Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S 1146, Aaron Westbrook, New Jersey
Page 1

(3-1776)

SERVICE
New Jersey

Westbrook, Aaron

NUMBER
S1146

carded

CONTENTS
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Declaration in order to obtain the Benefit of the act of Congress passed this 7th day of June 1832.

State of New Jersey Sussex County SS.  On the 17 day September 1832, at Montague in Sussex County Personally Came before me James Stott one of the Judges of the Inferior Court of Common Please in and for said County Aaron Westbrook a resident of Montague in the County of Sussex & State of New Jersey, being Infirm and unable to attend the County Court of Said County, his residence being about Twenty five Miles from the Site of Justice Aged Seventy Eight years who being first Duly sworn according to Law doth on his oath make the Following Declaration in order to obtain the Benefit of the act of Congress Passed the 7 June 1832. That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and Served a Leutennant as herein Stated,_____  That he entered the service a Lutennant in the year 1776 in the month of March under Captain Emanuel Hover for one Month & Marched to New York, when staid out his time of Retd Home, __ about One Month after He Turned out for Five Months as Leutennant under Captain Abraham Shriner & went to New York & from thence to Flatbush on Long Island and was in the Battle at that Place under the Command of Colonel Johnson on the  Third day thereafter he returned to New York after having Sustained a Considerable loss of Men, one Field Piece & One Baggage Wagon, from Thence he marched with the army to Fort Washington and after remaining there a short time he went to White Planes, remained there a few days & Then went to Fosson Bay & then Crossed the North River to Fort Lee & from thence down the River to New Jersey.  Passed Through Newark & New Brunswick to Six Mile Run.  When his Term of Service expired and he returned home in the Following year Immediately after Harvest he turned out as A voluteer in the Capassity of Liutt under Capt. Emanuel Hover, went to Elizabeth Town, kept Garrison during the Month & Retd Home __the year following He Served under Major
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Common Pleas in and for Said County of Sussex [illegible] Certify that Aaron Westbrook the above applicant cannot attend the Court of  Common [illegible] from Bodily Infirmity and that I am fully Convinced and Satisfied after the investigation of the matter [illegible]. prescribed by the war department that the above named applicant was A revolutionary Soldier & served as he States  in the Capacity of Lieutennant and I also further Certify that I am personally acquainted with Captain John I Westbrook of Sandiston & Joseph [Illegible] and Joseph Fanankin of Montague who has signed the annexed Certificate that they reside in Said Townships of Sandiston and Montague in said County of Sussex and that they are creditable persons & that their Statement is Intitled to ,In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 15 day of October 1832.
James Stoll

State of New Jersey
Sussex County Ss I. Joseph E. Edsall Clerk
the Court of Common Pleas in and for Said County of Sussex do hereby certify that James Stoll Esquire whose name is Subscribed to the foregoing certificate is a Judge of Said Court of Common Pleas--duly commissioned and Sworn and that true faith and credit  is and ought to be given to all his Official acts as such judge - that I verily believe the Signature thereto Subscribed to be his.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this Sixteenth day of October AD Eighteen Hundred and thirty two.
J E Edsall Clk

Westbrook, Aaron
N.J. S1146
Page 4

...Westbrook, two months in protecting the [illegible] from the incursions of the Tories & Indians in [illegible] New Jersey on the Delaware River and the following [illegible]. He served two months. Viz.: once under Majors Westbrook & Stennick aforesaid in protecting the frontiers and the [illegible]. The officers during the War of the Revolution and was constantly on the high alert.

That he frequently took command of scouting parties & put the enemy to flight. At the time the Lackawaxen Settlement was put to flight by the Indians, he, the deponent, raised about thirty men. Took command of them & went up the river in pursuit of the Indians but could not overtake them, & after several days pursuit, abandoned the pursued and returned home. At another time, he was out several days in Pumpock [Pomonok] in the State of New York when they fell short of provisions and suffered much. After the close of the war he considered his commission of one further service and offered it to be discharged by the children. And further says that he has no documentary evidence and that he knows of no person whose testimony he can procure who can certify of his services except William Cartwright, Capt. John D. Westbrook & Joseph Hannity, whose affidavits are hereunto annexed. He was born in the Township of Montague & County of Sussex in State of New Jersey where he now lives & has ever since. Record of his age is recorded in the Book of Births and at the Dutch Reformed Church of Brunswick of which he preserved a certificate. He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the Agency of any State.
s/ Aaron Westbrook (X - his mark)

Sword and subscribed the day and year aforesaid before me.
s/ James Stoll

I, James Stoll, one of the Judges of the Inferior Court...
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28190 Increase
New Jersey
Aaron Westbrook decd.
of Montagne in the State of N. J. who was a Lieut. in the Compy. commanded by Captain Shumer of the Regt. commanded by Col. Johnson in the N. J. troops for 10 months

Inscribed on the Roll of Trenton at the rate of 133 Dollar 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831 & end 4 August 1834, when he died.

Certificate of Pension issued the 7th day of Mar. 1850 and sent to Hon. H. Putnam. H. R.

Arrears to the 4th of   
Semi=annual allowance ending
Increased from $23.33
Payable to only surviving child
to wit
Alexr. Westbrook

Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.

