Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 2311, John Wood, Md.
Page 1

SERVICE
Md.

Wood, John
Rachel

NUMBER
W. 2311
B.L. Wt. 11171-160-55

CONTENTS
Page 2

No. 7.729.
Illinois
John Wood  deceased
of Wabash Co in the state of Illinois who was an Ensign H in the Company commanded by Captain Phillips for the Regt commanded by Col Johnson in the Maryland line for 6 months.  Certificate [illegible] in favour Rachel Wood widow of the deceased 23 March 1833.

INscribed on the Roll of Illinois at teh rate of 57 dollars 66 cents per annum to commence the [illegible] day of March 1834

Certificate of Pension fixed the 23d day of March 1833 and sent to Hiram Bell Clerk of the Wabash County

Arrears to the 4th of
semi-anl allowance ending
Amount due up to the 24th November 1832
$96.01

Revolutionary Claim. 
Act June 7, 1832

Recorded by T. G. Evans Clerk
Book E  Vol. 8. Page 64
Page 3

93.376
Act March 3/55
April 28/55

Rachel Wood 
widow
John Wood Ensign

Capt Philip Smith
Col Johnson
Capt Jacob Collins
Capt Wm McCormack

Sent 1777
Dis 1781
War of Revolution
Rec Pension Act Feby 3 1853

Feby 53-1192
Ensign Joe Johnson
Md. Militia
Ad. 160 ac's Nov 28/55
Dodge

Richard M. Young
Present

Vol W2. page 100.
Page 4

Increase [illegible]
No. 8.192
Illinois (Cent)
Rachel Wood
widow of Jno Wood Sr
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Ensign
Md. Line
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 96 dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on 27 July 1868, 
Ded pay to mad since [illegible line]
Certificate of Pension issued the 12th day of Mar. 1869 and sent to Rachel Wood
Albion
Edward Co Ills

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, [2, 1848 lined out and under it 3/55 and July 27/68] Page 245 Vol. H
Page 5

No. 90016
ACT OF MARCH 3, 1855.
Received Apr. 20 187 56-

John Wood Dec. Ensg-
Capt. Wm Smith
Md. Line
Rev. War

11171-160-85
Rachel widow of John Wood was allowed B. L. Wt - 34-438-80-50. on Acct of the services of her former husband
James Bratton Mar 1872.

Richd. M. Young
Present.
Page 6

21269
Rachel Wood
Application for
Pension

[some text too faint to read]

Allow this claim
Page 7

State of Ilinois
County of Wabash
SS  On this third day of December 1832 personally appeared in open court before Ephraim Pham, Beauchamp Harvey and John Compton Esquires, Judges of the County Commission Courts of Wabash County now sitting HIram Bell who being duly sworn according to law disposed and says that some time in the month of October last, John Wood deceased then a resident of said county gave him this deponent the following statement, which statement he took down in writing at the time and was requested by the said John to prepare a declaration for him the said Wood to make to the present term of the court, in order to obtain the benefit of the acts of Congress passed June 7 1832 to wit,

"that he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated he first was pressed into service by John Peirce Maggon Master/  two or three years before the date of his commission) went through Frederick Town Maryland of Leesburgh Virginia to Edenton North Carolina, and returned the same way, was two months and two or three days in service in April and May.  I got no written discharge- was entered the service on the second day of January 1777, as second Sergeant, this first being back I served as first Seargeant a few days after we got to headquarters under Captain Philip Smith, in Col James Johnsons Regiment, Joseph Wood, Jr. led[illegible] went through Lancaster, Philadelphia, crossed Delaware River at County Ferry, thence to
Page 8

to the White House in New Jersey, where Genl Lee had been taken, and was there stationed, and continued until our time expired.  I served two months, I got no written discharge.
I [illegible] served as Ensign from Captain Jacob Collins Company at Frederick Town Maryland in guarding the british prisoners sometime in the fall or winter of 1781, as he thinks James Johnson was Col, and Joseph Wood Jr Lt Col, served two months and was discharged and recd no writen discharge my commission was signed by that the Gov. of Maryland , and is still in my possession-
I was born in Frederick County Maryland the 29th day of November 1754, ( the Record of my age is in my family prayer book at home), and resided there in the Spring of 1783, then moved to the Berkely County  Virginia and resided there 10 years and then moved back to the Frederick Co and staid 2 years then moved to Kentucky near Lexington and resided there about 3 years, then to Macoun COunty Kentucky and lived there about fourteen years, thence moved to Illinois Wabash Co where I now reside and lived 23 years-  I know of no person by whom I could prove my services.

and this deponent further says that there is evidence in the office of the court of Probate for Wabash County, that the said John Wood departed this life on the 14th day of November and that Rachel Wood is the widow of the deceased, 

Sworn to and Subscribed the day and year aforesaid
Hiram Bell

Beauchamp Harryone [illegible]
the Judges of said Court
Page 9

We Isaac Parmenter and Frederick Miller residing in Wabash County in the state of Illinois hereby certify that we were well acquainted with John Wood deceased whose statement of declaration has been above given we believe him to have been about seventy eight years of age, that he was reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he has long resided to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion, and believe he departed this life about the 14th day of November last-

Sworn to and subscribed this day and year aforesaid 

Isaac Parmenter
Frederick Miller

Hiram Bell Clerk,
and teh said court doe hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of this whole matter that the above named John Wood was a revolutionary soldier and served as above stated, and the Court further certifies that Hiram Bell who made the foregoing disposition and Isaac Parmenter and Frederick Miller who has signed the preceding Certificate, and are residents of Wabash County, and are credible persons, and their statements are entitled to credit.

Ephraim Phal
Beauchamp Handey
John Compton

I HIram Bell Clerk of the County Commissions Board of Wabash County do hereby certify that the foregoing contains,
Page 10

the original proceedings of the said Court on the matter of the application of Rachel Wood for the amount of pension due John Wood her late husband at the time of his decease.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at Mount Carmel this third day of December A. D. 1822 [year illegible]
Hiram Bell Clerk
Page 11

Know all men by these presents that I John Wood
of Wabash County, State of Illinois do hereby constitute and
appoint Samuel M Knight of Washington, my true and
lawful attorney for me and in my name to prosecute the
claim of John Wood an Ensign in the Revolutionary War
for any amount of Revolutionary Pension arrears of Pension
increase, or other came against the government for Revolutionary services that may be due. And my said Attorney
is hereby fully authorized to examine all papers in relation
to said claim that may be on file in the departments at
-
Washington or elsewhere; and to do all lawful things in
relation to said claim, that I myself might or could do
---
were I personally present-
Witness my hand and seal this 7th day of June AD
In presence of
Hiram Bell
℗
Frater B Will
State of Illinois ⎬ 1882 County of Wabash ⎬ On this 7th day of June AD personally appeared before me the undersigned
Clerk of the County Court
in and for the County and State aforesaid
John Wood who acknowledged the foregoing Power of Attorney
to be his free act and deed for the purposes therein mentioned
Witness my hand and official seal this 7th day of
June AD 1857.
Hiram Bell Clark
State of New
County of Weber ⎬ Be it known that on this 7th day of June
before the mayor Clerk of the County Court in and
for the County aforesaid personally appeared John Wood a
resident of Wabash County and State and made oath
according to Law that he is a son of John Wood in the
Page 12

was an Ensign in the Maryland line in the Revolutionary 
War, and entitled to pay from the United States government 
which affirmed the payment of claims due from the State 
of Maryland for Revolutionary services-that he is directly 
interested as a claimant, thereto, and makes this affidavit 
to be filed with such additional evidence as his said 
Attorney above mentioned may use in the prosecution 
of said claim.
Sworn to and subscribed before } John Wood
me the day and year above written }
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my 
hand and affixed the seal of the County Court 
of said County the day and year aforesaid
Hiram Bell Clerk
Page 13

