Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 6900, Benjamin Curtis, Conn.
Page 1

(3 - 1776) 
SERVICE Conn. 
Curtis, Benjamin 
Aurelia 
NUMBER W. 6900 
B.L.Wt.9206-160-55
|
CONTENTS
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9858
 New York R |
Benjamin Curtis 
Camden in the State of New York 
who was a private in the regiment commanded by Colonel Sheldon of the Connecticut line, for the term of One year |
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 8 Dollars per month, to commence on the 22 of April 1818 |
Certificate of Pension issued the 27 of April 1819 and sent to Charles Wylie Esq. Rome Oneida Co. N York |
Arrears to 4th of March 1819, 10, 83.43
Semi-anl all'ce ending 4 September.  48 --- $131.43 - 
{Revolutionary claim, Act 18th March, 1818.}
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4709 |
New York Albany
 Aurelia Curtis, 
widow of of the Benjamin Curtiss Conn.
who served in the Revolutionary war , as a Dragoon 
Increased from $40 |
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 50 dollars 00 cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853. |
Certificate of Pension issued 9 the day of Septr. 1856 and sent to S. M. Marks 
Albany N.Y. |
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 14. Vol. N
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74.559 Mrch 2/53  Apl 16/53 |
Aurelia Curtis, wife of Benjamin Curtis, dec |
Dragoon 
Rev.War 
Col. Sheldon 
Ct. line |
Pensioner
NY Feby 53 - 4709 | 
Ad: 160 A.C. Oct. 24/55 
Boynton  BO Yath
J. Hatheway Rome NY 

