Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 25344, for Samuel Otterson, South Carolina
Page 1

(8-1776)

Service
S.C.

Otterson, Samuel

Number
S. 25344, Ins File No.
and S.32424

Contents
(Claims placed together April 3, 1936)
MH.F.

This envelope Includes
Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
H.J.
Page 2

Treasury Department,
Second Comptroller's Office

September 28th, 1841

Sir:

Under the act of the 6th of April, 1838, entitled 
"An act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury of the United States," Eight of ten children of Samuel Otterson, deceased a Pensioner of on the Roll of the Tuscaloosa, AL Agency, at the rate of Five hundred & 53 Dollars and 82 cents per annum, under the law of the 7th June 1832, have been paid the balance due them at this Department, from the 4th of March 1831 to the 11th September 1837.

Respectfully yours,
Albion K. Parris
Comptroller

To the Commissioner of Pensions,
Present
Page 3

13346
Alabama
Feb 28th 18 (illegible)
Samuel Otterson of Green County in the state of Alabama who was Lieutenant & Captain in the command by Captain ____of the regiment command by Colonel Brandon in the S. Carolina line for 2 years.

Captain Infantry 1.10-26.66
Captain Cavalry 1.6.5-456.16
Lieutenant Cavalry 3.18- 60.00
Lieutenant Infantry 2.27-13
$553.24

Inscribed on the Roll of Alabama at the rate of 553 Dollars 82 cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of march, 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 28 day of February 1838 and sent to Alex Ray Esq. Baltimore MD
Arrears to the 4th of September 1837
Semi-annual allowance ending 4 March 1858
$276.91.

{Revolutionary Claim,}
{Act June 7, 1832}
Recorded by William Allison, Clerk
Book E 7 Vol. 8 Page 104

Per Agent A. Ray
Dead
to A. Ray 7 April 1840 to 3rd and Aug. 17, 1841 do to fame Aug. 20 1841

Paid at the Treasury and the act of the 6 April 1888. from 4 March 1831 to 11 Sept. 1837. Agent notified 12th act 1841.
II Deads.
A.S. Wallace
Nov 6/54
Page 4

Treasury Department
Second Comptroller's Office
January 20th, 1842.

Sir:

Under the date of the 6th of April, 1838, entitled
"An act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury of the United States, " One of ten children of Samuel Otterson, deceased invalid Pensioner on the Roll of the Tuscaloosa Agency, at the rate of eight dollars -cents per month & under the law of the 7th June 1832, has been paid the balance due at this Department, from the 4th of March 1831, to the 11th September 1837.

Respectfully yours,
Albion K. Parris
Comptroller

To the Commissioner of Pensions,
Present
Page 5

Know all men by these presents that we James Otterson, Thomas G. Otterson, Rebbecca Wright, Mary Walker, Syntha Mays, Ruth Merson, Sidney Savage and Nancy Wolstenholme of Greene county State of Alabama sons and daughters of Samuel Otterson who was a Revolutionary Pensionary of the United States under the Act of 7th June 1832 do hereby constitute and appoint Alexander May our true and lawful attorney for us and in our name to receive from the Agent of the United States for paying pensions in city of Washington District of Columbia the balance of said pension form the 4th day of March 1831 to the eleventh day of September 1837 being the day of his death Witness our hands and seals this eleventh day of June 1841. Sealed and delivered in the presence of Thomas Wolstenholme, John Hall
James Otterson [seal]
Thomas Otterson [seal]
Ruth Otterson [seal]
Rebecca Wright [seal]
Cynthia Mayes [seal]
Mary Walker [seal]
Sydney Savage [seal]
Nancy Wolstenholme [seal]

State of Alabama
Greene County } S.S.

Be it known that on the eleventh day of June 1841 before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said county personally appeared James Otterson, Thomas G. Otterson, Rebecca Wright, Mary Walker, Synthia Mays, Ruth Otterson, Sidney Savage and Nancy Wolstenholme above named and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be their act and deed. In testimony whereof I  have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
John Hall J.Peace
The state of Alabama 
Greene County}
I Anthony R. Davis clerk of the County Court of said County
Page 6

State of Alabama
County of Greene} S.S.

I Anthony R. Davis, Clerk of the Court of Green County holden at Eutaw in and for Greene County do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said court that Samuel Otterson was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of five hundred and fifty three dollars and eighty two cents per year under the Act 7th June 1832 was a resident of the County of Greene in the State of Alabama and died in County of Greene and State of Alabama in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven on the eleventh day of September and that he left Children whose names are James Otterson, Thomas G. Otterson, Samuel Otterson, Rebecca Wright, Ruth  Otterson, Mary Walker, Cythia Mays, Sidney Saveage, Nancy Wolstenholme and Martha Johnson and that Samuel Otterson lives now in the state of South Carolina District of Spartanburg and that Martha Johnson lives in Nashoba County State of Mississippi and that there is no other living. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Eutaw this 14th day of June 1841. 
Attest A. R. Davis Clerk
Personally appeared before the Comptroller Auditor of the Treasury Alexander Ray the attorney named in the foregoing power of attorney who being duly sworn declares that the said power was not given to (remaining page cut off and illegible)
Page 7

State of Alabama
Greene County}

Be it known that before me John Hall a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid personally appeared James Otterson, Thomas G. Otterson, Rebbecca Wright, Ruth Otterson, Synthia Mays, Mary Walker, Sidney Savage, and Nancy Wolstenholme and made oath in due form of law that they are sons and daughters of Samuel Otterson the identical person who was a pensioner and is now dead and to whom a certificate of pension was issued of which the following is a true copy
War Department
Revolutionary Claim
I certify that in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June 1832 Samuel Otterson of Alabama who was a Captain & Lieutenant of Cavalry and Infantry in the Revolutionary war is entitled to receive five hundred & fifty three dollars and eighty two cents per annum during his natural life commencing on the 4th of March 1831 and payable semi-annually on the 4th of March and 4th of September in every year.

Given at the War Office of the Untied States this 28th day of February on thousand eight hundred and thirty eight.
J.R. Poinsett
Secretary of War
{Seal}

Examined and Countersigned
J.L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
ON the back of the foregoing certificate is the following payments to be made at Mobile by G.S. Gains Esq. Agent for paying pensions in the Agency of Alabama. Recorded in the Pension Office in Book E2 Vol. 8 Page 104 by William Allison, Clerk
Page 8

That the deceased pensioner resided in Greene County in the State of Alabama for the space of sixteen years before his death and that previous thereto he resided in Union District State of South Carolina sworn to and subscribed this eleventh day of June 1841 before me.

John Hall J. Peace
James Otterson {seal}
Thomas G. Otterson {seal}
Ruth Otterson {seal}
Rebecca Wright {Seal}
Cynthia Mays {seal}
Mary Walker {seal}
Sidney Savage {seal}
Nancy Wolstenholme {seal}

The State of Alabama
Greene County

I Anthony R. Davis, Clerk of the County Court of said County do hereby certify that John Hall whose name is affixed above in his office at Capa City as a justice of the peace now is and was at the time the same as date an acting Justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid elected commissioned and qualified according to law that all his acts as such Justice and entitled to full faith the above signature purporting to be his genuine.
Given under my hand and seal of office at Eutaw this 16th day of June A.D. 1841
Attest. A.R. Davis Clerk
Page 9

For 50

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 10

State of Mississippi
Neshoba County

Know all men by these presents that I Martha Johnson of the county of Neshoba and State of Mississippi daughter of Samuel Otterson who was an invalid Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States do hereby constitute and appoint Alexander Ray my true and lawful attorney for me and in any name to receive from the Agent of the United States for paying pensions in the city of Washington District of Columbia the balance of said pension from the 4th day of March 1831 to the eleventh day of September 1837 being the day of his death witness my hand and seal this 7th day of December 1841. Seated and delivered in presence of 
H.E. Simmons
Martha Johnson {seal}

State of Mississippi
Neshoba County
Be it known that on the 7th day of December 1841 before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid personally appeared Martha Johnson above name and acknowledged the foregoing power of Attorney to be her act and deed in testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
Bryant Merchant J. Peace.
Page 11

Personally appeared before the subscriber B. Andrew of the Treasury Alexander Ray attorney within named who being duly sworn doth depose that the said power was not given to him by reason of any sale transfer or mortgage or pension therein although to be received by him.
Sworn to before Peter Haines B. Andrew before me this 22nd day of January 1842
Alex Ray
Attend in fact

The state of Mississippi
Neshoba County

I Leland P. Poole clerk of the Probate Court in and for the County of Neshoba and state aforesaid do hereby certify that Bryant Merchant whose name is signed to the foregoing instrument of writing is a regular acting Justice of the peace in and for the county and state aforesaid and that full faith and credit ought to be paid to his acts as such in all and veracity given under my hand and seal of office at Philadelphia (illegible) the 7th day December A.D. 1841.
Leland P. Poole
Page 12

Personally appeared before the subscriber B. Andrew of the Treasury Alexander Ray attorney within named who being duly sworn doth depose that the said power was not given to him by reason of any sale transfer or mortgage or pension therein although to be received by him.
Sworn to before Peter Haines B. Andrew before me this 22nd day of January 1842
Alex Ray
Attend in fact

The state of Mississippi
Neshoba County

I Leland P. Poole clerk of the Probate Court in and for the County of Neshoba and state aforesaid do hereby certify that Bryant Merchant whose name is signed to the foregoing instrument of writing is a regular acting Justice of the peace in and for the county and state aforesaid and that full faith and credit ought to be paid to his acts as such in all and veracity given under my hand and seal of office at Philadelphia (illegible) the 7th day December A.D. 1841.
Leland P. Poole
Page 13

State of Mississippi
Neshoba County

Be it known that before me Bryant Merchant a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid personally appeared Marthara Johnson and made oath in due form of law that she is a daughter of Samuel Otterson the identical person who was a pensioner and is now dead and to whom a certificate of pension was issued of which the following is a true copy.

