Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 899, Matthew Bussell, Va. Va. Sea Service
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VA Bussell, Matthew W.899
Va. Sea Service or Mathew B.L. Wt. 36513-160-55
Fanny
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[LEFT SIDE]
See letters to J.P. Varness Esqr. Pers Agt S. Cole and Pers Agt at Knoxville 
E.T.  20 May 1834

Feby. 26 '45-printed letter clk. of county Spotsylvania 

[RIGHT SIDE]
26749
East Tennessee

Matthew Bussell
of Claiborn in the State of Tennessee who was a private in the [illegible] command by Captain Marcus of the regt. commanded by - in the Virginia line for 18 months prof. act.

Inscribed on the Roll of East Tennessee at the rate of 75 dollars - cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 14 day of May 1834 and R.B. Maury Fredericksburg, Va.

Arrears to the 4th of March    225.00
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Sept   37.50
                                               $262.50

Revolutionary Claim,
Act June 7, 1832

Recorded by Danl. Boyd Clerk
Book E  Vol. 7 Page 37
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Tennessee
Fanny Bussell widow of Matthew Busell who served in the Revoluntary war, as a Private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 75 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension insued the day of July, 1833 and sent to 
F.W. Newman
Knoxville, Te.

Deduct payment at $85 under act 29 J. 48

Per annum

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under Act February 2, 1848, Page 283  Vol. 3

210953
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Act of Mar 3
Sept. 11, 1855

210,953

Fanny Bussell wid
of Matthew Bussell
Priv. of Artillery
Va. Line of Cavalry
War of Revolution

Rev. War

Pension under Act of Feby. 2d 1848
Tenn Feby 48 - 6119

Act 16)KG  July 24/56
B Oynton

Vol. B2-148
James H. Newhart
Knoxville Tenn.

No 36,543
Aug 1st/56
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Shirley Bussell was
born in the year 1811 February 15
Charles Bussell
was born in the year 1815 February 11

James Bussell was born in the year [illegible]
Matthew Bussell was born in the year [illegible] June 14
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[illegible] Bussell Was born in the year of our Lord 1803 March
Nelly Bussell Was born in the year 1804 December 12th - 
Nancy Bussell Was born in the  year 1806 October 13
Sally Bussell was born in the year 1808 February 17 -
Bird Bussell Was born in the year 1810 May 4th
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Seal
[illegible] from [illegible] to you must be [illegible] and [illegible]
_______________
I promise
[illegible]
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Juday Bussell was born in the year 1807 October
William Bussell and his wife Juda was married August 24 1824
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State of Tennessee March Term 1831 Claiborne County County Clerk 
Original Claim 
Declaration in order to be placed on the pension list under the act of 18th March 1818 State of Tennessee Claiborne County 
on this the 23rd day of March 1831, personally appeared in open court, being a court of record for Claiborne County, having the power of fear and imprisonment, Matthew Bussell resident in said County, and about seventy five years of age who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provisions made by the act of Congress of the 18th of March 1818 and the 1st of May 1820 That he the said Matthew Bussell enlisted for the term of two years on the day of      17 under Samuel Denny recruiting officer for the United States Navy wast on board the ship Dragon Capt James Marcum, which sailed in company with the brig Jefferson, the ship Tartan, the Lewis Gally, the Ginny Gally and others the names of which he cannot recollect, and also commanded by Commodore Baron That he served the term of his enlistment on board the said ship, and was discharged at the mouth of the Chickahomany on James River in
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The State of Virginia on this [blank] day of [blank]  17

The precise time he does not recollect, neither does he recollect the precise of his enlistment, being old and frail that he has lost his discharge, that he hereby relinquishes every claim to a pension whatever except the present - that his name is not on the roll of any other state but the state of Virginia, and that the following are the reasons for not making earlier application for a pension,-- that he did not desire a
portion, while he could procure the necessaries of
life without it, and that he did not know
whether he could make the necessary proof, of
his having served as above stated,-- And in
pursuance of the act of 1st of May 1820
I do solemnly swore, that I was a resident Citizen of
the United States on the 18th day of March 1818.
that I have not since that time, by gift, sale
or otherwise disposed of my property, or any part
thereof, with intent thereby to diminish it, or as
to bring myself within the provisions of an act
of Congress entitled an act to provide for
certain persons engaged in the land and naval
service of the United States in the Revolutionary War, passed the 18th day of March 1818 and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property security
or securities, contracts or debts due to me nor have I any income other than what is contained inthe schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed-
Schedule to property, to wit,
17
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" One cow and calf worth~          $5.00
" One bed and furniture worth~ 10.00
" One yearling calf~    ~   ~.           4.00
                                                          _______
                                                          $19.00
that he is a farmer by occupation &
has a very poor land inland at one cent per acre
of his own worth not more than ten or fifteen dollars;
Is now old and very infirm and not able to 
cultivate said farm, and he has a wife about
forty five year old & four small children
living with him, who make out to cultivate
about four acres of said land, from  which he
processes his scarce subsistence -that  he has no body else to assist hm in any way towards 
making a support. That since the 18th of March 1818 little or no change has taken place on my property ,except that about three years ago he lost fourteen head of cattle and three head of horses which died of some distemper
that the most of what was left, which very  little  but little ,has been consumed in the satisfaction of debts which he had contracted without extravagance, but to procure the necessities of life, until he is reduce to his present distressed situation.  This he states is the trust with respect to any change that has taken place in my property since the 18th of March 1818
Matthew Bussell  X his mark

Sworn to in open court
March 23rd 1831
Benj. Cloud Clk.
by Benj. F. Cloud C. Clk.
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The court upon learning the said Mathew Bussell touching the forgoing statement and  schedule  and of opinion the whole are substantially correct, all of which together with the opinion of this court is ordered to be copied and certified to the secretary of war of the United States,- Ordered by the court that it be certified the opinion of this court that the property returned in the schedule of Mathew Bussell at March term 1831 of this court preparatory to his obtaining from the United States is a true account of the property the said Mathew Bussell had and that the value thereof is twenty nine dollars, and that it further appears to the satisfaction of the court that the said Mathew Bussell is a citizen of Claiborne County Tennessee .

State of Tennessee 
I Benjamin Cloud clerk of the court of Pleas and quarter sessions for Claiborne County, do hereby certify, that it appears to the satisfaction of the court, that the said Matthew Bussell did serve in the Revolutionary War, as stated in the preceding declarations, against the common enemy, for the term of nine months, under one engagement on the Continental Establishment. 
I also certify that the forgoing oath and the schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the records of the said court and I do further certify that it is the opinion of the said court that the total amount of the value of the property entitled in the aforesaid schedule is twenty nine dollars
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the [illegible] seal of office having no seal of office in Tazwell the 26th May1831
       Benjamin Cloud  clerk 
[handwritten seal]
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Pension Declaration
Mathew Bussell
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State of Tennessee 
Claiborne County
On this sixth day of December 1833
personally appeared before me Benjamin Sewell, a justice of the  peace  for said county  in said state, Mathew Bussell and relinquishes all claims to a pension or relinquishes all claims to a pension or annuity for his services in the marine of the navy of the State of Virginia during the Revolutionary War, as stated in his declaration which is hereto annexed -and states that he now claims a pension and states that he now claims a pension for his service in the militia of the State of Virginia during the war of the revolution, as stated in his de-
clarion to which this relinquishment is annexed                                           
Matthew Bussell  X his mark
Sworn to signed and                                                          
acknowledged the
date above before me
Benjamin Sewell
a  Justice of the peace
for said County

I Benjamin F. Cloud, Clerk of the Court of Pleas and quarter sessions, for the County of Claiborne in the State of Tennessee, do hereby certify that Benjamin Sewell of said County before whom the above relinquishment was taken is a Justice of the peace for said County - and that full faith and  [obscured] due to his acts as such.
[signature obscured]
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Fanny Bussell 

[illegible] March ,'43
Act 

Rejected, was not a widow at the [illegible] the passage the act of July 1835
See decision of Mr. Ewins with care of Saley White


Alfred Noel 
Red Hill 
Granger Co
Ten.
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6856

Fanny Bussell for a pension 
in right of 
M Bussell dec'd pensioner
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State of Tennessee } County Court 
Claiborne County.      December  Term