Vol. C2 - 150.
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In the matter of 
Benjamin Curtis 
Revy Soldier
for restoration |
No. 9858 |
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State of New York 
Oneida County ss
Circuit Court for the 
5th District. 
On this 30th day of March 1825 personally in open court being a Court of record by Natuck, for the said District Benjamin Curtis of Camden in said County aged 69 years & upwards, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath declare that he served in the Revolutionary war as follows, he enlisted in April 1777 at Plymouth Connecticut for the war in Capt. Crafts Company in Colonel Sheldons Regiment, and continued to serve until April 1778, when he was discharged in New Jersey, and received a discharge signed by Col. Sheldon which has been lost, and that he was present at the battle of Brandywine, and several skirmishes. That he was inscribed on the Pension List Roll of the New York Agency and received a certificate dated 27th day of April 1819 and numbered 9858. 
And in pursuance of the act of 1st May - 1820, I do solemnly swear that I was a resident Citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March 1818, and that I have not since that time by gift sale, or in any manner disposed of my property or any part thereof with intent thereby so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress entitled ""an act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land & naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary War" passed on the 18th day of March 1818, and that I have not nor has any person in trust for me any property or securities, contracts or debts due to me
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nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed by me subscribed 
Real Estate, 8 or 10 acres of Swamp land in Camden, that is not considered of any value, and which the assessors of the town refused to enter in the assessment list, but which is put down at  $ 10.00
Personal property 
One mare worth 30.00
one Heifer - 3 yr old - 10.00
Six Sheep - 6.00 |
$56.00 |
No other personal property except ordinary household furniture, and bed & bedding and clothing for myself 
That I have no family but now live in the family of Ira Curtis, that my occupation, is that of a farmer, but I am unable to labor much and have no other property or means of support, than what is above contained. 
Benjamin Curtis,
Sworn to & declared in open Court before me the day & year aforesaid 
N William Circuit Judge
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State of New York 
Oneida County ss.  Miles Spencer of Camden in said County, being duly sworn says that he is acquainted with Benjamin Curtis within mentioned, and is acquainted with his property contained in his Inventory, and that he considers the amt of the valuation of his real estate at ten dollars, in as much as this deponent consider the same worth, and that the personal property as valued by the said Curtis the mare at $30.00 the heifer at $10.00 and the sheep at $6.00 is as this deponent believes a fair and honest valuation, to the whole real personal amounting $56.00. --- And further says not. 
Miles Spencer.
Sworn before me  this 30th day of March 1825 
B. P. Johnson A Comm | 
State of New York 
Oneida County ss.   I Eliasaph Dorchester Clerk of the County of Oneida & of the Circuit Court of said County do hereby certify that the foregoing oath & Schedule to the first annexed are truly copied from the records of said Court, and I do further certify that it is the opinion of the Court that the whole amount of property contained in said Schedule is fifty six dollars and no more.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & the seal of said County the first day of April 1825.
E. Dorchester, Clk.
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In the matter of 
Benjamin Curtiss 
an Indigent soldier |
April 22d 1818 
Col Sheldons Regt Connecticut 
line 1777 1 year 
Apr 77 - Amed. Missing
Admitted 
The applicant seems to have served in the Battle of Brandywine 11 Sept 77
 further that of [illegible] 4 Oct 77--- This agrees with the pens. of service as stated on the roll New York
Admitted
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State of New York 
Oneida County ss }. On this twenty second day of April 1818 before me the Subscribed one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of Onieda County personally appears, Benjamin Curtis aged 62 years resident in the town of Camden County of and State of New York who being by me duly Sworn according to Law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the provision made by the late act of Congress, entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the Land & naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary war." That the said Benjamin Curtis enlisted at Plymouth in the County of Litchfield in the State of Connecticut, in a company of Dragoons commanded by a Captain Crafts, to save during the war and was attached to a Regiment commanded a Colonel Sheldon, and to General Pulaski Division. This deponent enlisted he thinks in April 1779 and was discharged in April 1780, and was then discharged, on account of sickness having served one year. This deponent served also seven months previous to this in the year 1778 and received a regular discharge. This deponents discharge after his years service was given by the above named Colonel Sheldon, this
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deponent was discharged in the State of New Jersey at a place called Marden head near Morristown. This deponent was present as the Battle of Brandywine, at the Battle of Germantown, and in many other engagements of a smaller nature. This deponent was one of the life Guards of General Greene at the Battle of Brandywine - This deponent is in reduced circumstances and stands in need of his country's assistance for support and that he has no other evidence now in his power of his said services his discharge being lost.
Benjamin Curtis 
 Sworn to & declared before me the day year aforesaid 
Charles Wylie one of the Judges of
Oneida Court Pleas
I Charles Wylie Judge as aforesaid do certify that it appears to my satisfaction that the said Benjamin Curtis did serve in the Revolutionary war, as stated in the preceding declaration against the common enemy; and I have transmit the proceedings & testimony taken & had before me to the Secretary for the Department & of War pursuant to the directions of the before mentioned act of congress. I am satisfied from his reduced circumstances  he needs his country asst. for support
Rome, Oneida Co. April 22 1818
Charles Wylie
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Clerks office 
Oneida County. ss.   I certify that Charles Wylie was a Judge for the County at the time of making the within affidavits & certificate, & that his signature to the same appears to be of his own proper hand writing Witness the Seal of said County the 23 day of May 1818 
James A Woodgood Clk 
State of New York 
Oneida County Ss.   Evi Castle of Camden in Oneida County being sworn saith that he is well acquainted with Benjamin Curtis above named & believes that said Benjamin Curtis did serve as above stated. This deponent further saith that the said Benjamin is poor & in reduced circumstances as this deponent believes stands in need of assistance from his country for support 
E Castle
Sworn July 10th 1818  before me Charles Wylie
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State of New York 
Oneida County SS.
On this Second day of November 1854 before me a Justice of the Peace in & for said County, personally came Ambrose Curtis Esq of Camden, NewYork, who is a credible witness & who after being duly sworn makes oath, that he was well acquitted with Benjamin Curtis & his wife Aurrellia in the year 1824 & before & since that time; said Benjamin was a resident of said town & a pensioner of the United States ; That in the fall of the year 1824, said Benjamin agreed to give his wife a seperate maintainence as deponent has ever since then understood, as there was at times a want of harmony in the family, & a seperation took place, she was to live with her son, and quit claimed her life interest in the homestead farm, on conditions; and her said Son gave a bond for her support, which bound & quit claim deed are now held by a resident here & bear date on the twenty fourth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & twenty four, Said bond & quit claim deed were drawn by deponents Father, who was a commissioner of deeds & before whom said papers were acknowledged, & who is now dead, & were executed & delivered at that time, & the Seperation took place before or at the time of giving said bond Said Benjamin died in the year following or thereabouts & said Aurilla is still living & is still widow of said Benjamin, that no divorce was sued for or obtained by either party. Deponent is in no wise of kin to said Benjamin or Aurilia & has no interest in her claim for pension 
A Curtiss
Subscribed & Sworn to before me on this 2 day of Nov 1854 & I  have no interest in the widows claim 
W. R. Paddock 
Justice of the Peace
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State of New York, 
ONEIDA COUNTY, CLERK'S OFFICE,} ss.
I DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That W R Haddock Esquire, whose name is subscribed to the annexed Jurat and thereon written, was, on the 2 day of Nov 1854 a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, and sworn and duly authorized. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice, and verily believe that the signature to the said Jurat is genuine. 
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I hereunto affixed the seal of the said County, and subscribed my name, this fourth day of Nov 1854
R Hulbert CLERK.
Page 15

