Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W 27389, James Wheaton Brayton, Privateer R I R.I. Sea Service
Page 1

(3-1776)
SERVICE
Privateer
RI
R.I. Sea Service
Brayton, James Wheaton
Roby
NUMBER
W27389
CONTENTS
[blank]
Page 2

21.588
Rhode Island
James W. Brayton of Providence in the State of Rh. Island who was a Carp. Mate [Carpenter's Mate] in the Comp. commanded by Captain Martindale of the Rgt. commanded by Col. Church in the Rh. Island line for
1 Yr. Car. Ma. $54
1 [Yr.] Private $40
[Total] $94
Clt. died 23rd Sep 1832 Certif. to Roby Brayton
Inscribed on the Roll of Rh. Island at the rate of 94 Dollars - Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued 28 day of Sept. 1833 and sent to Levi Haile, Warren
Arrears to the 4th of Ma./33 $ [illegible]
Semi-anl. allowance ending 4 Sept 33 [ink blot]
Arrears from 4 Mar '31 to 23rd September 1833 - $116.09
{Revolutionary Claim, Act June 7, 1832.}
Recorded by  G. C. Stiles Clerk, Book E Vol. 4, Page 122.
[left facing page]
Let to Levi Haile 30 March 1833
Duplicate Certificate issued and forwarded to Levi Haile, Warren  R. Island July 25, 1835.
Page 3

[tear at upper left]
[Rh]ode Island 2.130
{illegible]oby Brayton
James W. Brayton, dec
who died on the 25th of Sept 1832.
Bristol Co. in the State of Rhode Island who was a Carpenter's mate & private of the [blank] commanded by Captain Martindale of the Regt commanded by Col. Church in the Rhode Island for 2 years Carpenter's Mate & private
Inscribed on the Roll of Rhode Island at the rate of 94 Dollars _ Cents per annum, [to] commence on the 24th day of {March crossed through] September 1832.
{Certificate of Pension issued the 20th day of June 1838 and sent to Levi Haile, Warren, R. Island.
[Ar]rears to the 4th of March, 1838 $491.77
[se]mi-anl. allowance ending 4 Sept [1838] [$]47.00
[Total] $558.77
[Circular seal of the National Archives]
{Revolutionary Claim Act June 4, 18. Section the 5}
[Rec]orded by A. A. Elliott Clerk,
[Vol illegible] Page 82
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2231
Page 5

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7, 1832.
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations.
County of Bristol ss. On this sixteenth day of July A.D. Eighteen hundred thirty two personally appeared in open Court, before the Judges or Justices of the Court of Common Pleas, now sitting at Bristol within and for the County of Bristol in said State, James W. Brayton, a resident of Warren in said County of Bristol and State aforesaid aged seventy four years and upwards, who being first duly 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 the 7th 1832.
That he entered into the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated, viz.
He in the Spring of the year A.D. 1775 (the precise time he cannot now recollect) enlisted into the service of the Revolutionary War in Captain Sian Martindale's company in Colonel Church's Regiment for the term of eight months and served as a private soldier in said Company during said term of eight months in the vicinity of Boston; he marched in said company into the vicinity of Boston some time before the Battle of Bunker Hill. Benjamin Dierden[?] was Lieutenant and James Child was Ensign of said Company
After the expiration of said eight months service he enlisted on board of a Galley belonging to and fitted out by said State of Rhode Island called the Spitfire commanded by Captain Grimes and he served on board said Galley about twelve months in the capacity of Carpenter's mate. He went in said Galley to New York and thence up the North River and then had an engagement with the British ships called the Phoenix and the Rose; he then returned to New York and again went from thence up the North River in Company with two fire vessels and assisted in setting on fire two British vessels called Tenders; and thence returned to New York at which time the British landed on Long Island. He then returned in said Galley to Rhode Island. The British sent in two American vessels as prizes which was retaken by said galley while he was serving on board of her.
On or about the middle of December A.D. 1776 he enlisted into Captain Caleb Carr's Company in Colonel Archibald Cavany's Regiment in the Rhode Island line for the term of fifteen months and he served as a private.
[continued]
Page 6

soldier in said Company and Regiment during said term of fifteen months. He was discharged from said Company on or about the 18th of March A.D. 1778, when said Company and Regiment was discharged. He served in said Company about the shores of the Narragansett Bay, the principal part of the time at Tiverton, Bristol and Little Compton in said State. Lt. Col. John Topham was second officer of said Regiment; and said Regiment was attached to the Brigade commanded by Brigadier General Cornell.
He also served five months on board the Privateer General Stark Benjamin Pearce Commander, he cruised in said Privateer against the common Enemy and assisted in Taking several prizes.
He further declares, that he was born in Newport in said State of Rhode Island the eighth day of October A.D. 1757, and that he has no record of his age. He lived in said Town of Warren when he entered the service & he has lived in said Town since the Revolutionary War & now lives in said Town.
He voluntarily enlisted into said service. He received no written discharge from said service but was verbally discharged by the commanding officer at the expiration of each aforesaid terms of service. He has no documentary evidence of his service.
He knows of no person, but Nelson Miller, Samuel Miller, Samuel Hicks, Benjamin Cole & Jonathan J. Brown and John Sisson whose testimony he can procure, who can testify to his service. He is known to the following persons in his neighborhood who can testify to his character for veracity, and their belief of his service as a soldier of the Revolution, viz. Ichabod Cole and Ebenezer Luther, Esquire.
[Printed form with entries attached to the above document at the bottom]
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the Agency of any State.
[signature] James Wheaton Brayton
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
We, Ichabod Cole residing in the Warren aforesaid and Ebenezer Luther residing in (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with James W Brayton who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that we believe him to be upward of seventy four 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.
[signature] Ichabod Cole
[signature] Eben^r Luther
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
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 Ichabod Cole who has signed the preceding certificate, is a resident in the Town of Warren aforesaid and that Ebenezer Luther who has also signed the same is a resident in the Town of Warren aforesaid and are credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
I Ichabod Davis Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas do hereby certify that the forgoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of James Wheaton Brayton for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this 24 day of July AD 1832
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
Page 7

Declaration.
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7, 1832.
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations, County of Bristol ss. On this fourth day of March A. D. 1833, personally appeared in open Court, before the Court of Probate for the Town of Warren in said Court of Bristol, being a Court of record now sitting at said Warren Roby Brayton a resident of Warren in the County of Bristol  in said State; aged seventy three years and upwards, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June the 7th 1832, that she is the widow of James Wheaton Brayton, late of said Warren deceased, who at the time of his decease, was an applicant for the benefit of the aforesaid Act, and who in order to obtain the benefit thereof made his declaration on his oath before the Court of Common Pleas sitting at Bristol within and for said County of Bristol on the 16th day of July A.D. 1832 and which declaration, with the documents in support thereof, is hereunto annexed. And she, the said Roby Brayton doth further declare that according to the best of her knowledge and belief her late Husband the said James W. Brayton served in the War of the Revolution in the manner and during the period by him stated in his declaration aforesaid and that he served as a private soldier not less than one year and eleven months; & that he served in the capacity of carpenter's mate in the naval service about twelve months. and that he served five months on board a privateer cruising against the common enemy. And she further declares, that the said James W. Brayton died in said Warren on the twenty third day of September A.D. Eighteen hundred thirty two; and that she the said Roby Brayton  as the widow of the said James W. Brayton, deceased, claims a pension for his aforesaid service from the fourth day of March, one thousand eight hundred and thirty one up to the said 23rd day of September A.D. one thousand eight hundred and thirty two the time of the death of said James W. Brayton
She hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the Agency of any State.
Sworn to, and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid
[signature] Roby her X cross Brayton
Attest Samuel Randall Probate Clerk } Attest Simmons Cole
[Circular stamp of National Archives]
We John C. Welsh, a clergyman, residing in the Town of Warren aforesaid, and John Peace, residing in the same town, hereby certify that we were well acquainted with the above named James Wheaton Brayton
Page 8

