Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W 21,010, Abel Dunning, Vt.
Page 1

(3-1776)
Service
Vt.
Dunning, Abel Maria
Number 
W 21,010
Contents
Page 2

New York 27714
Abel Dunning
of [ineligible] in the State of New York 
who was a private in the [ineligible] commanded by Captain [ineligible] of the [ineligible] commanded by [ineligible] Brookins in the Vermont line for 17 months private

Inscribed on the Roll of New York
at the rate of 56 Dollars 66 Cents per annum,
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 8 day of October 1832 and D Wright
Amsterdam NY

Arrears to the 4th of Sept 34                   198.31
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 March         28.33
                                                                 $226.64

      {Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832}
Recorded by Danl Boyd  Clerk,
Book E 2  Vol. 4  Page 17
Page 3

Let to Hon M. J. Bovee
Aug. 24th 1836
Same Apr 21, 1837
Page 4

3175
Albany

Maria Dunning
widow of Abel Dunning
who was a private
the Vermont Line

scribed on the Roll at the rate of 
56 Dollars 66
ents per annum, to commence on
4th day of March, 1843.

Certificate of Pension issued the
4
and sent to
day of December 1843
C. E. Jenkins
Albany
N York
Act of March 3, 1843.}
Book
Page 17
Page 5

FAMILY

DEATHS.

Josiah A Dunning
Sept 15, 1838
Page 6

RECORD
BIRTHS.

Polly Dummings born
October 25th 1792
Page 7

FAMILY RECORD.

BIRTHS.
Abel Dunning
was born July 12 1763

Miraih Dunnng
was born February 4, 1764

BIRTHS.
[illegible] Dunning
January 23 1845

Parissa Dunning
March 10 AD 1788

Henry W.D. [illegible]
June 11th 1796 at 5 o'clock in the morning

Josiah Dunning
July 6th 1798
Page 8

FAMILY RECORD.
MARRIAGES.
Eleanor Dunning
Born March 9th 1825

Gerard Dunning
Born March 26th 1826

Hannah M Dunning
Born June 4th 1827

James H. Dunning 
BornNovember 3th 1828

Sally A Dunning Born
March 26th 1830

Josiah A Dunning Born
August 15 At [illegible] AM
1836

John Dunning Born
March the 17 1838

Josiah Dunning Married
July 5th 1824

Sally A Dunning Born
November 17th 18?6
Page 9

TREASURY DEPARTMENT.
SECOND COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE,
Jan'y 26. 1854

Sir:
Under the act of the 6th of April, 1838, entitled "An Act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury of the United States, and the third section of the Act of August 23, 1842, extending the time within which pensioners may receive their pensions from the Pension agents,
the children of Maria Dunning dec
a Pensioner on the Roll of the Albany Agency, at the rate of Sixty Six Dollars 
and 66 Cents per annum, under the law of the
3 March 1843 have been paid at this Department, from the 4" of Sept. 1843 to the 17 Feb. 1844.
Respectfully, yours,
J.M [illegible]
Comptroller
3175
13
To the COMMISSIONER OF PENSIONS,
Present.
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State of New York
Fulton County ss:
On this thirteenth day of May Eighteen hundred & forty three personally appeared before me Joseph Blair a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Fulton County (the said
Court being a Court of record) Maria Dunning a resident of the town of Perth in said County aged seventy nine years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath
make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7. 1838 entitled "An act granting half pay & pensions to certain widows" That she is the widow of Abel Dunning who was a Soldier in the revolutionary army and a Pensioner under act of June 7, 1832 at $56.66 per annum. She further states that she was married to the said Abel Dunning in the month of January Seventeen hundred and Eighty four and that her husband the aforesaid Abel Dunning died on the sixteenth day of August Eighteen
hundred & forty one. That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place previous to the first of January Seventeen hundred & ninety four, viz
at the time above stated. She further declares that her surname previous to her marriage was Smith & that she was married in Pittstown Rensselaer Co. State of New York by a clergyman of the name of Halsted, But she believes that there is no record of her marriage in existence, and she has no family record of
it, & knows of no person living who was present at the marriage. That the annexed leaf or memorandum cut out of her family
Bible is in the handwriting of her [illegible]
and was made about thirty [illegible] years ago & contains a true record of the time of the births of her children
Sworn to & subscribed on the day & year above written before me
Joseph Blain Judge
Fulton County Courts
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I certify that the within named declarant is aged and infirm and in my opinion unable to attend Court.
Joseph Blain Judge
Fulton County Courts
State of New York
Fulton County Court [illegible]: Polly Dunning of Perth in said County being duly sworn deposes & says that she is aged fifty one years that she is the daughter of the within named declarant, that her father Abel Dunning
died on the 16th day of August 1841 & that her mother has remained a widow ever since his death. She further states that the annexed leaf or memorandum is one cut out
of her mother's family Bible [illegible] in the
the record of the ages of [illegible] her mothers' children and as
her brother Gerald Dunning [illegible] thirty six years ago
[illegible] is also out of the same Bible and
slip [illegible] Mich Dunning more than twenty
years ago and [illegible] near the time of her birth. Polly Dunning 
Sworn & subscribed in 13 day of May 1843
before me [illegible]
Joseph Blair Judge of Fulton County Courts
I certify that the above named deponent is a
credible witness
Joseph Blan Judge
Fulton County Courts
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State of New York 
Montgomery County
On this 20th day of September 1832 - Personally appeared in open court before the Judges of the Court of Common pleas of the County aforesaid now sitting 