Aurelia Curtis 
74.557
Agent
Jay Hatheway
Rome
N.Y.
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State of New York, 
County of Oneida }SS:
 On this 9 day of April A. D. 1855 personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, within and for said County, Aurelia Curtis aged 84 years, a resident of Camden in the State of N. York who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of Benjamin Curtis deceased, who was a private in the company commanded by Captain (to her unknown) in the regiment of ---Commanded by --- in the Revolutionary War with Great Britain, of 1776, that her said husband went as a at private soldier on or about the day of A. D. 17 for the term of and continued in actual service in said war for about the term of month and was honorably discharged at on or about the day of 17 for his services in said war, he was placed on pens. list She further states, that she was married to the said Benjamin Curtis in Camden on the day of October 1816 by one Henry Smith who was a Clergyman and that her name before her said marriage was Aurelia Sterne that  her said husband died at Camden Oneida Co. on the 27 day of September A.D. 1825 and that she is now a widow. & has sent proof of said marriage, & of his death to pens. off. & has herself been made a pensioner, at $40 per ann. No 4.709 as of Feb. '53
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which I to she may be entitled under the act approved March 3d, 1855,.
Aurelia Curtis her mark 
We Elijah Gaylord and Pauline S. Ashpole residents of Camden in the State of New York, upon our oaths declare, that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Aurelia Curtis Widow 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 that she is now widow. 
The foregoing declaration and affidavit was sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written, and I certify that I know the affiants to be credit ble persons that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in the claim Widow Curtis made her mark above, as from infirmity she cannot write 
Alexander Gifford Justice of Peace
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State of New York, 
ONEIDA COUNTY CLERK' S OFFICE, } ss. 
I DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That Alexander Gifford Esquire, whose name is subscribed to the Jurat of the foregoing affidavit and there on written, was, on the 9 day of April 1855 a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, and sworn and duly authorized. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice, and verily believe that the signature to the said Jurat is genuine. 
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto affixed the seal of the said County, and subscribed my 12 day of April 1855
Richard Hulbert CLERK.
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De novo Declaration, under 2d Sec. act 3 Feb 
State of New York 
Oneida County ⎬ ss: 
On this 20th day of October AD. 1854 personally appeared before in the Circuit & Special Term of the Supreme Court, Wm. J. Bacon presiding Justice, Aurelia Curtis, a resident of the town of Camden N.Y. aged 84 years, who first being 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 3d of Feby. 1853, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war, that she is the widow of Benjamin Curtis, who was a soldier of the Revolution, & a pensioner of the U.S. under act of 1818 at the rate of $96. per an; as she believes 
She farther declares, that she was married to the said Benjamin in the fall of 1817, & that her said husband died on the 27th day of September 1825, that she was not married to him prior to the 2d of January 1800, but at the time above stated. She further declares that she is now a widow, & refers to the proof already sent to the Department in further proof of said marriage, of her widowhood - 
Witness J. Hatheway 
Aurelia Curtis her mark 
all which foregoing Declaration was Sworn to in open Court, & her mark made 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the Seal of said Court, at Rome, on the day first above named. 
R Hulbert Clerk
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O. W. and N. Division.  3---525. |
M.B.H. Wid F.6900. Benjamin Curtis 
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. Bureau of Pensions, 
Washington, D. C., December 16. 1905
Sir: 
In reply to your request for a statement of the military history of Benjamin Curtis a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, will find below the desired information as contained in his (and his widow's ) application for pension on file in this Bureau. 
DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. April 1777 
LENGTH OF SERVICE. April 1778 
RANK. Private 
OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. CAPTAIN. Crafts co of Dragoons 
COLONEL. Sheldon, Pulakski's Division STATE. Conn. 
See widows B.L.
Battles engaged in, Brandywine and Germantown. 
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Enlisted at Plymouth, Litchfield Co, Conn Date of application for pension, April 22, 1818; his claim was allowed.
Residence at date of application, Camden, Oneida Co. N. Y. 
Age at date of application, 62 years: date and place of birth not stated 
Remarks: In this battle [Brandywine] he was one of the Life Guard of Gen. Green He married Aurelia Sterne, in Oct. 1816 at Camden, N. Y. He died at Camden, N.Y. Sept. 27 1825; Widow went to reside with her son, in 1824, name not given; she was 84 years in 1854, was living in 1856. Her claim was allowed. 
Very respectfully, 
Mr. Harry A. Morre 
Cleveland N. Y. 
Commissioner,
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Mch 17, 1904 His to 
Mr. C.E. Huntley 
Camden, N.Y.  |
1905. Dec 16 - History to Harry 
A. Marre M.B.H. |

Revy  Index A WIDOW, & c. 
File No. 6900 
Aurelia Curtis
Wid
Benjamin Curtis 
Dragoon Rev War |
Act: Feby. 3rd 1853
Index:  -- Vol. A Page 160 
[Arrangement of 1870.]
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9. 206 

Histories
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No. 74557 
ACT OF MARCH 3, 1855. 
Received Apr. 16, 1895 |
Benj. Curtis Sec. Drag. 
Col. Sheldon 
Ct. Line 
Rev. War. 

