Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R 11202, John Watson, S. C.
Page 1

(3-1776)
SERVICE
S.C.
Watson, John
Bethiah
NUMBER
R11202
CONTENTS
Page 2

State of Virginia, Pittsylvania County ss
I Langham Scruggs Clerk of the County Court of Pittsylvania County in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that John Watson was married to Bethiah Watson by Thomas Sparks on the thirtieth day of November one thousand seven hundred and eighty four as appears from the records of the said court.
As witness my hand and seal of office this 24" day of April 1854.
L. Scruggs Clk
Page 3

State of Mississippi County of Leake
On this 26 day of June One Thousand Eight Hundred and Fifty four before me, M U Joiner a Justice of the peace in and for said County and State, duly authorized by law to admininister oaths, personally appeared Berthea Watson the widow of John dcd. the identical person whose name is attached to the annexed Power of Attorney, and being duly questioned, acknowledged the same to be her free act and deed as specified. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed my name, the day and year last above mentioned.
M. U Joiner J.P.

State of Mississippi County of Leake
I, John A Hanson Clerk of the Probate Court, in and for the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that M U Joiner Esqr whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing affidavit, is, and was at the time of signing the same, an acting Justice the peace in and for the county and State aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn; that all his official acts as such, are entitled to full faith and credit; and that the aforesaid County Court is a Court of Record having general jurisdiction.
Given under my hand, and the seal of my Office at Carthage this 8th day of July A.D. 1854
John A Hanson
Clerk

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James T. Ellison judge of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that John A Hanson who signature & seal of office appear above is and was at the time of making the above certificate Clerk of said Court duly commissioned and qualified according to law that his said certificate is in due form of law and by the proper officer & as such entitled to full faith credit and authority. Given under my hand and seal this 10th day of July 1854.
Jas. T. Ellison {seal}
Probate Judge

[sideways] Mrs Berthia Watson
Page 4

Know all men, by these presents, That I Berthea Watson a resident of the county of Leake State of Mississippi do hereby select, ordain, constitute, and irrevocably appoint with power of substitution, John W. Stevens of Abingdon Virginia my true and lawful Agent and Attorney, for me and in my name, place and stead; to examine into enter, prosecute, file and defend, before the proper Department of Government, or other tribunal, any claim, or suit, in behalf, or in which I may be legally interested, by virtue of my claim for pension, in right of my dcd. Husband, John Watson, who was a soldier in the War of the Revolution in the State of South Carolina and 
Further empowering my said Agent and Attorney, or his substitute, to apply for and receive any Money, Bounty Land or Bounties, Pension Claim or Claims, or other Dues, of any kind whatsoever, that may be found to be due me for said pension
And further empowering my said Agent and Attorney, and authorizing him to receipt therefor, and give full and free acquittance thereof in his name, as my Agent and Attorney in fact, but all for my benefit and behoof. Hereby ratifying and confirming whatsoever my said Agent and Attorney may lawfully do, or cause to be done, as in these premises specified; and as though I were present personally and acting for myself Binding my heirs, legal representatives and assigns to comply with, and fully carry out and complete any obligation, contract, or agreement, that is, or may be made between me and my said Agent or Attorney, his legal representatives, heirs or assigns.
In virtue whereof I do hereunto affix my hand and seal, this 26 day of June 1854
Bethiah Watson {SEAL.} BW
Witness, {SEAL.}
R H M Fryer
George W Joiner
Signed, sealed and acknowledged in presence of List

[sideways] 2 witnesses
Page 5

Mrs B. Watson
widow of John Watson
---
Missi
---
July 7 1838.
Page 6

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
In the Probate Court December Term A D 1853
At a Term of said Court begun and held on the fourth Monday in December AD 1853 among other things the following Order was made.
Bethia Watson
vs
Pension Office
Declaration for Pension.
This cause coming on for hereing upon the Declaration and prooff submitted
It is ordered by the Court that the same be filed in this Court for Record and that a transcript thereof be made and certified according to law.
Page 7

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
Whereas it has been represented to me the undersigned Probate Judge of said County, the of which I am Judge being a Court of Records that Berthia Watson from age infirmities and the distance to the county seat and the season of the year is unable to attend in open court for the purpose of making her Declaration required by the Acts of Congress providing Pensions and bounty land in such case, Now therefore I do hereby authorize and empower Mason U Joiner or any other Justice of the Peace of said County at their convenience to call at the Residence in said County of said Berthia Watson for the purpose aforesaid of taking her declaration according to the Act of Congress in such case made and provided
Given under my hand and seal this 17th day of December 1853
Jas T Ellison {seal}
Probate Judge
Page 8

2
The Declaration of Mrs Bethiah Watson widow of John Walson a solder of the Revolution Respectfully showeth, Carolina Chester District State of Mississippi
County of Leake SS
 On this day personally appeared before the Worshipful court for said County now in sessions Mrs Bethia Watson resident of said County who in due and solemn form of law doth on her oath declare that she is the widow of John Watson who was a revolutionary soldier from the State of South Carolina Chester district that she was married to the said John Watson in the State of Virginia in the year 83 that she is now about eighty five years of age that the said John Watson served under Wade Hampton and was honorably discharged at the close of the Revolutionary war in 1780 to 1783, that her said husband died in the State of South Carolina in the year 1810 and having become entitled to pension for said service and not having applied for the same, and under the act of 1832 If living would have been entitled from 4th of March 1831 and if married prior to 1794 his widow would be entitled from the 4th of March 1836 she the said Bethia Watson widow of John Watson, Now prays that her name be inscribed on the Roll of Widows of Revolutionary soldiers drawing pension, and that pension in right of her said husband be granted to her from the 4th of March 1836 during her natural life subscribed and sworn in open court December 26, 1853
Bethia Watson {seal}
M U Joiner JP
Page 9

3
State of Mississippi
Leake County
Personally appeared before me M U Joiner acting Justice of the in and for said County Mrs Bethia Watson and stated upon her oath that she was unable from infirmities and other disabilities to attend Court at Carthage Leake County
Decr 26th 1853
Bethia Watson {seal}
M U Joiner JP