Recorded by J. T. Chase Clerk,
Book E Vol. 3 Page 136
Page 6

3rd Oct 1835
Alexr. Westbrooks
Account
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Aaron R. Westbrook to Jas. B. Armstrong. Dr.
To balance of book account commencing 17 July 1824 and ending 22 Nov. 1830.....$16.67
Interest from 1st May 1827 to 1 Oct 1835 is 8 y(ears) & 5 months.................8.41
                                                                               ======
                                                                               $25.08
Note to D. Dean...............4.64
int(erest)......................72
(Note to) A.V. Foster.........3.63
int(erest)....................2.55
(Note to) J.B. Armstrong......1.69
Int(erest) to 1 Oct 1835 is...2.08
                            ======
                            $14.81
J.B. Armstrong's acct........25.08
                            ======
                            $39.89
Deduct C. Denitts note........3.77
                            ======
                             56.12
                            ======

B.H......135.85
J.B.A.....36.12
Writing M..1.50
Recording....75
         ======
         174.22
             x2
         ======
         348.44

Rec(eived) 2 Oct. 1835 of Alexander Westbrook, the above sum of Thirty six dollars and Twelve dollars [Cents] in full. $36 12/100.
s/ J B Armstrong
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No. 21,190

Arron Westbrook, dec(eased), N. Jersey.
Act 7 June 1832.

Increased to $133.33 as Lieut(enant) 10 months, deducting what has been paid at 123.33 per annum.

Pd. at 4 Aug. 1834.
Only child Alex(ander) Westbrook.

See record evidence the case of Sarah Van Ettin, N.Y. 
Act. '43 Widow.

Hon H. Putnam, H.R.

Affidavit Nicholas Vanning.
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State of New Jersey Sussex County ss
On this 31 day of December 1849 personally appeared before the undersigned a Justice of the peace in and for the said county Aaron Fredenburgh a resident of Montague in the County and State aforesaid aged eighty seven years and upwards who being duly sworn according to law doth on his oath depose and say that he was born and has allways lived in the neighbourhood where he now lives That he was acquainted with Aaron Rose Westbrook sometimes called Aaron Westbrook from his earliest recollection That he the said Westbrook was during the Revolution a Lieutenant in Colonel Rosecrantzes Regiment of Sussex County militia and during the war resided on the Delaware frontier of the same County commonly called the Munsink frontier That he done a great deal of service during the war as a Lieutenant and at the time of his death was in receipt of a pension for services rendered as a private only That he was pensioned as Aaron Westbrook This deponent at the time that Westbrook declared for a pension lived a near neighbour to him and knows that the said Aaron Westbrook who was pensioned as a private was the same person who was called in the Revolution Aaron Rose Westbrook and who at that time this deponent knows was a Lieutenant He further saith that he knew of no other person by the name of Aaron Rose or Aaron Westbrook during the Revolution That the same Westbrook he thinks was a Lieutenant in Capt Shumers company
Aaron Fredenburgh X his mark
 
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year above mentioned
John H Nelden
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I certify that I am acquainted with Aaron Fredenburgh who made and subscribed the forgoing affidavit by making his mark and that his statement herein made are entitled to full credit and belief The words "the said Westbrook" interlined before signing
John H Nelden Justice

(written vertically left lower corner)
Appt
A Freedembugh
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State of New Jersey
Sussex County//

On this 28 day of December 1849, satisfactory evidence has been produced before the undersigned, one of the Judges of the Court of Common Please in and
for the aforesaid County being a Court of Record entitled to take oaths. That Aaron Westbrook, who was a Revolutionary Pensioner died on the Fourth day of August Eighteen Hundred and Thirty four. That he left no widow and that he left but one child, Alexander Westbrook, now surviving the said Aaron Westbrook.
s/ John D. Everitt

State of New Jersey
Sussex County//

On this 28th day of December 1849, personally appeared before the undersigned, a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County aforesaid, Alexander Westbrook, a resident of Montague in the County and State aforesaid, aged Sixty three years, a man of truth and veracity who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath depose and say that he is the son of Aaron Rose Westbrook, or Aaron Westbrook. That he was present when his father made application for a pension before Judge James State.

That he signed the declaration made by making his mark. This name was written by the Judge, Aaron Westbrook, when it should have been written Aaron Rose Westbrook. That he made application for a pension for services rendered as a Lieutenant, but for some cause unknown to the deponent, he was only pensioned as a private in Col. Rosecrantz' Regiment of Sussex County Militia...
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This deponent further says that the paper hereunto attached purporting to be an account due from Aaron R. Westbrook to James B. Armstrong was paid by this deponent and he knows that he was the same person who made application for a pension for services done in the Revolution as a lieutenant & who was a pensioner Aaron Westbrook, a private. And at the time of his death was a pensioner. That the said Aaron Rose Westbrook died on the Fourth day of August One Thousand Eight Hundred and Thirty four at the house of the deponent in the Township of Montague in the County and State aforesaid. This deponent further saith that he never knew any other person by the name of Aaron R. or Aaron Westbrook living in Sussex County or in any other place.
s/ Alex. Westbrook

Sworn to and subscribed the day and year before mentioned before me. "As a lieutenant &" interlined before signing.
s/ John D. Everitt, Judge, &c.