State of Illinois } Ss
County of Edwards } On this 21st day of April 
in the year 1853 personally appeared before the 
undersigned Judge of the Circuit Court in 
and for the County and State aforesaid, Rachel 
Wood aged sixty eight years who being duly 
sworn according to law doth on her oath make the 
following declaration in order to obtain the bene
fit of the provisions made by the act of Congress 
passed the 3rd of February AD 1853. That she 
is the widow of John Wood Senr who was a Revo
lutionary pensioner under the act of 18th March 
1818 as she believes at the rate of ninety six dollars 
per annum according to her recollection and belief 
and who was formerly a resident of Wabash Coun
ty State of Illinois and that the agency at 
which the said John Wood Senr was paid was 
located at Carins, White County, Illinois, or at 
Springfield Illinois.  She further declares that she was married 
to the said John Wood Senr on the seventh day of 
February AD 1824 and that her husband the 
aforesaid John Wood Senr died on or about the 
fourteenth day of November AD eighteen 
hundred and thirty two-and that she was 
married to him at the time above stated.  She further 
swears that she was a widow at the passage of 
the act first aforesaid, and is still a widow, and 
that she has never before made application for 
a pension.
Rachel her X mark Wood
Subscribed and sworn to on the day and }
year first above written before Hon Samuel }
S. Marshall Judge of said Circuit Court }
at Albion, Illinois
Samuel S. Marshall

Mar 1 1920
Page 14

State of Illinois } Ss
Edwards County } On this 21st day of April 
in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and 
fifty three personally appeared in open Court 
before the undersigned Judge of the Circuit Court
within and for the County aforesaid James 
Kenner and Neel A Shelby, who severally made 
oath that they are well acquainted with Rachel 
Wood, the person described in the foregoing declar
ation, and that she still remains the widow of 
John Wood Senr deceased-and further that they 
have no pecuniary interest in the result of this 
application.
Subscribed and sworn to in } James Kenner
open Court this 21st day of } Neil Shelby 
April AD 1853 and I do hereby }
certify that James Kenner and Neil 
A. Shelby are credible witnesses }
Samuel S Marshall

State of Illinois } Ss
Edwards County } I hereby certify that Hon Samuel 
S. Marshall before whom the foregoing declaration 
and affidavit were made, and who has thereunto 
subscribed his name was at the time of so doing 
sole Judge of the Circuit Court in and for the County 
aforesaid duly commissioned and sworn.
In Testimony whereof I have 
hereunto set my hand and affixed 
the seal of said Court at Albion 
this 21st day of April AD 1853
Walter L Mayo, Clk
Page 15

The State of Illinois Edwards County SS

I hereby certify that on the 27 day of January I 
joined together in the holy state of matrimony John Wood 
and Rachel Bratton of lawful age. Given under 
my hand and seal the 7th day of February 1824.
Lenier Pool [illegible initials encircled]

State of Illinois } SS
Edwards County } I Walker L. Mayo Clerk of 
the County Court in and for said County do certify 
that the above certificate is an exact copy of  
the original certificate of marriage on file and of 
record in my office.
Witness my hand and the seal 
of said Court at Albion this 22nd 
day of April AD 1853.
Walter L Mayo, Clk

[Note attached to bottom of page]
The statement in the
widows declarion of Apr. 
21, 1853, that her husband 
John Wood was pensioned 
under the Act of Mar. 18, 1818, 
at the Illinois Agency is 
not correct.

There is only one pensioner
named John Wood found 
in the Ills. Agency Book 
and that is Cert. 7729-
John Wood, decd. Act June 
7, 1832 the husband of 
this woman and the 
papers are in the claim 
see Statement of Hiram Bell
AW
Mar. 1. 1920
Page 16

93.316
Declaration
of Rachel Wood
widow of John Wood
for Bounty Lander
under Act 7 March
3.1855-
Rev. War
Richard M. Young atty
Page 17

Declaration for Bounty Land, by a Widow, under the Act of Congress of 
March 3d. 1855.
_______

STATE OF Illinois }
COUNTY OF Edwards } Sct.

On the eleventh day of April 1855, personally appeared 
before me, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County and State aforesaid, Rachel Wood 
aged seventy years, a resident of the county of Edwards  
and State of Illinois, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow 
of John Wood deceased, who was an Ensign 
in the company commanded by Captain Philip Smith in the regiment commanded 
by Colonel Johnson of the Maryland Line 1777-
and performed six months service in the revolutionary war. 
He was also [struck out: a Sergeant] an Ensign in Capt. Jacob Collins' 
Company Catoctin Battalion of Maryland militia in 
the war of the revolution in August 1781-was also an Ensign 
in Capt. Wm. McCarmacks Compny [Company], Col. James Johnson's Regt. 
Maryland militia in 1779.  He was a revolutionary Pensioner under 
act of March 18, 1818, at $56.66 cts per annum-and was paid at the Pension 
agency at Springfield, Illinois.  No. of application 7729 from Illinois.

that her husband volunteered or enlisted at Frederick County, Maryland, on or about the 
[blank] day of [blank], 1779, for [struck out: the term of] several terms 
[illegible], and continued in actual service in the said war for the term of four years, and was  
honorably discharged at [blank] Maryland on the [blank] day of 
[blank], 1781.

She also drew a pension as his widow under 
the act of February 3, 1853, for $56.66 cts Certificate of 
Pension issued August 6, 1853 - application filed from 
Illinois, April or May 1853.  See those Declarations.

She further states, that she was married to the said John Wood
in the county of Edwards, and State of Illinois, or or about 
the 7th day of February, A. D. 1824, by one James Pool 
who was a minister of the gospel; and that her name before her said marriage 
was Rachel Bratton; that her said husband died in the county of 
Wabash, and State of Illinois, on or about the 11th or 14th 
day of November, A. D. 1832; and that she is now a widow.

She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the Bounty Land to which she is entitled under the 
act of Congress approved March 3, 1855; and declares that she has never received a Land Warrant on account of 
the services of her said husband under this or any other act of Congress.  But applied for & received a land 
warrant No. 34438 under the act of Sept. 22, 1850 as widow of [illegible] Bratton deceased +

And finally she hereby constitutes and appoints RICHARD M. YOUNG, of Washington City, her attorney to 
prosecute her said claim to bounty land, and to receive her warrant therefore, when ready for delivery.  John Woods 
no. of application for a pension was 7729-and Rachel Woods as 
his widow 1751 or 1192.  Both paid at Springfield, Illinois.
+see application on file in Pension Office.