On this second day of December one thousand eight hundred and forty four personally approved in open court now in session 
Fanny Bussell before the court held for said county in the Town of Tazewell  aged seventy one years who being sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed the 3rd of March 1843 and the said act reversed and extended the 17th of June 1844 granting a pension to widows of persons who served during the revolutionary war States the she is the widow of one Mathew Bussell who was a soldier of the revolution she believes in the Marine service and was pensioned at the war department at the rate of seventy five dollars per annum and enrolled on the pension role at Knoxville East Tennessee and regularly drew his pension up to the September, before his death by his attorney and she by her attorney, drew the residue as arrearage of pensions due her at the day of his death by her attorney, she thinks he was pensioned in the year 1833 of then she does not recollect exactly it might have been a year sooner or a year later and he died on the thirtieth day of January one thousand eight hundred and forty four all of which she supposes will be seen by his Vouchers on file with the department as well as her own voucher by her attorney who drew the arrearage of pension for
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her; as to the services of her husband [cut off]
cannot make any of the particulars; as they 
were all performed before she became acquainted with him;  but the proofs of which [cut off]
all be found filed with the department on which her said husband was pensioned at the time he received his certificate,
certificate of which was returned to his
pension agent at Knoxville when she received the arrearage spoken of. She states that her name before her marriage to her said husband was Fanny Reynolds 
was born and raised in Spotsylvania County and state of Virginia on Motses [Motts] Run near a place now called Foxes Mines on the south side of Rapohannock River  and was married by one Charles Clark a Methodist preacher who lived in this town of Fredericksburg and as she is informed and believe died in that town
she was married about the first of June 
one thousand seven hundred and ninety one she has not been able to
procure any record evidence from the clerks office of the County she was married in and supposes from the irregularity of preachers in that day making their returns  or from other causes of loss and decay of many of the papers of that office when the Courthouse and clerks office was removed some years ago some of the files was found eaten up by rats and others in a state of decay as she is informed and believes ,but she has been able to furnish her husband family record containing the ages of her children taken from his bible which is hereto affixed and
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marked on each page on the face of thus  A.  She does not know of any living witnesses that was present at her marriage and shall rely on the evidence in proof of the register furnished being genuine and the evidence of Benj. F. Cloud and William Marcum in proof of her character and the opinion here given of the Court to support her claim which is the best testimony she has been able to obtain and feels in hopes will be all sufficient to enable her to obtain her rights.
The Records of the  Court will be seen is hereto affixed;  she further declares that she was married to the said Matthew Bussell on or about the first day of June one thousand seven hundred and ninety one and that her said husband Matthew Bussell died on the thirtieth day of January one thousand eight hundred and forty four;  That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place previous to the first day of January Seventeen hundred and ninety four at her fathers house at the time and place above states.  She further states that she is a widow still.
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court before the Court this 2nd day of December 1844.
Fanny Bussell  X her mark
Jacob Cloud
pro tem
Chairman of the Court
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State of Tennessee
Claiborn County

Personally appeared in open Court William Marcus and B.F. Cloud and made oath in due form of law that they are well acquainted with Fanny Bussell a citizen of said County the present applicant for a pension in right of the services of her deceased husband Matthew Bussell during the war of the revolution.  That she is the widow of the said Matthew Bussell deceased pensioner;  and from our long acquaintance with her and from her good moral character would give full faith and credit to her Statements on oath.  Sworn and subscribed to before the Court this day & year first above written.
Benj. F. Cloud
William Marcus.

Shirley Bussell and James Bussell being duly sworn according to law in open court states that the register or family record of the childrens ages of Matthew Bussel by his wife now a widow Fanny Bussell and who is the present applicant for a pension is the genuine register and record kept by Matthew Bussell in his lifetime and which was taken from his family bible that the bible has been kept by the present affiant and their mother that it is genuine without addition erasure or alteration;  and marked on each page with the letter A and hereto affixed.  Sworn and subscribed to in open Court before the Court this 2d day December 1844.  The handwriting of the
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register or family record has been written by several persons but by whom part was written we do not know some part is in the hand writing of James Bussell and part written by persons known to witnesses. 
Sworn and subscribed in open Court before the court
James Bussell
Shirley Bussell

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter of Fanny Bussell widow and relick[?] of Matthew Bussell deceased pensioner that she is the lawful widow of the deceased pensioner;  is the age she states; and that William Marcum and B.F. Cloud are respectable persons and any statement that they would make on oath is entitled to full faith and credit   we also give further our opinion that James Bussel and Shirley Bussel who has proven the family register or records are respectable persons and from their characters'  their statements is entitled to full faith and credit and that the applicant Fanny Bussel is entitled to a pension according to the acts of Congress of March 3rd 1843 and 17th of June 1844 which has been refer'd to;  in the forgoing investigations
Jacob Cloud
pretem
Chairman of the Court
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And I Thomas S. Johnson Clerk of the County court of the county of Clairborne and state of Tennessee do hereby certify that the forgoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Fanny Bupel for a person in Testimony whereof I have happen to set my hand and official the seal of my office at office in {?} this the 2nd day of December 1844

That J Johnson clerk of the County court of Clairborne County
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State of Tennessee
County of Clayborne  SS

Be it remembered that on this the 29th day of August A.D. 1855, before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county personaly appeared here Fanny Bussell, a resident of said county aged ninty eight years and made oath in due form of law, that she is the widow of Matthew Bussell, the [illegible] person who was a private of cavelry in the "Virginia Line" in the War of the American Revolution'  that in consideration of said service she is now receiving a "Revolutionary Pension" under the Act of Congress of February 2nd 1849 at the Knoxville Tennessee Agency at the rate of seventy five dollars per annum, that she still a widow and has never applied for nor received any land bounty under this or any other act of Congress whatever.
Fanny Bussell X her mark

Charles Bussell
Stephen Overbey

We Charles Bussell and Stephen Overbey residents of Clayborne County in the state of Tennessee upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Fanny Bussell, in our presence, and that we believe, from the appearance and statements of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
Charles Bussell
Stephen Overbey

The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed the day and year
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above written before me; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons;  that the claimant is the identical person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in the claim.
Thos. L Davis J.P.

State of Tennessee
Clayborne County SS
I Thos. J. Johnson Clerk of the County Court of Clayborne County do hereby certify that Thos. L. Davis Esqr. before whome the foregoing declaration and affidavit is sworn to is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county duly commissioned and sworn and the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
Witness my hand and official seal at office in Tazewell Tennessee, this day 3d of September 1855.
Thos. J. Johnson
Clk.
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27,172
Matthew Bussell
Tennessee

fr. 1780 Pr. Artillery
18 mos.

$75

R.B. Maury
Fredericksburg Virginia

[the following is struck through]
Walter R. Evans
Tazewell Tennessee
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WAR DEPARTMENT
Pension Office.


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 compling with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.

A Statement, shewing the Service of Matthew Bussell

Period when the service was rendered.  1779
Period of claimant's service.  2 Years, 0 months, 0 days
Rank of the claimant.  Marine
Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served.  Col. Marcum, Capt. Sam. Denny, Ship Dragoon Va. State Navy & Brig Jefferson commanded by Com. Barron
Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service.  75  Va.
Proof by which the declaration is supported.  Traditionary

Period when the service was rendered.  1781
Period of claimant's service.  1 Years, 6 months, 0 days
Rank of the claimant.  Pr. Arty.
Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served.  Captain Whitehall, Col. Harrison, St. Edmund Brooks, & St. John Brooks
Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service.  -
Proof by which the declaration is supported.  -

The applicant's name does not appear on the Rolls.  He should therefore prove his service as a marine or as an artillery man.  See notes

The service of the applicant is set forth as a private of artillery, not in the militia but belonging to the continental line.  Proof of his service is therefore required.
Jany 8, 1834

I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J.L. Edwards,
Commissioner of Pensions.

[sideways in margin]
I cannot see where they formed these two dates.  AW
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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, mucicians 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
} ss.

On this [space] day of [space] personally appeared (a) before [space] A. B. a resident (b) of [space] in the county of [space] and State, Territory or District of [space] 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)[space], with [space] and served in the [space] (e) regiment of the [space] 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. 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 [space]

Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid. [space] 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 [space] of the Court of [space] do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of [space] for a pension. 

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this [space]

day of [space] & 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 [space] and C. D. residing in (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with [space], who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be [space] 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 [space] and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the [space] and is a credible person, and that their statement [illegible] to credit. 

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

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this [space] day of [space] &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
Page 28

3

alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person 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. 

[illegible] act is required to [illegible] 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 must 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 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 than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades: --For ----- year -------- months, and ---------- days, I served as a -------------. For ------------- 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 [illegible] 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 he was 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.
[THE FOLLOWING (j) IS {BRACKETED} FOR MORE INFORMATION NECESSARY]
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. 

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 in 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 29

July 11, 1934
Matthew Bussell - W.899
BA-8 / AWF

Mrs. Harvey Sands
404 Kingston Street
Lenoir City, Tennessee

Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request information in regard to Matthew Bussle, a Revolutionary Way pensioner of Claiborne County, Tennessee.

The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, W.899, based upon the military service of Matthew Bussell during the war of the Revolution.

The date and place of birth of this soldier are not shown in the claim, nor are the names of his parents stated.

Matthew Bussell (as the name appears in the claim) entered on board the ship "Dragon", Captain James Marcum, in the Virginia State Navy, served two years and was discharged at the mouth of the Chickahominy on the James River. He afterwards served eighteen months in Captain Anthony Singleton's company in Colonel Harrison's Regiment of Continental Artillery. There are no dates of service given.