War Department

I certify that in conformity with an act of congress of the Bond of March 1809 entitled an Act concerning invalid pensioners Samuel Otterson was placed on the pension list of the United States and Roll of the South Carolina Agency at the rate of eight dollars per  month to commence on the sixth day of October one thousand eight hundred and eight.
Given at the war office of the United states 23rd day of December 1811.
W. Eustis
{seal}

That the deceased pensioner resided in Greene County in the State of Alabama for the space of sixteen years before his death and that previous thereto he resided in Union District State of South Carolina sworn to and subscribed this 7th day of December 1841.
before me
Bryant Merchant J. Peace
Marthara Johnson
Page 14

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 15

War Department

I certify that in conformity with an Act of Congress of the 3rd of March 1800, entitled " An Act concerning invalid pensioners", Samuel Otterson was placed on the Pension List of the United States and Roll of the South Carolina Agency at the rate of eight dollars per month to commence on the sixth day of October one thousand eight hundred and eight.

Given at the War Office of the United States, this 23rd day of December 1811.

W. Eustis

W.B. The Agent for the payment of invalid pensioners of the United States at Charleston So. Carolina was advised of this pension being inscribed on the Roll of the S. Carolina Agency and was directed to pay him on application so long since is the 8th of April 1809.
Page 16

13.346
Samuel Otterson
Alabama

Admitted 9 months
Major1 year and 3 months as Captain

225
240
60
525

225
240
60
525

26.6 9
24/36.00/22
48
60
48
120
120

J.C. Snedicas
Erie Green Co.
Alabama
Page 17

War Department
Pension Office
183

Sir:

The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing the papers with the following rules and the subjoined notes your will readily perceive that objections exits, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will show what is necessary to be done. These points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, ( thus: }). You will when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.

A Statement showing the service of Samuel Otterson.

Period when the service was rendered

Duration of the claimant's service
Years: 2
Months: 3,9,9
Days: 7, 23

Rank of the Claimant
Private
Lieutenant
Captain
Major

Names and rank of the Field Officers under whom he served.

Age at present and place of abode when he entered the service.

78 years

Proof by which the declaration is supported.

I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J.L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 18

 2

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832

The following regulations have been adopted:
The law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," " State Troops." Militia", and "Volunteers," all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c. Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
1. The Regular Troops
2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.
3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.
4. Indian Spies.

As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will, in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a court of record of the county where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.

Declaration,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of
County of } S.S.

On this ___day of ___ personally appeared 9a) before___ A.B. a resident (b) of ___in the county of___ and State, Territory or District of ___aged (c)___ years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d)___, with ___ and served in the ___(e) regiment of the ___ line, under the following named officers:
[Here act forth the names and rank of the field and company officers; the time he left the service; ( and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and state in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any in which he was engaged,  and the country through which he marched. This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, & c.]

He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in and State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of____
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid. A.B.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I _____of the Court of ________
do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of _____for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this ___ day of ___&c. 

If, on examination of proper record, the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers, or Militia. except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A.B., a Clergyman, residing in the ____and C.D. residing (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with ____, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declarations; that we believe him to be _____ years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that is appears to them that A.B. and that C.D. who has also signed the same is a resident in the ____and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.

I _________Clerk of the Court of _______do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of ______for a pension.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this ___day of ___&c.

Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. this is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have tendency to throw light upon the transaction.
If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of this claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. Avery full account of the services of each person
Page 19

3.

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can e expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the county in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.

The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
1. Where and in what year were you born?
2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?
4. How were you called into service; where you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.
G {To a Soldier} Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it?
{To an Officer} Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your service as a soldier of the Revolution.
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons-one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.
The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to very particular in the inquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the application cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person isa Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
______________________________________________________________________________
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration is the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer of soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. IN a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A.B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades: For ______ year________ months, and _________days, I served as a ______ For ______ months and _______days, I served as a _______: and for such service I claim a pension."

It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. the use of the phrase about three or four months, is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. If must in every case be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or place where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] the law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g]The opinion o the court is always required.
[h] the Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.

Mode of authenticating papers.

In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any aper from being improperly attached to the certificate.

Proof of Service.

[j] In case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oath must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
>The notes from [a] in [c] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[k] The traditionary evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[l] if a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.
Page 20

May Samuel Otterson application
Declaration of May Samuel Otterson in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress papered June 7th 1832.

The State of Alabama
County of Greene}S.S.

On this 20th day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & thirty two personally appeared in open court before honorable Crenshaw the Judge of the Circuit court of Greene county & State of Alabama now sitting Samuel Otterson a resident of the county of Greene & State of Alabama of the age of seventy eight years since the first day of April last part who being first duly worn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7, 1832 that he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated (viz) He received commission of first lieutenant in Captain Daniel Makee's company in June 1776 under the hand seal of his excellence John Rutledge then Governor commander in Chief of the Colony of South Carolina which said commission he now hath but it is somewhat that the day of the month cannot be ascertained said commission was countersigned by his excellency's command William Nisbett Secretary he states that under said Captain Mackee as 1st Lieutenant he went to an expedition against the Cherokee Nation of Indian the regiment to which his company belonged was commanded by Colonel John Thomas & that regiment a regiment commanded by Colonel Neille left Prince's fort as he recollects sometime in July or August after the date of his commission 1776 for service on the river Keowee or Seneca after passing several Indian towns viz- Echoee & Coweeshee & Toxaway which we burnt & demolished and our arrival at Keowee one met with General Williamson's Brigade to which our regiment belonged who commanded in person we lay there sometime & Williamson with some 6 or 700 hundred of his men had an engagement called the ring fight in which the deponent was not
Page 21

2.
( S. Otterson's Application)

From Keowee we moved down the river to Senica on the Sweet River & remained there some time preparing to take a town to the middle settlements valleys when we arrived to the middle settlements we lay all night in sight of the North Carolina arriving on the next morning we left for the Valley ( of the Tennessee river) & after we had got about two miles from where we encamped & light the North Carolina arriving we were attacked by the Indians & had a severe engagement in which this applicant was many were killed on both sides but the Indians were defeated or dispersed from thence we watched to the valley Towns on the Tennessee River destroyed them & were not by a detachment from the North Carolina arriving from thence one marched to an Indian Town called Twigloo on the Twigloo River where we stayed 2 or 3 days & marched thence back to Seneca after destroying the town of Twigloo & there were discharged the whole time we were out was about 14 weeks. During the Year 1777 this applicant does not recollect certainly to have been in the service in 1778 as well as he recollects he was stationed at Story's fort one month under the commission aforesaid with a small horse he does not recollect whether any his officer commanded in the fort at the time I was under the command & control of the same General & regimental officers as well as he recollects from this time until 1779 he was signed portion of his time engaged in commanding scouting parties against the Torys during these scouts Captain Mackee was officer with whom citizen & the command of his company served on me & I was frequently joined by Captain Gavin Gordon & after the division of Colonel Thomas regiment which was as well as I recollect in the latter part of the year 1778 or early 1779 I was frequently  under Colonel Thomas Branden to whose regiment I then belonged in scouting parties during one of these scouting parties we intercepted & took 20 or upwards Torys who were on there way to St. Augustine to join the British Army then we took to General Williamson company on Savanna River opposite to Augustine & he sent them to the jail at Ninety-Six
Page 22

3.
(S. Otterson's application)

Sometime after I believe in the fall or winter of 1779 I was ordered out to Charleston but was stationed for two months & ten days at the ten mile branch within ten miles of Charleston under the command of Colonel James Stein the lieutenant Colonel of the Regiment commanded at this time by Colonel Brandon to which since the division aforesaid I belonged in February 1780 Captain Mackee resigned & on the 8th February 1780 received the commission of Captain of a company of foot in Spartan Regiment of militia commanded by Colonel Thomas Brandon of the 2nd Division which company ran I now have bearing the date aforesaid signed by John Rutledge Governor & commander in chief as aforesaid & countersigned by his excellency command John Huges secretary in 1780 this applicant with the exception of scouting parties does not recollect to have been in regular & constant service until after the Capture of Charleston some time in May 1780 after which the Whigs who would not take protection under the British both from Georgia & South Carolina took refuge in North Carolina where we (illegible) on the river Catawba & elected Thomas Sumpter our General this he thinks was in July from this circumstance (viz) On the day after the election we marched towards the house of a celebrated Tory by the name of Ramson for the purpose of defeating some Tories who had encamped at Rawson's mill but before we arrived the militia from Rowan North Carolina had defeated the Tories and we turned our horses into a large field of oats belonging to Rawson & the oats were just ripening from thence we crossed Catawba & went down into the old Catawba nation of Indians & encamped some days thence we crossed the Catawba &  went to the British Station at Rocky Mount & about the 28th July 1780 made an unsuccessful attempt to take the British & Tories from thence we retreated across the Catawba & encamped at a branch Clem's Branch & about a week after our attempt on Rocky Mount we attacked the British & Tories at a place called hanging rock where I received
Page 23