Affidavit:
Alex. Westbrook
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$1.41
Rcd mortagery 13 May 1822 of Aaron R Westbrook one Dollar and forty one cents in full of his account.
Jas B Armstong
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Know all men by these presents that I, Alexander Westbrook, of Deerpark in the County of Orange and State of New York, am held and firmly bound unto Aaron Westbrook of Montague in the County of Sussex and State of New Jersey in the sum of two thousand dollars, lawful money, to be paid to the said Aaron Westbrook, his certain attorney, executors, administrators or assigns, to which payment well and truly to be made. I do hereby bind myself, my heirs, executors & administrators and every of them firmly by these presents. Sealed with my Seal and dated this Third day of June in the year of our Lord 1831.

The condition of this obligation is such that if the above bounden Alexander Westbrook, his heirs, executors, administrators or any of them shall and will, well and truly, pay the sum of Twenty dollars to such persons as have a lawful demand against the said Aaron Westbrook at this time or free him from debts and also to maintain and support the said Aaron Westbrook and Sarah, his wife, with meat, drink, washing, lodging, clothing, firewood at the door and all [duplicate: all] things necessary and convenient for such old person during his natural life without fraud or delay then this obligation to be void or else to remain in full force and virtue
s/ Alex. Westbrook

Sealed and delivered in the presence of.
s/ Jas. B. Armstrong
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Bond
Alexander Westbrook to Aaron Westbrook
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State of New Jersey Sussex County 
James B Armstrong of the township of Montague in the county and state aforesaid aged sixty seven years being duly sworn according to law doth on his oath depose and say that he was well acquainted with Aaron R Westbrook some times called Aaron Westbrook of the same place in his life time. That the deponent was a merchant in the place where he now lives for several years and that he done a considerable trade with the said Westbrook That he often gave to the said Westbrook receipts in settlements and sometimes received due bills. That the said Aaron R Westbrook sometimes in signing his name left out the R once signed his name Aaron Westbrook That the receipt hereto attached bearing date 13th May 1822 given to Aaron Westbrook and the Bond also hereto attached bearing the name of Aaron Westbrook were given to one and the same person that they were both written by this deponent (next 3 1/2 lines crossed out) That the aforementioned bond was given to the said Aaron Westbrook for the purpose of keeping the said Aaron from becoming a town charge. The word "sometimes" interlined before execution The erasure in the 20, 21, 22, 23 were made before signing
Jas B Armstrong

Sworn to and subscribed this 31st day of December 1849 before me 
John H Nelden
Justice of the Peace
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I certify that I am well acquainted with James B Armstrong who made and subscribing the foregoing affidavit and that his statement therein made are entitled to full credit and belief
John H Nelden Justice of the Peace

(lower left corner written vertically)
Affidavit J B Armstrong
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State of New Jersey
Sussex County..

On this 31st day of December 1849, personally appeared before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County, Nicholas Vannay, a resident of Montague Township in the County and State aforesaid, aged Sixty two years, who being duly sworn according to law doth on his oath depose and say that he was born and has always lived in the neighborhood where he now lives. That he was acquainted with Aaron Rose Westbrook, sometimes called Aaron Westbrook, from his earliest recollection. That this deponent further says that he was present at the time that he applied for a pension [crossed out: and that he knew him to be in the receipt of a pension at the time of his death.] This deponent, at the time that Westbrook declared for a pension, lived a near neighbor to him. This deponent further saith that he know of no other person by the name of Aaron Rose or Aaron Westbrook.
s/ Nicholas Vannay

The erasures made in the 16th & 17th lines [crossed out: (illegible)] before signing. Sworn to and subscribed the day and year above written before me.
s/ John H. Nelden
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I certify that I am acquainted with Nicholas Vannay, who made and subscribed the foregoing affidavit and that his statement herein made are entitled to full credit and belief.
s/ John H. Nelden, Justice of the Peace

STATE OF NEW JERSEY.
I, CHARLES G. McCHESNEY, Secretary of State of the State of New Jersey, do hereby certify that John H. Nelden, Esquire, before whom the within affidavits were taken, was at the time of the doing thereof a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Sussex in said state, duly commissioned and sworn; that full faith and credit are to be given to his official attestations, and that the signatures thereto are in the proper handwriting of the said John H. Nelden.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand and affixed my Seal of Office at Trenton in said State this Eleventh day of January A.D. one thousand eight hundred and [crossed out: forty] fifty.
s/ Charles G. McChesney, Sec(retary) of State
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No. 20217
Aaron Westbrook, Sussex County, New Jersey.

Returned.

7 mos. Private.
23.33
Hon. P. Dickerson, H.R.

J.E. Edsall, Clk. Sussex County, New Jersey.
Newton
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WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
5th June 1833.

Sir:

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

A statement, shewing the service of Aaron Westbrook, Sussex County, New Jersey.

Period when the service was rendered. | Duration of the claimant's service. (Years/Months/Days) | Rank of the claimant. | Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served. | Names and Rank of the General and Field officers. | Battles in which the applicant was engaged. | Country through
which he marched. | Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at the present period. | Evidence by which the declaration is supported.