He was allowed pension on his application executed March 23, 1831, at which time he was living in Claiborne County, Tennessee, aged about seventy-five years.

Matthew Bussell married "about June 1, 1791" in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, Frances or Fanny Rey-
Page 30

nolds; they were married at her father's house, names of her parents are not given. She stated that she was born and reared in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, date of her birth not show.

The solider, Matthew Bussell, died January 30, 1843 or 1844. His widow, Frances or Fanny Bussell, was allowed pension on her application executed December 2, 1844, at which time she was living in Tazewell, Claiborne County, Tennessee, and gave her age, seventy one years. In 1855 she was living in the same place and stated that she was ninety eight years old. She died October 29, 1857.

The following family data are furnished you, as found in the claim.

First child (female) born dead, no date
John Bussell " October 1793"
Robert Bussell December 12, 1794
Wilson Bussell Feburary (last day) 1796
----- Bussell February 1, 1800
William Bussell March 1, 1803
Nelley Bussell December 13, 1804
Nancy Bussell October 13, 1806
Sally Bussell February 17, 1808
Bird Bussell May 4, 1810
Shirley Bussell February 15, 1811
Charles Bussell February 14, 1815
Matthew Bussell June 14, 1819
James Bussell April --, 1822
Juda or Juday Bussell October --, 1807
married William Web Bussell, August 24, 1824

In 1844 Shirley and James Bussell were residing in Claiborne County, Tennessee, as was Charles Bussell in 1855.

Very truly Yours,
A.D Hiller
Assistant to Administrator
Page 31

[illegible]
Bussell
his hand
per

50
50
60
____
160

160
350(21
Page 32

[illegible]
Page 33

This the 26th day of April 1842
James Bussell
[illegible]
Page 34

7598
Page 35

State of Tennessee  Claibourn County
Declaration in order to obtain the Benefit of the act of the 4th of July 1836 and the act of 1843.  This day personally appeared before me James  Check Fanny Bussell and made oath in dur form of law that she is the identical widow of Matthew Bussell who was a Revolutionary pensioner of the United States and that her marriage took place previous to the year 1794 and that her husband Matthew Bussell died on the 30th day of January 1843 and that she has not inter married but continues to be the widow of the above named Matthew Bussell.  
Fanny Bussell   X her mark

Sworn to and subscribed to before me this the 25th day of December 1849.
James Check
Justice of the peace for said County

State of Tennessee Claibourn County
I James Check an acting Justice of Peace for Claibourn County do hereby certify that from bodily infirmities that she is not able to attend a court of record and that she is a woman of Truth and Verasity.  Given under my hand and seal this the 25th day of December 1849
James Check
Justice of the Peace for Cy.

State of Tennessee Claibourn County
I Thomas J. Johnson Clerk of the county court for Claibourn County do hereby certify that the Justices name that appears to the above certificates is know and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace duly commissioned and qualified the law of sd. state to administer oaths given under my hand and seal of
Page 36

office at office in Tazewell this 25th day of December 1849.
Thos. J Johnson Clk.

[SEAL-illegible]
Page 37

State of Tennessee Claibourn County
Personally appeared before me James Check an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county James Nunn and made oath that he was acquainted with Mathew and Fanny Bussell and has been for many years, that he first became acquainted with them in the state of Virginia previous to the year of 1793.  This affiant states that he removed from Va. in the fall of 1793 and they were then married .
James Nunn
Sworn to and subscribed this 25 day of December 1849.
James Chick
Justice of the peace for sd. Cty.

I certify that I am personally acquainted with the above affiant and that he is a person of credit and veracity.  Given under my hand this 25 day of December 1849.
James Chick a
Justice of the peace for Cty.

State of Tennessee Claibourn County
I Thomas J. Johnson Clerk of the county court in and for the county and state aforesaid do certify that James Chick Esquire whose name appears to the foregoing affidavit is know and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, that full faith is due all his auficial acts as such that his signature appears to be genuine.  Given under my hand and seal of office at office in Tazewell this 25th day of December 1849.
Thos. J. Johnson 
Clk.
Page 38

State of Tennessee Claibourn County
Personally appeared before me James Chick an acting Justice of the Peace in an for said County Aquilla Jones and made oath that he was acquainted with Matthew and Fanny Bussell and has been for many years that he first became acquainted with them in the state of Virginia in the year 1793 that they were then married and had two children he further states that  the data by which he  can affix the time with precission is as follows he removed from Va. and in the year 1793 went back on business and staid some days at Bussells that they then had two children.  Aquilla Jones Sr.
Sworn to and subscribed this 25 day of December 1849 before me
James Chick
Justice of the peace for C. Cty.

I certify that I am personally acquainted with the above affiant and that he is a person of credit and verasity.  Given under my hand this 25th day of December 1849.
James Chick
Justice of the peace for C. Cty.

State of Tennessee  Claibourn County
I Thomas J Johnson Clerk of the county court in and for the county and state aforesaid do certify that James Chick Esquire whose name appears to the foregoing affidavits is know and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for sd. County that full faith is due all his auficial acts as such that his signature appears to be genuine 
given under my hand and seal of office at office in Tazewell this 25th day of December 1849
Thos. J. Johnson
Clk.
Page 39

Rutledge Te.
March 16

James L. Edwards Esqr.
Commr. of Pensions
Washington City DC

Mar 24/47
[illegible]
Fanny Bussell
Page 40

15th March 1847

Sir
Inclosed is the additional evidence of James Chick Esqr. in the case of Fanny Bussell which I hope will be satisfactory.  it was taken in an awkward manner but perhaps you can understand it.
When you examine it direct your answer to Beans Station Grainger County Tennessee.
I am respectfully your Obdt Servant
James K. McAnally

J.L. Edwards Esqr.
Page 41

Oct 10 46

10c

Fanny Bustle
Tenn

J L Edwards Esqr
Washington City
D.C.
Page 42

September 29th 1840

Sir

Fanny Bustle (or Bussel) widow of Matthew Bussell Dec'd a Revolutionary Pensioner late of Claibourne County Tennessee called on me requesting assistance to get on the Pension Roll  she says D. Niel undertook to get on the list but he is since dead.  I want you if you please to inform me what evidence it is yet necessary to make to procure her pension.
Respectfully Your Obdt.
Servant &c
James K. McNally

J L Edwards
Page 43

Wm. Heiskill
29 Augt 1852

O.C.
Recorded, page 251
Vol: 7
Page 44

War Dept.
Pension Office
29 August, 1832

Sir

The papers on file here, in the case of Mathew Bustle (or Bussell) are not sufficient to authorize the placing him on the Pension Roll, under the Act of 7 June 1832.  In order to substantiate his claim, he must strictly adhere to the enclosed regulations.  His name does not appear upon our Rolls of Revolutionary Service
I am &c

Date 10 Augt
Recd 25 Augt

William Heiskell Esqr.
Rose Hill Va.
Page 45

6 June

[Vertical]
1538
Free
To the Honbl Secretary
War Office United States
Washington City

[Upside down]
P. Office
voucher 9 July 1831

[Stamp]
TAZEWELL
MAY
27
Page 46

Matthew Bussell
Rev. Tennessee
Rejected.  See letter to Benj. Cloud June 9 1831
See letter to Wm. Heiskell 29 August 1833


35,573
Page 47

[page is blank]
Page 48

We the Citizens of Claiborne County Tennessee introduce Matthew Bussell to the Citizens of Essex County Virginia as a man of Honesty and Integrity as far as we know - and further we have been acquainted with the sd. Bussell for several years back 0 and he stands among us as a man of truth and verasity.
In testimony where of we place our names with our own hands March the 22d 1834

James Chick
Gray Garrett
Benjamin Cloud
Robert Crocket
Page 49

amount of money bestowed to Mr. Matthew Bussell to defray his expense on his Jorney 
1834 Apr 11
Jesse  Fletcher
$00 25


Call on Henry O Middleton
He will aid you
Page 50

State of Virginia
     County

This day personally appeared before me          a Justice of the peace for said county,                a citizen of said State and made oath that he is acquainted with Mathew Bussell, now a citizen of Claiborne County, that he was personally acquainted with said Mathew Bussell in the year                     , That said Bussell was then a citizen of the State of Virginia, and that his acquaintance with the services of said Bussell as a soldier of the Revolution is as follows, to wit:
Page 51

And I the said                Justice of the peace for said County, do hereby declare my opinion that                       whose name is signed to the above certificate is a citizen of this State and County, and is a credible person and that his statement is entitled to credit.