In his life time, who has subscribed and sworn to the annexed declaration by him made before the Court of Common Pleas in the aforesaid County of Bristol on the 16th day of July A.D. 1832 and that we believe him to have been upwards of seventy four years of age at the time of his decease, that he was reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resided in his life time, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and we concur in that opinion. And we further certify that we are well acquainted with Roby Brayton, who has subscribed and sworn to the aforewritten declaration and that she is the Widow of said James Wheaton Brayton deceased
[signature] John C. Welsh
[signature] John Pearce
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court the day and year aforesaid
[signature] Auth Samuel Randall Probate Clerk
We John Salisbury & George Easterbrooks resident in Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations being duly sworn according to law, do testify and say, that we were well acquainted with James Wheaton Brayton late of said Warren deceased, who was subscribed and sworn to the annexed declaration by him made before the Court of Common Pleas in said County of Bristol on the 16th day of July A.D. 1832, and that he the said James Wheaton Brayton died in said Warren on the 23rd day of September A.D. 1832 and we further testify and say, that we are well acquainted with Roby Brayton who has subscribed and sworn to the aforewritten declaration and that she is the Widow of said James Wheaton Brayton deceased
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court the fourth day of March 1833
Auth [signature]  Samuel Randall Probate Clerk } [signature] John Salisbury [signature] George Easterbrooks
The Court hereby certify that John Salisbury and George Easterbrooks who have subscribed and sworn to the aforewritten deposition are credible persons, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Auth [signature] Samuel Randell Probate Clerk
Brayton, James W.
Page 9

And the Court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter and careful examination of the declaration of James Wheaton Brayton hereunto annexed which was by him made before the Court of Common Pleas in said County of Bristol on the 16th day of July A.D. 1832 and the documents thereunto annexed, that the said James Wheaton Brayton was a revolutionary soldier and served as he hath stated. And the Court further certify that it appears to them that the said James Wheaton Brayton died at Warren aforesaid on the 23rd day of September A.D. 1832, and that Roby Brayton, who has subscribed and sworn to the aforewritten declaration is the Widow of said James Wheaton Brayton deceased. And the Court further certify that it appears to them that John C. Welsh, who has signed the preceding certificate, is a Clergyman resident in the Town of Warren aforesaid and that John Pearce who has also signed the same, is a resident in the said Town of Warren, and are credible persons and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Auth [signature] Samuel Randall Probate Clerk.
I Samuel Randall, Clerk of the Court of Probate for the town of Warren, in the County of Bristol aforesaid do hereby certify, that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Roby Brayton, Widow of James Wheaton Brayton, deceased, for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal of office this fourth day of March 1833.
[signature]  Samuel Randall Probate Clerk
Brayton, James W
[circular stamp of the Archives lower right]
Page 10

209
v209
Roby Brayton
Widow of James W.
R I^d
adm^d
12 mo Carpenter Mate
12 [mo] private
[total] 94$
deduct - commence
24 Sept. 1832
Devi Haile
Warren
R. I^d
Page 11

Declaration.
In order to obtain the benefit of the 3rd section of the Act of Congress of the 4th July 1836
The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
Bristol County } ss.
On the tenth day of September in the year Eighteen hundred thirty six, personally appeared before me, Levi Haile, one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State, being the highest Court of Record in said State, and holding its sessions in each County of said State, Roby Brayton, a resident of Warren in the said County of Bristol in said State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations aged seventy seven years last May 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 4, 1836. That she is the Widow of James Wheaton Brayton, late of said Warren, deceased, who was a private soldier in the Army, and a carpenter's mate in the naval service, in the War of the Revolution. And she further declares, that to the best of her knowledge and belief, her said Husband, said James Wheaton Brayton served in the manner and for the several periods, in the War of the Revolution, by him stated in his declaration made on his oath before the Court of Common Pleas for said County of Bristol on the 16th day of July A.D. 1832 in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7, 1832 and that he served as a private soldier as therein stated not less than one year and eleven months, and that he served as a carpenter's mate in the naval service as therein stated about twelve months, and that she has been allowed a pension for the said service of her said Husband from the 4th day of March 1831 to the 23rd day of September 1832, the time of his death; and for the particulars in relation to the service of the said James Wheaton Brayton and the proof thereof she refers to the records of the War Department, to his said declaration now in said Department and the documents and proof thereto annexed, and to her declaration made in her application for said arrears of her said Husband's pension and the documents and proof thereto annexed now in the said War Department or Pension Office.
And she further declares, that she was legally married to
[continued]
Page 12

said James Wheaton Brayton on the [blank] day of December in the year Seventeen hundred seventy seven (before the last period of service of her said Husband), and that her said Husband the aforesaid James Wheaton Brayton died at said Warren on the twenty third day of September in the year Eighteen hundred thirty two, and that she has remained a widow ever since that period, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed. And she further declares that she was married by Charles Thompson then pastor of the Baptist Church in said Warren. That she cannot recollect the precise day of the month of December 1777 on which she was married but is positive it was in that month of that year; that her maiden name was Roby Easterbrooks, and that she has no certificate or record of her marriage, that her marriage was neglected to be recorded and that the said Clergyman who married her is now dead; and she further declares that she distinctly recollects that her said Husband was in the service as a private soldier in Capt Caleb Carr's Company in Col. Carary's Regiment of the Rhode Island line at the time of her said marriage and that he continued to serve in said company until the month of March following
[signature] Roby her X cross Brayton
On this tenth day of September A.D. Eighteen hundred thirty six, as aforesaid, the above written declaration was sworn to by the above named Roby Brayton, and she subscribed her cross thereto, being unable to write her name, before me, the subscriber. And I hereby certify that the said Roby Brayton the above named Applicant, cannot from bodily infirmity attend before any Court of Record in said County of Bristol, to make her declaration. And I further certify that I am well acquainted with said Roby Brayton and that she is a credible person and her declaration is entitled to credit.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court
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2231
Roby Brayton, Widow of
Jas W. Brayton
R.I
died 23 Sept 1832
W.C.E
the requirements in this 2, 3, 5, 11, 12, 14 & 16 interrogatories not complied with
Carpenter mate navy - 12 mos
Private 12 [mo]
[total] 24
$6.50 per month as Carpenter mate
Levi Haile
Warren
R I.
Page 14

2231
Brief in the case of James W. Brayton of Warren Bristol Cy in the State of Rhode Island
(Act 7 June, 1832.)
1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? a Court
2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily injury? -
3. How old is he? 74
4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed.
[Table]
[Headings] / Period. / Duration of Service. / Rank. / Names of General and File Officers under whom he Served. /
[Row 1] / In 1777 - Spring of / 8 [Months] / private / Capt Martindale Col Church / 
[Row 2] / At the expiration of above service / about 12 [months] / Carpenter's mate / on board Galley Spitfire Capt. Grimes / 
[Row 3] About Middle of Dec^r '76 [footnote]/ 15 [Months] / private / Capt Caleb Carr Col. Cavary / 
[Row 4] Does not say when / 5 [Months] / [private] / Privateer Genl Stark Capt. Pearce / 
[End of Table]
5. In what battles was he engaged? An engagement with 2 British Ships, the Phoenix & the Rose
6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Newport
7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? No living witness no document
8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? No Clergyman certificate
I Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
[signature] W. C. Easton
Examining Clerk
[footnote] dischg^d about 18 March 1778
Page 15

August 18, 1933.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
BA-J/ADY
Mrs. C. L. Carpenter
17 Medfield Street
Worcester, Massachusetts
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter relative to James
Wheaton Brayton, Japheth Corttis and Robert Bailey,
soldiers of the Revolutionary War.
You are furnished herewith on separate sheets the
histories of James Wheaton Brayton, W. 27389, and Japheth
Corttis, W. 17649, as found in the papers on file in the
Revolutionary War pension claims based upon their military service
in that war.
As a means of identifying the record of a particular
Robert Bailey, in whom you are interested, should it be
on file, as much as possible of the following data are
essential: approximate dates of birth and death, places of
residence at enlistment and after service and given name
of widow.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator.
Page 16