Two witnesses - ATTEST: Rachel her X mark Wood [word SEAL in box
[illegible-signatures too faint]
Page 18

We, Niel A. Shelby and Doak Nicks
residents of the county of Edwards and State of Illinois upon our 
oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by the said Rachel 
Wood in our presence; and that we believe from the appearance and 
statements of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be, in and by her said declara
tion, and that they personally know her to be a widow.
Niel A. Shelby [word SEAL in a box]
Soak Nick [word SEAL in a box]

The foregoing declaration and affidavits was subscribed and sworn to before me on the day and year above 
written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be creditable persons; that the claimant is the person she repre
sents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim.
Given under my hand and seal this seventh day of April 1855.
Jonathan Shelby [word SEAL in a box]
Justice of the Peace within and for the county of Edwards
and State of Illinois

STATE OF Illinois } 
COUNTY OF Edwards } Ss.

I, Walter L. Mayo, Clerk of the County Court 
within and for the county of Edwards, and State of Illinois
do hereby certify that Jonathan Shelby, Esq., whose name is subscribed to the 
foregoing certificate, now is, and was at the time of signing and sealing the same, an acting Justice of the Peace 
within and for the county and State aforesaid, duly appointed, commissioned, and qualified to office, and that the
above is his genuine signature, and in his own proper handwriting.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the 
said Court, at the Clerk's Office in Albion 
this 12th day of April, A. D. 1855.
Walter L. Mayo, Clerk
Page 19

No 21249
John Wood
Wabash County 
State of Illinois 

Admitted
2 months - Private 6.66
2 do - Sergeant 10.00
2 do - Ensign 40.00
$56.66
deceased 14 Nov. 1832

Rachel Wood Widow
Special Certificate

Hiram Bell Clk
Wabash County 
Illinois
Page 20

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office

183[blank]

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 these papers with the following rules and 
the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist which must be removed 
before a pension can be allowed.  The notes and the regulations will show what is 
necessary to be done.  Those 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 John Wood Wabash County, Illinois
=================================================================
Period when the |
service was |
rendered. |
_____________ |
[illegible] by |
Enld. 1777 |
 1781 |

Duration of the |
claimant's service. |
_________________ |
Years. | Months. | Days. |
_____________________ |
 | 2 | 2 or 3 |
 | 2 | |
 | 2 | |

Rank of |
the |
claimant. |
_________ |
Private |
2 Sergeant 
[illegible] at |
1st. Sergt. |
Ensign |

Names and Rank |
of the Company |
officers under |
whom he served. |
_______________ |
John Pierce |
Waggon [wagon] |
master |
Capt. Phillip |
Smith |
Capt. Jacob |
Collins |

Names and Rank |
of the General |
and Field officers. |
______________ |
Colonel |
James |
Johnson |
Lieut. Coo. |
Joseph Wood |
Col. Jas. |
Johnson |
Lt. Col.
[illegible] Wood  [illegible |

Battles in which |
the applicant was |
engaged. |
________________ |
None stated

Country through |
which he marched. |
_________________ |
Through |
Frederick |
Town Md. |
Leesburg Va. |
to  [illegible] |
N. Carolina |
and retur |
ned same |
way Through |
Lancaster |
[word struck out] Philad |
crossed Del |
aware riv |
at Cornell's |
ferry thence |
to the White |
house [illegible] |
[illegible] |

Place of abode |
when he entered |
the service, and age |
at the present |
period. |
_________________ |
Frederick Cty |
[struck out: Va.] Md. |
78 years |

Evidence by 
which the decla
ration is sup
ported. 
______________
Documentary 
& Traditionary 

I am respectfully, 
Your obedient servant, 
J. L. EDWARDS
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 21

2

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.

The following regulations have been adopted:

This 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 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 claim
ing the benefit of this law as officers, non commissioned officers, mucicians or privates, will, in the first in
stance, 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 } ss.
County of } 

On this [blank] day of [blank] personally appeared (a) before [blank]
[blank] A. B. a resident (b) of [blank] in the county of [blank] and State, Territory or District
of [blank] aged (c) [blank] 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) [blank], with [blank] and 
served in the [blank] (e) regiment of the [blank] line, under the following named officers :
[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers ; the time he left the service ; (and if he serv
ed 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 per
sons 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 any State, or (if any) only on that of
the Agency in the State of [blank]
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid. [blank] , 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 revolu
tionary solider, and served as he states.
I [blank] of the Court of [blank]
do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of
the application of [blank] for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this
[blank] day of [blank] &c.

If, on examination of the 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 [blank] and C. D. residing in (the same)
hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with [blank], who has
subscribed and sworn to the above declaration ; that we believe him to be [blank]
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 Revo
lutionary Soldier, and served as he states.  And the Court further certifies, that it appears, to them that A. B.
who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the [blank]
and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the [blank]
and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, [blank] Clerk of the Court of [blank] do hereby certify that the foregoing
contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of [blank]
for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal
of office, this [blank] day of [blank] &c.

Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power.  This is the original discharge or commis
sion ; 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 ser
vices of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a 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 his 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.  A very full account of the services of each person
Page 22

3

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case.  The facts stated will afford one on the principal
means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be at
tempted ; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be 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 ; were 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.
 {To a Soldier. { Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it giv
6. {en, 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 tes
tify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services 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 char
acter 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 be very particular in the
enquiry 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 be
fore 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 applicant 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 is a 
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 pro
cure, 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 fol
low the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in 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 or 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.  It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served ; the duration of each term of engagement ;
the particular place or places where the service was performed ; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent au
thority ; 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 of 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 pub
lic 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 con
tains 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 paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.

Proof of Service.

[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses
who are required to set forth in the 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 oaths must certify to the credibility of the wit
nesses, 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] to [i] 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] This 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 23

July 20, 1933
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
John Wood-W.2311
BA-J/AWF
Mr. B. J. Walter
American Legion,
Wabash Post No. 423
Mt. Carmel, Illinois
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which
you request the Revolutionary War record of John
Wood from Maryland, and [illegible]olution lived
Illinois.
From the records of this office it is shown
that John Wood was born November 29, 1754 in Frederick
County, Maryland; the names of his parents
are not given.
While a resident of Frederick County, Maryland,
John Wood served about two months under Wagonmaster
John Peirce, no date given. He was appointed, January
1, 1777, second sergeant in Captain Philip
Smith's company, Colonel James Johnson's Battalion
of Frederick County Militia and served two months. He
was commissioned, April 27, 1779, ensign in Captain
William Carmack's company, Colonel James Johnson's
Battalion of Frederick County Militia, and on April
16, 1781, was commissioned ensign in Captain Jacob
Collins' company, Colonel James Johnson' Catoctin
Battalion of Frederick County Militia, and served
two months.
John Wood moved in the spring of 1783 to Berkley
County, Virginia, where he lived ten years, then
returned to Frederick County, Maryland and lived two
then to near Lexington, Kentucky for three years,
then to Warren County, Kentucky for fourteen years and
finally to Wabash County, Illinois, where he died November
Page 24

11 or 14, 1832.
The soldier, John Wood, married January 27,
1824 ( as shown by the county records) or February
7, 1824 (as stated by his widow) in Edwards County,
Illinois, Rachel Bratton or Bratten, whose maiden
name was Greathouse. The said Rachel was the widow
of James Bratton (Bratten) to whom she was married
June 11, 1805 in Warren County, Kentucky, James
Bratton (Bratten) was a soldier in the War of 1812,
and on his return from service, died April 6, 1815
at Fort Deposit, Tennessee.
Rachel Wood was allowed pension on account of
the services of her husband, John Wood, in the War
of the Revolution, on her application executed April
21, 1853, at which time she was aged sixty-eight
years and living in Edwards County, Illinois, where
she was still a resident in 1868.
John Wood, son of the soldier, John Wood, was
living in Wabash County, Illinois in 1851.
Very truly yours
A. D. Hiller
Assistant to Administrator
Page 25