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
Personally appeared before me this day M U Joiner acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, Mrs Sarah Watson deposeth and saith, she has every reason to believe that John Watson husband of Bethiah Watson now a widow was a soldier in the Revolution in active service and that said John Watson went from Chester District South Carolina and that said Bethia Watson is the widow of said John Watson and that said John Watson and Bethia his wife sustained a loss by fire which consumed all their effects including Beding papers &c and that his discharge was consumed at that time
Sarah Watson {seal}
December 26, 1853
M U Joiner JP
Page 10

4
State of Alabama
Shelby County
November 30th 1853
On this day personally appeared before me Michael Quinn acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County deposeth and saith to wit, that I Lewis Turner was akquainted with John Watson a Revolutionary soldier for many years and Bethia Watson his wife who now lives in Leake County State of Mississippi and further states that he has every reason to believe that they were lawful man and wife and have never heard the validity of there marriage doubted
Lewis Turner {seal}
Michael Quinn
Justice of the Peace

The State of Alabama
Shelby County
I John McClanahan Judge of Probates for said County do hereby certify that Michael Quinn whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing affidavit is & was at the time of signing the same a Justice of the Peace in & for said County of Shelby duly commissioned and qualified that he is entitled to full faith and credit for all his official acts and such
Given under my hand and seal of Office at Office in Columbiana December 1st 1853
J M McClanahan
Judge of Probate
{LS}
Page 11

5
The State of Alabama
Tuscaloosa County
Personally appeared before me Lewis Ethridge an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County Robert Cook, deposeth and saith, that I was acquainted with John Watson a revolutionary soldier and Bethia Watson his wife who is now a widow living in Leake County State of Mississippi and further states that he has every reason to believe that they were lawful man and wife and has never heard the validity of their marriage doubted
Robert Cook
Sworn to this 5th day of Dec 1853
Lewis Ethridge JP

The State of Alabama
Tuscaloosa County
I Moses McGuire Judge of Probates for said County hereby certify that Lewis Ethridge Esqr whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing Affidavit is and was at the time of signing the an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and qualified and that all his official acts is entitled to full faith and credit
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office at office this 5th day of December AD 1853
Moses McGuire
Judge of Probates
{LS}
Page 12

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson Clerk of the Probate Court of said County do hereby certify that the six foregoing half sheet of fools cap paper contains a full and perfect transcript of the case indicated thereby as fully and perfectly as the same now appears of Record in my Office
Given under my hand and seal of said Court at my Office in the Town of Carthage this 26th day of December AD 1853
John A Hanson Clerk
Page 13

15,099
Berthia Watson
Widow of John
July 7 1838
Mississippi
J. W. Stevens Jany 26 1854 
Same May 6 1854 - same Aug 29 1854 - same Dec 26 1854 - same Nov. 2 1855
Same Nov. 8 / 56
Same Feb 10 / 1857
Same Aug 28, 1857
Same Sept 9, 1857
Same Nov 18, 1857
Page 14

E
Hillsboro, Ohio, Jan. 19th, 1886
To 3rd Auditor of Treasury
Sir, please inform me, if the records of your office, show, when & where, James Watson, enlisted in the Revolutionary War and received a pension, and the Country of his nativity, if you can give it.
It may be possible that my information is not very correct, and it may be possible that he enlisted from Beaver County, Tenn, at which place he died.
We can not give you the company nor regiment.
Respectfully
A.D. Wiggins

Rejd James Watson 11.203 Ky
File James do 23994 Pen [checkmark]
Admd F15451 Lucy Miss
File 40643 James Va
Page 15

W.
[stamp] THIRD AUDITOR'S OFFICE RECEIVED JAN 21 1886
[stamp] U S PENSION OFFICE JAN 25 1886
[stamp] THIRD AUDITOR'S OFFICE, COLLECTION DIVISION. JAN 22 1886
Page 16

Sate of Mississippi
County of Leake SS
Be it known, that on this day personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, for the county aforesaid the two following named deponents to wit, Sarah Watson David L Watson who in due and solemn form of Law, doth on their oath declare, 1st. that Mrs Bethiah is the widow of John Watson, 2d. that said John Watson died in the State of South Carolina, and that said Bethiah his wife came from the State of South Carolina to the State of Mississippi 3rd. that by Genl. Reputation the said John Watson was a soldier in the War of the Revolution in the State of South Carolina, 4. that the said John Watson was the husband of the said Bethiah Watson, and they believe him to have been the identical John Watson who served in said war and State of South Carolina as stated, and I certify the above named deponents are persons of truth, and can be relied on, Given under my hand in said County and State, this 26th day of June, in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and Fifty four.
Sarah Watson {seal}
David Watson {seal}
Test.
Geroge W Joiner
R H M Fryer
subscribed and sworn to this date above writen in my presence
M. U. Joiner JP.

witness
Page 17

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson Clerk of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that M U Joiner whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing affidavit, is and was at the date of the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County and State duly elected qualified and commissioned according to law and that all his official acts are entitled to full faith and credit
Given under my hand and seal of Office at Carthage this 8th day of July AD 1854
John A Hanson Clerk

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James T Ellison Judge of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that John A Hanson whose signature & seal of office appear above annexed is and was at the time of making
Page 18

the above certificate the Clerk of said Court duly commissioned & qualified according to law. That his said certificate is in due form of law and by the proper officer, and as such entitled to full faith credit and authority.
Given under my hand and seal this 10th day of July 1854.
Jas T. Ellison {seal}
Probate Judge
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[left column]
1912. Oct. 1. Data to Hon. B.P. Tillman for Letter with claim William Lewis, R.F. 6335.

