Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 8848, Robert Gillam, S.C.
Page 2

6.33 H

South Carolina

Elizabeth Gillam deed, 
widow of 
SC Robert Gillam 
who served in the Revolutionary 
war, as a Pr. Srgt and Captain.

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 
127 dollars and 41 
Cents per annum, to commence on
the 4th day of March, 1848. and end 
December 29th 1851.

Certificate of Pension issues the 
29th day of May 1855 
and sent to 
J.A. Black

Present

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 312 Vol. 2
Page 3

Declaration
In order to attain the benefit of the act of congress of the July 1838 entities, "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows".

State of South Carolina
Newberry  District

On this that ___ day of October one thousand and eight hundred and forty five personally appears before me John Belton O'Neall one of the Judges of the courts of law of the said state.

Elizabeth Gillam is a resident of the district and State aforesaid aged eighty seven years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doeth on her oath, make the following Declarations, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress paped on the seventh day of July one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight, entitled "an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows". That she is the widow of Robert Gillam, who was a soldier of the Revolution, from the commencement of hostilities until the end of the war, on the side of Liberty and the Independence of his country, against British influence, tyranny, and oppression. She cannot from defect of memory, at this advanced period of her life, recollect the many incidents of her husbands service, or the periods of it, or time, and can only detail the prominent acts of his service as follows, her husband volunteered as a private, in an expedition against the Cherokee Indians, commanded by Col. William and in which expedition her husbands father was an officer in command, and in which expedition the Indian Towns were burned, and their crops of corn destroyed, and which finally checked the future of the future inroads and depredations of the Indians. Her husband was
Page 4

was also a volunteer and private at the Battle of Stono in South Carolina, he was also at the Battle of Musgrove's Mills, and at the Battle of Blackstocks in South Carolina, and he was also at the Battle of the Cowpens in South Carolina, in these several Battles, her husband served as a private, but cannot state the names of the Captains, or Colonels, under whom he served in these several Battles, or during his service in the Revolutionary War. She is certain however, that from the peculiar character of the warfare carried on in South Carolina in the Revolutionary War, her husband's services in this trying period was continuous from the commencement of hostilities, until the close of the war. Her husband was an active daring Whig, and very obnoxious to the enemies of his country, and his safest position was in the actual service of his country, and cooperating with the friends of Liberty in contending and battling against British power and influence, and their more dangerous and deadly allies, the Indians and Tories, who were united and confederated together, for the subjugation, and the entire overthrow of Freedom, and success of the American Cause. She further states that her husband was a resident of Ninety Six District, and as she believes, the militia of Ninety Six District were under the command of Col Williamson, and Col Pickens, but has no documentary evidence, other than the annexed affidavits of Hugh O'neall and Zach S Brooks, to produce in support of this claim. She further declares, that she was married to the said Robert Gillam, on the [blank] day of [blank] one thousand and seven hundred and eighty four, and that her husband the aforesaid Robert Gillam, died on the seventh day of November one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, that she was not married to the said Robert Gillam prior to his leaving
Page 5

the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seventeen hundred and ninety four, viz at the time above states, and that she has remained a widow since the death of her husband Robert Gillam, and further, she says, that she believes her husbands services in the Revolutionary War was continuous for three years onupwards, but relies with confidence upon the accompanying affidavits, and the peculiar character of the War in South Carolina against a trifle enemy to prove the Justice of her claim, one thing she can assert with truth and confidence, that there is no fraud directly or indirectly in this her application for a pension, and desires to be admitted to the full benefit, to which her husband would have been entitled had he lived of those acts of congress passed for the relief of Revolutionary soldiers, as well as this and other subsequent acts of congress passed for the relief of the widows of Revolutionary Soldiers.
Swore to, and subscribed, on the day and year above written.
Before
John Belton O'Neill
Elizabeth Gilam

The State of South Carolina
Ninetysix District
I, John Belton O'neill one of the two Judges of the said state and in [blank] a presiding Judge of the Courts of General [blank] of the [blank] of the said state, in the said districts therof do humbly certify that Elizabeth Gillam, widow of Robert Gillam [blank] who is an applicant for the pension of
Page 6

the act of Congress granting half pay and pensions to certain widows passed on the 7th of July 1838, cannot from bodily infirmity attend this court of general sessions of the Peace and common Pleas in any of the Districts of the state to make oath to her disposition; that she came in person before me, at my residence in Newbury District, to swear to this her deposition and declaration made before me.  That I am personally acquainted with Elizabeth Gillam the applicant, and know her to be an [cannot decipher] lady of irreproachable character, creditability, and veracity: and that I am personally acquainted with C.M. Zachariah J. Brooks, and Hugh O'Neall (the last being my father): and know them to be highly respectable persons of great credibility and veracity and whose affidavit and affirmation accompany this application; (Hugh O'Neall is a member of the Society of Friends and is by law permitted to affirm instead of being sworn: his affirmation was made and subscribed before me / the signature of Col. Brooks, I believe to be and that of my father, I know to be genuine.  That I have satisfactory evidence from the declaration made my Mr. Gillam, the affidavit of Col. Brooks, the affirmation of Hugh O'Neall, and [unreadable text crossed out] affidavit that Robert Gillam and Elizabeth Gillam the applicant lived together as husband and wife since the year 1784 untill his death.  That the said Robert
Page 7

Gilliam was reputed to be a Revolutionary soldier and true friend of his country. But I know him personally, and have often heard his Revolutionary services spoken of by those, who have a hand in the Revolutionary war. That the evidence before me is, according to the love of South Carolina, ample, to establish the marrying of Robert and Elizabeth Gillam. Their marrying is regulation civil contract, and is here signed by witness, showing that persons have lived and cohabited together, and have been commonly understood and reported to be man and wife. The affidavit of Col. Brooks the affirmation of Hugh O'Neall from these facts and in addition I will say that I will remember Robert Giles ___ years before his death, and that he and his wife the applicant - Elizabeth were living together as man and wife, and were highly respectable people, and that I know their children, who were also highly respectable .  There is no public record of marrying in South Carolina. I can safely certify that there is no fraud in the application but on the contrary I believe it to be highly meritorious.  In testimony whereof I have subscribed my name and caused the seal of this court of Newberry District to be hereto affixed this third day of October Anno Domini 1845.  John Belton O'Neall.
Page 9

in which he feels certain, the the handwriting of said Robert
Gillam Senior father of Robert Gillam Junior both above mentioned
as to the body of the order of power of attorney and the signature of
"Robert Gillam J.P." to the attestation thereof.  That Robert Gillam
Junior & his wife Elizabeth survived said Robert Gillam Senior, till about
the year 1813 when said Robert Gillam Junior died leaving his surviving
widow Elizabeth Gillam who died a few year since at her
son's the present General James Gillam, who together with William
Gillam are now the only surviving children of said Robert
Gillam Junior & his wife Elizabeth Gillam both deceased.
That this Deponent's wholly now, heretofore & forever
& is interested in giving this testimony.  Sworn to and
Subscribed this 24t day of April AD. one
thousand eight hundred and fifty four
William Burgess
Before me
W. B. Merriwether
Magt AD