4.  (S. Otterson's Application)

a round in my left arm which severed the bone between the elbow & shoulder about midway ( an account of which wound I have been a pensioner since 1809 first on the list. S. Carolina & then transferred to the pension list of Alabama from thence I was sent to Charlotte where I remained until I recovered of the wound which was October or November as well as I can recollect when I resumed my command as Captain under General Sumpter & was in the engagement at Blackstocks on Ridge River where General Sumpter received a wound from thence the army upon Sumpter crossed broad river & as well as I recollect divided out in scouting parties in one of which I got my arm rebroke in chase after a party of Tories under Brandon whom we killed with the exception of two whom we look prisoners my arm being Broken the last time by a fall of my horse soon got well the next engagement I was in was the siege of Buckhead under General Greene & the day before that place surrendered i was sent with my company under General Sumpter to Orangeburgh which latter place surrendered after the five of three field pieces on our part one of the enemy was kill & none of our detachment were kill not wounded except one or two who were struck by dead balls without any injury the next engagement of any note that I was in was Ninety-Six at the siege under General Greene the militia at this place was commanded by Brigadier General Lord Randen came to reinforce the Garrison & General Greene raised the siege & retreated over Broad River turned by the British as far as Oconee this applicant states that he doesn't recollect having been in any engagement of note after this period that he continued in the service until peace as decided which was regularly until some time after he was promoted to the office of Major which was the 5th day of September 1782 as appears from his commission bearing that date signed by John Matthews Governor of commander in chief of South Carolina which commission I now have in my possession
(continued at page 5)
Page 24

5. ( S. Otterson's application continued from page 4)

This applicant states that he omitted to name that he the regiment commanded Brandon to which he belonged was under the command of Col. Morgan at the Battle of the Cowpens but that he with several others about thirty were sent out as spies some days before the engagement set the Cowpens & from some cause did not arrive until the Battle was over but in his attempt with the party under his command to regain Morgan's army he learned the defeat & retreat of Tarleton & his forces pursued about a hundred of them in their retreat until night at which period all of his men had fallen off by their horses giving out except ten men where we overtook the enemy kill one took twenty two white prisoners & twenty seven negros sixty head of horses 14 sands & 14 braces of pistols amongst the white prisoners was an officer with the rank of Captain whose name he does not now recollect shortly after we had taken them the balance of our party met us and assisted in taking them back in our return with them we learned that General Morgan & General Greene were with the prisoners taking at the Cowpens & we pursued them a distance of something upwards of a hundred miles before we overtook them to deliver over the prisoners in assurance to various questions propounded by the court this applicant answers that he was born in the province or colony of South Carolina in a County called at that time Bartly or Barkley as well as he now recollects since the change in the government it is called Union District & state of South Carolina he was born on the 1st day of April 1754 & resided on the farm of his nativity on Tiger river until 1824 when he removed to Greene County in the State of Alabama where he settled a place near the head of Trundles creek being a branch of the d Lornhighbe river where he has resided ever since & now resides he has record evidence of his age that is he copied the time of his birth from his fathers Bible into his own this was done after the Blanks left in his family Bible was filled up.
Page 25

6.   ( S. Otterson's application)

from the commencement to the end of the war I was a volunteer always except when disabled by wounds the small pox ready to march & execute any orders given to me from my superior officers the preceding statement contains the names of some of the officers who commanded where served some of the regiments that he recollects & some of the General circumstances of his service the commissions he received & the names of the persons who signed them is stated above & they are all now on the  clerks table here in open court that the commission as 1st Lieutenant's so initialed that the day of the month & some few other words are lost he believes all in his neighborhood know he has been a pensioner for a long time & he believes they all suppose he was a revolutionary soldier & officer Henry Stony & Joseph Hughes knew that he was in the service & an officer commanding & they both served under or less with him each of them now live within seven or eight miles of him he hereby relinquishes   every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present he declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state except the state of South Carolina, the state of Alabama to which it was transferred from South Carolina.
Sworn to & subscribed in Open Court the 20th day of September 1832.
Attest James  Yates
Henry Stony being duly sworn saith that he has been acquainted with Samuel Otterson whose name appears to the above statement ever since he can recollect any thing distinctly he knew him well before & during the revolutionary war states that he knew that he commanded as a Lieutenant in Captain Mackee's Company & that after his resignation S. Otterson commanded as a Captain & that about or a short time before the close of the war he acted as Major that and Samuel Otterson commanded a fort at his this affidavits fathers called Stony's Fort for a short time & that he this affidavit was with said Otterson under General Sumpter at Blackstock's on tiger river the Battle & saw him the Otterson in the
Page 26

7. ( S. Otterson's application)

heat of the Battle & within a few paces of General Sumpter oat the time the General received his wound was not recollect of being with him in any other engagement to he well recollects being with him at the ten mile branch in ten miles of Charleston for two months & ten days in the service that he was with him at Ransons stated in his stated in his statement above Sworn to and subscribed in open court the 20th day of September 1832. Attest James Yates, Clerk.

Joseph Hughes being also duly sworn in open court deposeth that he was with Samuel Otterson whose name appears to the above statement during a great portion of the war called the revolutionary war & was acquainted with him long before & ever since said war he states that he was with him in nearly all the battles name in his statement & in some skirmishes which said Otterson did not think necessary to mention in one of which a single shot cut a lock from head of this affidavit slight cut the chin of said affidavit * rendered the cheek making a slight dent said Otterson in the engagement with him & in the balnce of that expedition In the service after mile creek 10 miles from Charleston & after the defeat of Charleston this deponent knows said Otterson was almost all the time in the service he saw him in the Battle at Rocky Mount where the fight continued nearly all day & at the battle at the  Hanging Rock he saw said Otterson bone wounded from the field & was with him when his arm was rebroke this deponent was present when said Otterson delivered the 22 English prisoners to General Pickens that he was not at the fight in which they  were taken this affidavit  believes all the statements of S. Otterson to be true he has frequently heard his father  a cousin say they were with said Otterson when they took the 22 English prisoners before mentioned he further saith that said Otterson commanded as an officer all the time he was in
Page 27

the service first as a Lieutenant & then as Captain & afterwards as Major.
Sworn to and subscribed in Open Court the 20th day of September 1832
Joseph Hughes
Attest James Yates, Clerk

State of Alabama
Greene County

We Robert W. B. Kennedy, a clergyman, residing in the county aforesaid & on the veracity of Major Samuel Otterson & Isaac C. Tredion residing also in the aforesaid county & town of Erie hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Major Samuel Otterson who has subscribed & sworn to the above declaration that we believe him to be 78 years of age, that he is reputed & believed in the neighborhood were he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution & that we concur in that opinion.
Robert W. B Kennedy
Sworn to and subscribed in the open court the day & year aforesaid.
Attest James Yates Clerk.

And the said court do herby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states & the court further certifies that it appears to them that Robert W.B. Kennedy who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the county of Greene and that Isaac C. Tredion who has also signed the same is a resident in the county of Greene is a credible person & that their statement is entitled to credit And the court further certifies that it further appears that Henry Stoney & Joseph Hughes whose names appear to the preceding depositions residents, the said Hughes of Pickens County & the said Stony of Greene County are credible persons & that their depositions are entitled to credit
Madison Crenshaw
Judge presiding
Page 28

Samuel Otterson
Alabama
7 June 32
Audit
S.C. Ames
Page 29

State of North Carolina
Cleveland County

Know all men by these presents that I Samuel Otterson of the District of Spartanburg in the State of South Carolina by these present do ordain and appoint George C. Ames, my true and lawful agent and attorney to prosecute for me and in my name, any claim or claims which I may have in the pension office of the United States to which I may be entitled for the revolutionary services of any father, who lived in Union District South Carolina and afterwards removed to Green County Alabama and died 11th September 1832. To him the said George C. Ames I delegate all the authority necessary to the prosecution of said claims in as full and perfect manner as thought I was personally present.
Given under my hand and seal 
13th December A.D. 1854
Samuel Otterson
D. Frenchburg, J.P. (seal)
Page 30

North Carolina
Cleveland County

I Silas Williams Clerk of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions for Cleveland County do hereby certify that D. Frenchberger whose signature as witness to the within power of attorney is an acting Justice Justice of the peace in & for said county and was at the time of signing the same & his acts as such are entitled to full faith & credit. Witness Silas Williams Clerk of the court as aforesaid at office the 14th day of December A.D. 1854.
S. Williams Clerk

Samuel Otterson
Alabama
7 June 32
Audit

S.C. Ames
Page 31

32424

Revolutionary
Invalid

File No. 32,424
Samuel Otterson
Captain, Revolutionary War

Act: June 7, 32"
Index:-Vol. 2, Page 306
[arrangement of 1870]
Page 32

Revolution
25344
Invalid
File No. 25,344
Samuel Otterson
Captain, Major S.C.
Act: ___________
Index:-Vol. 2, Page 303
[arrangement of 1870]
Page 33

Washington 27 September 41
Alexander Ray
Received 27
A.C.
Page 34

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO

Pete Wayne Esq.
3rd Audit on 
Session Sept.
Page 35

Washington
September 27th, 1841


Sir

I enclose herewith a certificate in the case of Samuel Otterson late of Alabama showing the period of his death and that he left no widow the power of attorney form his heirs is now before your departments for the payment of the arrears of pension due up to the 11 September 1837.
I am very respectfully
your obedient servant
Alex Rey

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO

Pete Wayne Esq.
3rd Auditor Pay
Page 36

South-Carolina.
By his Excellency JOHN RUTLEDGE, Esquire,
in Chief of the said Colony:

To Samuel Otterson, gent

By Virtue of the Power and Authority in me vetted by the Constitution agreed to and resolved upon by the representatives of South-Carolina holden at Charles-Town on the twenty-sixth Day of March, in the One thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, I with the advice and confent special trust and confidence in our courage and good conduct commitment to the Liberties of America, have commissioned, constitute and appointed commission constitute and appoint you the said Samuel Otterson to be first Lieutenant of a company and regiment in South Carolina you are to lead train muster and execute according you are to follow and observe all such orders and instructions as you shall from or the commander in chief for the time being, or any other your superior and discipline of War, pursuant to the laws of this colony and resolution the said constitution. And all inferior officers and others belonging to the said and commanded to obey you as their Lieutenant.
By his excellency commend 
William Nisbett
This commission to continue but
Given under my hand and seal at Charles-Town
June in the year of our Lord One thousand

( Please note: paper is torn on right edge entire right side is missing)
Page 37

South Carolina
By his excellency John Mathers Esquire, Governor and Commander in Chief of the said State.

