Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 19270, Robert Foster, Va.
Page 1

Service Va

Foster, Robert
Elizabeth

Number W. 19270
Page 2

Richmond   5937
Virginia
Elizabeth Foster, Decd
widow of Robert Foster,
Va
and who died on the 22nd May 1789
of Charlotte in the State of Virginia
who was a Lieut in the - commanded
by Captain - of the - commanded
by - in the Continental
line for 2 years

Inscribed on the Roll of virginia
at the rate of 320 Dollars - Cents per annum
to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836. Ending 25th June 1839-

Certificate of Pension issued the 2nd day of Decr: 1840 and sent to
Wm B Bedford, Charlotte CH, Va

Arrears to the 24th of June 1839    $1,009:23
Payable to Peter B. Patrick H. and Nelson K. Foster, Maria Osborne and Martha A. Noble, children of said deceased.
Act July 7, 1838

Recorded by Wm C. Lantzinger Clerk
Book A. Vol. 2 Page 187
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7205
Declaration of 
children of Mrs.
Elizabeth Foster, Decd
for Pension Va.
under Act July 7th, 1838-
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Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th July, 1838, entitled "an Act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows-"
On this 1st day of June, 1840, personally appeared in open court, before the County Court of Charlotte, now sitting, Maria Osborne, one of the children of Elizabeth Foster deceased, (late widow of Robert Foster, deceased, of Amelia) a resident of Charlotte County, State of Virginia, 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 7th, 1838, entitled "An Act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows-"
She declares, that she is one of the children of Elizabeth Foster, deceased, widow of Robert Foster, deceased, late of Amelia County, who was a lieutenant in the Virginia Continental line, in the War of the Revolution - That her mother, the said Elizabeth Foster, departed this life in the County of Charlotte, on the 25th day of June, 1839, aged about 78 years - That previous to her death, finding that she was entitled to a Pension under the Act of Congress of the 7th July, 1838, she had commenced procuring the necessary evidence in order to establish the same, but was taken sick, and finally died, before it was accomplished.
She further declares, that she know no=
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thing of the military service of said Robert Foster (her Father) except from hearsay - and therefore refers to certificates of Lieutenant John Crute, Hon. James Jones, and others, for more particular information on thee subject;  all of which, accompany this her Declaration, and prayed to be considered part thereof - She does not know, how long said Robert Foster was in service altogether, but would suppose much longer than two years.
She further declares, that she always understood from her mother the said Elizabeth Foster, in her life time, "that she the said Elizabeth and Robert Foster were married by publication of banns, in the County of Amelia, on the 5th day of April, 1781, by parson Craig or Bruenskill (she forgets which) of the old Episcopal Church, according to the rites and ceremonies of that church - That her husband, the said Robert Foster, died on the 22d day of May, 1789, at Amelia Ct House - That she was not married to him, prior to his leiving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first day of January, Seventeen hundred and ninty four;  to wit, at the time above Stated"-
She further declares, that said Elizabeth Foster never intermarried, but state continued to the day of her death, the widow of said Robert Foster.
That said Elizabeth Foster, at the time of her death, left six children, all of whom are alive;  to wit, Daniel Foster, Peter B. Foster, Patrick H. Foster, Maria Osborne, Nelson K. Foster and Martha A. Noble:  All of which, will more
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readily appear by reference to the proof accompanying this Declaration - In conclusion, the she declares, that the foregoing Declaration is presented for the purpose of recovering the amount of Pension that her Mother would have been entitled to, if alive;  and in accordance with instructions from the War Department.
Maria Osborne
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court-
Winslow Robinson Clk.

State of Virginia, Charlotte County Court:
At a Court held for Charlotte County June 1 1840
The foregoing declaration of Maria Osborne daughter of Elizabeth Foster decd who was the widow of Lieutenant Robert foster decd, formerly of Amelia County Virginia, with accompanying documents and evidence was read in open Court and fully explained to the entire satisfaction of the Court.   The Court are moreover satisfied that Daniel Foster, Peter B Foster, Patrick H Foster, Maria Osborne, Nelson K Foster and Martha A Noble are the only surviving children of said Elizabeth Foster decd.  Ordered that the same be certified to the War department.

State of Virginia, Charlotte County Court
I Winslow Robinson Clerk of the said County Court of Charlotte do hereby certify that the foregoing is the original declaration of Maria Osborne, one of the children of Elizabeth Foster decd widow of Lieutenant Robert Foster, and a true copy of the order of the said Court in relation thereto.  Given under my hand and the seal of my office this 5th day of June 1840
Winslow Robinson C
[SEAL]
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October 21, 1932

BA-J/MCS
Robert Foster
W. 19270
James Quarles
R.17254

Mrs. Violet Hopkins
Apartment 309
2145 C Street, N.W.
Washington
D.C.

Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter of October 6, 1932, requesting information in regard to soldiers of the Revolution.
The data furnished herein were obtained from papers on file in the pension claim, W. 19270, based upon the military service of Robert Foster.
He served as ensign in the Virginia Line from April 20, 1777 until April 20, 1778, and as Lieutenant of Infantry from April 20, 1778, until December 31, 1781.  He enlisted in the company of his brother, Captain James Foster, and was a prisoner on parole in 1780. 
He married in Amelia County, Virginia, April 4, 1781, Elizabeth, her maiden name not given.
He died May 22, 1789, at Amelia Court House, Virginia, where he was tenant of a tavern.
His widow, Elizabeth, died June 25, 1789, at the home of her son-in-law, John Osborne, in Charlotte County, Virginia, and she was then about seventy-eight years of age.
She left the following children:  Daniel, Peter B., Patrick H., Maria Osborne, Nelson K. and Martha A. Noble.
On account of his service in the Revolution, Robert Foster was granted 2666-2/3 acres of bounty land by the State of Virginia in 1783.
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On an application executed June 1, 1840 in Charlotte county, Virginia, the pension that was due Elizabeth as the widow of Robert Foster was allowed for the benefit of the above mentioned children.
The Revolutionary War records of this office fail to afford any information relative to pension or bounty land having been claimed on account of the service of a James Foster who served as Captain in the Virginia Line.

The data which follow were obtained from papers on file in the pension claim, R. 17254, Virginia Half Pay, based upon the military service of James Quarles.
James Quarles of King William County, Virginia, served a Major of Infantry in the Virginia State Line during the Revolutionary War and was allowed half pay for his services under the Act of July 5, 1832.
There are no data on file in regard to his wife or children but a grandchild, Mrs. Elizabeth Q. Lake, and a great grandchild, Magdalena Mildred P. Tinsley who married married James B. Owens, are referred to.
As a possible means of obtaining further information relative to Major James Quarles of King William County, Virginia, it is suggested that you apply to War Department, Old Records Division, Washington, D.C.

Very truly yours
A.D. Hiller
Assistant to Administrator
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Robert Foster d 1789 May 22d
Eliz.  M Apl 1781 d June 25 1839
left 6 chilren in 1759  married only 8 years

Mrs. Foster left 6 children

died on or about

Robert Foster Lieut recd 23
May 1783 2666 2/3 acres land
for 3 years to 31 Decr.  1781

Ens from 20 Apl 77 to to 20 Apl 78  12 mo
Lt from 20 Apl 78 to Dec 31 '81
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This certificate of the Court is not satisfactory proof
J. L. E
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W.J.B. Bedford 24 July '40
same Bedford 12 Aug 1840
same 22 Octr. 1840

Act of July 1838
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Eliz: Foster wid of
Robt. Foster died
25th June 1839
vs
married 1781
died 1789
Allow Lieut 2 yrs $320
per ann Va. Contl line
Capt Foster on roll
cert to Daniel Foster
Peter B. Foster
Patrick H Foster
Maria Osborne
Nelson K Foster
Martha A. Noble
children of said Elizabeth
up to June 25, 1839

W.J. B Bedford Esq
Charlotte C H Va
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certificate of
Lt. John Crute
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State of Virginia: Prince Edward County to wit:
I John Crute late a Lieutenant in the State line of Virginia on Continental Establishment in the War of the Revolution do hereby certify, that I was well acquainted with Robert Foster late of Amelia County, in the War of the Revolution.  I cannot state how long he was in service, being frequently detached to various Regiments, but recollect that he ranked as a Lieutenant in the Virginia Continental line and served a long time.
John Crute Lt. late of  [illegible]
March 24th 1840
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June 21, 1937