Another said deponent being duly sworn according to law
in addition to the foregoing statement as to his only & intimate
acquaintance with Robert Gillam Junior write ____ axquainted
with his handwriting & ____ request he has examined the signature
of "Robert Gillam" to the paper herunto attched and
that he has no hesitation in saying that the same, in his opinion
in which he feels certain, is in handwriting of said Robert Gillam
Junion, the husband of Elizabeth Gillam above mentioned, both
deceased.  That this Deponent is now heretofore & forever
& interested in giving this testimony.  Sworn to and subscribed
this 27th day of April AD one thousand eight
hundred and fifty four
William Burgess

Before me
W B Merriwether
Magt A D

State of South Carolina
Abbeville District
Personally appeared before
me an acting magistrate in & for said District, Colonel
Page 10

William Williams and John Holland both highly respectable and credible citizens of said District, who being
duly sworn according to law, do upon oath say that they are and have been well acquainted with the Deponent above
William Burgess and that they believe him to be of the
age by himself above stated and that he is a man
of sound mind & memory and further one to whose
statements upon oath are due full faith & credit.
That these deponents are disinterested in giving this testimony
Sworn to & inscribed this 27th
day of April A.D.
One thousand eight hundred and fifty four
Before me
W B Merewether
W.A. Williams
Wm Holland
Magt AD
And I the said Magistrate do hereby certify that
I am acquainted with the foregoing Deponents.
That I believe William Burgess to be of the age by himself
stated, that he is of sound mind & memory & worthy of
full faith & credit in his statements upon oath as above
and I further certify that Deponents Colonel William
Williams and John Holland are gentlemen
to whose statements are one full faith & credits
and that I am now, heretofore & forever disinterested
in taking the foregoing testimony or giving this certificate
Witness my hand the day & year last above
mentioned
W Meriwether
State of South Carolina
Abbeville District ⎬
I, Matthew A Donald,
Clerk of the Court of Common
Pleas & General Sessions for said District, State aforesaid
, do hereby certify, that W. B. Merriwether before
whom the preceeding affidavit and attestation were
made, (as appears by his name in his own handwriting
attesting the same, was at the date thereof a magistrate for
Page 11

Abbeville District, who was duly appointed, sworn,
& Commissioned & had signd the Roll of Magistrates kept
by Law in my office.
Given under my hand & seal the
sixteenth day of May Anno Domini
eightenn hundred & fifty four
Matthew McDonald
C.C.P. & G. S. A. D.

Capt. Robert Gillam
Page 12

12311
Elizabeth Gillam
Minor of Robert
SC
Act 7 July 1838
Page 14

He further states that the said Robert Gillam was married to Elizabeth Caldwell previous to the year seventeen hundred and ninety four.
That although this deponent was not present at the marriage, he was intimate with the parties and knows from the date of his own marriage and the age of his own children and that of the said parties that their marriage must have taken place previous to the time stated, and that the said marriage was the common repute of the country and that the said parties were always highly respectable in character and that they raised their children who arrived at mature age who were also respectable.
That the families of the Gillams and Caldwells were all active whigs in the revolution and great sufferers by the depredations of the Tories, and especially from the rapacity of Captain William Cunningham and the party under his command - -
This deponent further states that the said Robert Gillam has been dead for many years, that his said widow still survives without ever having been married to another husband -
He further states that in the appreciation of the said widow Elizabeth Gillam for a pension that he believes that there is no fraud directly nor indirectly but that on the country her claim is just and meritorious.
Page 15

This deponent further states that he believes that the said Elizabeth Gillam was attached to the Presbyterian Church at Little River
sworn to and ascribed before me on September 15, 1845
A.S. Nicholson, Magistrate
Zachariah S. Brooks

I certify that Hugh O'Neall and Zachariah S. Brooks are persons of respectability and high integrity and that they are worthy of credit and belief
Armistead Burt
29 June 1846
Page 16

State
State of South Carolina
Newberry District
Hugh O'Neall personally came before me and solemnly and conscientiously affirmed that he was personnaly acquainted with Robert Gillam and Elizabeth his wife in the Revolution both before and after their marriage - That he believes that they were married in the year one thousand and seven hundred and eighty four, which circumstances he connects in his mind with other incidents of his own family.
That they lived in wedlock til the death of the said Robert Gillam.
He further states that he has examined the annexed affidavit of Colonel Zachariah S. Brooks and dated the 15th of September 1845 and believes that the facts and allegations therein contained are true.
Hugh O'Neall

Affirmed and subscribed before me, one of the judges of the State of South Carolina September 16, 1845
John Belton O'Neall
South Carolina 
Edgefield District

Thomas G. Bacon Clerk of the Court of Edgefield District do hereby certify that A. L. Nicholson is a lawful Margistrate as his signature represents and that full faith and credit is due to his attestation as such.

Given under my hand and seal of office at Edgefield Courthouse the 6th October 1845
Thomas G Bacon
Clerk
Page 17

Rev. and 1812
Wars
Section

Mr. G. L. Summer

1711 E. Main Street
Newberry
South Carolina.

March 12, 1930.