[right column]
11,202
P.O.
Berthia Watson
Service: wid John
1-0
REJECTED
Enlisted:
Discharged:
Application filed:
Alleges:
Re-enlisted:
Attorney:
P. O.
Recognized. Contract.
Cert. of Dis. Searched for.
Page 20

State of Mississippi
Leake County
October 18th, 1854,
Personally appeared before me this day in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight hundred and fifty four M U Joiner acting Justice of the peace, Mrs. Bethiah Watson and Sarah Watson, and deposeth, to wit, that John Watson who went to the army of the Revolution from the State of South Carolina whose name stands recorded in the Comptrollers office in the State of South Carolina was the husband of said Bethiah Watson, petitioning for relief in consideration of the service of her husband and, who served in the Revolution, and that said Bethiah Watson is the widow of the identical John Watson who served in the Revolution and went from the State of South Carolina and whose name stands recorded in the Comptrollers office in the State of South Carolina
Sarah Watson {seal}
Bethiah Watson {seal}
D L Watson {seal}
witness
R H M Fryer
Nancy Fryer
Signed and sealed in my presence this day Oct 18 1854
M U Joiner {LS}
Page 21

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson clerk of the Probate Court of said County, do hereby certify that M U Joiner Esqr whose genuine signature appears to the two within certificates is and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said
County and State duly qualified and commissioned according to law and that all his official acts are entitled to full faith and evidence
Given under my hand and Seal of Office at Carthage this 24th day of October A D 1854
John A Hanson Clerk

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James T. Ellison Judge of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that John A. Hanson, whose genuine signature and seal of office appear above, is and was at the time of making the above certificate Clerk of said Court duly commissioned and sworn according to law, and that his said certificate is in due form of law and by the proper officer, and that as such
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full faith credit and authority are due to his official acts. Given under my hand and seal this 24th day of October 1854.
Jas T. Ellison {seal}
Probate Judge

[stamp] PENSION OFFICE APR 19 1859.
Page 23

State of Mississippi
Leake County
Personally appeared before me this day Oct 18th and in the year of our Lord One Thousand Eight hundred and fifty four M. U. Joiner acting Justice of the Peace, Sarah Watson and deposeth to wit; that Lewis Turner and Nancy his wife was married in Union District South Carolina and that he died in Shelby Co. Alabama in the fall of 1835.
And Nancy his wife died in the year 1848, and that said Nancy Turner has never received any any pension from the death of her husband Lewis Turner
Sarah Watson {seal}
D L Watson {seal}
witness
R H M Fryer
Nancy Fryer

Signed and sealed in my presence the day Oct 18, 1854
M U Joiner {LS}
Page 24

Comptroller General's Office
Columbia S.C. Septr. 29th 1856
I hereby certify that it appears a "Pay Roll of Captn. William Alexander's State Troops the Regt. of Light Dragoons Commanded by Lt. Col. Wade Hampton" that John Watson entered said Troop 16th May and served as private 10 months.
No Seal of Office
Given Under my hand
W M R Huntt
Dep. Comp. Genl.
Page 25

No 278
Lib. T
Issued 30th June 1785 to Mr. John Watson for Thirty nine Pounds 17/ 1 ½ Sterling, for 558 days Militia Duty in 1778 & 1782, per account audited.
Principal L 39.17.1 ½
Annual Interest L 2.15.9
No 52
No 52
T. 278
30th June. 85
Mr. John Watson's Acct. for 558 days, in Militia from7th Decemr. 1778 to 5th Feby. 1782
Amount L 39.17.1 ½
Thirty nine pounds seventeen Shillings and one penny half penny Sterlg.
Exd. J. McAly

State of South Carolina
Dr. To John Watson
December the 7th 1778 To 56 days duty at 10 Shillings pr day
28.0.0
March the 3d. 1779 To 28 days duty a[t] 10 Shillings pr day 14.0.0
April the 10th 1781 To 210 days duty at 10 Shills. pr day 105.0.0
February the 5th 1782 To 264 days duty at 10 Shills. pr day 132.0.0
[total] L 279.0.0
[total] 39.17.1 ½ Stg.
Certifyed pr me
Anderson, Thomas Capt.

So. Carolina
Camden Dist.
Appeared John Watson and
Page 26

made oath that the above accompt of L 279 former currency is justly due him, and that he has never recd any part thereof.
Sworn to before me this 1st day of June 1784
Dd. Hopkins

Broad River 17th Sept 1784
Gentlemen please to deliver to Colo. David Hopkins such Indent or Indents as may appear to be due to me from the State of So. Carolina or from the United States, and this be your sufficient receipt for the same.
John Watson
Witness
Amos Davis J.P.

To the Commissn. of the Treasury So. Carolina
Received 30th June 1785 full satisfaction for the within in an Indent No. 278, Book T. 
By an Order
Thomas Lehre

Comptroller General's Office
Columbia Septr 29th 1856
I hereby certify the foregoing to be a true copy from Indent Book "No 278 Lib. T" and also of the account upon which said Indent was issued.
Given under my hand
W M R Huntt
Dep. Comp. Genl.
No Seal of Office
Page 27

No 40
Book W.
Issued the 1st of August 1785 to Mr. John Watson for Four Pounds fifteen Shillings and Eight Pence half penny Sterling for 67 days duty in the Militia as per account audited.
Principal L 4.15.8 1/2
Annual Interest L 0.6.8
No 58

No 40
Lib. W
No 58
Augst 1st 1785
John Watson
For 67 days in Militia a private from 15th March 1780 to 21st May follg. @ 10/ curry. L 33.10/. L4.15.8 1/2
Charged L 5.0.6
Dedt. less 4.9 1/2
[total] Amt. L 4.15.8 1/2 sterlg.

Four pounds fifteen Shillings & Eight pence half penny Sterling
Exd. J. McAly
33.9.11
6.6 9
[total] 8

The State of South Carolina
To John Watson Dr To 67 days duty in Camp S@ 1/6 Sterg. pr day L 5.0.6
George Town District
Personally came John Watson and maketh oath that the above acct. of Five pounds & 6d. Sterling agt. the Public is just and true.
Sworn the 10th August 1784 Before me.
Gavin Witherspoon J.P.
14 August
Page 28

Received 1st Day of August 1785 full satf for the within in an Indent No 40 Book W. By Order
uP
---
Comptroller General's Office
Columbia Septr 29th 1856
I hereby certify the foregoing to be a true copy from Indent "No. 40 Book W" and also of the account upon which said Indent was issued.
No Seal of Office
Given under my hand
W M R Huntt
Dep. Comp. Genl.
Page 29

