Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 24,471, for Pardon Lake, Rhode Island
Page 1

(8-1776)

Service
R.J.

Lake, Pardon
Ruth

Number
W.24.471
B.L.Wt.13002-160-55
Page 2

[left side of page]
Cir B.F. Winslow Nov 3d /55
Cet [ditto] [ditto] 13 [ditto]

Vol L. Page 5.

[right side of page]
76185 Act Mar 3/
Apr 18 '55 ['55 indicated for this and line above]
Ruth Lake widow
Pardon Lade Priv
Pardon Lake
R.I. State Troops
Ent.
[illegible]
Revry War
Revy pensioner
R.I. Feby 48 3374
Bu [obscured]
[overwritten across the above] No 13002 iss Dec 27 /55
W: 160 A Crs Dec 21 /55
BDYW

Benjm F. Winslow
Fall River Mass
[illegible overwritten across above]
Page 3

15518
Rhode Island
Pardon Lake
of Newport in the State of R. Island
who was a Private in the Company commanded
by Captain Barton of the Rgt. commanded
by Col Elliott in the R Island
line for 1 year in infantry
1 year in artillery

Inscribed on the Roll of R Island
at the rate of 90 Dollars - Cents per annum
to commence on the 4th day of March 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 21st day of June
1833 and sent John
Cross Portsmouth R.I.

Arrears to the 4th of Mar 1833 $180.00
Semi-anl allowance ending 4 Sept 45.00
[total] $225.00

Revolutionary Claim,
Act June 7, 1832.
Recorded by D.D. Addison Clerk
Book # Vol. 2d Page 119
Page 4

Reg 3d 55 76185
Reported
Jany 26 '49


35/[remainder torn from page]
Rhode Island
Ruth Lake
widow of Pardon Lake
RI
who served in the Revolutionary 
war, as a Pri of Infantry
arty

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 
90 Dollars -
Cents per annum, to commence on 
the 4th day of Marc, 1848

Certificate of Pension issued the
26 day of Jany 1849
and sent to 
Hon A.C. Greene
R.I. Senate.

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act
[January] 2, 1848, Page 13 Vol. 3
Page 5

I Abigail Gray of Tiverton in the County of Newport and
State of Rhode Island of lawful age do testify and say and
on my oath give the following deposition
I was born and always lived in the town of Tiverton and
was always acquainted with Pardon Lake of said town a
pensioner now deceased, and with his wife Ruth Lake.
said Ruth's maiden name was Ruth Macomber, she
lived for several years before her marriage with said
Pardon, in my father's family, her parents being both dead.
the said Pardon Lake and said Ruth were married
by Elder Peley Burroughs at my fathers house; I was
some years younger then said Ruth and lived at home
with my father and was at the wedding. It was the
first wedding I ever saw, and I remember it as well as
though it was a few days ago; and many of the people
that were present, but I dont know of any now living
they were married according to the best of my recollection
and belief as much as fifty six or fifty seven years ago.
I recollect they were married in the winter time, but
the particular month or day of the month I do not remember.
 they were married previous to the first day
of January Seventeen hundred and ninety four.
I recollect that after they were married, said Pardon
and Ruth and my father and mother and other of the
wedding quests went to Giles Lake, the father of said
Pardon, to hold the rest of the wedding time.
Said Pardon and his wife after their marriage lived in
my father's house; they lived there when they had
their first child. Said Ruth now lives in said
Tiverton, where she has always lived, and has never
married since the decease of her husband the said
Pardon, but continues his widow.
Abigail Gray

State of Rhode Island}
County of Newport } S.S.
Be it known, that on the first day of December A.D. 1843
Page 6

before the Subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said
County personally appeared Abigail Gray and subscribed
her aforegoing Deposition and made oath to the truth of the 
same, and I further certify that said Deponent is a person
of credibility
Asa Gray Justice of the Peace

State of Rhode Island}
County of Newport } SS
I Daniel C. Denham Clerk of the Court of
Common Pleas in the County aforesaid being a
Court of Record do hereby certify that Asa Gray
is a Justice of the Peace in the Town of Tiverton
and commissioned by the Governor of this State
and is fully authorized to act in his said
capacity. And that his signature aforewritten is Genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and affixed the seal of
the said Court at Newport on this sixth
day of January A.D. eighteen hundred
and forty four. Daniel C. Denham Clerk
Page 7

10497
Ruth Lake
R.Id.
Act 7 July 38
[illegible] 1788

Asa Gray Esq
Tiverton
R.Id
Page 8

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7 July 1838 entitled "an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows."
State of Rhode Island
County of Newport S.S.
On this eighth day of September A.D. 1843 personally appeared before me the subscriber Joseph Childs a Justice of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County of Newport a Court of Record, Ruth Lake of Tiverton in the County and State aforesaid aged seventy six years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed July 7, 1838 entitled "an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows."

That she is the widow of Pardon lake late of said Tiverton deceased who was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. That he at said Tiverton on March 1777 enlisted into Capt Vaughns Company of Artillery and served a year; that after his discharge from said Company he served in the Militia in Tiverton and also in a Company in Col Tophams Regiment. That the said Pardon was a pensioner under the law of the United States of the 7 June 1832 at the rate of Ninety Dollars per annum and for proof of his services she respectfully refers to the evidence on file with his Declaration made in 1832.