Abel Dunning a resident of the town of Amsterdam in the County & State aforesaid aged sixty eight years on the twelfth day of July last who being first sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7, 1832 

That he entered the service of the United States as a soldier as a substitute for his brother Martin Dunning who is now dead - in the year 1776 or 1778 - and which of the two years this deponent cannot recollect.  Capt. Thomas Sawyer commanded the Company in which deponent served deponent does not remember the names of the other officers of said Company except some of the non commissioned Arthur Ellsworth and-- Cleveland were two of the Sergeants in said Company deponent entered the service in the fore part of the month of July and continued in service untill the month of September between two & three months- at the time deponent entered the service as aforesaid he resided in the town of Pownal in Vermont & entered the service in the town of Rutland in said State - the forces to which deponent belonged as aforesaid & whilst he was in the service had charge of a Picket fort at Rutland aforesaid
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in the year 1779 this deponent enlisted for two months in a corps of State Troops command by Capt Hutchins deponent thinks his Christian name was William. Capt Hutchins was from Bennington Vermont the names of the lieutenants in said in said company were James Brookins & Holmes. Deponent served in the United States service ten months in said Company he enlisted & entered the service in said company. He enlisted & entered the service in said company in the month of February as he thinks-- whilst deponent was in service in said company they were stationed about eight months at Pittsford in Vermont during which time a Picket fort was built at said place which deponent assisted to build. Ebenezer Allen was Major & commanded the forces at Pittsford about two months of the said ten & the latter part of the time this deponent & the said company were stationed at Castleton in Vermont - said company whilst at Castleton was still under the command of MajorAllen.
In the year 1782 again entered the service of the United States and served in a company commanded by Capt Jacob Lafford of Bennington Vermont. David Dincik was one of the Lieutenants & deponent thinks that Solomon Lafford was the other lieutenant in said company. The said Company whilst deponent served with it was stationed at Castleton in
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Vermont & guarded [illegible] fort there the troops stationed at Castleton at this time were commanded by Col James Brookins. & this deponent was hired by a [illegible] of men to serve deponent entered the service under Capt Lafford in the month of March as he thinks & he served the full term of ten months deponent resided in Pownal Vermont during the whole of the revolutionary war except when in service as a soldier 

In the year 1781 - as deponent thinks as to the year - he served in the United States service as a volunteer under Capt Josiah Wright of Pownal - Vermont & Such under him between one & two months deponent entered the service under Capt in the fall of the year the month not recollected Capt Wright’s Company whilst deponent served with it was stationed at Castleton in Vermont -  deponent thinks Col. Ethan Allen commanded the forces stationed at Castleton Vermont whilst deponent was there under Capt wright 

This deponent says he was in the United States Service as a soldier at other there during the revolution, than those above enumerated, but deponent cannot distinctly state the number of times nor the length of service - he served under Capt. Eli Nobles more than a month but the precise time deponent cannot state.
Page 15

deponent never received a written discharge he from the service.

Since the revolution deponent has resided for seven years in Clifton Park in Saratoga County & since that he has resided & now resides in Amsterdam Montgomery County aforesaid

To substantiate my claim for a Pension & corroborate my statement I refer to the depositions of Solomon Wright & Obadiah Durham of Vermont but who reside at to great a distance from Montgomery County that deponent cannot [illegible] their attendance in court but their depositions are annexed to this declaration - deponent refers to the Arthur Smith & Caleb Allen who reside in Amsterdam aforesaid & who are his neighbors to testify to my character for veracity & their belief of my having performed revolutionary services & having served as a solder 

& deponent hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present & declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any State 

Sworn to & subscribed the day & year aforesaid deponent was born in the New Milford Connecticut 

deponent has a memor and of his age taken from his fathers bible which he believes to be correct- Abel Dunning
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Sworn to & subscribed the day year aforesaid 
Geo: D. Ferguson, Clerk 

Mr. Arthur Smith & Caleb Allen residing in the town of Amsterdam & County of Montgomery in the State of New York - hereby certify & declare that we are well acquainted with Abel Dunning who has subscribed & sworn to the above declaration & that we believe him to be sixty eight years of age at last - that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution & that concur in that opinion.