To Samuel Otterson, Esquire
I reasoning special trust and confidence in your courage and good conduct, and in your fidelity and attachment to the United States of America, have commissioned and appointed, and by these presents do commission and appoint you the said Samuel Otterson to be Major of the Regiment of Militia Commanded by Colonel Thomas Brandon which said regiment you are to lead, train muster, and exercise according to military discipline. And you are to follow and observe all such orders and instructions as you shall, from time to time, receive form me or the Commander in Chief for the time being, or any of your Superior Officers, according to the Rules and Discipline of War pursuant to the Laws of this State. And all inferior officers and others belonging to the said regiment are hereby required and commanded to obey you as their Major This commission to continue during pleasure.
Given under my Hand and Seal at Union bridge this fifth day of September A.D. 1782 and in the seventh year of the Independence of America.
Page 38

By his excellency John Rutledge Es. Governor and Commander in Chief of the said State:

To Samuel Otterson Esq.
I reposing special trust and confidence in your courage and good conduct, and in your fidelity and attachment to the Liberties of American, have commissioned constituted and appointed and by there presents do commission and appoint you the said Samuel Otterson to be Captain of a company or foot in Spartan regiment of Militia commanded by Colonel Thomas Brandon 2nd division which said company you are to lead, train muster and exercise, according to Military Discipline and you are to follow and observe all such orders and instructions as you shall form time to time receive from me or the commander in chief for the time being or any other your Superior Officers according to the Rules and Discipline of War, pursuant to the laws of this state and all inferior officers and others belonging to the said company are hereby required and commanded to obey you as their Captain.
this Commission to continue during pleasure.
Given under my Hand and Seal at Charlestown this 8 day of February in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and eighty and in the four year of American Independence.
By his Excellency's Command,
J. Hughes Secretary.
Page 39

See Letter Pension July 17 1835
Ice Letter to A. Ray June 1837

Alabama 13345
Samuel Otterson
of Green in the State of Alabama  who is Captain in the Company commanded by Colonel Brandon in the South Carolina line for 2 years 9 months Major 225.00
15 to 20 months Captain 300.00
$525.00

Inscribed on the Roll of Alabama at the rate of 525 Dollars 00 cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 2nd day of July 1833 and sent to Isaac C. Tredicon C.C. Erie G.C. Alabama 
Arrears to the 4th of March 1833, 1050.00
Semi-annual allowance ending 4 September 33 262.00
$1312.50
{Revolutionary claim}
 {Act June 7, 1832}
Recorded by William R. Palmer Clerk
Book E Vol. 8 Page 49
Page 40

Samuel Otterson Alabama
to what time and at what rate paid as an
Invalid!
Pension Office
Feb 28, 1838
paid to the 4th March 1832 at the rate of $8(illegible) to March J.H.
Page 41

Samuel Otterson, See letter to A. Ray 30 August 1837 to Jame Nov 14, 1837 see letter 28 Feb 1838 to Pension Agent A. Ray
Letter to A. Ray 7th April 1840 Do to 3rd Audit Aug. 17, 1841
Page 42

Samuel Otterson
See letter to A. Ray
August 30, 1837
do to Jamie 14 Nov. 1837
Page 43

Invalid
Samuel Otterson
Mobile Agency
Applies for a new certificate
Has not been paid since 4 March 1832 for war item two years
Respectfully referred to Mr. Edwards
R.B.
July 17 '35
Page 44

J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
Page 45

Letter 10 item: John McKee
15 April 1838
Mr. Otterson applied for the benefit of the act of June 7, 1832 and his paper was returned to him 26 March 1832 with the private objections and requiring his commissions which he states to have in his possession.

See letter June 5, 1837 to A. Ray
Paid at the Treasury under the act of the benefit of June 1838 to 8 of 10 children from 4 March 1832 to 11 September 1837.
Agent notified 12 October 1841
Paid as above to 1 of 10 children
28 February 1842.

From South Carolina 
To Alabama
Invalid
Samuel Otterson
Captain
in the army of the Militia wounded on the Roll of the South Carolina Agency at the rate of $8 per month.

The name of this pensioner was transferred from the South Carolina agency to that of Alabama 26 July 1824 to take effect from 4 March 1824.
Page 46

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 47

Personally appeared before the subscriber third auditor of the treasury Alexander Ray the attorney name in the annexed source of Attorney from the representation of Samuel Otterson who being duly sworn deposeth & saith that the said power was not given to him by reason of any sale transfer for a mortgage of the pension therein authorized to be reviewed by him.
Sworn & subscribed this 29th day of September 1840  before Peter Alexander and Treasury Department.
Alex Ray
Attorney in fact
Page 48

Springfield Alabama

James L. Edwards Esq. 
Commissioner of Pensions War Department
July 1837

Sir

On the 3rd March 1809 congress papered an act placing my name on the invalid pension roll at the rate of eight dollars per month which was discontinued upon my name being placed on the roll under act 7th June 1832 and I now apply through my Agent Mr. Alexander Ray to have my name placed again on the invalid pension for the time it has discontinued you will communicate with him 
sent.
Very respectfully
your obedient servant
Samuel (X-his mark) Otterson
Attest
R. G. Henderson
present
Page 49

Samuel Otterson
Alabama 7 June 1832
$553. 82 per  annum
57. 4th March 1837
J.H.

Samuel Otterson
Alabama-Invalid
per month

To What time last paid

Pension Office
17th August 1841.

Invalid pension at Mobile to 4th March 1832-Transfer to Tuscaloosa from 4 March 1839 $8 per month.
J.H.
Page 50

Treasury Department,
Second Comptroller's Office
September 28th, 1841

Sir:

Under the act of the 6th of April 1838, entitled "An act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury of the United States, Eight of ten children of Samuel Otterson deceased Invalid Pensioner on the Roll of the Tuscaloosa Alabama Agency, at the rate of Ninety-Six Dollars per annum have been paid at this Department, from the 4th of March 1832, to the 11th September 1837.
Respectfully yours,
Albion K. Parris
Comptroller

To the Commissioner of Pensions,
Present.
Page 51

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO

13346

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 52

525.00

War Department
Revolutionary Claim

I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June, 1832 Samuel Otterson of Alabama who was a Captain & Lieutenant of Cavalry and Infantry in the Revolutionary War. is entitled to receive five hundred & fifty three dollars and eighty two cents per annum during his natural life, commencing on the 4th of March, 1831, and payable semi-annually on the 4th of March, and 4th of September, in every year.

Given at the War Office of the United States this 28th day of February one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight
J. R. Poinsette
Secretary of War


(Wax Seal)
Examined and countersigned.}

J.L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 53

Ent.
No. 14.126

by

Samuel Otterson
( 1 of 10 children)
pension Tuscaloosa Roll.

$99.20
19 January 1842
19/20
Received January 22, 1842 of the thence audited of the Treasury Receipt No. 52 audit 20 Hist for ninety nine dollars & thirty cents in fall of the within account
$99.20

Alex Ray
Attorney in fact

146 que '38

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 54

To the United. States.
To Martha Johnson
1 of the 10 children of 
Samuel Otterson
Pensioner Tuscaloosa Roll
Act 7 June 1832 and an Invalid

For 1/10 of his pension under both of the above states reason for her at a final settlement vouchers filed herewith and settlements No. 13.272, and 13.274 $99.20
Treasury Department
3rd Audit Office
19 January 1842
Stated by Deslbyme

Comptroller's office
January 20th 1842
executed T. Purrington}
Page 55

Washington City
18 January '42
Alex Ray
Pensions Claim of one of heirs of Samuel Otterson
Received 18 January '42
Answered
Wagner Esq
Auditor
Treasury Dept.
M. Randall
Page 56

Peter Wagner Esq
3rd Auditor
Treasury Dept.

M. Randall
Final Payment Voucher Received
Page 57

Washington
June 18 1842

Sir,

I herewith enclose the power of attorney signed by Martha Johnson one of the ten heirs of the entitled Samuel Otterson of Alabama and who was during his life a pensioner on the Invalid Roll, and a revolutionary pensioner under act June 7, 1832 eight of 10 heirs have been paid the amount found the one.

I am yours 
respectfully your obedient servant
Alex Ray

Peter Wagner Esq
3rd Auditor
Page 58

State of Alabama Green County

On this twenty sixth day of February Eighteen Hundred and twenty four before me Salomon McAlsia a Justice of the Peace for said county personally appeared Samuel Otterson who on his oath disclosed that he is the same person who formally belonged to and commanded as a Captain in the regiment commanded by Colonel Thomas Brandon of the Militia of South Carolina acting in the public service in the dense of the United States in the Revolutionary War that his name was placed on the pension list of the United States and roll of the South Carolina Agency that he has lately moved from the last mentioned state, that he now resides in the state of Alabama when he intends to remain and wishes his pension there payable.
Sworn and subscribed to before me this 26th February 1824.
Samuel Otterson
Solomon McAlsa J.P.
Page 59

Yorkville, S.C.
30th October 1854

Honorable J.P. Waldo

By this I herewith enclose power of Attorney in claim of Captain Samuel Otterson of Spartanburg District S.C. deceased.
Captain Otterson's claim was filed under act of 7th June 1832 his heirs are entitled to an severance he drew a pension in his life time under the above act.
Please let me know what amount he drew annually.

Very truly your friend
A. S. Wallace
Page 60

Baltimore
August 7th 1837

Sir

I now send an application from Major Samuel Otterson of Alabama to be registered to his Invalid Pension with held or discontinued upon his taking it act 7 June 1832 Also a certificate of the surgeons in support of his claim, and the continuance of the disability.

