Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 10,639, Benjamin Coit, Conn. Conn. Sea Service
Page 1

(8-1776)
Service                                           Number
Conn        Coit, Benjamin             W.10.639
Conn Sea Service      Sarah   B.L.Wt.26047-160-55
Page 2

Connecti [illegible] 30,751
Benjamin Coit
of N. London Co. in the State of Connecticut
who was a Private in the company commanded by Captain Leffingwell of the [blank] commanded
by [blank] in the Conn. militia 
line for sixteen months.
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut at the rate of 53 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831
Certificate of Pension issued the 6th day of July 1836 and sent to Hon. A.T. Judson, Canterbury
Swears to the 4th of March'36. 
Semi-an. allowance ending. 4 Sept' 36
260.65
   26.66
$293.31
{Revolutionary Claim, Act June [7,1832-crossed out] 28, 1836
Recorded by D. Brown [signature]  Clerk
Book E.2. Vol.3 Page 8
Page 3

Connecticut
Sarah Coit
widow of
Benjamin
who served in the Revolute [illegible]
war,
as a Seaman
On Schooner Spy
State vessel -Conn. 
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate
of 60
Dollars
Cents per annum, to commence
on the 4th day of March, 1848
Certificate of Pension issued
the 6th day of Apl.1863
and sent to
G.C. Ames
prest.
Died Sept 3, 1855
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners
February 2, 1848, Page 276 [illiegible]
Page 4

Set Claimant. May 5/56
166.206 Mar 3
              June11/33
Sarah Coit widow of Benjamin Coit Seaman
Conn.
Rev. War
Conn [illegible] 48-6067
Wil [illegible] May,14/56
[illegible]
W.P. Eaton,
Norwich, Ct.
Vol. E2-22
Page 5

State of Connecticut County of New London City of Norwich. sp. On this 14th day of July 1832. Personally appeared before the City Court of the City of Norwich in said New London Conn, now sitting being a court of record having a clerk 
[illegible] -Benjamin Coit of said City of Norwich County of New London State of Connecticut aged Seventy three years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by act of Congress passed June 7,1832. That in the summer of the year 1776 the regiment of Col. Zabdiel Rogers
of   Norwich with other militia were on directed to the Byram River the Eastern line of the State of New York. I was at that time just enrolled in the militia and belonged to Capt. Benajah Leffingwell's company-we went by water to Milford and [illegible]-we were marched thro the  State of Connecticut by land to the [illegible] at mouth of Byram River where was a quantity of stores belonging to the army stationed at White Plains under command of Gen. Washington. I remained with the company till the regiment was discharged and ordered home. Cannot recollect the time I was there but to the best of my recollection we were in the service nearly three months-I was the youngest in the company and the others are nearly all dead.
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There are [only two -crossed out] no persons being within my knowledge which belonged to our company. [and they are very old- crossed out]
That sometime in the spring of 1778 I engaged with Capt Robert Niles commission of the Schooner Spy, a State vessel, ordered to go to France with public dispatches for Doctr Franklin's minister at France-I understand it to be the ratification of the Treaty with France- we sailed from Stonington the first [illegible] of June of that year arrived at Brest Harbour in 22 days. Our Captain went immediately with dispatches to Paris- he informed us they were delivered in 24 days from our departure from Stonington - to the great satisfaction of Doctr Franklin -we sailed from Brest to Nants -remained three waiting, as I understood for dispatches-after receiving them and taking in some goods, sailed for home about the month of September of that year-after being out 2 or 3 days, we were captured by the ship Baesly Capt Gatier a Privateer from Jersey(Island) where we arrived a few days after-The crew of the Spy was all put on board a frigate in the
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habour, except Capt Niles +[and] myself, who were detained to condemn the vessel. We remained there some time waiting for an opportunity to get to France, but none offered. the Capt offered to take us out in his vessel +[and] put us on board a neutral vessel bound to France, +[and] he did put us on board a vessel from Bremen bound to Bordeaux, where we arrived some time in October or November [after-crossed out]After some time we took passage in a Schooner bound to & belonging to Baltimore-After being out 3 days we were again taken +[and] we arrived back to Jersey Island. I remained there until an opportunity offered to get away in a Swedish vessel bound to Spain where we arrived after a tedious passage of sixty days -at Vigo- where we found a privateer ship belonging to Newburyport , Capt Newman-which had made his cruise +[and]was bound home-I went on board her +[and]arrived in Newburyport in the latter part of the summer of that year. The whole time from my engaging with Capt Niles of the Spy till I arrived home
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from my best recollection was about fifteen months. I have no means of ascertaining precisely the time as I have no memorandum or date concerning the business, nor is there to my knowledge- one of said Spy's crew living except myself. [line]
But that we were twice prisoners to our enemy will not be forgotten by [illegible] Capt. Robert Niles for his services int the Spy under the law of March 1818 was enrolled previous to his death on the pension list of the Connecticut agency +[and]my deposition to support his claim for a pension was ^ as I easily believe Sept for Washington this Pension office [illegible-crossed out] with his application . [illegible] From my best recollection +[and] belief I was in the Service ing" whole at least eighteen months {that Hon James Lannon Mayor of this city is acquainted with [illegible-crossed out] me +[and] can testify to my character for verasity +[and] his belief of my service in the revolution} That he hereby relinquishes every claim whole[illegible] to a pension or annuity except the present +[and] declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any State [illegible-crossed out]In open court, sworn to +[and] subscribed the day +[and] year aforsaid-  Benja'n Coit{signature]    attest. Alex Lathrop [signature] clerk
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Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of July 7th_1838 entitled "an act granting half pay and pensione to certain widows. State of Connecticut fs. New London County. On this 16th _day of March A.D. 1843. personally appeared before the court of Probate for the District of Norwich in said county and state Mrs. Sarah Coit, a resident of Norwich in the said county of New London aged seventy eight 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 of the act of Congress, passed July 7,1838 entitled. " An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows." That she is the widow of Benjamin Coit, dec'. who was a pensioner of the United States at the time of his death. But as she does not know the length of time he served his country, nor the nature of his service precisely- she would respectfully refer the War Department to his declaration +[and] documents accompanying the same, on file in the War Office and the certificate returned to said office, for proof of such service- She further declares that she was married to the said Benjamin Coit on the fifteenth day of October in the year seventeen hundred eighty eight, and that her husband the aforesaid Benjamin Coit died on the 28th. day of December eighteen hundred forty one, that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first day of January, seventeen hundred and ninety-four, vis, at the time above stated.
Sworn to and subscribed, on the day and year above written, before-
Sarah Coit [signature]  [stamp]
Asa Roath, Judge of the court of Probate for the District of Norwich
Court of Probate
Probate Office, District of Norwich, March 16th A.D. 1843. 
William L Hommedieu Clerk of the Court of Probate for said District, so hereby certify that the above contains the original proceedings of said court in the matter of the application of Sarah Coit for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and the seal of said court ~
[seal] William L Hommedieu [signature] Clerk
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I, Othniel Gager of the Town of Norwich in 
New London County of State of Connecticut do certify that I have the custody of the records of said town of Norwich from which I make the following transcript- 
"Capt. Benjamin Coit & Miss Sarah Coit both of "Norwich were married together on the fifteenth 
"of October Anno Domini Seventeen hundred and 
"Eighty eight." --- 
I certify that it is a true copy of the record with the 
exception of the date, which is expressed on the record 
in fair legible figures as follows - 
"15th of October Anno Domini 1788" 
I Othniel Gager above named, depose and say, that
I hold the office of town Clerk in the County, town and 
State aforesaid, and that the above is a true extract 
from the records of said town with the exception 
above named as certified by me 
Othniel Gager 
Clerk of the Town of Norwich
Sworn & subscribed 
before me 
Asa Roath Judge 
of the Court of Probate for the District of Norwell
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166,206
Page 12