James Wheaton Brayton
W. 27389
The data given below were obtained from the papers
on file in the Revolutionary War claim for pension,
W. 27389, based upon the military service of the above
named soldier in that war.
James Wheaton Brayton was born October 8, 1757 in
Newport, Rhode Island, and was left an orphan when very
young. The names of his parents are not given.
While a resident of Warren, Rhode Island, he enlisted
in the spring of 1775 and served eight months as a private
in Captain Sion Martindale's Company, Colonel Church's
Rhode Island Regiment. At the expiration of this service
he entered on board the galley, Spitfire, Captain Grimes,
commander, served twelve months as carpenter's mate, and
was in an engagement with the British ships, the Phoenix
and the Rose. He then enlisted, served fifteen months as a
private in Captain Caleb Carr's Company, Colonel Archibald
Crary's Rhode Island Regiment and was discharged March
16, 1778. He entered, date not stated, on board the
privateer General Stark, Benjamin Pearce, commander, served
five months and assisted in taking several prizes.
Pension was allowed on his application executed
July 16, 1832 while a resident of Warren, Bristol County,
Rhode Island.
He died September 23, 1832 in Warren, Rhode Island.
Soldier married December 12, 1777, Roby or Robe
who was born in May 1759, place not stated. They were
married at the home of her father, William Easterbrooks,
in Warren, Rhode Island. The name of her mother is not shown.
She was allowed pension on her application executed
March 4, 1833 while a resident of Warren, Rhode Island,
James Wheaton Brayton and Roby Easterbrooks Brayton
had eight children, the only names stated were Benjamin
Brayton, the oldest child, who was a resident of Warwick,
Kent County, Rhode Island, in 1838; William Brayton and
Patience Brayton they were residents of Warren, Rhode
Island, in 1838.
Page 17

The widow, Roby Brayton, had a sister, Sarah Burden,
a resident of Warren, Rhode Island, and seventy-one
years old in 1836. Nelle or Nelley West, a sister
of the widow, was born April 27, 1760, place not stated,
and was living in Bristol, Bristol County, Rhode Island,
in 1838. Elizabeth Harding, a sister of the widow, was born in January 1771, place not stated, and was residing
in Warren, Rhode Island, in 1838.
Date of
widow's death
not on AB
Page 18

Revy
Widow, &c.
File No. 27389
Roby Brayton
wid of
James W. Brayton
Pri Rev War
Act July 4th 1836.
Index: Vol A, Page 93
[Arrangement of 1870.]
[facing page to the left]
Oct. 25 1900 Hist to Capt. E. D. Hadley Des Moines Ia
Mch 10 - 1903. Hist. to Mrs. Mary V. D. Hudson
Edgewood R.I.
Mch. 17 - 1903 Hist [illegible] Rhodes Prov, RI.
Feby 14 1905 Hist to Mrs. A. D. Burdick
Westerly, R.I.
1913 Sept 23 Hist. to Mr. M. L. Brayton M.B.H.
1913 Dec. 26: Hist to Mrs Edith S. Seymour. MBH
1914. Apr. 16: Hist to Rachel M. Miller M.B.H.
[facing page to the right]
1915 Feb 8: history to Mrs. Mary V. D. Hudson
1916 Apr 6 History to Mr. LeRoy S. Sanford MBH
1933 Aug. 18. Hist to Mrs. C. L. Carpenter. A.D.Y.
Page 19

R. Island
Roby Brayton
widow of James W.
[illegible]
See letter to Levi Haile
9 Nov. 1836
to same 9 Nov^r 1837
Hon. T. Burgess, Feb 8, 1838.
Page 20

[envelope]
[stamped] Warren R. I. JUL 1[illegible]
[written over stamp] July 20
[address to]
J. L. Edwards Esquire
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Pension Office
Washington
D.C.
[stamped] FREE
[faint handwriting]
Nathan
Attention
W. Burdine write please
issue Duplicate Certificate immediately
[illegible]
Page 21

[envelope]
[stamped] Warren R.I. Mar 27
[written by stamp] Mar 30 RI
Hon. Lewis Cass
Secretary of War
Pension Office
Washington,
D.C.
[stamped] FREE
Page 22

Warren Rhode Island, March 26th 1835.
Hon. Lewis Cass Secretary of War
Sir, James W. Brayton of this town, a Revolutionary Soldier, made his declaration before the Court of Common Pleas in the County of Bristol in this State, July 16th 1832, claiming a pension under the Act of Congress passed June 7, 1832, and at his request I transmitted to the pension office the documents in support of his claim. These documents were returned to me with the objections noted: before the receipt of them however on the 23rd of September 1832 said Brayton died. On the 4th of March 1833 Roby Brayton Widow of said James W. Brayton made a declaration before the Court of Probate in this town for the arrears of pension claimed by her said Husband from the 4th of March 1831 to the time of his death.
This declaration, with affidavits to prove the decease of said James W. Brayton and that said Roby Brayton was his Widow, with additional testimony in support of said claim, together with said documents were transmitted to your department directed to the pension office. Mrs. Brayton has not yet been informed of your decision upon this claim. She is in very destitute circumstances, and her Husband was here reputed to have been a very meritorious Soldier of the Revolution, and his services are proved by the testimony of witnesses of unquestionable veracity.
You will confer a great favor upon Mrs. Brayton by informing me whether her claim is adjudged by you to be within the provisions of said Act, and if so what objections there are to the allowance of said claim.
With high consideration
I am very respectfully 
Your obt. servt.
[signature] Levi Haile
Page 23

[envelope]
[stamped] Providence R. I. JAN 27
[written above stamp] Ins - at - Jan 31. R.I.
Hon. James L. Edwards Esquire
Washington
D.C.
Brayton
Page 24

Providence Jan 25th 1838
Hon J L Edwards
Dear Sir
James W. Brayton late of Warren in this State was when alive a Revolutionary pensioner at $90 a year
His Widow Roby Brayton has petitioned for a pension & all the proofs are as I understand in your Department. I am requested to enquire why there is no answer to this application - Do have the goodness to inform me
With high respect
Your Obt Sv
[signature] Tristam Burges
Page 25

Warren, Rhode Island July 16th 1835.
Sir.
In answer to my letter addressed to the Honorable Secretary of War, relative to the application of Roby Brayton, Widow of James W. Brayton, late of this Town deceased, for a pension, your letter has been received, in which you state that "a pension certificate in favor of Roby Brayton Widow of James W. Brayton, appears to have issued on the 28th of September 1833 and was transmitted to Levi Haile Warren Rhode Island."
This certificate has never been received by me, or Mrs. Brayton. Since the reception of your letter I have inquired of J. L. Hodges Esq. the pension clerk at Providence, and find that a report from your department of the granting of said pension has been received by him but that the certificate has never been presented for payment to the agency at Providence. In some instances pension certificates directed to pensioners in Rhode Island have been miscarried and have subsequently been transmitted to the Clerk of the U.S. District Court for this District. I have inquired of him but he has not received the certificate. I am therefor led to the conclusion that the certificate is lost and in behalf of Mrs. Brayton I would respectfully request, that a duplicate certificate might be issued: or that you would give such instruction to the Agency at Providence as will enable Mrs. Brayton to receive her pension.
I send to you enclosed the affidavits of Mrs. Brayton and myself in support of the statement that we have not received said certificate: and by reference to the reports by the Agency at Providence to your department, you will perceive, that the pension has not been paid.
Very Respectfully
Your obedt. Servt.
Levi Haile
J. L. Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.
Page 26

A Pension Certificate was issued to Roby Brayton widow of James W. Brayton dec^d on 28 Sept 1832 & a duplicate certificate on 20 July 1835 for 94$ per an from 4 July 1831 to 23 Sept 1832 - The payment was no doubt made in the 3rd Quarter of 1835 at R. Island.
GMC [?]
Page 27

263.
83.33
[total] 180.