Sworn to & Subscribed the day & year aforesaid
Arthur Smith
Caleb Allen
Geo. D. Ferguson, Clerk
I William Groom a clergyman of the town of Broadalbin certify that I am well acquainted with Abel Denney that he is a man of good character & that I concur in the statements contained in the above certificate of Arthur Smith & Caleb Allen- W. Groom
Sworn to & Subscribed the day & year aforesaid 
Geo. D. Ferguson Clerk
Page 17

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter & after putting the interrogations prescribed by the War department that the above named applicant was a revolutionary Soldier, and
served as he states. And this Court further certifies, that it appears to them that William Groom who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the town of Broadalbin, and Arthur Smith & Caleb Allen who have also signed a preceding certificate are residents of the town of Amsterdam, and are credible persons and seal the Statement of the said Williams, Arthur & Caleb is entitled to credit.
In testimony whereof have set my hand and seal of office the 29th September 1832

I George D. Ferguson, Clerk of the said
Court, do hereby certify that the foregoing
contains the original proceedings of the
said Court in the matter of the application
of Abel Dunning for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have
hereunto set my hand and
seal of office the 29th
September 1832.
Geo: D. Ferguson
Pension
Declaration for
Abel Dunning
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No 149.261
Abel Dunning, NY
Amended
D. Wright
D. Right Agent
Amsterdam
Montgomery County
New York
Page 19

WAR DEPARTMENT
Pension Office
183

Sir: The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. 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 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 Abel Dunning of Montgomery Co New York

Period when the service was rendered: Subs. 1776 
Duration of the claimant's service: Months: between 2 & 3
Rank of the claimant: Private
Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served: Capt. Thos. Sawyer
Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at present period: Pownal Vermont Aged 68
Evidence by which the declaration is supported: Tradition

Period when the service was rendered: Enlisted 1779
Duration of the claimant's service: Months: 10
Rank of the claimant: 
Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served: Capt. Hutchins, Lieut. Jas. Brookins, Lieut. Holme
Names and Rank of the General and Field officers: Major Ebenezer [illegible]
Country through which he marched: To Castleton Vt.

Period when the service was rendered: Enlisted 1782
Duration of the claimant's service: Months: thinks 10
Rank of the claimant: 
Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served: Capt. Jacob Lafford, Lieut [illegible], Lieut. Solomon Lafford 
Names and Rank of the General and Field officers: Colo Jas Brookins

Period when the service was rendered: Vol.1782
Duration of the claimant's service: Months: between 1 & 2
Rank of the claimant: 
Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served: Capt. Josiah Wright 

I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J.L. Edwards,
Commissioner of Pensions
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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 and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c. Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of Private Armed Vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged
in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
1. The Regular Troops.
2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.
3. Persons employed in the Naval service.
4. Indian Spies.
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons, claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will in the first 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.
Sate, Territory, or District of
County of
On this ____ day of ____ personally ____ appeared (a) before ____ A.B. a resident (b) ____ of ____ in the county of ____ and State, Territory or District of ____ aged (c) ____ years, who being duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) ____, with ____ and served in the ____ (e) regiment of the ____ line, under the following named officers: ____

Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged,
and the country through which he marched. This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.]

He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of ____.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
A. B.
(And then will follow the certificate of the Court,)
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I ____ of the Court of ____ do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of
the application of ____. 

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this ____ day of ____ & 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 ____ and C.D., residing in (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with ____, who has 
subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be ____ years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.

(And then will follow the certificate of the Court.)

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary
Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that A.B. ____ who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the
and that C.D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the ____ and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, ____Clerk of the Court of ____ do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of ____ for a pension.

I, ____ Clerk of the Court of ____ do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of ____ for a pension.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of officem this ____ day of ____ &c.

Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have 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
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3
will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition. If one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can 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.
6.{To a Soldier,} Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given and what has become of it?
{To an Officer,} Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?

7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution.

The Court will see that he answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.

The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons -one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from
their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify, to the character and standing of other persons, giving such certificates.

The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct
proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to 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 before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the 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 procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.

(a) The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
(b) The declarant must make his declaration 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 stat 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 engagements, the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil
pursuit.

(f) The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
(g) The opinion 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 public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.

Mode of authenticating papers.

In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any 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 their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.

The notes from (a) to (i) are all equally applicable in the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops, The proof required by rule in (j) note 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 22


Mansfield J. French
707 Sumner Avenue
Syracuse, New York
Dear Sir:
November 17, 1930
You are advised that it appears from the papers in the
Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 21010, that Abel Dunning
was born July 12, 1763 in New Milford, Connecticut.
While residing in Pownal, Vermont, he enlisted and served
as a private with the Vermont troops, as follows:
In July, 1776, as a substitute for his brother, Martin,
more than two months in Captain Thomas Sawyer's company; from
February, 1780, ten months in Captain William Hutchins' company
under Major Ebenezer Allen; in the fall of 1781, more than one
month in Captain Josiah Wright's company, Colonel Ethan Allen's
regiment; from March, 1782, ten months in Captain Jacob Safford's
company, Colonel James Brookins' regiment about one month in
Captain Eli Noble's company, no dates given.
He was allowed pension on his application executed September
20, 1832, at which time he was living in Amsterdam, Montgomery
County, New York.
He died August 16, 1841.
The soldier married in January, 1784 in Pittstown, Rensselaer
County, New York, Maria, the daughter of Thomas Smith. She was
born February 4, 1764.
She was allowed pension on her application executed May 13,
1843, at which time she was living in Perth, Fulton County,
New York.
She died February 17, 1844.
Page 23