Justice of the peace for            County, Virginia


I                 Clerk of the            Court of               County, State of Virginia, do hereby certify that                  whose name is signed above as a Justice of the peace for said County, is an acting Justice of the peace for said County and that his acts as such are entitled to credit.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand a affixed my public seal of office, at office, in            , the       day of                in the year of our Lord 1834.
Page 52

Red Hill Post Office
Grainger County E. Ten
10th of Decr. 1844

Dear Sir
I enclosed the Declaration of Fanny Bussell for a pension in right of the services of her deceased husband Matthew Bussell who was a pensioner made in open Court.  You will please give as early an investigation as practicable and please send the certificate if allowed directed to me at this office.  I have no doubt the decision will be favorable.  Send the answer to me at this office.
Very Respectfully
Your most obedient servant
Alfred Noel

J L Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
City of Washington
Page 53

P.S.  Mrs. Bussell resides in Claiborne County and her business was investigated in that Court
Yours Truly
A. Noel
Page 54

State of Tennessee
Grainger County
Red Hill Post Office Sep'r. 14th 1845

Dear Sir
I write for information in relation to the case of Fanny Bussell widow and relick of Matthew Bussell Deceased pensioner I think of the marine service; Tho have not the brief by me';  But the facts are these I drew up her Declaration in January last I think in open Court and had her case satisfactoryly investigated before the Court;  and all the evidence she could produce family record &c properly proven;  and I conclude the evidence was conclusive in her favor had her papers all properly certified according to the rules of the department;  and sent [illegible];  Now 8 or nine months since;  I have rec'd no answer in relation to the case;  If the case has been allowed and overlook'd or whatever has been done pleas inform me at this office as early as practicable as the old lady is entitled;  a good case and is really suffering;  pleas give the information required or certificate if allow'd and confer a favour on your friend.
Alfred Noel Agent
& attorney for the Applicant
Page 55

State of Virginia
Spotsylvania County Sct.
I Stapleton Crutchfield Clerk of the County Court of Spotsylvania in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that I have made diligent search in my Office for the certificate of Marriage return and Bond, of Matthew Bussell and Fanny Reynolds, and that it can not be found.  I do further certify that during the Removal of the Courthouse of said County in the year, Eighteen hundred and thirty eight, a great many papers, particularly of that discription were found entirely distroyed by the moth and mole.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of my office to be hereto annexed, this 13th day of November A.D. One thousand eight hundred and forty six, and the 71st year of the Commonwealth.
Sta. Curtchfield Clk
Said Court

[SEAL-illegible]
Page 56

State of Tennessee Claibourn County Tazewell
December the 26th 1849
To the Honorable Commissioner of Pensions

Dear Sir  
I here with inclose the Declaration of Miss Bussell I hope you will examin the proof on file in your office as thare has been proof made by some two of three other attorneys and the proof that [illegible] to her Declaration and if in your judgement you should think the proof sufficient you will pleas as early as posible Direct her certificate to me Tazewell Tennessee and I rote to your Hon to send me list of some of the names of the officers and soldiers that is intitled bounty land for Revolutionary service.

You will pleas answer me as early as you in the case of Mrs. Bussell.

I am very Respectfully
your Obedient Servant

Danl. B. McVay

To J.L. Edwards Esquire
Page 57

Rutledge Tenn
Sep 14

free

Col JL Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City DC

Sept 23 47
[illegible]
Fanny Bussell
Page 58

September the 14th 1847

Sir

Inclosed is the affidavit of James Chick Esqr.  I hope it will deemed satisfactory and if so please send her certificate to my address at Rutledge Tennessee
I am Respectfully your Obdt. servant
James I. McAnally

Col. JL Edwards
Page 59

House of Reps
Decr. 31st 1847

Sir
I send you herewith some additional testimony in the case of Fanny Bussell who is an applicant for a pension under the act of July 1838.  I am acquainted with Henry Williams, whose names appears to one of the certificates, he is a man of truth & entitled to full credit.
Very respectfully
Wm. M. Cocke

P.S. I am requested to ask that this claim may be examined without delay.
Wm. M.C.

]J.L. Edwards
Page 60

House of Reps.
Feb. 2nd 1848

Sir
Enclosed I sent you some additional testimony in the case of Fanny Bussell, an application for a pension, I think under the act of 1838. or it is rather an additional statement of Mr. Joseph Ellise, I am well acquainted with C.W. Lathim and S.M. Epperson, and know them to be men of good character, and entitled to credit.
Very respectfully
Your Obt Servt.
Wm. M. Cocke

Col. J.L. Edwards
Page 61

Oct the 26" 1849
To the Hon commishiner of Pensions
Dear Sir
I know come to the case of Fanny Bussell widow of Mathew Bussell this claim has been applied for by Doc Noel and James R McAnally both of which never offered any other kind of proof than parrole Evidence I know have undertaken for Mis. Bussell and has rote to the clerk of Spotsulvania County Frederick some three letters with a clerk fee enclosed and can not get an answer from him I know that if the clerk could git my letter that I would be able to git a certificate I give this as my reason for knowing that a certificate can be had from the clerk Mr. Crutchfield sent a certificate to Doctor Noel but by eror rote the names Mathew Russell to Fanny Rennels when it should hav been Mathew Bussell to Fanny Rennels this is flaw evidence that it was a mistake of the clerk I have not rote her Declaration nor do not wish to do so until I inquire of your Honor whether or not if I will send you a clerks fee you will rite to the clerk for me the record of her marriage will be found from 1790 up 95 if you will confer this favor on me you will pleas rite to me as soon as this letter comes to hand then I will send her Declaration and
Page 62

a fee for the clerk.  this claimant is intitled to a pension with out any doubt My reason for asking you to rite in my name is that from examining the nap I find it only about eighty miles distance from Washington City to Spotsylvania Fredericks Burg and I think that thare would be no dificulty in giting a letter to go from Washington City to Spotsylvania Fredericks Burg if you will make this application to the clerk you will pleas rite to me as soon as you git this letter
Yours with respect
Danl B McVay
Page 63

Pension Office
March 20th 1850.

Sir:

The additional evidence in the case of Fanny Bussell widow of Mathew Bussell has been received and placed on file with her other papers. 
As the law now stands Mrs Bussell, has no claim to the provisions of the act of 7th July 1838. By a recent decision of the of the Interior, no widow is entitled to the benefits of this act, who was not a widow at the date of its passage. 
It appears from the papers filed in this case that Mrs Bussells husband, died in 1839, she is therefore not embraced by the act of 7th July 1838. There is no law now in force under which we can grant her a pension. 

Very Respectfully
Your Obt St
J L Edwards

Daniel B. McVay, Esq
Seireville,
Tenn.
Page 64

Pension Office
April 12 1850
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 1st you are again informed that Fanny Bussell is not entitled to a pension under the Act of July 7, 1838, and its supplements, for the reason that the Secretary of the Interior has decided that no widow of a Revolutionary soldier is embraced by its provisions, unless she was such at the date of the passage of the Act.  Her husband died, as is alleged, on the 30th of January 1843;  and as she is excluded from the benefits of the law, it is immaterial when her declaration was made and filed.
She may, possibly, establish a claim under the act of July 29, 1848;  If, therefore, she will make a declaration under that act, the printed instructions for doing which are herewith enclosed, on its reception here it will be examined and the result of the examination communicated to you.
I am Very Respectfully
Your Obt. Servt.
J.L. Edwards

D.B. McVey, Esq.
Tazewell, Tennessee
Page 65

State of Tennessee  Claibourn County Tazewell
To the Honorable Commissioner of pensions
Dear Sir
Either my self in filing the Declaration of Fanny Bussell under the act of July 29 1848 have made a mistake or your Honor one if I have rote her name Russell instead of Bussell your Honor will see in my letter dated July the 3th 1850 that I have referred your Honor to the declaration drawn in December 1849 will show that the name is Fanny and Mathew Bussell insted of Russell   I therefore inclose this certificate back to the war office and hope your Honor will change the names send it back to me as soon as it comes to hand this 24th day of July 1850
I am yours with respect
D.B. McVay
Page 66

State of Tennessee Claibourn County Tazewell
August the 24th 1850
To the commissioner of Pensions
Dear Sir
I sent the intended certificate of Fanny Bussell back to your office as the name was rote Fanny Russell insted of Fanny Bussell   I sent it for the purpose of giting the name changed from Russell to Bussell and I have never got an answer from you to know whether it has bin rec'd at your office or not  if it has not bin rec'd at your office you will pleas let me know it and if it has you will sent it to me as early as possible and oblige 
Yours with Respect
I am yours with Respect
Danl. B. McVay

To James L Edwards Esquire
Page 67

State of Tennessee Claibourn County Tazewell Sept the 11th 1850
To the Honorable Commissioner of Pensions
Dear sir  I rec'd the intended certificate of Fanny Bussell dated July the 8" 1850 But her name was rote Fanny Russell instead of Fanny Bussell  I therefore on the 25th day of the same instant inclosed the certificate in a letter and sent it back to your office to git the name of Fanny Russell changed to Fanny Bussell  and I have rote to you heretofore to know whether you rec'd my letter with the certificate in it  and if so you will pleas change the name and send me the certificate as soon as this letter comes to hand
Yours with respect
D.B. McVay

To J.L. Edwards Esquire
Page 68

State of Tennessee Claiborne County
Tazewell Sept the 13th 
50

To the Honerable commissioner of Pensions Dear Sir I have sent the Declaration of Fanny Bussell widow Mathew Russell to your office for County land she being a pensioner her self and her husband being one set fourth his officers himself under act of June 7th 1832 Miss Bussell has not set them fourth in her Declaration but 
she has referred your Honor to Proof on file in your office as she is well authenticated therefore you as having bin the widow of Matthew Russell so I hope you will Examine her declaration and communicate the answer to me as early as possible.