United States of America.
State of Connecticut
Count of New London ss.

On this eighth day of June A.D., one thousand eight hundred and fifty five personally appeared before me, a Nortary Public within and for the County and State aforesaid, Sarah Coit aged 90 years, a resident of the town of [illegible] in the county of New London in the state of Connecticut who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of Benfamin Coit - deceised, who was a  [illegible] in the service of the United States {illegible]
Page 13

STATE OF CONNECTICUT
County of New London, ss.
I, JAMES STEDMAN, Clerk of the County Court in and for said
County, do hereby Certify that William P. Eaton
whose name, in his own proper hand writing,
is subscribed to the Certificate on Jurate on the Instrument
hereunto attached, was at the date of said Certificate a Justice Notary Public in on said date duly empowered to take
acknowledgments of Deeds and other writings, administer Oath, take
Depositions, & c.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF
I have hereunto set my name and affixed the Seal of said Court, at
Norwich, in said County, on this
8th
day of June, A. D. 1885.
James Stedman Clerk
[seal]
Page 14

Rev. and 1812
Wars Section
EEL
July 15, 1929

George P. Nichols
Francis Tavern
Corner Broad and Pearl Streets
New York, New York
Sir:
I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War
pension claim, W.10639, it appears that Benjamin Coit,
while residing in Norwich, Connecticut, enlisted in the
summer of 1776, and served three months as a private in
Captain Benajah Leffingwell's Company in Colonel Zabdiel
Rogers' Connecticut Regiment.
June 1, 1778, he shipped as cabin boy on board the
Schooner Spy", Captain Robert Niles, which vessel was
engaged to carry the Treaty of Alliance to Doctor Franklin. On the return voyage, the vessel was captured by
the British privateer Beasly" and taken to the Island of
Jersey. After some months there, he was allowed to go
to France, from whence he sailed for Baltimore, was again
captured and returned to the Island of Jersey, was permitted
to go to Spain and sailed on a privateer bound for
Newburyport, commanded by Captain Newman, and reached
Page 15

home after being in this service for fifteen months.
He was allowed pension by Special Act of Congress,
approved June 28, 1836, at which time he was a resident
of Norwich, Connecticut, and was aged seventy-seven years.
He was at one time Judge of the Court of Common
Please for Norwich, Connecticut.
He died December 28, 1841.
The soldier married October 15, 1788, Miss Sarah
Coit, of Norwich, Connecticut. They were married by the
Reverend Walter King.
She was allowed pension on her application executed
March 16, 1843, at which time she was a resident of Norwich, Connecticut, and was aged seventy-eight years.
She died September 3, 1855.
Their son, Edward Coit, was a resident of Norwich,
Connecticut, in 1843, and was aged thirty years.
There are no further family data.
Respectfully,
EARL D. CHURCH
Commissioner.
Date of
death
from Agency Book
Page 16

subscribers do [illegible]
Niles Marten on a [Vaigs] to Old France and back to the port of New London and we severally do in
Consideration of the monthly wages anexed to each of our names promise to do our duty as becometh good
and faithfull seamen agreeable to all the rules & Laws made by the Honorable Continental Congress
Relation to Martine affairs, and do duly at all times under the pains & penalties by said Laws provided
in case of Refusal or Neglect thereof, Each man to Receive one months wages in France and to be under
pay until Exchanged if captivated as Witness our hands

place & time of Entry | Men's Names | [Quality] |Wages per Month | Advance Wages | Whole Wages |Time When [Discharged]

June 1st 1778 | Benjamin Mortimore | Mate |12.  |  |126 ...a... |Ret'd home Apr 19 1779
June | Ephraim Smith | Seaman |12.  |  |  |
June | Michael Pepper |  [?] | 12. |  12.  |  |
June 2 | Cyrus Fanning |  [?] | 10. |   |  |
June 1st | James Brown |  [?]  [crossed out]| 9. |  5_8 |  |
June 1st | Lemuel [his + mark] Conkling |  [?] | 12. |    |  |
June 1st | Stephen Ready |  [?] | 10. |  6.  |  |
June 2nd | Benjamin Coit |  boy | 4. |   |  |
June 1st| Jotham Hitchcock |  Seaman | 10. |  6.  |  | Ret'd home Apr 15, 1779
June 1st | Solomon Smith| Landsman  | 6. |  2_8 |
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And the court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the motion & after putting this interrogations prescribed by this war department, that the above named applicant was in the service of the United States, as he hath stated in his declaration. & this court first certify that the Hon James Lansman & Benjamin Hendricks whose depositions are annexed each are residents in said Norwich & are credible persons & that their statements is entitled to credit - also the court finds that as asaid oath before whom said Hendricks deposition was taken is a justice of peace in this county of New London - & this certificate is in his handwriting -
And also the court certify that said Hon James Lanman was sworn in open court
Page 18

I Alexander Lathrop of the City of Norwich, 
Clerk of the County Court
of the City of Norwich do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Benjamin Coit for a pensioner.  In testimony whereof I have set my hand and seal of office this 16 day of July 1832. 