Dear Sir:

I advise you that the Revolutionary War records of this
bureau fail to afford any information in regard to James Griffin
who served in the South Carolina Troops, or who applied for pension
from that State; or to a Joshua Gillam.
You are herewith furnished the histories of Robert Gillam
and William Griffin.
From the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim W.
8848, it appears that Robert Gillam served as major during the
Revolution, and at that time he was a resident of Ninety Six
District, which was later Newberry District, South Carolina.
He was Acting Justice of the Peace in Newberry District,
South Carolina, after the Revolution.
He died in 1795.
There is no claim for pension on file on account of the
services of this Robert Gillam.
In the papers of the above mentioned pension claim, it
also appears that Robert Gillam (son of the above named Robert )
while living in Ninety Six District, South Carolina, served during
the Revolution as a private, sergeant and captain with the
South Carolina Troops under Captain John Wallace, Major Robert
Gillam (his father) and Colonels Williamson and Andrew Pickens.
He aided in the destruction of the towns and crops of the
Cherokee Indians, and was in the battles of Stone Ferry, Musgrove's Hills, Black Stocks and Cowpens.
Page 18

He married in 1784 Elizabeth Caldwell.
He died November 7, 1813.
On account of his services in the Revolution, his widow,
Elizabeth, was allowed pension on her application executed October
3, 1845, at which time she was eighty-seven years of age and was a
resident of Abbeville District, South Carolina.
In 1846, Senator John C. Calhoun stated that Elizabeth Gillam was his aunt.
She died December 29, 1851, in Abbeville District, South Carolina, at the home of her son, James Gillam (then referred to as
General James Gillam ) and was survived by two children, James
and William.
It was stated that Robert and Elizabeth Gillan had three
children who reached maturity, but the name of the other child
was not given.
Very truly yours,
EARL D. CHURCH
Commissioner.
Page 19

1929, Oct. 25. Hist to
L. C. Browne Letter sent to
Rec. for reply rel [related] to soldier
Jas. Michael Gillam born in 
1838. see case of Jas. Gillam
Sur. Ctf. 24392 war 1812 also
1929 Dec. 11. L.C. Brown [advise?] cost 
of photos.
1930 Jan 25. Photos mailed to 
L. C. Browne & [illegible]
1930
Mar 12. hist to Mrs.
G. L. Summer

Revy [Revolutionary]

WIDOW, &c.
File No. 8848
Elizabeth Gillam
Wid
Robert Gilliam
Capt Rev War
Act: Febry 2d
1844
Index: -- Vol. A
Page 272
[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 20

Januayr the 9 day 1796 Ten days after
date I promise to pay or Cause to be paid
unto James Caldwell Exetor of the Estate
of henry wilson decast the Sum of 
thireteen pound Eight Shillings Starling
it being for  Value Recvd of him as Witness
my hand [Robert Gillam Junior - struck through]

Test  William Phillips
Intrest is 15" 9" 7
L5"18"1
9  11  6
Page 21


February 1797 then Record of Robert Gillam three pounds and seventeen
& six pence in part of the within
Rec'vd by me
James Caldwell
of
this Note
token of
from James Caldwell
on behalf of
William Phillips
Gillam, Robert
S.C.W8848
Page 22

Gillam, Robert
SC W8848

James Mayson [illegible]
the commissioner of the [illegible] of So. Carolina for Act [illegible]
Indents.
Page 23

State of South Carolina
District
ninety six
352.1. 17
=
I do hearby [hereby] authorize and Impower Robt Gillam
Esq to draw and receive the Indents that may be due
to Luke Mayson, deceased for his service in the
this Regiment of Continental Troops in this State and
the Interest due thereon
Given under my hand the
17th of July 1786
-
James
Mayson
I do Certify that James Mason
did sign and acknowledge the above
before me and that [illegible] Luke Mayson
was a youth and son of ye said J Mason
Robert Gillam J.P.
Page 24

Elizabeth Gilliam  wid  Robert S. C.
[illegible] 1843 - No 7.543

LPW
July 17
Page 25

Elizabeth Gilliam widow of Robert
admitted Act 1838 to So Ca
for G.H Jones
Page 26

7.543
-
South Carolina
Elizabeth Gillam, decd
widow of Robert
who was a Jr Sergt & Capt:
in the Revolution
Increased from $60
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate
of
127
Dollars 41
Cents per annum, to commence
on the 4th day of March, 1843.
& end 4th March 1848
---
Certificate of Pension issued
the 20th day of February 1855
and sent to
Hon. W.W. Boyce
Ho of Rep
Acts of March 3, 1843, and
June 17, 1844. 
Recorded in Book
Vol. 2, Page 166.
Page 27

Hon. Mr Waldo.
Washington
City
Page 29

Elizabeth Gillam
SC 
'43

Cole

Hon. L. P. Waldo
Comm of Pensions
Washington City
DC
Page 30

9848
South Carolina
Elizabeth Gillam decd
widow of Robert
who died in 1848
of [blank] in the state of [blank]
who was a private sergt and captain in the [blank] commanded by Captain [blank] of the [blank] commanded by [blank] in the Revolution

line
Increased from $60.
Inscribed on the Roll of Charleston
at the rate of 127 Dollars 41.
Cents
per annum, to commence on the 4th day of
March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 20th day of
February 1855
and Sent to
Arrears to the 4th of on W.W. Boycem H of R [House of Representatives]
Semi-annual allowance ending 
(Relationary Claim Act July 7, 1838
Recorded by G. Getty Clerk
Book D.
1.
Page 307
Page 31

Mr Evans will please
act as agent in the
following cases Heir
Elizabeth Golson Decd
So Ca [South Carolina]-Heir Elizabeth
Gillam So Ca
Mahala Wilson
Widow William So Ca
Geo H Jones
Sur of dc Claims
Page 32

9848
South Carolina
Elizabeth Gilliam
Widow of Robert Gilliam
who was a pensioner under the Act of
and who died on the 7th November 1813
of Newbury Dis. in the State of S. Carolina
who was a Private in the company the
commanded by Captain
regt commanded by Col Williamson
in
the S. C. Militia line for 18 months
Inscribed on the Roll of S. Carolina
at the rate of
60 Dollars
---
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day
of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 30th day of
January 1846 and sent to Hon J.C
Calhoun, Senate U.S.
Total amount,
$300-
Act July 7, 1838.
Recorded by D Brown Clerk
Book D
Vol. 1
Page 307
Page 33

Letter to Pen Agt 27 April 1848

Hon. W.W. Boyce 16th May 1854
Same June 18 1854

J. A. Black Nov 14, 1854

7.543

South Carolina
Elizabeth Gilliam
widow of Robert Gilliam
who was a Private
the Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate
60 Dollars
Cents per annum, to commence
the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the
30th day of January 1846
and sent to Hon J.C. Calhoun
Senate U. S.
Recorded in Book A
Vol. 2
Page 166