State of Mississippi
County of Leake SS
Augus[t] the 6 ad 1856
On this day personally appeared before me, a Justice of the peace, for the County aforesaid, Mrs Sarah Watson and Mrs Nancy Fryer. Who, in due, and solemn form of Law, doth, on their Oaths, declare that they knew John Watson deceased Husband of Birthia Watson, now applying for pension in right of her said Husband, that in the State of South Carolina John Watson was reputed to be a soldier of the Revolution, and at one time, before his death, had Intended to have made application, to have his name inscribed on the pension roll of pensioners. That Birthia Watson is truly, the widow of the identical John Watson of South Carolina, who was a Revolutionary Soldier, and whose service is certified by Comproller of South Carolina. Bodily infirmity prevents Mrs Sarah Watsons attendance at Court.
Sarah Watson {seal}
Nancy Fryer {S}
Sworn to, and Subscribed before me this the 6 day of August 1856. and I certify, affiants are persons of truth and respectability, and can be relied on. Given under my hand the date above written,
Samuel J. McKay J.P.
Page 30

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James W. Wilder Clerk of the Probate Court of said County do hereby certify that Samuel J. McKay whose genuine signature appears to the within instrument of writing is and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly elected sworn and commissioned and as such all his official acts are entitled to full faith and credit.
Given under my hand and seal of Office at Carthage this 11th day of August A.D. 1856.
James W. Wilder Clerk

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I, James A Campbell Judge of the Probate Court of said county hereby certify that James W. Wilder whose genuine signature and official seal appear above is and was at the time of making his certificate hereunto annexed Clerk of said Court duly sworn and commissioned according to law that his said certificate is in due form of law and by the proper officer and that as such full faith credit and authority on and to his official acts
Given under my hand and seal this August 11th AD 1856
James A Campbell {seal}
Page 31

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James W. Wilder Clerk of the Probate Court of said County do certify that James A. Campbell whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing certificate is and was at the date thereof Judge of said Court sole & presiding, duly qualified and commissioned and that all his acts in the premises are and ought to be entitled to full faith and credit in judicature and thereout
Given under my hand and Seal of Office at Carthage this 11th day of August A.D. 1856
James W. Wilder Clerk

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James A Campbell Probate Judge of said County duly certify that the witnesses Sarah Watson & Nancy Fryer so far as I know are respectable and worthy to be believed and are of good standing in this county
Given under my hand and seal this August 16th AD 1856
James A Campbell {seal}
Page 32

State of Mississippi
Leake Co., March 15, 1854.
Personally appeared before the me M U Joiner acting Justice of the peace in and for said County Mrs Bethiah Watson, deposeth and sayeth, (to wit) that she was lawfully married to John Watson, in the State of Virginia Pittsylvania County, and according to her best recollection on the last day of November in the year of our Lord One thousand seven and Eighty four and that licence was obtained from court when married and she further states that her house was burned at an early day after her marriage, at which time her family Bible in which her Marriage was recorded was burned and that she knows of no private or public record of her marriage unless it be at the Court House in the above afforsaid County in the State of Virginia
Bethiah Watson
M. U. Joiner J P {seal}
Witness
R H M Fryer
D L Watson
Page 33

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson Clerk of the Probate Court of said County, hereby certify that M U Joiner Esqr whose genuine signature appears to the within certificate is and was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly qualified and commissioned according to law and that all his official acts are entitled to full faith and credit.
Given under my hand and seal of Office at Carthage this 25th day of March AD 1854
John A Hanson clerk
Page 34

State of Mississippi
County of Leake
Be it known, that on this day personally appeared before me M. U. Joiner acting Justice of the peace in and for said County the two following persons David L Watson and Sarah Watson, who in due and solemn form of Law doth on their oath declare that John Watson who served in the war of the Revolution and who went from the State of South Carolina and whose name is recorded in the comptrollers office of said State was the lawful weded husband of Bethiah Watson now residing in the state of Mississippi and County of Leake, and that said Bethiah Watson is the widow of the Identical John Watson above mentioned, who served in the war of the Revolution in the State of South Carolina and whose name is recorded in the comptrolers office in the State of South Carolina
Nov 20th 1854
Sarah Watson {seal}
David L Water {seal}
witness R H M Fryer
John Jones

Subscribed and sworn to the day and date above written
M U Joiner J P. {Ls}
Page 35

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson Clerk of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that M U Joiner Esqr whose name appears to the within certificate is and was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly Elected qualified and commissioned according to law and that his official acts are entitled to full credit
Given under my hand and seal of Office at Carthage this 20th day of November AD 1854
John A Hanson clerk

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James T. Ellison Judge of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that John A. Hanson whose genuine signature and seal of office appear above is and was at the time of making his certificate above written Clerk of said Court (which Court is a Court of record) duly commissioned and sworn. That his said certificate is in due form of law and by the proper officer and that full faith credit and authority are due to his official acts. Given under my hand and seal this 20th day of November 1854.
Jas. T. Ellison {seal}
Probate Judge

11202
Page 36

Abingdon Jay 30th 1857
Comr. of Pensions
Dear Sir,
Some three months ago, I enclosed affidavit of Sarah Watson who is Daughter of Nancy and Lewis Turner, making oath to the identity of Byrthea Watson, as the widow of John who was in the War of the Revolution in South Carolina, the parties having moved from South Carolina to Miss, and being poor, are unable to return there to seek proof. Byrthea is a widow, and very old, and has to rely on the kindness of others, our private opinions have nothing to do with public duties, but most assuredly, in the absence of further proof John Watson's claim, under his widow is just, and she is truly the widow of the said John a soldier of the Revolution from S.C. the parties reside in Miss. So far from here, it is impossible, to impress them with the necessity of proving particular facts, they seem to be ignorant of all sorts of legal proceedings. I much hope Mrs Sarah Watsons affidavit may be found. It may probably be misplaced. Rigid as I am disposed we should be, in all claims against the government I verily believe this claim is a just one. Else I would drop it.
Very truly & respectfully
your Obt St
J. W. Stevens
Page 37