Copy of M. M. H. F.
July 21, 1932
BA-J/AWF
XXXXXXXXXXXXXX
John Wood
W. 2311
G. W. Courter
7818 Nelson Street
New Orleans, Louisiana
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your request for data in
regard to John Wood of Frederick County, Maryland,
a soldier of the art of the Revolution.
The data contained herein were obtained from
the papers on file in pension claim, W. 2311, based
upon the military service of John Wood, during the
Revolutionary War.
John Wood was born November 29, 1754 in Frederick
County, Maryland.
While a resident of said Frederick County, he
served about two months under Wagonmaster John Peirce,
the year not stated.
He was appointed, January 1, 1777, second sergeant
in Captain Philip Smith's company, Colonel James
Johnson's Battalion of Frederick County, Maryland Militia
and served two months. He was commissioned, April
27, 1779, ensign in Captain William Carmack's company,
Colonel James Johnson's Battalion of Frederick County,
Maryland Militia, and on April 16, 1781, was commissioned
ensign in Captain Jacob Collins' company, Colonel James
Johnson's Catoctin Battalion of Frederick County, Maryland
Militia and served two to the
He moved, in the spring of 1783, to Berkeley
County, Virginia, where he lived ten years, after which
he returned to said Frederick County, then moved near
Lexington, Kentucky, then to Warren County, Kentucky, and
Page 26

finally to Wabash County, Illinois, where he died November
11, or 14, 1832
The soldier, John Wood, married January 27, 1824
(as shown by the county records), or February 7, 1834
(as stated by his widow), in Edwards County, Illinois,
Rachel Bratton or Bratten, whose maiden name was Greathouse.
The said Rachel was the widow of James Bratton
(Bratten), whom she married, June 11, 1805 in Warren
County, Kentucky, James Bratton (Bratten) was a soldier
in the War of 1812, and on his return from service,
died April 6, 1815 at Fort Deposit, Tennessee.
Rachel Wood was allowed pension, on account of
the services of her husband, John Wood, in the War of
the Revolution, on her application executed April 21,
1853, then a resident of Edwards County, Illinois, and
was aged sixty-eight years.
John Wood's son, John Wood, was living in Wabash
County, Illinois in 1851.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator
Page 27

Rev. and 1812
Ware Section.
W. 2311

February 8, 1929

J. McClintock, Major Q. M. Corps
Office of the Quartermaster General
Cemeterial Branch
Washington, D. C.

Sir:

I advise you from the records of this bureau,
it appears that John Wood was born November 22, 1754
in Frederick County, Maryland.
While a resident of said Frederick County, he
served about two months under Wagonmaster John Peirce,
the year not stated.
He was appointed, January 1, 1777, Second Sergeant
of Captain Philip Smith's Company, Colonel James Johnson's
Battalion of Frederick County, Maryland Militia, and
served two months.
He was commissioned, April 27, 1779, Ensign of Captain
William Carmack's Company, Colonel James Johnson's
Battalion of Frederick County, Maryland Militia, and on
April 16, 1781 was commissioned Ensign of Captain Jacob
Collins' Company, Colonel James Johnson's Catoctin Battalion
of Frederick County, Maryland Militia, and served

[handwritten in right margin] Tombstone Data only
Page 28

two months.
Pension was allowed on his application executed
in October 1832, at which time he was living in Wabash
County, Illinois. He died there November 11, or 14,
1832.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner.
Page 29

December 23, 1935

Honorable Arthur H. Greenwood
House of Representatives

My dear Mr. Greenwood:
In response to your letter of the twenty-first instant,
I have the honor to advise you that from the records
of this Bureau it appears that John Wood was born
November 29, 1754 in Frederick County, Maryland.
While a resident of said Frederick County he served
about two months under Wagonmaster John Peirce, the year
not stated.
He was appointed January 1, 1777, Second Sergeant of
Captain Philip Smith's Company, Colonel James Johnson's
Battalion of Frederick County, Maryland Militia and served
two months.
He was commissioned April 27, 1779, Ensign of Captain
William Carmack's Company, Colonel James Johnson's Battalion
of Frederick County, Maryland Militia, and on April 16,
1781 was commissioned Ensign of Captain Jacob Collins' Company,
Colonel James Johnson's Catoctin Battalion of Frederick
County, Maryland Militia and served two months.
In the spring of 1783 he moved to Berkeley County, Vir-
Page 30

gina where he lived ten years, after which he returned 
to said Frederick County, then moved near Lexington, Ken
lucky, and to Warren County, Kentucky, and finally to 
Wabash County, Illinois where he died November 11, or 15, 
1832.

He married January 27, 1824 (as shown by the county 
records), or February 7, 1824 (as stated by his widow), 
in Edwards County, Illinois, Rachel Bratton or Bratten 
whose maiden name was Greathouse.  She was the widow of 
James Bratton to whom she was married June 11, 1805 in 
Warren County, Kentucky.  Said James was a soldier in the 
War of 1812 and on his return from service died April 6, 
1815 at Fort Deposit, Tennessee.

Said Rachel was allowed pension, on account of the 
services of her husband John Wood in the War of the Revolu
tion, on her application executed April 21, 1853 while a 
resident of Edwards County, Illinois aged sixty-eight years.

Said John Wood's son, John Wood, was living in Wabash 
County, Illinois in 1851.

If you desire photostat copies of the papers in this 
pension claim, for one of your constituents, the same will 
be furnished you under the provisions of the Act of August 
24, 1912, at the rate of fifteen cents a page, with twenty

[illegible hand written note at bottom of page]
Page 31

five cents extra for certification if that is desired.

The number of pages to be copied in fourteen.

The proper amount should be forwarded to this Bureau 
by money order drawn to the order of the Secretary of the 
Interior.

Very truly yours,

WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner
Page 32

Rev.&1812 Wars Section   MMHF

January 7, 1926

Honorable Arthur H. Greenwood 
House of Representatives

My dear Mr. Greenwood:

In response to your letter of the 30th ultimo., I 
have the honor to advise you that in the Revolutionary 
War pension claim W. 2311 it is not stated that John 
Wood had any other wife than Rachel, to whom he was mar
ried January 27, 1824 or February 7, 1824.

Very truly yours, 

WINFIELD SCOTT
Commmissioner.
Page 33

[page folded over language] Section  MMHF

January 11, 1926

Honorable Arthur H. Greenwood
House of Representatives

My dear Mr. Greenwood:

In response to your letter of the 8th instant, I 
have the honor to advise you that the names of the parents 
of John Wood and his widow Rachel are not stated in the 
Revolutionary War pension claim W. 2311, and there is no 
further family data on file in said claim, other than the 
reference to soldier's son John Wood, as contained in the 
history furnished you on December 23, 1925.

Very truly yours,

WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner.
Page 34

November [struck out: 6] 5, 1925

Honorable L. C. Phipps
143 Senate Office Building 
Washington, D. C.

My dear Senator:

In response to your inquiry of today, I have the 
honor to advise you that from the records of this 
Bureau it appears that John Wood was born November 29, 
1754 in Frederick County, Maryland.
[Note in right margin regarding the records: a part of this data which 
Miss Wilson said I could use is from the bounty land papers 1812 James 
Bratton of this widow, so I did not say Rev War rec. as I otherwise do.]