Vol(unteered) March 1776 | (blank) | 1 | (blank) | Lieut(enant) | Cap. Horn | (blank) | (blank) | Marched to New York | 78 years, Montague, Sussex County, New Jersey | 3 living witnesses certified credible by the Judge. The applicant unable to appear in Court as per Judge's Certificate. No Clergyman & no reason given. Papers not properly attached. |
Vol(unteered) 1776 | (blank) | 5 | (blank) | Lieut(enant) | Cap. Shimer | Col. Johnson | (blank) | Long Island |
Vol(unteered) 1777 | (blank) | 1 | (blank) | Lieut(enant) | Cap. Horn | (blank) | (blank) | (Marched to) Flatbush, Long Island
Vol(unteered) 1778 | (blank) | 2 | (blank) | Lieut(enant) | (blank) | Major Westbrook | (blank) | Marched to Fort Washington, White Plains to Fort Lee
Vol(unteered) 1779 | (blank) | 2 | (blank) | Lieut(enant) | (blank) | Major Westbrook | (blank) | 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I, __________, of the Court of __________ do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of
__________ for a pension.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person...
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3

...will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.

The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.

1. Where and in what year were you born?
2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?
4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.
6. //
To a soldier. // Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it?
To an Officer. // Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant. The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons - one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from
their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.

The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the inquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.

Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.

Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.

No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.

[a] The declarant appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:

"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that by reason of old age, and in the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection he served not less that the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades: __ For ______ year ________ months, and ________ days, I served as a ________; and for such service I claim a pension."

It is important , in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase, "about three or four months," is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that was the either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.

[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.

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

Proof of Service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.

(Illegible) The notes from [a] to [i] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule (illegible) note [j] applies to continental troops only. 

[k] This traditionary evidence is indispensable in militia cases. 
[l] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact. 
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration:
Page 24

Sir,

I herewith return the papers of Aaron Westbrook and believe that my thing has now been done, which is necessary in order to entitle him to a pension as a lieutenant in the militia. The only objections as I understand from this paper were that there was no Certificate of Clergyman nor any reasons why it was not obtained. 2nd that the papers were not properly attached. Both these objections are now removed by the certificate of the credible witnesses & the certificate of the Judge that a Clergyman could not be obtained to certify without too much inconvenience and expense to the applicant. The first objection is obviated & the papers being attached in the manner as now sent removes the second objection. You will therefore oblige me by sending to me the necessary vouchers, papers or documents, which will make this poor solder to receive his pension without loss of time.

Very respectfully,
s/ Wm. T. Anderson
Newton, N.J. Oct. 5, 1833

J.L. Edward, Esq.
Page 25

January 5, 1938

BA-J/EEL
Aaron Westbrook-S.1146

Mr. William E. Westbrook
Jefferson Barracks
Saint Louis, Missouri

Dear Sir:

Reference is made to your letter in which you request the record of Aaron Rose Westbrook, who served as lieutenant in the New Jersey troops, War of the Revolution and died in Sussex County, New Jersey, August 4, 1834.

The data which follow were obtained from the papers on file in Revolutionary War pension claim, S.1146, based upon the military service in that war of Aaron Westbrook.

Aaron Westbrook (the name appears, also, as Aaron Rose Westbrook) was born in Montague Township, Sussex County, New Jersey. The date of his birth and names of his parents are not shown. Soldier stated that his birth was recorded in the Book of Baptisms of the Dutch Reformed Church at Minnisink, New Jersey.

Aaron Westbrook entered the service, while residing in said Sussex County, New Jersey, in March, 1776, and served at various times, until 1779, amounting to eleven months in all, as lieutenant under Captain Samuel Hover and Abraham Shimer, Major Westbrook (no relationship shown) and Colonels Rosekranz and Johnson in the New Jersey troops. He was in the battle of Flat Bush. He continued to serve until the close of the war as lieutenant, frequently taking command of scouting parties out against the Tories and Indians on the frontiers.

He was allowed pension on his application executed September 17, 1832, at which time he was aged seventy-eight years and resided in Montague Township, New Jersey, where he had always resided.

His wife's name was Sarah, but there are no further data in regard to her...
Page 26

...Aaron Westbrook died August 4, 1836. He left no widow.

In 1849, his only heir, a son, Alexander Westbrook, aged sixty-three years, resided in Montague Township, Sussex County, New Jersey.

In 1832, Captain John (J. or I.) Westbrook lived in Sussex County, New Jersey; no relationship to Lieutenant Aaron Westbrook shown.

Very truly yours

A.D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator.
Page 27

New Jersey | No. 28,190

Aaron Westbrook of Montague in the State of New Jersey, who was a private in the comp(any) commanded by Captain Shimer of the reg(iment) commanded by Col. Johnson in the N.J. Troops line for 7 months.

Inscribed on the Roll of New Jersey at the rate of 23 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 4th day of April 1834 and [sent to] Hon. P. Dickerson.

Arrears to the 4th of Mar. 1834.........69.99
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Sep........11.66
                                        =====
                                        81.65

{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.}

Recorded by R. Burdine
Book E; Vol. 3; Page [illegible]
Page 28

State of New Jersey
Sussex County//

Personally came before me the subscriber, of the Judges of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas in & for said County, William Cartright of full age, who being duly sworn according to law on his oath saith that he is personally acquainted with Lieut. Aaron Westbrook of Montague, Sussex County, New Jersey, and believes him to be of the age of Seventy Eight years and that he was well acquainted with the said Aaron Westbrook during the War of the Revolution. That said Aaron Westbrook was out in five months service early in the war. That he acted as lieutenant during the war & that deponent served under him, the said Aaron Westbrook, several expeditions during the war at Lackawackson [Lackawaxen] in Pennpack [Pomonok] & elsewhere & that the said Aaron Westbrook was a brave man and done much towards the protection of the inhabitants from the inhumane butchery & slaughter of the Indians & Tories during the war.
s/ William Cartright