Alex Lathrop, Clerk
Page 19

I Benjamin Hendricks of the town of Norwich in New London County being duly sworn declare and say that I was a member of Capt. Jabez White's company in the Militia Regiment commanded by Major Zebediah Rogers - that Benjamin Coit Esq. was a member of the company commanded by Capt. Benajah Leffingwell.  That we proceed as to the same Coits in said Companies.  That the time of service I cannot exactly state.  I recollect perfectly well of his (unintelligible) Coit's being there a soldier in another company but the same regiment Dates at Norwich July 14, AD 1832
Benjamin Henricks
(X - his mark)

New London County ss (see Comments) July 14 - 1832 -
Personally appeared before me Benjamin Hendricks who hath subscribed the above deposition & made solemn oath to the truth of said Deposition (having been first cautioned to speak the whole truth) said Deposition taken at the request of Benj'n (Benjamin) Coit Esq. to be used before the Hon. City Court now in session in the City of Norwich before me. 
Asa Roath
Justice of the Peace
Page 20

application
Benjamin Coit
for pension

July 14 1832
July 24 1832
P. Off
Mr. Jenkin
Page 21

State of Connecticut
City of Norwich in the
County of New London

Be it known that I James Lanman of said City and Mayor thereof being duly sworn do declare and say that I have this day rec'd the declaration and testimony of Benjamin Coit Esquire of said City hereinto annexed, which was made in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7th AD 1832 and that I verily believe the facts stated therein are truly and correctly set forth and as reasons for such belief. I hereby declare that said Coit is a near relative of mine and at the times when he states his engagements in Public service to have occurred, he was a member of my fathers family, and I recollect the circumstances "of his absence and return home, his sailing in the schooner spy with Capt Niles and military service at the [unk]
Page 22

have been facts familiar to my mind as matters of observations, recollections, and tradition from the time of their occurrence respectively, been from my extreme youth at the time. I am unable to specify particulars with minuteness. The character of said declarant is highly respectable and where is known [unk] give entire credibility to his said testimony, without any ancillary support.

Further said not

James Lanman

Sworn before the City Court  in open Court- July 14, 1832.

Attest Alex Lathrop Clerk
Page 23

10.057
Sarah Coit
wee
ct
July 7 1838
Sarah Coit
m 88 L 41-
Page 24

I Edward Coit of Norwich in the county of New London & state of Connecticut aged thirty years depose testify & say that Benjamin Coit late of said Norwich dec. was my father and that he died on the twenty eighty day of December in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and forty one - That I lived in the same family with him many years and was present when he died.
Edward Coit
Sworn and subscribed
before me
Asa Routh, judge
of the court of probate for Norwich district

Probate office, District of Norwich, March 6 1843
I William S Hommedieu clerk of the court of probate for said district do hererby certify that Asa Roath Esq is judge of said court that his commission was dated June 1842 & will expire on the 20th day of June 1843 and that the foregoing are his true signature and that Sarah Coit, Othneal Gager & Edward Coit are persons with whom I am well acquinted said that their testimony is entitled to full credit -
I testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and the seal of said court
Page 25

"Capt Benjamin Coit & Sarah Coit of Norwich were married together on the fifteenth of October anno domini seventeen hundred eighty eight."

I Othniel Gage of Norwich in the County of New London and State of Connecticut do hereby that the above is a true and correct copy of record, with the exception of the date, which is expressed on the record in fair, legible figures, as follows, viz.
"15th of October Anno Domini 1788"

State of Connecticut
New London County}ss Town Clerk's Office

Norwich April 4th 1851

I Othniel Gager above named do depose and say that I hold the Office of Town Clerk of said town of Norwich, and that the above is a true copy of record with the exception of the date as above certified by me.

Othniel Gager
Town Clerk

State of Connecticut ss New London County

Be it known that on the 4th day of April AD 1851, personally appeared before the subscriber a notary public duly authorized by law to administer oaths within and for the County aforesaid, Othniel Gager, above named, and made oath that the above certificate and deposition by him subscribed is true and I certify that he is a credible person.

Saml W Wood
Notary Public
Page 26

Deposition of
Mrs. Sarah L. Huntington
as matter of
Benjamin Coit [illegible]
Page 27

To the Honorable Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress, assembled the declaration and deposition of Sarah L Huntington of the City of Norwich New London County and State of Connecticut, aged seventy years, been first sworn according to law, to be used in the matter of Benjamin Coit of said City Esquire in his application for an allowance or pension, for revolutionary services, is as follows, that is to say: I am the daughter of W Peter Lanman late of said City deceased and now the wife of Jabez Huntingdon Esquire President of the Norwich Bank. In the early part of the revolutionary war, it is believed in the year 1778, said Benjamin Coit Esq being then quite a youth, and a nephew of my late mother, resided in our family, as a member thereof about the time of the Treaty of Alliance  with France a [unk] armed often called the spy, was fitted out from Norwich, and commanded by the late Capt Robert Niles of this City, whose destination  was France and her expedition to carry out the ratification of said Treaty with the King of France, said Coit being, as deponent believes, at that time about seventeen years of age, was shipped as cabin boy with Capt Niles, and suited said enterpriser. After an absence of many months suppose and believe more than one year, he returned home to our family, having been as was said
Page 28

captured by the British and carried into Jersey Island on his return home from [unk]. His youth, the smallest of the [unk] and consequent hazard of the enterprise, its importance as connected with, my knowledge of, Captain, his capture and long absence, great joy of his return, after so many perils, acquaintance with other neighbors, who were up the creek, the safe delivery of the treaty with other circumstances, excited and interest in the event so great as to make impressions on my mind and memory as vivid as any circumstances at most of my long life. The recollections are vivid still and will be so while memory shall last. Having been born, and always residing, within a hundred rods or half a mile of the place, whence the spy sailed altho I might never have seen  the onset, nor said Coit on board. I entertain not, the merest doubt of either of the facts, and matters aforesaid, and verily believe them each and all to be [unk] by true. Further the deponent saith not.

Sarah L Huntinton

State of Connecticut
New London County ss City of Norwich

Be it known that on this day the third of March AD 1886, before me the subscriber a Justice of the Peace for said County personally came, Mrs Sarah L Huntington, above named and made solemn oath to the truth of the foregoing deposition by her subscriber which I attest.

James Lanman
Page 29

Benjamin Coit
[To accompany bill H.R. no. 511]
March 29, 1836.

Mr. Wardwell, from the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, made the following
REPORT:
The Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, which was instructed, by resolution, to inquire into the expediency of granting a pension to Benjamin Coit, report:
That the petitioner sets forth, that in the summer of the year 1776, he belonged to Captain Benajah Leffingwell's company of militia, in the State of Connecticut. They were ordered to Bynam river, where was a quantity of stores belonging to the revolutionary army, which was then stationed at Whiteplains. They marched through the State of Connecticut to the Saw Pits. The petitioner states that he remained with the compnay till the regiment was discharged and ordered home. To the best of his recollection he was in the service nearly three months.
This statement of the petitioner is clearly and substantially proved by the affidavits of Benjamin Hendricks and James Lanman.
The petioner further states under oath, that some time in the spring of 1778, he engaged with Captain Robert Niles, commander of the schooner Spy, a State vessel, who was ordered to go to France with public despatches for Doctor Franklin, who was then minister  to the French Court. The vessel sailed from Stonington the first part of June of that year, arrived at Brest in twenty-two days; after forwarding the despatches to Dr. Franklin, at Paris, the vessel sailed from Brest to Nantz, and remained there, as petitioner understood, for despatches. They sailed for home about the month of September of the same year. After being two or three days out were captured by a privateer and carried to Jersey island. The petitioner was then put on board a vessel from Bremen, bound to Bourdeaux, where he arrived in October or November following. He again took passage for Baltimore, was again taken, and carried to Jersey island; went on board a vessel from Sweden bound to Spain. He arrived at Vigo, after a passage of ninety days, where he found a privateer belonging to Newburyport, in America. He went on board, arrived at Newburyport in the latter part of the summer of 1779.
The petitioner states that the whole period from the time of his engagement with Captain Niles, until he arrived home, was about fifteen months.
The proof is abundant and perfectly satisfactory to the committee, that the petitioner sailed in the schooner Spy from the State of Connecticut, in