I am your with respect
DB McVay

To JL Edwards Esquire
Page 69

State of Tennessee  Claibourn County Tazewell
December the 8th 1857
I know address your honor apon the pension of Fanny Bussell widow of Mathew Bussell   I filed her claim in December 1849 under act of July 29 1848 and proved her marriage to have taken place before the 1st day  of January 1794 and on the 8" day of july 1850 her certificate under act of the 2nd of February 1848 for seventy five dollars per annum commencing the 4th day of March 1848  this is the question that I propound to your Honor   when I proved her husband Mathew Bussell to have died on the 30" day of January 1843  I wish to know whyis that Fanny Bussell is not entitled to draw the day of her husband death as well as Sarah Hopper widow of Harman Hopper which was [illegible] under the same act of February the 2nd 1848 Sarah Hopper draws 21 55 cents the full pay of her husband Harman Hopper from the last day of February 1844 during her widowhood  you will pleas reexamin the Declaration of Fanny Bussell and correct the erer and if you can not correct it rite to me and explain the reason why she is not intitled to draw from the 30th day of January 1843 when her husband died and why it is that Miss Hopper was entitled under the same act to draw from the last day of Febuary 1844 the time when her husband died  pleas answer this
D.B. McVay
Page 70

State of Tennessee Claiborne County Tazewell
To the Honorable Jas Edwards Esquire
Dear Sir your letter baring date April the 13th 1855 informs me that Mrs Brussell could Establish a claim under act of July 29th 1848 if she would make a Declaration under that act that she could Establish her claim and that your Honor would communicate to me the Result and I filed her Declaration immidiately on the Recpt of your letter and have not got an answer from you I hope you will inform me whether you have Red the papers under act of July 29 1848 or not if so you will pleas communicate to me the Result so soon as this letter Comes to your Honor
I Know I came to an other part Dear Sir I am informed that there has passed a law that gives to the soldiers of 1812 that served six months and longer a bounty land and if so I do not apply to our member for information but I ask your Honor to send me a coppy of the act and oblige yours with Respect
D B McVey
To J L Edwards Esqre
Page 71

Knoxville Tennessee
September the 19th 1852.

Sir;
I wish to know if the Department will not, under the act approved March the 3rd 1851, grant the claim of Fanny Bussell of Claibourn County Tenn, who is now drawing a pension under the provisions of the act of July the 29th 1848, provided, the marriage is established prior to the first day of Jan 1794, the pension commencing 4th of March 1843 and terminating 4th of March 1848. I think that, under the act of Congress 1838, and its supplements, with the explanatory act of March the 3rd 1851 she is entitled to the five years pay mentioned above; provided the marriage is established according to the provisions in the act of 1838
There is a power of Attorney in my favour filed in the Department. Very respectfully
Your ob't s'v't
T. W. Newman
By J. W. Newman

Commissioner of pensions
Washington City D.C.
Page 72

Knoxville Tennessee
Feb. the 14th 1853.

Sir;
Your communication of the 9th of Feb, asking that the claim of Fanny Bussell, widow of Matthew, would be admited under the act of July 3rd 1838 upon the production of marriage prior to the 1st day of Jan. 1794, and in reply, I herewith enclose you the two reports of the Commissioner of Pensions, wich virtuly acknowledged the proof of marriage, but objects to the claim on the grounds that she was not a widow at the date of the Act.
I now demand an examination of all the proof of marriage on file, and, consequently an issuance of a pension certificate to Mrs Bussell for five years pension under the acts of 1838 and its supliments; viz, from 4th of March 1843 to 4th of March 1848.
Very Respectfully
Your ob't Servant
J. W. Newman for
T. W. Newman

J. E Heath, Esq,
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.
Page 73

Pension Office
9 June 1853

Sir
Please state to what time Matthew Bussell was paid - & date of his death - Knoxville Rolls. E. Tenn: Pri: $75.00 pr. Annum Act 7 June 1832 -
Very Resp'y
S. Cole
For Com'r.

Died 30th January, 1844, and paid to his death. F Burt 
Auditor

F. Burt Esq
Third Auditor
Treasury
Page 74

Pension Office
June 18th 1853.
Sir,
The claim of Fanny Bussell widow of Matthew of Tenn: under Acts 3d March 1843, & others is allowed & a certificate will be issued upon the return of the certificate she now holds under the Act of 29th July 1848.
Very respectfully
Your Obt Servt
J P Waldo
Commissioner

Tazewell W Newman Esqr.
Knoxville
Tenn:
Page 75

Brief in the case of Fanny Bussell widow of Matthew
County and State of Tennessee
acts 3 Mch '43, 17 June '44 & 2 Feby '48

Claim, ("original")

Proof exhibited, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband was a pensioner under Act June 7 1832 at $75 per annum (service established in his papers)
He lived until 1844, And under Mr Ewing's decision was refused a pension under the above acts because she was not a widow on the 7 July 1838, she was pensioner in 1850, + On the 3 March

(if for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
1857 Congress passed a law for the benefit of widows who are not such July 7 1838, she now claims to be placed under above Acts, she is entitled + she was pensioned under the Act 29 July 1848

[Signed] Thornton Tiplett
Examining Clerk.

Name and residence of Agent
T. W. Newman Esq
Knoxville
Tenn
Page 76

Pension Agency, Knoxville Tenn. July 12. 1853.

L. P. Waldo Esq.
Dear Sir -
If you will send the pension certificates of Fanny Bussell to T. W. Newman under act of 3d March 1843, and others, I will, before the payment is made, procure and send you the certificate she now holds under the act of 29th July 1848 - She having been paid at this agency up to 4th March 1853.
Your obt. servt -
Isaac Lewis
Pension Agent.
Page 77

State of Tennessee Claibourn County Tazewell
Dear sir I recd your letter this morning informing me that I must inform you where and by whom the Declaration of Fanny Bussell widow and rellect of Matthew Bussell was filed under act of July 29 1949 in 1849 December the 25" I filed her Declaration under the act of March 3rd 1843 and can not see for my life why she is not intitled under that act to a five years Pension but you Rote to me in your letter dated April the 12" 1850 that Fanny Brussell widow of Matthew Brussell was Excluded from the Benefit of acts of 1838 and 1843 because she was not a widow at the date of the passage of the act 1838 I also Rote to your Honor to know whether the Proof was insificent to intitle her to a pension and you answered me that the Proof was sufficent Relitive to the marriage of Mathew and Fanny Bussell you sent me a blank form of the act of July 29th 1848 Rote to me that she should Establish her claim under the act of July 29 1848
Page 78

apon the Rept of your letter I filed the Declaration of Fanny Bussell widow of Matthew Bussell some time in the 1st days of May 1850 - and your Honor informed me that thare was nothing more Required of me to do so the proof had been made and on file in your office you Rote in these words that if she will make a declaration under the act July 29 1848 I will communicate to you the answer I hope your Honor will when you Red this letter dispose of this case and answer my letter as soon as it comes to hand
I am your Obident
Servant
D B McVey
Page 79

No. 9.706
Fanny Bussell
Widow of Matthew
No. 9.706 Tenn
Admd. 3 Mch 1843
17 Jany 1844
Feby 1848
18 mos Pri Arty $75
per annum from
30 Jany 1844
When he died & to which time he was paid.
deduct payments under act 29 July 1848

Cert to
T. W. Newman Esq
Knoxville
Tenn
Page 80

April the first 1850
To the Honorable Commissioner of Pensions Dear sir
We claim under the act of March the 4" 1836 and the act of March 1843 was claim that her Declaration, was drawn up under act of 1836 and previous to the 30th of April 1844 and filed previous to the 4th of March 1845 we claim that she is under the act of March 1836 intitled to all the Benefits of the act of 1836 altho her Husband Mathew Brussell drew a pension up to the 30th day of January 1843 as her Declaration Drawn up in December 1849 we in the Declaration of Fanny Bussell set forth in fair Elligeble words and figurs that she claimed under act of March 1836 also seting forth that Mathew Bussell Husband of Fanny Bussell Died on the 30th day of January 1843 the Point under the act of 1836 in my View is to Prove that the applicant was Married Previous to the first day of January 1794 we think if your Honor is satisfyed from the proof that she was married Previous to the first day of January 1794 that she is intitled to the Benefits of the acts of March 1836 your Honor will Pleas answer this letter as soon as it comes to
Page 81

your Honor will Pleas Rite to me whether the case has been sufficent Evidence adduced to prove that she was married Previous to the first day of January 1794 we claim under act of March 1836 your letter states that Fanny Bussells Husband Mathew Bussell Died in the year 1839 I refer you to the Declaration filed in December 1849 which sits forth that her Husband Mathew Bussell Died January the 30th 1843 you will pleas answer this letter as soon as it comes to hand
I am yours with Respect
D B McVey
Page 82

Knoxville Tenn
July 12th 1853

L. P. Waldo Esq.
My Dear Sir I send you a letter from the pension Agent at this place stating that he will have the certificate of Fanny Bussell returned to your office - you will please send me the certificate, as the Claim is now sedentary and the Certificate will be returned to you as the old Lady live a considerable distance from here and, if very old, well it would save me much Trouble and you Can order the agent at this place to take up the old Certificate as is often the Case
Your Most
Obt Svt &C
Taze, W, Newman
Page 83

Knoxville Tennessee
Sept 5th 1855.