July 23 1854 Newtonville. P. O Attalla Co Miss
Mr. Stevens,
Dear Sir I should have answered your two former letters before the last communication, but for a press of business and peculiar circumstances connected with my situation & occupation. I moved from Leake to Attalla, and before I moved, I was engaged in this business with you for the parties and they being unable I advanced about $30. for them in obtaining the evidence which I sent to you and some of it, I had to go to Alabama for, about three hundred miles and since I have moved I have spent what little I had collected. I am now among strangers engaged in the practice of medicine and such is my practice that I cannot leave without doing a material injury to many of my patients as well as running the risk of curtailing my practice. I expect to go to where the parties are on Monday next to attend to your last communication, and you will find that I have changed the reading of the affidavit as John Watson died in the state of South Carolina but I think every other time is embraced. I will send the original with the other documents and if it is necessary and such a copy as you may judg correct, with the alteration sellitive to the death of John Watson but I hope, the alteration which I have made will not fail to meet any demand of law embrued in the reading of the copy you sent. As the alteration appears from the necessity of the case, you can grasp now why the money has not ben sent you which is required for obtaining the evidence from South Carolina relative to the term of service of J Watson if I had ben in Leak I could
Page 38

have obtained the money and you should have had it and if you can obtain the evidence do so and I shall write to you 2 weeks from this date in which letter I will send you the ten dollars required. 
and as to Mrs. S Watsons case connected with her father I know not but I sent you an affidavit from Alabama stating that Lewis Turner died in Shelby Co. Alla. and if I mistake not, where and when he drew pension but I have no impression of having sent any particulars of marriage. I can obtain the facts by writing to Allabama for them, and so far as I can learn from the Old Lays hear, Mr. and Mrs. Turner was married in 1782. I commenced this a few days ago and now make a finish and should have done so but could not sooner. I had sent the papers to the court house to be authenticated and been waiting for their arrival, if anything is is wrong you must let me know it. Yours Resp. R. H M Fryer
Page 39

Birthea Watson
widow of John
Page 40

Abingdon August 21, 1854
Comr. of Pensions
Dear Sir.
In relation to Berthia, widow of John Watson of South Carolina, for pensions under act of July 7th 1838. So far as indentity of the parties (to other) there is not a doubt, but she is truly the widow of the identical John Watson, her husband, under whom she claims - I herewith enclose further, and hope satisfactory proof on that point just to hand. And of the official proof of service from Comptroller of South Carolina, of which, you have his letter, you shall soon have, the reason why it was not adduced at an earlier day, is accounted for in Mr. Fryars letter herein enclosed, I also enclose another power of attorney fearing the former was mislaid, as in the case of Mrs Sarah Watson,
I am dear sir
Very Respectfully
your obt st
J W Stevens
Page 41

Abingdon Debr. 13th 1854.
Comr. of pensions,
Dear Sir
I enclose further proof of Berthea widow of John Watson, Inst 2d from Miss.
I am Dear Sir
Very respectfully
your obt St
J W. Stevens
Page 42

Abington April 29th 1854.
Hon Comr. Marriage of Berthea Watson

Dear Sir,-
I enclose, Clerks Certificate of Mrs. Berthea Watson, also letter of John
Watsons service, her husband from auditors office South Carolina, the last, I would have sent some time ago, but was waiting on Mrs. Watsons remittance to pay fee for certificate - but not having heard from her for some time, have concluded to forward. Audittors letter, showing the service he did perform, and if the fee is limited, and you require it, I will
Order the certificate of service.
I am Dear Sir
Very Respectfully
Your Obt St
J W Stevens
Page 43

Newton Ville P.O. Allata Co, Novem 29. 1854 Miss
Mr Stepens
Dear Sir I have delayed a return answer to your last two communications longer than I had Intended, but I have ben controwled by circumstances connected with my practice and my mother in law lives in the adjoining county I have however obtained I think, the presise nature of Evidence you wrote for I would be glad to hear from you by the return maile what you think of the Evidence and the prospect of success the amt. & I would be glad if I could send the money you need for the S Carolina Evidence I have allready spent some 30 or 40 Dollars for the widows since I first wrote you on the subject of their claims, in traveling and obtaining evidence for them, I am pressed for want of funds, but if you can prosecute this buisness further and wait a short time, I will remit it to you the surviving children of Lewis Turner deceased are Lewis Turner Junr Nancy Walton William Turner Sarah Watson the above are all that we now know of
am Dear Sir
Yours Respectfully
R H M Fryer
Page 44

Abingdon Jan 14th 1854
Hon Comr.
Dear Sir,
Enclosed is the declaration of Mrs B. Watson Widow of John Watson of Mississippi. She declares - John Watson was soldier of Revolution Honorably discharged and that his discharged was burned - all this may be true. And his name appear on some Roll as such, but they lack the proof. Witnesses bearing, or understanding that A or B were soldiers in the Revolution is no proof - so have I said by letter to Mrs Watson - She is a very old woman. 85 years of age and will not need it long - but that does not change the principle or alter the facts in the case.
I am dear Sir
Very respectfully
your obt st
J W Stevens
Page 45

Abingdon Oct 23d 1855
Comr. of Pensions
I enclose prove of Berthia Widow, of the identical John Watson as Soldier of the Revolution from S.C.
The luck proof of service, under seal of Comproler of South Carolina he has stated the service of Watson in letter form. (not under Seal) Mrs. Watson is so poor, she cannot command $10 pay. for certificate of service. I have so often informed them of the necessity of his proof under seal and they as often promising the fee. Now at the pinch, she cannot raise it. If confidence could be placed in the Comproler. Without Seal, which is filed, it would save the ten dollars otherwise I will furnish it and charge her. The really hope this proof may be satisfactory, as it meets the requirements heretofore made.
I am Dear Sir
yours truly
J W Stevens
Page 46

Abingdon Novr. 9th 1857
Comr. of Pensions,
Sir
I have just red. the enclosed paper from Miss. I am informed, the reason it was not sent at an earlier day is, after geting it from the Court, the person who red. it mislaid it, and could not find it untill recently.
I am Sir
very respectfully
Your Obt St
J.W. Stevens
Page 47

Abington Sept 27th 1854
Comr. of Pensions
Dear Sir,
yours in relation to Nancy Turner was rcd. on yesterday, I some time ago wrote to them to make the required proof and forward it to me as soon as possible, their Daughter Sarah Watson resides in Mississippi and it is generally two to three months before I receive ansr. from her, I hope the desired proof will soon be rcd. and sent to the department.
I have also required of Birthea to show that she is widow of the identical John Watson named by Comproler of South Carolina,
She can show her Husband John Watson is the only man of the name on the record of said State, and it would appear conclusive that she is the Widow of that man. (his extreme ap) and her not knowing, his name was on record, and in her declaration alledging he went from that State, take it all together, I am induced to believe she is right.
I am Dear Sir
Very Respectfully
Your Obt St
J W. Stevens
Page 48