She further declares that she was married to the said Pardon Lake on the first day of January in the year Seventeen hundred and eighty eight by Peleg Burroughs a minister of the Gospel at P Tiverton. That her husband the aforenamed Pardon Lake died on the twentieth day of May in the year eighteen hundred and thirty nine; that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January Seventeen hundred and ninety four. viz at the time above stated and that she has never married since his decease
Signed in my presence
Asa Gray
Ruth her X mark Lake

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I further certify that said Ruth Lake cannot from bodily infirmity attend in the Court. And I further certify that she is a credible person.
Joseph Childs Justis [sic] C.C. Pleas
Page 9

State o Rhode Island
County of Newport ss
I Daniel C. Denham Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in the County aforesaid being a Court of Record do hereby certify that Joseph Childs is a Justice of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Newport was commissioned by the Governor of this State and is fully authorized to act in his said capacity. And that his signature aforewritten is Genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court at Newport on this thirtieth day of October one thousand eight hundred and forty three. 
Daniel C Denham Clerk
Page 10

State of Massachusetts, County of Bristol. On this sixteenth day of April A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for the county and state aforesaid, Ruth Lake, aged ninety years, a resident of Tiverton in the county of Newport and State of Rhode Island, who, being duly sworn according to law declares that she is the identical person named in an original certificate in her possession of which I Benjamin F Winston Justice of the Peace aforesaid certify the following to be a true copy.
War Department, Widows Pension:
I certify that in conformity with the act of February 2d 1848, Ruth Lake, widow of Pardon Lake who was a Pri of Infty & artillery in the revolutionary war is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of ninety dollars per annum commencing on the 4th of March 1848 and continuing for life unless she should again marry in which case the pension is not payable after the time of such marriage. Given at the War Office of the United States this 16th day of January one thousand eight hundred and forty nine. W L Marcy Secretary of War [signed: "LS."]
Examined and Countersigned J.G. [illegible]
That she now resides in Tiverton in the state of Rhode Island. That she has not intermarried, but continued the widow of the abovementioned Pardon Luke. That her said certificate is recorded in the Pension office on the roll of Pensioners under act February 2d 1848, Page 13, Vol 3. (Leo Jenkins, Clerk) She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which she may be entitled under the act approved the 3rd day of March 1855. She also declares that
Page 11

she has not received a land warrant for bounty land under this or any other act of Congress nor made any other application therefor. And that she prays that the certificate of the bounty land to which she may be entitled may be sent for her to Benjamin F Winslow, Fall River, Mass. [signed: "Ruth Lake"]
We Hannah R Fisher and Catherine Smith, residents of Fall River in the State of Massachusetts, upon our oaths declare, that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Ruth Lake 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. [signed: "Hannah R Fisher Catherine Smith"]
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year first herein before written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim. Benjamin F Winslow Justice of the Peace
Page 12

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
County of Bristol
Police Court Fall River. Mass, April 16, 1855
I hereby certify that at the date of the foregoing attestation Benjamin F Winslow was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Bristol in said Commonwealth duly commissioned and constituted and that his acts and attestations as such full faith and credit are and ought to be given in and out of court. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the Seal of Said Court, the date above written. [illegible] Clerk of the Police Court Fall River Massachusetts, Bristol County
Page 13

No 18867
Pardon Lake Newport County Rhode Island
1 year Private of Infantry
1 " " of Artillery
Admd
[illegible] portsmouth Rhode Island
Page 14

BRIEF in the case of Pardon Lake County of Newport in the State of Rhode Island (Act 7th June, 1832)
1. Was the declaration made before a Court of Judge? Court
2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity? [blank]
3. How old is he? 70 years
4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed.
[table with 4 columns: "Period. | Duration of Service (years, months, days.) | Rank. | Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served.]
Enlisted In 1777 March until 1778 March | 1 (year) | Artillery | Gen Prescott, Genl Cornell, Varnum, Col Elliot, Col Barton, Genl Spencer |
enrolled  & draft 1778 | 2 months | private | Cap B Borden, Cap E Slocum |
Enlisted 1778 Sept | 6 months | private | Cap Jos Springer, Col Topham Regt |
Drafted " | [illegible] | private | Cap Slocum |
Vol 1779 | 3 months | private | Genl Cornell |
Drafted 1781 | 1 month | private | Cap Howland |
[/table]
5. In what battles was he engaged? None stated
6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Tiverton Rhode Island
7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? Traditionary & 2 living witnesses certified credible, no clergymans certificate.
8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? Correct
Certify that the foregoing statement and answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned. 
[illegible] Examining Clerk
Page 15