In 1843 their daughter Polly was aged fifty - one years and
resided in Perth, New York, the sons, Josiah and Gerard were also
referred to.
The following names appear on a family record:
Gerard Dunning born January 23 1885
Clarissa Dunning born March 10 1788
Henry W. D. Hurrit? born June 11 1796
Josiah Dunning born July 6 1798
Polly Dunning born October 25 1792
Eleanor Dunning born March 9 1825
Gerard Dunning born march 26 1826
Hannah M. Dunning born June 8 1827
James H. Dunning born November 3 1828
Sally A. Dunning born march 26 1830
Josiah A. Dunning born August 15 1836
John Dunning born November 17 1838
Sally A. Dunning born Nov 17 1806 or 1816
Josiah Dunning married July 5 1824
Josiah A Dunning died September 15 1838
A careful search of the Revolutionary War records of this
bureau fails to show a claim for pension or bounty land on file
on account of the services of Richard or Richard W. Dunning.
Very truly yours
E. W. MORGAN
acting Commissioner
Page 24

Rev
WIDOW, &c.
21010
Maria Dunning
Widow of
Abel Dunning
Private Rev War
Act March 3rd 1848
,Index Vol APage 200
Arrangement of 1870
1917, Sept. 28. History to
Mrs. Frank N. Becker  
1930 Nov. 17. Hist to Mans
field J. French and
June 29. Mansfeld & French
35 Nov. 21. Photos mailed to
Mansfield J. French and 
account, Div. ntfd. AD.
Page 25

Revo
New York
Suspended act 7 June 32
letter 31 Oct 1833

C B Glevern
Hon C. McCoan
March 7. 1834
Pownal Vt
Page 26

New York- 7404
Maria Dunning widow of
Abel Dunning
who was a pensioner under the Act of 1832
and who died on the 16th August, 1841
of Fulton Co in the State of N.Y
who was a private in the company
commanded by Captain Hutchinsof
the
Regt. commanded by Col Brookins in
the Vermont line for 17 months
Inscribed on the Roll of Albany at
the rate of 56 -- Dollars 66
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of
March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12th day of
July 1843 and sent to Charles E
Jenkins Johnstown, N. Y
Whole amount due
$283.30
Act July 7 1838
Recorded by W M Stewart clerk
Book A Page 75
Page 27

Vt. Dunning, Abel Maria W 21,010
Page 28

Months & a like term under Capt Safford is that
there is no evidence in the department of any tour of actual uninterrupted service at the period and in the corps alleged the occasion for calling out that description of troops did not commence until about the last of May and terminated generally about the first of December"
How strong this negative testimony of the department is considered I know
not-- but I should suppose the utmost length
to which it could property be extended would
be a reduction of the except of time claimed and even the propriety of this may well be questioned when the reason assigned for doubting the statements
of three or four reputable witnesses under oath is that "the occasion for calling out that description of troops did not commence until about the last of May and terminated generally about the first of December" should there still remain an objection to the allowance of Mr. Dunnings claim may I request a return of his papers to me
J. L. Edwards, Esq
Com. Pensions

Yours respectfully
Com Pensions
Deodatus Wright
Page 29

Elias Halls applicant for Abel Dunnings Pension
Page 30

I Elias Hall of Castleton in the County of Rutland and State of Vermont of lawful age testify and say that I was a Lieutenant in Capt. Jesse Sawyer's Company and stationed in the year 1780 at Pittsford in said County from February of that year to December,- that I
then knew Abel Dunning now of Amsterdam in
the County of Montgomery in the State of New York and that he was a private soldier in Capt. William Hutchins Company, in Ebenezer Allen's detachment and served as a soldier in said Hutchins Company at Pittsford aforesaid the whole of the campaign of the year aforesaid and further say not
Elias Hall

Rutland County in October 10, July 1834.
Then personally appeared Elias Hall signer of the above affidavit will known to me as a man of truth and veracity, and made solemn oath that the facts stated this as true.
Before me S. H. Merrill Justice of the Peace
State of Vermont and County  Rutland County⎬ 

I Robert Puipoiet Clerk of the
County Court for the County of
Rutland certify that Selah Hewell
is a Justice of the peace for
said County duly commissioned
and that his signature above is genuine

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my
hand and affixed the seal of said Court at
Rutland this 10th day of July A.D. 1834
R. Puipoiet
Page 31

Maria Dunning
56.66[underlined]
C. E. Jenkins [illegible]
Albany
NY
Page 32

2860 July 24 1843
Maria Dunning
Maid  J [illegible]/49
N.Y.
James S Edwards Eg
Comm. of Pe[illegible]
[illegible]
Nashin[illegible]
Page 33

State of New York County of Fulton }ss
On this 18th day of July in the year on thousand eight hundred and forty-three before the subscriber, a [illegible] of [illegible] in [illegible] County
personally appeared Maria Dunning a resident of the town of Peth in said county, aged seventy nine years who being first duly sowrn, according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 3d of March 1843, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the revolutionary war.
That she is the widow of Abel Dunning who was a private in the Revolutionary War and a pension under act of June7. 1832 at 56 66 per [illegible] she is unable to [illegible] the name of the regimate, is [illegible] for proof of the
Page 34

Johnstown July 20, 1843

J.L. Edwards
Comm. of Pensions.

I herewith transmit to you the application of Maria Dunning, for a pension under act of 3 March 1833.