1071.54
18.18
[total] 963.36

514.47
786.72
138.36
563.73
[total] 1844.42
[in margins]
25
27
[total] 62

33
62
73
36
Page 28

Warren, Rhode Island September the 19th 1836
Sir,
At the request of Sarah Eddy, Roby Brayton, Elizabeth Cole and Anna Short of this Town, I herewith transmit to you their declarations with the proof annexed in support of their claims for pensions, under the Act of Congress of July 4th 1836. These Applicants have endeavored to comply with the rules prescribed and adopted to carry into effect said Act of Congress, as nearly as practicable. From the peculiar nature of the service it was not in their power to state the precise time when their Husbands entered and left the service, but they hope that the proof of the actual service for sufficient length of time will be satisfactory. In regard to the official acts of the Town Clerk and Probate Clerk, you are probably aware that by the laws of this State the Town Clerk is ex officio Clerk of the Court of Probate for the same Town, and being appointed by the freemen of the Town there is no evidence of his appointment but his own record, and no officer authorized by law to certify his appointment. He has therefore verified his official act, by his own affidavit, being the best evidence which can be furnished.
Very Respectfully 
Your Obedt. Servt.
[signature] Levi Haile
J.L. Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions Washington
Page 29

I Roby Brayton, of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island, being sworn according to law, do testify and say, that I am the Widow of James W. Brayton, late of said Warren, deceased, a revolutionary soldier, who at the time of his decease, was an applicant for a pension under the Act of Congress of the 7th June 1832; and that after the decease of the said James W. Brayton, I as his widow applied to the War Department for the arrears of the pension claimed by my said Husband up to the time of his decease; and that, although I have been informed that said application was granted, I have not received any pension certificate, nor the arrears of said pension.
[signature] Roby her X cross Brayton
Sworn and Subscribed to before me this second day of July
A.D. 1835
[signature] Samuel Randall Justice of the Peace
I Levi Haile, of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island &c. being sworn according to law, do testify and say, that at the request of the above named Roby Brayton Widow of James W. Brayton late of said Warren deceased, a revolutionary Soldier, I transmitted to the War Department by mail the papers and documents in support of the claim of said Roby Brayton for the arrears of the pension claimed by said James W. Brayton up to the time of his decease, under the Act of Congress of the 7th of June 1832; and that I have never received any pension certificate for said Roby Brayton.
[signature] Levi Haile
Sworn and subscribed to before me this Secondery day of July A.D. 1835.
[signature] Samuel Randall Justice of the Peace
Page 30

State of Rhode Island
County of Bristol } sc.
I William Bradford Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in the County aforesaid, being a Court of Record, do hereby certify, that Samuel Randall is a Justice of the Peace in the Town of Warren in the County aforesaid, was appointed by the General Assembly, and commissioned by the Governor of this State, bearing date the fourteenth day of May 1835 - and is fully authorized to act in his capacity And that his signature written under the annexed certificate is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Bristol this second day of July one thousand eight hundred and thirty five.
[signature] Wm. Bradford Clk
[partial seal to the left]
Page 31

Warren, Rhode Island March 15th 1838.
Sir,
At the request of Mrs. Roby Brayton of this Town Widow of James W. Brayton, deceased, I herewith transmit to you additional evidence in support of her claim for a pension. It is presumed, that this evidence will satisfy the Department that the alleged period of the marriage is proved. The characters of the witnesses for truth and veracity are unimpeachable and they state such reasons for their recollection as will leave no ground for doubt on account of the imperfection of human memory. The testimony will show the new existence of record evidence of the marriage so far as a negation is capable of proof. The reason that no family register of the marriage was made at the time of its celebration may be discovered in the fact that neither of the parties could at that time write. And by referring to the record evidence of the birth of the oldest Son and comparing that with the period of the marriage a reason will readily occur why the Father, from motives of delicacy after he learned to write should omit to record his marriage. Mrs. Brayton's circumstances are such as to render it undeniable that she should receive as soon as practicable, whatever she is by law justly entitled to and she would therefore respectfully ask your attention to the examination of the evidence & a decision on her claim as soon as your convenience will permit.
Very Respectfully yours
obedt. servt.
[signature] Levi Haile
J.L. Edwards Esqr.
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 32

Affidavit to be used in the application of Roby Brayton for a pension.
I Roby Brayton resident in Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations being in the seventy eighth year of my age, and being sworn according to law, do testify and say, that I am the Widow of James Wheaton Brayton late of said Warren, deceased, who served as a private soldier in the Army and as Carpenter's mate in the Naval service in the War of the Revolution and that I am an applicant for a pension for the services of my said Husband under the Act of Congress of July the 4th 1836; and I further testify that I was lawfully married to said James Wheaton Brayton on the [blank] day of December in the year Seventeen hundred seventy seven, (the precise day of the month I cannot now recollect) by Rev. Charles Thompson who was at that time Pastor of the Baptist Church in said Town of Warren, and that my maiden name was Roby Easterbrooks, and that I have remained the Widow of said James Wheaton Brayton and unmarried ever since his decease as stated in my declaration in my said application for a pension. And I further testify that I have not any certificate of my said marriage and that my said marriage was not recorded in the records of marriages for said Town of Warren as appears by the certificate of said Town Clerk hereto annexed, and I further testify that said Charles Thompson died many years ago and did not to my knowledge leave any record of our marriage or of any marriages by him solemnized; that I have searched and inquired and have caused diligent search and inquiry to be made among the Relatives of said Charles Thompson and other persons but have not found & cannot find any record of my said marriage
[signature] Roby her X cross Brayton
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
County of Bristol } ss.
In Warren, February the 18th 1837.
Then the above named Roby Brayton personally appearing before me the Subscriber, one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State, and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the above written affidavit, to which she subscribed her cross in my presence being unable to write her name. And I hereby certify, that I am well acquainted with said Roby Brayton, that she is a credible person and her statement is entitled to credit.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court
Page 33

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations } Town Clerk's Office in the Town of Warren, February 15th 1837.
I the subscriber, town Clerk of said Town of Warren do hereby certify that I have carefully examined the records of Marriages in my Office and do not find any record of the marriage of James Wheaton Brayton late of said Warren, deceased, to his wife Roby Easterbrooks or to any other person.
And I further certify that the record of marriages in this office is very imperfect especially during the period of the War of the Revolution: many of the marriages during that period are not recorded.
[signature] Samuel Randall Town Clerk.
I the above named Samuel Randall being sworn according to law do testify and say that I am the Town Clerk of said Town of Warren, and am legally qualified to officiate in said capacity, and that the above written certificate by me signed as Town Clerk is true.
[signature] Samuel Randall
The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
County of Bristol } ss.
In Warren February the 15th A.D. 1837.
Then the above named Samuel Randall personally appearing before me the Subscriber one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State, and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the above written affidavit, to which he subscribed his name in my presence. And I hereby certify, that I am well acquainted with said Samuel Randall, that he is a credible person and his statement is entitled to credit.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court.
Page 34

The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
County of Bristol } ss.
I Greenwood Reynolds Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State in the County aforesaid, being the highest Court of record in said State, do hereby certify that Levi Haile, at the times of taking the annexed affidavits, was and now is one of the Justices of said Supreme Judicial Court appointed by the General Assembly and commissioned by the Governor of said State, and then was and now is fully authorized to act in his said capacity, and that the signature of said Levi Haile written under the several certificates hereunto annexed is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Bristol this thirtieth day of August A.D. one thousand eight hundred and thirty seven. - 
[signature] Greenwood Reynolds Clerk
[seal with ribbon affixed to left]
Page 35

