was wounded. says positively that he saw and conversed with old soldiers who served with Biggs in the war. Worthington is positive that he is 96 years old served six years positively knew Biggs in the army knows he was wounded at Brandywine. Positive he was a short jolly lived man. Conover is also 96 years old served in the army. Their age rendered altogether probable they served the very time Biggs service is from 1775 till Battle of Brandywine. Conover positively says he knew him in the army more than two years and knows he was wounded at Brandywine. This exactly corresponds with her recollections of what her husband told her. Viz he enlisted in 1775 served out half his time when wounded that he listed for five years. Conover knew him over two years which is about half of five years. Mrs Taylor knew him about 60 years in Virginia & Ky - knows his arm was crushed always heard him say was wounded at Brandywine. Always heard him speak of his services and sufferings during the whole war. Mr Edwards say Virginia rolls have been looked over and
Page 32

Biggs' name not found. Not one of the Witnesses pretends that they knew anything about where he enlisted, she thinks he enlisted in Alexandria Norton also got his impression, but does not pretend that he knows anything about it. It is not probable that he did enlist there for in this very year The enlistments commenced in the New England states. And the impression no doubt was made from his spending the winter of 1777 in Alexandria after he was wounded and the winter before he was married in 1778. I promised Mrs Biggs before I left home that I would do all I could. I have done so and will leave it to the Committee to set their seal for or against. Col Tibbatts suggested that perhaps I had better refer it till next year I only say she has been put off and has been trying about ten years, she is 86 years old; her service for which she claims was rendered some 70 years ago. And must she wait yet another year?
With considerations of high Respect-
Yours
[signed] Wm De Courcy
Page 33

Sfb[?]6.
Ky
add'p86
Mary Biggs,
Page 34

Boone county Kentucky
August the 28th 1838.
Sir
I hear in inclose [sic] to you the Affidavit of John Norton in Behalf of Mary Biggs which I think will be Sufficient to enable you to succeed in hear [sic] Behalf, you roat [wrote] to me Requesting that I should take Mary Biggs Declaration again and if She could not recollect the officers names whom he served under for her to state the fact which I am sertain [sic] that she did in the Declaration which was sent to you I have converst [sic] with Misses Biggs and she cant [sic] Recollect any thing further that is stated in the former Declaration I have Made all Inquiry that has Been in my power to Secure information Relitive [sic] to the case and this is all that I have Been able to obtain, [?].B, you and
at the war office spells the Name Briggs and there [sic] Name is Biggs Informe [sic] me wheather [sic] you think this will Be sufficient or not to enable you to succeed.
Your friend with Respect 
[signed] James Records
Lewis C Suggett }
Georgetown Ky August 30 1838
Dear Sir
The enclosed is in Support of the Claim of Mrs Mary Biggs widow of Randolf [sic] Biggs I am confidential [sic] that it will be Sufficient stablish [sic] her Claim to Pension
your very Respct-
[signed] Lewis C Suggett
Hon J L Edward
Page 35

June 17, 1846.
Rec d of Polly Biggs. 
[above written along left side of envelope]
Hon J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 36

Hon J L Edwards Comer of Pensions
Sir
Your letter of 23rd of May is before me rejecting the Claim of Polly Biggs for a pension "Unless she can conform strictly [underlined] to the Regulations [underlined] and produce such proof as they require," she cannot be placed on the pension list One of those Rules [underlined] to which you refer her requires that she must produce the best [underlined] proof [underlined] of the nature [underlined] of the case will admit as to the service of her husband This Rule is right and is adopted by every Court. The question is Has she produced as strong and as positive proof as any one could reasonably expect under the circumstances [underlined] of the case? 1st she is 86 years old. Cannot be expected of her to remember officers' names men whom she never saw? 2nd She has had no possible chance of refreshing her memory by reading her husband's certificate or rather furlough given him when his arm was broken in the battle of Brandywine or of reading his discharge for the [illegible] two years, she testifies on oath that is when they lived on Norton's farm in 1784 their house was burnt with everything it contained, she testifies that she had often read these two papers and that they were burnt there and He John Norton swears that he well remembers that their house was burnt with all its contents
Page 37