Respectfully
your obedient servant
Alex Ray
for Major S. Otterson

J. L. Edwards, Esq
War Department
Page 61

Aug 26
Commissioner

James L. Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Washington City

Baltimore
Aug 25
M.D.
Page 62

Baltimore
To Mgr 1837

Sir

On the 10th wit I address to you two letters one in relation to the case of John J. Hays of Maryland the other in the case of Major Samuel Otterson of Alabama, to be restored to the invalid pension roll.

You did me the favor to address me two letters of the same important in the case of hays serving therefor that an in over intent memoriam may have been made that both cases were answered i take the liberty today that you have now favor me with a reply in the case of Major Samuel Otterson.

Your obedient servant,
Alex Ray

J. L. Edwards, Esq.
Page 63

War Department
Pension Office
August 30, 1837

Sir,

On reviewing the case of Samuel Otterson strong doubts have arisen whether he served the length of time for which his pension under the act of June 7, 1832 has been allowed. There is documentary evidence of service in S. Carolina now in resistance which we were not apprized of when the claim was admitted. Recourse will be had to that evidence before any further investigation can be had in his case. If he served so long as his declaration sets forth it will no doubt appear from the evidence above alluded to. When I hear from S. Carolina on the subject, I will write to you again.

I am respectfully
Your obedient servant
J. L. Edwards.

Alex Ray, Esq.
Baltimore
MD
Page 64

S. Otterson
Page 65



BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims, of which those
answered in the  negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of  
             Samuel Otterson                                                  which require

further proof or explanation.

I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides?  Yes

II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? Yes

III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any assigned for his not doing so?

IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served?Yes 

V. * Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled? ( Yes is changed to No with a check mark)  No

VI.  Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations?  Yes

VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832?  Yes

VIII. Has the Court given their opinion?  Yes

IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate?  Yes 

X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal?  Yes
Page 66

                                                                              2 

XI. Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolutionary service? Yes 

XII. If the clergyman's affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtaining it? --

XIII. If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one living witness, has he stated in his declaration that such proof cannot be had? 
                          has (illegible) 

XIV.+ If the applicant has produced a witness or witnesses as to his service, has the magistrate who administered the oath, certified that he, she, or they are persons of credibility?  yes
Has the official character and signature of the magistrate been certified by the proper officer under his seal of office? Yes

XV.  Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant's service? Yes

XVI. Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct? No.

XVII. Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily? And, if not, which of them is not so answered? All answered.

                                                          ________________________________
                                                                     EXPLANATORY NOTES. 

QUERE V. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:

" Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades; 
For _____year _____ months, and ____days,
I served as a_____ For_________mpnths   and ______days, 
I served as a __________; and for such service I claim a pension."
Page 67



                                                                                        3

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served
and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the
pensioner and the length of his service.  The use of the phrase about three or four months is too 
indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable.  Some persons who apply for pension merely state they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours; the names of the
officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must in every case be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embolied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either the field or  in garrison and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.

QUERE XIV. Proof of Service
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must
prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth their affidavits the time of the claimants entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged.  The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.

QUERE XVI.  Mode of authenticating papers. 

In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other paper authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape-or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass
under the seal of office of the certifying oflicer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly
attached to the certificate. 

(note) In every case where the clerk of the court, or other certifying officer, has no public seal of office, the certificate of a member of congress, proving the official character and signature of the
certifying officer, should accompany the papers.

(Hand written note:)
The regulations of the Department require that where these are (illegible) 
they should be transmitted with the papers of the applicant to the dept
Page 68

J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Free
Alex Ray Esq
Baltimore Maryland

A. Ray Esq
Page 69

November 12 1837

While writing pursuit me to ask if you have been any regime or care to be careful or your attention of Alabama you say you are entitled to this semi annual I am for it now to be return to the  invalid pension roll and he took it August 7 1829 please respond no later Garrison
Page 70

The state of Alabama
Israel Pickens, Governor of Said State
To All to whom these presents shall come:

Know Ye, That Solomon McAlsin now is, and has been since the third day of March eighteen hundred and twenty three a Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Greene in the state, duly commissioned according to law.

Therefore all due faith credit and authority are, and ought to be had and given, to all his acts as such.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the Seal of State to be affixed. Done at the Capitol in Cahawba, this Seventeenth da of April in the year of our Lord on thousand eight hundred and twenty four and of the Independence of the United States of America, the forty 8th.

By the Governor,
Israel Pickens
J. J. Pleasant Secretary of State
Page 71

Washington
August 2 1841

Sir

At the request of the second comptroller I enclose you the papers I received this morning from the 3rd Auditor.  He also requested me to ask the third auditor to return to you your letter relating to the objections you gave to the payment of the pensions. M. Wagner wishes you to call for its return.

I am very respectfully
your obedient servant
Alex Ray

James L .Edwards, Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 72

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 73

Pension Office
August 20th 1841

Sir,

From a conversation with the second comptroller I have determined to withdraw my objections to the payment of the pension in the case of Samuel Otterson deceased. I request that whatever may be found to be due maybe paid if you are satisfied with the enclosed vouchers and I also request that my letter of the 17th insure to you on this subject may be returned to me.

I am very respectfully
your obedient servant
J. L. Edwards

Final Payment Voucher received by GAO

Peter Wagner Esq
Third Auditor
Page 74

House of Reps
December 12th /53
Hon. John L Orr
Receipt December 12th/53

M. Randall
(claim)
Page 75

House of Reps
12th December 1835

Sir,

I enclose you the affidavit of Dr. Samul Otterson of Spartanburg District Loba who applies for arrears of pension due his father at the time of his decease.

Dr. Otterson is a gentleman of the highest character and respectability an ex member of the South Carolina Legislature and I place the most implicit credence in any state merit he may make. His identity not questioned.

Very respectfully
James L. Orr

Hon. R. J. Atkinson
3rd Auditor
Page 76

Peter Wagner Esq
3rd Auditor 
Treasury
Page 77

Washington 16 August 41
Alexander Ray
Received 14
and 19th

Respectfully in from to the commissioner of Pensions just a quick information to say 3rd auditors office August 16 & 18th

Peter Wagner Esq.
3rd Auditor
Treasury Department

J. W. Evans
Page 78

Washington
August 14 1841

Sir

You will receive herewith enclosed a revolutionary pension certificate opened in the name of Samuel Otterson on the 28th 1838. 
Before the certificate was received by the family Captain Otterson died, There is an invalid certificate also enclosed upon which arrears will be found to be done, and the necessary forms from upon are the ten heirs, for me to received the money as there attorney.

I am very respectfully your
obedient servant
Alex Ray

Peter Wagner Esq
3rd Auditor

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 79

Baltimore 
April 4, 1840

Sir

Enclosed you will receive two letters both addressed to the invites be pleased in reply to return them. The money in the case has not yet been drawn because o the heirs being many and remote to reason too the papers mere, I learn correctly drawn up.

I beg to be informed if an executor as well as an administration is not constituted as the legal representation, and therefore and the ones to draw the arrears. If so, any printed instructions on the point will be thankfully received, and written under any act of Congress the arrears, or amount, due on the remaining so long under pension at the Mobile Agency or in Washington.

I am very respectfully
your obedient servant
Alex Ray

J. L. Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions

Over
Page 80

I was under the impression in 1838 that the widow or children of a deceased pensioner were only authorized to draw the arrears of pension, and so informed the executor which has caused the delay.

Yours respectfully
Alex Ray
Page 81

Ent

No. 13.272
by
Samuel Otterson
8 of 10 children of pension Tuscaloosa Alabama
Act 7 June 1832
$369.52
2 September 1841
28
Received September 29th 1861 after his audit of the Treasury. Referred 9150 dated 28 June for three hundred & Sixty nine dollars & fifty two cents, billing in full of the within account
$369.52.
Alex Ray
Attest in fact

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 82

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO

9v the United States to 8 of the 10 children of Samuel Otterson pension Tuscaloosa Roll Act 7 June 1832.
For 8/10 of his pension from March 1831,to 11 September 1837. 6 192/368 years and rate $553.82 per annum after deducting the pension received by him from 4 March 1832 to 4 March 1837 at $525.80 per annum per voucher filed herewith $369.52 due on new certificate $3611.96
periods to him on old $3130.00
Due $461.96
8/10 due -369.52
now paid $92.38
Treasury Department
3rd Audit Office
27th September 1841
Stated by Joslybyne

Second Comptroller Office
Executed by J. L. Cathcart
27th September 1841

Due Samuel Otterson and Martha Johnson 
$46.19 each.
Page 83

Ent.
No. 13.274

by
Samuel Otterson
pension (Invalid)
Tuscaloosa Roll
( 8 of 10 Children)
$424.08

27 September 1841
28
Received September 29th 1841 of the Third auditor of the Treasury Required 9151 dated 28 June for Four Hundred & twenty four dollars & eight cents, in full of the within account.
$424.08

Alex Ray
Attorney in fact

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 84

To the United States

Do 8 of the 10 children of Samuel Otterson Invalid pensioner Tuscaloosa Roll
For 8/10 of his pension from 4 of March 1832 to 11 September 1837 the day of his death, 5 192/365 years at $8 per month pensioner filed herewith. $424.08

Treasury Department
3 Audit Office
27 September 1841
Stated by Jaslleyme

Second Comptroller Office
Executed by J. L. Cathcart
27th September 1841
(due Samuel Otterson M. Dorrison $53.01 each)
Page 85

No. 413

Samuel Otterson deceased
(one of 10 children of)