While a resident of said Frederick County he serv
ed about two months under Wagonmaster John Peirce, the 
year not stated.

He was appointed January 1, 1777, Second Sergeant 
of Captain Philip Smith's Company, Colonel James John
son's Battalion of Frederick County, Maryland Militia 
and served two months.

He was commissioned April 27, 1779, Ensign of Cap
tain William Carmack's Company, Colonel James Johnson's 
Battalion of Frederick County, Maryland Militia, and on 
April 16, 1781 was commissioned Ensign of Captain Jacob 
Collins' Company, Colonel James Johnson's Catoctin Bat
talion of Frederick County, Maryland Militia and served
Page 35

two months.

In the spring of 1783 he moved to Berkeley Coun
ty, Virginia where he lived ten years, after which he 
returned to said Frederick County, then moved near 
Lexington Kentucky, and to Warren County, Kentucky, and 
finally to Wabash County, Illinois where he died No
member 11, or 14, 1832.

He married January 27, 1824 (as shown by the coun
ty records), or February 7, 1824 (as stated by his wi
dow), in Edwards County, Illinois, Rachel Bratton or Brat
ten whose maiden name was Greathouse.  She was the widow 
of James Bratton to whom she was married June 11, 1805 
in Warren County, Kentucky.  Said James was a soldier in 
the War of 1812 and on his return from service died 
April 6, 1815 at Fort Deposit, Tennessee.

Said Rachel was allowed pension, on account of the 
services of her husband John Wood in the War of the Rev
olution, on her application executed April 21, 1853 while 
a resident of Edwards County, Illinois aged sixty-eight 
years.

Said John Wood's son, John Wood, was living in Wa
bash County, Illinois in 1851.

If you desire photostat copies of the papers in
Page 36

this pension claim the same will be furnished you, 
under the provisions of the Act of August 24, 1912, 
at the rate of fifteen cents a page, with twenty-five 
cents extra for certification if that is desired.

The number of pages to be copied is fourteen.

The proper amount should be forwarded to this 
Bureau by money order drawn to the order of the Sec
rotary of the Interior.

Very truly yours,

WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner.
Page 37

Hon. L. C. Phipps
143 Senate Office Bldg.
Washington, D.C.

wants the history of John Wood, 
Md. service-W. 2311-and 
add to the history the number 
of pages to be photostated & 
how much it would cost.

He 'phoned that sol. sev. from Md. &
d. Nov. 4, 1832 in Friendsville, Wabash Co. 
Ill & was a pensioner.
---------------------------------
November 5-1925
MMHF

His 'phone is Capital, Br. 59.
Page 38

3-525
_____

[page folded over language] PARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.

Washington, D. C., [blank], 19[blank]

In reply to your request of [blank] received [blank] 
for a statement of the military history of John Wood 
a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired 
information as contained in [struck out: his (or] his widow's) application for pen
sion on file in this Bureau.  W. 2311
=================================================================
DATES OF | OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. |
ENLISTMENT OR | LENGTH OF | ____________________________ |
APPOINTMENT. | SERVICE. | RANK. | CAPTAIN. | COLONEL. | STATE.
__________________________________________________________
Apr - | May - | [blank] Wagonmaster John Pierce | [blank] | Md
Jan. 1, 1777 | 2 mos. | 2d Sgt. | Philip Smith | James Johnson | [blank]
Apr. 27 1779 | " | Ensign | William Carmack | James Johnson | [blank]
Aug. 16 1781 | 2 mos | Ensign | Jacob Collins | James Johnson | [blank]

Battles engaged in, Not stated

Residence of soldier at enlistment, Frederick Co. Md. moved to Berkeley Co Va [illegible]

Date of application for pension, April 21,1853.  Her claim was allowed.

Residence at date of application, Edwards Co., Ill.

Age at date of application, 68 years

Remarks: Soldier was born in Frederick Co Md Nov. 29 1754; he married Feb 7, 1824
in Edwards Co. Ills. Rachel (maiden name Greathouse) widow of James Bratton or Bratten, John Wood 
died Nov 11 or 14 1832 in Wabash Co Ills. Soldier's son John Wood was a 
resident of Wasbash Co, Ills. in 1851.

Respectfully,

Commissioner.
Page 39

Wood, John 
W. 2311
Md.
Page 40

Maryland Frederick County

By Virtue of a Commission to me Directed 
from the Honourable Convention of said province appointing 
me Captain of a Company of Militia of said County in Colo.
James Johnsons Battalion. Therefore I do hereby nominate 
and appoint you John Wood as my Second Sergant [Sergeant]
requiring you the said John Wood to yield due obedience 
to your Superior Officers as also requiring all persons 
under Your Command to yield due obedience unto You 
Given under my hand this first day of January Seventeen 
hundred and Seventy Seven.
Philip Smith Captain
Page 41

[illegible language]

Wood John 
W. 2311
Md.
Page 42

The State of Maryland to John Wood gentleman Greeting,

BE it known, that reposing especial trust and confidence in your fidelity, courage, good 
conduct, and attachment to the liberties and independence of America, you are by these presents constit
tuted and appointed Ensign of Capt. William Carmack's Company in 
Colo. James Johnson's Battalion of Frederick Count of Militia

You are therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the trust reposed in you, by disciplining 
all officers and soldiers under your command; and they are hereby strictly enjoined and re
quired to obey you as their Ensign

And you are to observe and follow all such orders and directions as you shall from time to time 
receive, according to the laws and constitution of this state, and the rules and regulations, 
which, under the authority thereof, are or may be established.  This commission to be in 
force until lawfully revoked.

G I V E N at ANNAPOLIS this 27th day of April Anno domini, 1779.
[illegible signature]
Page 43

Wood John
W. 2311
Md.
Page 44

The State of Maryland to John Wood Gentleman Greeting,

BE it known, that reposing especial trust and confidence in your fidelity, courage, good 
conduct, and attachment to the liberties and independence of America, you are by 
these presents constituted and appointed Ensign of Capt Jacob Collins's 
Company in the Catoctin Battalion of Militia in 
Frederick County 

You are therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the trust reposed in you, by disci
plining all officers and soldiers under your command; and they are hereby strictly enjoined 
and required to obey you as their Ensign and you are to 
observe and follow all such orders and directions as you shall from time to time receive, ac
cording to the laws and constitution of this state, and the rules and regulations, which, under 
the authority thereof, are or may be established.  This commission to be in force until law
fully revoked.

G I V E N at ANNAPOLIS this 16th day of August anon domini 1781
Tho S Lee
Page 45

Payment to be made at 
Springfield Ills. by
J. B. Curran

Agent for paying Pensioners, in the 
Agency of 
Springfield

Payable on the 4th September and 4th 
March 

Recorded in the Pension Office on the 
Roll of Pensioners under act February 
3d, 1853, Page 195 Vol. A
R. McRae Clerk.
Page 46

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
WIDOW'S PENSION.
__________________

I certify that in conformity with the 2d section of the act of Feb
ruary 3, 1853,

Rachel Wood

widow of John Wood Senior 
who was a Ensign &c in the revolutionary war, 
is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of Fifty Six 
dollars and Sixty Six cents per annum, commencing on the 
3d of February, 1853, and continuing for life, unless she should again 
marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such 
marriage.