Commissioner of Pensions;
Washington City D.C.
Dr Sir;
Enclosed you will please find the application of Fanny Bussell widow of Matthew Bussell for Land Bounty under Section 2nd act of March 5th, 1855, Revolutionary Clause. When Warrant issued please transmit to me.
Very Respectfully
James W. Newman
Page 84

State of Tennessee Claibourn County Tazewell
March the 7" 1855 To the Honorable Commissioner of Pensions, Dear Sir you Rote to me that you could not make a satisfactory Examination until you Know her Christian name I see from your letter that the Declaration of Mrs. Bussell has been overlooked, or has not Even Reached your office I filed her Declaration in the month of December 1849 and in that Daration she alledges that she is the Widow of Mathew Bussell who drew a Pension of 45 dollars Per annum during his natural life she also shows that her Husband Mathew Bussell Died on the Thirtyeth day of January 1843 and Proves that Mathew Bussell and Fanny or Francis Bussell was married Previous to the year 1794 about the 27" day of December 1849 I mailled to the commissioner of Pensions the Declaration of Francis or Fanny Bussell widow of Mathew Bussell who was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States this Declaration was Directed to James L Edwards Commissioner of Pensions if her Declaration has never Reached you roffice nor the Post office you will Pleas on the Recpt of this letter rite to me with out daly so I can Renew her papers and send them on to you Pleas Rite by the first mail after you Reed this letter

I Rote in a hurry I only Wanted a list of some of the names of the soldiers that was discharged by Congress or served during the war but so far as bounty land claims gos I do not any thing only to show that Fanny Bussell claim is not interduced for a land claim
I am yours with Respect
Danl B McVey
Page 85

State of Tennessee Granger County -
Personally appeared before me Henry Williams an acting justice of the peace, in and for said county, Joseph Ellis aged ___ years and makes oath, that he was well acquainted with Mathew Bussell & Fanny Bussell, in the year 1791 and that they were then married and had Two children. The Said Fanny Bussell is now Trying for a pention, under the act of 1838 -
The data by which we can prefix the time of his acquaintance with them, is because it was the year before he removed from Spotsylvania county Virginia, That he left There in The fall of The year 1792
Joseph Ellis
x his mark
Sworn to and subscribed before me - This 22 of Dec. 1847 - before me Henry Williams 
Justice of peace
Page 86

State of Tennessee Granger County
I Henry Williams do certify that I am well acquainted with Joseph Ellis the foregoing affiant That he is a man of veracity. Given under my hand Dec 22nd 1847 -
Henry H Williams
Justice of peace

State of Tennessee} I Edward Tate Clerk of the
Granger County} County Court for said County do Certify that Henry Williams Esqr whose signature appears to the within Affidavit is an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County duly elected Commissioned and qualified agreeably to the Constitution and laws of the state of Tennessee and that full full faith and credit is and of right should be given to all of his official acts as such And that his name appears in his own proper hand writing.
Witness my hand at office in Rutledge the 23d day of December 1847
Edwd. Tate Clerk
By Wm. T. Tate DC
Page 87

State of Tennessee Grainger County
Joseph Ellis states on oath that he is confident that he left Spottsylvania County Virginia in the month of October 1792 as before stated in his affidavit that is it was Just fifty four years last October since he left there. That Fanny & Matthew Bussell had two children
Sworn and Subscribed this 22nd day of - 
January 1848 
Joseph Ellis 
x his mark
Before me 
Henry Williams
Justice peace

This is to certify that we the undersigned are well acquainted with Joseph Ellis the above affiant that we believe him to be a man of Veracity and entitled to Credit
C W Lathim
H N Epperson

Sworn and subscribed this 22nd day of January 1848 before me 
H Williams
Justice of the Peace
I certify that the above affiants are personally known to me and are men of Veracity
Henry Williams
Page 88

State of Tennessee
Grainger Court
I Edward Tate Clerk of the County Court for said County do certify that Henry Williams whose signature appears to the within affidavit is now and was at the date of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace for the County of Grainger aforesaid duly elected commissioned and qualified agreeably to the Constitution and laws of the state of Tennessee and that due faith and credit are [illegible]  of right should be given to all of his officials acts as such and that his signature appears in his own proper handwriting.
Witness my hand & seal of office at Rutledge the 24th day of January 1848.
Edwd. Tate Clerk
by Wm. T. Tate D.C.

[SEAL-illegible]
Page 89

State of Tennessee
Grainger County
Personally appeared before me Henry Williams an acting justice of the peace in and for said County Joseph Ellis and being requested to state some notable events that occurred at the time of his leaving Virginia which will enable him to affix the date of his knowledge of Matthew & Fanny Bussell, says it was the year that the great talk was about the King of France being beheaded and the circumstance he recollects is it was the October before Gen'l. Wayne defeated the indians on the Wabash and that it perhaps was ninety three instead of ninety two as before stated but he is certain it was before the Indians were defeated by Wayne as above stated.
Joseph Ellis  X his mark
Sworn and subscribed this 28 day of March 1848 before me
Henry Williams 
Justice of the peace

X Jany 1793
Page 90

State of Tennessee
Grainger County
I Edward Tate Clerk of the County Court of the State and County aforesaid do certify that Henry Williams Esqr. whose name appears to the within affidavit is now and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County duly elected commissioned and qualified  that his signature appears to be [obscured]
Given under my hand and seal of office at office in Rutledge this 7th day of March A.D. 1848
Edward Tate Clk.
by Wm. T. Tate D. Clerk
Page 91

State of Tennessee
Claiborne County
Personally appeared before me, H. J. Harrell
an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County personally James Clud makes oath that he is well acquainted with Fanny Bussell widow of Matthew Bussell That by a careful examination of the age of their oldest child and by comparing his own he must have been
born previous to the year 1794 and that said Mathew and Fanny were married - and lived as husband and wife before the year
1794 in Virginia.
Sworn and subscribed this 10th day of February 1847.
James Chick
Justice of the Peace
-
State of James
Claiborne County
I, L. L. Harrell do hereby certify that I am 
personally acquainted with James Chick who has sworn and subscribed the foregoing and
he is a person of credibility and truth.
Given under my hand and seal this
12th day of February 1844

L. L. Harrell
Justice of the Peace
Page 92

State of Tennessee
Claiboune County
I Thos J. Johnson Clerk of the County Court of the county and state aforesaid do certify that I am well acquainted with L.L. Harrell Esqr. whose name appears to the foregoing affidavit   That he is and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace duly elected commissioned and qualified and that his signature appears to be genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office at office in Tazewell this 19 day of Feb. A.D. 1847
Thos. J. Johnson
Clerk
Page 93

State of Tennessee Claiborne County
This day personally appeared before me Robt. J. Russell an acting Justice of the peace in and for said county James Chick Esqr. and makes oath in dur form of law that he was well acquainted with Mathew Bussell & Fanny Bussell his widow and also their eldest son William.  That he was acquainted with said family for thirty years  that said William was twenty four years old when he first knew him thirty years since   that the said Chick was 19 years old when he first knew said William   that he often heard Mathew Bussell and Fanny say that said Williams was 24 years old when he first became acquainted with him
Sworn to and subscribed this 13th day of September 1847
James Chick
Before me Robt. J. Russell
Justice of the peace

I certify that I am well acquainted with James Chick Esqr. who swore to the foregoing affidavit that he is a man of unimpeachable character.
Given under my hand and seal this 13th day of September 1847
Robert J. Russell  [handwritten seal]
Justice of the peace
Page 94