Tuscaloosa Alabama
Act 7 June 1832
(Invalid)
$99.20

Kept December 12, 1858

Registered No. 4212 dated 13th & sent to Treasury 14th December 1855
Act 6 April 38
Page 86

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 87

Statement
Treasury Department
Third Auditor's Office

The United States,

To one of the ten children of Samuel Otterson deceased. (Samuel Otterson)

Pensioner of the Tuscaloosa Alabama Agency per Act of Congress of 7 June 1832 & for Invalids. Dr. for his pension from 4 March 1837 including increase from 4 March 1831 to 11 September 1837 at $553.82 per annum $46.19 for his pension from 4 March 1832 to 11 September 1837 at $8.00 per month as an Invalid.
53.01
$99.20

Stated December 12, 1855
by Ed. L. Machen
Clerk

Treasury Department
Second Comptrollers Office

Examined December 13 1855
Joseph T. Adams Clerk
Page 88

The state of Alabama I Anthony R. Davis Clerk Greene County S.S. of the County & Orphans Courts of Greene County aforesaid do hereby certify that at a term of Orphans Court holden in and for said county at Eutaw on the 13th day of September A.D. 1841, satisfactory evidence was exhibited to said court that Samuel Otterson was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of five hundred and fifty three 82/100 dollars per annum for revolutionary services and at the rate of ninety six dollars per annum as an invalid pensioner was a resident of the county of Greene in the State of Alabama, and died in the county of Greene, in the State of Alabama in the year 1837 on the 11th day of September and he left no widow.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at the ourt house of Greene County at Eutaw this 16th day of September A.D. 1841
Attest
A.R. Davis Clerk
Page 89

Major Samuel Otterson
for application
Pension
Page 90

I James Yeates clerk of the circuit court of the county of Greene aforesaid do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings aforesaid court in the matter of the application of Samuel Otterson for a pension.

In testimony whereof I have pursuant to set my hand and seal of my said office this 20th day of September in the year 1832.
James Yeates Clerk.

The State of Alabama
Greene County}

Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in aforesaid county Samuel Otterson who being duly sworn deposeth & saith that by reason of old age and the consequent lapse of memory he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the period mentioned below and in the following grades for three months & seven days he served as a volunteer private soldier for nine months I served as a lieutenant for two years three months and twenty three days I served as a Captain & for nine months I served as a Major
Page 91

and for such service I claim a pension 
Sworn to & subscribed before me the 27th May 1830.
A. Kerman J. Peace
Samuel Otterson
Page 92

The State of Alabama, Greene County.
I, Isaac C. Snedecor, clerk of the County Court of the County of Greene aforesaid, do hereby certify that Horvel L. Kerrmon whose signature appears in attestation of the appended affidavit of Samuel Otterson who applies for a pension now is and at the time of his certifying was an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, duly elected, qualified, and commissioned, : and that due faith and credit are due, and ought to be given to all his acts as such, and that his said certificate is in due form of law his signature thereto is genuine.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of my said office to be affixed, the fifth day of June 1833 and of American Independence, the 57th year.

Attest,
I. c. Snedecor, Clerk.

the State of Alabama, Greene County.

I Thomas F. Moody, presiding Judge of the County Court, of said County, do hereby certify, that Isaac C. Snedecor, whose signature appears to the foregoing certificate, now is and was, at the time he signed the same, Clerk of the County Court of said County, and that his certificate is made in due form of law.
Given under my hand seal this 5th day of June 1833.
T. F. Moody
Judge of Said Court {Seal}


The State of Alabama, Greene County.
I, Isaac C. Snedecor, Clerk of the County Court of said County, do hereby certify, that Thomas F. Moody, whose signature appears to the above certificate, now is, and at the time of his signing the same,  was Judge of the County Court of said County, duly qualified and commissioned, and that due faith and credit are due to all his acts as such, and that his said certificate is in due form of acts & his signature thereto is genuine.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of my said office to be affixed, the fifth day of June 1883 and American Independence, the 57th year.
Attest,
I.C. Snedecor Clerk
Page 93

Hon. L. Cap
Secretary of War
War Department
Washington
Page 94

Erie
The 5th June 1833

Honorable Lewis Cap

Sir

I send you the enclosed application with arrears interest. I am agent for Major Otterson Colonel Hughes H. Stony & General Pettinger you will if you please send any documents to me to Erie as early as suits your convenience in notation to their applications.
Yours Respectfully
H. Fredricks.
Page 95

Springfield Alabama
June 27th 1839

Commissioner of Pensions
War Department

Dear Sir

You will procure by the enclosed affidavit and a copy of my certificate which answer in my apers and on which I have drawn all my payments except the last, has been lost I am therefore under the necessity of applying for a new certificate, which if granted you will please forward to me by mail at Springfield Alabama. I applied for my last payment but was unable to get it without a certificate.

Samuel Otterson
Page 96

Page 1

Power of Attorney-Revolutionary Pension Claims.
Know all Men by these Presents, That I,
hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint A. S. Wallace my true and lawful Agent and Attorney, to prosecute the claim of Samuel Otterson for any amount of Revolutionary Pension or Increase of Pension that may be due; and I hereby authorize my said Agent to examine all papers and documents in relation to said claim, on file and to receive the certificate which may be issued for said claim, and to appoint one or more substitutes under him for the purposes herein expressed; and to do all things that I might or could do were I personally present. Hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said Attorney and Agent shall lawfully do in the premises, and revoking all former powers.

Witness my hand and Seal this 8th day October A.D. 1853
Samuel Otterson
Signed and sealed in presence of 
William Walker

State of South Carolina
District of Spartenburg
On this eighth day of October A.D. 1853 before me, the subscriber a (illegible) for the district aforesaid, personally appeared Dr. Samuel Otterson and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be his act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned.
In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and seal of office at Spartanburg Court House the day and year aforesaid.
J.P. Tollison Clerk

In this blank, if the claimant be alive, he will insert his name and execute the power. If be dead, the widow if alive will insert her name, (stating the fact that she is his widow,) and execute the power. If both be dead, then any one of the children may insert his, or her, name, adding the fact that he or she is the son or daughter and execute the power. There be neither father, mother, child, or children, then there is no person entitled under  the acting rules of the Department, and the power of Attorney need not be executed.
Page 97

Page 2

Claim of
Act of

State of
County
Day of
Be it known, that on this ____day of ____ D.D. eighteen hundred and fifty ____, before the ____a resident of ____ in said County, and made on oath according to law that he is the identical ____ who executed the foregoing power of attorney, and that he is directly interested in said claim, and makes this affidavit to be filed with such additional evidence or arguments as said Agent may use in prosecuting said claim. Sworn to and subscribed, the da and year aforesaid, before J. Peace}

I, ____ Justice of the Peace, in and for said County do hereby certify that ___ who executed the foregoing paper is a respectable resident of this County, and is I believe, directly interested in said claim as therein set forth.
J. Peace

I, J. B. Tollison Clerk of the ___ Court in the district and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that ___before whom the foregoing papers were executed, was, at the date of the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly authorized by law to administer oaths; and the name thereunto subscriber is ____+ signature.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal, this ___ day of A.D. 185_
Clerk
Page 98

The State of Alabama
Greene County

This day personally appeared before me James M. Meriweather an acting Justice of the peace for county and state aforesaid. Samuel Otterson a Captain & Major in the Revolutionary War who being duly sworn deposeth and saith that he is the same identical Samuel Otterson mentioned in a pension certificate which was in his possession some time back and which has been mislaid or lost and that he has made diligent search for the same and cannot find it and that this application is made for a new certificate of which the following is one exact copy.

War Department
Revolutionary Claim

I certify that in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th of June 1833 Samuel Otterson of the State of Alabama who was a Captain & Major in the Army of the Revolution is entitled to receive five
Page 99

hundred and twenty five dollars per annum during his natural life commencing on the 4th day of March 1831 and payable semi-annually
on the 4th  of March & 4th of September in every year
Given at the War Office of the United States this Second day of July one thousand eight hundred & thirty three
(signed) John Robb
acting Secretary of War
Examined and countersigned
J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions

(Endorsement on certificate)

Payments to be made at Mobile Alabama & U.S. Br Bank agent for keeping pensions in the agency of Alabama
Recorded in the Pension Office in Book E Vol. 8 Page 49 by William R. Palmer Clerk
All of the foregoing facts on this
Page 100

day. Sworn to and subscribed before me this the 27th of June A.D. 1835

Attest J. Meriweather J.P.
Samuel (X-his mark) Otterson

The state of Alabama
Greene County}

I Isaac C. Snedecor Clerk of the county court of said county do hereby certify that James M. Meriweather before whom the above affidavit of Samuel Otterson was taken & subscribed & whose signature appears to the certificate in attestation of said affidavit now is and at the time of his cdertifying was a justice of the peace in aforesaid county of Greene duly elected qualified sanctioned & that due faith and credit are due & ought to be given to all his official acts as such & that the signature of ihm that said James M. Meriweather to said affidavit is genuine. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and official seal this 30 June 1835

Attest J. C. Snedecor Clerk
of the County Court
of Greene County
Page 101

The state of Alabama

I William B. Street Sole and Green County presiding Judge of the county court of Green county do hereby certify that Isaac C. Snedicor whose name is affixed to the above to the above certificate is now and was at the time of making the same clerk of the county court of Greene County aforesaid that full faith and audit are due to his official acts as such clerk and that his said certificate is in due form of law.

Given under my hand and seal this the 30th day of June A.D. 1835

W.B. Street [seal}
Judge of the county
Court of Greene County

The State of Alabama
Greene County}

I Isaac C. Snedcor clerk of the county court of said county do hereby certify that William B. Street whose signature appears to the above certificate now is & at the time of his certifying was Judge of the county court of said county duly qualified & commissioned & that due faith & credit are due to his acts as such & that his signature thereto is genuine.
Witness my hand & seal of office the 30 day of June 1833.