Abingdon Septr 4th 1854
Comr. of Pensions
Dear Sir
Yours is rcd. in relation to Sarah Watson, daughter & only child, of Lewis Turner, pensioner of Alabama who died in 1834. I do not recollect the same of her mother, the widow of Lewis Turner, but suppose it was Nancy, from the fact of your so calling her, but think she has so stated in her declaration Mrs Turner is dead, but at what time she died I do not remember but by reference to her declaration, hope it will be found. She claims pension arear in right of her Father Lewis Turner which I think she specifies, in her case I presume, the date of Lewis Turners Marriage is not material, and respectfully ask the reading of her declaration.
In the case of Byrthia, widow, of John Watson, I will by next mail enclose to Comproler of S.C. Fee for certificate of his service. And should have adduced that proof at an earlier day, but had made no special contract with Mrs. Watson, she promising to remit the amt. of fee, which she has failed to do, and hearing she is very poor, at once accounts for it. Experience admonises caution, in these cases. I have paid much for them, and no return, in her case however, I will risque the fee hoping her case may prove good. I have from the commencement of this case feared the difficulty of identifying her, as the widow, of John Watson on the rolls of S.C. but hope to elicit sufficient proof, the strong presumptive proof is, before she know of my application to comproler, in her declaration, She allidges, he went from S.C. and he being the only John Watson on the SC rolls, is strongly in
Page 49

her favour
She has written to be me, that she has heard Watson say, he was under an Officer, she thinks, named Hampton, and that he Watson, had a Brother R[illegible] in battle, she thinks his officer was Wade Hampton, but hearing so much of Wade Hampton she may be mistaken as to that, she thinks her husband John Watson went first from Chester district, and his last service was about 80 or 81, his discharges were burned when their House, was consumed by fire, she is 84 years of life, her certificate now on file will show date of marriage. Watson died in 1802 1810.
In relation to Lewis Turner, Father of Sarah Watson he drew pension for two years, and by negligence or infirmathly, he never rcd. any more, up to his death in 1834.
I am Dear Sir
Very respectfully
your Obt St
J W. Stevens
Page 50

Abingdon May 11th 1854
Hon Comr.
Dear Sir,
by last night Mail I rcd. your two communications in relation to the widows, Watsons as you will perceive Mrs. Berthia Watson resides in the State of Miss, she alledges service to have been performed in South Carolina. She had no thought of my application to the Auditor for proof of the fact, and finding he did perform service, it raises a presumption of his identity. I personally know nothing of the parties. I was employed by them, through letter. they may be reliable, or they may not in character for truth, but as said, the presumption is in her favour. I shall get the certificate from the Auditor of his service and shall at once write to her.
the other case, accompanying Berthias, was Sarah Watson of Miss. the daughter of Lewis Turner a pensioner. In both cases I was clothed with power of Atto, and intended to have sent them with cases, but if I have omited it. I have otherwise mislaid them, and will have them removed Mrs Sarah Watson Daughter of Lewis Turner is of Miss. I have no case in the department for Alabama and she was alive a few months ago. (and a Widow) I would suppose from your communication in the case of Sarah called Nancy Turner of Ala. There is a mistake. She claims arear, in right of her Father Lewis Turner.
I am Dear Sir
Most Respectfully
J W. Stevens
Page 51

Abingdon August 17th 1857.
Comr. of Pensions
Sir,
I beg to be pardoned for saying a few words in review of the claim of Byrthia widow of John Watson decd. for pension & Bounty Land. I am sure it is as unpleasant to me, as it must be to you, to refer so often to case in abayance, and but for the many letters of Mrs Watson to me in relation to it, I would not trouble you, What is the proof in this Case, 1st She alledges she is the widow of John Watson of South Carolina who served in the Revolution, this is proved, 2d. She alledges John Watson served in the War of the Revolution from S.C. this is proved, she alledges marriage, in the County of Pittsylvania, this is proved, the Comproller of S.C. says there is or was, no other John Watson from that State in said war, this is so strong presumptive proof, that this John who served is or was the Husband of Byrthia Watson, there cannot be a doubt, on the subject. If there were more John Watsons than the one, then there would be a doubt and Byrthia should be held to a strict identity.
Very truly &&
your obt st
J W. Stevens
Page 52

Decem. 10, 1856
Newtonsville Atalla Co. Miss
Mr Stevens
Dear Sir
I recd yours of Nov 12, and hasten to comply with your request I have just returned home, having ben water bound, I interrogated Mrs. Sarah Watson as you directed, and her answer was as follows, that when she first knew the family of John Watson her Father in law he lived in Chester District S.C. they then moved to Spartenbourg where she married Frances Watson son of John Watson and had heard him speak of being form and raised in Pittsylvania VA, and that John Watson and his Father died in Spartenbourg S.C. I then interrogated Mrs Bethiah Watson, the old Lady, and she answered as follows, that her husband John Watson was born and raised in Pittsylvania VA, and that John removed with his Father to Edgefield District South Carolina, and that said John Watson entered the war from Edgefield and after his term of service expired of the war closed that John Watson came to Pittsylvania VA, where she then lived and married her, they then lived in said County till they had one child, they moved from Pittsylvania to Edgefield District where John Watsons Father then lived, and they lived with his Father about 8 years, the whole then moved to Chester District S.C. and lived in said District 10 or 12 years, when all of the family then moved to Spartenburg Dist. S.C. where John Watson died,
Page 53

May the good Lord favour the speedy and successfull termination of the old lady's claim, as she is verry old and verry needy so mote it be.
Yours Respectfully
R H M Fryer
Page 54

Abingdon Septr 2d 1857
Comr. of Pensions
Sir
Your favour came to hand last evening, in relation to the claim of Birthia widow of John Watson for Pension In Justice to Comproller of South Carolina I must say, he only regarded the Certificates as a continuation of the service atternably of Watson, from the similar manner and form of his signature, he supposed all the signatures, made by one & the same individual, he never by certificate said there was but one John Watson in South Carolina service, but his language conveyed a presumption, that such was his mearing my recollection of the various signatures, does not now, enable me to say, or form an opinion, whether the same hand wrote one or more of them my duty was to get all the testimony in this case that could be obtained and present it, and for you to decide on the validity of the claim, when I have done this, my duty is performed to the Old Lady, whether right or wrong. In good faith to the government,
I am Sir
your obt St
J W. Stevens
Page 55