Sworn & Subscribed this 3rd day of October 1832 before me.
s/ James Stott
Page 29

State of New Jersey 
Sussex County//

Personally came before me the subscriber, one of the Judges of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas in and for said County, Joseph Vannoy of full age, who being duly sworn according to law on his oath saith that he is personally acquainted with Aaron Westbrook of Montague in said County and believes him to be of the age of Seventy eight years. That he was well acquainted with said Aaron Westbrook in the War of the Revolution. That he knew him to be in the Army of the Revolution acting as lieutenant as early 1776. That he served one month with him in New York & that he also served one other month with him at Elizabeth Town, New Jersey & that he knew said Aaron Westbrook to be frequently called upon to check progress of the Tories & Indians in their incursions upon our settlement & that he acted in the capacity of lieutenant during the war.
s/ Joseph Vannoy

Sworn & subscribed before at Montague in said County this 17 day of Sep. 1832.
s/ James Stott
Page 30

War Department
Pension Office
26 October 1833

Sir,

The claim of Aaron Westbrook is suspended until he shall give some account of his commission as lieutenant. It is necessary that he should state distinctly on oath when he received the commission, by whom it was signed and what has become of it. The rank of officer cannot be admitted unless the best evidence is produced agreeably to the regulations. The witnesses only states that the claimant acted as lieutenant without asserting that he held the commission of that rank.

In the meantime, the papers are...
Page 31

...[duplicate: are] placed on file.

I am respectfully your obed(ient) servant,
s/ J.L. Edwards

W.T. Anderson, Esq.
Newton, N.J.
Page 32

We, Doctor Jacob L. Vandeusen and Major John Hall, residing in Montague hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Aaron Westbrook, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration. That we believe him to be Seventy eight years of age. That he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a Soldier of the Revolution and that he acted in the capacity of a lieutenant and that we concur in that opinion. We do also certify that their is not any Clergyman at present residing in the Township of Montague nor has there been for five years past.
s/ J.L. Vandeusen 
s/ John Hall

Sworn and subscribed this 30 day of September A.D. 1833.
s/ James Stott

I, James Stall, Judge as aforesaid, do hereby certify that it has been made manifest to me that it would for attended with too much inconvenience and expenses to the said applicant to produce before me a Clergyman to certify, as required by the War Department and I do hereby certify that Doctor Jacob L. Vandeusen and Major John Hull, above named, are credible persons.

Given under my Hand & Seal this 30th day of September A.D. 1832.
s/ James Stott
Page 33

New Jersey
Sussex County//

I, Joseph E. Edsall, Clerk of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas in and for said County of Sussex, do hereby certify that James Stoll, Esquire, whose name is subscribed to the foregoing certificates and papers, is now and was at the time of the making of the said application by the said Aaron Westbrook, one of the Judges of the said Court. The same being a Court of Record, duly commissioned and sworn. That true faith and credit is and ought to be given to all his official acts as such. And his signature thereto subscribed is his genuine signature. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and affixed the Seal of my Office at Newton this 4th day of October A.D. 1833.
s/ J.E. Edsall, Clk.
Page 34

Sir,

The enclosed papers have been entrusted to my care. I do they are all right now. And I bring your immediate attention to the necessary remittance so that this old Revolutionary Soldier may be put into the possession of some funds to support him in his very advanced age.

He is very poor and destitute and very infirm without it.

Your mo(st) ob(edient) ser(vant),
s/ Wm.T. Anderson
Newton, N.J. Oct. 5. 1833

J.L. Edwards
Comm(issioner) of Pensions
Page 35

Aaron Westbrook
Declaration & evidence in order to procure a pension.
20217
Page 36

D(ea)r Sir,

I rec(eived) from Wm. T. Anderson, Esq., the enclosed declaration of A. Westbrook and must ask your further action upon his claim. And I am instructed by Mr. Anderson today that if he is not entitled as lieutenant that he should be considered as applying as a common soldier.

I am also requested to inquire as to the application of Joseph Vanauken which was presented in the fall of 1832 and since amended. Please let me know the situation of this claim.

I am yours very respectfully,
s/ Ph. Dickerson
Feb. 26, 1834

J.L. Edwards, Esq.
Page 37

May 10, 1834. Paid to Mar. 4, 1834.

28,190
Page 38

WAR DEPARTMENT.
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIM.

I certify that in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June, 1832, Aaron Westbrook, of the State of New Jersey, who was a Private during the Revolutionary War, is entitled to receive Twenty three dollars and Thirty three cents per annum, during his natural life, commencing on the 4th of March, 1831, and payable semi-annually, on the 4th of March and 4th of September, in every year.

Given at the War Office of the United States, this Fourth day of April one thousand eight hundred and thirty four.
s/ Lewis Cass, Secretary of War

Examined and Countersigned.}
s/ J.L. Edwards. Commissioner of Pensions
Page 39

Abstract of Payrolls Discharged by Joseph Lewis, Paymaster to the Militia of the Counties of Morris, Sussex & Bergen.
No. | Date | Reg(iment) or Bat(talion) | Officers Names | Where Served | Under Whom | £.S.D |
286 | July 8, 1778 | Rosenkrantz, Sebring | Cap. Cortrect | Delaware | Maj. Cortrect |
287 | Sep. 29, (1778) | (Rosenkrantz, Sebring) | (Cap. Cortrect) | (Delaware) | Maj. Westbrook |
288 | Oct. 30, (1778) | (Rosenkrantz, Sebring) | (Cap. Cortrect) | (Delaware) | Maj. Westbrook |

I, Charles G. McChesney, Secretary of State of the State of New Jersey, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true extract from Book 1B of Auditor's Accounts, page 64, as taken from and compared with the original record in my office.