I Nelley West of Bristol in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island & c., being sworn according to law do testify and say, that I am in the seventy eighth year of my age & shall be seventy eight years old if I should live until the 27th day of next month, and that I am the Sister of Roby Brayton, of Warren in said County and State, Widow of James Wheaton Brayton late of said Warren, deceased, and I further testify that I was personally present and saw my said Sister Roby Brayton, whose maiden name was Roby Easterbrooks married to said James Wheaton Brayton by Rev. Charles Thompson in the month of December seventeen hundred seventy seven; I cannot now recollect the day of the month. They were married at the House of my Father William Easterbrooks, deceased, in said Warren. I recollect distinctly that it was in the month of December, and am positive that it was in the year seventeen hundred seventy seven; for I recollect it was in the month of December next before the time when the British troops came to said Warren & burnt the meeting house & other buildings, which was in May in the year seventeen hundred seventy eight. I was in Warren when said British Troops came to Warren as aforesaid, and I assisted to put out the fire, & was pursued in the street by one of the enemy. I recollect that said James W. Brayton came home from the Army to be married, & returned again to the Army after his marriage as I then understood; and said James W. Brayton continued absent from home & serving in the Army as I understood until the month of March following his marriage. I recollect, that Benjamin Brayton oldest son of said James & Roby Brayton was born after said marriage while said James W. Brayton was absent from home serving in the Army. There was no record of said marriage in my Father's family nor in the family of said James W. Brayton to my knowledge; and I
[continued]
Page 36

never saw or heard of any record of said marriage.
I lived in the house with my said sister after her marriage.
[signature] Nelley her X cross West
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations County of Bristol } ss.
In Bristol March the 13th 1838. Then the above named Nelley West personally appearing before me, the Subscriber, one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State, and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the aforewritten deposition to which she subscribed her cross in my presence being unable to write her name. And I hereby certify that I am acquainted with said Nelley West, that she is a credible person, and her statement is entitled to credit.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court
Page 37

The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
County of Bristol } ss.
I Greenwood Reynolds Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State in the County aforesaid being the highest Court of record in said State, do hereby certify that Levi Haile is one of the Justices of said Court duly appointed by the General Assembly and commissioned by the Governor of this State and is fully authorized  to act in his said capacity. And that his signature written under the several certificates of [illegible] of depositions and affidavit hereunto annexed is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Bristol this thirteenth day of March one thousand eight hundred thirty eight.
[signature] Greenwood Reynolds Clerk
[seal affixed to left]
Page 38

I John Sisson of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations of the age of seventy four years & upwards, on solemn oath do testify and say, that I enlisted on the 16th of March A.D.1777 into Captain Caleb Carr's Company in Colonel Archibald Carary's [Crary] Regiment of the Rhode Island line and served in said Company for the term of twelve months; and that James W. Brayton of said Warren served as a private soldier in said Company during the whole of said twelve months, that I served. Said Brayton, as I understood was enlisted into said Company three months before I enlisted and he served as a private soldier in said Company, as I believe, fifteen months. He was discharged, when said Company and Regiment were discharged on the 16th of March A.D. 1778.
[signature] John Sisson
Sworn to and Subscribed in open Court this 16 day of July AD 1832
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
Page 39

I Jonathan J. Drown of Barrington in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations, of the age of Seventy one years last August, on solemn affirmation do depose and say that I enlisted into Captain Thomas Allin's Company in Colonel Archibald Carary"s Regiment of the Rhode Island line, which was raised for fifteen months service. I enlisted in the fore part of the year A.D. 1777, and served in said Company as a private soldier until the 16th day of March A.D. 1778, when said Company and Regiment were discharged. I further depose and say, that James W. Brayton, of Warren in the County and State aforesaid, enlisted into Captain Caleb Carr's Company in said Col. Carary's Regiment for said term of fifteen months, and said Brayton served as a Private soldier in said Captain Carr's Company during all the time I was in said Regiment; he was in said Company when said Company and Regiment were discharged and I have no doubt that he served the whole time for which he enlisted.
[signature] Jonathan J. Drown
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court this 16 day of July AD 1832
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
The Court hereby certify that it appears to them, that John Sisson, Samuel Hicks, Nelson Miller, Samuel Miller and Benjamin Cole and Jonathan J. Drown, who have signed and sworn to the aforewritten depositions are credible persons, and that their statements are entitled to credit.
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
Page 40

I Samuel Hicks, of Warren in the County of Bristol, in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations of the age of eighty four years and upwards, on solemn oath do testify and say, that I have been acquainted with James W. Brayton, of said Warren, upwards of sixty years, that some time in the spring of the year 1775, said James W. Brayton enlisted into Captain Sian Martindale's Company in Col. Church Regiment as a private soldier for the term of eight months. I saw said Brayton in said Company and knew that he marched towards Boston with said Company: and I have always understood that said Brayton served as a private soldier eight months in said Company and have never heard it contradicted; it has ever since said service been so reputed in said Town of Warren. Said Brayton enlisted as I believe on board the Galley called the Spitfire Captain Grimes Commander, and I have ever since understood that he served on board said Galley for the term of about twelve months: it has been so generally reputed in the neighborhood where said Brayton and I live, and I have never heard it contradicted and I believe that he did serve on board said Galley for said length of time.
[signature] Samuel Hicks
Sworn to and Subscribed in open Court this 16 day of July AD 1832
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
Page 41

I Nelson Miller of Bristol in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations, on solemn oath do testify and say, that James W. Brayton, of Warren in the County of Bristol and State aforesaid in the spring of the year 1775, enlisted into the service of the Revolutionary war in a Company commanded by Josiah Martindale in Colonel Church's Regiment, and that he served as a private soldier in said Company during the term of eight months, being the term for which we both enlisted, that I served in said Company during said term we were engaged in the vicinity of Boston. And marched there some time before the Battle of Bunker Hill. In the latter part of the year 1776 I enlisted into Captain Caleb Carr's Company in Col. Carary's Regiment of the Rhode Island line for fifteen months service and served during said term: the said James W. Brayton enlisted into said Captain Carr's Company at the commencement of said Term and served as a private soldier in said Company and Regiment during the whole of said fifteen months. We were stationed and employed in said Company and Regiment at different places on the shores of Narragansett Bay; we served the principal part of the time at Bristol, Tiverton and Little Compton in said State. I know that said Brayton was engaged in the public service between the time of our serving in the Regiment of said Col. Church and the time we served in said Col. Carary's Regiment, on board the Galley called Spitfire commanded by Captain Grimes said Brayton enlisted on board said Galley for the term of twelve months, and from the best of my knowledge and recollection I am confident that he served on board said Galley during said term of twelve months. I also recollect that said Brayton was with me on board the Privateer General Stark, Benjamin Pearce Commander for the space of five months, during all which time we were cruising against the enemy and made several captures. I am now aged seventy seven years and upwards.
[signature] Nelson Miller
Sworn to and Subscribed in open Court this 16 day of July AD 1832.
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
Page 42

I Samuel Miller of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations of the age of seventy seven years and ten months, on solemn oath do depose and said, that I have been well acquainted with James W. Brayton of said Warren for more than sixty years, that said James W. Brayton, some time in the spring A.D. 1775 enlisted into Captain Sian Martindale's Company in the Regiment commanded by Colonel Church for the term of eight months; and that he served in said Company as a private soldier during the term of eight months. After the expiration of said service said James W. Brayton enlisted on board the Spitfire Galley commanded by Captain Grimes, in the capacity of Carpenter's mate for the term of twelve months. Said Galley was fitted out by said State of Rhode Island to cruise against the Enemy and said Brayton served twelve months on board of said Galley. After said James W. Brayton was discharged from said Galley, he enlisted as a private soldier in Captain Caleb Carr's Company in Col Carary's Regiment raised by said State, and served in said Company for said term of fifteen months.
[signature] Samuel Miller
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
Bristol sc. in Warren July the 13th A.D. 1832.
Then personally appeared the above named Samuel Miller and being carefully examined cautioned and sworn, gave the aforegoing deposition and made oath to the same, which deposition was reduced to writing by me in presence of said Samuel Miller and was by him subscribed in my presence. Taken to be used in an application of said James W. Brayton for the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June the 7, 1832, entitled an Act supplementary to an Act for the relief of the surviving officers and soldiers of the Revolution. I hereby certify that i am well acquainted with said Samuel Miller and that he is a credible person, and that he is so infirm in body that he cannot conveniently attend the Court of Common Pleas in said County.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the peace.
Page 43