In relation to the service, if any, of John Watson in N.C. I know nothing from the Widow, the Watson family are now & may have been many at that day, in Pittsylvania County near N.C. and there may have been a John in that State.
Our John was raised and married in that County, as Certificate of Marriage will show.
I was recently informed how true I cannot say, that our John Watson, applied to the State of South Carolina for pension, Just before his removial south, how true I know not, but I will try and assertain the fact, and if so his Identity for I assure you I am worn out with the case, as I suppose you are, and but for my obligation to the old Lady I would at once drop it, & many more, although I have incurred all costs, and labour, in them all, it seems to be a poor business. Well, followed, dont say trouble & expense
Stevens
Page 56

Jno. Watson S
Fac-simile

"Liber T. No 278"
Page 57

John Watson
Page 58

Comptroller General's Office
Columbia October 1st 1856
I hereby certify that the name of "John Watson" as it appears on the thin slip of paper hereunto annexed is about as near a fac-simile of said John Watson's signature as I have been able to make from his signature as it appears to his order in favor of Col. David Hopkins ("Broad River 17th Septr. 1784") which said order is filed in this office with Jno. Watson's acct. "T No 278."
No Seal of Office
Given Under my hand
W. M. R. Huntt
Dep. Comp. Genl.
Page 59

Abingdon Novr 11th 1856
Comr. of Pensions,
Sir
your favour is just to hand, acknowledging the papers. Service of John Watson of South Carolina, thinking the certificate embraces three of the same name, probably by a close examination of the Facsimilies, it will appear, the service of one John, Indeed I did not examine them closely, Mrs Watson wrote to me the district they lived in, & where he entered the service, but at this moment, I cannot lay my hand on the letter, but will assertain the fact, by writing to her tomorrow. John Watson was born and raised in Pittsylvania County Virginia, he married in said County, as Certificate of Marriage will show, now filed in pension office, I may be mistaken, but think, Birthias Maiden Name was Witcher, I know the Watsons & Witchers are intermarried. thirty years ago, I know the Watson Family. Saw the men often when at Court, whether John married before or after his service I do not recollect, but he settled in South Carolina and applied to the State for a pension, he then settled in the State of Mississippi, where he died, he must, from the age of Birthia, have married about or shortly after the close of the War, as to his service in the war in S.C. there is not a doubt, and if our opinions had any Wright in the matter I should say, he was the man certified to, I shall address Comproller, and know, If there was more than one John Watson in the service, and know if any John Watson rcd. pension from the State, Birthia says to me, he so applied to the State, but left the State for Miss, how true I know not.
Very respectfully
your obt. st
J W. Stevens
he might have applied to the State for pension, but not likely he would get it, as the war department there was the place
Page 60

Abingdon Debr 24th 1856,
Comr. of Pensions,
Sir,
as the only desire to file every information, slight as it may be unauthenticated from a useable source. When, in accordance with certified proof of Birthia Watsons claim for pension, in right of her Husband John, I enclose the letter of Dr. Fryar touching the
identity of John Watson & Birthia, you may, rely on it, this case is a just one.
I am Sir
very respectfully
Your Obt St
J W. Stevens
Page 61

Newtonville Attala Co Miss.
Jan 6. 1859
Mr Stevens Sir
I have been waiting patiently for several months past to hear from you, and without success the late you wrote, was, in refference to there being more John Watsons in South Carolina and that you were going to seek for proof  to set that objection aside I would be glad to learn if you have succeeded in doing so or not, it seems to me to be a verry tedious case, others in this country, with less testimony as I learn have succeeded and who commenced their investigation long since I first wrote you on the subject and whose at falt I canot tell, whether it is for want of promptness on your part or neglect, in ours in next sending testimony, but I bilieve I have done the verry best I could under your direction yet I may have ben remiss and hear, I will remark, I was looking over some papers, and found the one enclosed within what it was taken for and retained I cannot tell though I remember when I obtained it perhaps I forgot to send it to you examine it and you can determin if it is of any use in the
Page 62

case, I am requested by the family to ingage the attention of Senator Brown from Miss in the case I have determined however to wait untill I hear from you before I take any other course with it examine the paper I hear with enclose to you, I would be glad to hear from you soon the Turner case I know has been dispensed with
Yours Respectfully
R H M Fryer
PS.
Please direct your letter to Sataria Yazoo County Miss. R H M Fryer

[stamp] PENSION OFFICE APR 13 1859.
Page 63

Compr. Genls. Office
Columbia So. Ca.
9 July 1854

Dear Sir
I find one Indent to John Watson for 558 days duty, one for 7 days duty, and two others which does not say whether they are for duty or not. I also found his name on the pay roll for ten months services. If you wish copies please inform me & I will send them to you. Fees for all $7.
Verry Respectfully
Your Obt. Servt.
W. F. Arthur
For Compr. Genl.
Page 64

Abingdon Oct 3rd 1856.
Comr. of Pensions
My Dear Sir,
I enclose proof of Service of John Watson, in South Carolina, late of Mississippi, I think, I have heretofore recently enclosed proof of Identity of his Widow.
Yours truly
& respectfully
J W Stevens
Page 65

[stamp] ABINGDON Va. 28 FEB
[stamp] FREE

Hon Comr. of Pensions
Pension Office
Washington City
D.C.