Act of March 3,
1843.
June 17, 1844.
Page 34

Numbers
Page 35

Elizabeth Gilliam
widow, 1838. S.C.
Page 37

See Hon. WW Boyce
Page 38

Robert Gillam
Page 39

Comptroller General's Office
Columbia So. Ca.
March 4th 1834

No 470
Lib. W

Issued the 22d August 1786 to Robert Gillam for
Sixteen pounds eight shillings & seven pence for
duty as Major & for property lost in 1779 & 80  & 81 per
amount [illegible]by the Commissioners Principal $16.87
Annual Mr L 1.30. No. 47
No 470 No 4722 August 85 Mr Robert Gillem his acct of Militia duty as 
Major before the reduction  of Charlestown, also for
lost & provisions supplied the courts and militia in 1779, 
1780 & 1781 the Whole amots to Curry L 683: 11:7
Ste
L97.13.1
State of South Carolina
To Robert Gillum D. Duty as
performed provisions
supplied & property lost p. Col. Aud. =
[illegible] return Curry L683: 11:7
L 97.13.1
Ninety-six District A pay bill for service done the Public by Maj. 
Robert Gillam from the 9th of Feb. to the 5 of April 1780
both days included on it expedition to Georgia 53 days  (also be 57) at L4. 10 per day 

247.10. attested the 21st May 1783 before me Robt Anderson  I do hereby certify that the within mentioned
Fifty five days was performed by Major Robert Gillam 11th June 1786

(Signed ) Levi Casey Colo South Carolina Ninety-Six District
the Public of South Carolina to Robt Gillam D.
to Seventy five Dollars paid for pork on our march
to Headquarters at Augusta February 12th 1780 L121:17.6
the 11th July 1783 before me
Signed Robert Anderson.
Robt. Gillam "Received
Page 41

closely similar in all points of resemblance as to style With those
of Robert Gillam" and Robert Gillam sent "in account no 470
Book W above copied, that I have no hesitation in believing
them to be in the handwriting of one person, and different
in style from the signature of Robert Gillam" in said account
no 497 Book S;, in so much that I am satisfied in my mind,
that the latter account no 497 Book S, & the two former. viz,
no 470 Book W, & 3860 Book X, belonged to different
persons.

For Comptroller Genl

T S Jacobs
Deputy

(no Seal of Office)
Page 43

Elizabeth Gillam paid to 4th
March 1848, at $60 per annum.

Rob J Atkinson
Page 44

Jan 10 1948
M Evans

Eliza Gillam
S. C. 44

Jno C Cochran

J L Edwards Esquire

Commissioner  of Pensions
Washington
D. C.
Page 45

Pension Agency 
Charleston 6 July 1848

Sir,
I herewith forward the vouchers of Elizabeth Gilliam a pensioner under Act June 1844 for authorizing to pay the same.

I am sir respy
Your ob servt,
Jno C Cochran

J L Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D. C.
Page 46

To be ___ with
[unclear]

W W Boice

H R
Page 48

Columbia So: Ba:
20th Janry '53.

Hon. W. W. Boyce

Dear Sir,
Upon my return home to find your favor containing the letter of Mr. Waldo in reply to which I beg you will call his attention to the fact that it has already been shown by the Certificate of Court of Ordinary of Abbeville District in which Elizabeth Gillam did that her only surviving children are Gen James Gillam & William Gillam. As I do not suppose is necessary to reprove the fact you will please call the attention of the Commissioner to the same. I regret that it became necessary to give you any months additional trouble in the premise. 
Accept my thanks.
very respectfully
Your Obt. Serv.
James A Black.
Page 49

Columbia S.C. 
9th Febry 1855.
Hon. Wm. W. Boyce 
Dear Sir,
I now enclose certificate 
of the Court of Ordinary that the only living children of Elizabeth Gillam decd are 
James Gillam & William Gillam. Issued 
it just as it was sent to me but I see that 
the affidavits of Messrs McBryde & Criswell was not "appended" an Ordinary must have forgotten to do so. Please send this in 
to the Commr of Pensions and I hope 
the case will then soon be allowed. 
I am very respectfully 
your obt sert 
James Aug. Black
Page 51

Increase
Elizabeth Gillam decd widow
of Robert
Admitted
Act 7th July 1838
16 mos 141/2 ds private Inf. $54.92
5 " 51/2 Sergt " 25.83
2 " 10 " Capt. " 46.66
$127.41

$127.41 per annum from 4th March 1836, to 4th March 1848, when she was last paid, excepting two years, and [illegible] deducting former pay amounts of $60.00 per annum.

Pay, James Gillam, and William Gillam only surviving children.

Certificate to, Hon. W. W. Boyce Esgn. House of Reps.
Page 52

Elizabeth Gillam decd
Widow of Robert
S. C
Adm @ 2 Feby 1848
16 mos 14 1/2 or pri $54.92
5 " 5 1/2 " sergt 25. 83
2 " 10 " capt 46, 66
$127.41
per annum from
March 1848, up to which
time her last payment was
made) to 29 Dec 1857
when she died,
Pay to, James Gillam and
William Gillam only children
Cert to
J A Black Esq 
now/Present
Page 53

Columbia So. Ca.
21st Novr 1854

Hon.:L. P. Waldo
Comm of Pensions,
D. sir,

I was surprized to learn by your late
letter that no copy of Indent & Account No. 494 Book S. had been
furnished by me in the case of Elizabeth Gillam. I surely thought
I had done so. Of course if there is, as you say, no copy of that account
on file Mrs. Gillam could not have had the benefit of the same in the allowance 
made her, and hence the equity of the claim for an increase. I now
mail the copy desired by which it will appear that both in the Indent & account
he is styled "Robert Gillam  Junr and that his order on the Commrs of
the Treasury was acknowledged before Robert Gillam Justice of the Peace.
This Robt. Gillam J.P. Was the man under whom Wm. Burgess swears he served
as Constable and the father of Robert Gillam Junr. I hope you may
see Mr. Boyce on this case, for I am sure I ask nothing but that
which is reasonable true & just & well sustained by Record evidence. I make
it a point from which I will not vary to present no claim which is not fully
sustained by evidence that will bear the strictest scrutiny.. I have a character
at stake, & I defy all the ingenuity of the Department over which you preside
to discover any other than valid legal testimony of the highest kind generally
of Record in my cases. It would be gratifying to me to have you enquire
of Mr Boyce or any & all of our delegation in Congress touching my
character in this, my native State. The difficult is not in me
or my cases, but that it has become the policy of your Office to increase
(daily almost) the difficulties in the way of the honest claimants on account
of the dishonest. You are right in being rigid & vigilent but
Page 54

where record evidence is clear in support of a claim, it should in
my opinion, be allowed its full weight in your decisions and 
especially when it is fully corroborated by other testimony which
would be admissible in a Court of justice.
I am,
very respectfully
Yr. Obt. Sevt.
James A. Black

P. S.

What is meant by "Anderson's Return"so often on the Records of
the Comptroller's Office, you may see explained as pages
718 & 749 of 4th Vol. "Statutes of South Carolina, where Col Anderson
was authorized & required to collect a second set of Vouchers
from the Regiments of Waters, Brandon, and Roebuck for the relief of
those public creditors the vouchers of whose accounts have been
distroyed by Colonel Anderson" So that Robt Gillam Junr Sergt &
Capt. belonged to one of those three Regiments in service just before
& after the fall of Charleston, 12 May 1780.