9206.160_55 

J. Hatheway 
Rome
N.Y.
Page 23

4.709
J. J. Coombs 
Dec 21 1853 
New York A. |
Aurelia Curtis 
widow of Benjamin 
who served in the Revolutionary 
war, as a private |
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 40 dollars 00 cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853. |
Certificate of Pension issued 10th day of Novr 1854 
and sent to Jay Hathaway 
Rome
N.Y. |
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 72 Vol. A
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No 5118 
Aurelia Curtis 
widow 
of Benjamin 
N. Y. Let to J. Hathaway Oct 16/54 
J.Hathaway Oct 25 1854 

Act 3rd Feb. 1853
Page 25

47272 is not 
O.W. File and it 
does not draw anybody 
by name of Curtis 
A.O.T.
DEC. 15 1905
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Pen. act /53. N.Y.
BO Upton
Page 27

Pension Office 
Oct 13/54 
Sir:
Please report time of last payment to or death of within named pensioner 
W. Cole,
for Comm.
R. J. Atkinson 
Aud Present 

Benjamin Curtis paid to 4 Mar 1820 & dropped.
R.J. Atkinson 
Auditor 
W. Randall
Page 28

Rome N.Y.
Oct. 10 --
Hon Com Pens 
Sir:
I send inclosed aff for Pension, by Widow Curtis. when adjudication is had, please Send me result 
Your obt sevt.
J.Hatheway
Page 29

Aurelia Curtis 
Wid. of 
Benjamin 
Oneida Co.
N.Y. |
Act /53.
Admitted for $40.00 per An: 
Com: Feby 3 1853 

Revy 

Jay Hathaway 
Rome. 
N.Y.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 
Pension Office, Official Business

Commissioner
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for his labor for former years claimant and for taking care of him and his wife who were old and inform states that claimant paid by annex taxes a note given him by the deponent for claimant states that was due of personal property given not taken except for his wife if hence died, except that in contained in the schedule.
Claimant aged 69, has no family but how lives in the family of this Curtis.
 I certify that I examined the case and I am of the opinion that the according to the principles which have governed in pension decisions the claim ought to be admitted.
The letter, July 9. 1825 
to Bev P Johnson Esq
Rome N.T.
Pension certificate files within
19 
evidence 27 Apr 1825

Application to be continued and Act 4th May 1820 
Benjamin Curtis 
New York.
Private, served 1 year from Apr. 1777.
Real estate 8 or 10 acres of swamp land  considered of no value which the assessed to the best assessment to record that which is put down.  10.--
Mare $30 - 30 yr. old heifer $10. --  40.--
six sheep - 6.--
30 March 1825, dated sched.  $56.
In answer to a letter for the dept requiring statement of any property dispose of since Mar 1819 and why he had not make mention application, he has later an affidavit that states that he had admitted on which he was able to live that he was obliged lately to sell it for a debt of $600 due to Ibra Curtis which was a Bonne fide debt, the personal property  which he has had since.
18 of March 1818 has been expended in his  support and towards a debt due Ibra Curtis in addition to the last copy of deed estate date in Aug 1823, consisting $600
Affidavit of Ibra Curtis he states the the purchase of land containing 45 acres this was $600 being as much

[ink faded]
Page 31

Aurelia Curtis 
Widow of Benjamin 
New York 
Merchsed. 3 Feby 1853 
1 year dragoon $50 
from the passage of the 
Act deducting $40
a year, 

Clerk to J.H. Coombs Esq.
Present

St Marks Albany N.Y.
Page 32

Payable semi-annually. The first payment on this Certificate will be made on the 4th of September next, in New York at the Branch Bank U.S. |


R.E.Chadcell
Page 33

War Department 
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIM. 
I CERTIFY that, in conformity with the Law of the United States , of the 18th of March, 1818,
 Benjamin Curtis late a 
private in the Army of the Revolution, is inscribed 
on the Pension List, Roll of the New York
Agency, at the rate of eight dollars per month, to commence on the twenty second day of April one thousand eight hundred and eighteen GIVEN at the War Office of the United States , this twenty seventh day of April one thousand eight hundred and nineteen. 
J.C. Calhoun
Secretary of War.
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War Office
J.L. Edwards, Esq.
Chf Clk,
Page 35

Returns are respectfully requested in the enclosed case by Benj P Johnson 
Rome, Oneida Co.
New York
April 4, 1825
Page 36

Brief in the case of Aurelia Curtis, widow of Benjamin 
Oneida County and State of New York.
act 3d Feby, 1854. |
Claim "original")
 Proof exhibited, (if original) 
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state substance.
Husband was pensioned under the Act of 18 March 1818 & offer under the act of 1st May 1820. Pensioner served in the Connecticut Continental line "from 6" March, 1777, to March 6" 1778. One year as per his Original Declaration & Connecticut Rolls. He died in September 1825, as per the evidence of three credible witnesses. Marriage is proven by two credible witnesses, who testifies they were present at the same. Widowhood & identity of the applicant is established by the affidavit, of three credible affiants.
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of claim? If so, what?
The service of one year, was rendered as a dragoon she is therefore, entitled to $50 a year, instead $40, Issue Certificate and send to J. J. Coombs Esq of this City
Thomson Inlett 
Examiner 
Jay Hathaway Esqr 
Rome, N.Y.
Name and residence of Agent 
J.B. [illegible]
Examining Clerk.
Page 37