State of Tennessee  Claiborne County
I Thomas J. Johnson Clerk of the county Court of the state and county aforesaid do certify that Robt. J. Russell Esqr. whose name appears to the foregoing affidavit is now and was at the time of signing that same an acting Justice of the peace in and for said county and that full faith and credit should be attached to all his official acts and that his signature appears to be genuine.
Given under my hand and seal of office at office in Tazewell this 13th day of September 1847.
Thos. J. Johnson
Clerk of said court
Page 95

Thorn Hill T
Nov 5th

James  Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City DC


Nov 13, 1846
[illegible]
Fanny Bussell
Page 96

State of Tennessee
Claibourne County
On this the 31st day of October 1846 Personally appeared before me James Chick an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid David Cosbey and makes oath that he is well acquainted with Fanny Bussell of said county and her late husband Matthew Bussell and has been for 54 of 5 years   that they lived and cohabited together from his first knowledge of them until his death as husband and wife and there never was any doubt of their being such in their neighborhood
David Cosbey
Sworn and subscribed the day and year above mentioned 
Before me James Chick
Justice of the peace

I certify that I am well acquainted with the above affiant David Cosbey and that he is a person of unquestionable truth and veracity
Given under my hand and seal this 31st day of October 1846
James Chick  [handwritten seal]
Justice of the Peace
in and for Claiborne Cty
Page 97

State of Tennessee
Claiborne County
I Thomas J. Johnston Clerk of the County Court of said county certify that James Chick whose name appears to the within certificate is an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County duly elected commissioned and qualified   that full faith and credit should be attached to all his official acts as such,  and that his signature appears to be in his own hand writing
Given under my hand and seal of Office at office in Tazewell
This 31st day of October 1846
Thos. J. Johnston Clk
by Wm Neil D.C.
Page 98

3rd of November 1846

Sir
On the foregoing page you see additional proof in the case of Fanny Bussell our witness is all I can find who knew her in Virginia   I have inclosed his fee to the Clerk of Spottsylvania County Va. requesting him to send you a certificate of what evidence his office affords of their marriage   When you get his certificate please forward me her Warrant to Thorn Hill Grainger County Tennessee if the proof is satisfactory.
I am with due respect your Obedient Servant
James k. McAnally


J.L. Edwards Esqr.
Page 99

State 
of Tennessee Claibourn County May the 7th 1850
Declaration under the act of July the 29th
1848 on this 7" day of May 
Personally appeared before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace Fanny Bussell a resident of the State of Tennessee and Claibourn County. Fanny Bussell aged 85 years who being duly sworn, according to law doth on her oath
make the following Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed the 29 day of July 1848.  This applicant states that she was not married to her Husband
Mathew Russell before the last Term of his service but that she was married previous to the first day of January 1794 and that she has not intermarried but continues to be the widow of the above name Mathew Bussell and that the
husband Mathew Bussell Died on the 30th day of January 1843
Sworn to and subscribed to before me this 7 day of May 1850.
  James Chick
 a Justice of the peace
                                           her(x)mark
                                           Fanny Bussell

State of Tennessee Claiborn County

I, James Chick an acting Justice of the Peace for Claiborne County do certify that I am personally acquainted with Fanny Bussell and that she is not
able to attend a court of Record from bodily infirmity and that she is a woman of truth and veracity.
Given under my hand and seal this 7 day of May 1850
James Chick ℗
a Justice of the peace, for Claiborne County
Page 100

State of Tennessee Claiborn County
I, Thomas J Johnson, Clerk of the County Court of Claiborn County I do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the Esquire name that appears to the above affiant and that he is known and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace duly commissioned and qualified to the law of said State to administer oaths. Given under my hand and seal of office at office in Taneille this 7th day of May 1850
               Thos. J. Johnson
                                        Clk
Page 101


Proof of Marriage of Fanny
Bussell prior to Jany 1st 1794-
 James Chick in 1847 Sept: deposed that he Knew Fanny & Matthew Bussell & that
their oldest child William when he first knew him in 1817 was 24 years old. His parents often told him that William was 24 years7 old. This we determine his birth in 1793. The Family Record shows that
William was born in 1803-
-
David Cosby
says he has known the parties ever since 1792 when they were living as 
Husband & wife -
James Nunn knew Matthew & Fanny Bussell previous to the year 1793. that he
Nunn removed from the State of Va.
in the fall of the year 1793, that
they were married before he left
Va
Aquilla Jones says he first became acquainted with Fanny &
Matthew Russell in VA in
Page 102

the year 1793. they were then married
& had two children he recollects
the time by the fact that, he removed from Va, & in the year 1793 returned on business & staid at Bussell House
Joseph Ellis says that he knew Matthew &
Fanny Bussell prior to his leaving VA & that they then had two children, he says
he recollects the event from the fact that he left in the Oct. before Gen Wayne
defeated the Indians & in the year when the great talk was about the king of France being beheaded. Louis was beheaded 21 Jany 93. Gen. Wayne defeated the Indians 20 Aug. 94
Fanny Bussell says she was married
in June 91
Page 103

The evidence if not sufficient to establish
her marriage prior to 1st Jany 1794
must have been insufficient to establish
it prior to 1st Jany 1800. & her claim
was admitted under 29 July 1848
Page 104



Know all men by these presents, that Fanny Bussell of the County of Claiborn, and State of Tennessee, do hereby nominate, constitute and appoint
Tazwell W. Newman of the town of
Knoxville Tennessee, my true and lawful attorney in my name, place and stead, to prosecute the General Government of the United States, for all arrears of pension due me, as widow of Matthew Bussell under the acts of Congress of March the 3rd 1843 and June the 17th 1844. Further giving my said attorney power to fill all additional evidence, to receive all communications in relation thereto, to
examine all papers which may be on file, and so do any and all things which I might do or cause to be done, were I personally present at the doing thereof. 
Hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said attorney may lawfully do in the premises, by virtue thereof.
In testimony whereof I hereunto set my
hand this the day of May A.D. 1852.
                                   her (x) mark
                                Mrs. Fanny Bussell 
                               T W Newman
                         by J w Newman, Atty

Signed and delivered in the presence of
Charles Bussell
James Chick

State of Tennessee
County of Claiborn ⎬ S.S.
Be it known that on this the day of May A.D. 1852 personally appeared before the
subscriber an acting Justice of the peace in and for the county and state above written, Mrs. Fanny Bussell and acknowledged the foregoing power of Attorney to be her act and deed for the purposes therein contained 
In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand, the day and date above written
James Chick
Justice of the peace for
Claiborn County Tennessee
Page 105

State of Tennessee
County of Claiborn
Be it known that on this the day of May A.D. 1852 personally appeared before the subscriber an acting Justice of the peace in and for the County and State of above written. Mrs. Fanny Bussell
and made oath in due form of law that she, as
surviving widow of Matthew Bussell, was placed upon the Revolutionary pension rolls of the United States, under the act of Congress of July the 29th 1848 at the same rate per annum which her husband drew.
Affiant further declares that her marriage to the
aforesaid Matthew Bussell took place previous to the 11th day of January 1794, which fact was established by two credible witnesses and a copy of the marriage bond, and yet the commissioner of pensions inscribed her upon the rolls under the act of July the 29th 1848.
Affiant makes this declaration in order to obtain the arrearages of pension due her under the acts of Congress of March the 3rd 1843 and June the 17th 1844, and for proof in the case affiant would refer the department to her papers upon file and to the opinion of the Commissioner of pensions dated June the 25th 1844. 
                                         Fanny Bussell

Sworn to and subscribed the day and date
Cowritten before me and I further certify that Fanny Bussell who makes the foregoing declaration is the widow of Mathew Bussell and is the identical person who is now drawing a pension at the rate of $75 per annum.
In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand the
day and date above written.
James Chick
Justice of the peace for
Claiborn County Tennessee
Page 106


State of Tennessee
county of Claiborn} To wit:
I Thomas J. Johnson, Clerk of the county court of the County and State as above written, do hereby certify that James Chick, Esq before whom the foregoing papers were had, is an acting Justice of the peace in and for Claiborn County Tennessee, duly commissioned, and sworn and the signatures purporting to be his all genuine.
In testimony whereof I hereunto set my ┃
hand and fix my seal of office of Tazwell Tennessee this the 20 day of May A.D. 1852.
                   Thomas J Johnson Clk
                    Wm G. Payne, DC

less Wm G. Sayne, D. C.
Page 107


May 19 1834
 i certify that Matthew Bussell was a soldier in a company commanded by Capt Anthony Pingleton
of what I was a first Lieutenant belonging
Harmons regiment of Continental artillery and passed the rest of his enlistment for 10 months that expired at the end of term. I believe this 
 true to the best of my knowledge and belief
Francis Brooke


State Virginia
Corporation Treas 
Francis J Brooke a creditable and 
respectable witness this day appeared before me a Justice of the Peace for the corporation & State aforesaid & made oath to the above statement. Given under
my hand this 10th May 1834
John Hart N.P
Page 108