You will notice that in
Copy enclosed of accounting S. Thos McChuken is mentioned
as Lieutenant of Gillam's Co. & the concluding parts of the Comptroller's
certificate shows that McChuken was 70 days a Lieut in close of 1781. This
will show (it may be presumed) the length of time Gillam was a Capt. and
the balance of £352 Certified by Cole Anderson, or embraced in Gillam's "voucher,"
may go to his credit as Sergt. and consequently you can readily determine
that the increase due is what this account 497 S. covers by way of Robt. Gillam Jr's
service as "sergeant & Captain."
JB.
Page 55

11
Comptroller Generals Office
Columbia So. Ca. Nov. 20 1854


Comptroller Generals Office
Columbia So. Ca. Nov. 20th 1854
No 497
Book S.
Issued the 18 of June 1787 to
Mr. Robert Gillam Junr
for Thirty Three pounds Sixteen 
shillings and nine pence farthing
Sterling for duty as a sergant & Captain
in the Militia as pr  account audited
Principal £33.16.9 1/4
Annual Interest 2.7.4
No 46. "
"497. S. No. 46.
497.
Mr Robt Gillam his accot of Militia duty
as Sergt & Captain, before and since the 
reduction of Charlestown amotg to
Curry £236.17.6.
Strlg £33.16.9 1/4
State of SouthCarolina
to Robt Gillam
Duty p. Coll Andersons return
Curry £36.17.6.
Stg £33.16.9 1/4
I do hereby certify that I have recd accounts of
Vouchers against the Public from Robert
Page 56

Gilliam to the amount of $ 352 which said
Account & vouchers I shall return to the
auditors Office in Charles Town.
" Robert Anderson
23d of May 1783.
I do hereby certify that the above is made over
to Thomas Bride
16th November 1784
" Robert Gillam "
A list of the mens nam "
Robert Gillan Capt
William Yerby Lieut
Thomas Meclurkin, Se Lieu
Abraham Gray
Quarter M
James Crague
Sargent
Andrew Mailliams. S.
John Couch
John Caldwell
Josh Whitmore
Joseph Jones
John Levil
John Richy
Arch McDaniel
I Robert Gillam Junr do hereby assign
the full amount of the Principal and Interest 
now due and which shall be due on
the Certificate for my Indent due to me
for services to the Publick of the State of
South Carolina to Thomas Bride his
Page 57

Heirs and assigns, having from the said
Thomas Bride received the full value this 
25th day of April 1785.
(signed) Robert Gillam

Witness
(signed) Robert Gillam D. P.
Received June 18th 1785 the full amount of
the above account in Treasury Indent No 497
Book S by virtue of an Order
for Robert  Gillam
(signed Thomas McBride

I do hereby certify the foregoing to be a 
true copy as taken from the Records of
this Office, and I further certify that
it appears from Account No 584 Book W
on file in this office that Thos. McClurken
served 70 days as Lieutenant under
the Command of Coll Fair, commencing
October the 8th and ending December the
18th 1781

For Comptroller General
P. S. Jacobs
Deputy

(No seal of office)
Page 58

Columbia So: Ca:
9th Nov: 1834.

Hon L. P. Waldo
Commr of Pensions,
Dear Sir,

I enclose a letter from:
W.W. Boyce which clearly shows that there were two persons
of the name of "Robert Gillam" who served in the Revolutionary war
one of whom Robert Gillam Junr was "sergt. & Captain before & since fall
of Charleston, "12th May 1780, the other "Robert Gillam Senr" was Major
"before" that time, viz, to 5th April 1780, as shown by acct. no 470 Book W. and further does it seem reasonable that the same man who was Major "before the fall of Charleston" would have accepted of a lower
Commission after that event?  In you report of 19th July last
addressed to Hon. W. W. Boyce (a copy of which I have just recd from your Office)
you make no reference to the testimony of Wm Burgess who credibility,
soundness of mind & accuracy of memory is fully supported by the affidavit
 of Col Wm Williams & Dr. Jno Holland, together with the certificate of W. B. Messi, wether Esq the magistrate all of whom state that they are disinterested, & all of whom 
are gentlemen whose testimony could not fail to have it's full weight before
any legal tribunal of the land. Wm. Burgess knew both the Gillams
as father & son and as officers of the Revolution - that Robert Gillam senr. was 
Justice of the Peace (Burgess having acted as his Constable) & Robert Gillam Junr.
was the husband of Elizabeth in whose right the claim for increase of pension in preferred.  The objection that Elizabeth Gillam in her
application reward years ag did not state that her husband was an 
officer maybe reasonably met by the evidence presumption that in the drawing
up of her paper Mr. Sperien (now deceased) had not had an investigation of the 
Comptroller's Records & doubtless was not aware of the difference in the
Page 60


Columbia So. Ca:
8th Novr 1854
Hon. L.P. Waldo
Commr of Pensioners,
Dear Sir, 
Being in this place
today I have at the request of James A Black Esq
attorney for the heirs of Elizabeth Gillam decd
examined the two accounts in the Comptroller General
office, Book S 497 & Book W 470 in the name of
Robert Gillam" & upon careful examination & com-
parison of the same, I have no hesitation in expressing
my opinion that they refer to two distinct individuals of
that name. These facts are manifest from the "Robert
Gillam "mentioned as Sergt & Captain before & since the
fall of Charleston, being in the order enclosed in account No. 497 Book S. designated as "Robert Gillam
Junr," and the same being attested before "Robert
Gillam J.P." in a different handwriting, which
said signature of "Robert Gillam J.P." when compared
with the three signatures of Robert Gillam one of
which is as "Senr" in account No 470 Book W. is found
to be in the same handwriting, and to differ sufficiently
in their characteristics of style, from the signatures
of the "Robert Gillam" who is designated as "Junr"
Page 61

as to put the question beyond doubt in my mind
that there were two persons of the name of
"Robert Gillam" one of whom served as
Sergt & Captain before & since the fall of Charleston,
& the other as Major before that time.
I would therefore earnestly
write you to give the case
a new & careful consideration
Respectfully
Your obt Sevt
W. W. Boyce
House Representatives
Page 62