2 page
while living on his father's farm in Virginia in the year 1784; He also swears [underlined] that he had seen his discharge and Furlough before they were burnt He also swears that he [illegible] old soldiers who were in the war with Biggs and from conversations with them belives [sic] he done as good service as any of theirs. Norton tells the truth no one can doubt his serving in the Revolution. His credibility is certified. Mrs Taylor who also has known him for fifty years certifies to his credibility. He could have no possible motive that I can conceive of to swear falsely living about 130 ch[?] from Mrs Biggs - and not the least probability of ever seeing her again during life. By letter he is requested to go before a justice of the peace and testify what he knew. There was no friend of Mrs Biggs present. Under these circumstances no doubt he did tell the truth [underlined].
Mrs Taylor swears she has known said Randolph and Polly Biggs for more than fifty years. That they lived together as man and wife untill [sic] his death. and reared a large family of children. during this whole period she has often heard him tell of his services and sufferings in the Revolutionary War and never heard it disputed: When he was asked why he did not get a pension for his wound, he replyed [sic] because his discharge was burnt. If Mrs Taylor tells the truth Biggs did serve in the Revolution. What motive could he have had for teling [sic] a lie during his life? from the year 1784, had there been a pension depending he might have had a motive.
Page 38

3 page
But the first pension law was not past [sic] till three years after his death. The justice of the peace certifies Mrs Taylor is a credible person. The Rev Pastor of her church also swears she is a member of his church in good standing. His wrist was crooked Mrs Taylor swares [sic] that she always heard him say it was made so by a bullet in the battle of Brandywine. The justice also certifies that the minister is the pastor of the Church. Wm. Worthington a pensioner on your books and has been a pensioner for six[illegible] or 3 years swears that he knew him in the army. Knew him to be wounded in the battle of Brandywine, but he is 96 years old and by reason of old age he cannot now recollect the names of his officers.
The justice certifies to his credibility. An old man on the brink of the grave. What motive could induce him to swear falsely. His pension more than supports him. He is a sinsible [sic] old man but is poor. If he tells the truth Biggs was in the army. John Conover of Cincinnati swears he knew him for more than two years in the army knows he was a wounded in the battle of Brandywine. But he is also 96 years old and not expecting ever to be on; has forgotten officers names. If he tells the truth Biggs was in the Revolutionary war and of his credibility there can be no dispute.
Page 39

4 page
Judge Morse Certifies from a personal acquaintance of at least 30 years, That his statements can be relied on and that he is a credible person. The Honl Mr Farron member of Congress has certified to Judge Morses seal and signature being genuine. The Reverend Hume who resides near Mrs Biggs was called on in complyance [sic] with a Rule [underlined] of the pension office. He swears to her credibility and that her statements are worthy of credit from personal acquaintance of many years also testifies she is a church member in good standing for many years. The justice and Clerk of the Court certified to the exalted character [of] both of them not only so. The Hon Col Tibbatts congressman from that district certifies from personal knowledge. in the Regulations of 2nd of June 1835, 6th Rule [underlined] Reads as follows In the investigation of all those facts the accounting officer will require the best proof [both words underlined] The nature [underlined] of the case [underlined] will admit of in the possession of the party of applying; and of not. The want of such proof must be satisfactorily accounted for; in which case only secondary evidence [both words underlined] will be admissible. Calhoun when secretary in Brown's case page 114 settles the principle that the Rules and even the best proof may be dispensed with if Sufficient [underlined] reasons are given why the first class of evidence cannot be given. In order to shew reasons, I have [illegible] win my deposition
Page 40

5 Page
Mr Tibbatts and the honorable Farran have testified to my credibility. I also refer to senator Morehead and Gen McCalla 2nd Auditor who have both known me for many years. 8th Rule provides [underlined] for cases where no documentary evidence exits. The Claimant must produce one Witness, and that traditionary evidence will be deemed usefull [sic] in such cases. Not only one but she has furnished two who swear positively to his service. She proves by Norton that in 1784 or 85 only one or two years after his coming out of the war he heard old soldiers talk of his services. he swears he read his discharge. Traditionary evidence is clear to within two years of the Revolution; Had her husband lived untill [sic] the pension law was passed, then she would have had some interest in remembering what her husband said about his service and officers but he died more than 30 years ago, she was a poor shoemaker's wife and was much more interested in the price which he got for making a pair of shoes than in anything he would say about officers of the army. People remember best what interests them most I respectfully ask in the words of the Rule [underlined several times] if she has not produced the best evidence [both words underlined] that the circumstances [underlined] of the case will admit?
Page 41