The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
Bristol ss. in Bristol this 16 day of July AD 1832
I Ichabod Davis Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in the County of Bristol in said state do hereby Certify that Levi Haile who has Certified the taking of the within Deposition is a Justice of the Peace for said County of Bristol authorised by Same to take Depositions and the signature annexed to be  the [illegible] of the capture of said Deposition - is the genuine signature of said Levi Haile.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my [hand] and seal of office this 16 day of July AD 1832
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
[seal affixed to left]
Page 44

I Benjamin Cole of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations, of the age of seventy two years and upwards, on solemn oath, do depose and say, that I have been acquainted with James W. Brayton of said Warren for more than sixty years; that said James W. Brayton in the spring of the year A.D. 1775, enlisted into Captain Sian Martindale's Company in Col. Church's Regiment for eight months service, and I saw said Brayton march with said Company for the vicinity of Boston, and he did not return to said Warren until the expiration of said eight months; and according to the best of my knowledge and belief said Brayton served as a private soldier in said Company during said term of eight months. After the expiration of said term said Brayton enlisted on board the Galley, fitted out by said State of Rhode Island, called the Spitfire, Captain Grimes Commander; I saw said Brayton on board said Galley, and I have always understood that said Brayton served on board of said Galley about twelve months and believe that he did. It has ever since been so understood in this neighborhood and I have never heard it contradicted. Said Brayton also enlisted into Captain Caleb Carr's Company in Col Carary's Regiment for fifteen months service: I know that said Brayton served as a private soldier in said Company, and have always understood that he served for said term of fifteen months.
[signature] Benj Cole
Sworn to and Subscribed to in open Court this 16 day of July AD 1832
Attest Ichabod Davis Clerk
Page 45

Pomfret Centre, Conn.
Will you kindly send me a copy of the military history of James Wheaton Brayton Born Oct. 8, 1757 at Newport Died Sept. 23, 1832 - His Widow received a pension in 1833.
Page 46

Yours Truly
Rachel M. Miller
[circular stamp] U. S. Pension Office APR 13 1914
Page 47

[Circular stamp] U. S. Pension Office [date obscured by stationery initials ESS]
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.
Dear Sir: -
Will you kindly send me a certificate of the Pension Record of James Wheaton Brayton of Warren, Rhode Island who served in the Revolution - The State boundaries have been
Page 48

changed so much during the last Century that possibly Warren was in Massachusetts at that time. I wish to send this Record in with D. A. R. application papers.
If there is any charge attached to this matter - kindly let me know - 
Very truly - (Mrs.) Edith S. Seymour - 
New [illegible] [illegible]
318 No. Broadway.
Page 49

17 Medfield St.,
Worcester, Mass.
August 8, 1933.
Department of the Interior
Bureau of Pensions
Washington, D.C.
Mr. E. C. Tiernan,
Acting Commissioner,
My dear Mr. Tiernan,
Will you please send me the Military History of Japheth Corttis, Rev soldier from Thompson, Conn. Pension No. W [original no. 17469 crossed through] 17649.
Also, the service record of James Wheaton Brayton from Warren R.I. Rev. War record Section 3 - 525 (also have a number W.F.27389 which I do not understand)
Also, the service record of Robert Bailey of East Greenwich, R. I. who was in Capt. Manchesters Company and also I believe Sergeant in Col. Elliotts Reg.
I should like these records in detail as much as possible
Page 50

as I wish to use them in connection with my membership in the Col. Timothy Bigelow Chapter D. A. R. of Worcester, Mass.
Your kindness will be greatly appreciated.
Yours truly
Mildred Carver Carpenter
(Mrs. C. L.)
Page 51

Rev Ser
Mrs Mary V. D. Hudson
32 Cherry St. Pawtucket R. I.
To Commissioner Ward
Dear Sir,
Some seven or eight years ago, I wrote you and enclosed a letter from my Uncle James L. Brayton of Westerly, stating that his grandfather my great grandfather James L. or Brayton of Warren had served in the Revolutionary War. My Mother's name (Maiden) Mary Ann Brayton.
[illegible] which you sent me a paper telling me
[circular stamp] U. S. Pension Office FEB 2 1915
Page 52

Rev Ser
Mrs. Mary V. D. Hudson
32 Cherry St. Pawtucket R. I.
To Commissioner Ward
Dear Sir
Some seven or eight years ago I wrote you and enclosed a letter from my Uncle James L. Brayton of Westerly stating the his Grandfather my great grandfather James L. or Brayton of Warren had served in the Revolutionary War. My Mother's name (Maiden) Mary Ann Brayton. [Illegible] which you sent me a paper telling me
[circular stamp] U. S. Pension Office FEB2 1915
Page 53

that he served on land and sea - That he married Roby Easterbrooks at Warren. I intended at that time to join our Pawtucket chapter but being out of the city a great deal I failed to do it. But I would like to join them.
I had always known that great Grandfather had served in the R. War
Page 54

& have a niece in St. Peters Minn, 700 S Minnesota Ave. who through the same line has become a member of a chapter there
As reference I can give you the name of my most intimate friend for years - Miss Jennice A Gilmore The Regent last year of Pawtucket Chapter 278 High St Paw
Miss Claribel Brandall the present year. A dear friend. Regent. High St Pawtucket R I.
Page 55

I have always through my married life lived here in Pawtucket.
Will you be kind enough to send me another statement. I never knew what became of the paper & letter which Uncle James sent me unless through my over carelessness my desk gets an overhauling often and I am often filling the waste basket. I would feel that I have been careless
Page 56

[Business letterhead]
M.L. Brayton, Cutlery, Silver, China, Crockery, GlassWare, Enameled and Tin Ware.
Specialties
Pocket Knives Scissors and Shears, Razors, Table Cutlery. Weavers, Razor Strops, etc. Factory Shipments Residence 55 Vernon St. 
Providence, R. I. 

Sept 12, 1913
Dear Sir,
If your office has any record of the Revolutionary service of James Wheaton Brayton enlisted probably from Newport R. I. it will be a great favor if you will send me a copy.
Yours truly
M L Brayton
To the Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C.
[circular stamp] U S Pension Office SEP 15 1913
Page 57

Westerly R. I. Jan 29 1905
To the Pension Office
Washington D. C.
Will you please look up Genaology of my Great-Grandfather James Wheaton Brayton. who lived in Warren R. I. and who served in the War of the Revolution and oblige
Mrs A. D. Burdick
20 Moss St.
Westerly RI
[circular stamp] U S Pension Office JAN 30 1905
[square stamp] U.S.P.R. Old War & Navy Files JAN 31 1905
Page 58

[Insignia of RI Society Sons Of The American Revolution]
Rhode Island Society Sons of the American Revolution
PRESIDENT,
HON. ELISHA DYER,
PROVIDENCE, R. I.
VICE-PRESIDENT,
ARTHUR WELLINGTON DENNIS,
165 PEACE STREET.
SECRETARY,
CHRISTOPHER RHODES,
290 BENEFIT STREET.
TREASURER,
ARTHUR PRESTON SUMNER,
17 CUSTOM HOUSE STREET.
REGISTRAR,
HARRIS WILBUR BROWN,
72 WHITMARSH STREET.
HISTORAN,
GEORGE FRANKLIN WESTON,
225 LENOX AVENUE,
CHAPLAIN,
REV. FREDERICK JAMES BASSETT, D.D.
166 PROSPECT STREET
POET,
JOHN PRESCOTT FARNSWORTH.
42 TOREY STREET.
Providence, R. I. Mar 10 1903
Dear Sir -
Please to send me a certificate
of service of James Wheaton Brayton
a soldier &c  in the Revolutionary War,
I believe his widow Roby
Easterbrooks Brayton received a Pension
about 1833 soon after her husband's
death. She lived at Warren R. I,
Yours Respectfully
Christ^r Rhodes
Secretary
To the
Hon Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.
[circular stamp] U. S. Pension Office MAR 11 1903
Page 59