Benj Curtis
N York Roll
Sept 1819
Page 38

Rome N.Y. June 25 1825
JL Edwards Esq  
Enclosed are the paper required in the case of Benjamin Curtis.
Returns are respectfully requested to the subscriber- 
Benj. P. Johnson -
Page 39

Washington, Dec. 18th 1855. 
Sir:
In the case of Aurelia Curtis, widow of Benjamin, a pensioner of N.Y. under act of 1853, referred to in the enclosed letter I think there is a small increase due on account of the service having been in the cavalry.
I have left my power of ally at home but will file it when I came to the Office again. 
Very Respectfully 
Your obt servt 
J. J. Coombs 
S. Herriot Esq.
Court of Pensions
Page 40

Brief in the case of Aurelia Curtis Widow of Benjamin
County and State of New York act 3 Feby 1853 |
Claim, (" for increase.") 
Proof exhibited, (if original) 
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance. 
Her husband was pensioned under the Act of 1818 as $96 a year for a year's service in Sheldon's Dragoons He was not continued under the Act 1820 because he was not in indigent circumstances.-- & he was consequently only entitled to the year's service and not to $96 a year under the act of 1853. When her case was allow the examiner only computed the service pension for Infantry service at $40 a year, when it should have been for Cavalry at $50 year The pension is therefore allowed at $50 instead $40 a year.
 Name and residence of Agent 
S H Marks Esq 
Albany NY
Thornton Riplett
Examining Clerk.
Page 41

Rome, N.Y. Nov. 4
Hon Com Pens.
Sir 
I send you affidavits in the case of Widow Mercia Harte app for bounty land
please send me result 
I am your obt Servant 
Jay Hatheway 

I send affidavit herewith, exploratory of  facts in case of application for pension by Wid: Aurelia Curtis --
JH

Also Declaration by D. Starks app for bounty land, for Militia service 
War of 1812
I mail result 
Yours J. Hatheway 
4 Nov 1854 
Rome N.Y
Page 42

Hon Comr Pen 
Sir 
Your letter requiring Wid Curtis to execute de novo declarn. in open Court, was inc'd. I send you  her new dedcla. so executed she claims the previous proof sent, to be and in support of present application --- 
I am your ob.svt. 
Jay Hatheway 
Rome N.Y 
Oct 20. '54
Page 43

Albany August 2d 1856, 
J. Minot Eq. 
Commr of Pensions 
Sir, I herewith enclose the affidavits of Mrs Aurelia Curtiss, (a Pensioner under the 2d Ser Act 3d Feby, 1853.) together with my own, & the affidavit of Elijah Gaylord, showing the loss of the Pension certificate of the said Aurelia Curtiss, and have to request (on her behalf,) the issue of a new certificate in line of the one lost --- Having reason to believe that Mrs Curtiss is entitled to an increase of Ten Dollars per annum more than she now received- I venture to request Mr. J. J. Coombs of your city to furnish to your Department the evidence upon which said claim is based. And if compatable with the rules of your office, when a new certificate is issued, please issue one for the increased amount, should it be shown to be due - 
I am Sir 
Most Truly Yours &c  
Saml H. Marks
(over)
Page 44

Mr. Coombs has a power of Atty in connection with myself from Mrs Curtis, which I trust will be due sufficient authority for him- 
S. H. Marks
J.Minot Esq 
Comms.
Page 45

Aurelia Curtis
wid of Benj'm
N.Y. Apl 1853
2d [illegible] admitted
J.H. Coombs
Page 46

Albany December 15 /55
J. J. Coombs Esq 
Sir, 
I am today informed that Benjamin Curtis, decd. the Husband of Mrs Aurelia Curtis was a pensioner under act of 1818, at the rate of $80. per Annum, & died in 1825 - Mrs Curtis drew only $40 per anm under 2d act of 3d February - 
you have Mrs Aurelia Curtis Power of atty for arrears. & it may be that his pension can be increased-- Yours Truly 
S. H. Marks 
Please look into the matter when convenient S. Hill
Page 47