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and affixed my Seal of Office at Trenton this Second day of March One Thousand Eight Hundred and Fifty.
s/ Charles G. McChesney
Sec(retary) of State
Page 40

Washington
Jan. 17/'50

Jas. L. Edwards, Esq.
Com(missioner) of Pensions

Sir,

I have before me a letter from Mr. Alexander Westbrook of New Jersey, the only surviving child of Aaron Rose Westbrook, or Aaron Westbrook, dec(eased), as shown by the evidence herewith submitted.

It is alleged, Aaron or Aaron Rose Westbrook, served in the War of the Revolution as a private and also as a lieut(enant) in the New Jersey service. And that this fact was set forth in his original declaration but was pensioned only as a private under Act 1832 on the New Jersey Roll.

Application is now made for the increase of his late pension on the grounds of his service as a lieut(enant's), claimed I presume, in his original declaration. The evidence of his appointment will be found in the papers filed by me in the case of Mrs. Sarah Van Elten of New York, Act '36 or '38. It is a certificate of the Secretary of the State of New Jersey, upon which the claim of Mrs. Van Elten's was allowed for the appointment and service of her husband as a lieut(enant) in the same service. There is affidavits submitted explaining why the name was written Aaron Westbrook instead of Aaron Rose Westbrook & evidence also. That he was one & the same person. All of which I hope will be satisfactory.

I remain your obed(ient) ser(vant),
s/ Alex Ray
Page 41

Washington
March 4/'50

James L. Edwards, Esq.
Com(missioner) of Pensions

Sir,

In the case of Aaron R. Westbrook, late a pensioner under Act '32, on the New Jersey Roll and the heirs now applying for an increase on account of his service as a lieut(enant), I herewith enclose a certificate from the Secretary of State of New Jersey showing Capt. Cortrect, under who he served, has paid for these services of his company in July, Sep. and Oct. 1778, which I hope was proven satisfactory.

I remain yours most respectfully,
s/ Alex. Ray
Page 42

New Jersey
Revol(utionary War)
Aaron Westbrook
Suspended

See letter (to) Wm. T. Anderson 26 Oct. 1833.

Ans(wer) Hon. P. Dickinson, Mar. 17, 1834.

Act 7 June 1832.
Page 43

8 May 1826
Aaron Westbrook
Note $3.63

A. Westbrook
Note $3.63
Page 44

Due Armstrong & Foster on loan three dollars and sixty three cents on settlement having been without defaultification or discount as witness my Hand this 8th day of May 1826.
s/ Aaron Westbrook
Page 45

INVALID.
Rev(olutionary) War
File No. 1146.
Aaron Westbrook
Lieut(enant) N.J. Mil(itia)
Act: June 7, 1832.
Index: -; Vol. A; Page 397
{Arrangement of 1870.}
Page 46

1894 Jan. 23 - Hist(ory sent) to C.H. Winfred, Jersey City [N.J.]
Mar. 31, '94 - Copy of appl(ication sent to) Hon. John R. McPherson.
Sep. 21/'57 - Letter (sent) to Hon. Jomes Smith, Jr., U.S. Senate.
1929 Oct. 29 - Hist(ory sent) to Mrs. Jay D. Northup. E.E.L.
1938 Jan. 5 - Hist(ory sent) to Wm E. Westbrook. E.L.
Page 47

Personally came before me the subscriber, one of the Judges of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas in and for said County, Captain John J. Westbrook of full age, who being duly sworn according to law on his oath saith that he is personally acquainted with Lieutenant Aaron Westbrook of Montague, Sussex County, New Jersey, and believes him to be of the age of Seventy eight years. That he was well acquainted said Aaron Westbrook in the War of the Revolution. That he knew him to be in the Army of the Revolution, acting as lieutenant as early as 1776. That he recollects his being in five months service in that year in New York. The deponent perfectly recollects being out in the service with the said Aaron Westbrook on the Lackawackson [Lackawaxen] & in other places. That the said Aaron Westbrook was a brave man & a good friend to his County & was always ready & willing to perform his duty in all cases of emergency.
s/ John T. Westbrook (X - his mark)

Sworn & subscribed before me at Montague in said County this 19 day of Sep. 1832.
s/ James Stott
Page 48

OFFICE OF DISTRICT ATTORNEY
HUDSON COUNTY, N.J.

CHARLES H. WINFIELD, DISTRICT ATTORNEY.
Jersey City, Dec. 9, 1893

My Dear Senator,

Will you do me the favor to serve this note to the proper person for answer to my request for information on the following.:

Aaron Rose Westbrook was a soldier of N.J. in the American Revolution. I should like to know of his name appears in the records of the government. If so, I want a copy of that record. An early answer would greatly favor.

Yours truly,
s/ C.H. Winfield
Page 49

Chief on O.W. & N. Div(ision).