DECLARATION.
IN ORDER TO OBTAIN THE BENEFIT OF THE ACT OF CONGRESS, PASSED JUNE 7, 1832. STATE OF RHODE ISLAND. COUNTY OF Newport SS
On this Twenty second day of September 1832 personally appeared in open Court before the Judges or Justices of the Court of Probate of the Town of Tiverton now sitting, Pardon Lake, a resident of Tiverton in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island aged seventy years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress, passed June 7, 1832. That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated.
That she says: He in the month of March 1777, enlisted into Captain Vaughns Company, at Tiverton aforesaid, and was stationed at the lower fort at Howlands Ferry, on the spot where the Baptist meeting house now stands.  This company was of the artillery and belonged he believes to Col Elliots Regiment of the state line. He does not remember that he saw Col Elliot or any of the superior officers of the Artillery during his service, as his company were all the time in the fort. But he remembers to have seen during this service at said Howlands Ferry in Tiverton. Col Barton who went onto Rhode Island and brought off General Prescott, General Cornell, Gen Varnum and General Spencer. He served in this company till about the middle of March 1778 when he was discharged at sd Howlands Ferry.
He then returned home and was enrolled in the 2d or middle company of Militia of said Tiverton, under the command of Capt Benjamin Borden and was drafted from said company for two several times for a month each up to July 1778. He was at these times stationed in guarding the shores of Tiverton from Howlands Ferry to Hogland Ferry and these and these services he was under the command of Capt Borden and Capt Ebenezer Slocum.
In the month of September 1778 and soon after the retreat of the American Troops from the Island of Rhode Island under General Sullivan, he enlisted at Tiverton aforesaid into Capt Joseph Spencers Company in Col Tophams Regiments, in the years service of the state line. He cannot now remember the other company officers, one Handy was adjutant during this service. He was stationed at Howlands ferry in company with other troops under the command of General Ezekiel Cornell. He served in this company till March of 1779. it being ten months when he was discharged at said Howlands ferry in Tiverton.
He then returned home and was again drafted from od 2d company of militia in Tiverton to which he belonged for for these several times of a month each, according to the best of his recollection and served during said times as before in guarding the shores of the town from the enemy who occupied the Island of Rhode Island and who were
Page 16

continually committing depradations on all parts of the shores which were not well defended by a military force. During these terms he was under Capt. Slocum. He cannot be precise as to the date of these several drafts, but he well remembers that while he was at home, and in the militia company that he was drafted and had to be on duty about half the time, and that the drafts were for one month at a time. The last of these aforesaid terms of service he thinks was in Sept 1779.
In October 1779 he entered as a volunteer into a company that was encamped with their tents near the Barker House on the high land a short distance Northerly of Howlands Ferry in Tiverton. He thinks this company were from Massachusetts and he does not now remember the officers names. In this company he served nearly or quite a month while it lay encamped as aforesaid to the Northerly of Howlands Ferry. We then understood that the enemy were to leave Newport. We crossed over, on to Rhode Island with other troops, but who had the chief command he does not know, but believes that General Cornell had. We [illegible] the first night on the Island as far as Quaker Hall in Portsmouth, where we heard the English fleet had not left the harbour of Newport. And here, we set a guard quite across the Island from East to West. The next day hearing that the fleet had sailed we marched into Newport and the company which I belonged were stationed in the huts that the Hessians had left north of the town of Newport and west of the main road, and the present residence of Joseph Inch Esq. at this time there were a number of troops in Newport under the command of General Cornell. He also remembers Col Tophams who he thinks had the command of sd company to which he belonged. His service in said company three months when he was discharged at Newport and he returned home. Again in the month of August or September 1781 he was drafted from sd company of Militia, for one month and was marched to Newport and was stationed on Brenton Neck during times. At this time he was commanded by Capt Howland, but does not know what Regt he was attached to, nor does he remember any other officer in command at the time. This was the last active military service he performed during the War of the Revolution.
And said Pardon Lake avows that he faithfully and truly performed the aforesaid services in this country's defence in the Revolutionary War making in all twenty seven months.
And he further declares that he was born in said Tiverton on the 15th day of August 1762, as the record herewith will shew. That he lived in sd Tiverton when called into the aforesaid services. And since the Revolutionary War has resided herein, where he still doth live. That he never received any written discharge from any of said services, but was verbally discharged by his commanding officers.
Page 17

That he has no documentary evidence of any of said services. That there is no clergyman in his neighborhood or vicinity. but he refers to Peter Estes and George Lawton Esq who are his neighbors and citizens of said town of Tiverton who testify to his character for veracity and to their belief that he was a soldier of the Revolution and also to the accompanying depositions the aforementioned services performed as a private [illegible].
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any state. Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid. Pardon Lake
Asa Gray Clerk
We, Peter Estes Esq residing in the Town of Tiverton aforesaid and George Lawton Esq residing in (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with Pardon Lake who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be seventy 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 to and subscribed the day aforesaid. Peter Estes George Lawton Asa Gray Clerk
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 Peter Estes Esq who has signed the preceding certificate, is a resident in said town of Tiverton and that George Lawton Esq who has also signed the same is a resident in the same Tiverton. And are credible persons, and that their statement is entitled to credit, And said court moreover further certifies that the depositions of Gideon Gifford & Giles Manchester hereto annexed were severally sworn to & subscribed this day, before this Court, and that the said deponents are credible persons. 

I Asa Gray Clerk of the Court of Probate of the Town of Tiverton in the County & State aforesaid, a Court of Record, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court, in the matter of the application of Pardon Lake for a pension. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this twenty second day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two. And of American Independence the fifty seventh. Asa Gray Clerk of Court of Probate.
Page 18

Town Clerk Office, Tiverton, in the County of Newport, & State of Rhode Island. This 20th day of Sept. 1832 I hereby certify that Pardon Lake, son of Giles Lake and Agnes Lake his wife, was born the fifteenth day of August Ad 1762 as appears of record in this office. Asa Gray Town Clerk
Page 19

[upper left corner: "V.L.[illegible]"]
Rev. War Section.
February 23, 1917
Mr. W. J Harrison,
308 State Street,
Boston Mass.
Madam:
In response to your letter dated the 16th instant, you are advised that the data and place of marriage of the Revolutionary War pensioners, Pardon and Ruth Lake (W. File No. 24,471) was furnished in the record sent you January 27, 1917. They were married by Peleg Burroughs, a minister of the Gospel, also called Elder Peleg Burroughs, at the house of the father of Abigail Gray, the name of said father is not stated. Very respectfully, GW Saltzgabar Commissioner.
Page 20

