Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 23461, Joshua Armstrong, Penn
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(3 - 1776)
SERVICE
Penn.
Armstrong, Joshua
Sarah
NUMBER
W.23461.
CONTENTS
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Letter Sec pf War Mar 28 1836
25.945
Illinois
Joshua Armstrong of Greene County in the State of Illinois, who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain Leard of the Regiment commanded by Col. Potter in the Pennsylvania line for 1 year 15 Days $40.66
Inscribed on the Roll of Illinois at the rate of 41 Dollars 66 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 31st day of January, 1834, and Sent to M. Kennett Cassollton, Ill.
Arrears to the 4th of Sept 1833 - 104.15
Semi-annual allowance ending 4 March 1834 20.83
$124.98
{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.}
Recorded J.J. Sprague, Clerk, Book C, Vol. 8, Page 55
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Carrollton, Ills.
Dec 19.
January 4, 1834
Illinois original
Free
J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City, D.C.
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State of Illinois, Greene County, SS.
Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of the 7th of June 1832.
State of Illinois, County Commissioners, Court of Greene County, SS.
On this second day of December 1833, personally appeared in open court, (being a court of record) in and for the County of Greene, Joshua Armstrong, a resident of the County of Greene and State of Illinois, now in the seventy eighth year of his age, who being first duly sworn according to Law, doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th 1832, that he was drafted into the service of the United States as a private in the Pennsylvania Militia, in the year 1777, to serve a tour of sixty days under Captain Leard, attached to Colonel Chambers' Regiment, General Potters' brigade, while the British were in Philadelphia. He was in two engagements with the British, the first at Chestnut Hill, the second at the Seven Stars, near the Gulph Mill, where his brother John Armstrong was taken prisoner, and confined in Philadelphia until the British abandoned the place, and in a few days after he was released, he died alleging that he was poisoned whilst in confinement. He served two months under this engagement.
2d: Some time after, the date not now distinctly recollected, he was drafted as a private in the Pennsylvania Militia, to go against the Indians at the Standing Stone. He served two months, this expedition under Lieutenant Jenkins from Cumberland
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County Pennsylvania, the service performed in Canoe Valley, Junietta. The company was divided and stationed at different points to protect the frontier. The names of the different officers not at this time recollected.
3rd: He served a tour of duty of two months at Wheeling Fort and was engaged during the time in Scouting. His impression is that during this service, he was under subordinate officers, who were changed during the time and their names not now recollected.
4th: In the year 1781, about the 1st day of August, he entered into the service of the United States at Pittsburgh, under General George Rogers Clark, Colonel Crockett, Majors Crittenden and Wells. He was in the service this time four and a half months and served as an artificer (besides performing military duty under Captain Bruce) under Mr. Anderson, foreman of artificers. During this service, he was with the troops down the Ohio to the Falls and returned by water to Wheeling. He lost his brother, Joseph Armstrong, who was killed this expedition, having received a wound at the Falls, at the same time Capt. Keller was wounded, who also died.
5th: He served a tour of duty of two months at Wheeling under Colonel Marshall of the Pennsylvania Militia, who gave him a written discharge a few days before the expiration of his time, for carrying an express to Decker's Fort Mingo bottom on the Ohio, which service was performed at great hazard. The discharge has been lost. He states
upon his oath aforesaid that his whole service amounts to Twelve and a half months.
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and he declares that his name
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is not on the pension roll of any Agency in any State.
Whereupon the court propounded the following interrogatories to the applicant:
1st: Where and what year were you born?
Answer: I was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, August the 1st 1756, and was raised in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. 
2nd: Have you any record of your age; and if so, where is it?
Answer: My age was recorded in a large family Bible, now in my possession.
3rd: Where were you living when called into service? Where have you lived since the revolutionary war and where do you now live?
Answer: I was living in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, when called into service. Since the revolutionary War, I lived first at Monongahela, from thence to Virginia in Rockingham County where I married, from thence I removed to Bourbon County, Kentucky, and after a residence of six years, I removed to Greene County, Kentucky, remained there six years and then removed to Warren County, Kentucky, lived there sixteen years, and then removed to the then territory of Illinois in the year 1870. Since which time he has resided in the territory and state and now resides in Greene County, Illinois.
4th: How were you called into service, were you drafted, or did you volunteer, or were you a substitute, and if a substitute, for whom?
Answer: I have stated in my declaration as near as my memory will serve me, the manner in which I was called into service - the service under General Clark was volunteered under a promise of pay as an artificer, but I never received any.
5th: State the names of the regular officers, who were with
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the troops where you served; such continental and militia regiments as you can recollect and the general circumstances of your service?
Answer: I have already stated in my declaration all that is distinctly recollected and esteemed material to my application.
6th: Did you ever receive a discharge from the service and if so by whom was it given, and what has become of it?
Answer: I never received any discharge except the one from Col. Marshall, that I recollect, and that has been lost as before stated.
7th: State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a Soldier of the revolution.
Answer: The Revd. Major Dotson, Revd. Fletcher Dotson, Revd. William Smith, John Thompson, Senior, John Thompson, Junior, Chester Bethel, James Rusk, Jefferson Robertson, Morris Armstrong and Chilton Smith.
In witness whereof, the said Joshua Armstrong subscribed his name in open Court on the date before mentioned.
Joshua Armstrong [his mark]
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Mortimer Kennett, Clerk County Court
Whereupon the following additional declaration was made in open court by the individuals whose names are subscribed thereto.
We, Major Dotson, Fletcher Dotson, William
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Smith, clergymen residing in the County of Greene and State of Illinois, and Chester Bethel, James Rusk, Jefferson Robertson, Morris Armstrong and Chilton Smith, residing in the same, hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Joshua Armstrong who has subscribed and sworn to the foregoing declaration, that we believe him to be in his seventy eighth year 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.
Major Dodson, Clergyman [seal]
Fletcher Dodson, Clergyman [seal]
William Smith, Clergyman [seal]
Chester Bethell [his mark] [seal]
James Rush [seal]
Jefferson Robinson [seal]
Morris Armstrong [seal]
Chilton Smith [seal]
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Mortimer Kennett, 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, Joshua Armstrong, was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states. And the court further certifies that the above-named clergymen and individuals are residents of the County of Greene, and being credible persons, their statement is entitled to credit.
Jesse V. Mount [seal]
Cyrus Talman [seal]
J. Larton [seal]
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State of Illinois, Greene County, ss.
I, Mortimer Kennett, Clerk of the County Commissioners Court of the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that the foregoing five pages contain the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Joshua Armstrong for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office affixed this second day of December AD 1833.
Att. Mortimer Kennett, Clerk
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12574
Declaration
Sarah Armstrong
Recd. Feb 27, 1846
m 85. d 44
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12.574 (443.
Sarah Armstrong
Illinois
Act 7 July 1838.
M. 85. d. 1844
Rejected
Act 17 June 1844
Admitted
8 months private
26.66 from 25th Sept. 1844, when husband died.
Erastus Wright, Esq.
Springfield, Illinois
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Declaration
State of Illinois
Jersey County, SS.
On this sixth (6) day of February, 1846, personally appeared before me, a justice of the peace in and for said County, Sarah Armstrong, a resident of the County of Jersey and State of Illinois, 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 benefit of the Provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7th 1838 and the subsequent acts in relation thereto, entitled "an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows." 
That she is the widow of Joshua Armstrong who was a Private in the army of the Revolution, who was a Pensioner on the roll of the Illinois agency at the rate of $41.66 per annum and who died on the 25th day of December 1844. She further declares that she was married to the said Joshua Armstrong on the seventh day of July in the year Seventeen hundred and eighty-five. 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 (1794) viz at the time above stated.
Sworn to and subscribed on the 6th day of February 1846.
Sarah Armstrong
Hiram Bridges, a justice of the peace
Signed and sealed in presence of
Maurice Armstrong
David Miller
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State of Illinois
Jersey County
Be it known that on the [blank] day of 184[blank] before the Subscriber Clerk of the C[blank] Court in and for said County, personally appeared Sarah Armstrong, widow of Joshua Armstrong, Deceased, and made oath, the Declaration within.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Jerseyville this day and year first above written.
State of Illinois
Jersey County, SS.
I, Hiram Bridges, a justice of the peace for and in said County, do hereby certify that Sarah Armstrong, widow of Joshua Armstrong, did this day appear before me and made oath to the foregoing Declaration in order to obtain a pension: Also, I certify that by reason of bodily infirmity, she is not able without great exposure of her health to go this cold weather seven miles to give in her evidence before a court of record.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand. This the 6th day of February 1846.
Hiram Bridges, Justice of the peace
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State of Illinois
Jersey County, SS.
I, George W Lowder, Clerk of the County Commissioners Court of said County, hereby certify that Hiram Bridges, whose name appears to the foregoing certificate, is and was on the sixth day of February (1846) and at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace within and for the said County of Jersey, duly commissioned and qualified and that full faith and credit are due to his official acts and further that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In Witness Whereof, I hereto subscribe my name and affix the seal of said court at Jerseyville this seventh day of February AD 1846.
Geo. W. Lowder, Clerk
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Evidence of marriage
Joshua Armstrong to Sarah Morris
10 July 1846
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Know all men by these presents that we, Joshua Armstrong and Henry Ewing of the County of Rockingham, are held and firmly bound unto Patrick Henry, Esqr., Governor of the State of Virginia, in the just and full sum of Fifty pounds Current money of the said to the which payment well and truly to be made and done to the said Patrick Henry or his Successors in that office, we do thereby bind ourselves our and every of our heirs [illegible] and [illegible] jointly by these presence in Witness whereof we have hereunto set our hands and affixed our seals this 1st day of July 1785 in the ninth year of the Commonwealth.
The Condition of the above obligation is such that whereas the above bounded Joshua Armstrong hath obtained License for Marriage with Sarah Morris, daughter of Morris Morris of this County. Now if there should be no lawful impediment or objection to hinder or obstruct the said marriage, then the above obligation shall be void or else to remain in full force, forever and virtue in law.
Teste
Joshua Armstrong [seal]
Henry Ewing
December 28th 1845,
Adopted, Teste
H. J. Gambill, CRE
Rockingham County, to wit
I, Henry J Gambill, Clerk of the Court of the County aforesaid, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a copy of the bond given by Joshua Armstrong, given at the time of obtaining a License to Marry Sarah Morris [illegible] the original on file in my office.
In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my said [illegible]
H J Gambill, Clerk of Rockingham County, Va.
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I, Peachey Harrison, Presiding Magistrate in and for the County of Rockingham, do hereby certify that Henry J Gambill is the Clerk of said County and that his attestation is in due form. Given under my hand and Seal this 30th day of December 1845.
Peachey Harrison [seal]
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4986,
Illinois
Sarah Armstrong, widow of Joshua, Pa, who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 41 Dollars 66 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 4 day of August 1849 and sent to pensioner. Fielding, Jersey Co., Illinois.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 342, Vol 3.
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June 17, 1932
BA-J/AWF
Joshua Armstrong
W. 23461
Mrs. H. J. Ritter
La Grande
Oregon
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request information in regard to Joshua Armstrong, a soldier of the War of the Revolution.
The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, W.23461, based upon the Revolutionary War service of Joshua Armstrong, which is the record of the only soldier by that name found on file in the Revolutionary War records of this office.
Joshua Armstrong was born August 1, 1756 at Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
While residing in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, he enlisted and served with the Pennsylvania troops as follows: in 1777, two months as private in Captain Leard's company, Colonel Chambers' regiment, was in engagements at Chestnut Hill and Seven Stars
near Gulphs Mill; two months under Lieutenant Jenkins in an expedition against the Indians at Standing Stone, dates not stated, two months as a scout at Wheeling Fort, dates and officers not given; from August 1, 1781, George Rogers Clark's Expedition to the Falls of the Ohio, four- and one-half months, a part of the
time under Captain Bruce, and also as artificer under Anderson, Foreman of Artificers; Two months under Colonel Marshall at Wheeling, no dates given.
He was allowed pension on his application exe-
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cuted December 2, 1833, at which time he was living in Greene County, Illinois.
He died September 25, 1845 in Jersey County, Illinois.
The soldier, Joshua Armstrong, married July 7, 1785 in Rockingham County, Virginia, Sarah Morris, the daughter of Morris Morris of said Rockingham County.
The widow, Sarah Armstrong, was allowed pension on her application executed February 6, 1846, then a resident of Jersey County, Illinois, and was aged eighty-two years.
The soldier stated that his brother, John Armstrong, was taken prisoner in his first tour of 1777, and confined in Philadelphia until the British abandoned that city, when he was released and died a few days later, having been poisoned while in captivity, and also that his brother, Joseph Armstrong, was killed in the expedition to the Falls of the Ohio.
There are no further data as to family.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator
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Rev
WIDOW, &C.
File No. 23461
Sarah Armstrong
Widow of Joshua Armstrong
Private Rev War
Act Feb 2nd 1848
Index: Vol. A Page 18
[Arrangement of 1870.]
1906 Dec. 11 History to J.C. Armstrong.
1909 Feb. 13. History to Hon. Ben Franklin Caldwell - C.
1909 Mar 31 History to Wm E. Bridges
1914 Mar 31 History to Hon. A. L. Armstrong
1916 Apr 13. To Hon. W. L. Hensley
1916 Apr 14 To Mrs. C.J. Doyle
1918 Mar 18 To Hon. Henry T. Rainey
1929 June 11 History to C. Robert Armstrong
1930 July 28 History to J.A. Stice
1930 Aug 5 Mrs. Henry W. English, advised as to date last payment of pension, etc.
1932 June 17 History to Mrs. H. J. Ritter
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12.574
Sarah Armstrong
Illinois
Let. to E. Wright, May 21, 1846
to same Aug 20th, 1846
Act 7 July 1838
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Illinois. 353
Sarah Armstrong widow of Joshua Armstrong who was a Private in the Penna. line, Husband died 25th Sept. 1845
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 26 Dollars 66 Cents per annum, to commence on the 25th Sept, 1845.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12th day of March 1847 and sent to Erastus Wright, Springfield, Illinois
[Act of JUNE 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book A, Vol. 2 Page 225
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353
Illinois
Sarah Armstrong widow of Joshua who was a private in the
Penna. line
Increased from $26.66
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 41 Dollars 66 Cents per annum, to commence on the 25 September 1845.
Certificate of Pension issued the 4 day of August 1849 and sent to Pensioner, Fielding, Jersey Co., Ills.
[Act of JUNE 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book A, Vol 2, Page 225
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T.C. Armstrong
21 "Yon" St. N.W.
Washington, D.C.
Statement to the above, please.
Bryant
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Joshua Armstrong - Illinois Roll - Act 7 June, 1832, $41.66 per annum. Will the Third Auditor please say to what time he was last paid?
Pension Office,
March 11, 1847
Died 25th Sept. 1845
Paid to his death.
B.L.B.
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State of Illinois
Jersey County, SS.
On this twelfth day of December 1846, personally appeared before me, Hiram Bridges, a Justice of the peace duly authorized to administer oaths, the undersigned Sarah Armstrong, a resident of the County aforesaid, 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 7th 1838, Entitled, "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows." That she is the widow of Joshua Armstrong who was a Private in the army of the Revolution.
She further declares that she was married to the said Joshua Armstrong she believes, in July 1785. That her husband, the aforesaid Joshua Armstrong, died on the 25th day of September 1844. That she was not married to him previous to his leaving the service, but that the marriage took place previous to the first of January 1794, viz. at the time above stated.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me.
Sarah Armstrong
Hiram Bridges, Justice of the peace
Witnesses present
W.W. Allyn
James V. Sims
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State of Illinois
Jersey County, SS.
I,  Hiram Bridges, a Justice of the peace in and for said County, do certify that I am personally acquainted with Sarah Armstrong, Widow of Joshua Armstrong, deceased, who was a Pensioner of the United States and died on the 25th September 1846, and knew her, the said Sarah Armstrong, whose signature appears within to be the widow of the said Joshua Armstrong and that by reason of bodily infirmity she is unable to attend the court to give in her testimony before a court of record, she being very decrepit by reason of age.
Hiram Bridges, Justice of the peace
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this December twelfth 1846.
State of Illinois
Jersey County, SS.
I, George W Lowder, Clerk of the County Commissioners Court in and for said County, do hereby certify that Hiram Bridges is a Justice in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified, that his commission was dated on the 15th day of September 1845 and will expire on the [blank] day of August AD 1847, and that his signature above written is Genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said Court this Twelfth day of December AD 1846.
Geo. W. Lowder, Clerk
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State of Illinois
Jersey County, SS.
Be it known that on the 26th day of June 1846 before me, Hiram Bridges, a justice of the peace in and for said County personally appeared Sarah Armstrong and made oath that she is the widow of Joshua Armstrong, deceased, who was a pensioner on the Roll of the Illinois agency at the rate of $41.66 per annum and died on the 25th September 1844, as will appear on the Records of the proper office. That she is still a widow and never received any pension since his death. Sworn to and subscribed this June 26th 1846.
Sarah Armstrong
Hiram Bridges, Justice Peace
Witnesses:
Maurice Armstrong
T. Sawyer
I certify that I am personally acquainted with Sarah Armstrong, above named, and know her to be the identical person who was the wife of Joshua Armstrong, deceased.
Jersey County, Illinois June 26th 1846.
Hiram Bridges
Justice of the peace
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State of Illinois
Jersey County, SS.
I, George W. Lowder, Clerk of the County Commissioners Court of said County, certify that Hiram Bridges is a Magistrate as above and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Jerseyville this 27th day of June AD 1846.
Geo. W. Lowder, Clerk
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February 19, 1829
Sarah Armstrong
Admitted Acts
17 June 1844 at $41.66 per annum [illegible] September 1845 deducting former payments at $26.66 per annum.
Admitted Act 1848 at $41.66 per annum
Pensioner, Fielding, Jersey County, Illinois
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[illegible] Illinois paid
Feb 3
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington, D. C
Page 33

State of Illinois the County of Jersey
On this second day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty nine, personally appeared before me the undersigned, a justice of the peace for the County and State above mentioned, Sarah Armstrong, who being duly sworn according to Law, declares that she was married to Joshua Armstrong in the County of Rockingham in the State of Virginia in the year of our Lord one thousand Seven hundred and eighty five and that she still remains the Widow of the said Joshua Armstrong, deceased.
Given under my hand and Seal,
Sarah Armstrong [seal]
Attest: James A. Reading, Maurice Armstrong
Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written. Given under my hand and seal.
Hiram Bridges [seal]
Justice of the peace
State of Illinois
Jersey County
I, Hiram Bridges, justice of the peace, do hereby certify that Sarah Armstrong, Widow of Joshua Armstrong, deceased, this day appeared before me and made oath to the foregoing Declaration in order to obtain a Pension. Also, I certify that by reason of bodily infirmity, she is not able without great exposure of her health to go this cold weather eight miles to give in her evidence before a court of record.
Given under my hand and seal this 2nd February 1849.
Hiram Bridges [seal]
Justice of the peace
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My address
Fieldon, Jersey Co., Ills.
Sarah Armstrong
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STATE OF ILLINOIS,
Jersey County, SS.
I, George W. Lowder, Clerk of the County Commissioners' Court of Jersey County aforesaid, and, ex officio, Recorder of Civil Commissions, in and for said County -- Certify, that Hiram Bridges is now, and was, on the second day of February A. D. 1849, an acting Justice of the Peace of Jersey County, State of Illinois, duly elected, commissioned, and qualified -- That his signature to the foregoing oath and certificate is genuine -- And that full faith and credit is, and ought to be, given to his official acts, as such Justice of the Peace.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto signed my name, and affixed the Seal of the County Commissioners Court aforesaid, at Jerseyville this third day of February A.D. 1849.
Geo. W. Lowder, Clerk
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Sarah Armstrong papers
Page 37

Springfield, Illinois 17 Feby 1846
J.L. Edwards
Dear Sir
Enclosed is the Declaration of Sarah Armstrong for a Pension also the Certified Copy of Marriage Bond.
Please forward to me as soon as convenient.
Yours etc.
Erastus Wright
Page 38

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Washington City, D.C.
Page 39

Springfield Illinois 27 January 1847
J L Edwards
Dear Sir
Enclosed is the 2nd Declaration of Sarah Armstrong. She is too decrepit to go out. And she lives so far from the County seat Circuit Courts only twice a year. Our County Courts are by 3 persons generally who are not magistrates, and our law does not confer on them the authority to administer oaths - they are called County Commissioners, and you will perceive the almost impossibility to get a Circuit Judge to leave his official duties and go off 20 miles to take an acknowledgment.
You have often taken this same testimony and allowed the Pension.
Your letter of 20 Aug 1846 cuts off. 
If by our Laws our Judges or Justices of a Court of Review are not duly authorized by the Laws of the State to administer oaths, you will perceive our difficulty.
Yours &c.
Erastus Wright
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J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City, D.C.
Page 41

Springfield Illinois 1st July 1846
J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Dear Sir
Enclosed is the Identity of Sarah Armstrong as required in your Letter of 20, May 1846. Please forward certificate to me as early as possible.
Yours etc.
Erastus Wright
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3 -- 397.
Old No. 3 -- 899. )
Record Division
W. File No. 23461
Joshua Armstrong
Rev. War
Department of the Interior,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D. C., Feby 12th, 1909.
SIR:
For use in the above-entitled claim for pension, you are requested to furnish this Bureau with a report in the case of Joshua Armstrong, Penn. Troops Rev. War pensioned under the Act of June 7, 1832 by certificate No. 25,945 issued, January 31, 1834 at the Illinois Agency, showing the date of his death.
Very respectfully,
V. Warner
Commissioner.
THE AUDITOR FOR THE INTERIOR DEPARTMENT
Treasury Department
[Stamp: U.S. Pension Office Feb 18 1909]
[Stamp: OFFICE OF AUDITOR FOR INTERIOR DEPT. FEB 15 1909 Pension Division.]
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[Seal: OFFICE OF AUDITOR FOR INTERIOR DEPARTMENT]
TREASURY DEPARTMENT
Washington, Feby 17th 1909,
The Commissioner of Pensions.
Sir:
In reply to your letter of 12th instant, you are informed that, according to the latest account rendered by the U.S. Pension Agent, at Springfield, Ill., the records of this office show payment to have been made to Joshua Armstrong, Rev War, Admitted 1832, certificate No. 25,945 at $41.66 per 12 months to 25 September 1845 date of death. Payment was made to the widow Sarah Armstrong and pensioner resided in Jersey Co. Ills. for fourteen years and previously in Madison Co. Ills.
Letter herewith returned.
Respectfully,
Robert S. Person, Auditor.
By Deputy Auditor
Form 3577.
Ed. Nov. 25 - 08 -- 2,500.
[Stamp: U.S. Pension Office Feb 18 1909]
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Jacksonville, Illinois
June 24, 1930
The Commissioner of Pensions
Department of the Interior
Washington, D.C
My dear sir:
Will you please advise me as to whom the last pension of Joshua Armstrong was paid and when he died, his wife was Sarah (or Sary Moss Armstrong). He enlisted from Pennsylvania and I am told that he drew a pension for services in Rev. War under direct command of Geo. Washington. I understand that he died in Jersey County, Illinois. Did his wife die before he did or after?
Thomas Moore, a Rev. War soldier Va. Militia Capt. Peter May's Company, Col. Glenn's Regiment - drew pension Jan 24
Page 45

1834 dating from March 4, 1831 - wife's name before marriage Elizabeth Trent. When did he die? Did his wife survive him?
Name of wife of George W. Bowman, Capt. James Hodges VA. Militia - (War 1812)
Survivors Certificate No. 963, allowed pension on application dated June 14, 1871. He died 1874, please give his wife's death, if prior to his.
With grateful appreciation, I am,
Yours faithfully,
(Mrs. Henry W.) Sara John English
Jacksonville, Illinois
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[handwritten: Ans. July 28, 1930]
Shelbyville, Illinois.
June 26, 1930.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:-
I am desirous of obtaining a copy of the application of one Joshua Armstrong for pension as a Revolutionary War Veteran. I think his pension was granted to him in Greene County, Illinois in 1834. He was in the Cumberlan County Militia of Penn. also a private in Washington County Rangers.
I would like to know the date of his death and anything else in connection with his War Record. I discovered his grave in Jersey County, Illinois some time ago but do not have all the record. We hope to have his grave marked as a Revolutionary War Veteran. He was my Grandfather.
Will thank you very kindly for any information.
Resp.,
J. A. Stice.
[Stamp: U.S. Pension Office Jun 28 1930]
Page 47

Shelbyville, Illinois,
June - 18 - 1930.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:-
I am writing you for information as to the War Record of Joshua Armstrong a Revolutionary War Soldier, who was supposed to have enlisted from Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, Served two months under Capt. Leard and Col. Chambers, two months under Lieut. Jenkins and two months at Fort Wheeling.
I have recently discovered his burial place in Jersey County, Illinois but can not decipher all the record on his grave stone. We have always been led to believe that he was a pensioner or at least his wife was. She was Sarah Morris a daughter of Morris Moris of Penn.
My record says he was born August 1, 1756 in Carslile, Penn.
We hope to soon have his grave marked as a Revolutionary Soldier and would be pleased to have this record verified or the correct one obtained.
Will thank you very kindly for any information along this line.
Resp.,
J. A. Stice.
[Stamp: U.S. Pension Office Jun 20, 1930]
Page 48

HENRY T. RAINEY
ILLINOIS
House of Representatives U.S.
Washington, D. C.
March 15th 1918.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
Byron Armstrong, of Jacksonville, Illinois, writes me as follows:
"The information I wish is about the war record of my great-grandfather, Joshua Armstrong, born Lancaster, Pa. Aug. 1st, 1756, enlisted 1777 from Cumberland County, Pa. as Private under Capt. Leard. He resided later in Jersey County, Illinois, where my father, C. C. Armstrong (now residing Girard, Macoupin County, Ill.) was born."
Please oblige me by advising me as to what your records show as to his Revolutionary ancestor.
Very truly yours,
Henry T. Ransey
[Stamp: U.S. Pension Office Mar 16 1918]
Page 49

Long Beach Calif Pension Bureau Jan 19th 1929 Washington D C 
Dear Sirs I would like to get some information regarding the families of three Brothers who served with the Pennsylvania Troops during the Revolutionary War , Joshua Armstrong who is said to have received a pension from Greene Co 111, Joseph Armstrong from Columbia Co Pennsylvania, and also Joseph Armstrong who served as Colonel in the Cumberland Co Pa Militia, and there were two James Armstrong's with the Pennsylvania Troops, and one of them is said to have received a pension from Franklin Co, Ohio, Do the records give the Names of the Wives and children of these Soldiers? Thanking you for a reply I am Yours Respectfully Robert Armstrong (signature)
 Robert Armstrong 
SEAL: PENSION OFFICE Jan 25 1929
Page 50

SIXTY-FOURTH CONGRESS.
       _______________
LEMUEL P. PADGETT, TENN. CHAIRMAN.
J. FREDERICK C. TALBOTT, MD.    WILLIAM B. OLIVER, ALA.
ALBERT ESTOPINAL, LA.               MICHAEL LIEBEL, JR. PA.
DANIEL J. RIORDAN, N. Y.            THOMAS S. BUTLER, PA.
SAMUEL J. TRIBBLE, GA.               ERNEST W. ROBERTS, MASS.
WALTER L. HENSLEY, MO.            WILLIAM J. BROWNING. M. J.
FRANK BUCHANAN, ILL.               JOHN R. FARR, PA.
FINLY H. GRAY, IND.                     FRED A BRITTEN, ILL.
OSCAR CALLAWAY, TEX.              PATRICK H. KELLEY MICH.
ARCHIBALD CHART, N. J.            WILLIAM D. STEPHENS, CAL.
JOHN R. CONNELLY, KANS.         SIDNEY E. MUDD, MD.
                                                       R. S. THEALL CLERK.

                        HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES U.S.,

                                    COMMITTEE ON NAVAL AFFAIRS.

                                          WASHINGTON, D. C. April 12, 1916.

Bureau of Pensions,

Washington, D. C.

Sirs:

    I shall thank you to advise me the
Revolutionary War record of Joshua Armstrong,
said to have enlisted from the State of Pennsylvania.

                                       Yours truly,
                                        WL Hensley [signature]
Page 51

C.J. Doyle J.H.Doyle
Doyle & Doyle
Attorneys and Counsellors at Law
Springfield, Illinois
Springfield, Illinois,April 4, 1916
Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:  Will you please send me the record of Joshua Armstrong, who served in the Pennsylvania troops and who drew a pension in Green County ? llinois?
 Thanking you in advance for this favor, I am Very truly yours, Nelle W. Doyle  (Mrs P.J.)
Page 52

JAMES H. HULL SPEAKER P. L. LYLES, SPEAKER PRO. TEM. OMAR D. GRAY, CHIEF CLERK HARRY G. MALLETT, ASST. CHIEF CLERK HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 47 GENERAL ASSEMBLY 
 COMMITTEE ON ACCOUNTS A. L. ARMSTRONG, CHAIRMAN THOS. COULTER J. W. McKNIGHT S. D. McMILLEN B. A. TAYLOR (WRIGHT )D. W. DARBY JOHN C. FUGATE FLORANCE J. CURRAN JAMES J. SHEEHAN JAMES J. KYLE JOHN W. PRAISWATER 
Clinton Mo March 30th 1914
Commissioner of Pensions, Washington D.C. 
My Dear Sir: As the Great Grand Son of Joshua Armstrong  I desire information, as to whether or not he was a  Pensioner of the Revolutionary War or War of 1812.  From best information obtainable, he was Born about 1757 or 58 and Enlisted in the Revolutionary War about 1774 from State of Pennsylvania, and served under direct Command of Gen. George Washington during 1774-75-76 and was placed upon the Pension Roll for such service. also, understand he was in war of 1812. My information is that he married Sarah Mors or Ross .Thanking you in advance for this information and assuring you of my willingness to meet expense if any is incurred in formulating same -and awaiting  your early reply-TI am Yours Truly  J.L. Armstrong Clinton Mo.
Page 53

House of Representatives U.S. - Washington, D. C., Feb 10, 1909
Hon. Commissioner of Pensions Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:  Kindly advise me if the records in your office discloses that Joshua Armstrong served in the Revolutionary war from the state of heires of Pennsylvania on Maryland.  Respectfully Ben F. Caldwell M.C.
Page 54

La Grande Ore May 2nd 1932 
Pension Beaura ( Bureau) Washington D.C 
Dear Sir Please send me revolutonary record Justina Armstrong born 1756.
Mrs H.J.Rittee
LaGrande Oregon

STAMP: Received May 9, 1932. Pension ?
Page 55

W.23.461.                                         25945

Kansas City, Mo.
Mar 3. 1909

Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.

Sir:
      Subject to regulations governing will you please give me a Certificate of the services of
      Joshua Armstrong -
      A soldier in the Continental Army from Pennsylvania.
      His name is in the Pension list of Revolutionary war soldiers- located in Green County - Illinois, 1832.
      Your petitioner - a pensioner of the line war - No 1 119 825. States that the above mentioned Joshua Armstrong daughter, Margarit was his grandmother, wife of his grandfather William Bridges. Their home was near OFallow, Illinois, 
     With great respect I beg to remain. Your obedient servant-
                William E. Bridges
3536 Genessee St,  Kansas City, MO

A seal was placed on the lower left side of the document circular with PENSION across the top and OFFICE across the bottom U. On the left side and S. On the right side with MAR 8 1909 in the middle. (Late No 421 W 15th st) handwritten below the seal.

(End of page)
Page 56

To reply to your request for a statement of the military history of ____ *** Armstrong, a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or/and his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.  W. File 23,461

Dates of Enlistment or appointment
Length of Service
Rank
Officers Under whom service was rendered
Captain
Colonel
State

77     2 mos.    Pvt      Leard   Chambers   PA
-        2 "          "          Leinet? Jenkins
-        2"           "          at [?] Fort
August 1, 1781 4 1/2 mos  "  Bruce
                        [Setificer]  Anderson  Crockett
                        Exped under Gen. Geo Rogers   Clarke at Wheeling MA
Battles engaged in, Chestnut Hill + Seven Stars during 1st enlistment.
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Cumberland Co, PA
Date of application for pension, December 2, 1833 Allowed.
Residence at date of application, Greene County, Illinois
Age at date of application [crossed out] Born August 1, 1756 at Lancaster, PA
Remarks: Soldier married Rockingham County Virginia July 7, 1785  Sarah daughter of Morris Morris
Died September 25, 1844 or 1845 res Jersey Co. Ill
Made application February 6, 1846 ac 8-2
Very Respectfully, 
______
Commissioner

*Soldier's brother John Armstrong taken prisoner and died from poison a few days after his release
*[soldier's brother] Joseph [Armstrong] killed in expedition-wounded at Falls of the Ohio.
Page 57

August 5, 1930    MCS: MLB Rev. and 1812 Wars Section  Mrs Henry W. English Jacksonville, Illinois 
Dear Madam:  You are advised that the Revolutionary War records of this bureau show that last payment of pension of Joshua Armstrong was made to his widow, Sarah Armstrong, September 25, 1845, the date of his death. He died in Jersey County, Illinois. 
On account of his services, his widow was also allowed pension on her application executed February 6, 1846, at which time she was eighty-two years of age and a resident of Jersey County, Illinois. In order to obtain the date of last payment of her pension, and possibly the date of her death, it is suggested that you address the Comptroller General, Records Division, General Accounting Office, Washington, D. C., citing the following data: Sarah Armstrong, widow of John Armstrong, Certificate No. 4986, issued August 4, 1849, rate $41.66 per annum, commenced March 4, 1848, Act of February 2, 1848, Illinois Agency. You may obtain the date of last payment of pension of Thomas Moore, and the address of the person to whom it was paid, and possibly the date of death of this soldier, by addressing the Comptroller General, Records Division, General Accounting Office, Washington, D. C., citing the following data: -- Thomas Moore, Certificate No. 25819, issued January 9, 1834, rate $20 per annum, commenced March 4, 1831, Act of June 7, 1832, Illinois Agency. The papers on file in the pension claim, Survivor's Ctf. 963, made by George W. Bowman, contain no data relative to his wife, and no claim for pension was made by any one as the widow of this soldier. Very truly yours
 E. W. MORGAN Acting Commissioner
Page 58

Rev. & 1812
Wars Section
AWF/ILL

                                                      July 28, 1930.


J.A. Stice
Shelby I’ll, Illinois

Dear Sir:

               You are advised that it appears from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W.23461, that Joshua Armstrong was born August 1, 1756 at Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

               While residing in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, he enlisted and served with the Pennsylvania troops as follows: in 1777, two months as a private in Captain Leard’s Company, Colonel Chambers’ Regiment, was in engagements at Chestnut Hill and Seven Stars near Guelph Mill; two months under Lieutenant Jenkins in an expedition against the Indians at Standing Stone, date not stated stated; two months as a scout at Wheeling fort, dates and officers not stated; from August , 1781, under Captain Bruce, and as an artificer under Anderson, Foreman of Artificers, in GeneralGeorge Roger’s Clark’s expedition to the Falls of the Ohio, and served four and one-half months; he also served two months under Colonel Marshall at Wheeling, no dates given.
                   He was allowed pension on his application executed December 2, 1833, at which time he was living in Greene County, Illinois.
                   He died September 25, 1844 or 1845.
                   The soldier married July 7, 1785, in Rockingham County, Virginia, Sarah Morris, daughter of Morris Morris, of Rockingham County, Virginia.
                 She was allowed pension on her application executed February 6, 1846, at which time she was a resident of Jersey County, Illinois, aged eighty-two years.
(End of page)
Page 59

The soldier stated that his brother, John Armstrong, was prisoner in his first tour of 1777, and confined in Philadelphia the British abandoned that place, when he was released and died a few days afterwards having been poisoned while in captivity, and also that his brother, Joseph Armstrong, was killed in the expedition to the Falls of the Ohio.

     There are no further data as to family.
                   Very truly yours,

                    E.W. Morgan,
                    Acting Commissioner
Page 60

Rev. And 1812
Wars Section
AWF/eel

                                                         June 11, 1929

Robert Armstrong 
1836 East 5th Street
Long Beach, California

Sir:
     I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W.23461, it appears that Joshua Armstrong was born August 1, 1756, at Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
     While residing in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, he enlisted and served with the Pennsylvania Troops as follows:
     In 1777, two months as a private in Captain Leard’s Company, Colonel Chambers’ Regiment, was in engagements at Chestnut Hill and Seven Stars near Guelph Mill; two months under Lieutenant Jenkins in an expedition against the Indians at Standing Stone, date not stated; two months as a scout at Wheeling Fort, dates and officers no stated; from August 1, 1781, under Captain Bruce, and, as an artificer under Anderson, Foreman of Artificers, in General George Roger’s Clark’s expedition to the Falls of the Ohio, and served four and one-half months; he also served two 

(End of page)
Page 61

Months under Colonel Marshall at Wheeling, no dates given. 
     He was allowed pension on his application executed December 2, 1833, at which time he was living in Greene County, Illinois.
     He died September 25, 1844 or 1845.
     The soldier married July 7, 1785, in Rockingham County, Virginia, Sarah Morris, daughter of Morris Morris, of Rockingham County, Virginia.
      She was allowed pension on her application executed February 6, 1846, at which time she was living in Jersey County, Illinois, aged eighty-two years.
     The soldier stated that his brother, John Armstrong, was taken prisoner in his first tour of 1777, and confined in Philadelphia until the British abandoned that place, when he was released and died a few days afterwards having been poisoned while in captivity, and also that his brother, Joseph Armstrong, was killed in the expedition to the Falls of the Ohio.
      There are no further data as to family.
                           Respectfully,
                           Earl D. Church
                           Commissioner.
Page 62

Rev. War Section.

March 18, 1918.

Honorable Henry T. Rainey,
     House of Representatives.
My dear Mr. Rainey:
                            In response to your letter dated the fifteenenth instant, requesting information for Mr. Byron Armstrong of Jacksonville, Illinois, I have the honor to advise you that the papers in the claim W. File No. 23, 451 Rev. War, show that Joshua Armstrong was allowed pension on his application executed December 2, 1833, at which tine he was a resident and Justice of the Peace in Greene County, Illinois.
                             He stated that he was born in Lancaster County Pennsylvania, August 1, 1756, and resided in Cumberland County, when he was drafted in the Pennsylvania troops as follows.
                              In 1777, he served two months as a Private under Captain Leard, attached to Colonel Chambers’ regiment, and was in engagements at Chestnut Hill, and at Seven Stars near Guelph Mill’ where his brother John Armstrong was captured and confined in Philadelphia until the British abandoned that place, when he was released and died a few days afterwards, alleging that he had been poisoned while in captivity. 
                               Some time after (date not stated), he served two months under Lieutenant Jenkins in an expedition against the 

(End of page)
Page 63

Indiana at Standing Stone. 
                                  He next served two months as a about at Wheeling Fort, no officers nor dates stated. 
                                  Enlisted at Pittsburgh, August 1, 1781, and served four and one half months as a Private under Captain Bruce; and as an Artificer under one Anderson {foreman of Artificers) and Colonel Crockett is General George Roger’s Clarke’s expedition to the Falls of the Ohio, where his brother Joseph Armstrong was killed.
                                  He also served a tour of two months under Colonel Marshall at Wheeling, no dates given.
                                  Soldier married in Rockingham County (handwritten along the side Rec/ e.c.t.) Virginia, July 7 1785, Sarah Morris daughter of Morris Morris.
                                  Joshua Armstrong died September 25, 1845, and his widow Sarah was allowed pension on her application executed February 6, 1846, while eighty-two years of age, and a resident of Jersey County, Illinois.
                                  There is no further data relative to family.
                           Very truly yours,
                            E.C. Tieman
                            Acting Commissioner

Armstrong-2
Page 64

April 14, 1916.

Mrs. C.J. Doyle, 
Springfield,
Illinois

Madam:-
     In response to your letter dated the fourth instant, you are advised that the papers in claim. W.File NO. 23,451 Rev. War, show that Joshua Armstrong was allowed pension on is application executed December 2, 1833, at which time he was a resident of and Justice of the Peace in Greene County Illinois.
     He stated that he was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania August 1, 1756, and was a resident of Cumberland County. Pennsylvania, when he was drafted in the Pennsylvania troops as follows.
     In 1777, served two months as a Private under Captain Leard, attached to Colonel Chambers’ regiment, and was in the engagements at Chestnut Hill, and at Seven Stars near Guslph Mill where his brother John Armstrong was taken prisoner, and was confined in Philadelphia until the British abandoned that place, when he was released and died a few days afterwards, alleging that he had been poisoned while in captivity.
     Some time after (date not stated) he served two months
(End of page)
Page 65

Under Lieutenant Jenkins in an expedition against the Indians at Standing Stone.
     He next served two months as a Scout at Wheeling Fort, no officers stated.
     Enlisted at Pittsburgh, August 1, 1781, and served four and one half months as a Private under Captain Bruce; and as an Artificer under one Anderson, the foreman of Artificers, and Colonel Crockett, in General George Roger’s Clarke’s expedition to the Falls of the Ohio, where his brother Joseph Armstrong was killed.
     He also served a tour of two months under Colonel Marshall at Wheeling, no lates given.
     Soldier married in Rockingham County, Virginia, July 7, 1785, Sarah Morris daughter of Morris Morris.
     Joshua Armstrong died September 25, 1845, and his widow Sarah was allowed pension on her application executed February 6, 1846, while eighty-two years of age and a resident of Jersey County, Illinois.
     There is no further data relative to family.
                          Very Respectfully,
                             GM Saltzgaber
                           Commissioner.
Armstrong-2.
Page 66

March 31, 1914.

To Hon. Walter L. Hensley
House of Representatives
April 13, 1916

Hon. A.L. Armstrong.
Clinton.
Missouri.
My dear Mr. Armstrong:-
  
          In response to your letter dated the 30” instant.  You are advised that the papers in claim W. File 23.461 show that Hoshua Armstrong was allowed pension on his application executed December 2, 1833. At which time he was a resident and Justice of the Peace in Greene County, Illinois.
          He stated that he was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania August 1. 1756. And resided in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania when he served in the Pennsylvania troops as follows:
         In 1777. Two months as a Private under Captain Leard. Attached to Colonel Chambers’ regiment. And was in the engagements at Chestnut Hill, ad at Seven Stars near Guelph Mill where his brother, John Armstrong was taken prisoner and confined in Philadelphia until the British abandoned that place, when he was released and died a few days afterwards, alleging that he had been poisoned while in captivity.
      Sometime after (date not stated) he served two months under Lieutenant Jenkins in an expedition against the Indians at Standing Stone.
Page 67

 He next served two months as a Scout at Fort Wheeling, no officers stated. 
Enlisted at Pittsburgh, August 1, 1781, and served four and one half months as a Private under Captain Bruce, and as an Artifiice , under one Anderson, the foreman of Artificers, and Colonel Crocket. in General George Rogers Clarke's expedition to the Falls of the Ohio, where his brother Joseph Armstrong was killed. He also served a tour of two months under Colonel Marshall at Wheeling. 
Joshua Armstrong married in Rockingham County, Virginia. July 7, 1785, Sarah Morris daughter of Morris Morris: Soldier died September 25, 1845, and his widow Sarah was allowed pension on her application executed February 6, 1846, while eighty- two years of age and a resident of Jersey County, Illinois. There is no further data as to family, and no reference to service in the War of 1812. 
Very respectfully, G. M. Saltzgaber Commissioner.
 Auditors report of date of death accepted
Download
Page 68

February 13, 1909.
Hon. Ben Franklin Caldwell, House of Representatives. My dear Mr. Caldwell:  In reply to your letter dated and received on the 10 instant, I have the honor to advise you that one Joshua Armstrong, a resident and Justice of the Peace in Greene County, Illinois, applied for pension December 2, 1833, alleging that he was born at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, August 1, 1756, and resided in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania when he served in the Pennsylvania troops as follows In 1777, two months as private under Captain Leard, attached to Colonel Chambers' regiment, and was in the engagements at Chestnut Hill, and at Seven Stars near Gulph Mill where his brother, John Armstrong, was taken prisoner and confined in Philadelphia until the British abandoned that place, when he was released and died a few days afterwards, alleging that he had been poisoned while in captivity. Sometime after, (date not stated) he served two months under Lieut. Jenkins in an expedition against the Indians at Standing Stone. He next served two months as a scout at Wheeling Fort, no officers mentioned. Enlisted at Pittsburgh August 1, 1781 and served four and one half months as private under Captain Bruce, and as an Artificer under one
Page 69

Anderson the foreman of Artificers, and Colonel Crockett, in General George Rogers Clarke's expedition to the Falls of the Ohio, where his brother Joseph Armstrong was killed. He also served a tour of two months under Colonel Marshall at Wheeling . His claim was allowed. He married in Rockingham County, Virginia, July 7, 1785, Sarah Morris, daughter of Morris Morris soldier died September 25, 1844 or 1845 and his  widow  was allowed pension(Wid File 23.461)on an application executed February 6, 1846, while eighty-two years of age and a re- Jersey County, Illinois. No further data as to family.  
Very respectfully,  Commissioner.