Blair & Rives, printers.
Page 30

[Rep. No. 516]

the month of June, 1778, for France ns set forth in his declaration. It also appears, from the testimony, that said vessel went to France for the purpose of conveying the ratification, by Congress, of the treaty with the French Government, to Dr. Franklin; that she must have sailed about the 1st of June 1778, and that Captain Niles returned about the 20th of July, 1779, after having been twice captured. The vessel never returned. The committee believe, from the testimony in the case, that said Coit was in the service of the United States during the war of the revolution about sixteen months; and that he is entitled to pay for that period, as a private in the naval and military service; and they report a bill accordingly.
Page 31

Benjamin Coit Esq
Norwich
Page 32

State of Connecticut
Comptroller's Office
Hartford August 21st 1834

On examination of the books & files of this office, it appears that on the 30th day of May 1778, an order was issued in the words following-
"State of Connecticut
By the Governor to the Committee of Pay-Table
Please to draw on the Treasurer in favor of Capt Robert Niles for the sum of one hundred pounds, lawful money, to be accounted for, on his voyage to France in schooner Spy which he commanded, Hartford 30th May 1778.
Your able servant
Jonth Trumbell"
That on the journal of the Governor & council of safety the following certificate appears, under the date of Tuesday July 20th 1779-"Captain Niles came in having arrived home last Saturday, after having been twice captured he gave an account of his voyage & arrived at Paris in 27 days after he sailed; (which was beginning of June 1778) and delivered his mail to Doctor Franklin, containing the ratification by Congress of the treaty with France, being the first account they had received of the event, which was greatly satisfactory to him & the French military & nation in general &c &c."
Page 33

That for the services of the crew of said Schooner Spy for the voyage to France there was paid by this state the following sums; (viz) which are entered under the following head (viz) wages &c of sundry on board the schooner Spy while prisoners in the service of the united States-
1780 January 21 Michael Pepper 76.0.0 continental....3.7.9
October 1 Robert Niles for his account 15.13.11
deduct this sun received of the American Commissaries in Paris..... 218.12.0...647.1.11
1781 October 24 James Brown....76.19.4 3/6
1783 Feby 5 Solomon Smith.....87.7.0
                 7 Lephaniah Hatch.....174.16.8
1784 October 14 Cyrus Fanning for his wages as seaman on board the Schooner Spy, while prisoner from June 2, 1778, to Sept 26, 1784 & expenses of returning home......242.3.9

L 1.280.16.5 3/4
which said sum of L 1280.16.5 3/4 was charged to and allowed by the United States.

Certified by Roger Huntington
Comptroller of Public Accounts
Page 34

Benj'm Coit Esq

Sir

Enclosed is a certificate of what appears on the books of this office, in relation to the Schooner Spy for the voyage to France- in April 1778. Capt Perkins was ordered to procure a load of staves and fit her out for the West Indies- the next appears is the order to Capt Niles for 100 pounds to be applyed in preparations for France.

Your most obt

Roger Huntington
Page 35

Recd Apl 4th/53
[illegible] Randall
Page 36

Pension Office
April 4 1853

Benjamin Coit
to what time paid?

Triplett
died 28th Dec 1841
Paid til his death

B.L.B

Connecticut Rolls
act of Congress 28 June 1832, p'd ann 4 Mch 1831 @ 53.33 per ann

J.S. Galleher, Esq
auditor
Page 37

Mch 14, 1906. Hist John C Daves
1929-July 15, Hist to George P Nichols

Rev WIDOW, &c.

File No. 10639
Sarah Coit
Wid
Benjamin Coit
Seaman Rev War

Act: Feb 20, 48

Index:-Vol. a, Page 146

[Arrangement of 1870]
Page 38

Connecticut
Benjamin Coit
act 7 June 1832
2109
Rejected see letter to J. Williams
31 July 1832

In letter 4 Aprl 1834 to Hon. J. W. Huntington
sent to Hon. AT Judson 9 Dec 1835

Sent to Hon. N Barber 30 July '35
Page 39

10.057 
Sarah Coit
Let - 
Let to A. Roath June 21, 1843
Let - R.C. (unintelligible), April 2-, (year illegible)
Act 7 July 1848
Page 40

Mr Johnson
The case of Sarah Coit no. 166.206 changed March 3 / 56 does not appear in my books.

Jas Hindel

charged [unk] Boyntin Mar 3

Department of the Interior
Pension Office, Official Business
Page 41

From W. P. Easton's Fire And Life Insurance
sign of the "Good Samaritan" Main St., Norwich, Conn.

F. L. S. Lala
Commission of Pensions
Pension Office
Washington D C
Page 42

26047
Rev Any
Page 43

Benj Coit
pension
Page 44

Joined the army at White Plains in the summer of 1776 nearly three months (cermo' recalled exactly)

Spring of 1778- engaged in the schooner Spy- Capt. Robert Niles- with dispatches for Dr. F......ratification of the French Treaty. 1st part of June 1778- sailed from Stonyton

Captured by the privateer "Bearly"- crew put on board a figate, except Niles and Claimant-finally arrived at Bourdeaux in Oct or Nov- taken the 2nd time-arrived home the latter part of the next service
Gone in all aboard 15 months

A Deposition of Benj'm Hendricks proves the 1st 3rd & the Comptroller [unk] the 2d
Page 45

Benj c Coits
pension
Page 46

Benj'm Coit

application for a pension

Rejected because the service was in a State ship

Serve 18 m  ship "Spy"  Capt Niles

Employ'd by the U/S. thro Gov. Trumbull & paid by U.S. to carry the [unk] Treaty to Dr. Franklin
Page 47

Sarah Coit
wid of Benjn
Connt
Act July 7. 1838
Letter to G Caney April 22/57
Letter to F E Hassler Dec 27/57
Same May 14/52
died 28 Dec 1841
Page 48

26 Feby 1856
Sarah Coit
166.206
application sent in
May '55 severance
acknowledged
Boynton Ct Ex mar 3/56
[crossed out gen 7 cannot find]
Everlly
Page 49

Eaton's Fire And Life Insurance Office
Sign of the "Good Samaritan"

Norwich, Conn., February 21 1856

Hon. P. Minot

Dear Sir

Last May I sent your Office an application for a Land Warrant for Mrs Sarah Coit, wife of Judge Benj Coit deceased, has [unk] received. Please answer.