Additional evidence
the case of
Elizabeth Gillam of
South Carolina for
pension under act
7th July 1838
Hon
W.W. Boyce
Ho. of Rep
Page 63

Comptroller Generals Office
Columbia So. Ca. July 6th, 1854.
I do hereby certify the following to be true fac similes as near as I can take them of the signatures of Robert Gillan found in accounts No 470 Book W and 497 Book S on file in this Office. viz Book W. No 470 "Robert Gillam Senr" "Robert Gillam -" 
Book S. No 497 "Robert Gillam JR" "Robert Gillam" 
For Comptroller General P.S. Jacobs Deputy
(No Seal of Office)
Page 64

Elizabeth Gilliam
Declared Oct '45. under act of '38
That her husbands first service was against
the Cherokee nation, and that his father was
an officer in command on the expedition also
that he served actively during to the close of
hostilities
Lived in 96 Dist - first service under Col
Williamson - was a private - does not allege
that he was an officer.
Col J.S. Brooks - same time
served with Robt Gillam one tour of 6 mos
 under Capt Jno Wallace of Newberry Dist
under Col Andw Pickens.
Robert also performed other service amounting in all, to as much as one year of active service
as a private in the militia
says nothing about his being an officer.
Hugh O Neal same time
Says the Gillams and Caldwell were all acives
Whigs and suffered much from the rapacity of
Capt Wm Cunningham & his followers
I find no Certificate of Indent No 497. Book S
nor of any service except that of Maj Gillam
Page 65

Breif in the case of Elizabeth Gillam decd widow of Robert
Abbeville District and State of South Carolina
act 7th July 1838, &c
Claim, (" original, or for increase.)
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Elizabeth was pensioned under above act at $80 per annum for Eighteen months services, as private. It is now proved
by the certificate of the Comptroller of South Carolina that
he served in addition, five months and five and a half days as
Sergeant, and two months and ten days as Captain
The identity of Robert is proved by a companion of his hand
writing with a fac simile of his signature to an original order in said Comptroller Office.
Elizabeth died in 1848, proved by report of Third Auditor &c
James Gillam and William Gillam only surviving children
proved by order of Court of Ordinary for Abbeville District
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
The Commissioned waives Administration upon Elizabeths estate, and directs the certificate to issue to the
surviving children, upon the proof as set forth
Name and residence of Agent
Hon. W.W. Boyce
House of Rep.
Charles H. Rhett
Examining Clerk.
Page 66

Newberry, S.C., 2/28/1930
1711 E. Main St.
Commissioner, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:
I have your letter of Feb 21st. Will you please give me the Rev. war histories of the following soldiers: 
Joshua Gillam
Major Robert Gillam
Both of these were in S.C. Militia, the former also in the Continentals. Thanking you for this information and data.
Very truly, G.L. Summer
Page 67

IN REPLY REFE
8 - 871
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF PENSIONS
Briefed by   JFB
Orig.
Cert.
Claimant
Soldier    James Michael Gillam
(Gilliam)
Service   Co. A, 2 S.C. Inf. (1864)

No   claim, Service record    , 192
    , Clerk,
No. claim, Alph'b record Nov. 12, 1929
JFB, Clerk
REMARKS: No. B. L. warrant.
No O.W.
No Ind.War.
No Mex. War.  JEF 11 / 12 / 29


D.C. Cook
Chief Division
6-1944  Government Printing Office
Page 68

of this
o C. BROWNE
AMERICAN BANK BUILDING
POST OFFICE BOX 185
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
November 7, 1929

OFFICE OF 
THE COMMISSIONER
NOV 11 1929
U.S

Mr. Earl D. Church,
Commissioner, Bureau of Pensions,
U. S. Department of the Interior,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:-

Referring to your file Rev. and 1812 Wars Section
MCS/eel of October 25th:"

I thank you exceedingly for the information given to
me and shall be glad to have you advise me what will be the
cost for me to obtain photostatic copies of the papers in
pension claims, Revolutionary War W. 8848, and also pension
claim war of 1812, survivor certificate 24392. I should like
to obtain copies of the papers in these two claims and will
send remittance to cover after receipt of your advice as to
the amount that will be necessary.

Referring to the last paragraph of your letter advising
that part of my inquiry had been referred to the proper
division of your Bureau for reply relative to James Michael
Gillam ( Gilliam), born 1838, died 1864, I beg to advise that
I have just obtained information that this soldier was a
Private in Company A, Second S. C. Regiment under Colonel
Vance. I shall be glad if you will pass this information
to the said Bureau in order that they may provide me with such
information that may be at hand with regard to him.
Yours very truly,
L. C. Browne
This is Confederate Service-
However, I made note
of this addendum in file
and referred it to Chief 
Soldier Div.
Nov. 18, 1929
Page 69

List to L. C. Browne:
[Wids.] decl. Oct 3, 1845 and statement of John Belton O'Neal - 5p
Oct 3,1845
Statement of Col. Lake J. Brooks Sept 15,1845 3p
Statement of Hugh O'Neal, Sept 16,1845  1p
Statement of Thomas P. Speirim Oct 31, 1845   1p
Statement of Thomas P. Speirim  Jan. 19, 1846 & J.C. Calhoun Jan. 27, 1846  1p
Comptroller [Gen'l] S.C. Mar. 4, 1856  3p
M Burgess' Statement Apr. 27, 1854 &N.A. Williams & John Holland & N.B. Meriweather & Mathew McDonald ending with date 
May 16,1854    4p
James Hayson - July 17, 1786  1p
Old yellow piece - Robert Gillam Jr. & [nm] Phillips &
James Caldwell - both sides   2p
Comptroller Gen'l - S.C. - July 6,1854  1p
Letters to Com. Waldo from W. W. Boyce - Nov. 8, 1854  2p
Let of James A Black to Com Waldo - Nov 9, 1854  2p
Comptroller Gen'l S.C. Nov 20, 1854  3p
Let. of James A. Black - to Boyce - Jan 20, 1855  1p
Wm. Hill's Statement James & Wm Gillam on liv child - Jan 29, 1855
James Gillams statement Apr. 26, 1855 & Dr. John Holland in Apr. 28, 1855 2p
& County Aty. Wm. Hill - May 23 - 1855  1p
34p
Page 70