Reported
10473
Rhode Island
Ruth Lake Widow of Pardon Lake who was a pensioner under the Act of 1832 and who died on the 20th May, 1839 of Newport in the State of [illegible} who was a Pri of Infy & Pri of Artillery commanded by Captain Barton of the Regt commanded by Col Elliot in the Revolution line for 2 years. Inscribed on the Roll of Providence at the rate of 90 Dollars --- cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March 1836 & Joint Reso: 23 Jany 1845.
Certificate of Pension issued the 21st day of August 1841 and sent to [illegible]" AG Green Senate RI 
Total Amount $450.00
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by [illegible] Clerk. Book 2, Vol. 1 Page 111
Page 21

Reported Rhode Island 8399
Roth Lake widow of Pardon Lake who was a Pri of Infy & Pri of Artillery in the Revolution. [illegible] 20th May 1839.
 Inscribed on the Roll at the Rate of 90 Dollars --- cents per annum, to commence the 4th day of March 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 21st day of August 1848 and sent to Hon AC Green US Senator [Acts of March 3, 1843, and June 17, 1844.] Recorded in book A. Vol. 2, Page 45
Page 22

Act 43 9500
N 10494 N Rev 395
Ruth Lake
W of Pardon
RJ
Act 7 July 1838 and Joint Resolution of 23 January 1845
admd
12 mo pri of Infantry 40.00
12 " " " Artillery 50.00
$90.00
from 4 March 1836 to 4 March 1841
Admd Acts 3 March 1843 17 June 44 & 2 Feby 48
$90.00 per annum from 4 March 1843 Hon AC Green Senate [illegible]
Page 23

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
Newport County SS. On this seventh day of August in the year Eighteen hundred and forty eight personally appeared before the Court of Probate for the town of Tiverton, a Court of Record, Ruth Lake, a resident of said town of Tiverton in said county of Newport, aged eighty one years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7, 1838, entitled "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows." That she is the widow of Pardon Lake, late of Tiverton aforesaid deceased who was a private in the militia and served as such in the American Revolution, as fully appears from the evidence accompanying application of him said Pardon Lake for a pension made to and filed in the Pension or other proper office, in the year eighteen hundred & thirty [crossed out]. and said Ruth Lake upon her same oath further declares that her said husband, said Pardon Lake, while in life drew a pension of ninety six dollars per annum from the general government for his said services, in said revolution.
She further declares that she was married to said Pardon Lake on the first day of January seventeen hundred and eighty six The aforesaid Pardon Lake died on the twentieth day of May 1839. 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 ninety four, viz. at the time above stated. She furthers swears that she is now a widow, and that she has never before made any application for a pension. [signed: "Ruth Lake"]
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before [illegible] Probate Clerk
Deponent says that Pardon Lake [illegible] between 1830 and 1837, the precise year she does not recollect. [illegible] Probate Clerk
Page 24

State of Rhode Island, Newport County SS
[illegible] August eighth 1848
This may certify that the within [illegible] Charles Harper is Clerk of the Court of Probate for the town of Tiverton and that he is duly authorized to certify all  [illegible] said Court. Given under my hand and seal the day & year aforewritten.  Peter Gray [illegible] of Court of Probate of Tiverton
Page 25

State of Rhode Island
County of Newport SS
On this eighth day of September 1848, personally appeared before the subscriber, a Justice of Peace in and for the county of Newport a resident of Tiverton in the county of Newport aged eighty two years, who being first duly 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 on the 2d of February, 1848, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war: -- That she is the Widow of Pardon Lake who was a Private in the War of the Revolution, and that she received a pension of ninety dollars per annum, under the Act of 17th of June, 1844. She further declares that she is still a widow. [signed: "Ruth Lake"]
Sworn and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me, ss [signed: "Wm Huffield"] Justice of the Peace

I certify the above named affiant is personally known to me, and that she is the same individual who drew a pension as stated by her in the foregoing affidavit. [signed: "William P Huffield"] Justice of the Peace
State of Rhode Island County of Newport SS
I William Gilpin Clerk of the Supreme Court in the county aforesaid, being a Court of Record, do hereby certify, that William P Huffield is a Justice of the Peace in the county aforesaid, and is fully authorized to act in said capacity, and that his signatures above written are genuine. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Newport on this sixteenth day of September 1848.
[signed: "Wm Gilpin Clerk Sup. Court"]
Page 26

sion on file in this Bureau. Pardon Lake [illegible] File 24471
[table with 5 columns: "DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. | LENGTH OF SERVICE. | RANK. | OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED (CAPTAIN. COLONEL.) | STATE.]
[writing is faint and hard to read]
1777 1778 | Pvt | [illegible] Elliot | R.I. |
1778 | 2 mos | | Benjamin Barton Ebenezer Slocum  | | 
1778 6 mos | | Joseph Springer  Topham | |
1779 | 3 mos 3 mos | |  Slocum Topham| |
1781 | [illegible] | | Howland | |
[end table]

Battles engaged in, [blank]
Resident of soldier at enlistment, [Tiverton, RI]
Date of application for pension, [illegible]
Residence at date of application, Tiverton, Newport Co, RI
Age at date of application, [illegible]
Remarks; [illegible]
Very Respectfully,
Page 27