I am very respectfully
Your ob(edient) Servant
Chas. E. Jenkins
Page 35

I Obadiah Dunham, of Pownal, in the
County of Bennington, and State of Vermont of lawful age depose and say that Abel Dunning of the said town Town of Amsterdam, in the County of Montgomery and State of New York, formerly resided in the
town of Pownal in the County of Bennington,
and State of Vermont, with whom I had
an intimate acquaintance, and who was and
soldier in the Revolution. I recollect in the
spring or summer of 1776 that he was at
Rutland, Vermont, where he had taken the
place of Martin Dunning his brother. I was a
volunteer at the same time in a company of 
the Militia, that said Abel Dunning was in service and arrived at Rutland. I was there two
months and said Dunning was there during
that time and remained there after I left
that in 1778 or 1779. I saw the said Dunning at Pittsford, Vermont. He was there and enlisted soldier, as I understood for 10 months. A man by the name of Allen was Major commandant at that place. That toward the latter part of the war I saw the said Abel Bunning, at Castleton, Vermont, and understood he was an enlisted soldier, Lieut. Col. James Brookins, I think had the commands.
Obadiah Dunham
Page 36

State of Vermont,
Bennington County P. ⎬
Pownal, August 17, 1832, Then personally appeared Obadiah Dunham and after being duly examined and duly cautioned, made solemn oath that the within Deposition by him subscribed contain the
whole truth and nothing but the truth according
to his best recollection. Before me and that the said Obadiah Dunham to me well
known as credible witness and entitled to full confidence Before me
Beny Steves Justice of the Peace.

Certify that Obadiah Dunham the subscriber to the within explain to me well known is a credible 
witness.
Respectfully yours Justice of the Peace
 State of Vermont

To all to whom these presents, shall come - Greeting-
I hereby certify, that, Beny Stevens Esq. whose
Signature appears to the foregoing Deposition, was at the date thereof & Steves is a Justice of the Peace in & for the County of Bennington, duly empowered & qualified as such, to administer Oaths & c- & that I am well
acquainted with his hand writing, & believe his signature to be genuine-

In testimony whereof I Henry Robinson
Clerk of the County Court, in & for the
County of Bennington, have hereunto 
subscribed my name, I have affixed the seal of
our said Court at Manchester this 20th
day of August A.D. 1832. & of the Judge
presence of the United States the 57th-
Henry Robinson Clerk
Page 37

I Solomon Wright of Pawnal in the County
of Bennington & State of Vermont of lawful
age depose and say, that Abel Dunning who
now lives in Amsterdam County of Montgomery & State of New York formerly resided in Pawnal aforesaid. That in the winter of 1778 or 1779 the said Dunning enlisted as I understood to go on
an expedition to the North time cannot say for how long - That in the summer following, I was a volunteer in a Militia Company that went from Pawnal to Pittsford. I found the said Abel Dunning who was an enlisted soldier as aforesaid, and served as such while I was there
which was about two months. Dunning continued in service untill the latter part of the same fall or fore half of the winter as I understand.

I do not recollect the names of the officers of the Company in which Dunning served, but I recollect that Capt. Hutchins, Capt Sawyer & Lieut. Brooks were officers in service at that place.
Ebenezer Allen was Major Commandant I
served at the time under Capt Eli Noble and
several times after that the said Dunning was a volunteer in the Militia [illegible] a month or two at a time during the revolution, and a [illegible] & faithful soldier & further say [illegible].

Solomon Wright
Page 38

State of Vermont 
Bennington County 
Pownal August 19th 1832 Then personally appeared Solomon Wright and after being carefully examined & duly [illegible] made solemn oath that the within deposition, by him subscribed, contains the whole truth and nothing but the truth, according to his [illegible] recollection before me. And that the said Solomon Wright to us well known is a creible witness and entitled to full confidence.

 Benj. Burns Justice of the peace 

I certify that Solomon Wright the subscriber to the within deposition is well known is a credible witness.
Benjamin Stevens Justice of the peace 

State of Vermont 
To all to whom these Present shall come Greetings
I hereby Certify, That Benj Stevens Esqr whose Siganture appears to the foregoing Deposition, is as at the date thereof & still is a Justice of the Peace in & for the County of Bennington, duly qualified as such to administer oaths &c. That I am acquainted with his hand writing & believe his signature to be genuine.
In Testimony whereof I Henry Robinson Clerk of the County Court in & for sd County of Bennington, have hereunto subscribed my name & have affixed the seal of our said Court, at Manchester this 20th day of August A.D. 1832. & of the Independence of the United States the Fifty Seventh 
Henry Robinson Clerk
Page 39

Abel Dunnings
Amended declaration For Pension

See letter to O. Hungerford Sept 34

Admd
17 mo pri
$56.66
Page 40

Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the place of the town of Amsterdam & County of Montgomery in the State of New York Abel Dunning of said Town & County
who being duly sworn deposeth & saith that by reason of the long time which has elapsed and the consequent loss of memory he
cannot swear positively as to the precise
length of his service but he is confident and so positively swears that he did not serve less than two years & fifteen days in the revolutionary war as a private soldier in the militia & for that [illegible] deponent claims a pension June 29-1833-
Abel Dunning
Subscribed & sworn before me this 29 June 1833 -
Wm, Reid Justice of the Peace
The above named Abel Dunning is to me well known he is a man of good character & his statement entitled to credit. June 29 1833-