Please furnish Sturgot/Seuaten McPherson a full copy of the Petition for Pension referred with & the enclosed letter.
s/ Wm. Lockren, Comm(issioner)
Mar. 27, 1894.
Page 50

District Attorney's Office, HUDSON COUNTY, N.J.
CHARLES H. WINFIELD, Dist. Attorney.

Jersey City, Jan. 27, 1894

Wm. Lockren, Esq., Commissioner of Pensions &c.

Dear Sir: 

Accept my thanks for your reply to my former inquiry concerning the revolutionary record of my grandfather, Aaron (or Aaron Rose) Westbrook.

His application for pension, I see, was made in September 1832.

Will you do me the favor to send me a copy of that application, as there must be in it a statement of facts which I need.

Yours truly,
s/ C.H. Winfield
Page 51

OFFICE OF THE PROSECUTOR OF THE PLEAS.
HUDSON COUNTY, N.J.

CHARLES H. WINFIELD, PROSECUTOR OF THE PLEAS.

Jersey City, Feb. 7, 1894

My Dear Senator,

I send you my letter to the Comm(issioner) of Pensions & his reply, which explain themselves. By his reply to my request enough you I find that my grandfather was in the Battle of Long Island. In his petition for a pension filed in 1832, there must be facts which I need but it is impossible for me to state what they are, as this comm(issioner) requests. If I knew what fact I wanted, I would not want it. I want, in my preparation of my genealogy, the whole petition, as I do not doubt but it states facts of which I am entirely ignorant, yet very much need. I regret to trouble you but I do not know how to get what I want except thro(ugh) you. Will you get it for me?

Yours truly,
s/ C.H. Winfield
Page 52

MRS. JAY D. NORTHRUP
60 ADDISON AVENUE
RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY

Re: Revolutionary War

Commissioner Bureau of Pensions
Washington, D.C.

Dear Sir,

Do your records show service of Aaron Rose Westbrook, Second Lieutenant, Captain Henry W. Cortright's (Cortwright's) Company of the 3rd Battalion, Sussex County, New Jersey Militia, in the Revolutionary War.?

I would greatly appreciate it if you will send me any information you might have.

Thanking you I am yours very truly,
s/ Pearl Winfield Northrup
(Mrs Jay D.)
Page 53

Rev. and 1812 Wars Section. KEL

October 29, 1929

Mrs. Jay D. Northrup
60 Addison Avenue
Rutherford, New Jersey,

Dear Madam:

I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, S.1146, it appears that Aaron Westbrook (the name also appears as Aaron Rose Westbrook) was born in Montague Township, Sussex County, New Jersey, date not given. He stated that his age was recorded in the Book of Baptisms of the Dutch Reformed Church at Minnisink, New Jersey.

He served from March, 1776, until 1779, at various times, amounting to eleven months in all as Lieutenant under Captains Emanuel Hover and Abraham Shimer, Major Westbrook and Colonels Rosekranz and Johnson in the New Jersey Militia; he was in the battle of Flat Bush.

He continued to serve during the war as a Lieutenant frequently taking command of scouting parties out against the Tories and in protecting the frontiers from the attacks of the Indians.

He was allowed pension on his application executed...
Page 54

...September 17, 1832, at which time he was seventy-eight years old and a resident of Montague Township, New Jersey, where he always lived.

His wife's name is given as Sarah, but her maiden name and the date of their marriage are not shown.

He died August 4, 1834, leaving no widow, and but one heir, a son, Alexander Westbrook, who in 1849, was aged sixty three years and a resident of Montague Township, Sussex County, New Jersey.

Very truly yours,

EARL D. CHURCH
Commissioner.

In 1832, Captain John (I. or J.) Westbrook lived in Sussex County, New Jersey; no relationship to Lieutenant Aaron Westbrook shown.
Page 55

[illegible] and N. Division

Department of the Interior,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D.C., Jan. 1894

Sir,

In reply to your request for a statement of the military history of Aaron Westbrook or Aaron Rose Westbrook, a soldier of the Revolutionary War, you will please find below the desired information as contained in his application for pension on file in this Bureau.

DATES OF ENLISTMENT. | LENGTH OF SERVICE. | RANK. | OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. (CAPTAIN/COLONEL) | STATE.
March 1776 | 1 mo. | Lt. | Emanuel Horn | Rosecranz | N.J. |
May 1776 | 5 mos. | Lt. | Abraham Shurn | Johnson | N.J. |
1777 | 1 mo. | Lt. | Emanuel Horn | Maj. Westbrook | N.J. |
1778 | 2 mos. | Lt. | Cortright | Maj. Westbrook | N.J. |
1779 | 2 mos. | Lt. | Cortright | Maj. Westbrook | N.J. |

Battles engaged in, Long Island in N.Y.
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Montague, Sussex Co., N.J.
Date of application for pension, September 1832.
Residence at date of application, Montague, N.J.
Age at date of application, 78 years & he died August 4, 1834.
Remarks: Both of above names were used & applied to him.

Very respectfully,
s/ (blank)
Commissioner.

C.H. Winfield, Esq.
Jersey City
Hudson County N. J.