A. 
Certified Copy 
of Deed from 
Benjamin Curtis
to 
Ibri Curtis
Page 48

This Indenture, made the eleventh day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty three between Benjamin Curtis of the town of Camden in the County of Oneida and State of New York of the first part, and Ibri Curtis of the town County & State aforesaid of the second part Witnesseth; that the said party of the first part, for & in consideration of the sum of six hundred dollars to me in hand paid by the said party of the second part, the receipt whereof is hereby confessed & acknowledged, have granted, bargained, sold, remised, released, aliened & confimed. And by these presents, doth grant bargain sell, remise, release, alien and confirm unto the said party of the second part, in his actual possession now being, and to his heirs and assigns forever, all that piece a parcel land lying & being in the town of Camden in the County of Oneida and State of New York and on the north half of Township No 7, and being paid of lot No 31, bounded as follows Beginning at a Stake on the original line of said lot, which is the corner of a piece of land on the same lot, formerly owned by David Smith, thence running north 21 degrees, one hundred & sixty rods thence North 19 degrees west, forty five rods, thence South, one hundred and Sixty rods on a parallel line with the east line of said lot, thence East 21 degrees South to the place of beginning, It is bounded east on land of David Brown, North by land of Daniel Stearns, and west by land of Joel Curtis, and South on land for owned by David Smith, containing forty five acres  be the same more or less together with all and
Page 49

singular the here dilaments & appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining, & the Revernor & Revisions, Remainder & Remainders, rents issues & profits thereof, and all the estate, rights, title, Interest, claim and demand whatsoever of the said party of the first part either in law or equity, of in and to the above bargained premises, with the Here dilaments and appurtenances 
To have & to hold the said above described premises to the said party of the second part his heirs & assigns, to the sole and only proper use, benefit and behoof of the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns forever 
And the said Benjamin Curtis of the first part, for myself his heirs, executors & administrators, do covenant grant bargain, promise and agree, to and with the said party of the second part his heirs & assigns the above bargained premises, in the quiet and peacible possession of the said part of the second part his heirs and assigns, against all & every person or persons, lawfully claiming or to claim, the whole or any part of the above mentioned and described  premises, will forever Warrant & Defend.
In Witness whereof the parties of these presents have hereunto interchangeably set their hands & seals the day and year first above written 
Signed Sealed & delivered 
in presence of 
Wm Stevens Jr.
Billeous Pond

Benjamin Curtis {ss}
Page 50

State of New York. 
Oneida County ss 
Be it remembered that on this eleventh day of August 1823 came before me the within named Benjamin Curtis, the known & duly acknowledged that he executed the within deed for the uses & purposes therein mentioned 
(Signed)  Henry Warner Commissioner Clerks office 
Oneida County ss.  Recorded the 30th day of April 1824 at twelve o'clock. PM. in Book G.G. of Deeds pages 478 & 479. 
E. Dorchester Clk --
State of New York 
Oneida County ss  I hereby certify that the above & within contained is a true & exact Copy of the deed of record in the  Clerks office in this County from Benjamin Curtis to Ibri Curtis, and the acknowledgment & Certificate of record upon the same 
Dated June 25th 1825 
M E. P. Johnson 
A Commissioner under the 
Act of 19th of April 1823
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State of New York 
Oneida County ss. Benjamin Curtis of Camden Oneida County being duly sworn deposes and says, that the reason of his not heretofore applying for a pension has been because he had some little property on which he was enabled to live - a small farm of forty five acres he was obliged to sell to pay a debt of Six hundred dollars due to Ibra Curtis at will appear by a copy of said deed annexed and which debt was bona fide and actually due to him, and the personal property which this deponent has had since the 18th of March 1818 has been expended in Support of this deponent and towards a debt due said Ibra Curtis in addition to the land and that the statement heretofore made as to his now property is just & true 
And further says not 
Benjamin Curtis
Sworn before me 
this 26th day of March 
1825 
MBP Johnson 
A Commissioner
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Declaration to obtain benefits of 2d Section act of Feb 3, 1853, granting pens. to widows 
State of New York 
Oneida County ⎬ ss 
On this 7th day of October AD. 1884, before me a Justice of the Peace in & for said County duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared Widow Aurelia Curtis of Camden in sd County aged 84 years, who after being duly sworn makes the following declaration, that she was the late wife & is now the widow of Benjamin Curtis deceased, of said town, late a pensioner of the U.S. under the act of 1818, at the rate of $96 per annum, as she believes -- that she was married to said Benjamin Curtin at Camden aforesaid, in the fall of the year 1817, that She has her bible or other record of his said marriage & from infirmity does not recollect the month, the marriage ceremony was by the Rev. Henry Smith of the Presbyterian  Church who died some 20 years since, & she does not know of any record of said marriage; he name previous to marriage with said Benjamin, was Aurelia Sterne, said Benjamin died at Camden on the 27th of September 1825 & she has remained to this day his widow & has not intermarried 
She makes this declaration to obtain the benefit to which she is entitled under the act of Congress above recited, & requests the Department to see her a pension certificate at Rome N.Y., to the care of Jay Hatheway 
Aurelia Curtis her mark
Witnesses
Eliza Gaylord
Caroline Rich
Subscribed & sworn to on the day first
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above written before me & I certify that I believe that said Aurelia Curtis is widow of the identical Benjamin Curtis, pensioner as aforesaid, & is of the age above stated, and Eliza Gaylord & Caroline Rich the above subscribing witnesses of the aforesaid after being duly sworn do on their oath testify & say that they saw the said Aurelia sign & swear to the foregoing declaration, & that they have no interest in her claim for pension, and they further depose, that they were usually present & saw said Benjamin Curtis & Aurelia Sterne married by Revd Henry Smith at Camden, in the fall of the year 1817; & that they lived together as man & wife til his death, which occurred in September 1825, in sd town, & said Aurelia has remained to this time his widow.
I certify that deponents are credible witnesses, residents of this & adjoining town. I have no interest in said Widow claim for pension.- 
Eliza Gaylord 
Caroline Rich
Subscribed & sworn to  before me at above date. Said Widow made her mark above, as from infirmity she cannot write- 
A Curtiss 
Justice Peace 
at Camden N.Y 