[Duplicate of following document]
Page 60

[handwriting is very faded]
Westerly R I Feby 16th 1903
Dear [illegible]Your [illegible] at hand, very glad to hear from you. I was named after my Grandfather which is James Wheaton Brayton that was his name.
He was of this Revolutionary Soldier but was stationed here in R.I. as Home guard. He did not  [illegible] to go out of the State.
As he was enlisted in the Army you can be a Revolutionary Daughter if you wish to be one - 
Mother is well and with the Rest of us, sends our Heart felt thanks to you and all inquiring friends. I do not know Grandmother's first name but She was I think an Easterbrooks the last name
Page 61

[handwriting is very faint]
Mother's Son's wife is here at this present time visiting. I am enjoying good health bodily but joints are getting stiff makeing it rather hard work to get about, but otherwise I am enjoying good health.
My age is 87 & five months
Tell your father to write me [three words illegible] glad to hear from [illegible]
from your Uncle James
N.B. Mother and all of us send there [illegible] to all [illegible] James W Brayton
[square stamp] 
U. S. P. [illegible] 
[faded] NAVY
FEB 27 1903
[circular stamp] U.S. Pension Office FEB 24 1903
Page 62

155 Norwood Avenue Edgewood R
Just who I am writing to, I dont know however I am sure you will be kind enough to look the following names, as it means a good deal to me, I am very desirous of becoming a Daughter of the Revolution. My old Uncle now 87 years old tells me that his grandfather James Wheaton Brayton enlisted in the Revolutionary War.
I will enclose this letter from him. They lived in Warren R.I. My Great Grandmother's name was Easterbrooks of Warren R.I. I shall most heartily appreciate your efforts in finding for me necessary proof that I am eligible.
Page 63

I have so many friends who are and they are anxious that I should join them furthermore I shall feel proud to know that I had relatives who were connected with that War.
Please excuse paper. I am visiting and this is the only available paper.
Please direct
Mrs Mary V. D. Hudson
155 Norwood Avenue Edgewood, RI
I shall wait with great anxiety
Saturday Feb 2nd 1903.
[circular stamp] U.S. Pension Office FEB 24 1903
Page 64

[Insignia of the Iowa Sons of the American Revolution]
OFFICERS.
PRESIDENT.
HOM. DAMON N. SPRAGUE
FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT.
HON. W. H. BAILY, DES MOINES
SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT
MORRIS W. BLAIR, KOSSUTH
TREASURER
WILLARD SECOR, FOREST CITY
SECRETARY
CAPT. E. D. HADLEY, DES MOINES
ASSISTANT SECRETARY,
F. A. DURHAM, ESQ., DES MOINES
REGISTRAR-HISTORIAN
DR. E. H. HAZEN, DES MOINES
CHAPLAIN
REV. JAMES B. CHASE, HULL
ADDITIONAL MANAGERS
COL. H. H. ROOD, MT. VERNON
L.M. WHITE, ESQ., WOODBINE
J. W. LOGAN, ESQ. WATERLOO.
HON. A. J. MACRARY, KEOKUK.
REPRESENTATIVES.
DELEGATE AT LARGE
H. B. HAWLEY, ESQ., DES MOINES
DELEGATE.
L. M. WHITE, ESQ., WOODBINE,
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
D. N. SPRAGUE, PRES., EX OFFICIO
W. H. BALLY, FIRST VICE-PRES.
E. D. HADLEY, SECRETARY.
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY.
Des Moines, Ia. Oct 18, 1900
the Honorable Commissioner of Pensions - 
Washington D.C.
Dear Sir
Will you kindly
furnish me with the record of the Revolutionary
Services of James Wheaton Brayton, of Rhode Island, to whose widow a pension was granted (it is said) for services in the
Revolutionary War, by the influence of Hon
Tristan Burgess sometime senator from
Rhode Island?
Sincerely yours
E. D. Hadley
Secretary
Page 65