I Giles Manchester of Tiverton in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island Aged seventy three years, on solemn oath depose and say: That I am now, and was during the Revolutionary War, well acquainted with Pardon Lake of Tiverton, who is now an applicant for a pension. 
Soon after the battle on Rhode Island, and the threat of the Army from sd Island. (I then belonged to Capt Dedam's Company Col Elliots regiment) I saw said Lake who was then a soldier in Col Tophams regiment often we were encamped close together on the high land near Howlands Ferry. Our regiments were stationed in Fort Barton. And Col Tophams Regiment in the Barracks not more than fifty rods distant. I saw him frequently during the winter of 1779. And until his time was out in March of that year.
I have also seen him before, and after, said times that he was in Col Tophams Regiment in the militia, in the public service, doing duty, at diverse times, in guarding the shores of Tiverton, at Howlands ferry and at diverse places from there to Hogland ferry. I belonged also to the militia at the same time. We were drafted for one month at a time. And served for one half of the time, but how long sd Lake served in said militia he cannot say. He further saith not. [signed: Giles Manchester his mark "X"]
Sworn to and subscribed before the Court of Probate this 22nd day of Sept 1832. Asa Gray Clerk
Page 28

I Gideon Gifford of Portsmouth in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island, aged sixty five years on solemn oath depose and say, that while the British troops had possession of Rhode Island, I resided in Tiverton near Howlands Ferry, and was at that time and before acquainted with Pardon Lake of said Tiverton an applicant for a Pension under the late Act of Congress. I frequently saw him serving in an Artillery Company commanded by Capt. Vaughn at the lower fort at Howlands Ferry in said Tiverton in the year 1777. But what length of time he served I do not know; I was but a lad myself but living within one hundred rods of said fort I used frequently to go to see the soldiers and particularly said Lake, with whom I was before well acquainted and further this deponent saith not. [signed: "Gideon Gifford"]
Sworn to and subscribed before the Court of Probate this 22nd day of Sept 1832. Asa Gray Clerk
Page 29

[folded paper so words are obscured]
Mass..
brief sketch
- great - 
the war
(Borden) Brayton
Clerk
Page 30

Rev Act 2d Feb '48
RJ [illegible]
Page 31

Pardon Lake RI Act 7 June 1832 $90.00 per ann
To what truce was he last paid?
Decd 20th May 1839
Paid to his death BLB
Pension Office
August 16, 1848
Page 32

13.002
Rev [illegible]
Page 33

10497
Ruth Lake
RI
Sent to A. Gray Sept 5 1844
Act 7 July 1838
Page 34

Pardon Lake 18867
Page 35

W.J. Harrison Prest. E.L Harrison Treas.
Harrison Bros. Co.
Butter, Cheese, & Eggs
208 State St
[image: "CRESCENT CREAMERY TRADE MARK HARRISON BROS CO BOSTON"]
[image: "TRADE MARK MONARCH CREAMERY Harrison Bros Co. Boston"]
Cable Address: Harrisonco, Boston. Phone, Richmond 452
Boston, Jan 18 1917
Pension Bureau Washington D.C.
Gentlemen: Ruth Lake widow of Pardon Lake of Tiverton Newport County R.I. was granted Revolutionary Pension between 1840 and 1850. Will you please advise me if the papers filed by her show the date of their marriage? Thanking you in advance I am with kind regards Very truly yours W.J. Harrison
Page 36

24471
[handwritten: "Revy"] WIDOW, &c.
File No 24.471
Ruth Lake Wid of Pardon Lake Pri Rev War
Act Feb 2nd 1848
Index:- Vol. A, Page 421
[Arrangement of 1870]
Page 37

1893 Jan 21 Hist to AB Brayton Fall River Mass JS
Sept 15'96
[illegible] to Miss Helen W Borden [illegible] Fall River Mass
Feby 8 1900 LL Anderstrom Bristol RI
Jany 17 1903 Chas B Lawton  [illegible]
1909 Sept 22 Hist to Evelyn E Albro, [ilegible]
1917 Jany 27 Hist to HJ Harrison
1917 Feby 23 WJ Harrison furnished additional data
Page 38

I Hope Robinson of Sidney in the County of Kennebec and State of Maine do affirm testify and state. That I shall be in the month of July next eighty one years old. I was born in the town of Tiverton, Rhode Island, my maiden name was Hope Grinnell. I am the present wife of Richard Robinson of Sidney aforesaid. I have been married to said Robinson about sixty years. Pardon Lake & Ruth Macomber were born and lived in said Tiverton. I knew them well & was well acquainted with them. I was present and witnessed the marriage ceremony when the said Pardon Lake & Ruth Macomber were married. My present husband was also present with me. They were married some time before I was but precise time I do not recollect. I know that I have been married about sixty years. My oldest son by my present husband after our marriage which was [illegible] that of the said Pardon & Ruth is now above fifty nine years old. After their marriage the said Pardon Lake and Ruth Macomber lived together as husband and wife. [Signed: Hope Robinson her mark "X"]
Witnsesed by Francis Davis Kennebec SS on this seventeenth day of May AD 1848. The above named.
Page 39