Berthia Watson
Miss sus 38
Page 66

Abingdon Feby 22d 1854
Hon Comr.
Dear Sir,
In the case of Mrs. Watson widow of John, I beg a little indulgence, I have to day rcd. a letter from the Comproller of South Carolina, giving me a history of of his service, I have asked a certified copy from the records, which I suppose I will receive in a couple of weeks, I have also at the reception of your letter, required proof of marriage, and I am looking for that in some eight or ten days. All of which, will be forwarded, owing to high waters I have been unable to get the additional evidence in the case of Brownings Heirs, they live in the Mountain County near the Ohio, also of Harless his proof is also to got near there, both of which I am expecting duily.
I am Dear Sir
Viry respectfully
Your obt St
J W. Stevens
all the proof in case of Scotts Heirs will be had next week & sent.
Page 67

Ripley Miss April 12th 1859
Comr. of Pensions
Sir
having formed a law partnership in this place, and since here, having seen Mrs. Watson, in relation to her claim for pension, and on yesterday rcd. the within affidavit from Dr Fryar, which had been mislaid, now hope her case may be reconsidered, and if satisfactory, that her Certificate, & Warrant for Bounty land may Issue.
I am sir
Very respectfully
Your Obt St
J W. Stevens
Page 68

I would be pleased to receive the Duplicate warrants of Wm M Grim, John Holt, & Biddy Thomas,

[stamp] PENSION OFFICE APR 19 1859.
Page 69

Abingdon Nov. 7th 1855.
Comr. of pensions
Dear Sir
your favour is to hand in relation to Berthia, widow of John Watson, as soon as I rcd. your previous communication on the subject, I immediately enclosed it to Miss, with directions to meet your requirement. I also applied to Comproller S.C. for a certificate of Watsons Service, to none of which, have I yet rcd. ansr. When we consider the necessary time consumed in hearing from Miss. and the presumption that they would have awaits the session of their court. We may reasonably expect to hear from both places shortly, and as soon as I receive the required proof will transmit it. I very respectfully beg patience in the meantime.
I am Dear Sir
Very respectfully
Your obt st
J W. Stevens
Page 70

Transcript
Page 71

The State of Alabama
Shelby County
Be it known that on this day personally appeared before me Y D Atcheson an acting Justice of the peace in and for said "in & for said" County. The Deponent James Kindrick who in due and solem[n] form of Law doth on oath declare
1st That Mrs Bethiah Watson is the widow of John Watson
2d And that the said Bethiah Watson came from the State of South Carolina to the State of Mississippi
3d That by general reputation the said John Watson was a soldier in the war of Revolution in the State of South Carolina and that he was the husband of the said Bethiah Watson and he believes to be the Identical John Watson who served in the same war and State of South Carolina as stated
James Kindrick his mark X
Sworn and subscribed to August 13th 1855
Y D Atcheson
Justice of the Peace
Attest
A R Pitts his mark X
N W Atcheson

The State of Alabama
Shelby County
I, Y D Atcheson an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County do hereby certify that the above named Deponent James Kindrick is a man of truth and can be relied upon as a man of confidence and is a citizen of this County
Given under my hand August 13th 1855
Y D Atcheson
Justice of the peace
Page 72

The State of Alabama
Shelby County
I J M McClanahan Judge of Probate in and for said County and Exofficio Clerk of said County and keeper of the Seal of said County do hereby certify that Yancy D Atchison Esqr whose genuine signature is signed to the foregoing certificate is and was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn and to whose official acts as such due fearly and credit should be given and I further certify that I have no interest in this application
In Witness of which witness my hand & Seal of Office at Office this 14th day of August AD 1855
J M McClanahan
Judge of Probate
{LS}

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson clerk of the Probate Court of said County do hereby certify that the foregoing is a True Copy of the Original paper now on file in my Office
Given under my hand and Seal of Office at Carthage this 5th day of Sept AD 1855
John A Hanson Clerk
Page 73

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James T. Ellison judge of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that John A. Hanson whose genuine signature and seal of office appear annexed is and was at the time of making the foregoing certificate Clerk of said Court duly commissioned and sworn that his said certificate is in due form of law and by the proper officer and that all his official acts as such are entitled to full faith credit and authority. Given under my hand and seal this 17th day of Septr. 1855.
Jas. T. Ellison
Probate Judge {seal}

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson clerk of the Probate Court of said County do hereby certify that James T Ellison whose genuine signature appears to the above certificate is the sole Judge of the Probate Court of said County duly qualified and commissioned and that all his official acts are entitled to full credit
Given under my hand and seal of office at Carthage this 17th day of Sept AD 1855
John A Hanson clerk
Page 74

Transcript
Page 75

The State of Alabama
Tuskaloosa County
Be it know that on this day personally appeared before me William Thompson an acting Justice of the peace for said County the Deponent Robert Cook who in due and solemn form of Law doth on his oath declare that Mrs Bethiah Watson is the widow of John Watson, and that the said Bithiah Watson come from the State of South Carolina to the State of Alabama where she resided for a number of years and then moved to the State of Mississippi that by general Reputation the said John Watson was a Soldier in the war of the Revolution in the State of South Carolina & was I have "bin" informed by my "parrents" and that he was the husband of the said Bethiah Watson and he believes to be the identical John Watson who served in the same war and State of South Carolina as stated
Robert Cook
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 17th of August 1855
Attest W G Newches
R M Freeman
William Thompson
Justice of the peace

The State of Alabama
Tuskaloosa County
I William Thompson an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County do hereby certify that the above named Deponent Robert Cook is a man of truth and can be relied on as a man of confidence and is a citizen of this county
Given under my hand and seal this "17" day of August 1855
William Thompson
Justice of the peace
Page 76

The State of Alabama
Tuscaloosa County
I Moses McGuire Judge of the Court of Probate within and for the County and State aforesaid do hereby certify that William Thompson Esqr whose genuine signature appears above is and was at the time of signing the same a duly qualified and commissioned Justice of the peace in and for said County and State
In testimony whereof I hereunto subscribe my name and affix my seal of Office in the City of Tuscaloosa State of Alabama this the 16th day of August A D 1855
{LS}
Moses McGuire
Judge of Probate

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson Clerk of the Probate Court of said County do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the original paper now on file in my office
Given under my hand and seal of Office at Carthage this 5th day of September A D 1855
John A Hanson Clerk
Page 77

The State of Mississippi
Leake County
I James T. Ellison judge of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that John A. Hanson whose genuine signature & seal of office appear annexed is and was at the time of making the foregoing certificate Clerk of said Court duly commissioned and sworn that his said certificate is in due form of law & by the proper officer and that all his official acts as such are entitled to full faith credit and authority. Given under my hand and seal this 17th day of September 1855.
Jas. T. Ellison
Probate Judge {seal}

The State of Mississippi
County of Leake
I John A Hanson clerk of the Probate Court of said County hereby certify that James T. Ellison whose genuine signature appears to the above certificate is and was at the date thereof sole Judge of the Probate Court duly qualified and commissioned according to law and that all his official acts are entitled to full faith and credit
Given under my hand and seal of office at Carthage this 17th day of Sept AD 1855
John A Hanson clerk