Revolutionary War Records Section.
3-535
Department of the Interior,
Bureau of Pensions,
Washington, D.C., _______________, 19____
In reply to your request of ____________, received_______ for a statement of the military history of James Wheaton Brayton a soldier of the Revolutionary War, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau. W.27.389
[Table]
[Column Headings] / Date of Enlistment or Appointment. / Length of Service. / Rank / Officers Under Whom Service Was Rendered. Captain. Colonel. / State. / 
[Row 1] Spr. 1775 / 8 mos. / Pvt. / [Capt.] Sion Martindale. [Col.] Church / R.I. /
[Row 2] / * / 12 mos. / Carpenter's Mate / [Capt.] Grimes on the Galley "Spitfire" / R.I. /
[Row 3] / Dec 1776 / Mch 16 1778 / Pvt. / [Capt.] Caleb Carr. [Col.] Archibald Crary / [R. I.] / 
[Row 4] / [check mark] / 5 mos. / [blank] / [Capt.] Benjamin Pearce "General Stark" / Privateer /  
[End of Table]
Battles engaged in, *With the Phoenix & Rose British vessels
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Warren, Bristol Co R.I.
Date of application for pension, July 16 1832. His claim was allowed.
Residence at date of application, Warren, Bristol Co. R.I.
Age at date of application, born Oct. 8 1757 at Newport R.I., died Sept 23 1832 at Warren
Remarks: Soldier married Dec 12 1777 at Warren R.I. Roby dau of Wm Easterbrooks and she was granted pension on her application executed Mch. 4, 1833 while a resident of Warren R.I. aged 73 years; they had a large family of children Benjamin b. [crossed through: Mch. 2, 1778 with arrow to note: "intentionally omitted see marriage"]; William & Patience only names given.
Respectfully, [blank]
Commissioner.
6-2856
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I Benjamin Brayton of Warwick in the County of Kent in the State of Rhode Island &c., on solemn oath, do testify and say, that I am in the fifty ninth year of my age and shall be sixty years of age on the 2nd day of March, next month, that I am the oldest Son of James Wheaton Brayton, late of Warren in the County of Bristol in said State, deceased, and of his Widow Roby Brayton of said Warren, and that I distinctly recollect of having my said Mother Roby Brayton frequently say, while I lived with her and before I was grown up to manhood that she was married to my said Father James W. Brayton on the twelfth day of December in the year seventeen hundred seventy seven; and I further testify I never saw any record of the marriage of my said Father & Mother that there was no record of the marriage in the family and that my Mother could not write her name, and I further testify that I have always understood that my Father was left an orphan child when very young; and that he obtained no education until some time after his marriage. My Father went to school to learn to write after I was old enough to go to school. I went to school with my Father to Mr Sampson Sims. After my Father learned to write he left a record of the births of his children in his bible.
[signature] Benjamin Brayton
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
County of Bristol } ss.
In Warren February the 24th A.D. 1838.
Then the above named Benjamin Brayton personally appearing before me, the Subscriber, one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State, and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the above and aforewritten deposition, to which he subscribed his name in my presence. And I hereby certify that I am acquainted with said Benjamin Brayton, that he is a credible person, and his statement is entitled to credit.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court.
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I William Brayton of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island &c. on solemn oath do testify and say that I am the Son of James Wheaton Brayton, late of said Warren, deceased, and of his Widow Roby Brayton of said Warren; and that I have always understood from my Father and Mother that they were married in the month of December in the year seventeen hundred seventy seven; there was never to my knowledge any record of their marriage in my Father's family; and that I never saw or heard of any record of their marriage. My Mother cannot write and I have heard my Father a great many times say that he could not write until after his marriage & after he went into business where he learned to write.
[signature] William Brayton
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
County of Bristol } ss.
In Warren February the 24th A.D. 1838.
Then the above named William Brayton personally appearing before me the Subscriber, one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State, and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the above written deposition, to which he subscribed his name in my presence. And I herby certify that I am well acquainted with said William Brayton, that he is a credible person and his statement is entitled to credit.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court
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I Patience Brayton, of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island &c., on solemn oath do testify and say, that I am the Daughter of James Wheaton Brayton of said Warren, and that I have always resided with my Mother from my birth; and I further testify that I recollect of often hearing my Father say in his life time that while he belonged to the Revolutionary Army he came home and was married to my said Mother and that he returned after his marriage and served out his period of service; there is no record of their said marriage in my Mother's family, and I have never seen or heard of any record of their marriage.
[signature] Patience Brayton
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
County of Bristol } ss.
In Warren February the 24th A.D. 1838. Then the above named Patience Brayton personally appearing before me the Subscriber one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the above written deposition, to which she inscribed her name in my presence. And I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with said Patience Brayton that she is a credible person and her statement is entitled to credit.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court
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I Elizabeth Harding of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island &c., on solemn oath do testify, and say, that I am in the sixty eighth year of my age, and that my maiden name was Elizabeth Easterbrooks, and that I am the Sister of Roby Brayton of said Warren Widow of James Wheaton Brayton late of said Warren, deceased, and I further testify that I was personally present and saw my sister said Roby Brayton married to said James Wheaton Brayton by Rev. Charles Thompson in the month of December in the year seventeen hundred seventy seven; I cannot now recollect the day of the month, but I am positive that it was in the month of December 1777, from my recollection that the marriage was at my Father's house; that I was seven years old the next month after said marriage; and that the British troops came to Warren and burnt the meeting house the next spring after said marriage. I understood said James W. Brayton came home from the army on a visit at the time of his said marriage & returned to the army after his marriage to serve out his time. I recollect that said James W. Brayton after said marriage was absent from home serving in the Army as I then understood when his oldest Son [name Benjamin crossed through] Brayton was born, and that he came home soon after the birth of said Benjamin. There was no record of said marriage in my Father's family nor in the family of my said Sister to my knowledge; and I never saw or heard of any record of said marriage.
[signature] Elizabeth her X cross Harding
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
County of Bristol } ss.
In Warren February the 24th A.D. 1838
Then the above named Elizabeth Harding personally appearing before me, the Subscriber, one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State and being sworn according to law
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made oath to the truth of the aforewritten deposition to which she subscribed her cross in my presence, being unable to write her name. And I hereby certify, that I am well acquainted with Elizabeth Harding, that she is a credible person, and her statement is entitled to credit.
[signature] Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court
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Benjamin Son of James Wheaton Brayton & Roby his wife born March 2, 1778.
A true copy of the record
Attest Samuel Randall Town Clerk
State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations } Town Clerk's Office Warren
February 24th 1838.
I Samuel Randall of Warren, on oath do testify & say that I am the town clerk of said town of Warren, legally appointed and duly engaged as such, that the laws of this State require all births of children to be recorded in the town where they take place, and that the foregoing is a true copy of the Record of the birth of Benjamin Brayton.
Samuel Randall
The State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations County of Bristol } ss.
In Warren the 24th A.D. 1838.
Then the above named Samuel Randall personally appearing before me the Subscriber, one of the Justices of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State, and being sworn according to law made oath to the truth of the above written affidavit to which he subscribed his name in my presence. And I hereby certify, that I am well acquainted with said Samuel Randall, that he is a credible person, and his statement is entitled to credit.
Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court
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I Nelle West of Bristol in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, being in the seventy eigth year of my age and being sworn according to law, do testify and say, that I am the sister of Roby Brayton, of Warren in the County and State aforesaid, Widow of James Wheaton Brayton late of said Warren deceased, and that said Roby Brayton , whose maiden name was Roby Easterbrooks, was lawfully married to said James Wheaton Brayton by Charles Thompson the Pastor of the Baptist Church in said Warren, some time in the month of December in the year seventeen hundred seventy seven, the precise day of the month I cannot now recollect, and that I was personally present at said marriage; and I further testify that I clearly recollect that said James Wheaton Brayton at the time of his said marriage was a private soldier in Captain Caleb Carr's Company in Col. Crary Regiment of the Rhode Island line, and that after his said marriage he continued to serve in said Company for a considerable length of time, and as I always understood until his time of service expired and he was discharged; and I further testify that said Roby Brayton has remained unmarried ever since the death of her said husband, which was in the month of September A.D. 1832.
[signature] Nelle her X cross West
The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
Bristol County } ss. in Bristol September the 14th A.D. 1836.
This day the above named Nelle West personally appearing before me, the Subscriber, and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the above written deposition, to which she subscribed her cross in my presence, being unable to write her name. And I hereby certify, that I am acquainted with said Nelle West, and that she is a credible person and her statement is entitled to credit.
Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court.
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I John Sisson, of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations being in the seventy ninth year of my age and being a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States and being sworn according to law, do testify and say that I was well acquainted with James Wheaton Brayton, late of said Warren, deceased, before the War of the Revolution and up to the time of his death and that on the sixteenth of March 1777 I enlisted into Captain Caleb Carr's Company in Colonel Archibald Crary's Regiment in the Rhode Island line and served as a private soldier in said Company until 18th March 1778, one year, and that when I joined said Company on the 16th March 1777 said James W. Brayton, was a private soldier in said Company having enlisted as I understood into said Company three months before that time and that said James W. Brayton continued to serve as a private soldier in said Company until said 16th day of March 1778 when he was also discharged; and I further testify that during said time, and from the best of my recollection some time in the month of December 1777, (seventeen hundred seventy seven, said James Wheaton Brayton was married to Roby Easterbrooks of said Warren, and I well recollect that said Brayton continued in said service after his said marriage; the said James W. Brayton and Roby Brayton ever lived together as man and wife up to the time of his death and had a large family of children, and I further testify that said Roby Brayton is the widow of said James Wheaton Brayton and now resides in said Warren having remained unmarried since the death of her said Husband.
[signature] John Sisson
The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
Bristol County ss. in Warren, September the 9th A.D. 1836.
This day the above named John Sisson personally appearing before me the Subscriber and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the above written deposition, to which he subscribed his name in my presence. And I hereby certify, that I am well acquainted with said John Sisson, and that he is a credible person, and his statement is entitled to credit.
Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court.
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I Sarah Burden, of Warren in the County of Bristol in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, being in the seventy second year of my age and being sworn according to law, do testify and say, that I am the Sister of Roby Brayton, of said Warren, Widow of James Wheaton Brayton late of said Warren, deceased, and that her maiden name was Roby Easterbrooks, and that she was lawfully married to said James Wheaton Brayton in the month of December in the year seventeen hundred seventy seven, by Charles Thompson Pastor of the Baptist Church in said Warren, the precise day of the month I cannot now recollect, and I further testify, that I well recollect that at the time of their said marriage said James Wheaton Brayton was a private soldier in Captain Caleb Carr's Company in Col. Crary's Regiment, and that after his said marriage he continued to serve in said company until some time the following spring, and that I lived with my said Sister the principal part of the time that her said Husband was in the service; and I further testify said James W. Brayton & Roby Brayton ever after their said marriage lived together as husband and wife, (except when he was absent from his home in the army or at sea,) and they had eight children and I further testify that said James W. Brayton died at said Warren on the 23rd day of September A.D. 1832, and that said Roby Brayton is his Widow having remained unmarried since his decease. [signature] Sarah Burden
The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations,
Bristol County ss. in Warren September the 9th A.D. 1836.
This day the above named Sarah Burden personally appearing before me, the Subscriber and being sworn according to law, made oath to the truth of the above written deposition, to which she subscribed her name in my presence. And I hereby certify, that I am well acquainted with said Sarah Burden and that she is a credible person and her statement is entitled to credit.
Levi Haile Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court.
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The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, County of Bristol } ss.
I Greenwood Reynolds Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court of said State, for the County aforesaid, being the highest Court of Record in said State, and holding its sessions in each County in said State, do hereby certify, that Levi Haile is one of the Justices of said Supreme Judicial Court duly appointed by the General Assembly and commissioned by the Governor of said State, and is fully authorized to act in his said capacity; and that his signature written under the several certificates hereto annexed is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Bristol this seventeenth day of September one thousand eight hundred and thirty six. -
[signature] Greenwood Reynolds Clerk
[seal and ribbon affixed at left]