Attest J.C. Snedcor Clerk of said court
Page 102

Springfield Alabama
July 25th 1837

For 20
Alexander Ray
Baltimore MD

Washington City
D.C.
Aug 6
Page 103

State of Alabama
Greene County

July 21st 1837
It is hereby certified that Samuel Otterson a Major in the Regiment of the South Carolina Militia commanded by Colonel Thomas Brandon during the war of the revolution of the United States is rendered incapable of performing the duty of a soldier by reason of wounds inflicted while he was actually in the service aforesaid and in the line of his duty viz. during an engagement with the British Troops on the seventh day of August 1780 at the Battle of Hanging Rock by satisfactory evidence and accurate examination it appears that on the 7th day of August 1780 being engaged with the British troops at or near a place called Hanging Rock in the State of South Carolina he received a wound in the left arm about midway between the elbow and shoulder joint fracturing the Os humerus and splintering it in such a manner as to cause several pieces of the bone to come away during the curing of the part thereby rendering a total and permanent disability from obtaining his subsistence from manual labor given under our hands this 21st day of July 1837.
Zachary J. Meriweather surgeon
R. P. Henderson Surgeon

State of Alabama
Greene County

This day Zachary Meriweather and Rufus P. Henderson whose names are subscribed to the above certificate made oath before me a Justice of the Peace for the county aforesaid that the said certificate is true and I do hereby certify that the said Zachary Meriweather and Rufus Henderson are highly respectable in their profession as physicians and surgeons and that said certificate is entitled to full credit given under my hand and seal this 21st day of July 1837.
Thomas Wolstenholme J.P. {seal}
Page 104

State of Alabama
Greene County

I Isaac C. Snedcor Clerk of the county court of Greene County certify that Thomas Wolstenholme is a Magistrate as above and that foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine in testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of office and subscribed my name this 22nd day of July 1857.
I.C. Snedcor clerk
of the County Court
of Greene County Alabama
Page 105

State of Alabama
Greene County}

I Anthony R. Davis Clerk of the court of Greene County holden at Eutaw in and for said county do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said court that Samuel Otterson was an invalid pensioner of the United States at he rate eight dollars per month was a resident of the county of Greene in the state of Alabama and died in the county of Greene and state of Alabama in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven on the eleventh day of September that he left children whose names are James Otterson, Thomas C. Otterson, Cynthia Mays, Mary Walker, Sidney Savage, Nancy Wolstenholme and Martha Johnson and that Samuel Otterson now lives in the state of South Carolina & District of Spartanburg and that Martha Johnson lives in Nashoba County State of Mississippi and that there is no other now living.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Eutaw this 14th day of June 1841.
Attest A.R. Davis Clerk

Clerk of the county court of Greene County aforesaid Hall whose genuine signature appears to the aforesaid at the time of his signing the same an acting Judge aforesaid duly elected commissioned & qualified
Page 106

according to law that all his official acts as such justice are entitled to full faith & credit.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Eutaw this 14th day of June A.D. 1841
Attest A.R. Davis Clerk

The state of Alabama
Greene County

I Lydenham Moore sole presiding judge of the county court the county and state aforesaid do hereby certify that Anthony Davis whose genuine signature appears to the above certificate is now and was at the time of signing the same the clerk of the county court of Greene County & State of aforesaid duly elected commissioned and sworn that full faith and credit are due all his official acts as such that the foregoing attestation is in due form of law.

Given under my hand and private seal there being no seal of office at the court house at Eutaw this 15th June A.D. 1847
Lydenham Moore 
Judge {seal}

Final Payment Voucher
received from the GAO
Page 107

State of Alabama
Greene County

Be it know that before me John Hall a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid personally appeared James Otterson, Thomas C. Otterson, Rebecca Wright, Ruth Otterson, Cynthia Mays, Martha Walker, Sidney Savage and Nancy Wolstenholme and made oath in due form of law that they are sons & daughters of Samuel Otterson the identical person who was a pensioner and is now dead and to whom a certificate of pension was issued of which the following is a true copy.

War Department
I certify that in conformity with an act of Congress of the 3rd of march 1809 entitled an Act concerning invalid pensioners Samuel Otterson was placed on the pension list of the United States and Roll of the South Carolina Agency at the rate of eight dollars per month to commence on the sixth day of October one thousand eight hundred and eight.
Given at the War Office of the United States the 23rd day of December 1811.
H. Eustis {seal}

That the deceased pensioner resided in Greene county in the state of Alabama for the space of sixteen years before his death and that previous thereto he resided in Union District state of South Carolina.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this eleventh day of June 1841.

James Otterson {seal}
Thomas Otterson {seal}
Ruth Otterson {seal}
Rebecca Wright {seal}
Cynthia Mays {seal}
Martha Walker {seal}
Sidney Savage {seal}
Nancy Wolstenholme {seal}

John Hall J. Peace

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 108

Know all men by these presents that we James Otterson, Thomas C. Otterson, Rebecca Wright, Ruth Otterson, Cynthia Mays, Mary Walker, Sidney Savage, and Nancy Wolstenholme of the county of Greene and State of Alabama sons and daughters of Samuel Otterson who was an invalid revolutionary pensioner of the United States to hereby constitute and appoint Alexander Ray our true and lawful attorney for me and in my name to receive from the Agent of the United States for paying pensions in the city of Washington District of Columbia the balance of said pension form the 4th day of March 1831 to the eleventh day of September 1837 being the day of his death. Witness our hands and seals this eleventh day of June 1841.
Seal and delivered in presence of
Thomas Wolstenholme
John Hall

James Otterson  {seal}
Thomas Otterson {seal}
Ruth Otterson       {seal}
Rebecca Wright     {seal}
Cynthia Mays          {seal}
Martha Walker        {seal}
Sydney Savage        {seal}

State of Alabama
Greene County

Be it known that on the eleventh day of June 1841 before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said County personally appeared James Otterson, Thomas C. Otterson, Rebecca Wright, Ruth Otterson, Cynthia Mays, Mary Walker, Sidney Savage, and Nancy Wolstenholme above named and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be their act and deed. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
John Hall J.Peace

The State of Alabama
Greene County

I Anthony R. Davis Clerk do hereby certify that the above and foregoing certificate now  and was at the time an acting Justice of the peace in and for the county of Greene.
Page 109

Know all men by these presents that we James Otterson, Thomas C. Otterson, Rebecca Wright, Ruth Otterson, Cynthia Mays, Mary Walker, Sidney Savage and Nancy Wolstenholme of the county of Greene and State of Alabama sons and daughters of Samuel Otterson who was an invalid revolutionary pensioner of the United States do herby constitute and appoint Alexander Ray our true and lawful attorney for we and in my name to receive from the Agent of the United States for paying pensions in the City of Washington District of Columbia the balance of said pension form the 4th day of March 1831 to the eleventh day of September 1837 being the day of his death. Witness our hands and seals this eleventh day of June 1841.
Sealed and delivered in presence of 
Thomas Wolstenholme
John Hall

James Otterson {seal}
Thomas Otterson {seal}
Ruth Otterson {seal}
Rebecca Wright {seal}
Cynthia Mays {seal}
Mary Walker {seal}
Sidney Savage {seal}
Nancy Wolstenholme {seal}

State of Alabama
Greene County
Be it know that on the eleventh day of June 1841 before the subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for said county personally appeared James Otterson, Thomas Otterson, Rebecca Wright, Ruth Otterson, Cynthia Mays, Mary Walker, Sidney Savage and Nancy Wolstenholme above named and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
John Hall J. Peace

The State of Alabama
Greene County

I Anthony R. Davis C.Clerk of the County Court of Greene County aforesaid above and foregoing certificate now and was at the time of his signing the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for the county of Greene aforesaid duly elected, commissioned & qualified.

State of Alabama
Greene County

I Anthony R. Davis Clerk of the Court of Greene County holden at Eutaw in and for said County do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said court that Samuel Otterson was an invalid pensioner of the United States at the rate eight dollars per month was a resident of the county of Greene in the state of Alabama and died in the County of Greene and State of Alabama in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven on the eleventh day of September that he left children whose names are James Otterson, Thomas C. Otterson, Samuel Otterson, Rebecca Wright, Ruth Otterson, Cynthia Mays, Mary Walker, Sidney Savage, Nancy Wolstenholme and Martha Johnson and that Samuel Otterson now lives in the state of South Carolina & District of Spartanburg and that Martha Johnson lives in Nashoba County Mississippi and that there is no other now living.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Eutaw this 14th day of June 1841
Attest A.R. Davis Clerk
Page 110

do hereby certify that John Hall whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing certificate now is and was at the time of his signing the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for the county of Greene aforesaid duly elected commissioned and qualified that full faith and credit are due and should be given to all his official acts as such Justice.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Eutaw this 14th day of June A.D. 1841.
Attest A.R. Davis Clerk

The state of Alabama
Greene County
I Lydenham Moore sole presiding Judge of the county court of Greene County state aforesaid do hereby certify that Anthony R. Davis whose genuine signature appears to the above certificate is now and at the time of signing the same the Clerk duly elected & qualified that full faith & credit are due all his official acts as such and that the above attestation is an due form of law. Given under my hand & private seal (there being no seal of office) at Eutaw this 15th day of June A.D. 1841
Lydenham Moore {seal}
Judge
Page 111

The State of Alabama
Greene County

I Anthony R. Davis Clerk of the County Court of said county do hereby certify that Lyndenham Moore whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing certificate is sole presiding Judge of said county court duly commissioned and qualified that his acts as such judge are entitled to full faith and credit.
Given under my hand & seal of office at Eutaw this 16th day of June A.D. 1841
Attest A.R. Davis Clerk

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO

Him by reason of any sale transfer or mortgage of the pension therein authorized to be received by him.
September 29 1841
Lewis Habitbul
before Peter Hagman
3rd Audit Treasury Desk
Alex Ray
attest in fact
Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO
Page 112

The State of Alabama Greene County.
I Anthony R. Davis, Clerk of the County Court of said county, do hereby certify that Lydenham Moore whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing certificate is sole presiding Judge of said County Court, duly commissioned and qualified that his acts as such Judge are entitled to full faith and credit.
Given under my hand & seal of office at Eutaw this 16th day of June A.D. 1841.
Attest A.R. Davis, Clerk

Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO

Him by reason of any date, transfer on mortgage of the premises therein authorized to be received by him.
September 29 1841
Sworn & subscribed before Peter Hagman 
3rd Auditor Treasury Department

Alex Ray
Attest in fact
Final Payment Voucher
Received from the GAO
Page 113

{Postal Stamp as follows: Columbia SC SEP 14}

Hon. C.
Proof of service
Samuel Otterson

reference to Mr. Edwards and ordered that the manual certificate be issued.