Yours

W. P. Eaton

This application was made June 5th 1856
Page 50

Ct Dec 7
Benjn (Benjamin) Coit

WRITTEN IN OPPOSITE DIRECTION:

J.L. Edwards Esq.
Commision Pensions
Washington 

Hon. A. T. Judson H.R.
Page 51

Washington Dec 5, 1835

J.L. Edwards Esq.

Sir:

Please permit the papers in Benjamin Coit's case, rejected, to be sent to me. He wishes something further done. I will return the papers as soon as examined.

Yours

Andrew T Judson
Page 52

Washington July 2d 1836

Dear Sir:

In looking over the Pension Bills, you will see one for Benj. Coit. Please send me the certificate on the course of the day so that I may take it home.

Yours

A T Judson
Page 53

Washington March 13, 1851

Sir

Enclosed you will please find Power of Attorney for the care of Sarah Coit, Mary Rose, and Mary Miner, all of whom have been placed on the Pension Roll of Connecticut to S W Wood Esq, authorizing him to ask an enlargement of the allowance granted to them.

As the Agent of Mr. Wood I ask the privilege of examining the papers in these cases.

Very respectfully your obt servt

Geo. C. Ames
Page 54

Washington April 9 1837
Sir 
Enclosed you will please find
application of Sarah Coit Widow of
Benjamin Coit for the benefits of the
Joint Resolution of 1st July 1848


Very Respectfully
Your obt Sert
Geo C. Ames
Page 55

To Hon J E Heath
Comm of Pension

Sir

Saml W Wood of Sedgan Corners having been appointed Agent and attorney for me is authorized to present my claim for a pension.
I would therefor respectfully request you to extend to him or to any person whom he may employ the same facilities that you could extend to me were I personally present, in establishing my right to a pension, and by so doing you will oblige . Norwich Feb 1831.

Yours respectfully

Sarah Coit

In presence of Edwd Coit
Page 56

The Hon Commr of Pensions is hereby requested to extend to George C Ames Esq the same facilities that he is within requested to extend to me.

Saml W Wood

Sarah Coit

Ex by Mr Ames April 1 1857
Page 57

North Carolina Society of the Cincinnati
John C. Daves, Vice-President
214 Chamber of Commerce, Baltimore, Md.
[logo] 1781
March 12, 1906.
The Old War Division,
U. S. Pension Department,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Sirs:-

I wrote you on the 2d instant, in regard to the following,
and should be very much obliged to you if you would kindly
furnish me the information desired. The name of Benjamin Coit
appears in the Congressional Records as a Revolutionary pensioner.
By Act of Congress June 28, 1836, ( 24th Cong., 1st sess.) the
Secretary of War was directed to place the name of Benjamin Coit
on the list of Revolutionary pensioner, to be paid $53.30 per
annum from March 4, 1831 for his natural life.
Will you please tell me for what services and in what rank
in the Continental Navy, Benjamin Coit was granted the above
pension, I enclose you herewith stamped envelope addressed to
myself.
9061
Very truly yours,
John C Daves
Vice-President.
[stamp] [illegible] & N. DIV. FILES MAR 13 1906
[stamp] PENSION OFFICE U.S. MAR 13 1906
Page 58

BRIEF IN THE CASE OF Benjamin Coit Dec? & Sarah Coit his (uninatelligible)
County of State of Connecticut
act is June 7, 1832 & March 1863

CLAIM, ("original," or "for increase")
PROOF EXHIBITED, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls?   If either, state the substance. 
He was pensioned by Col.  (unintelligible) office
not (unintelligible) that the Cpy. was in (unintelligible) service as has (unintelligible) office 5th (unintelligible) - 
(unintelligible)

(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim?  If so, what?
The principal of this all myself approved by the Secretary.
Page 59

Benjamin Coit - deceased CT
Increased adm June 7 1832
15 mos seaman $60 per annum
from 4 March 1831 to 28 Dec 1841
when he died, deducting former payments at $53.33 per annum
spec Act Congress
Pay to his widow Sarah
act

Sarah Coit No. 9.782 widow of Benjamin Coit adm under 3 March 1843 &c.
15 mos Seaman from 4 March 1843 at $60 per annum

Cert to G. C. Ames Esq
Present
Page 60

HR. 511
Benjamin Coit
$53.33 per annum, commencing 4 March 1831
Act 28 June 1836
Connecticut act '32 role
Entd
Hon A. T. Judson
Com on Pensions
Page 61

[logo] Sons of the Revolution
in the State of New York
Fraunces Cavern
Corner Broad & Pearl Streets
New York City
July 23rd, 1929.
Earl D. Church, Esq., Commissioner,
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
I acknowledge with thanks receipt of
your favor of the 15th inst. giving information
with regard to the Revolutionary service of
Benjamin Coit, of Norwich, Conn.
Very truly yours,
Geo. P. Nichols
Secretary.
Page 62

An Act for the relief of Benjamin Coit.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the Secretary of War be authorized and required to place the name of Benjamin Coit on the roll of revolutionary pensioners, and that he be paid the sum of fifty-three dollars and thirty-three cents per annum, commencing on the fourth day of March, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-one, and to continue during his natural life.

Approved 28th June 1836

A true copy compared with the Roll in this Office.

Asbury Dickins
Chief Clerk

Dept. Of State
June 30th 1836
Page 63

Deposition of
Shubael Breed Esqr
de matter of
Benjamin Coit Page
Page 64

To the honorable, the Senate, and House of Representatives of the United States, in Congress assembled; The deposition and declaration of Thuback Breed of the City of Norwich, New London County and State of Connecticut, aged seventy six and duly sworn, is as follows, to be used in the matter of the application of Benjamin Coit Esq or an allowance on account of revolutionary services.

That for many years during and subsequent to the year 1778, the deponent was well acquainted with the late Robert Niles Esq, commander of the schooner Spy. That in the year named as aforesaid, the said Spy was fitted out, from said Norwich, on Government service by my late father in law, Jabez Perkins Esq ; and dispatched on a voyage to France, under the command of said Niles; said Perkins superintending the outfit in behalf of the Public, the deponent was acquainted with a number of the crew; and particularly with said Coit, who is entered in the Role of equipage as a Bay, which corresponds with his age at that time, the deponents general recollection is, that he served in said voyage, in that character, and never heard it doubted the vessel was said to have been captured, by the enemy, on the voyage home, and never did return, it was many months before said Coit returned after the Spy sailed. Said Breed has been a neighbor and
Page 65

friend of said Coit, ever since said voyage. Said Coit is mow advanced in life, has been a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, and is now laboring under the infirmities of age.