Given at the Department of the Interior,
this 6th day of August 
one thousand eight hundred and fifty three

R W Clelland
Secretary of the Interior

Examined and Countersigned
S. P. Waldo
Commissioner of Pensions.
Page 47

1,192
_____
Illinois

Rachel Wood
widow of Jno. Wood Sr.
who served in the Revolutionary 
war, as a Ensign &C

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate 
of 56 Dollars 66 
Cents per annum, to commence 
on the [struck out: 4th day of March, 1848.]
February 1853.

Certificate of Pension issued 
the 6th day of Augt 1853
and sent to 
Victor B Bell
Mt. Carmel
Wabash Co
Ills.

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act
[words struck out] 3 February 1853 Page 195 Vol. A
Page 48

Recd one 2 ct stamp EGC
St. env. retd. RWS

Pension Department 
Washington D. C.

Will you please give me 
the Rev. War record of 
John Wood Ensign, who 
is given in Saffels list 
of soldiers?  From either 
Maryland or Virginia.

I would like to join 
the D. A. R.

Is the Capt. John Wood 
given in Maryland 
Archives XX1 as belonging 
to the 14th Battalion of 
Malitia [Militia] of Caroline Co. 
the same man as 
John Wood Ensign.

Would like to find 
out if Rev. Blatchlery Wood M.D.
born in Iredell Co N. C.
Nov 5th 1797 is some
Page 49

connection.

Respectfully yours

Mrs. E. A. Arnsberger
413th West 7th St.
Larned
Kansas
Page 50

[Two panels]
[Left panel]

Revy WIDOW, &c.

File No. 2311
Rachel Wood
Widow
John Wood Sen.
Ensign Rev. War

Act: Feb. 3/1853 [illegible]
Index:-Vol. [illegible], Page 352

[ Arrangement of 1870. ]

[Right panel]

1915: Mch 2 History to Mrs.
E. A. Arnsberger. M.B.H.
__________
[Note: the year of the correspondence is illegible due to a black line running the length of the left margin]
Nov. 5 - Hist to Hon. L. C. Phipps
also advised as to price of 
photos- MMHF
Dec. 23 - Hist to Hon Arthur 
Greenwood & also advised 
of price of photos. MMHF
Jan 7 - Hon A.H. Greenwood 
[illegible] no other wife named 
claim etc. MMHF 
Jan 11 - Hon A.H. Greenwood 
[illegible] names of parents 
stated etc. MMHF
926. Sep 23. photos mailed 
to L.W. Jackman.
____________
929 Feb 8. [struck out: Hist ot] Tombstone 
data to Cemeterial Branch EWY
_____________
932-July 21-Hist to G. W. Courter
opy [remainder illegible] (EWY)
___________
933-July 20-hist to B J Walter
(EWY)
Page 51

State of Illinois County of Edwards} ss.
On this 30th day of November A.D. 1868. personally appeared before me Clerk of the County Court within and for the County and State aforesaid, Rachel Wood aged, Eighty five  years, a resident of Edwards County in the State of Illinois who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the identical Rachel Wood to whom was granted pension certificate No (no number on the certificate) payable at Springfield (now Autralia Illinois) at the rate of Fifty six dollars and Sixty six cents per annum under the Act of February 3, 1853. That Rachel Wood makes this declaration in order to secure the increase of widows pension to which she is entitled under the thirteenth section of the act of July 27th 1868.
My Post Office address is as follows Albion, Illinois. witness to mark
 W B Niles   L W Low    Rachel Wood X  her mark
Also personally appeared Jesse Emmerson, and William A Shelly residents of the county of Edwards, persons who I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who, being by me
Page 52

duly sworn, says that they were present and saw Rachel Wood make her mark to the foregoing declaration and they further swear that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of the applicant and their acquaintance with her that she is the identical person she represents herself to be and that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim
Jesse Emmerson
William A. Shelby

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 20" day of November A. D. 1868. And I certify that I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim. 
Waler L. Mayo  Clk
Page 53

This Rachel Wood was allowed 80 acres of bounty land 
under Warrant No. 34438, Act of 1850, on account of the 
service of her former husband James Bratton or Bratten 
who was drafted in Smith Co. Tenn. Sept. 20, 1814, served 
in Capt. James Tubbs co. Tenn. Militia for six months 
and on his return from said service died at Fort Deposit 
Tenn. on Apr. 6, 1815.

Her name before marriage was Rachel Greenhouse, she 
married James Bratton June 11, 1805 in Warren Co. Ky. 

She states in this bounty land claim that her husband 
John Wood died Nov. 11 or 14, 1832

No further family data in the above claim.

RW. Mar 2, 1915.
Page 54

Mount Carmel Ills
April 222nd 1853

Hon. Commissioner of Pensions-

Dr Sir

Enclosed please 
receive [repeated: receive] application of Rachel Wood, widow 
of John Wood Sr, who was a Revolutionary Pensioner 
for five years half pay under the recent 
act of Congress.

Please direct in reply to 
Yours very truly

Victor P. Bell
Mount Carmel 
Illinois
Page 55

85

Proof of continued [illegible]
culled from Aug 1868

Centralia
Page 56

Increase  1192

Brief in the Case of Rachel Wood, widow Jno Wood Senr.
Ensign Revolutionary War Albion 
Edwards County and State of Illinois 
Act 2d Sec. Feb. 3, 1853.
[note in right margin: Centralia]

CLAIM FOR NEW PENSION CERTIFICATE,

PROOF EXHIBITED, 

A pension roll of Illinois at $56.66 per annum.
Certificate returned
Claims increase as provided by Act of 
July 27, 1868.

Personal identity shown

Admitted Dec. 14 1868 a pension at $96. per annum 
to commence [struck out: Dec.] July 27, 1868 deducing payments 
since

Name and residence of Agent, | W. E. Trask
Rachel Wood | Examining Clerk.
Albion
Edwards Co.
Ill.
Page 57

Rachel Wood
Wid of 
John Wood Deced
$56.66
______

Died 14 Novr 1832
Page 58

Brief in the case of Rachel Wood Wid of John Wood Senr
of Edwards County and State of Illinois 
under the act 3 Febry 1853

Claim, ("original," or "for increase,")

Proof exhibited, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls?  If either, state the substance.

John Wood was a Revy. Pensioner under the Act of 
June 7th 1832 at the rate of $56.66 per annum and who 
died 14 Nov. 1832.

Rachel Wood his widow on the 21st June 1853
in the Circuit Court of Edwards Co. made appli
cation for a pension under Act 3 Febry 1853.
[Overwritten: If for increase] Marriage proven by Certificate on file Public Record.

Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim?  If so, what?

Death of husband by Cert of 3rd. Aud.
Identify and continued widowhood by parole evidence
Pension allowed at the rate of $56.66 per annum 
commencing on 3rd Febry 1853

August 5th 1853

Name and residence of Agent } Daniel M Cook
Victor P Bell Esqr } Examining Clerk.
Mount Carmel 
Wabash County 
Illinois
Page 59

April 29, 1853
_________
No. 1,751
Appl of Rachel 
Wood widow of 
John Senr

Illinois 18
_______

Act 3d Febry 1853

Revy.
Alld 5 Aug 1853 at $56.66
per annum from 3 Feby 53
D. M. Cook
Ex Clk

Victor P. Bell
Mount Carmel
Wabash Co.
Ills.