Captain Infantry 1-10-26.66
Captain Cavalry 1.6.5-454.16
Lieutenant Cavalry 3.28-60-
Lieutenant Infantry 27- 13
2.00.00 $553.82
Page 114

September 19
Columbia SC SEP 14
Commissioner
Free
Proof of Service Samuel Otterson
Hon. J. L. Edwards
Washington D.C.
Page 115

The State of South Carolina

To Samuel Otterson Dv.

To 5 Days duty as Lieutenant of Horse from the 
(deduct less 2 days) 4 to the 6 April 1778 both days included as pay bill of Captain Daniel McKay & certified by Colonel Thomas Brandon 50-L12.10.0 & 6 days duty as Lieutenant of Infantry deduct less 25L premium the 30 April to the 5th of May 1778 both days included per pay bill of D of Captain D 50 in 15.00.0 to 7 days duty as Lieutenant of Rifle Do/30per premium the 1st February to the 7th February 1779 both days included per pay bill of D. & certificate for 8 55/19.50 to 8 days duty as Lieutenant of Infantry from D. 70/per premium the 8th to the 15th February 1779 both days included per pay bill of D. & certified per Title 45/18.00.00
To 23 Days duty as Lieutenant of Infantry from the 28th.
February to the 22nd March both days included to pay bill of D. & certified per D. 45/51.15.0 to 11 days duty as Lieutenant of Infantry form the 1 December 1779 to the 1st February 1780 both days included per pay bill of K. & certified per title @ 40/122.00.00 to 41 Days duty done as Captain of Foot from the 12 Mary 1780 to the 15th September 1782 per my own pay bill & certified per Colonel Thomas Brandon. @ 60/ 123.00.00
To 552 days duty done as Captain of Horse from the 12th of May 1780 to the 15th September 1782 per my own pay bill & certified by Colonel Thomas Brandon. @ 70/1932.00.0-L 2293.10.0 Sterling L 327.12.10 1/4.
Received 4th March 1786 from the commissions of the Treasury full satisfaction for the within account.
(signed) Samuel Otterson
Page 116

No. 3377
Lit. O}

Issued 19th July '86 to Mr. Samuel Otterson
L. 24.5.8 sterling moneys refunded when wounded for account audited No. 75 Principal L.24.5.8 Initial L. 1.14.0

Comptrollers Office
Columbia 13th September 1837

I certify the foregoing to be a true copy of the principal account of Samuel Otterson for services performed in the War of the Revolution also a copy of a memorandum of the margin of indent book X the original account for which said indent was issued is lost or mislaid.

John T. Seibels
for
William Laval
Comptroller General
Page 117

Comptrollers Office
Columbia 13 September 1837

Sir,

Agreeable to your favor of the 3rd October I herewith forward to you the arranged account of Samuel Otterson which is all that can be found in the archives of this office in relation to his Revolutionary service. The Fee ($5) you will pay to Colonel Franklin H. Emore a member from South Carolina.
Respectfully
I. Orr Secretary
John T. Seibels for
William Laval
Comptroller Treasury

Hon. J. L. Edwards
Page 118

State of Mississippi
Nashoba County}

Be it know that before me Bryant Merchant a Justice of the Peace in and for said county personally appeared Martha Johnson and made oath in due form of law that she is a daughter of Samuel Otterson the identical person who was a pensioner and is now dead and to whom a certificate of pension was issued of which the following is a true copy.

War Department
Revolutionary Claim

I certify that in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June 1832 Samuel Otterson of Alabama who was a Captain & Lieutenant of Cavalry and Infantry in the Revolutionary War is entitled to receive five hundred & fifty three dollars and eighty two cents per annum during his natural life commencing on the 4th of March 1831 and payable semi-annually on the 4th of March and 4th of September in every year.
Given at the War Office of the United States this 28th day of February one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight
{Seal}
Examined and countersigned
J.L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
J.R. Poinsett
Secretary of War

On the back of the foregoing certificate is the following payments to be made at Mobile by G.S. Gains Esq. Agent for paying pensions in the Agency of Alabama Recorded in the Pension Office in Book E2 Vol 8 page 104 by William S. Allison, Clerk
Page 119

That the deceased pensioner resided in Greene County in the State of Alabama for the space of sixteen years before his death and that previous thereto he resided in Union District state of South Carolina sworn to and subscribed this 7 day of December 1841
Before me.
Bryant Merchant J. Peace
Nathan Johnson

The State of Mississippi
Nashoba County}

I Logan P. Poole Clerk of the probate court in and for the county of Nashoba and state of Mississippi do certify that Bryant Merchant who name is signed to the foregoing instrument of writing is a regular acting Justice of the Peace in and for the county and state aforesaid and that full faith and credit ought to be paid to his acts as such in law and equity given under my hand and seal of office at Probate Office Mississippi this 7th day December A.D. 1841.
Logan R. Poole
Clerk of Probate
Page 120

Know all men by these presents that I Martha Johnson of Nashoba County state of Mississippi Daughter of Samuel Otterson who was a Revolutionary pensioner of the United States under the act of 7th June 1832 do hereby constitute and appoint Alexander Ray my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name to receive from the Agent of the United States for paying pensions in the city of Washington District of Columbia the balance of said pension from the 4th day of March 1831 to the eleventh day of September 1837 being the day of his death. Witness my hand and seal this 7 day of December 1841.
Seal and delivered issue Martha Johnson {seal}
Presence of H.E. Simmons

State of Mississippi
Nashoba County}

Be it know that on the 7 day of December 1841 before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said county personally appeared Martha Johnson above named and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be her act and deed in testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
Bryant Merchant J. Peace
Page 121

Personally appeared before the subscriber and of the necessary Alexander Ray the attorney within named who being duly sworn doth depose that the said power was not given him by reason of any sale, transfer or mortgage of the person therein authorized to be received by him.
Sworn to before
Peter Hagman 3rd Auditor
Treasury this 22nd day of January 1842
Alex Ray
Attest in fact
Page 122

Oath of Identity for the Widow or child of a Deceased Pensioner.

Columbia
Washington county }

Be it known, that before me, Paul Stevens a Justice of the Peace, in and for the county aforesaid, personally appeared Samuel Otterson and made oath in due form of law, that he is the son of Major Samuel Otterson the identical person who was a pensioner, and is now dead, and to whom a certificate of pension was issued, which has been surrendered in the office of the 3rd Auditor and is now in file.

That the deceased pensioner resident in Greene County in the State of Alabama for the space of Seventeen years before his death; and that previous thereto he resided in South Carolina.
Samuel Otterson
Sworn and subscribed this 12th day of December 1855 before me, Paul Stevens J.P.

Note-The above deposition must be signed by the deponent. Where the pension has been increased since the certificate has been given the magistrate will note the fact.

Power of Attorney for the Widow or Child of a Deceased Pensioner.

Know all men by these presents, that I, ____ of ___ in the county of ___ and State of ___ 
a) Pensioner of the United States, do hereby constitute and appoint my true and lawful Attorney, for me, and in my name, to receive from the Agent of the United States for paying pensions in ______ State of _______ the balance of said pension form the _____day of ____ 18 ___, to the _____day of ____ 18 ___, being the day of his death. Witness my hand and seal, this ______ day of ______ 18___.
Sealed and delivered
in presence of }
{seal}

Note-This affidavit must be signed by the Attorney.
(a) IN this blank insert the word Invalid, or Revolutionary, as the case may be.
Note.- Anu other officer duly authorized to administer oaths, may be substituted for a Justice of the Peace.
Page 123

2

State of
______county}S.S.

Be it known, That on the ____of ____18__ before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said county, personally appeared above named, and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney to be his (or her, as the case may be) act and deed. In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
J. Peace

State of _______
_______County}S.S.

Be it known, That on ______ day of ______ 18__ before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, personally appeared ______ the attorney named in the foregoing power of attorney and made oath that the same was not given him by reason of any sale, transfer, or mortgage of the pension, or arrears of pension therein authorized to be received by him.
Sworn and subscribed the day and year last above mentioned, before me.
_____ J.P.

Certificate of the Court as to the Death of a Pensioner

State of ______
County of _______ }S.S.

I, ________Clerk of the Court of _______ holden at ______ in and for ________ do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said court that _____ was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of _______ dollars per _____; was a resident of the County of _____ in the State of ____________ and died in the _______ in the state of _______ in the year ______ on the day of _____ that he left a widow, or no widow ( or child or children, as the case may be) whose name is (or are, as the case may be.)
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at _______ this _____ day of _______ in the year of our Lord 18 __

[Seal of Court]
Clerk of the _______

Final Payment Voucher 
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