IN REPLY REFER TO 
3-1865
UNITED STATES 
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF PENSIONS 
WASHINGTON
Page 72

Rev. and 1812 
Wars Section 
MMHF/ eel

 
December 11, 1929


Mr. L. C. Browne 
P. O. Box 185 
New Orleans, Louisiana
 
Dear Sir:

I advise you that photostatic copies of the papers 
on file in Revolutionary War pension claim of Elizabeth, 
widow of Robert Gillam (W.8848) and War of 1812 pension 
and bounty land claims of James Gillam (S. C. 24392 ) will 
be furnished you at the rate of fifteen cents a page. 

The number of pages in claim W.8848 is thirty-four 
and the number in claim S.C.24392 is ten. Should you 
desire to have these certified, allow twenty-five cents 
extra for each of the two claims. 

The proper amount should be forwarded to this bureau 
by money order drawn to the order of the Secretary of the 
Interior. 

The name of the son of James Gillam (S.C.24392) as 
given in the history furnished you on October 25, 1929, as 
John C. Gillam should have been Robert C. Gillam. 

It is regretted that this reply would not have been 
made sooner but letters are answered in order of receipt 
and requests similar to yours are so numerous that 
the bureau has been unable to make immediate reply to each 
request. 

Very truly yours, 


E. W. MORGAN 
Acting Commissioner. 

   44
   15
  ----
  220
  440
-----
6.60
  .50
-----
7.10
Page 73

RLES BROWNE
Office Box 185
leans, Louisiana
December 5, 1929


Mr. Earl D. Church,
Commissioner, Bureau of Pensions,
U. S. Department of the Interior,
Washington, D. C.

Dear Mr. Church: --

In my letter of November 7th, I asked if
you would kindly advise cost for me to obtain photostatic
copies of papers in pension claims: Revolutionary War W-8848
and War of 1812, Survivor Certificate 24392.

Not having received a reply, possibly that
paragraph of my letter was inadvertently overlooked. I shall
be obliged for your courteous advice, so I may remit the
amount.

Yours very truly,
L. C. Browne
Page 74

submit in duplicate 1-687 phone branch 476
All inquiries regarding this job should refer to Requisition No. 39021
Requisition for Duplicating, Addressograph, Photostat, and Blue Print Work.
----------------------------------------------
Department of the Interior
Washington
Chief, Division of Publications,  January 16, 1930
Room G 139
Please Furnish work specified below
Bureau Ordering - Pension
Deliver to Room No. 5033
(All copy for duplicating work should be plain and written in elite type, exactly line for line as it is to appear on finished job.)
Title and description of job: photostatic copies of 34 pages from Revolutionary War Pension claim of  Robert Gillam, S.C. Troops, W. 8848.
No. of copies: 1 of each 
Shall form be kept standing?  ..... ...... days
for further information see: Mrs M. M. H. Finich 
Room No. 5033
Phone No. 541
Approved: Altz Silkisortz chief clerk of bureau  
Morgan Will. H Finch Chief of Division
Division of publication reordered January 16 1930 department of the interior 
Note: No order made "Special" unless statement showing necessity is written below and approved by Chief Clerk of Bureau ordering
-----------
Check Work Desired
-------
duplicate
multigraph single or double space facsimile signature
mimeograph folding  one side or both sides? once or twice? facsimile signature? 
assembling stapling Once? twice? side? end? 
electric typewriter fill in addresses? dated? 
addressograph from lists
envelopes, size
proof list
labels (submit sample)
fill in letters

photostat X Size actual Official use? Repay? Yes $ 5.10
blue print size official use? repay?

remarks
(over)
Page 75

NOTE: Routine changes of addresses may be made on this blank [illegible] formal reference  through or initialing of chiefs of branches or [illegible] clerks of
bureaus.
( Date )
INDICATE BY AN X IN PROPER SQUARE ACTION TO BE TAKEN.
  Make new addressograph plate
┃ Change present addressograph plate
┃ Destroy present addressograph plate
On list
as follows:
Now reads
1
2
3
4
5

Should read
1
2
3
4
5


FOR USE OF DUPLICATING AND ADDRESSING SECTION
ADDRESSOGRAPH
The above change was made
Date
Operator
MULTIGRAPH
Operator Date 
Type set by Date
Remarks

MIMEOGRAPH
Operator  Date  Cut By
Date
Remarks
Page 76

Rev. and 1812 
Wars Section 
MCS/ eel

October 25, 1929

Mr. L. C. Browne
P. O. Box 185
New Orleans, Louisiana

Dear Sir:
I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary 
War pension claim, W.8848, it appears that Robert Gillam 
served as major during the Revolution and at that time he 
was a resident of Ninety Six District, which was later 
Newberry District, South Carolina. 
He was Acting Justice of the Peace in Newberry District, 
South Carolina, after the Revolution. 
He died in 1795. 
There is no claim for pension on file on account of 
the services of this Robert Gillam. 
In the papers of the above mentioned pension claim, 
it also appears that Robert Gillam (son of the above named 
Robert), while living in Ninety Six District, South Carolina, 
served during the Revolution as a private, sergeant 
and captain with the South Carolina Troops under Captain 
John Wallace, Major Robert Gillam (his father) and Colonels 
Williamson and Andrew Pickens. He aided in the destruction
Page 77

of the towns and crops of the Cherokee Indians and was in 
the battles of Stono Ferry, Musgrove's Mills, Black Stocks 
and Cowpens. 
He married in 1784, Elizabeth Caldwell. 
He died November 7, 1813. 
On account of his services in the Revolution, his 
widow, Elizabeth, was allowed pension on her application 
executed October 3, 1845, at which time she was eighty seven 
years of age and was a resident of Abbeville District, 
South Carolina. 
In 1846, Senator John C. Calhoun stated that Elizabeth 
Gillam was his aunt. 
She died December 29, 1851, in Abbeville District, 
South Carolina, at the home of her son, James Gillam (then 
referred to as General James Gillam) and was survived by 
two children, James and William. 
It was stated that Robert and Elizabeth Gillam had 
three children who reached maturity but the name of the 
other child was not given.
Page 78

Certificate of 
Judge of Court 
of Ordinary 
that James Gillam
 and William Gillam are 
only surviving 
children of Elizabeth 
Gillam. 