Shubael Breed

State of Connecticut
New London County ss City of Norwich

On this day the third of March in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred thirty six, before me, one of the Justices of the Peace within and for the County aforesaid personally came and appeared, Shubael Breed Esq, the deponent above named and made solemn oath, to the truth of the foregoing declaration and deposition by him subscribed according to his best knowledge and belief.

James Lanman
Page 66

Deposition of 
Ezra Backeas Esq
de matter of
Benjamin Coit Esqr
Page 67

To the Honorable, the Senate and House of Repre-
sentatives of the United States in Congress assembled, 
the deposition and declaration of Ezra Becker 
of the City of Norwich, New London County, and 
State of Connecticut, aged seventy six-
years, and duly sworn, to be used, in the matter 
of the application of Benjamin Coit Esq 
for an allowance or pension on account of 
Revolutionary service is as follows, that is to say: 
The deponent has from his youth been well acquainted with said Coit. In the year 1770,
he, and said Coit lived, and dwelt, near each 
other. The deponent well remembers the fitting 
out and sailing of the schooner ship from our 
Harbor, in said year, on a voyage to France, 
Robert Miles Master, and that said Benja- 
min Coit, went out in her, as one of the Crew 
said Schooner never returned, but as it was 
understood, after having arrived in France 
was, on her return home, captured by the 
British, and carried into Port. It was many months 
after said vessel sailed, before said Coit 
personally returned from Europe 
further the deponent saith not 
State of Connecticut Ezra Backes 
of New London City of Norwich 
On this day, the third of March A.D. 1836, before 
me, one of the Justices of the Peace for said County 
personally came. The above named deponent and 
made solemn oath, to the truth of the deponent 
aforesaid, by him subscribed, 
James Lanman
Page 68

To the Honorable the Senate and House of Repre-
sentatives of the United States, in Congress assem-
bled the declaration and deposition of 
Erastus Perkins of the City of Norwich, New 
London County and State of Connecticut 
aged Eighty four years, being first duly 
sworn, as the Law directs, to be used in the 
matter of the application of Benjamin Coit 
Esquire, for an allowance of pension, on ac- 
count of Revolutionary services, is as follows, 
In the year of our Lord one thousand 
seven hundred and seventy eight, my father 
Jabez Perkins Esqr was agent and acted in 
fitting out, and dispatching the schooner 
ship, of which Robert Niles Esq. was mas-
ter, on an expedition to France, with dis-
patches to Doct" Franklin, our minister 
at Paris supposed to contain, the ratifi- 
cation of the Treaty of Alliance with that 
Friendly Kingdom. I was a clerk in my 
fathers store, at the time, and assisting 
in such services as were proper, in fit-
ting said outfit, and was acquainted 
with the master, mate, and several 
of the complement of men, which formed 
the role of equipage of said vessel for said 
voyage, the vessel was armed and dispatch-
Page 69

as I believe, in the month of June AD 1778, I fully recollect. Benjamin Coit, whose name is mentioned in the Role de equipage , as the Boy on board of said vessel, and whom I have ever since known to be the same person, therein mentioned, and who still survives. He is near neighbor of mine, has been a Judge  in the Court of Common Pleas but is now laboring under the weakness of infirmities of advanced age.

The vessel never returned but it was understood, was captured on her return voyage. The Portlidge Bill or Role de equipage of said vessel, for said voyage, which is hereto annexed, is in my proper hand writing, [unk] the names of the mate, and crew, which I verily believe to be in their own respective hand writing including the name of said [unk] and the deponent entertains no doubt that he duly served until said capture, of the Spy agreeable to the free intent and tenor of the article hereunto annexed, and by him subscribed. Further the deponent saith not.

Eratus Perkins

State of Connecticut
New London County ss.

Be it known that on this day, the third of March AD 1888, personally came and appeared Erastus Perkins Esq, the above named deponent before me, a Justice of the Peace for said County and made solemn oath that the deposition by him [unk] aforesaid is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

James Lanman
Page 70

Benjamin Coit
Revo. Pen
Feby 3d 1836
March 29 1836
Betl reported No. 571
Mr. Judson
Page 71

24th Congress
1st Session
CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
February 3rd, 1836

On motion of Mr. Judson. 
Resolved, that the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, be instructed to enquire into the expediency of granting a Pension to Benjamin Coit of Norwich, Connecticut, who served in the War of the Revolution. 
Attest
W. F. Franklin    Clerk
Page 72

Benjamin Coit for his wages on board Schooner Sky Capt. Robert Niles on his voyage to France in the service of the United States 
15 months at $7 months is $105 less first month advance is $7   $95.0
to ration after the Capture at 20¢ day is 44.50
________
$142.50

Benjamin Coit expenses after his capture til he arrived at home in the summer of 1779.

After being captured & arrived in the island of Jersey my expenses while there til I sailed in a [illegible] vessel to Burdaux and my expenses while at Burdoux til I left there in the Baltimore Schooner; when I was again captured by a Jersey Catten & carried back to the island of Jersey & my expenses while there til I left there in a [illegible] is 2 ship for Spain we arrived at Vega after being on board almost three months. I then took passage in a [illegible] Trevatun belonging to Newburgport Capt Newman and arrived at Newburgport some time int he summer of 1779. My expenses thence & til I arrived at home my expenses in the whole cannot be less than two hundred dollars.
Page 73

Groton 21st July 1835
Sir,
   I now in enclose to you a certificate from Roger Huntington Comptroller of Connecticut. which settles the claim of Benjamin Coit to a pension beyond all dispute. You will please to notice that this spy was in the service of the state of Connecticut which has been acknowledged and paid by the United States. I must ask the favor of you to forward to me a pension certificate for B. Coit as early as it is convenient as Mr. Coit is an old gentleman and as far as the great injustice has been done him. 
         I am with Respect
          John Noyes Barber
P.S. I have not heard from Asa Baldwin's paper forwarded to you 22nd April Last
J.L. Edwards Esq.
   Comm. of Pensions
Washington D.C.
Page 74

Jan: 29 1853
application
of
Sarah 
widow 
Benjamin coit
late a Pensioner
for Revolutionary Services
on the 
Connecticut Tolls
for a 
Re=investigation
[illegible pencil writing]
filed 30 Jany 1852
F.E. Hasslser
Attorney
Page 75

Washington City DC
Jany 29th 1832

Honorable J E Heath
Commissioner of Pension

Sir

The application for a Revolutionary Pension of Sarah Coit widow of Benjamin who was a pensioner on the Connecticut Rolls, has been rejected upon the grounds (I believe) that the "Schooner Spy, Captain Niles, was not a public armed vessel." it is true that she was not a continental or congress armed vessel but that she was a public armed vessel of the state of Connecticut, will be most conclusively proven by reference to pages 240-1452 of the American Archives Vol 1, Fifth series and to which reference is now requested by yours most respectively

F E Hassler
attorney
Page 76

Declaration,
In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of July 1, 1848, and the joint resolution of March 3d 1851.