6th page
as to the service of her husband? 2nd Rule says the legality of the marriage may be ascertained by the certificate of the clergyman who married them in wedlock. This cannot be had. The Rev Thos Smith who married them is long since dead. the Rule says "As the testimony of Respectable persons who had knowledge of the fact. she has given me the names of Joseph Bingham John Hutchison and Rhoda Bingham who were young and were at the Weding [sic] - but on inquiry I find they have also long since gone to that "Bourne [sp?] from which no traveller [sic] returns. Is not then her oath the best evidence the circumstance of the case will admit. she swears that they were published and of course no record was kept. If her oath under these circumstances is to have no weight, why does the law require her to make her declaration on oath? The Officer testifies under his oath of office to her good character; the minister after living by her some 25 years testifies to her piety and good standing in the church both from personal knowledge. After a whole life spent in piety and good works; after all; Is she not to be believed on oath? Her statements to be thrown into the common sink with the profligate and purgered [sic]. This is hard [underlined] I know that the law of the 4th of July 1836 declares that the secretary of war shall act if such forms [underlined] of evidence in applications under this act as the President shall prescribe. The forms or manner has nothing to do with the thing
Page 42

7 page
proved. Altho [sic] the form thus adopted becomes part of the law, yet they do not repeal any part of the law. The law of 7th June 1832 has this section "And no foreign officer shall be inabled [sic] to said pay, nor shall any officer noncommissioned  officer, musician, or private receive the same, untill [sic] he furnish the said Secretary [underlined] Satisfactory [underlined evidence [underlined] that he is entitled to the same in Conformity [underlined] to this Act [underlined]. In this act there is no permission for forms This is an original act, Congress well knew that in the execution of this law every possible forms of evidence would be given; Therefore in their wisdom, they only have laid down only one Rule with which all must comply Viz satisfactory evidence [both words underlined]. This is the sole Rule for services in the Revolutionary war. All laws since this refers to this for the service and directs forms. Ultimately no one can be placed on the pension list unless they produce satisfactory evidence [both words underlined]. As the secretary is the final judge; Under form of Declaration for 7th June 1832 page 127 It is said "To require" from the applicants positive proof of service from a contemporary survivor would after the loss of so many years; be to deprive many of them of the benefit of the law. If this was said ten years ago, [illegible] much more applicable now
Page 43

8 page
when the youngest of the whole band must be over 83 years old. In your letter before me you say you enclose the regulations for guidance. To which I only says she is 86 years old and has been trying to comply with your instructions or rather Regulations for eight or ten years. she has complyed [sic] with some of them. It is impossible to comply with.
As I draft it I do not believe there is a living person on earth that will make another offer for the old lady, Therefore I feel it my duty I to ask a final decission [sic]. I have done my duty. I promised her I would do what I could. I have done so; the only thing that I can do is to ask a reconsideration; The Attorney Generals often on a reconsideration of a case change their decisions. Secretaries do the same often the Supreme Court of the United upon a review sharing their opinions, I do not understand that you have decided only one point, and that is that she has not complyed [sic] with all the forms of evidence. The response is she never can. The only questions to be settled is, Under the law [underlined] and by an exhibition of the whole of the evidence such as it is; has she succeeded in satisfying the secretary of war that her husband did serve in the war - or in other words satisfying you [underlined] who, is his Representatives if this is done the law is fulfilled and she is entitled to expressions [sp?] 
With due Respect remain
Yours
[signed] Wm De Courcy
Page 44

Mary Biggs
July 10 -1840
Report versus, No 664
Feby 10, 1840
Com: Revy Pensions
Mr W. O. Butler
Page 45

26. Congress.
1st Session
Congress of the United States
In the House of Representatives
February 10, 1840
On motion of Mr W. O. Butler
Resolved, That the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions be instructed to enquire into the propriety of granting pension to Mrs Mary Biggs, widow of Randolph Biggs, whose declaration and papers are now on file in the Office of the Commissioner of Pensions.
Attest:
[signed] H. A. Gadner
                      Clerk
Page 46