Hope Robinson personally appeared before me the subscriber one of the Justices of the Peace. disinterested in any uses which may be made of the foregoing affidavit and for the county of Kennebec aforesaid and solemnly affirmed. The said Hope Robinson being a member of the society of Friends to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by her subscribed in my presence The foregoing affidavit was written by me in the said Justice and carefully read by me in the presence and hearing of said Hope Robinson before her signature was attached there by her. And I further certify that the same Hope Robinson is a woman of truth and veracity and that her declarations affirmed to are are entitled to full credit. Francis Davis Justice of the Peace Kennebec County
State of Maine County of Kennebec SS I William M Stratton Clerk of the Judicial Courts for said County of Kennebec do hereby certify that Francis Davis Esq is a Justice of the Peace in & for said County duly commissioned & qualified and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine. Witness my hand and the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court this seventeenth day of May Anno Domini, Eighteen hundred forty eight. WM Stratton
Page 40

I Richard Robinson of Sidney in the County of Kennebec and State of Maine on affirmation do testify and say That I was born on the 19th day of October AD 1766 at Naushon Island near Marthas Vineyard in the State of Massachusetts and that I am now in my eighty second year, and have resided in the town of Sidney aforesaid fifty-five years. I lived in the town of Tiverton State of Rhode Island for about one year and while there was acquainted with and knew Pardon Lake and Ruth Macomber and was present with Hope Grennel who is now my present wife, at the marriage of the said Pardon Lake & Ruth Macomber. I have been married about sixty years and the said Pardon Lake & Ruth Macomber were married before I was married, but the precise time I do not recollect. I know that they were married before I was and that is about sixty years since I was married. My oldest son is fifty nine years old born after my marriage with my present wife. And I further state that the said Pardon Lake and Ruth Macomber lived together as husband & wife, after their said marriage. [signed: "Richard Robinson"]
Witness Francis Davis
Kennebec SS on this seventeenth day of May AD 1848. The above named Richard Robinson personally
Page 41

appeared before me the subscriber one of the Justices of the Peace, disinterested in any uses which may be made of the foregoing affidavit, and for the County of Kennebec aforesaid, and solemnly affirmed the said Robinson being a member of the Society of Friends to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by him subscribed in my presence. The foregoing affidavit was written by me the said Justice and carefully read by me in the presence and hearing of said Robinson before his signature was attached thereto by him.
And I further certify that the said Robinson is a man of truth and veracity and that his declarations affirmed to are entitled to full credit. Francis Davis Justice of the Peace Kennebec County
State of Maine County of Kennebec SS
I William M Stratton Clerk of the Judicial Court held within and for the County of Kennebec certify that Francis Davis Esq is a Justice of the Peace within and for said county duly commissioned and qualified and that the above written signatures purporting to be his are genuine. Witness my hand and the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court this seventeenth day of May, Anno Domini eighteen hundred and forty eight. WM Stratton
Page 42

State of Rhode Island County of Newport SS
In Tiverton, in said County of Newport, on the 17th day of January 1844 before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said County personally came Robert Fish and Allen Durfee residents of said Tiverton of lawful age, credible persons to me well know. Who being duly sworn, on their oath do depose and say, that they were well acquainted with Pardon Lake, late of said Tiverton a revolutionary Pensioner of the United States under the law of June 7 1832. That he died at said Tiverton on the twentieth day of May in the year eighteen hundred thirty nine; and that he left a widow whose name is Ruth Lake, who resides in our neighborhood. [signed: Robert Fish his mark "x" "Allen Durfee"]
Witness to Signature of Robert Fish Jabez B Manchester Subscribed and sworn to on the day and year first above written. Before me Asa Gray Justice Peace
State of Rhode Island Clerks office Court of Common Pleas County of Newport SS. I Daniel C Denham Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Newport and State aforesaid being a Court of Record do hereby certify that Asa Gray is a Justice of the Peace for the town of Tiverton & County aforesaid and that he is duly qualified to act in his said capacity. And that his signature aforewritten is genuine. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my my hand and affixed the seal of said Court on this twenty third day of February AD eighteen hundred & forty three. Daniel C Denham Clerk
Page 43

Senate Chamber
Washington Aug. 10 1848
Sir,
I herewith send you the application of Ruth Lake for a pension, with the accompanying evidence, to which I respectfully request your early attention.. I am Your Obed Serv
Alb C Green
J.L. Edwards Esq
Comm DC
Page 44

Tiverton Jan 29 1844
Sir, Enclosed herewith are four declarations for Pensions with vouchers being all the applicants that I at present know of in this town. I believe the papers to be in the forms prescribed. The husbands of three of the applicants were Pensioners under Act of 1832 and the husband of the other under Act of 1818 & 1830. I am with great respect Your most Obt Servt Asa Gray
Page 45

[left side: "June 27 44"]
Tiverton RI
June 25, 1844
J. L. Edwards Esq
Com of Pensions
Washington D.C.

[upside down at bottom: " Answered by [illegible] June 27, 1844]
Page 46

[left side: "June 27 44"]
Tiverton RI
June 25, 1844
J. L. Edwards Esq
Com of Pensions
Washington D.C.