State of Connecticut
New London County ss.

Probate Office District of Norwich
April 4th AD 1851

On this 4th day of April 1851, personally appeared before the Court of Probate for the District aforesaid Mrs Sarah Coit, a resident of Norwich in said County, aged eighty six years, who, being duly sworn, according to law, doth on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed July 1, 1848 and the joint resolution of March 3d 1851. That she is the widow of Benjamin Coit who was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of fifty three dollars and thrity three cents per annum.

She further declares that she was married to the said Benjamin Coit on the fifteenth day of October seventeen hundred and Eighty eight, that her husband, the aforesaid Benjamin Coit, died on the 28th day of December eighteen hundred and forty one, that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January, seventeen hundred and ninety four, viz, at the time above stated. 

Sarah Coit

Before said Court,
attest,
W P Eaton Judge

Sworn to and subscribed in the day and year above written. In presence of 
Edwd Coit
Saml W Wood

I certify that Mrs Sarah Coit above named is a credible person.

W P Eaton Judge
Page 77


State of Connecticut ss
New London County
Probate Office, District of Norwich Ct. April 4th A.D. 1831
[seal]
I Enoch C. Chapman Clerk of the Court of
Probate for the District aforesaid, do hereby
certify that the foregoing contains the
original proceedings of said Court in the
matter of the application of Mrs Sarah
Coit for a pension, that William P. Eaton
Esq. before whom the within declaration was executed, is the Judge within
of Probate for said District, and that his signature
written is genuine -
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my
hand and affixed the seal of said Court
Enoch C Chapman Clerk

-
Page 78

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefits of the act of Congress of July 1, 1848.

State of Connecticut
New London County ss. Probate Office District of Norwich

On this 4th day of April AD 1851 personally appeared before the Court of Probate for the District aforesaid Mrs Sarah Coit, a resident of Norwich in said County, aged eighty six years, who, being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed July 1, 1848. That she is the widow of Benjamin Coit who was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of Fifty three dollars and thirty three cents per annum.

She further declares that she was married to the said Benjamin Coit on the fifteenth day of October seventeen hundred and eighty eight, that her husband, the aforesaid Benjamin Coit died on the 28th day of December  eighteen hundred and forty one, that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January, seventeen hundred and ninety four, viz, at the time above stated.

Sarah Coit

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written. In presence of Edwd Coit
Saml W Wood

Before said Court attest,

W P Eaton Judge

I certify that Mrs Sarah Coit above named is a credible person and that her testimony is entitled to credit.

W P Eaton Judge
Page 79

State of Connecticut
New London County
ss. Probate Office District of Norwich
[seal]
I Enoch C Chapman Clerk of the Court
of Probate for the District aforesaid, do here
by certify that the foregoing contains the
original proceedings of said Court in
the matter of the application of Mrs Sarah Coit for a
pension, that William Eaton Esq. before
whom the within declaration was executed, is the Judge of
Probate for said District, and that his signature within
written is genuine-
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and
affixed the seal of said Court this 4th day of April 1831
Enoch C Chapman Clerk
Page 80

Sarah Coit
Sarah Coit
widow of
Benj. Coit
for arrears of pension of
Revolutionary War
Filed October 25. 1851
by F.E. Hassler
Washington
Page 81

State of Connecticut
County of New London} ss.

Be it known that before me, John W Haughton, of the town of Bozrah, county of New London, a Notary Public in and for the County and State aforesaid, duly authorized to administer oaths, personally appeared Sarah Coit aged 86 and made oath in due form of law, that William & Benjamin Coit is the identical person that was revolutionary pensioner of  the United States of America, as by the files and records at the Pension Office in Washington will more fully appear, and that she cannot know of them otherwise than through the said office, and that she now resides in Norwich in [unk] and has resided there for the space of ten years past and that she makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining any arrears of pension that may be due her under the laws of United States; and that by these presents she does constitute and appoint F. E. Hassler, of the city of Washington, her true and lawful attorney, irrevocably, with power of substitution for her and in her name, place and stead, to ask and receive of and from the United States, any bounty land, extra pay, pensions, money or moneys that now is ir are due her on account of services rendered by her deceased husband; advances made, property destroyed or taken by the Government, or any claim arising from intercourse between the United States and any foreign nation, and the Indians, disbursements made, or expenses incurred by him while in the service of the United States, or on any account whatsoever, and in her name to give receipts and other sufficient discharges for such bounty land, pensions, patents, claims, and money due as aforesaid, and to attend to and prosecute any and all business of whatsoever nature she may have with or before any of the Departments of the Government or Congress, or any legally established commission of the United States, and, generally, to do any and every other act or acts that she might or could do. were she personally present at the doing thereof , she hereby ratifying and confirming whatsoever her said attorney shall do in and about the premises, by virtue hereof.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 30th day of September 1851.

Sarah Coit

Signed; sealed and delivered in the presence of} two witnesses
[unk] Hooker
Edwd Coit
John W Haughton

State of Connecticut
County of New London
On this 30th day of September 1851, personally appeared Sarah Coit before me, and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be her act and deed, for the purpose therein contained.

John W Haughton J.P 
Notary Public
Page 82

And I hereby certify that at the same time, personally appeared before (obscured) Northington Hooker and Edwd Coit known to me, to be two credible witnesses, and who being duly sworn, deposes and says, each for himself, that the above Named Sarah Coit now present, is to their knowledge, the widow of the identical person named in the above deposition, and that the said affidavit is correct, as they verily believe; that they are acquainted with the said Sarah Coit and that they are, each, wholly disinterested.
Subscribed and sworn to before me, upon the day and year first above written.
John W Haughton}   Northington Hooker
Notary Public}          Edwd Coit

Benjamin Coit and Sarah Coit were married October 15th AD 1788
Benjm Coit died December 28th 1841
    
         The above is a true copy of the (illegible) record as taken this day by me.
         In witness whereof I have hereunto set my name and seal at Norwich in the County of New London State of Connection this 30th day of September Anno Domini 1851
Attest John W. Haughton
Notary Public
Page 83

[crossed through Acts of of July  14, 1862 and March 3, 1873.]
2.109
REJECTED
P.O.
Benjamin Coit
Service. The papers were sent to
Hon A. J. Judson in Dec
 1835 & a special act passed
Enlisted
The widow Sarah Coit
Discharged:
admitted File No 10639 
Application filed:
Page 84

9.359
Connecticut
Sarah Cott
widow of Benjamin
who was a
Seaman
in the Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 60 Do;;ars and   Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.