Wm, Reid Justice of the Peace
Page 41

State of New York
Montgomery County
Clerksoffice


I, George D. Ferguson, Clerk of the Court
of Common Pleas of Montgomery County, do
hereby certify that William Reid before
whom the within amended declaration purports to have been sworn, was on the date thereof a
Justice of the peace in for said County. And that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of said Justice & verily believe that the name of said Justice subscribed to the said within amended declaration is Genuine. As is also his name subscribed to the within certificate
of good character of Abel Dunning
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this
15th July 1833
Geo: D. Ferguson
Page 42

10,000
Maria Dunning
N, Y,
Act 7 July 38
sn 84 d 42
admd.
17 mo pri
56.66

Chas E. Jenkins
Johnstown
N. Y.
Page 43

State of New York}
Fulton County Clerk's office} ss
I Stephen Wait Clerk of the said County of Fulton do hereby certify that Joseph Blair the person before whom the foregoing Declaration of Maria Dunning, and the affidavit of Polly Dunning were on the thirteenth of May instant taken, was at the time of taking the same a Judge of the County Courts of said County of Fulton, Dwelling in said County and duly authorized to take the same, and further that the name of said Judge subscribed to the said declaration, affidavit, & certificates are his genuine Signature.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and affixed the seal of said County this 16th day of May 1843
S. Wait Clerk
Page 44

State of New York}
Fulton County} ss:
I Catharine Fuller of the town of Galway in the County of Saratoga being duly sworn depose & say that I am aged seventy two years that I am the sister of Maria Dunning the widow of Abel Dunning deceased a Pensioner of the United States - I further state that according to the best of my recollection & belief the said Abel Dunning was married to Maria Smith (now Maria Dunning & the widow of the said Abel Dunning) in the year 1784.  I was not present at the marriage, but was at my father's house Mr. Thomas Smith, in Pittstown Rensselaer County a short time before the marriage but went away about two weeks before they were married.  I heard of the marriage a short time after it took place & saw them a few months after they were married and have known them ever since and they have always lived together as man and wife.  I think they were married in 1784 as I was about thirteen or fourteen years of age at the time and have known them to have lived together from that time up to the period of the death of Abel Dunning aforesaid - I recollect the time of the marriage from another circumstance, that about a month after my sister was married, my Father moved to Saratoga County which was about fifty eight years ago -
her mark [hand drawn X] Catharine Fuller
Witness Chas E Jenkins
Sworn to & subscribed this}
8th day of May 1843}
before me}  Elisha Alvord Justice of the Peace 
I certify that the above named deponent is personally known to me & that she is a credible witness.  and owing to infirmity cannot write
Elisha Alvord Justice of the Peace
Page 45

State of New York}
Fulton County County Clerk's Office} ss
I Stephen Wait Clerk of the said County of Fulton do hereby certify that Elisha Alvard the person before whom the foregoing affidavit of Catharine Fuller pruports to have been taken, was at the date and time of taking the same Justice of the peace in & for said County duly selected and sworn dwelling in said County and duly authorized to take the same; and further, that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of said Justice and verily believe his name subscribed to the said affidavit and certificate is his genuine signature
In testimony whereof I have hereto set my name and affixed the Seal of said County this 16th Day May 1843
S Wait Clerk
Page 46

Free
M. J. Bacce

Hon J. L. Edwards
P. Office
Washington D. C
Page 47

Free
M. J. Bacce

Hon J. L. Edwards
P. Office
Washington D. C
Page 48

Amsterdam April 17. 1837
Dear Sir
I wish you to examine the papers of Eldert Jonda who was a  Lieutenant in the Revolutionary War - and state to me all the difficulties at large - & oblige your friend
Matthew J. Bacce
Hon. J. L. Edwards
P. S. by a letter sent from you in the case of Abel Dunning - you say he was allowed for 7 mo. at Castleton & 7 mo. at Pittsford - those time of servises [services] are 10 mo. each - you have the affidavit of one of the officers to that point
M. J. Bacce
H. J. L. E.
Page 49

Abram Dunnings Affidavit
For Abel Dunnings Pension
Page 50

I, Abram Dunning of Weybridge, County of Addison & State of Vermont, testify & say, that Abel Dunning of Amsterdam, County of Montgomery, and State of New York, an applicant for a pension, is my brother, - that I was sixty nine years old last March, and my brother Abel was seventy one years of age, on the 12th of July last, as appears by a transcript of my fathers family record from his bible into my own, and now in my possession.  My fathers family, including my said brother & myself resided in Pownal, in this State during the Revolutionary war.
In the year 1778, according to my best recollection, my said brother being then fifteen years old, went to Pittsford or Rutland in this State, as a substitute for my brother Martin in the military service, & remained in said service three months, viz - during the months of June, July and August.  This was upon the occasion of my brother Martin's return home to assist in haying & harvesting, and my brother Abel went to the place where my brother Martin was stationed before the return of the latter as above mentioned.
Page 51