[upside down at bottom: " Answered by [illegible] June 27, 1844]
Page 47

Tiverton RI June 24 1844
Sir
I transmitted to the Pension Office, about the last of February four declarations of widows for Pensions as the claimants begin to be anxious about them will you permit me to inquire if they have been received at the office, and will be soon acted upon. The names of the claimants were Mary Hicks, Anna Simmons, Sarah Nigus, and Ruth Lake. There is a widow here, by name Nancy Durfee, who receives a pension for services of David Gray, her first husband to whom she was married during the war. She subsequently and before 1794 married Abner Durfee who also served in the war, is she not also entitled to a pension for the time her last husband served? The act relating to widow's pensions, lately passed by Congress has not yet been published here if convenient should wish to have the act with the forms of application to be used under said Act forwarded to me. I am with great respect Sir Your Most Obt Servt Asa Gray
Recd July 5 1844
JL Edwards 
Com. of Pensions
Washington
Page 48

Fall River Mass. Dec 14th 1855
Hon. J Minot Commissioner of Pensions:
Dear Sir: In your letter of the 13th [illegible] in relation to the Claim of Ruth Lake for Bounty Land, under Act of March 3, 1855 No 76.185 you refer me to the Secy of the State of Rhode Island for such evidence of the service of Pardon Lake, husband of said Ruth Lake, as is required. I have made enquiry at that department, and, as you will see by the accompanying letter of the Secy there is no such record found there. I have also made further search and am quite sure there is nothing of that nature extant. You will please have the goodness to inform me whether under existing circumstances the claim of said Ruth Lake will receive any further consideration; this I would respectfully ask for the satisfaction of the claimant. She now being upwards of ninety years of age, cannot be expected to need the allowance at any very distant period in the future. With Respect. I am Your Obdt Servant. Benjn F Winslow
Page 49

STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS [letterhead with image of woman holding state flag overlooking ships in the ocean]
Secretary's Office Providence Nov 26th 1855
Sir
I have received your letter of the 20th [illegible] requesting information or evidence, to shew that Pardon Lake served in American Army during the war of the Revolution. In reply, I have to state that there are no rolls among the archives of this State, of the soldiers who served in the Revolutionary War; That previous to the War of 1812 all the muster rolls of the army and militia of the revolutionary war then preserved here were sent to the Dept of State, Washington where they were destroyed by fire.
Many years ago Benj Cowell Esq of this city, was enabled to find among the private papers of old families, the rolls of several regiments, containing the names of [underline] enlisted [/underline] soldiers only, but none of the militia. he now devotes himself to the business of establishing revolutionary claims where the services were rendered in Rhode Island. I therefore recommend you to him for further information. Among the records of this office are the appointments of all the [underline] Militia Officers [/underline] who served in the war in this state, information respecting which can be given. But in this case, it will facilitate business to know when the party in question was appointed, or in what year he served. I am very respectfully Your Obedient Servant John R Bartlett Secretary of State
To Benjamin F Winslow Esq
Fall River Mass
Page 50

Providence Dec 11 1855
Dr Sir
In reply to yours of 8 int I have to say that the name "Pardon Lake" cannot be found on any Roll in my possession. I have the Rolls of enlisted soldiers but very few of the Militia and I believe Pardon Lake served in the militia. Nor are there any rolls of the militia in the archives of this state. Yours Respectfully Benja Cowell
Page 51

Since writing the foregoing and made further examination of the papers in this office, I have seen Mr Cowell, referred to. He informs me that there are very many persons situated precisely as the person you represent The decision of the pension office requiring record evidence, where the services of a revolutionary soldier have already been acknowledged by granting him or her a pension is extraordinary. For if the evidence had not been satisfactory the pension would not originally have been granted. It is possible, too, that the orig evidence now demanded may have been among that sent by this state to Washington years ago & there destroyed. JRB
Page 52

Fall River Mass, Nov. 8 1855
Hon J Minot, Commissioner of Pensions,
Dear Sir: I this day recd notice that the claim of Ruth Lake for bounty land under the act of 3rd March 1855, No 76.185, had been examined and suspended. I would respectfully ask that the claim may be reexamined; as the said Ruth Lake is now in receipt of a pension, which she received in consideration of the services of her husband in the revolutionary war. And supposing that said pension would not have been granted without evidence of the service of Pardon Lake the husband of said claimant. I would in behalf of said Ruth Lake, ask that further search may be made for the record of her said husband's service. He was a "private of Infantry & Artillery" and I think was in the service of the Rhode Island Militia. Please inform me whether the record of said service may or may not be found in the office of the Secretary of War - or in any other department. Very Repectfully Your Obdt Servant Benjamin F Winslow
Page 53

WJ Harrison Prest EL Harrison Treas
[handwritten on right: "Revo Sec"]
Harrison Bros. Co., Butter, Cheese, & Eggs 208 State St 
[image on left: circle with crescent moon and star: "CRESCENT CREAMERY TRADEMARK HARRISON BROS CO BOSTON"]
[image on right: circle with "TRADEMARK MONARCH CREAMERY Harrison Bros Co. BOSTON"]
cable Address: Hasrrisonco, Boston Phone, Richmond 452
Boston, Feb 16, 1917
G.M. Saltsgaber Esq
Com. Bureau of Pensions
Dept. of Interior
Washington D.C.
Dear Sir: On September 8 1843 Ruth Lake of Tiverton R.I. applied for a pension as a Revolutionary soldier's widow. This lady was my great-grandmother and I have always understood that her application was held up for a number of years owing to inability to produce record of marriage. This was finally accomplished through the agency of one who was present at the wedding. I presume that in this case an affadavit must have been signed by someone certifying to the fact and quite possibly gave details as to where and by whom the ceremony was performed. I would thank you very much if the papers attached to her application could be examined and what information they contain transmitted to me. I feel that you will be very glad to do this and I wish that you would accept my thanks in advance. With kind regards I am Very truly yours W Harrison
Page 54