Certificate of Pension issued the 6 day of Apl 53 and sent to G. C. Ames prest.
Acts of March 3, 1843,  & June
17, 1844.}
recorded in the Book A
Vol. 2 Page 51
Page 85


30.75
Connecticut
Benjamin Coit deceased
of in the State of
who was a Seaman in the
commanded of the
commanded by in the line for 
Revolution

Inscribed on the Roll of
Hartford
at the rate of
60 Dollars - Cents per annum,
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Ending 28 December 1841.
Arrears from $53.33 pr, ann.
Certificate of Pension issued the 6 day of April 1853 and sent to
G C Ames  Prest
Arrears to the 4th of
Semi-annual allowance ending
Revolutionary Claim, 
Act June 7, 1832.
Recorded by
R McRae Clerk,
Book E. Vol. 3 Page 9Download
Page 86

[logo] Sons of the Revolution
in the State of New York
Fraunces Tavern
Corner Broad & Pearl Streets
New York City
March 19, 1929
Pension Bureau,
Washington, D.C.
Gentlemen:

May I request you to send us the Pension
Record of Benjamin Colt who was born in Preston,
Conn., Dec. 21, 1759 and died in Norwich, Conn.
Dec. 28, 1841? In Connecticut Men in the War of the
Revolution page 661 he is listed as having received
a pension. We need this to complete an application
for membership.

Very truly yours,
George P. Nichols
Secretary.
McC
[stamp] PENSION OFFICE O U.S. MAR 21 1929
Page 87

[LOGO] 1783
Old War Division,
North Carolina Society of the Cincinnati
John C. Daves, Vice-President
214 Chamber of Commerce, Baltimore, Md.
March 2/06.
Old War Division
U.S. Pension Office,
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sirs-
Benjamin Coit of the Continental Navy was placed on the list of
Revolutionary Pensioners from March 4, 1831, to be paid $53.30, by Act of
Congress, June 28, 1836, (24th Congress, 1st Session.)
Will you kindly inform me of the services in the Navy of Benjamin Coit,
on which the above pension was allowed and oblige,
Very truly yours,
John C Daves
Vice-President.
[stamp] O.W.&N.DIV. MAR 5 1906
[stamp] PENSION OFFICE A U.S. MAR 3 1906
Page 88

Norwich Conn April 16 1853

L. P. Waldo Esq
Pension Office
Washington D.C.

Dr Sir
I am informed
that the claim granting a Pension to
my honored mother Mrs. Sarah Coit widow of
Late Benjamin Cori Decd Pensioner) is allowed.
If the papers are ready, you will oblige
her by sending them by return mail to her 
to my care.
---
Yours Truly
-
Edward Coit
Page 89

James E Heath Esq
Washington Oct 13 1852
Sir,
I transmit herewith
the Certificate of the Compton of
Connecticut in support of the application
of Sarah Coit widow of Benjamin of
Connecticut Oct 7. 1838.
This claim has been
disallowed upon the grounds that there
was no evidence to show that the "Spy"
was a public vessel, that she was a
public vessel is clearly established by
the computers certificate now presented
the account is headed
"United States Dr to the State of Connecticut
"for the Wages & c of sundry onbound
"the Sch. Spy
while prisoners in the
"service of the United States"
The spy was evidently
a public Vessel belonging to the State of
Connecticut, the expenses of Arming and
for the wages of the Crew were paid to
that state by the United States as there
of the army and all the other person of
the Navy were. t This certificate together
with the other evidence now on file and
Page 90

the further fact of her husband having been a pensioner would appear to be amply sufficient to authorize the allowance of her claim. The marriage in 1788 has been established.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Sevt
Geo. C. Ames
Page 91

State of Connecticut
Comptrollers Office
Hartford Sept 28th 1852

I certify that on application for further evidence of the service of Benjamin Coit, on board the armed schooner Sky, Capt. Robert Niles command, in addition to a former certificate given by the Comptroller of Connecticut, I find the following on the book called "Haskells Receipts" vis,
"The United States Dr. To the State of Connecticut, for the wages &c of sundry on board the schooner Sky while prisoner in the service of the United States". 
Then follows a list of sundry accounts amounting to "£1.280.16.5" for which E. Haskell Comm gives his receipt expressed "for wages &c of sundry on board the schooner Sky while prisoners in the service of the United States".
On the books of the Committee of Pay Table, I find beside sundry other accounts with Capt. Robert Niles the following under date of Oct 15th 1777.
"Capt Robert Niles by his acct received for Schooner Sky £2.456.11.7
Supra £2.
To 13 Tons Iron Pigs 180/£117.0.0
To Gov. Trumball's order on John Hancock 300.0.0
To order on Treasurer &c 225.0.0
To 1 old manifest & tour sail 45.0.0"
Page 92

to 2 Order  on Prosper Welmore-Esq. 488.0.7 for 
a discharge in his act
To a Mischayer in his a cot 3.17.3
To an  Ordnon Faust, in full 182.13.8 L

There are other charges on this account
previous to this, amounting to L 1.100
to make up the balance on the Dr side
R.G. Painey  Comptroller
by Geo. Robinson Clerk
.
Page 93

Deposition of
Erastus Perkins Esqr.
as matter of
Benjamin Coit Esqr.
Page 94

O. W. and N. Division

3-525

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington D. C. Mch 14 1906

MK
Wid File 10639
Rev War

Sir:
In reply to your request for a statement of the military history of Benjamin Coit, a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find the desired information as contained in his (and his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.

[column headings]
DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT.|
LENGTH OF SERVICE. |
RANK. |
OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. |
STATE. |
Summer 1776 | Almost 3 months | Private | Captain Benajah Leffingwell, Colonel Gabriel Rogers | Conn.

Engaged Spring 1778 | ~ | Seaman | Aboard Schooner Sky of Conn. Captain Robert Niles | [crossed out data]

Following Sept | was captured by Privateer "Bearly" from the Island of Jersey and taken to said Island; was permitted to go to France where we arrived in Oct or Nov. Sailed for Baltimore but was again captured and taken to Jersey; was permitted to go to Spain, whence we sailed on a Privateer under Capt. Newman where he arrived the following summer; 15 mos. after his enlistment

Battles engaged in, See above
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Norwich, Conn.
Date of application for pension, July 14, 1832. His claim was allowed.
Residence at date of application, Norwich, New London Co. Conn.
Age at date of application, 73 yrs, Died Dec. 28, 1841.
Remarks: Soldier married Miss Sarah Coit, Oct 15, 1788. She was 86 yrs old and a resident of Norwich, Conn in 1851. Her claim was allowed. Children: Benjamin (not found July 15-29 AWB) and Edward aged 30 yrs in 1843 res. in Norwich Conn.

Very respectfully,
Commissioner.


Mr. John C. Daves
#214 Chamber of Commerce
Baltimore MN