The service above mentioned I am confident was not in the year 1776 - as stated in my brother Abel's declaration in the alternative, as I am informed - because my brother Martin went into Canada, as a soldier, in the fall of the year 1775, and did not return until late in the spring following; and had suffered so much during his absence upon that service, that he was in no condition to enter the service again immediately, but according to my best recollection remained at home during the remainder of that year.
In February 1780, my said brother Abel enlisted into the Vermont State service, for the term of ten months - that is, to serve until the end of that year, and was marched to Pittsford aforesaid, and remained there, in the service, as well as I can remember, until the expiration of the said term of his enlistment.  It was, I recollect, quite cold weather when he returned from that service.  He  commenced it I am confident, as early as March, because
Page 52

my own service of nine months in the following year was commenced the fore part of April, & I will remember that his service of the preceding year, continued a month earlier in the year than mine.  He went from home, I distinctly recollect, by sleighing.
And further the deponent saith not
Abram Dunning

Addison County ss.
Middlebury August 12. 1834
Then personally appeared Abram Dunning, signer of the above affidavit, well known to me as a man of truth & veracity, and made solemn oath that the facts therein set forth are true.
Before me
Edward D Barber Justice of the Peace

I certify that the above named Edward D Barber, is a Justice of the peace in & for the County of Addison aforesaid, and that the signature of his name, above is in his own proper hand writing
William Slade M. C.
Middlebury Vt. August. 12. 1834
Page 53

Round 1¢ post card with George Washington photo, overstamed with MAIL EARLY FOR CHRISTMAS

ROUND STAMP:
SYRACUSE N. Y.
NOV 22 836 PM 1935

ROUND STAMP
RECEIVED NOV 25 1935
MAIL SECTION
VETS ADM
READER # 23 

Mr. A. D. Hiller, Executive Asst.,
Veterans Administration,
Washington, D. C..
Page 54

Syracuse Aug 22, 1935
Mr. A. D. Hiller, Executive Asst.,
Veterans Administration,
Washington, D. D..
Dear Sir:- Referring to BA-J/MMHF:MLB
ABEL DUNNING W. 21010
Under date of Oct. 29 I received acknowledgement by K. C. Baxters Cashier of Veterans Administration of my remittance of $1.50 copying fees, 21542 M-O-70148-10-25-35 Receipt No. SD-10431, for photostatic copies of the records giving names of children of Abel Dunning and wife Maria in pension claim W.21010.  Not having received these records I am calling the matter to your attention.
Yours respectfully,
Mansfield J. French
707 Sumner Ave.,
Syracuse, N. Y..
Page 55

US POST CARD
ONE CENT  with photo of George Washington
Card has been stamped twice, one over the other  making it difficult to read

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

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section
Page 56

707 Sumner Ave., Syracuse, N. Y., Apr. 27, 1935.
Bureau of Pensions, Revolutionary War Section,
Washington, D. C..
Dear Sirs:
Is it possible to obtain a photostat copy of that portion of the original papers relating to pension application of Abel Dunning and his wife, Maria (W. F. 21,010 (?) ) that gives the names of their children and their births?  
I have a copy of the record "Henry (?) W. D. (illegible) b. June 11, 1796".  I wish to know just what is meant by the (?) and just what "W. D. (illegible)" mean.  If "Henry" is written over another name that is important to me.  Could it possibly be Richard?  Kindly let me know cost of photostat negative of simply the record of children in original.
Mansfield J. French.
Page 57

One stamped env. rec'd.
Stmpd. env. retd
Rev/ABH

Amsterdam, N. Y.,
Sept. 24, 1917.
United States Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.
Gentlemen;-
Would be pleased to receive copy of the Pension Record of Abel Dunning, probably Pownal, Vt. who received a Revolutionary Pension and died in 1841.  Would appreciate information as to how this might be obtained.
Yours very truly,
Edith V. Becker

Address:-
Mrs. Frank N. Becker
365 Division St.,
Amsterdam, N. Y.
Page 58

Veterans Administration,
Washington, D. C..
BA/MMHF:MLB
ABEL DUNNING
W. 21010.
Dear Sirs:
Referring to your letter of June 29, 1935, I inclose money order for $1.50 for photostat copies of the records giving the names of the children of Abel Dunning and his wife, Maria, on file in the pension claim, W. 21010, based upon service of Abel Dunning in the Revolutionary War.  I am especially eager to determine whether he had a son, Richard W. Dunning, and trust that, if his name appears, you will give me full information relating to him in addition to whatever may appear in the list of children of Abel Dunning.  Any other information in the records regarding this soldier, as to length of service, places of residence, etc., will be appreciated.
Yours truly,
Mansfield J. French
707 Sumner Ave.,
Syracuse, N. Y.