Mortgage Ranking Company 423 Fourth Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 1-10-03
DIRECTORS:
SAMUEL GARRISON PRESIDENT
CHARLES HOLMES VICE PRESIDENT
CHAS B LAWTON 2ND VICE PRESIDENT
AP HOWARD TREASURER
WILLIAM B LAWTON SECRETARY
LEM S BROCK CLOSING OFFICER
WALTER MORRIS
PRESTLEY G WALKER
Department of Interior, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Gentlemen:- For the purposes of applying for admission in "The Sons of the American Revolution" I desire the record of Pardon Lake who enlisted from the state of Rhode Island in 1777. In a letter addressed to Arthur B. Brayton, dated January 21st, 1893, Fall River Massachusetts, you refer to the following numbers which may be of use to you in looking up the data: O.W. and N. Division
F.S.
W. 24471
I need an original certificate, however or would use a copy of his. If you have the record of Bordon Brayton, also enlisted from Rhode Island I would like it for the same purpose. Thanking you for the trouble, I remain, Yours truly C.B. Lawton
Page 55

Fall River Mass Sept. 2, 1896
Dear Sir, Will you please inform me whether a pension was ever paid to the widow of Pardon Lake. Pardon Lake served as a soldier in the Revolutionary War, could you give me his war record? I wish for this information in order to fill out papers which will enable me to join the "Daughters of the American Revolution."
Page 56

Please write and tell me whether you can give me the proof I wish and state what your charge will be. Respectfully, (Miss) Helen M Borden Garfield St Fall River Mass
[stamp: PENSION OFFICE SEP 4 1896"]
Page 57

Endorsement Adjutant General's Office Washington, July 8, 1892. Respectfully returned with the information that this office is unable to supply the record within requested. The Revolutionary War records are not filed in the War Department; some of them are filed in the Pension Office and some in the State Department. It is suggested that the information desired may possibly be obtained by addressing an inquiry to the Commissioner of Pensions, this city. J B Gilmore Asst. Adjutant General.
Page 58

City Clerks Office Fall River [cutoff]
Geo A. Ballard CLERK
Adjutant General, Washington D.C.
Dear Sir: Will you kindly give me a [cutoff] of the war record of my two grandfathers who served in [cutoff] of the Revolution? viz, Pardon Lake and Burden [cutoff] probably from Rhode Island: possibly from Massachusetts:
Respectfully, Arthur B Brayton Asst. City [cutoff]
Page 59

175 Barnaby St Fall River Mass Sept 13 1909
Dept. of the Interior Wash DC Com Bureau of Pensions
Dear Sir: Will you kindly give information of the military record of Pardon Lake, a soldier of the Revolutionary War, resident of Tiverton Rhode Island. Also of one Albro, an officer I think in Revolution? I desire to join the Daughters of the Revolution, and to ascertain the military
Page 60

records of my ancestors. An early reply will oblige. Yours truly (Miss) Evelyn E Albro
[stamp: "EVELYN E ALBRO"]
175 Barnaby St Fall River Mass
Page 61

City Clerk's Office
Fall River Mass
                                                     Jul 11 1892
Geo A Ballard
 Clerk

Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.

Dear Sir,
Enclosed find letter and answer.
Will you kindly give me the information desired?
Please return these two letters -

[Res  y]

Arthur B Brayton
Asst. City Clerk
Page 62

BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims, of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of Pardon Lake which require further proof or explanation.
I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? yes
II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? yes
III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so? [blank]
IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served? yes
V. *Has he mentioned 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? No
VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulation? yes
VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? yes
VIII. Has the Court given their opinion? yes
IX. Has the clerk given his certificate? yes
X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal? yes
Page 63

2.
XI. Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolutionary service? No clergyman certificate 2 living witnesses certificates credible.
XII. If the clergyman's affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtaining it? yes
XIII. If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one living witness, has he stated in his declaration that such proof cannot be had? 2 witnesses
XIV. If the applicant's name is not found on the rolls of military service, has he produced a witness or witnesses as to his service? If he has produced direct proof as to service, has the magistrate who administered the oath, certified to the credibility of the witness or witnesses? The Court has
Has the proper officer certified to the official character and signature of the magistrate as the regulations direct? yes
XV. Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant's service? yes
XVI. Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct? yes
XVII. Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily? And, if not, which of them is not so answered? [blank]
EXPLANATORY NOTES
*QUERE V. 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.
Page 64

                                                                                          3

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service.  The use of the phrase about three or four months is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable.  Some persons who apply for pensions merely state 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 of in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.

QUERE XIV. Proof of Service.
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 claimants 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 by certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.

QUERE XVI. 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 paper 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.

In every case where the clerk of the court, or other certifying officer, 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.
Page 65

                                                               ..
Portraits                             L. L. Anderstrom                                    Stereopticons,
and Views.                           46 Church Street                                  Lantern  Slides, Etc.
                                 P. O. Box 2[0]2                       Telephone Connection.

                                          Bristol, R. I.                         Jane 16   1900

To the Pension Commissioner
 
Dear Sir.
Can you send me the data in regard to the service in the American Revolution of Pardon Lake of 
Tiverton R. I. also in regard to Ruth (Macomber) Lake who received a revolutionary pension?
I wish what is necessary in order to seek admission to the Society of the Sons of the American revolution if it is available

Yours truly 
                     ..
L. L. Anderstrom
Bristol                                                                                          Pension
R. I.                                                                                               [stamp]
                                                                                                 U    JAN     S
                                                                                                       1900
                                                                                                      Office