Pension Office
June 19, 1846.
Sir,
I have, at your request, again taken up the papers in the case of Mrs. Polly Briggs, [sic] widow of Randolph Briggs, decd. It is not in my power to admit this claim upon the proof which you have exhibited. It would afford me great pleasure to grant a pension in this case, if I could do so consistently with a faithful performance of my duty.
I am respectfully,
Your obt. Svt.
[signed] J. L. Edwards
William deCourcy, Esq.
of Kentucky.
Present.
Page 47

Cave Spring Scott Co [illegible] May 16
Dear Sir
In looking over my old letters I find the enclosed from Isaac D Sanders Esqr in relation to the Claim of Mrs Mary Biggs the widow of the Lat[e] Randolph Biggs who applied for the benefit of the act of Congress passed July 4, 1836 you will see that he wrote the name Briges [double underline] I am inclined think this is a Just Claim and there is a mean difference in writing names and as the Randoph is a very uncommon name for Christian name I should think any name like his ought to be received upon such evidence as is Presented in the Papers do have Compation [sic] upon this poor widow and extend to her all Aid and Charity the law will Permit I hope to secure some Pension Certificates soon in the Cases I left with you for your Deliberation and Decision
In the case of Mrs Brigs [sic] if it can not be allowed please to have the kindness to inform me as soon as convient [sic] what is required in her Case so that the requisite evidence may be Produced if shuld [sic] be such as it is Posible [sic] to be obtained
I am yours with great Respect
[signed] Lewis C Suggett
Hon James L Edwards
Commission of Pensions
Washington DC
Page 48

Jn ab. June 28.
Ken.
Col J. L. Edwards
Hon R M Johnson
Hse Rep. U.S.
Page 49

Please give me ansr to the within case of Mary Biggs
yours
Rh M Johnson
27 June [illegible]
Page 50

Pension Office,
June 9, 1846.
Sir
The petition of Mary Biggs, of Kentucky, widow of Randolph Biggs, is herewith returned.
In her declaration she sets forth that her husband served seven years in the Virginia line; but upon referring to the list of soldiers of that line, no such name appears. She has not given the name of one officer under whom he served. We therefore do not know where to look for any evidence of his service. She alleges that she was married in Westmoreland, Virginia. If so, the Clerk of that County will be able to certify whether her marriage took place at the time alleged, or not. Marriage licenses issued in that County will be found on record there. We cannot allow the claim upon the proof exhibited.
I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your obt. Servt.
[signed] J. L. Edwards 
Hon. Henry Johnson
Chairman of the
Committee on Pensions
Senate U. States
Page 51

Washington City
11th June '46
Re'd of J. L. Edwards Comr of Pension. The pension papers of Polly Biggs of Kenton County Ky
[signed] Wm De Courcy
Page 52

Union Ky Dec. 10                    1Qu
Mr Lewis C Suggett Esqr
Log Lick P.O.
Scott County
[notation upside down at top of paper]
act July 4
Page 53

Rec'd [sp?] woods Boone County
Dear Sir
I have writen [sic] to Genl Butler respecting Mrs. Briges [sic] pension and want you to use your Influence to procure it for her she wants it very much her situation is truly deplorable for she can't work and is very poor and in debt for articals [sic] to subsist upon. I think that government will allow her the agane [?], if thay [sic] do not she will have to go on the County and god forbid That an old soldier's wif [sic] will have to want to such means I wish in you [illegible] Communicate to me at proper times Conserning [sic] it for old lady is a neighbor of mine and I feal [sic] an intrist [sic] her behalf, I am your obediant [sic] servent [sic]
Decr 6th 1841
[signed] Isaac D Sanders
L. C. Suggett Esqr
Page 54

Nancy Payne
formerly Nancy Biggs
child of Randall &
Mary Biggs--
Power of attorney
to Edwards & Smith
Anverson [sp?]
we desire to see papers
in this case either the Mother
or Child. Suppored [sp?]
to be Kentucky case
15 July '52 ES
Notary Public
Tenn: Ham Co [illegible]
Page 55