7941b-3m
Page 56

Feb. 2, 1894. Wrote C.H. Winfield, Jersey City, N.J., that copies of the papers could not be furnished but if he would state what facts he wished to ascertain an examination of the papers would be made and he would be supplied with the desired information if contained in the papers.
s/ F.S.
File
Page 57

This Bureau can furnish the military record of only such Revolutionary soldiers as were pensioned or whose widows were pensioned for their services. Such of the original muster and pay rolls of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 as are now in the possession of the Government are on file in the Record and Pension Office, War Department. Original rolls and other records pertaining to service in the Revolutionary War may also be found on file in the archives of many of the original States.

M.E.C. | L.B.
Inv. 1,146.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
WASHINGTON, D.C.,
September 21, 1897.

O. W. & N. DIV.
REVOLUTIONARY.

Sir:

Replying to your request that copies of certain affidavits and the papers on file in the pension claim of Aaron Westbrook, a soldier of the Revolutionary war, be furnished Charles H. Winfield, of Jersey City, N. J., I have the honor to advise you as follows:

It appears that under date of January 23, 1894, a statement of the above named soldier's service, as shown by the papers on file in his claim for pension, was furnished Mr. Winfield, and on March 31, a copy of the soldier's application was furnished him through Hon. John R. McPherson.

There is no appropriation by Congress for carrying on work of this character, but in order that as a matter of courtesy some attention may be given to the numerous inquiries regarding Revolutionary soldiers, four clerks have been taken from their regular duties and assigned to this work, but this small force is totally inadequate to enable the Bureau to longer even comply with requests for copies of applications which are of frequent occurrence...
Page 58

...therefore, a compliance with your request for copies of affidavits and papers on file in the claim must be declined. This Bureau regrets that it is not in a condition to comply and assures you that if it had a larger clerical force at its command it would take pleasure in furnishing the desired copies.

If Mr. Winfield will designate a responsible person he will be allowed, on the presentation of this letter, to examine the claim and make copies of such affidavits as are desired. A very careful examination of the papers on file in the claim fails to reveal a certificate of the soldier's baptism.

Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

Hon. James Smith, Jr.
United States Senate.
Page 59

This Bureau can furnish the military record of only such Revolutionary soldiers as were pensioned or whose widows were pensioned for their services. Such of the original muster and pay rolls of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 as are now in the possession of the Government are on file in the Record and Pension Office, War Department. Original rolls and other records pertaining to service in the Revolutionary War may also be found on file in the archives of many of the original States.

M.E.C.
Inv. 1,146.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
WASHINGTON, D.C.,
September 21, 1897.

O. W. & N. DIV.
REVOLUTIONARY.

Sir:

Replying to your request that copies of certain affidavits and the papers on file in the pension claim of Aaron Westbrook, a soldier of the Revolutionary war, be furnished Charles H. Winfield, of Jersey City, N.J., I have the honor to advise you as follows:

It appears that under date of January 23, 1894, a statement of the above named soldier's service, as shown by the papers on file in his claim for pension was furnished Mr. Winfield, and on March 31, a copy of the soldier's application was furnished him through Hon. John R. McPherson.

There is no appropriation by Congress for carrying on work of this character, but in order that as a matter of courtesy some attention may be given to the numerous inquiries regarding Revolutionary soldiers, four clerks have been taken from their regular duties and assigned to this work, but this small force is totally inadequate to enable the Bureau to longer even comply with requests for copies of applications which are of frequent occurrence...
Page 60

...therefore, a compliance with your request for copies of affidavits and papers on file in the claim must be declined. This Bureau regrets that it is not in a condition to comply and assures you that if it had a larger clerical force at its command it would take pleasure in furnishing the desired copies.

If Mr. Winfield will designate a responsible person he will be allowed, on the presentation of this letter, to examine the claim and make copies of such affidavits as are desired. A very careful examination of the papers on file in the claim fails to reveal a certificate of the soldier's baptism.

Very respectfully,
s/ H. Cluey Evarret, Commissioner

Hon. James Smith, Jr.
United States Senate.
Page 61

O. W. & N. Div.
F. S.
M. E. C.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D.C., April 2, 1894.

Sir:

In compliance with your personal request of the 27th ultimo, I have the honor to transmit her with a copy of the application for pension of Aaron Westbrook, a soldier of the Revolutionary War.

Very respectfully,
s/ (blank)
Commissioner.

Hon. John R. McPherson,
United States Senate.
Page 62

O. W. & N. Division.
F.S.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
WASHINGTON, D.C.,
February 2, 1894.

Sir:

Referring to your request for copies of the pension papers of your Revolutionary ancestor, Aaron Westbrook, whose military history has already been furnished you, I have to advise you that owing to the large number of similar requests the Bureau has been obliged to decline to furnish such copies, on the ground that it would interfere to too great an extent with its regular work.

If you will kindly state the fact which you wish to ascertain an examination of the papers will be made and if the same is contained therein the Bureau will supply you with a statement giving the desired information.

Very respectfully,
s/ Wm. Locksen
Commissioner.

C.H. Winfield, Esq.,
Dist. Attorney,
Jersey City, N.J.
Page 63

Jefferson Barracks
St. Louis, Missouri
December 27, 1937

Veterans Administration
Washington, D.C.

E.E.L. Hist.

Dear Sirs:

Revolutionary War Record

When convenient, I should like to have the military record, and the members of his family if they appear, for:

Aaron Rose Westbrook who served as a Lieutenant in the Sussex County and New Jersey State Troops from 1776 to the end of the war. Born about 1754; resident of Sussex County, N. J., and died there August 4, 1834.

Yours very truly,
s/ William E. Westbrook