BA-J/MMHF:MLB

Mrs. J.H. Woodard
Tranquillity
Springfield, Tennessee

Dear Madam:  
Reference is made to your letter [handwritten above "See letter in clm of W. 10220 of Benjamin Neale"] in which you cite from S.A.R. yearbook of Kentucky 1896, page 106, John Gibson as a pensioner of Barren County, Kentucky in 1832, for his service as private of artillery, Virginia line, whose record you desire, also, that of Benjamin Neal, a pensioner in Logan County, Kentucky, and further to know any other Government Department to which you might apply, to prove that Lieutenant Robert Foster of Virginia was the son of Captain James Foster and not a brother.  You refer to letter of February 2, 1937, in which you were informed that there is no claim for pension on file based upon service in the Revolutionary War of a John Gibson of Virginia who received a pension while living in Barren County, Kentucky.
As stated in letter to you February 2, 1937, there is no claim for pension on file based upon service in the Revolutionary War of a John Gibson who served from Virginia and received a pension while living in Barren County, Kentucky.  It may be that some error has been made in recording the name of the pensioner.  As you state that Captain James Foster in whom you are interested served in the marines (Virginia Navy) information in regard to him might be obtained from the Custodian of Revolutionary War Naval Records, Richmond, Virginia, or from the Navy Department, this city.
In the pension claim, W. 19270, based upon the service in the Revolutionary War of Lieutenant Robert Foster, it is shown, as stated in the record furnished you January 22, 1936, that the Captain James Foster under whom he served was his brother.
The record of Benjamin Neale is furnished you herewith.
Very truly yours
A.D. Hiller
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
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January 22, 1936
xxxxxxx
BA-J/MCS
Robert Foster, W.19270
Mrs. J. H. Woodard
Springfield
Tennessee
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your request for the records of Revolutionary War soldiers, James Foster, Robert Foster, John S. Gibson, James Gooch, John Greene, Richard Greene, Daniel Holman, Robert Kerr or Karr and James Murrell.
Because of the great demand for Revolutionary War and War of 1812 data and the limited trained clerical force available for furnishing such information, it is impossible to comply in full with each request pertaining to soldiers of those wars. The record of Robert Foster is furnished you herein as found on file in the papers of pension claim, W. 19270.
Robert Foster served as ensign in the Virginia Line from April 20, 1777, until April 20, 1778, and as Lieutenant of Infantry from April 20, 1778, until December 31, 1781. He enlisted in the company of his brother Captain James Foster, and was a prisoner on parole in 1780.
He married in Amelia County, Virginia, April 5, 1781, Elizabeth, her maiden name not given.
He died May 22, 1789, at Amelia Court House, Virginia, where he was tenant of a tavern. The date and place of his birth and the names of his parents were not given.
His widow, Elizabeth, died June 25, 1839, at the home of her son-in-law, John Osborne, in Charlotte County, Virginia, and she was then about seventy-eight years of age.
She left the following children: Daniel. Peter B., Patrick H., Maria Osborne, Nelson K. Foster and Martha A. Noble.
Note that she had this hist. in 1939 but Mrs. French said send it again
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On account of his service in the Revolution, Robert Foster, was granted 2666-2/3 acres of bounty land by the state of Virginia in 1783.
On an application executed June 1, 1840, in Charlotte County, Virginia, the pension that was due Elizabeth as the widow of Robert Foster was allowed for the benefit of the above mentioned children.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER
Executive Assistant to the Administrator
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Rev. and 1812 
Wars Section
MCS/eel 
April 6, 1929
Mrs. Lulu P. Briggs
419 S. 13th Street
Corvallis, Oregon
Madam:
I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 19270, it appears that Robert Foster served as Ensign in the Virginia Line from April 20, 1777, until April 20, 1778, and as Lieutenant of Infantry from April 20, 1778, until December 31, 1781. He enlisted in the company of his brother, Captain James Foster, and was a prisoner on parole in 1780.
He married in Amelia County, Virginia, April 5, 1781, Elizabeth.
He died May 22, 1789, at Amelia Court House, Virginia, where he was tenant of a tavern.
His widow, Elizabeth, died June 25, 1839, at the home of her son-in-law, John Osborne, in Charlotte County, Virginia, and she was then about seventy-eight years of age. She left the following children: Daniel, Peter B., Patrick H., Maria Osborne, Nelson K. and Martha A. Noble.
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On account of his service in the Revolution, Robert Foster, was granted 2666-2/3 acres of bounty land by the state of Virginia in 1783.
On an application executed June 1, 1840, in Charlotte County, Virginia, the pension that was due Elizabeth as the widow of Robert Foster was allowed the above mentioned children.
The Revolutionary War records of this bureau fail to afford any information relative to pension or bounty land having been claimed on account of the service of a James Foster who served as Captain in the Virginia Line.
Respectfully,
E. W. MORGAN
Acting Commissioner.
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Rev. &1812 Wars Section. MMHF
COPIED BY ADY
September 4, 1928.
Mrs. J. H. Woodard,
Springfield,
Tennessee. Box 446.
Madam:
I advise you that this bureau is unable to furnish the history of a soldier of the Revolution unless a claim for pension or bounty land has been made on account of his service.
the Revolutionary War records fail to show such a claim on file on account of the service of Captain James Foster of the Virginia Troops, or of William Gause (Gauss, Goss, Gouse).
As stated in bureau letter of August 1, 1928, the Captain James Foster in whose company Lieutenant Robert Foster (W.19270) served, was his elder brother. The name of their father is not given.
It is not stated that Lieutenant Robert Foster's widow Elizabeth married George Foster, but it is stated that she never intermarried, but still continued to the day of her death, the widow of said Robert Foster.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT,
Commissioner.
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M.C.S.
1812 War Section
August 1, 1928
Mrs. Bertha G. Woodard
Springfield
Tenn.
Madam:
I advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 19270, it appears that ROBERT FOSTER served as Ensign in the Virginia Line from April 20, 1777, until April 20, 1778, and as Lieutenant of Infantry from April 20, 1778, until December 31, 1781. He enlisted in the company of his brother, Captain James Foster, and was a prisoner on parole in 1780.
He married in Amelia County, Virginia, April 5, 1781, Elizabeth.
He died May 22, 1789, at Amelia Court House, Virginia, where he was tenant of a tavern.
His widow, Elizabeth, died June 25, 1839, at the home of her son-in-law, John Osborne, in Charlotte County, Virginia, and she was then about seventy-eight years of age. She left the following children: Daniel, Peter B., Patrick H., Maria Osborne, Nelson K., and Martha A, Noble.
On account of his service in the Revolution, Robert Foster, was granted 2666 2/3 acres of bounty land by the State of Virginia in 1783.
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On an application executed June 1, 1840, in Charlotte County, Virginia, the pension that was due Elizabeth as the widow of Robert Foster was allowed their above mentioned children.
The Revolutionary War records of this bureau fail to afford any information relative to a pension or bounty land having been claimed on account of the service of a James Foster who served as Captain in the Virginia Line.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner
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Springfield. Tennessee.  11/22/35.