Know all men by these presents that I Nancy Payne formerly Nancy Biggs do hereby constitute and appoint Misses [Misters] Edwards & Smith of Washington City D.C. my true and lawful attornies [sic] for me and use my name to prosecute my claim against the Government for Bounty Land & Pension which may and is due me as one of the heirs of Law of Randall Biggs, my father and Mary Biggs mother. For the services of my said Father in the army of the Revolution.
I hereby authorizing my said attornies [sic] to name any & all warrant or money from the propper [sic] officials of the United States which is due as Bounty or Pension [illegible] or otherwise. and [illegible] in [illegible] for the same. hereby confer all the acts of my said Attornies [sic] in the pensions and I hereby revoke all power of attorney heretofore given to any one for the purpose above stated.
Witness my hand & seal this 8th day of July 1842.
[signed] X her mark Nancy Payne [circle around the word Seal]
Signed [illegible] and as witness of }
[signed] R. H. Stout                           }
             John A. Wiseman                 }
Page 56

State of Ohio       }
Hamilton County } SS.
Before me a Notary Public [illegible] & for the County & State aforesaid personally appeared Nancy Payne who signed the foregoing Power of attorney by her mark and acknowledged the same to be her act and [next 3 words illegible] & proposes [next 2 words illegible]
In Testimony [illegible] I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this Eighth day of July A.D. 1852
[signed] John A. Wiseman
               Notary Public
               Cin. Ham. Co: Ohio
Page 57

I John Norton of Grant county state of Kentucky do state that I got acquainted with Randolph Biggs and Mary Biggs in the state of Virginia Loudon county in the year of our lord seventeen Hundred and Eighty four and do well Recollect that they lived together as  man and wife at that time and they had one child which I supposed from his son that he was Born some time in the year of Eighty two and do well Recollect of seeing his papers and of seeing of two discharges one was from the land service and as well as I Recollect the other was from the navy and further Recollect of seeing one or more furlows [sic] and further Recollects of hearing him state often that he was in the service of the Revolution war seven years and do well Recollect of his having been wounded in one of his arms and do further state that I have often heard him state that he was taken prisoner twist [twice] and of the great dificulty [sic] he had in making his ascape [sic] and do further state that he the said Randolph Bigg got his house and all his house Hold property Burnt and papers which I think took place some time about Eighty seven but I will not be sirtain [sic] as to the date and from what I have often heard him state I do believe he served the time he stated in the Revolution war. I further state that he said Randolph Biggs and Mary Biggs Mooved [sic] to pendleton county state of Kentucky some time in year one thousand Eight hundred and fifteen or sixteen whear [sic] he shortly died and do further state that mary Biggs now Resides in Campbell County State of Kentucky and do well no [know] that she is a widow now and has remained a widow every sence [sic] the death of the of the aforesaid Randolph Biggs and do further state that the aforesaid Randolph Biggs and Mary Bigs was Respectable and Truthful given under my hand  This twentyith [sic] day of august in the year one thousand Eight Hundred and thirty Eight
[signed] John Norton
Page 58

County of Grant   }
State of Kentucky } Sct.
This Day personally appeared Before the undersigned a justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid John Norton a citizen of the aforesaid county who is well known to me to be a man of Respectably [sic] and truth and Subscribed and made oath to the truth of the foregoing Affidavit given from under my [hand] this twentieth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty Eight
[signed] N. Henderson J.P.GC
State of Kentuck  }
Grant County       }  Sct.
I Wm Smith Deputy for H. B. Smith Clerk to the Court for the County aforesaid do certify that N. Henderson whose name is signed to the foregoing certificate is and was at the time of signing the Same an acting Justice of the peace duly commissioned and qualified as the Law directs & that his acts as such is entitled to full faith and credit as well in Courts of Record as elsewhere
In Witness Whereof I have hereto affixed the seal of office of said County and Subscribed my name this 27th day of August 1838
[signed] Wm Smith DC
              for H. B. Smith Clk
Page 59

Marion County }
State of Indiana}
I Joshua Stevens a Justice of the peace in and for Said County do Certify that on 21st January 1845 Personally came John Norton Before me and made the Deposition which is Subscribed with My name of said Date on that occasion he told me he had Received a Letter Requesting him to go before some Justice and Depose to what he can Recal [sic] of Randolf [sic] Biggs and afterwards on 14th august he came and made a further Deposition Said Norton is an old man but of sound mind & I believe of good Reputation for truth and veracity now it Seems that said Deposition Should Refer to a Certain Declaration which Declaration has this Day Been Sent on here from Kentucky But it Seems said Norton has Removed with his son to Illinois having Read the Declaration made by Polly Biggs [2 words illegible] & Believe Norton intended Did Depose of and causing [sp?] the same Randolf [sic] Biggs as Sett [sic] forth in the Declaration of Polly Biggs given under my hand and seal at Indianapolis the 23 of [illegible] 1845
[signed] Joshua Stevens           
              Seal [circled]
Page 60