State of New York, 
ONEIDA COUNTY CLERKS OFFICE, }ss.
I DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That A. Curtis Esquire, whose name is subscribed to the annexed Jurat &c and thereon written, was, on the 7th day of October 1854 a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, and sworn and duly authorized. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice, and verily believe that the signature to the said Jurat &c is genuine. IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have unto affixed the seal of the said County, and subscribed my name, this Ninth day of Oct. 1854
C.Hulbert  CLERK.
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State of New York 
Oneida County ss.   On this 27th day of April 1825 personally appeared before me Ibra Curtis of Camden who being duly sworn, deposes says that he purchased of Benjamin Curtis of Camden a farm containing about forty five acres of land as will appear by the deed annexed, that the amount paid for the same way Six hundred dollars, being the account bonafide due this deponent for his labor for the time of four years in the employ of the said Benjamin Curtis and in taking care of him and his wife who were old & infirm people, and this deponent further saith that the said Benjamin - Curtis paid by an ox toward a note given by this deponent for him and this deponent further says that he residue of personal property of the said Benjamin Curtis since 1818 has been expended  in his support or the stock have died in his hands except what is contained as stated by him in his affidavit for a pension And farther says not 
Ibri Curtis
Sworn before me 
he in day & year aforesaid 
B.P. Johnson. 
A Commissioner &c 
I Certify that the above named Ibri Curtis is a respectable man & his affidavit entitled to full faith deed credit 
B.P. Johnson 
A Commissioner &c
Page 55

State of New York, 
County of Oneida ⎬ ss. On this 24 day of July A.D. 1856, before me the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, Personally appeared Aurelia Curtiss, widow of Benjamin Curtiss deceased, and now a pensioner of the United States, who on her oath declares that her name was placed on the pension Roll of the State of New York, under the 2d Section of the act of 3d February 1853, at the rate of Forty Dollars per annum, and a pension certificate was duly issued to her from the Pension Office of the United States for the amount aforesaid 
And she further states that on or about the first day of January last, she caused her said Pension certificate to be sent through the Post office to Samuel H. Mark, of the City of Albany in said State of New York for the purpose of enabling him to apply for a small increase of her pension to which it is supposed she (deponent) is entitled; 
But she is informed that her agent the said Marks never received her said pension certificate and she verily believed the same is now lost.- 
Aurelia Curtis her mark
Sworn to and subscribed 
before me the day and above 
Written - A.Gifford J.P. }

State of New York 
County of Oneida }ss  Elijah Gaylord, of the Village of Counden in the County & State aforesaid being duly sworn, saith that he is well acquainted with Aurelia Curtis, the above named Deponent. That she is the identical person she represents herself to be. That she now resides in the family of this Deponent and has resided with
Page 56

him for the time of Twenty years and upwards That on or about the first day of January last, Deponent mailed a Letter for the said Aurelia Curtiss to Samuel H. Marks of the city of Albany and enclosed therein the said Aurelia's, Pension certificate, which said Letter was properly superscribed and duly paid or stamped and deposited in the Post Office in the village of Canton in said County - Since which Deponent has been informed by the said Marks, that he has never received said Letter or certificate, and that he has no knowledge of the same - 
Elijah Gaylord 
Sworn & Subscribed this 
24 day of July A.D 1856 
before me, and I hereby 
certify that I am well acquainted with Elijah Gaylord, the above named Deponent, as I am also with the said Aurelia Curtiss, and that they are respectively credible and reliable Witnesses 
Alex Gifford J.P.
State of New York 
City & County of Albany ⎬ss:  Samuel H. Marks of the City of Albany aforesaid, being duly sworn says, that he has nor received the Pension certificate of Aurelia Curtis and has no knowledge of the same-- although he has been repeatedly informed by Elijah Gaylord of Camden, New York, that he forwarded said certificate to him by Mail for Mrs Curtiss, on or about the first day of January last past -- 
Samuel H Marks
Sworn and subscribed 
before me this 2d day of 
August A.D. 1856 }and I certify that I know S. H. Marks the above named Deponent, and that he is a credible Witness 
J. B. Sutevant 
Commissioner of Deeds
Page 57