[illegible] Good }
Evidence full }

[Printed vertically right margin]
DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR,
Pension Office, Official Business
Page 60

Pension Office
29 July 53

This case is [illegible]
referred to 3d Auditor for 
date of death of Pensioner 
and of last payment

Very Respectfully
S. Cole 
Chief Clerk

D.M.C.
Page 61

John Wood, Act 7th June 1832 
Died 11th Nov. 1832, Paid to his 
death. F Burt
Auditor
Page 62

Var Good

Judge of Circuit Court 
Edwards Co, Illinois 
On the 21 April 1853

Married 7 Febry 1824 var
Certificate on file Public Recd.

Died 14 Nov 1832 Var
Cont, widowhood up to filing 
Death by Aud Certificate
Page 63

John Wood
Ensign
Maryland Line
_____

S. M. Knight 
Washington
Filed Apr 6/52 Ill  ad 52
Page 64

6769

3-2233
BUREAU OF PENSIONS
Finance Division

Sept 16, 1926

Chief Rev War [struck out: Division] Sect.

I have this day received from 
L.W. Jackman 
M.O. No. 461508
for $3.05, requesting 
photostat copy } as per
[struck out: post-office addresses]
letter herewith.

[note in left margin]
Ok 
& cy

1926 Sept. 23.
photos mailed 
& Financial Div.
notf. AW

O. J. RANDALL
Chief Finance Division.
[illegible initials]
Page 65

[Letterhead]

F. H. HAWLEY, PRES. & TREAS. | BLAKE McDOWELL, VICE PRES.
D. W. CRANE, SECRETARY | N. R. CHALFANT, ASST. SECY.

Agency
Ohio Farmers [outline of farmer] Insurance Co.
ORGANIZED 1848

VINCENNES AGENCY CO. of LeRoy, Ohio.
PHONE: 764W
WERKER BLDG., 418 1-2 MAIN ST.  
VINCENNES, IND.
[Rectangular mail receipt stamp]
FINANCE DIVISION
SEP 16 1926
BUREAU OF PENSIONS

September 13, 1926.

Mr. Winfield Scott, 
Commissioner of Pensions, 
Washington, D. C.

My Dear Sir:

I am enclosing herewith post-office money order 
for $3.05 to pay for [struck out: a] photostat copies of the papers 
filed in Pension Claim S. 32467, Allen Ramsey, Revolutionary 
War, also Claim W. 2311, Rachel widow of John Wood, 
Revolutionary War.  Please complete these as soon as 
possible and send to my address in this city.

Yours truly, 

L. W. Jackman

LWJ/MM
Page 66

[illegible page folded over] & 1812 Wars Section.

Sept. 10, 1826.

L. W. Jackman,
Werker Bldg.
418 1-2 Main St.
Vincennes, Ind.

Sir:

I have to advise you, that if you wish photostat copies of 
papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, S. 32467 of Allen 
Ramsey, the same will be furnished you at the rate of fifteen cents 
a page, with twenty-five cents extra for certification, if that 
is desired.  The number of pages to be copied is three.
[Numbers in right margin] 45 25

In the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 2311 of Rachel, widow 
of John Wood, the number of pages to be copied is fourteen.
[Numbers in right margin] 210 25

The proper amount should be forwarded to this Bureau by money 
order drawn to the order of the Secretary of the Interior, (not to 
the order of the Commissioner of Pensions).

Respectfully,

WINFIELD SCOTT,
Commissioner.
Page 67

[Letterhead]
[Page folded over]
BLAKE McDOWELL, VICE PRES.
N. R. CHALFANT, ASST. SECY.

Agency
Ohio Farmers [outline of farmer] Insurance Co.
ORGANIZED 1848

VINCENNES AGENCY CO. of LeRoy, Ohio.
PHONE: 764W
WERKER BLDG., 418 1-2 MAIN ST.  
VINCENNES, IND.
August 18, 1926.

Mr. Winfield Scott, 
War Section 
Bureau of Pensions.

My Dear Sir:

I note that you have the data of the service of Allen 
Ramsey born in Hartford County, Md., while serving in 
Washington County, Pennsylvania, as a Revolutionary War Soldier.
[Note in right margin] 3 pages S 32467

I note from your letter regarding the military record 
of John Wood that you make photo-stat copies of papers 
at 15¢ a page with a 25¢ change for a certificate and 
will ask that you let me know how many pages there are 
in the Allen Ramsey pension claim (there being fourteen 
in the John Wood) and I will send you a post office 
money-order covering the expense and have the work 
done at once.  As I understand it the fourteen pages 
for John Wood would cost $2.10 and certificate 25¢
making $2.35 for the service for Wood.  Please let me 
know if this is correct and how many pages there are in 
the claim of Allen Ramsey.
[Note in left margin]W 2311 Ned

Yours truly,

L. W. Jackman
LWJ/MM
[Oval mail receipt stamp]
[illegible] OF 
THE [illegible]
[illlegible]
U. S. BUREAU OF PENSIONS
Page 68

[Page folded over first three lines left side]
1-681 PHONE Branch 476

es regarding this job should refer to Requisition No. 9477

sition for Duplicating, Addressograph, Photostat and Blue Print Work.
_______

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR [illegible initials]
WASHINGTON

CHIEF, Division of Publications, 
Room G 127.  Sept. 18, 1926. 192
Please furnish work specified below.

Bureau ordering Pension Deliver to Room No. 5033

(ALL COPY FOR DUPLICATING WORK SHOULD BE PLAIN AND WRITTEN IN ELITE TYPE,
EXACTLY LINE FOR LINE AS IT IS TO APPEAR ON FINISHED JOB.)

Title and description of job photostat copies of 14 pages from the 
Revolutionary War pension claim, of John and Rachel Wood, 
W. 2311.

No. of copies 14 | Shall form be kept standing?  no  days

For further information see A. E. Wilson 5033 541
Room No. Phone No.

Approved:

O. L. Gaubriel | A. E. Wilson
Chief Clerk of Bureau. | Chief of Branch [struck out: or Division]

NOTE: No order made "SPECIAL" unless statement showing necessity is written 
below and approved by Chief Clerk of Bureau ordering

______________________________________________________________________________
[Oval receipt stamp]
DIVISION OF PUBLICATIONS 
RECEIVED
SEP 20, 1926
DEPT OF THE INTERIOR

CHECK WORK DESIRED
____________________
Duplicate

Multigraph single or double space?  Facsimile signature? 

Mimeograph one side or both sides?  Facsimile signature?
Folding once or twice?
Assembling
Stapling Once?  Twice?  Side?  End?

Electric typewriter  Fill in addressee?  Dated?  

Addressograph form lists
Envelopes, size . . . . . . . . .  | . . . . . | . . . . . | Cards, size . . . . . . . .  | . . . . . | . . . . .  
Proof list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . | . . . . . | . . . . . | Pay rolls . . . . . . . . . . . | . . . . . | . . . . .
Labels (submit sample) . . . | . . . . . | . . . . . | Corrections . . . . . . . . | . . . . . | . . . . . 
Fill in letters . . . . . . . . . . . . .| . . . . . | . . . . . | Tabulation sheets . . . | . . . . . | . . . . . 
all copies trimmed to size of largest 2.10
Photostat X Size actual Official use? Repay? $
Blue Print . .  Size . . . . . Official use? Repay?  $

Remarks
(OVER)
Page 69

AMERICAN LEGAION, Wabash Post No. 423
MT. CARMEL, ILLINOIS
[Seal of American Legion]

B. J. WALTER,
DEPT. OF MILITARY RECORDS
AND GRAVES REGISTRATION  Rev | July 7, 1933.

Veterans Administration, 
Bureau of Pensions, 
Washington, D. C. 