For date of Elizabeth 
Gillam's death see 
Certificate of Judge 
of Court of Ordinary
already on file in 
the claim.
Page 79

State of South Carolina 
Abbeville District. It is hereby certified
by the undersigned Judge of the Court of
Ordinary in and for said District and which is 
a Court of Record, that satisfactory evidence
has this day been submitted to said Court by
the affidavit of John McBryde and James
Criswell. hereunto appended that James
Gillam & William Gillam are the only
living children of Mrs. Elizabeth Gillam
deceased revolutionary pensioner of the
United States. Given under my
hand & seal of said Court
this twenty ninth day of January
AD One thousand eight hundred
& fifty five
William Hill
Ordy Abb. Dist
Page 80

Oct 27, 1845   12311

Elz Gillam

July 1838

J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
District of Columbia
Page 81

South Carolina
Abbeville District
October 1840
Hon. J L Edwards
Sir 
Enclosed in the Declaration of W Elizabeth Gillam a highly reputable widow of a Revolutionary Soldier accompanied by the depositions of Z S Brooks and Hugh O'Neall citizens of credibility and veracity and also the Certificate of Hon John Belton O'Neall one of our most distinguished judges of this state. You will also perceive, that the depositions are attached, all by a ribbon and the Declaration attached to the depositions, all of which, are wrapped with the initials of my name viz. T.P.S. a facsimile of which is herein exhibited, there is an unimportant inaccuracy in the Certificate of Tho G Bacon Sr has placed his certificate below the Deposition of Hugh O'Neall, where it should've been below that of Z S. Brooks, however the purport of this certificate shows to whom it is applicable, referring above to A L Nicholson the magistrate before whom T G Brooks made by deposition. By request, I leave be as some agency in drawing this claim, but from the loss of memory of W. Gillam it could not have been drawn and a specific [illegible] it is, imperfect or it was appear for want of [illegible], it is nevertheless [illegible] claim, which merits our conversation, and entitles to this [illegible] initiatives of the Law for her relief. Be pleased to communicate to me the fate of its [illegible] at as early a period or practicable, 
Your very Respectfully
Tho. P. Spierin
Page 83

by her son General James Gillam and both these
deponents swear that they are & have been
wholly disinterested in giving this testimony and
said Dr John Holland swears that the date of
said Elizabeth Gillam is further rendered certain
to his mind by reference of other circumstances 
the time during which she was in her last illness.
. Sworn to & Subscribed the 28th
day of April 1835
Before me
Jno Garrant AD

Jn Holland
RC Gillam
Henry Beard
And I the said Magistrate do hereby
certify that I am & have long been personally
acquainted with all three of the foregoing
Deponents & that they are gentlemen to whose
statements as above are one full faith & credit &
that I am wholly disinterested in giving this
Certificate. Given under my hand day
& year aforesaid
Jno R. Garrant
Ad
Page 84

Certificate of Judge of Court of Ordinary as to date of death of Elizabeth Gillam widow of Robert Gillam decd
Page 85

State of South Carolina SS
District of Abbeville This hereby certified by the undersigned Judge of the Court of Ordinary in & for said District & which is a Court of Record, that satisfactory evidence has this day been submitted to said Court by the affidants of James Gillam and John Holland & RC Gillam and Henry Beard.. respectible & credible citizens of said District that Elizabeth Gillam deceased who was formerly the widow of Robert Gillam who was reputed to have served as an officer in the Revolutionary [in superscript the word:] war, died on the Twenty ninth day of December Eighteen hundred and fifty one and that said affidants are hereunto attached. I further certify that I am wholly disinterested in giving this Certificate In testimony whereof I have here unto set my hand & affixed the seal of said Court this twenty third day of May in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred & fifty five.
[Note above seal:] The word "war" above in [illegible] before Siguring.
[Faded seal appears on left lower side]
William Hill
Judge of the Court of Ordy for Abb Dist
Page 86

Jan 28 46

Eliz Gilliam
SC 38 [illegible]

8404.432

Elizabeth Gilliam
widow of Robert
Gilliam - Private
S. Carolina Militia
18 months
$60 per ann
Act '38-'43
& 44

Mr. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
narrued ub 1784
husband died Nov. 7 1813

Cert letter
Hon. J. C. Calhoun
Senate U. S.

John C. Calhoun
Senate US
Page 87

[written sideways] Jan 28 46
Elz Gilliam
SC. 38 Sm.

Elizabeth Gilliam
widow of Robert
Gilliam, Private
S. Carolina Militia
18 months
$60 per an
Act 38-43
& 44
-
W Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Married in 1784
husband died Nov. 7, 1813
---
---
Cert: to the
Hon. J.C. Calhoun
Senate U.S.


[written sideways]
Hon J.C. Calhoun
Senate U.S.
Page 88

Hon John C. Calhoun
Washington City
Dst of Columbia
Page 89

So Ca Abbeville C. House

Hon J C Calhoun                  19 January 1846

Dr  Sir

I have undertaken to aid Mrs. Elizabeth Gillam, widow of Robert Gillam, and mother of Genl Jas Gillam, to obtain a pension under the Act of Congress passed in 1838. and the principal objection is want of proof of her marriage previous to January 1794. Is there any circumstance within your recollection to proof the fact of Marriage in this case. Mr. Edwards the Commissioner of Pensions, will shew you the Declaration of Ms. Gillam , corroborated in part by the testimony of Col Z Brooks of Edge field, and the testimony of Hugh Oneal of Newbury, accompanied by the Certificate of Judge Oneal. It would be a great favor conferred upon this widow of a worthy revolutionary soldier, to give your aid, in her application, as I am informed she is your relative, & that you are well acquainted with her other family.

Yours Very Respectfully
                  Thos. P. Spierin

                       27th July 1846
Mrs. Gillam, the widow of Robert Gillam, is an aunt of mine. I have no knowledge of her marriage, & as far back as I can recollect, which extends back beyond 1794, she was called [illegible] or the wife of Mr Gillam, and have with the least doubt, that she was lawfully married to him before 1794. If a more particular statement should be required, I will call & see the declaration referred to in the above letter. 
                J. C. Calhoun