State of New York, 
ONEIDA COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE. }ss.
I DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That A. Gifford 
Esquire, whose name is subscribed of the Jurat of the foregoing affidavit there on written, was, on the 24th day of July 1856 a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, and sworn and duly authorized. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice, and verily believe that the signatures to the said Jurats are  genuine. 
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto affixed the seal of the said County, and subscribed my name, this 24th day of July 1856 J M Howel CLERK
Page 58

State of New York, 
City and County of Albany, Clerk's office. I, Robert Babcock, Clerk of the said City and County do hereby
CERTIFY that J.B. Sturtevant whose name is subscribed to the certificate of Proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument in writing, and endorsed thereon, was, at the time of taking Proof or Acknowledgment, a Commissioner of Deeds in and for the City aforesaid dwelling in the said city, and duly authorized to take the same; that am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Commissioner, and verily believe that the signature to the said certificate of Proof or Acknowledgment is genuine. and that the said instrument is executed and acknowledged according to the laws of the State of New York In Testimony whereof have hereunto my seal, this 2nd day of Augt. 1856 
R Babcock Clerk
Page 59

ALBERT MORSE. 
DEALER IN 
Lumber, Doors, Sash, Blinds, Lath, 
BUILDING PAPER, ETC., ETC. 
Cleveland, N.Y., Dec. 5 1905 
The Commissioner of Pensions. 
Washington D.C.  [stamp] DEC 8 1905
Sir
Will you please give me all the information possible of Benjamin Curtiss a soldier in the revolution from his application for pension, he being a pensioner on New York pension rolls page 185, give birthplace, date of birth date of death, military record. Maiden name of wife and date of marriage if possible 
Yours respectfully 
Harry A. Morse 

[stamp] U.S. PENSION OFFICE DEC 7 1905
Page 60

ALBERT MORSE. 
DEALER IN 
Lumber, Doors, Sash, Blinds, Lath, 
BUILDING PAPER, ETC., ETC. 
Cleveland, N.Y. Nov 17 1905 
Commissioner of Pensions, [stamp] NOV 21 1905  
Washington. D.C. 
Sire -Please give me all the information obtainable for your pension records of Benjamin Curtiss who enlisted Apr 21 1776 at Salisbury or Saulsbury Conn was in Capt David Smith's company. Col Samuel D Mooris battalion in the Revolutionary war. he was granted a pension also any information if possible of his wife or other relatives. 
Yours respectfully 
Harry A Morse 
Believe above mentioned solder also served a later term of enlistment at expiration of term mentioned
[stamp] U.S. PENSION OFFICE NOV 20 1905
[stamp] U.S. PENSION OFFICE DEC 13 1905
Page 61

[stamp] U.S.P.E. NAVY FEB 25 1904 FILES. 
U S. Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington, D.C. 
My dear sir
For complete lines in the society of DAR will you kindly send me the pension records of the following men: Benjamin Curtiss a Conn. Revd Soldier residing in New York State (supposedly Camden N York in 1818 later 
Amos Mix Conn. Revd soldier-- place of residence not known 
These records however meger would be greatly appreciated and I thank you greatly in advance 
Respectfully 
(Mrs) E E Hendley 
Camden N York 
Feb 19th 1904 
[stamp] U.S. PENSION OFFICE FEB 23 1904
Page 62

ALBERT MORSE. 
DEALER IN 
Lumber, Doors, Sash, Blinds, Lath, 
BUILDING PAPER, ETC., ETC. 
Cleveland, N.Y. Dec 11 1905 
Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington D.C. 
Sir Inclosed reply of Dec.8 to my inquiry of Nov 17 also inclosed, received and noted. In my first inquiry mentioned a later term of service, have discovered since that said service was in Col Sheldon's light dragoons, believe in sixth troop but am not certain as to troop, this term of enlistment was for three years, believe the enlistment was Mar 6 1777 but am not sure of this said service must have been that from which he obtained a pension on, for from old document it is said he had pension which may be found on papers H 47272. Please send all facts you can from said papers concerning him, date and place of birth, full statement of service date of enlistment & discharge, date and place of death, name of wife and any other
Page 63

ALBERT MORSE. 
DEALER IN 
Lumber, Doors, Sash, Blinds, Lath, 
BUILDING PAPER, ETC., ETC. 
Cleveland, N.Y. 
relatives mentioned and certain this Benjamin Curtiss had a pension on New York rolls.
Very truly 
Harry A Morse 


[stamp] U.S. PENSION OFFICE DEC 13 1905