This is to certify that I am personally acquainted with Henry Morse of Cincinnati, Ohio, and have been for many years. I have examined the signature of Henry Morse to the affidavit of John Conover attached to the application of Polly Biggs for a pension, and am satisfied that it is genuine and is the signature of Henry Morse of Cincinnati, who is a Notary Public in that city, in my knowledge. I have seen said Morse sign his name frequently while he was one of the associate Judges of the county of Hamilton, Ohio, and since he was commissioned as a Notary, and have no hesitation in vouching for the genuineness of his signature to the said affidavit, or for his being the officer he has therein designated himself to be.
Washington  May 6, 1846
[signed] Jas. T. Faran
I am also acquainted personally and have been for many years with Mr. De Coursey now in this city and who has charge of the application of said Polly Biggs, and take pleasure in saying that as a man and Citizen he ranks high in the community in which he resides. Full confidence may be placed in his statements, and I respectfully solicit for him the attention that his high standing at home merits.
[signed] Jas. T. Faran
Washington May 6. 1846.
I am personally well acquainted with the above mentioned Wm Delancy. He is a constituent of mine, and resides in an adjacent county to me. I concur in the above certificate of Mr Faran that full confidence may [illegible] in his statements on oath or otherwise.
[signed] J. T. Morehead
7 May 1846.
Page 61

3560
Mary Biggs
Ky
act 4 July '36
Page 62

Georgetown Scott Co Ky Jun 19th 1838
Dear Sir
The Elclosed [sic] papers in the Case of Mrs Biggs is Just Received I presume that the Records will Furnish evidence of the Service of her husband Randolph Biggs 
The Hopes for a Favourable [sic] Decission [sic] in her Case
your very Respectfully
[signed] Lewis C Suggett
Hon James L Edwards
Page 63

Louisville Ky
May 30th 98 
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C. -
Dear Sir:
My grandfather Randall Biggs fought in the revolutionary war and was shot in the leg from the effects of which wound he finally died while on the way from Virginia to this day and was burried [sic] near where williamstown now is below Lexington Ky.
No pension was ever applied for and none has ever been received. There are yet a few witnesses to this fact whose evidence can be hand. Will you kindly advise me in regard to an examination of the records, how
Page 64

to proceed, and if the assistance of an attorney is needed please mention Some reliable person there, and I will correspond with Same.
Randall Biggs was my grandfather, and my own Father and Mother are dead but some witness well known to them are yet alive.
Yours Respfy
[signed] John M. Biggs.
Louisville Ky
750 Fifth St
[round mailroom stamp at bottom of letter]
U.S. Pension Office Jun 2 1898
Page 65

[in upper left corner]
This Bureau can furnish the military records of only such Revolutionary soldiers as were pensioned or whose widows were pensioned for their services.
Such of the original muster and payrolls of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 as are now in the possession of the Government are on file in the Record and Pension Office, War Department. Original rolls and other records pertaining to service in the Revolutionary War may also be found on file in the archives of many of the original States.
O. W. & N. Div.
Revolutionary.
[notation in upper right]
L. W. B.
R. 832
[The following is the letter on printed stationery]
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.,
August 1st, 1898.
Sir:-
Replying to your recent communication you are advised there is no law granting pension to the daughters or other descendants of soldiers of the Revolution. The daughters of Revolutionary soldiers who are now drawing pensions were placed on the pension roll by special acts of Congress.
Very respectfully,
[blank] Commissioner.
Mr. John M. Biggs,
Louisville, Ky.
750 Fifth St.
Page 66

The National Archives
Form VAN-51
12-5-41
Division of Veterans' Administration Archives
BOUNTY LAND WARRANT RECORD CARD*
NAME Biggs, Richard
GRADE Private
LINE Pennsylvania
WARRANT NUMBER 9006
ACREAGE 100
ISSUED July 12, 1790 to -- not shown --
              note: "on file, not delivered."
----
*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 privates 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.