Virginia
Corperation of Fredericksburg
I, John James Chene, Clerk of the County
of Hustings of said corporation do hereby certify that John Hart Esquire, whose hand is signed to the within certificate of acknowledgment was at the time of taking the said acknowledgment, and still is a magistrate of the said corporation, duly commissioned and sworn, and that full faith and credit are due to all his acts and deeds as such
In Testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand, and caused the seal of my office to be hereto affixed this 10th day of May in the year of an Lord 1834, and of an Independence the fifty eighth
J. I. Chance
Page 109



Fredericksburg Va
10th May 1834

Dear Sir

Matthew Bussell a soldier of the Revolution came to this place yesterday, on his way to Washington to obtain a pension, and being without money or strength to prosecute his journey further (having travelled on foot from Tazewell Tenn has stopt short here, and given me his papers which I herewith enclose.
By the printed Document which you sent him some time ago- care of Walter R. Evans Esqr., it appears that proof of service is only wanting, and it being impracticable to procure the evidence of "two credible witnesses, it is hoped that the Certificate of Judge Brooke (one of the Judges of
the Court of Appeals of this State) who was the
first Lieut. of the Company to which Bussell
belonged, will be deemed sufficient. If the evidence of "two credible witnesses should be absolutely indispensable, it is feared that this old man must fail in obtaining what is no doubt justly due to him, in as much as he is now 600 miles from his home & cannot here procure any other evidence of his having rendered the service for which he claims compensation.
Where there can be no question as to the
service having been performed (as will appear
by the Certificate of Judge B. one of the Officer
of ┃
Page 110

of the very company to which the claimant
belonged) it is sincerely hoped that the usual
forms may be dispensed with, & that remuneration
so hardly earned, may at once be awarded to
this worthy Veteran.
If the evidence be satisfactory will
thank you to forward his pension certificate
to me; and as the old man is now upon the
Charity of our Citizens, I hope to be excused
for asking that prompt action may be had on
his case.
I am Dear Sir with high respect
you most obedient servant
R. B. Maury


James L. Edwards Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
Page 111

Copy

War Department
Pension Office
June 9, 1931

Benjamin Cloud, Esquire
Clerk of Claiborne County Court
Tazewell, Tennessee.

Sir: The declaration of Matthew Bussell has been
examined and placed in our files. The vessels in which he served were not attached to the National Navy Forces of the United States, but belonged exclusively to the State of Virginia; they were manned expressly for her defences and were never on the Continental establishment. As the Revolutionary pension law provides for none who did not belong to the Continental service, a pension can not of course be allowed.

J.L.E.

Copied by A.W.F.
July 11, 1934
Rev. and 1812 Wars Sec.
Page 112

Certificate of Pension issued
the 8~ day of July 185..
and sent to D B McVey
Tazewell
Te

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act
February [struck through] 27, 1848,
Page 185 Vol.  A.
July
Page 113

9.401
Tennessee
Fanny Bussell
widow of Matthew
who was a priv. of Art
in the Revolution

Inscribed on the Roll at the r...
of 75 Dollars  ~
Cents per annum, to commence
the 4th day of March, 1843 [struck through]
30 January 1844

Certificate of Pension issued
16~ day of July 1853 a..
sent to J.W. Newman
Knoxvil..

[Acts of March 3, 1843, & J..
17, 1844.]

Recorded in Book A
Vol. 2 Page 189
Page 114

Related
Let D.B. McVey, Sept. 3d/50
J. Cock
Let Pen. Agt., same date
Let - to D.B. McVey
Oct 4, 1850
WSA
Let same June 12/52
Let Ra A.S. Walters
June 9/52

Oct 29 - 1857 AB [vertical]

607 Knoxville
Tennessee
Fanny Bussell
widow of Matthew Bussell
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a private Arty

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 
75 Dollars 00
Cents per annum, to commence on 
the 4th day of March, 1848.

Certificate of Pension issued the 
8 day of July 1850
and sent to
D.B. McVey
Tazewell,
Tennessee.

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act
February 2, 1848, Page 185 Vol. 1
July  9     Book A
x
Bussell
Page 115

Knoxville
TE.
Sep 6
Free

Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
D.C.
Page 116

748
Fanny Bussell,
wd of Matthew, who
was a private of Artillery
and [illegible] troops.
--
Claiborne Co Tenn.
--
An $75 per Annum
Act July 29, 1848
--
D.B. McVey
Tazewell
Tenn.
Page 117

1916 July 11 Hist. to Mrs. James 
H. Richardson.
1934 July 11. hist to Mrs.
Harvey Sands acc F.

WIDOW, &c.
Revy
File No. 899
Fanny Bussell
Widow of
Matthew 
Bussell
Priv. of Arty. Rev. Wa
---
Act: Feb. 2nd 1870.
Index :-- Vol. A, Page 100

[Arrangement of 1870.]
Page 118

1538 [handwritten]
 ...JECTED [partial stamp]
P.O. Matthew Bussell
Service:  
Enlisted:           , 18  .
Page 119

State of Tennessee Claibourne County
Declaration under the act of September the 16'' 1776 I Fanny Bussell heir at law of Mathew Bussell Decd do upon oath declare that he was a private in the Revolutionary war, and that he continued in the service aforesaid until discharged by Congress I further declare that I have never recd warrant for the Bounty land promised to said Mathew Bussell on the part of the united states nor do do I believe that he ever recd it or Transfered his claim to it in any manner whatsoever therefore she respectfully ask for the warrant to be Issued to her she Refers to her husbands original declar[...]on filed under act of 1832 which will give the names of his officers, she also Refers to Proof on file in the war office to establish her heirship filed under act of July 29'' 1848
Sworn and subscribed to before me this 14'' day of August 1850
Fanny Bussell

Know all men by these presents that I Fanny Bussell aforesaid constitute and appoint Danl B McVay to be my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name to demand and receive from the secratary of war of the united states a warrant for the quantity of land due to me as aforesaid and my said attorney is hereby fully authorized and impowered to constitute and appoint one or more substitutes or attorneys under him for the special purposes above Expressed
Attest Isaac Massengill
Fanny Bussell
Page 120

Personally appeared the above named Fanny Bussel the subscriber to the foregoing Declaration and made oath to the same and in my presants Acknolledged the power of attorney thereto subjoined to be her free act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned
Attest Isaac Massingill
James Check
Justice of the peace
In testimony that the above written James Check was magistrate authorized to administer oaths and take acknolledgements &c in the state of Tennessee Claibourne County at the above date and that his name thereto subscribed appears to 
me to be his usual Signature I have unto affixed the county seal and and subscribed my name and quality at office in Tazewell this 14th day of August 1850
Thos J Johnson
Clk
Page 121

Recorded JUN 29 1934
Mail Sub-div
Lenoir City. Tennessee, June 27th, 1934.
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.
Gentleman:
According to the record Sixth census of June 11th, 1840 Matthew Bussle of Claiborne County Tennessee was a pensioner. 
Can you give me his record, date of birth, date of death and if in the Revolutionary War, what Company, Date of enlistment and what ever information the records show.
Mr Bussle was my great great grand father and I am asking this information so that I can join the Daughters of the American Revolution, If he were an a soldier of the Revolution,
Thanking you in advance for what ever information you might be able to give,
Respectfully,
Mrs Harvey Sands,
404 Kingston Street,
Lenoir City, Tennessee.
Page 122

Morristown, Tenn
June 21, 1916

Rev Sec
CH [both these words with a different pen off to the left side]

Commissioner of Pensions, 
Washington, 
D.C.

Will you please give me all the information you have about Mathew Bussel private Cavalry, VA Line, ennrolled pensioner? [written above second word in a different ink] May 14, 1834 [year is underlined]. He was a Revolutionary [underlined] Soldier. I will appreciate this very much. 
Very Respectfully, 
Mrs James H. Richardson
Page 123

July 10, 1916
Mrs. James H Richardson,
Morrisontown, Tenn.
Madam:-
In addition to the Military record of Matthew Bussell W.F. No. 899 you are furnish the following family data on file in the claim:

First child, a girl | born dead,| no date.
John Bussell | " [born] | October - 1793.
Robert Bussell | " | December 13, 1794.
Willson Bussell | " | February (last day) 1796.
--- Bussell | " | February 1, 1800.
William Bussell | " | March 1, 1803.
Nelley Bussell | " | December 12, 1804.
Nancy Bussell | " | October 13, 1806.
Sally Bussell | " | February 17, 1808.
Bird Bussell | " | May 4, 1810.
Shirley Bussell | " | February, 15, 1811.
Charles Bussell | " | February 11, or 14, 1815.
Matthew Bussell | " | June 14, 1819.
James Bussell | " | April - 1822.

Juda or Juday Bussell | " | October - 1807, married William Web Bussell August 24, 1824.

Very respectfully,
JmSaltzgaber [signature]
Commissioner.