m.o. enc.
Page 59

707 Sumner Ave.,
Syracuse, N. Y.,
Nov. 7th, 1930.
Veterans Administration
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D. C..
In re:  Revolutionary war service of Abel Dunning.
Dear Sirs:
Abel Dunning, said to have been born in 1763, in Pownal, Vermont, son of Michael and Abiah (Kimberly) Dunning, is claimed by family tradition to have served in the Revolutionary War and that he received a pension as a Revolutionary soldier.  He died in August, 1841.
I have found in 1790 Census that Able (sic) Dunning was at that time living in "Town of Schnectady South of the Mohawk River", Albany Co., N. Y..  Have you any information that would identify this "Abel" as the Abel, born in Pownal and who was living in the vicinity of Perth, Montgomery Co., N. Y., at a later date?
I shall appreciate your kindness in giving me details of his service with names of places and persons and dates.  Also, I especially desire names of persons, places and dates mentioned in his application for a pension.
Does the name of Richard, or Richard W. Dunning occur in any of the papers?
I believe that the Abel Dunning who was born at Pownal, Vt., was the Abel Dunning reported by Lt. Col. John Peters of the Queen's Loyal Rangers regiment, reported by him as having been taken prisoner at Saratoga.  Now that I have written the above, I believe that I am mistaken; My notes indicate that the person was "Amos", not "Abel", reported by Lt. Col. Peters under date of Quebec, 14 Dec. 1780, as having been taken prisoner at Saratoga.  I believe this Amos to have been an older brother of above Abel, born May 24, 1752 at Newtown, Conn., before the family moved to Pownal, Vt..
Thanking you sincerely for your kindness in this matter, I am
Respectfully yours,
Mansfield J. French [handwritten}
Mansfield J. French. [typed]
Page 60

June 29, 1935
BA-J/MMHF:MLB
ABEL DUNNING
W. 21010
Mr. Mansfield J. French
707 Sumner Avenue
Syracuse, New York
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request photostatic copies of the record which gives the names of the children of Abel Dunning and his wife, Maria, on file in pension claim, 
W. 21010, based upon service of Abel Dunning in the Revolutionary War.
The cost of the copies which you desire will be $1.50.
Please make remittance by money order drawn to the order of the Treasurer of the United States.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
Page 61

BA-J/ady
Rev. & 1812
No. 286.
November 12, 1935.
Navy 970
Rev.&1812 Wars Section.
Rev. War claim for pension of Abel Dunning, File No. W.21010.
Actual 1 of each page
-NOT TO BE CERTIFIED-
$1.50............6 pages
Kindly leave margin of 1 ½ in. at top of each page and return papers in folder with corresponding name and number.  The word "omit" written in pencil on those pages which are not to be copied.
Chief, Rev.&1812 Wars Section

these were affid. of wid. dated May 13, 1843, both sides of sheet, on front page of which she stated that the annexed leaf on memorandum cut out of her family Bible etc. and the four pages of family record
Page 62

December 2, 1935
ABEL DUNNING
W. 21010
BA-J/MMHF:MLB

Mr. Mansfield J. French
707 Sumner Avenue
Syracuse, New York
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter received November 25, in which you state that you had not received the photostatic copies requested from the Revolutionary War claim for pension, 
W. 21010, based upon service of Abel Dunning in that war.
The records show that the copies referred to, for which you remitted $1.50 to cover cost were mailed to you November 21.  It is hoped that they have reached you by this time.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
Page 63

In reply to your request ................................., received ........................ for a statement of the military history of Abel Dunning a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (and his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.  W. F. 21,010.
DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT.
July 1776  or 78 sub for [illegible]
Feb. 80
Mch. 1782.
fall 1781.
LENGTH OF SERVICE.
Over 2 mos.
10 mos.
10 m
Over 1 mo
RANK.
Pri.
OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED.
CAPTAIN.
Thomas Sawyer
Wm. Hutchins
Jacob Safford
Josiah Wright
Eli Noble
COLONEL.
Maj. Ebenezer Elllen
James Brookins
Ethan Allen--See Vt Book P320
STATE.
Vt. 
Battles engaged in,  ✓
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Pownal, Vermont
Date of application for pension, Sept 20, 1832,  His cl. was al.
Residence at date of application Amsterdam, Montgomery Co. N. Y.
Age at date of application, B. July 12, 1763 New Milford Conn  He died aug. 16, 1841.
Remarks:  He married Jan. 1784 at Pittstown, Renselaer Co, N. Y. Maria, (born Feb. 4, 1764) dau. of Thomas Smith.  She was al. pension her ap. ex May 13, 1843 while a resident of Perth, Fulton Co., N. Y.  Children:  Gerard, born Jan. 23, 1885, Clarissa, b. Mch. 10, 1788, Polly b. Oct. 25, 1792, Henry (?) W. D. (illegible) b. June 11, 1796, Josiah, b. July 6, 1798.  She d. Feb. 17-1844  dec. Polly in 1843  51 yrs res in Perth N. Y.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.
Page 64

BA-J/MMHF/ady
Abel Dunning
W.21010

Mr. Mansfield J. French
707 Sumner Avenue
Syracuse, New York
Dear Sir:
You are furnished herewith, as requested, photostatic copies of the family record on file in Revolutionary War claim for pension, W.21010, based upon service of Abel Dunning.
The other papers in this claim have been examined and the name Richard Dunning in whom you are interested is not recorded.  It is suggested that the children who survived their mother may have received the pension due her and that their names might be obtained from the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office this city, by citing the following data:
"Maria Dunning, widow of Abel Dunning, Certificate No. 3175, issued December 4, 1843, rate $56.66 per annum, commenced March 4, 1843, Act of March 3, 1843, Albany, New York Agency".
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator