Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 1883, Richard Vernon, N.C.
Page 1

(3-1776)

SERVICE
N. C.

Vernon, Richard
NUMBER
S1883

CONTENTS
Page 2

(left top corner torn off)

...ssee 8133
...rd Vernon
...avidson in the State of Tennessee was a Lieut. & Captain, in the ____ commanded by Captain ______ of the Regt., commanded by Col. Martin in North Carolina line for 8 months Lieut. ___ 106 : 66 2/3
4 months & 4 days Cap. ____ 82 : 66 2/3_____$189 : 00

Inscribed on the Roll of Nashville at the rate of 189 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of September, 1834

Certificate of Pension issued the 11th day of October 1837 and sent to Hon A. P. Mauny, H. R.

Arrears to the 4th of __
Semi-anl. allowance ending ___

{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832}

Recorded by D. Brown, Clerk,
Book E. 2 - Vol. 7 Page 108

Reduced from $420 per annum let 1 Mch '38 A. Ferguson
Cert. Hon. M. P. Gentry feb 2nd 1847.
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Richard Vernon. Dear Sir I am well acquainted with Isaac Vernon your brother himself and his family are well
Yours
J. A. Black
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Richard Vernon

aom'd
5.14 1416

Page 233

Febry 4 33

Hon. Bell of Tennessee
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BRIEF in the case of Richard Vernon of Davidson County in the State of Tennessee (Act of June, 1832.)

1.	Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? Open Court
2.	If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?
3.	How old is he? 74
4.	State his service, as directed in the form annexed.
Period. / Duration of Service. / Rank. / Names of General and Field Officers under whom he serviced.
15th Feb. in 1776 / A little more than 3 months / Lieutenant / Gen. Rutherford; Cap. John Leak; Col. Alex. Martin
1st August 1776 / A little more than 3 months / Lieutenant / 
15th March 1780 / upwards of 3 months / Lieutenant / Capt. Bethel
25 August 1780 / upward of 3 months / Lieutenant / Capt. Peay & Col. Pasely
1st February 1781 / upward of 3 months / Captain / Col. Martin
13th August 1781 / upwards of 3 months / Captain / 
October 1781 / upward of 3 months / Captain / Col. Pasely & Col. Martin
Commissioned 1782 / About 1 year / Captain / 

5.	In what battles was he engaged? Monks Corners. Shallowford of the Adkin
6.	Where did he reside when he entered the service? Guilford County North Carolina
7.	Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence,  by  incidental evidence, or by the rolls? Living Witnesses, Documentary proof and by Traditionary evidence.
8.	Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? They are not attached to each other as required by the Regulations, but in every other respectability are full and correct.
X. Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
Sam J. Potts
Examining Clerk
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Richard Vernon
Pension Claim
aomd.
15 mo. Capt.
9 mo. Lt.
2
4
Page 7

State of Tennessee}
Davidson County}
On the 26th day of October, 1832, personally appeared in open court before the Justices of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions in the County & State aforesaid, Richard Vernon a resident of said County of Davidson aged 74 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 of the act of Congress passed 7th June, 1832. That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated. I first entered the service of the U. S. about the 15th  February 1776, while living in Guilford County, N Carolina as a Lieutenant in Capt. John Leak’s command which was attached to the militia of Guilford County commanded by Col. Jas Martin. We marched about the above named time under Col. Martin from Guilford in an operation against the Scots Tories near Fayetteville, where we were under the command of Alexander Martin Col. of the 1st regiment of N Carolina troops and Gen. Rutherford. This part of my service is proved by the certificate of Col. Martin, marked (A) and who resides in N Carolina, Stokes County. Immediately after my return from this tour, there being a call for men to go to Wilmington, near which in the Capes the British having appeared, I entered Capt. Leak’s company as a Lieutenant, Col. James Martin commanding again and we marched to Wilmington but before we arrived, the British having continued to Charleston we halted and returned. I was 30 days in service in this expedition which added to my first tour making a little more than three months. I next volunteered about the first of August 1776, (being then in the first Division in consequence of my first tour of service), in Capt. Leak’s company and served as Lieutenant. This expedition was against the Cherokee Indians. We marched about the above date from Guilford under Col. James Martin to Salisbury where we fell under the command of Gen. Rutherford. From thence we marched through the country to Indian Nation, and after having destroyed a number of their towns and villages we returned. However, on twenty first of October, 1776, at Cathie’s Fort near 220 miles from home I took the certificate marked (B) of James Hunter Pack Master Gen. certifying that I have four horses as pack horses
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in the service of this expedition, and a driver and the same day, I took all the sick of the company I was in and conducted them from Cathey's Fort home where I arrived some time in November 1776, being out in this tour a little more than three months. This tour of service is also proved by Col. Martin’s certificate marked (A) as above. About 15th March 1780, I volunteered in Capt. Bethel’s company in which I served as Lieutenant, and Rob’t. Nelson as ensign. We marched about the time above stated from Guilford  for the relief and defense of Charleston (S.C.). Bethel’s company was attached to a regiment commanded by Col. Jas. Branyen in Gen. Caswell’s Brigade. We entered S Carolina about the 1st of April, 1780. We marched by Camden, from thence to a place called Monk’s Corner near Charleston, which the British, we understood had entered as to make it impossible for us to give Charleston any assistance. On the 11th April or there about the British under Tarlton attacked us at Moncks Corner and routed us, after which we collected our scattered ponies and marched to a place called the Big savanah on Santee River, where we remained until Gen. Caswell with his Brigade came to us. Whence we marched to Dupree’s Ferry on Santee where we remained some time acting as guards on the ferry until we heard of the complete fall of Charleston. We then under Gen. Caswell fell back to Camden and from thence we marched to N Carolina, soon after this our term of three months expired. This tour is proved by Austin Smith’s certificate marked (C) who lives in Abeville, [sic] S Carolina and who obtained a pension under the Act of 1818. This certificate is not certified by the clerk but by the Justice of the peace of Abeville [sic] District. We were disbanded about the last of June or first of July, having served upwards of three months in this tour. About the 25th of August 1780 and soon after Gates’ Defeat at Camden, I entered Capt. Peay’s company and served as Lieutenant. We were attached to Col. Pasely’s regiment of N Carolina militia. After rendezvousing at Guilford we marched under Col. Paisley to Salisbury where we joined Gen. Davidson’s brigade and were marched by him to the county of Mecklenburg to McAlpin’s Creek where the British coming on us, we retreated to the North side of Adkin river. On our retreat
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we were overtaken by the English and had a slight skirmish with them near Charlotte in which several men were killed among whom was William Rankins, and a Mr. Lock of my acquaintance. Capt. Peay taking sick soon after the commencement of our return, the command of the company devolved on me. Col. Pasley was dispatched with about 700 men from headquarters on the Adkin, among which was Capt. Peay’s company commanded by me, to disperse a body of about 380 Tories collected on the shallow ford of the Adkin in Surry County, N Carolina. About the time we attacked them they were attacked in the rear by some troops from the other side. We killed several and took 30 or 40 prisoners, among the killed was Capt. Jas Bryant. Col. Paisley took charge of the prisoners and we conducted them to Moravian Town and left them under guard. From there we returned to head quarters. The British having retreated to Waynesborough, S Carolina, Gen. Davidson marched us down about the waxhaw settlement and took up winter quarters at a place called New Providence where Col. Morgan joined us, also Col. Howard  commanding the Maryland Continental troops, while we remained here Col. Morgan was promoted to Gen. and Col. Howard’s Battalion was attached to his Brigade. We remained here until my men’s tour of service expired. I got a discharge for three months service as Lieutenant signed by Arthur Forbis, Capt. Commandant, (Col. Pasley being absent with the sick) and Wm. Davidson, Brigadier Gen on the 28th November 1780; (as proved by the discharge itself marked (D)). The date of the discharge is torn off and obliterated. This tour is also proved by the certificate marked (C) of Austin Smith, also by a receipt for a discharge of a tour of duty, marked (E) signed by John Pratt Junior, as a private in Peay’s company then under my command. About the 1st of February 1781, I was appointed Capt. in the upper part of Capt. Peay’s District it being too large for one company, as proved by the commission marked (E) signed by Col. Jas. Martin, there never being a date to it or if there was it is torn off; in pursuance of which commission I raised a company and marched under Col. Martin to join Gen. Green who was then retreating through North Carolina.
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We joined in with him near Halifax, Virginia. Cornwallis having quit pursuit of Green, turned in to Hillsborough, N Carolina. The latter then returned back and marched us into Guilford county where I was ordered to raise a company of mounted infantry and joined him as soon as this was done. I was taken from under the command of Col. Martin and was placed under Benj. Ford D. A. Gen. of Gen. Green’s army. Our duty was to write expresses and pilot various detachments of our men. While we remained in Guilford I received orders from Benj. Ford D. A. Gen. to receive from McClowed Comd. of Provost Guard a body of Tory Prisoners stationed, I think, at Boyd’s Mill, and conduct them to a place of greater safety which I did. This is proved by the orders marked (G) and which never had any date signed by Ford. A further duty assigned to me and my men was to collect provision for the army which is proved by two receipts marked (H) (I), dated one the 8th of March 1781, the other 21st of March of the same year, both signed by Joseph Thomas for Col. Davie C. G. P.” I remained here in Guilford until my term of three months service was expired and we were disbanded. On the 13th of August 1781, I received a capt.’s commission marked (J) to raise a company of light horsemen, signed by Col. Jas Martin. I was ordered to raise these horsemen for the purposes mentioned in the commission. I served a three months tour of duty in the capacity of Capt. taking and apprehending delinquent, Tories and dissenters proved by the documents marked (K). About the month of October 1781, I was called out with my company under Col. Martin in an expedition against British under Major Craig who lay near Wilmington. After we had marched some distance on this route my company under Col. Pasely was ordered
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back by Col. Martin to keep the Tories down. We accordingly marched back to Guilford. This is the expedition mentioned in Col. Martin’s certificate marked (A). A short time after this the same month a parcel of my light horsemen under me, commanded by Col. Pasely marched against a certain Col Fanning who lurking in Anson Orange and other counties in N Carolina commanded a body of Tories. A list of part of the men who were in this expedition may be seen by reference to list (L). We were out in the expedition about five weeks, see (M) as to October 1781. After our return from this expedition I served until three months from October had expired, and my men were disbanded. In the commencement of 1782, I recruited the minute company as mine was called and served as Capt. apprehending taking desenters [sic], Tories and delinquents, until peace was declared. For proof see documents marked (N). All the particular expeditions I cannot recollect but know I employed almost entirely in the service during 1782 until peace. 

Where was you born - I was born in Charlotte County, Virginia
In what year was you born -18th October 1758
Have you any record of your age - I have a record of my age in my father’s family bible now in my possession. 
Where were you living when called into the service - I lived in Guilford County, N Carolina
Where have you been living since the revolution - and where do you now live - I lived in that part of Guilford now called Rockingham until 1825 when I moved to Williamson County, Tennessee and soon after moved into Davidson County, Tennessee where I now live.  
How were you called
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into the service - were you drafted - did you volunteer or were you a substitute - I volunteered.  
State the names 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 service.  There was Col. Alexander Martin who commanded the 1st Regiment of N Carolina regular troops, Col. Howard commander of the Maryland troops, Gen. Morgan commander of the Virginia troops, and Gen. Green while in Guilford, besides Col. Jas Martin, who commanded the militia of Guilford, Gen. Caswell commander of the N Carolina Militia, Gen. Rutherford who commended in the two expeditions where I was, against the Scots Tories and the Indians in 1776 and Gen. Davidson who was a regular officer. I have stated above the general circumstances of my service. 
Did you ever receive a commission. I never received a regular commission for Lieutenancy, tho [sic] I served four [sic] 3-months tours as such and took the oath of office and was ranked in court martials as one. I must have had a certificate from Col. Martin, but I do not recollect it. I have two certificates for captaincy, one of the foot and the other of the horsemen, signed by Col. Martin, now in my possession.  
State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood and who can testify to your character for veracity, and their belief of your service as a soldier in the revolution. I am acquainted with Saml McMaury, Solomon Morton, John Morton and William H. Mann, Esquires who can testify to my character
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I hereby relinquish any claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declare my name is no on the pension roll of any agency in any state.
Ricd. Vernon 
Sworn to and subscribed I open court October 26th 1832}
Henry Ewing, Clerk of Davidson County Court

We, William Johnson ______ a clergy man resident in the county of Davidson and state of Tennessee and James S. Williams, a resident in the said County and State aforesaid do hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Richard Vernon who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that we believe him to be 74 years of age, that he is reputed and believe in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution and that we concur in that opinion.
William Johnson
James J. Williams

Sworn to and subscribed in open court October 26th 1832}
Test Henry Ewing Clerk 
Davidson County Court

And the said court declares their opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by war department that the above named applicant was a soldier of the revolution and served as he states – and the court further certifies that it appears to them that the said William Johnson and James J. Williams who have signed the preceding certificate are credible persons and that their statement is entitled to credit
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Signed in open court October 26th 1832
J. Wharton
Wm. Williams
E. J. Connell

State of Tennessee}  SS.
Davidson County}

I Henry Ewing Clerk of the court of please and quarter Sessions for said county do hereby certify to whom it may concern That the foregoing contains the original proceedings of said court in the matter of the application of Richard Vernon for a pension
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of said court to be also affixed at office in Nashville on this twenty sixth day of October A.D. 1832
Henry Ewing
I certify that I am acquainted personally with all the persons whose names appear as subscribed, and as further on the annexed papers. They are all genuine signatures.
Hon. Bell 
M.C.
March 7th 1833
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WASHINGTON September 4, 1931

BA-J / AWF

Mrs. B. K. Scott
2900 – 10th Avenue
Columbus, Georgia.

Dear Madam:
You are advised that it appears from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, S. 1883, that Richard Vernon was born October 18, 1758 in Charlotte County, Virginia.

While residing in Guilford County, North Carolina, he served with the North Carolina Troops, as follows -  from February 15, 1776, three months as lieutenant in Captain John Leak’s [sic] company, Colonel James Martin’s regiment; from July or August 1776, three months as lieutenant in Captain Leak’s company, Colonel James Martin’s regiment, in an expedition against the Cherokee Indians; from February or March 1780, three months as lieutenant in Captain William Bethel’s company, Colonel James Brannon’s regiment, and was in the battle of Monck’s Corner: from August 25, 1780, three months as lieutenant in Captain George Peay’s company, Colonel John Pasley’s regiment; from February 2, 1781 about two months as captain in Colonel Martin’s regiment; from August 13, 1781, as captain of a company of horse for about three months, and he continued to serve under Colonels Pasley [sic] and Martin until the close of the war.
 
He was allowed pension on his application executed October 26, 1832, at which time he was living in Davidson County, Tennessee.

In 1835, he was living in Williamson County, Tennessee.

His wife and children were referred to, but no
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names were given

In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, the name of the person paid and possibly the date of death of the Revolutionary War pensioner, Richard Vernon, S. 1883, you should apply to the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, records Division, Washington, D. C., citing all of the following data - 
Richard Vernon
Certificate number 8135
Issued October 11, 1837
Rate $ 189.33 per annum
Commenced September 4, 1834
Act of June 7, 1833
Tennessee Agency.

Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator
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Richard Vernon S.F.1883.

- Order signed Ben Ford, D.A. Gen undated.
- Order signed Ja Martin Col. dated Jan 3, 1782
- Order signed Jn Campbell Lieut N.C. Cont. regt, dated July 1, 1782
- Receipt signed Jn  Campbell Lt N.C. Cont. 4th Regt. dated July 24 1782

The above papers have been removed of this case, to be forwarded to the War Dept. and are locked up in the Record Div.

Aw.
Aug. 4. 1910
Sent to War Dept. Jan. 16. 1913
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John Pratt for Witness
(E)
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November 27th 1782 Then Received of Richd. Vernon on [illegible] of Nine pounds six shillings for a Tour Duty Served with him in the Militia year 1780
John Pratt Jnr
(E)
Page 20

Recet for Mare from Jobe Warde
(M)
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N Carolina}
Guilford County} 
This May Certify that I Have, Received a Sertin [sic] Sorril [sic] Mare that was pressed by Capt. Vernon at My Hous [sic] from Me the 28 of Oct. one Thousand and Seven hund. and Eighty one & I Say Received by Me    
Job Ward
January 12th, 1782
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Receipt for Cattel Collected for the South Army
H
Page 23

March 8th 1781 Camp at Haw River Ft. No. Carolina Then Received of Capt. Richard Vernon Four Head of Cattle for the Use of the Army 
Joseph Thomas for Col. Deavie CGP
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March 21st 1781 Received of Capt. Vernon Eight Head of Cattle for the Use of the Army 
Joseph Thomas
for Col. Davie, CG.P 
(I)
Page 25

Valintine Alin 2 Steers Five years old
Ignatius Gann  2 Steers 2 years old
Wm Astin 1 {mare} 3 years old
Isaac Whitworth  1 Mar 2 years old
Jas Hays  1 Bull 5 years old
Robert  macama 1 Steer 5 years old
John Rite 1 Steer 3 years old
Benjamin Briton  2 Steers 3 years old 

Risate [sic] for publick [sic] Catill [sic]
Page 26

(B)

Certifycate [sic] of Servis [sic] in of pack horse servs [sic] in 1776
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There by certify that Richard Vernon had four horses in the Sarvis [sic] of North Carolina as pack horses & drove said horses in the late Expedition against the Indians and that said horses was in the sarvis [sic] Seventy Eaight [sic] Days and that Said horses was Delivered to me at Guilford Corthouse [sic] who was packmaster for Said County for the services of Said Expedition Certifyed [sic] by me this twenty first Day of October 1776. 
James Hunter

(B)
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Guilford County} These may certifie [sic] that you are appointed Captain of a Company of foot Militia of the upper part of Capt. Peay's District which is divided, the Line to be hereafter ascertained so as equal Numbers are to be in each Company which you & Capt. John Leek can settle of the lower part, you are to nominate Lieut. & Ensign, Serjeant [sic] & Corporal and act agreable to military orders as you may receive them, as Captain, untill [sic] you will receive a Commission from the Governor so doing this shall be your Comission [sic]. 
Captain Richard Vernon   
J. A. Martin, CoC 
S.F. 1883
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Rich'd. Vernon
Discharge
From Gel Davidson
(D)
Richard Vernon 
S.F. 1883 N. C.
Page 30

These are to Cartify [sic] that Richard Vernon Lieut.  In the Third Regt. A Volunteer Raised in the [cut off] Salisbury has Served three months According [cut off] and is hirby [sic] Discharged. 
Given under my hand the [cut off] 
To all Whom it may Concern  Both Civil & Military 
Arthur Forbis, Capt.
Wm L. Davidson
(D)
S.File 1883
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Land Bond.
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July 28th 1781
I do hereby Acknowledge to be Bound Body for Body for my son Benj. Land who is a Continental Soldier for during the present War as he has Deserted & been Apprehended & taken by Capt. Rich'd Vernon Compy. of Light Horse under my Protection, and doth hereby agree to Deliver him when Called for by Sd. Capt. Vernon in Witness thereof I do bind myself my heirs Executors or Administrators to perform what I have above Acknowledged so do Witness my hand this date above mentioned. 
Joseph Land, X his mark 
Test: 
John Brewer
Ephraim Land his X mark
Certify that Mr. Land Complyed [sic]  with his Agreement 
Rich'd Vernon
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Richard Vernon
N.C.
S.1883
Mrs. B. K. Scott
2900 - 10th Ave -
Columbus
Georgia -
Personal call Sept. 1- 31
Page 34

FREE (top right corner)
Secretary of War
Washington

NYR 516 Rec.d 26 Dec 1890

Circular stamp: [illegible] TLAND VILLAGE DEC 12
Page 35

Susp. see letters written members –
See letter to J. Southworth Aug. 19. 1835 –
do. to Ltr to J. H. Boss [illegible]
Sept. 8. 1835 . do. 19 . Sept 36
Ltr. To Hon. A. P. Maury Jan. 10 1837 – do . to Same 27 Feb. 1837
- do . to Same Feb. 25. 1837
- do . to Same 20 March 1837
Page 36

3 76
3 82
5 82
Ains 81
C. 86 81

11 mo Lt 146.66
24 ds Capt 16.00
$162.66
Page 37

8133
Tennessee
Richard Vernon
of Davidson in the State of Tennessee who was a Capt. & Lieut in the Company commanded by Captain Leak – of the regt. Commanded by Col. Martin in the N. Carolina line for 15 Capt. 9 Lieut.

Inscribed on the Roll of Tennessee at the rate of 420 Dollars __ Cents [crossed out] per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 12th day of March 1833 and sent to Hon. J. Bell H. of R.

Arrears to the 4th of Sep. 1832 $840
Semit-anl. allowance ending 4th Mar. ’33 $210
$1050

{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.}

Recorded by Geo. C. Stiles Clerk, 
Book D. Vol. 9. Page 162

Suspd.
See letter to P. Agt. (J. H. Fletcher)
Nov. 15, 1834 – do. to Same & to J. Gibson, Jan. 15 1835 – do.  to J. Southworth Feb. 20. 1835
do.  to Same 3rd April 1835
do.  to Same May 7. 1835 _ do.  to Same 17 June 1835 _ see letter to Hon. A. P. Maury March 20 1837

date of death not on A.B.
Page 38

Payments to be made at Nashville by Presd : u. S. Pn. Bank 
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of Tennessee
Recorded by Geo. C. Stiles
Clerk, in Book D Vol. 9 Page 162
Page 39

WAR DEPARTMENT.
Revolutionary Claim.

I certify in conformity with the Law of the United States, of the 7th June 1832, Richard Vernon of the State of Tennessee who was a Captain and Lieutenant In the Revolutionary Army is entitled to receive Four Hundred & Twenty dollars ["and cents" is crossed out] per annum, during his natural life, commencing on the 4th of March, 1834, and payable semi=annually, on the 4th of March, and 4th of September, in every year. 
Given at the War Office of the United States, this 12th day of March one thousand eight hundred and thirty-three

Circular seal with pointed edge
Examined and Countersigned
Page 40

Pension Office, oct. 10. 1837

Sir,
To what time was Richard cernont last paid? He was a Capt. & Lieut. at $420 annum the act of June 7, 1832, Nashville, Ten. Roll. 
up to the 4 Sep 1834 J H
Page 41

Deposson {sic] of George Peay
Page 42

State of Tennessee}
Williamson County} 
Personally appeared George Peay aged seventy nine years on the nineteen of January last before me Levi Crosby an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid and made oath that he was acquainted with Capt Richard Vernon in the time of the revolutionary war and was in the Service with him that the Said Captain Richard Vernon and the Deponent were then residents of Guilford County North Carolina in the immediate vicinity of each other and the Deponent further saith that he has a personal knowledge of the tours of service performed by Said Captain Richard Vernon herein stated.  He Deponent and Richard Vernon volunteered in Seventeen Hundred and Seventy six Sometime in the month of February as Private Soldiers under Captain John Leeke and joined the Regiment commanded by Col. James Martin at Guilford Courthouse and march on an Expedition to Cross Creek against the Highland Scots and Tories and was acredited and paid for a three months tour in the same year in June following under the Same officers we marched to Salisbury we then marched on near Pleasant Garden on the Catawba River
Page 43

and there awaited the arrival of General Rutherford with the Ballance [sic] of the troops from there we marched on to the Cherokee nation of indians on the Tennessee River we destroyed several towns cut down their corn Remained there several weeks we then returned home in October and was accredited and paid for four months. In the year Seventeen Hundred Eighty the Deponent Saith that he went to a place called New Providence in Mecklenburg North Carolina and on his arival [sic] he found Richard Vernon acting as a Captain under General Davidson the Deponent Saith that he does of his own Personal Knowledge know that Said Richard Vernon did perform the tour to Cross Creek and and [sic] the Cherokee nation further the Deponent Saith not.  Sworn to and Subscribed to before me in the year of our Lord one Thousand eighteen Hundred and thirty seven 9th Day of May. 

George Peay {Seal}
Levi Crosby JP {Seal}
Page 44

The State of Tennessee SS
I Lemuel B McConnico Clerk of the county court of Williamson county in the state of Tennessee aforesaid do certify that Levi Crosby whose Signature appears to the foregoing affidavit of George Peay is now and was at this taking of such affidavit acting Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Williamson aforesaid duly commissioned and Sworn and that full faith and credit are due his acts as such
In testimony whereof I have hereto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of Said courts at office this 19th day of August AD 1837
L. B. McConnico

Circular seal with pointed edging
Page 45

Rich Vernon
[illegible]
W Tenn
8133

FREE 
Feb 19
Circular stamp FEB 

J. L. Edward Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
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Fayetteville February 2nd 1835.

J. L. Edwards Esqr.

Sir, 
Your note of the 15th Ultimo addressed to John Gibson Esq. upon the subject of Richard Vernon’s drawing a pension for two years service was received by Mr. Gibson the day before yesterday (Saturday) and placed in my house this day, with on request that I would answer it; taking for my guide a letter which Mr. G, had addressed you in his  own hand writing; & which he hand written with infinite  pains for want of good eye sight. I have thought it better to transcribe his own language, and obtain his signature to it; and finally to refer you to Mr. Inge our representative in Congress, from this district, from the character of your correspondence.
Mr. Gibson thus writes,
“You request me to give information relative to the time Richard Vernon served in the revolutionary war. There is living at this time in Williamson County State of Tennessee a Richard Vernon who I am informed draws a pension of $470 “ from government. If he is the Vernon you refer to I will relate as near as I an recollect his services that he rendered in the revolutionary war.  Vernon & myself were raised to manhood in Guildford County North Carolina ad were enrolled in the same militia company under the same officers during the revolutionary war. Vernon cannot be entitled to the pension he draws. Neither do I believe he was in actual  services
Page 47

half the time of two years. I will now state my reasons and what I do know to be facts. In the latter end of the year 1778 there was a call for militia men from the company I belonged to, for a five months tour, as it was called.  I, myself, was drafted as one of the numbers.  I believe, at that time, Vernon was not on the muster roll.  The time of militia men’s service, after the time referred to above, now reduced to 3 months to the close of the war; unless a person would volunteer a longer time. I will now relate what I do know to be fact relative to Mr. Vernon in the year. ’81. In February the British under the command of Lord Cornwallis in pursuit of Genl. Green, as they marched through Guildford County, the militia in general turned out against the enemy.  I myself a volunteer under the command of Capt. Thomas Cook; marched down Dan river into the state of Virginia, & there back to Guilford County N.C. – On our return to our own county I saw Mr. Vernon. He stated that himself, and all the men, that had horses, were attached to the commissary department; and that he, himself, has the command. We were in the employ till after the battle of Guildford court-house, & were then dismissed.  The time I, myself, was then in service was seven weeks.  Mr. Vernon was not in service, at that time more than two months.
In October of the same year – 1781 – the militia men of Guildford county were ordered into services; under the command of Col. Peasley, Captain John May commanded a company of horsemen; Mr. Vernon at that time was called lieutenant, under Capt. May. The time of service, at this time, could not exceed six weeks; which closed our services
Page 48

in the revolution, in the section of country Mr. Vernon and myself lived in.
I have been informed that Mr. Vernon was in possession of papers and documents sufficient to establish his claim at the War Department. If he had such papers it is doubtful, with me, whether the are genuine.  Any person towards the close of the revolutionary war, if they thought proper, could procure a small party to join them, especially against the Tories – tour out a few days, and have the title of captain; return to a field officer’ & obtain a discharge for more months when they have actually served weeks.
There were many  near the close of the  revolutionary war, like the Pharasees [sic] of old, that loved to be called (Rabbi) captain, & Mr. Vernon was of that class. I state this as a truth, not that I suppose it will have any influence on the subject of your request.”
Respectfully I am –
Your obt. Sert.
John Gibson

The above is a true copy of the original made before me.
I am with much respect
Yours etc. etc..
Isaac Southworth
Page 49

Margaret Crow
A
Page 50

(A)
State of North Carolina}
Stokes County}
November 9th 1831

I do hereby certify that I was Colonel Comandant [sic] of the Militia of Guildford County in this state during the war of the Revolution.  That Richard Vernon formerly of the Said county of Guilford and now a citizen of this State of Tennessee Seved under my command in The Expedition against the Cherokee Indians I the year 1776 – that  Said Richard was a Lieutenant in Captain Leaks company in Said Expedition.  That in Said Rank of Lieutenant he likewise served under my command in and expedition against the Scots Tories near Fayetteville and in second other excursions against the Tories in the South part of the county of Randolph in this State – That Captain Leaks company having become too large it was divided into two and the Said Richard Vernon appointed by me a Captain of one of the companies.  That Said Richard Vernon in the Rank of Captain Served under me in the Expedition against the British at Wilmington who were commanded by Captpain Craig – And I do further certify that Said Richard Vernon in the afforesaid [sic] expeditions and in   all other duties that came under my observation or to my knowledge in any way was a well behave faithful and meritorious officer.
Ja. Martin Senr. Commadant [sic]
of the Guilford Militia
Page 51

State of Tennessee}
Lincoln County} SS.

Be it known that before me Benjamin F. Clarke, a justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid, personally appeared John Gibson, and being sworn, in due form of law, deposeth and saith,
That Richard Vernon, as this deponent is informed, now lives in Williamson county, and State of Tennessee, and draws a pension for two years service in the Revolutionary war.  This deponent saith further that he, himself, and Richard Vernon were raised to manhood in Guildford county, North Carolina; and were mustered under the militia officers (excepting when ordered into actual services) during the war of the Revolution. This deponent knew Mr. Vernon to be in service in the  year 1780, at the time the British, under the command of Lord Cornwallis, were in Guilford county. Mr. Vernon then said that he had the appointment of commander of such o the Guilford militia as pack horses, with orders to collect cattle for the troops.  A very short time after the battle of Guilford Court-house, this deponent avers that all the Guilford militia were dismissed; and that Mr. Vernon did not serve, at that time, a time exceeding two months, if so much.
In October or November of the same year the Guilford militia were ordered into  service under the command of Col. Peasley, who was then Col. of the Guilford militia.  Mr. Vernon was at that time Lieutenant under Capt. John May. And under Capt. May this deponent deposes that Mr. Vernon did not serve more than six weeks, which term of service closed the services of the Guilford militia.
Page 52

during the war of that period.
This deponent further saith that he has now before him a copy of the communication he mad the Ware Department, bearing the date of February 2nd 1835; and after a strict and impartial investigation of the premises, he discusses nothing therein continued but what he then fully believed, and nothing but what he yet fully believes.  And he declares that to the best of his recollection and belief Richard Vernon, (formerly of Guilford county North Carolina, and now of Williamson county Tennessee) was not in actual service in the Revolutionary war, so much, altogether, as one year.
This deponent state that he knows a certain James Martin who was called a Col. of Guilford militia in the year 1780; and that he saw said Martin in camp a few days previous to the battle of Guilford court-house; but does not recollect that he held any special command at that time.
In the face of the same Col. Martin was first in command of a considerable number of militia against the Tories; and marched to the southern part of North Carolina on Raft Swamp and Drowning creek.  This deponent was there with Col. Martin, and well knows that Vernon was not; for this deponent obtained a short furlough on a special occasion, returned home, & found Vernon there. A short time subsequently Vernon turned out as Lieutenant under Capt. May as before stated, & marched under Col. Peasley into Chatham & Randolph counties against the Tories. And this deponent further
Page 53

In testimony of the foregoing, I have hereunto set my hand this 22nd day of May 1835.
Benj'm. F. Clark a justice of the peace.
State of Tennessee}
Lincoln County}
I Francis L. Kincannon Clerk of the court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions in and for the county aforesaid do certify that Benjamin F. Clark is an acting Justice of the peace in & for the county aforesaid and that he was at the time of signing the foregoing and that I believe the [test blocked) be his signature -
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at office in  Fayetteville this the 30th day of May AD 1835
F. L. Kincannon Clk
By Ptr. R. Garnes,
Page 54

Circular stamp: JUN

J. L. Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 55

Lincoln County Tennessee May 28th 1835

J. L. Edwards Esq,

Yours of the 7th Just reached me on the 23rd – I had, 2 days previously, obtained Mr. Gibson’s affidavit; and shall forward it as soon as I can have it authenticated – you will receive it, & this by the same mail.  In a conversation, the subject, which I held yesterday with my father-in-law, Major Wm. Smith, he stated a fact to me of which I was not before aware; viz that when Gibson first determined on applying for a pension in his own case, he wrote to Vernon desiring  him, if he could, to testify to his (Gibson’s) services; and that Vernon did not answer. Name of Mr. Gibson’s veracity there is no doubt, among those who know him - indeed I think there cannot, in justice, be, even the slightest.  How much and how plan the silence of Vernon was calculated to influence the feelings of Gibson your knowledge of human  nature will enable you to judge. I believe, however, if he were moved by that consideration at all, he himself was unconscious of it. The whole affair has been a source of pain to him and he has often wished that he had had nothing to do in it.  Smith tells me that from his own account,  as related by himself to Smith, Gibson was
Page 56

absent from North Carolina much of the time during which Vernon alleges he served.
Very Respectfully
Your Obedient Sert.
George Southworth
Page 57

May 31
circular seal: FAYETTEVILLE MAR 7
FREE
Vernon Tenn

J. L. Edward Esq. 
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 58

Fayetteville March 16th. 1835.

J. L Edwards Esq. 
Commissioner of Pensions

Yours of the 20th  auth and received the 14th Just. Land I yesterday saw Mr. Gibson upon the subject spoken of.
He alleges that he knew three gentlemen by the name of Martin (brothers) and all officers; and desires me to ask the Department the name and grade of the one alluded to in your note.
He had also requested that I inquire what proof Vernon had addressed – whether documentary or personal, - if the former, what is their nature & by whom are they signed if the latter who are the persons?
He adds that if, in hour reply, you still wish for his deposition, it shall be cheerfully appended.
Most Respectfully
Your very obt. Sert.
Isaac Southworth
Page 59

Thos H Fletcher Esq.
Nashville
Page 60

Franklin Tenns
Decer 18. 1834

Sir
I was called on by Col Tappan for my affidavit relative to old Rd. Vernon a Pensioner. I know nothing more than Hear say, as what has been told me and not being in existence at the time Vernon was in Service have referred the matter to those who was in Service about that time and  was Personally known to be Vernon. If I am not mistaken you was also Personally acquainted with John Gibson Esq. & who now lives near Fayetteville Lincoln County Tenn it was from communications made to me from Heirs that I made the Enquiry of to W Lomenville & if  you apply to him he will give you with pleasure any information he may possess also refer you to others who was neighbors & acquaintances with Vernon & perhaps in Service with him
Respectfully
Yours
J Fields

Does the Law relative to Pensioners intend to place officers in the mistaken Services from his months to nine upon the same footing as officers of the Continental line Services from three to Five yr and if it does further inquiry is unnecessary
Page 61

Circular stamp: FAYETTEVILLE TN JUN 4
FREE
June 13
Rich Vernon
Tenn
J. L. Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 62

Fayetteville March 30th. 1835.

J. L Edwards Esq. 
Enclosed I , at last, found you the affidavit of John Gibson in the case of Richard Vernon. As I live 6 miles distant from this place and have been much engaged since its date, I have been unable to obtain, any sooner, the clerk’s certificate and count seal.
You will perceive that the affidavit is in my hand writing. It was, nevertheless, copied from a M. S. prepared by the old gentleman himself; from which it differs in nothing but grammatical construction.  The following remarks are made by the particular desire of Mr. Gibson.
You will notice that he has not sworn that   Vernon did not perform his alleged services; but merely that it is his belief he did not; and that he has sworn to some specific services which he knows Vernon did perform.
He know nothing of the Col. James Grade you mention. If there was any officer of that or any other, rank, in Guilford, so named, he never heard of it. He thinks if Col. James Martin be yet living he must be nearly, if not quite an hundred years old. And he thinks that by applying to some of the pensioners in surrey, Rockingham or Guilford counties, N.C. in full knowledge of Vernon’s real services may be obtained; but does not mention, because he does not recollect names.
Very Respectfully
Isaac Southworth
Page 63

Rich. Vernon
W Tenn
8133
Circular seal: SHVILLE .T. AUG 29
 J. L. Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 64

Union Bank of Tennessee
Nashville Aug 28 1835

J L Edwards Esqr

Sir
Richard Vernon on pension at rate of $420 per annum has just applied for the pension due on 4 March last – Finding his payment suspended by your order I applied at the request of Mr. Vernon to the former agent who showed me your letter of 15 January last in which you say that Field had produced no proof that Vernon is not entitled etc. but that you had written to Mr. John Gibson of Fayetteville on the subject – Mr. Vernon wishes to know your determination – may I ask your attention to the subject & I am
Very respectfully
Your obt serv.
Jn Meredith Bass
Prest & Pension Agent
Page 65

Jan 7.
M -- at.
Vernon
Tenn  wk
8133
Hon J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington

Hon. AP Maury
HR
Page 66

H. of Rep. Jan 6th 1836
Sir
A revolutionary pensioner by the name of Vernon, late of Davidson County now of Williamson county, Tennessee, informed me that he had been struck from the roll of pensioners on the alleged ground of his having been a Tory. I took a memorandum of his name & grade & regiment, which I have lost or mislaid, I only recollect that he was an officer in The North Carolina Continental line.
I took some pains to inquire into his character, I was informed it was highly respectable, & that he was incapable of basing an application for a pension on perjury & false pretences.  Believing as I do that injustices unintentional of course, has been done him by the Dept., I request to be informed of the grounds from which his pension has been discontinued.
Very respectfully 
A. P. Maury
Page 67

Union Bank of Ten
Nashville Aug 25 1836

J L Edwards Esqr

Sir
May I ask whether you have yet obtained satisfactory evidence in case of Richard Vernon a pensioner under the act of June 1832 the payment of whose pension has been suspended for nearly two years for the reason as is alleged that it was obtained upon false testimony.
He again made application today for payment & as his case is somewhat peculiar I have taken the liberty of calling your attention to it.

Respectfully
Your Obt Svt
Jn. M Bass, Prest & Pension agent
Page 68

Sept 5
[illegible]
[circular stamp]
J L Edwards Esqr
Comis of Pensions
Washington City
DC
Page 69

[circular stamp] NASHVILLE . T .  NOV 6
8133
J. L. Edwards Eq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Mail
Page 70

OHier Bank W. States
Nashville 5th Mar 1834

Sir

I deem it my duty to advise you that a Mr. J. Fields of Franklin in Williamson County in this State called on me this morning to ascertain upon what data Rich’d. Vernon draws so heavy a pension as $420 – per annum. I could not answer the question being ignorant of the rule by which you fix the rate of each pension. He states that he made the inquiry at the instance of a man who knew Vernon from a [illegible] and whilest in service [illegible] therefore surprised at the amount of Pension allowed him – and from a conviction that the government must have been imposed upon in Vernons application, he suggested Mr. Fields to make the above inquiry, that his knowledge Vernon served only about 60 days in the taking of Lord Cornwallis first that service was attached to the Quarter Master department – Vernon is ranked as Capt & Lieut. In his Certificate –
I am most respectfully
Your obt. Svt.
Jn. Summerwith, Clrk

J. L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City.
Page 71

11 Mo. Lt.
24 ds. Capt
Oct 9
Rd. Vernon
Hon. J L Edwards
Pension Office 
A. P. Maury
HR
Page 72

H. of Rep. Oct 9th 1837

Sir
Among the papers which I left with you some  time since was the certificate of pension of Richard Vernon.
I desire that a new one may be made out & sent to him in conformity with your decision. I think that the sum which you adjudged him to be entitled to was one hundred & eighty nine dollars per annum
very respectfully 
your obt. svt.
A. P. Maury
Page 73

A memorandum of Military Services of Rich'd Vernon presumed to have been written by him – having, however no signature to it.

I her mean to memorize the service that I performed in the Revolution & Ware – [illegible] I went in to service about the 15 of February 1776 under Capt. John Leake and Col. James Martin _ after the Scotch Torrys in the lower part of North Carolinia and Continued in service with a 2nd call which completed a tour of three month.
[illegible] second I volunteered about the first of July 1776 and went to the Cherokee Nation of Indains under the aforesaid, Col. Martin and was Dischargd about the first of November something more then 3 months. This was a hard tower for I had 4 horses in the pack service and on our Return to a place Calld Caffeys forte I took the 3 sick men in Capt Leaks Company and Conducted them home. Imputed to be about 220 mile – the next tower I volunteered in the Companty of Leutent to go to Charles Towne in South Carolinia on the 23rd of February 1780 and got to a towne Called Monks Corner and there wer  defeatd by the British we Retretd back over Sante River and waited till Burgedeer general Caswell Came on from North Carolinia _ we then form a Ridgment and was Commandd by him. Charles Town serenderd we then Retreetd in to North Carolinia  and about the ninth of June we was Dismantle
And in 1779 Volenteer  as a Lutenat  under Capt George Peay on the 15 of Sept he served under Genl Davidson and the Capt was taken sick and I took Comand  of the Camy as Lutinanent [illegible] and Sarved three months
and about the first of February I was orderd by Capt Martin to Colect the Compy and March and Joine General Green at Guilford Cortehouse _ but was prevetd By the Enemy
Page 74

But Contineeud our March and Joind General Green at Halafax Courthous in Virginia and Continued under his Command till some time after the Battel at Guilford Courthouse in North Carolinia _ this tower served as Capt then on the 20th _ day of August 1781 I was appointd to inlist 30 men as Mountd infintry to serve with good horses and find our Selves _ while in this serviz I had two assursions in the Joining Country if the first one my self and I Lutennand with 28 men Captur  between 25 and 30 Torys Colected to Raiz a Campy to go to the British and Capt was Killd the same night about 2 miles of Us – this happed neer the old Regalation Battel ground – in a few weakz after we was Calld out again under Colo. Paseley and was Joyned  by Major Wm. Oneal of Orang County and we was Rainging after the Toreys a bout five Weakz  Col. Marls in his serificat mentions a Nomber More Towors  in the neghbouring  County after the Toreys Sem 20 Days 25 – 30 – 15 and ten Days
Page 75

House of Reps Fbr 1st 1847

Sir

The enclosed letter has been received by the heirs of Capt Richard Vernon & they have requested me to ascertain whether the [illegible] which it makes are true; or how much, if (any thing) they are entitled to receive from government on account of the services of their ancestor. I find that I have overlooked the paper [illegible] the whole of this session of Congress & have thus  neglected to comply with their request. May I hope that you will favour me with an early reply, that I may as far as possible repair my past neglect.

Very Respectfully
M P Gentry
Page 76

RECORD & PENSION OFFICE
SEP 27 1897
494078
WAR DEPARTMENT

Franklin Tenn.
Sept. 23, 1897

Richard Vernon.
Lt. & Capt. Leaks _ Peays Co. N. C. Troops
Rev. War.

Hon. N. N. Cox. N. C.
incloses Power of Atty to collect this officers pension from Mch. 4. 1831. To Mch 4. 1833, and asks what steps are necessary to collect same.
Requests reply sent to E. M.. Vernon, Nolensville, Tenns. 
Letter addressed to the Secretary of War.
1. Inclousure

[stamped] SECOND DEPUTY COMMISSIONER SEP 29 1897

Record and Pension Office, WAR DEPARTMENT
Washington, Sept’r. 27, 1897.

Respectfully transmitted to 
The Commissioner of Pensions, and Hon. N. N. Cox so advised.

1 inclo.

[stamped] OLD WAR & NAVY SEP 30 1897
Page 77

No. 1834.
The National Bank of Franklin,
D. S. CLIFFE, PRESIDENT.
JNO. B. McEWEN, VICE-PRESIDENT.
J. L. Parkes, CASHIER.
E. E. GREEN, ASS’T-CASHIER.

[stamped] SECOND DEPUTY COMMISSIONER SEP 19, 1897

Franklin, Tenn, Sept. 23, 1897

Hon. Secretary of War,
Washington D. C. 

Sir:
I herewith enclose a paper showing that Richard Vernon is entitled to a pension as a Revolutionary soldier.

Please inform me if this paper is of any value and what steps are necessary in order to secure to the heirs of Richard Vernon the amount heirs stated.

If any amount has ever been paid on said claim please advise me, and returns said paper with such instructions as are necessary in order to secure the amount so stated in said paper.

Very respectfully
N. N. Cox, M. C. 

Please address reply to
E. M. Vernon
Nolensville, Tenn.

[stamped] OLD ARMY & NAVY SEP 30 1897
Page 78

Rev. War.

1883

INVALID.
File No 1883
Richard Vernon
Lt. and Capt. N. C. Line

Act: June 7. 1832.
Index: - Vol. A, Page 286

[Arrangement of 1870]
Page 79

[entire document illegible]
Oct 7 91
E. M. Ver
Nolensville Tenn.
July 4th 9
Mrs. gentry
nklin
1931
1937
Page 80

[stamped] FAYETTEVILLE Te AUG 
FREE
J. L. Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City

Ten.
Aug 15
R'd. Vernont
Page 81

Fayetteville Tennessee July 30th 1835.

J. L. Edwards Esqr.

Although many of the remnant of men who participated in the struggle which freed us from British dominion are deep in the vale of poverty, and destitute of literary acquirements, it is worthy of remark that the most of them entertain and exercise a high of honor.  Such, at least, is the first of those with who I have the pleasure to be acquainted. Whatsoever their foibles may be, let an imputation be cast upon their veracity, or even let them imagine that the truth of their allegations is doubted, the pine which animated them when, in the name of life, they battled for that freedom we their sons enjoy, is rekindled and buried with unwanted [illegible]. Prompt to defend their own and others rights, and near ready to redress the [illegible], they will never do either at the expense of holy, sacred South.  I will not say that some of them are not fastidiously sensitive upon this subject. Be it so [illegible] if such a thing can be  - an entrance too name, a righteous fault.
Mr. John Gibson, at whose instance I now address to you, is of this class of men.  Feeling that his truth, in the affair of Vernon, might possibly be doubted, he determined to address such further testimony in the [illegible] as might be within his reach; and thus corroborated his own statements and aid the Department to assess at just conclusions. In conformity with this necessity he sometimes since wrote to Nathaniel Scales, Esquire (A relative of Gibson’s) Post Master at Mays, (Rockingham County.) North Carolina, requesting him to make certain inquiries. Mr. Scales answered him
Page 82

under date of July 6th. – I transcribe that portions of his letter which relates to Vernon, and give it to you verbatim et literations et punctuation.
“Captain Richard Vernon and his services during the war. I have made diligent inquiry about him, but almost all those old revolutionary worthies are now numbered with the dead, so that but little information can be obtained.  Mr. Chesley Barnes states that he was in the service with Mr. Vernon, but how long he served he cannot tell, tho he served some considerable time after he left.”
“Mr. William Wright states that he was in the service with him but how long he served he cannot tell. He further states that he does not recollect the date when Mr. Vernon left Rockingham but recollects that he was and had been living for several years near the mouth of the Mays River, that he has not been in this county since he left, to his certain knowledge. -  that he left the county by the aid of his children but at what time none has said – my own impression is that he moved away in 1825 or 6 and I am confident he has not been back since.  How he obtained Col. Martin’s affidavit is some what strange to me. I know of applications having been made to him by a friend of Blackhead Nat Scales of the state of Ohio, & the old gentleman replied that he has grown so old and the war had so long passed by that he could not identify any soldier who served under him.”
“I received a letter from a friend in the State of Indianna requesting me to apply to him and obtain his affidavit so as to enable him to draw a pension, I done so and he stated to me the same as stated in the case just related, Mr. Vernon having acted as Captain this might have strengthened his recollection so that he could safely made affidavit for him.”
“You also wish to know if Col. Martin is yet alive
Page 83

if not how and where he died. I think he died suddenly sometime in the latter part of last fall at his residence in Stokes County on Snow Creek.  It would therefore now be difficult to ascertain before whom the affidavit is question was made (if made at all”)

Hence Mr. Scales drops the subject, but near the conclusion of a very long letter upon domestic affairs, resumes it by briefly remarking, 
“Further Mr. William Wright stated that he did not think Capt. Vernon service more than twelve months.
Mr. Gibson desires me to say that the William Wright spoken of,  married the sister of Vernon’s wife; and that Wright & Vernon, throughout a long series of years, were in habit of close intimacy.
I may have, with propriety, observe that the letter to Scales contained nothing more upon the subject of Vernon’s claim, than a few plain questions of a nature calculated to illicit the above reply.
That V’s pension was suspended was not intimidated; and it was not hinted that Mr. Gibson had been called upon to testify. That such is the case I know, for I penned the letter.
If the foregoing meets your approbation I trust you will, for the gratification of Mr. Gibson, forward me with a line to that effect; and thus pluck a them – and I think the only one - from the [illegible] of a worthy soldier of the Revolution, who must we [illegible] became an inhabitant of a place where [illegible] will not be known.  With great respect I am, Sir
Your Obedient Servant
Isaac Southworth
Page 84

Rev. and 1812
Wars Section

April 7, 1930.
Mrs. John L. Brewer
Polk County High School
Benton, Tennessee.
Dear Madam:
I advise you, as stated in the last paragraph of our letter to you on March 26, 1920, that the names of children of Richard Vernon, (S. 1883) are not given.
Very truly yours,
E. W. MORGA 
Acting Commissioner.
Page 85

March 26, 1930.

Mrs. John L. Brewer
Polk County High School
Benton
Tennessee.

Dear Madam:
I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim S. 1883, it appears that Richard Vernon was born October 18, 1758 in Charlotte County, Virginia.
While residing in Guilford County, North Carolina, he served with the North Carolina troops as follows:

From February 15, 1776 three months as lieutenant in Captain John Leak's Company, Colonel James Martin's Regiment; Leak's Company. Colonel James Martin's Regiment, he was out against the Cherokee Indians; from February or March 1780 three months as lieutenant in Captain William Bethel's Company, Colonel James Brannon's Regiment, and was in the battle of Monck's Corner; from August 25, 1780 three months as lieutenant in Captain George Peay's Company Colonel John Pasley's Regiment; from February 1, 17481 about two months as captain in Colonel Martin's Regiment; from August 13, 1781 as captain of a Company of Horse for about three months, and he continued to serve under Colonels Pasley and Martin until the close of the war.
He was allowed pension on his application executed October 26, 1832, at which time he was living in Davidson County, Tennessee. In 1835 he was living in Williamson County, Tennessee.
Page 86

April 8, 1930.
Mrs. John L. Brewer
Polk County High School
Benton
Tennessee
Dear Madam:
I advise you that in the papers of the Revolutionary War pension claim S.1883, of Richard Vernon, the names of his parents are not given.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension the name of the person paid and possibly the date of death of the Revolutionary War pensioner (S.1883) you should apply to the Records Division, General Accounting Office, Washington, D. C.  citing all of the following data:
Richard Vernon
Certificate Number 8133
Rate - $189.33 per annum
Commenced September 4, 1834
Act of June 7, 1832
Tennessee Agency.
Very truly yours,
EARL. D. CHURCH
Commissioner.
Page 87

September 29, 1937
Richard Vernon
S. 1883
BA-J / AFF
Mrs. Byron M. Fast
10 Park View Place
West New Brighton
Staten Island, New York
Dear Madam:
The data furnished herein concerning Richard Vernon were obtained from papers on file in pension claim S. 1883, based upon his service in the War of the Revolution
Richard Vernon was born October 18, 1758 in Charlotte County, Virginia. The names of his parents were not given.
While residing in Guilford County, North Carolina, Richard Vernon served from February 15, 1776, three months as lieutenant in Captain Leak's company, Colonel James Martin's North Carolina regiment; and again in 1776, served three months as lieutenant in same company and regiment, in an expedition against the Cherokee Indians. He served in the sprig of 1780; three months as lieutenant in Captain William Bethel's company, Colonel James Brannon's North carolina regiment, and was in the battle of Monck's Corner. He served from August 25, 1780, three months as lieutenant in Captain George Peay's company, Colonel John Pasley's North Carolina regiment.  He served from February 1, 1781, about two months as captain in Colonel Martin's North Carolina regiment.  He served from August 13, 1781, about three months as captain of a company of horse, and continued to serve
Page 88

under Colonels Pasley and Martin until the close of the war.
Richard Vernon was allowed pension on his application executed October 26, 1832, at which time he was living in Davidson County, Tennessee. He was living in 1835 in Williamson County, Tennessee.
Reference was made to his wife and children, but no names were given.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, name and address of person paid, and possibly the date of death of this pensioner, you should apply to the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, Washington, D. C. , and furnish the following data:
Richard Vernon
Certificate #8133
Issued October 11, 1837
Rate $189.33 per annum
Commenced September 4, 1834
Act of June 7, 1832
Tennessee Agency.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator
Page 89

September 26, 1937
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
RICHARD VERNON
S. 39451
BA-J/MLB

Mrs. Byron M. Fast
10 Park View Place
West New Brighton
Staten Island, New York
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter of September 15, in which you request the Revolutionary War record of a Richard Vernon, of Culpeper County, Virginia, who died probably in Madison County, also, the record of a soldier of the same name whose wife was Martha Tinsley Vernon.
The record of Richard Vernon (S.39451) furnished you March 25, 1937, was that of the only soldier of the name, of Virginia, found in the Revolutionary War records of this office. It is not shown in his claim that he ever resided in Culpepr or Madison County, Virginia. You are furnished herewith the record of the only other soldier named Richard Vernon found in the Revolutionary War records of this office.  That soldier served from North Carolina and was pensioned while living in Tennessee. The name of his wife was not stated in the claim.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant
to the Administrator
Page 90

Admitted
8 months as Lieut $106 : 66 2/3
4 mo 4 ds Capt 82 : 66 2/3
$189 : 33

see letter to Hon. A. P. Maury,
Feb : 2. 1837.

Issue Certificate, as above, The Amount overpaid is not to be deducted. The Pension Agent will pay at the above rate, from the time to which the Pension was last paid.

Send Cert to Hon. A. P. Maury 
H. R.
Page 91

10 PARK VIEW PLACE
WEST NEW BRIGHTON
STATEN ISLAND, NEW YORK

Sept. 15, 1937.

War Department,
Veterans' Bureau,
Washington, D. C. 
Will you be kind enough to tell me if you have any record of Revolutionary War Service, for -

- Richard Vernon, Culpepper County Virginia, who died, likely, in Madison County?

If you have any record of pension granted to Richard Vernon, wife Martha Tinsley Vernon?

I should appreciate very much any reply you may be able to give me.

Yours truly,
Frances S. Fast,
Mrs. Byron  M. Fast.

Circular seal: RECEIVED SEP 17 1937 @ 11
Page 92

Polk County High School
ON ACCREDITED LIST SOUTHERN COLLEGE ASSOCIATION
OFFICE OF PRINCIPAL
BENTON, TENN.

[stamped] REVOLUTIONARY & 1812 WARS SECTION MAR 30 1930
BUREAU OF PENSIONS

March 17, 1930
Pension Bureau – 
Washington D. C.

Dear Sirs: -
From the information I am going to give you I am wondering if you can tell me dates of birth, death, reenlistment in Revolution of Richard Vernon.
Richard Vernon Captain of Company known as Captain Vernon’s Company of “Militia Light Horse” – North Carolina – His company was ordered by Colonel James Martin to collect deserters.
On November 8, 1781 he was ordered by the Governor Alex Martin to raise the Horsemen from his company & cause them to rendezvous at Salem on the thirteenth of November. He was ordered by Colonel James A. Martin to make search for a British Prisoner of war that had broken custody & deliver him to Major Mount Florence – 
I am so anxious to have the dates mentioned above & any family data that you might have – especially the name of widow & whether or not there are references to children. Thanking you  I am – 
Sincerely yours,
Mrs. J. L. Brewer
Page 93

Polk County High School
ON ACCREDITED LIST SOUTHERN COLLEGE ASSOCIATION
OFFICE OF PRINCIPAL
BENTON, TENN.

March 22, 1930

Pension Dept. 
Washington DC

Dear Sirs: -
Will you please send me date of birth, death & place of residence during Revolution of Richard Vernon.
The Richard Vernon to whom I am referring was Captain of a Company designated as “Captain Vernon's Company of Militia Light Horse” – North Carolina. He was ordered by Colonel James Martin to collect deserters & delinquents & on November 8, 1781 he was ordered by the Governor Alex Martin to raise ten Horsemen & cause them to rendezvous at Salem. If you have the above dates on your files I should be so grateful if you will send them immediately Should like so much to have them by April 4th.
Sincerely yours,
Mrs. John L. Brewer
Page 94

Polk County High School
ON ACCREDITED LIST SOUTHERN COLLEGE ASSOCIATION
OFFICE OF PRINCIPAL
BENTON, TENN.

March 29, 1930
Pension Bureau – 
Washington D. C

Dear Sirs: -
Will you please give me the date of the death of Richard Vernon whose pension claim was S.1883 - If you do not have a recored of the date of death will you please give me dates of last pension paid him (He was allowed a pension on his application of October 26, 1832 while living in Davidson County)
With this information will you please give me the names of his parents. - 
If you can answer these questions through your records I shall be very grateful to you.

Sincerely yours,
Mrs. John L. Brewer

[stamped] PENSION N OFFICE. U. S. MAR 31 1930
Page 95

Polk County High School
ON ACCREDITED LIST SOUTHERN COLLEGE ASSOCIATION
OFFICE OF PRINCIPAL
BENTON, TENN.

Pension Bureau – 
Washington D. C.

Dear Sirs: -
Could you advise me how to go about getting date of marriage & wife's name, also name of at least one child of Richard Vernon whose pension claim is S1883 - and who was known as "Captain Vernon of militia light horse" - North Carolina -
I am very anxious to have this information by April twelth  - I am particularly interested in having the name of at least on his children - 
Thanking you if you will look through your records for this information or advise me where I might find same.

Sincerely your,
Mrs. John L. Brewer
Page 96

G'' Chadwells
Affidavit
Page 97

State of Tennessee}
Williamson County}

Personally appeared George Chadwell before me Levi Crosby an acting Justice of the Peace in and for Said County and made oath in due form of law that Richard Vernon a residents of the aforementioned state and county made application through him to Col. James Martin of North Carolina for a certificate showing that Richard served as a soldier in the revolutionary war the Deponent says that there was given to him a Document purporting to be a certificate to that effect which certificate Said Deponent Delivered to Said Richard Vernon Sworn to and Subscribed before me March 11th 1837 
G’’ Chadwell
Levi Crosby J P

The State of Tennessee SS.
I Lemuel B. McConnico clerk of the county courts of Williamson county in the State of Tennessee aforesaid to certify that Lei Crosby whose signature appears to the foregoing affidavit of George Chadwell is now and was at the taking of such affidavit an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Williamson do commissioned and Sworn and that full faith and credit are due his acts as such In Testimony whereof I have hereunto Subscribed my name and affixed the Seal of Said courts at office this 19th day of August A D 1837
Lemuel B McConnico
[outline of seal with pointed edging]
Page 98

State of Tennessee}
Williamson County}

Personally appeared John W. Miller and acting Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Williamson Saml C. Peay and made oath that Richard Vernon a resident of the county of Williamson in the State of Tennessee handed to him a Leter to Col. James Martin of North Carolina – the contents of the leter was for a certificate Showing that he had served as a Soldier in the Revolutionary war I handed Said Leter to Alfred Scales the soninlaw of Col Martin who promised to deliver Said Leter to Col Martin which he did as Said Scales has since told me.
Sworn to and Subscribed before me this 19 day of Augt AD 1837
John W. Miller JP} Sam. C. Peay

The State of Tennessee SS
I Lemuel B. McConnico clerk of the county court of Williamson county in the State of Tennessee aforesaid do certify that John W. Miller whose signature appears to the foregoing affidavit of Samuel C Peay is now and was at the taking of Such affidavit an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Williamson aforesaid duly commissioner and Sworn and that full faith and credit are due his official acts as such
In testimony whereof I have hereto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of said court at office this 19th day of August AD 1837
L. B. McConnico
Page 99

Temple of Health SC}
20th Jany 1831
25 (C)

Richard Vernon Esqr.
State of Tennessee
Williamson County
Nolensville Post. office
-  mail -
Page 100

(C)
State of Tennessee}
Abbeville District}

Personally came and appeared before me Austin Smith and made oath in due form of law and saith, that he was well acquainted with Richard Vernon during the Revolutionary war. That he the said Richard Vernon was first Lieutenant of a company of Militia formed at Gilford Courthouse in the State of North Carolina under the command of Captain William Bethell, for the releaf and defense of Charleston South Carolina. The Regiment Commanded by Colonel Banyon General Caswells division (or Bregade), that he left Gilford some time in the month of March 1780 and entered the State of South Carolina about the first of April following; that they marched to Camden, and from thence to a place called monkscorner where they understood that the British had entered and taken the town so as to render it impossible to give any assistance to the Town, that on the 11th of April they were attacted by the Bitish under Colonel Tarlton, and routed. At monkscorner, that after that rout they collected and marched to a place called the big Savanah on the Santee River, where they Remained untill General Caswells Brigade came on they then marched to Dufren as a guard on the ferry untill they heard of the compleat fall of Charleston. That they then fell back to Camden with General Caswells & thence to North Carolina where their term of servis  [illegible], and this deponent further states that he was with the said Richard Vernon on September 1780 under the comand of colonel Pasely, Regiment  North Carolina Militia under General Davison a three months tour which servese the said Richard Vernon acted as Lieutenant Commandant, and in conclusion he saith that the said Richard Vernon was a good soldier and a true friend to his country 
Austin Smith 
Sworn to and Subscribed this 18th day of January 1831 before me
Jame A. Black J. P.}
Page 101

South Carolina}
Abbeville District}
I James A. Black a Justice of Quorum in and for the District aforesaid do hereby certify that I have been well acquainted with Austin Smith the witness deponent for twentyfive years. he is a man of truth & honor and due faith and credit should be given to any thing that he wold Say or Swear.
18th January 1831.
James A. Black J. Q.
Page 102

[stamped]
FRANKL
NOV 6
Free

J. L. Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washinton City
Page 103

Franklin Tennessee
November 6, 1836

D Sir:
In a late conversation with an old Gentleman on the subject of pensions he reported to a Richard Vernon of Williamson county of this State who is drawing perhaps four Hundred & seventy four dollars & who he said to his knowledge now served in all the revolutionary war more than five months and from what I have heard from others there is perhaps some mistake & Sd Vernon may be justly Entitled to the amt allowed him  Those old soldiers who served 12 18 or 24 months having since services are not able to understand the difference between the pay of a Captain or Lieutenant & a private - said John Gibson of Lincoln County Tennessee and John Fields Cgyman of Rockingham County N.Carolina personally acquainted with said Vernon the time and memories of the service he was Engaged in & they can refer you if necessary to others.
Page 104

State of Tennessee}
Davidson County}

Personally appeared Peter Lesley before me William H. Nance an acting Justice of the peace for Said County and made oath that he said Lesley was well acquainted with Richard Vernon during the Revolution war that sometime early in the Spring of 1780 we [illegible] at Gilford  Courthouse State of North Carolina under William Bethel Capt and said Richard Vernon Lieutenant Robert Nelson Ensign we then took the line of march to South Carolina by way to Solsbury whare we met with General Rutherford who gave us our orders to march to Charlestown by way of Camdon to monks corner whare we understood that the  British had surounded Charlestown so that we coud not get in there whare we lay a few dayz and was roughted by the enemy under Cornal Tarlton from thence we retreated to the north side of the Santee river whare we lay till the arival Brigadear general William Caswell from North Carolina we then joined a ridgament Caled the third ridgement of North Carolina Militia Colonel James Bianou our field officer whare we continued as gards to the feries on said river – untill we heard that Charlestown had surrendered to the British we then retreated to North Carolina by way of Camdon from thence to the Charaw hills on the Padee river from thence to Fayette in North Carolina whare we ware detached under the Command of Col. McDowell to gard some waggons loded with publick Sault to the County of Mecklenburg North Carolina our time of service being out when we was disbanded to return to our own homes the above is [illegible] the said Lieutenant Richard Vernon and Said Peter Lesly this deponent further states that he was caled out on a tower of duty about 25th of August in the year 1780 under Capt ArthirForbus Lieutenant William Gilmore Ensign Alexander Elson in a ridgement  of Militia under Commanded by Col. John Pasely of Gilford County North Carolina and under the Command of Brigadear General Davidson, and this three months tower was princable  served in the Counties of Roan and Macklenburge and further Saith that several events took place whelst he was on this tower of duty which said Richard Vernon remindes  him of that makes said deponent – believe that said Richard Vernon must have been in said service
Page 105

one event which said Lieutenant Richard Vernon states that one evening when we ware dismissed from parade the Ajatent gave word to face to the right about and lodge arms and a gun fired accidentally and shot one John Brawley through the body and he fell ded and said deponent heard the gun and saw the man fall and died as said Vernon states and the ridgment was discharged about the 25th November 1780 Camp new providence and further this deponent saith not Sworn to and Subscribed before me this 28th day of August 1832.
Peter Lesley
William H. Nance JP
I certify that I have known Peter Lesley about twenty five years and have lived within three miles distance for the above time and said Lesley is a man of truth and strict honour and honesty therefore full faith should be given to what he saith given under my hand this 28th day of August 1832.
William H. Nance JP