[Circular time and mail receipt stamp]
Arrow pointing at 3:30
RECEIVED 
JUL 10 1933
MAIL SUB. DIV.
VETS. ADM.
READER #65

Dear Sir:

Please furnish us with the pension record of 
John Wood, who served during the War of the Revol
ution, from the State of Maryland whom, we have 
been advised was pensioned while a resident of 
Illinois.

Very truly yours,

B.J. Walter
Dept. of Military Records 
And Graves Registration, 
American Legion,
Wabash Post #423.

BJW-MBD
Page 70

AMERICAN LEGAION, Wabash Post No. 423
MT. CARMEL, ILLINOIS
[Seal of American Legion]

B. J. WALTER,
DEPT. OF MILITARY RECORDS
AND GRAVES REGISTRATION  | July 17, 1933.

Veterans Administration, 
Bureau of Pensions, 
Washington, D. C. 
[Note written right margin]
ans - July
July 20-'33

Dear Sir:

Please furnish us with the pension record of 
John Wood, whose, widow, Rachael Wood, was pension
ed in April 1853, while residing in the State of 
Illinois.

[Circular time and mail receipt stamp]
Arrow pointing at 2
RECEIVED
JUL 19 1933
MAIL SUB-DIV.
VETS. ADM.
READER #55

Very truly yours,

B.J. Walter,
Dept. of Military Records
American Legion,
Wabash Post #423.

BJW-MBD
Page 71

New Orleans, La June 21, 1932

Director of Pensions
Washington, D.C.

Dear Sir:

I would like to get such information as you can 
furnish relative to Jno. Wood who was a Revolutionary 
soldier--an Ensign in charge of Frederick Co., Md. troops--
was born Nov. 29, 1754 in Cecil Co. Md. and died Nov. 14, 1832
in Wabash Co., Ill.

Also Wm. Simonds [Simon] of Rockingham Vt.-whose wife 
was Susannah Gardner.  He died about 1817.

Yours truly,

G. W. Courter
7818 Nelson St.
New Orleans
La.

[Circular time and mail receipt stamp]
Arrow pointing 11:15
RECEIVED 
JUN 25 1932
[illegible]
PENSION FILES [illegible]
Page 72

WAR DEPARTMENT
OFFICE OF THE QUARTERMASTER GENERAL
WASHINGTON

IN REPLY REFER TO QM 293.7 A-C | February 5, 1929.
Pension Office.

The Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C. 

Dear Sir:

In order that headstones properly inscribed may be furnished 
for the grave of the decedent named on the enclosed application, it 
is requested that you furnish this office the correct spelling of the 
names and complete designation of the organizations, with the return 
of the application as soon as practicable.

For the Quartermaster General,

Very truly yours,

J. McCLINTOCK,
Major, Q. M. Corps,
Assistant.

1 Encl.
Application -
Wood, John

[Oval mail receipt stamp]
REVOLUTIONARY & 1812 WARS
SECTION
FEB 8 - 1929
BUREAU OF PENSIONS

[Circular mail receipt stamp]
PENSION 
A
FEB
U. 7 S.
1929
OFFICE
Page 73

QM 293.7 A-C | February 5, 1929. 
Pension Office . 

The Commissioner of Pensions, 
Washington, D. C.   

Dear Sir:  

In order that headstones properly inscribed may be furnished  
for the grave of the decedent named on the enclosed application, it  
is requested that you furnish this office the correct spelling of the  
names and complete designation of the organizations, with the return  
of the application as soon as practicable.  

For the Quartermaster General,  

Very truly yours,  

J. McCLINTOCK, 
Major, Q. M. Corps, 
Assistant.  

1 Encl. 
Application - 
Wood, John
Page 74

[Letterhead]
ARTHUR H. GREENWOOD | COMMITTEES:
2D DIST. INDIANA |CENSUS
_____ | EXPENDITURES IN THE 
HOUSE ADDRESS: | WAR DEPARTMENT
WASHINGTON, INDIANA| Congress of the United States | INVALID PENSIONS
_____  | MINES AND MINING
JAMES H. USREY | House of Representatives
SECRETARY | Washington, D.C. |

December 30, 1925.

Honorable Winfield Scott,
Commissioner of Pensions, 
Pension Bureau,
Washington, D. C. 

Dear Sir:

In the claim of Rachel Wood, widow of 
John Wood, filed through her attorneys Birchett & 
Downing of Washington, D.C., for back pay of her 
husband in 1857, and Mr. Wood was supposed to have 
been an ensign in the Continental Line and enlisted 
from Maryland, and which you recently wrote to me 
giving me information on the subject, I am now 
advised the Mr. Wood's First wife, whom he married 
during or soon after the Civil War. [Rev]. If your records 
show that he had such first wife and your records give 
her name or any information relative to her, the date 
of his marriage to her and the date of her death, I 
would be pleased to have same.

Thanking you for your early reply, I am,

Very truly yours,

Arthur H. Greenwood. M.C.

[Oval mail receipt stamp]
OFFICE OF
THE COMMISSIONER 
DEC 31 1925
U. S. BUREAU OF PENSIONS
Page 75

[Letterhead] 
ARTHUR H. GREENWOOD | COMMITTEES: 
2D DIST. INDIANA | CENSUS 
_____ | EXPENDITURES IN THE  
HOUSE ADDRESS: | WAR DEPARTMENT 
WASHINGTON, INDIANA| Congress of the United States | INVALID PENSIONS _____ | MINES AND MINING 
JAMES H. USREY | House of Representatives 
SECRETARY | Washington, D.C. |  

January 8, 1926.  

Mr. Winfield Scott, 
Commissioner of Pensions,  
Washington, D. C.   

Dear Sir: 

In the Revolutionary War Claim, 
W. 2311, John Wood, please advise me what, 
if any, information is given relative to his 
father or mother.

Very truly yours,

Arthur H. Greenwood, M.C.

[Circular mail receipt stamp]
PENSION 
L
JAN
U. 9 S.
1926
OFFICE
Page 76

[Letterhead] 
ARTHUR H. GREENWOOD 
2D DIST. INDIANA 
Congress of the United States 
House of Representatives 
Washington, D.C. 

December 21, 1925.  

Honorable Winfield Scott, 
Commissioner of Pensions,  
Pension Bureau, 
Washington, D. C.   

Dear Sir: 

I am advised that Rachel Wood, widow 
of John Wood, through her attorneys Birchett & 
Downing of Washington, D.C. filed claim for  
her husband's back pay and allowances in 1857. 
John Wood was supposed to have been an ensign 
in the Continental Line and enlisted from the 
state of Maryland.

If you have these old records could 
you make a copy of the papers filed and the 
findings of the Pension Bureau in the case?
If so please do so and send it to me.

Thanking you for your early reply, I am,

Very truly yours,

Arthur H. Greenwood, M.C.

[Circular mail receipt stamp]
PENSION 
L
DEC
U. 22 S.
1925
OFFICE