Administrator of Pensions.

Dear Sir.
Is there a record of pension for Rev. service granted to Lt. Robt. Foster of Virginia on file in your office.   Robt married Elizabeth Jones of Amelia Co., Va.
Very Truly
Mrs. J.H. Woodard
Page 24

Mrs. Jim Woodard
Robertson County
Springfield, Tennessee

Springfield.Tennessee.11/22/35/

Administrator of Pensions.
Dear Sir.
Is there a record of pension granted to Capt. James Foster for Rev service on file in your office.  Capt. Jas. of Virginia.
Very Truly.
Mrs. J.H. Woodard
Page 25

Springfield. Tenn. 11/22/35/

Administrator of Pensions.
Dear Sir.
Is there a record of pension for Rev. service granted to John S. Gibson of Culpepper Co Virginia on file in your office.
Very truly
Mrs. J.H. Woodard
Page 26

Springfield.Tennessee.II/22/35

Administrator of Pensions.
Dear Sir.
Is there a rec ord [sic[ of pension for Rev.service [sic] granted to James Good (wife Sarah) of Virginia on file in your office.
Very Truly
Mrs. J. H. Woodard
Page 27

Springfield.Tennessee.II/22/35.
Administrator of Pensions.
Dear Sir.
Is there a record of pension for Rev.service [sic] granted to John Greene (wife Sarah) of North Carolina (or R.I.) on file in your office.
Very Truly
Mrs. J. H. Woodard
Page 28

Springfield.Tennessee.II/22/35

Administrator of Pensions.
Der Sir.
Is there a record of pension for Rev.service [sic] granted to Richard Green of N.C. born 1755. Richard was son of John Green and wife Sarah.  Richards wife was Mary (Woodberry_ Greene daughter of John & Margaret Woodberry.All of North Carolina.
Very Truly.
Mrs. J. H. Woodard
Page 29

Mrs. JIM WOODARD
ROBERTSON COUNTY
SPRINGFIELD, TENNESSEE

Springfield.Tenn. II/22/35

Administrator of Pensions.
Dear Sir.
Is there a record of pension for Rev. service granted to Daniel Holman on file in your office.He was from North Carolina.
Sincerely.
Mrs. J. H. Woodard
Page 30

Springfield.Tennessee.II/22/35.
Administrator of Pensions
Dear Sir.
Is there a record of pension for Rev. service granted to Robert Kerr of [sic] Karr (wife Margaret) of Wythe CO. Virginia on file in your office.
Very Truly.
Mrs. J. H. Woodard
Page 31

Springfield.Tenn. II/22/35/
Administrator of Pensions
Dear Sir.
Is there a record of pension for Rev. service granted to James Murrell of Albemarle Co. Va. on file in your office.
Very Truly
Mrs. J. H. Woodard
Page 32

Springfield.Tenn.11/22/35

Administrator of pensions

Dear Sir.
I almost feel that I should apologize for the number of names on the accompanying slips I am enclosing, but I am so anxious to get the information desired and thought maybe it could be supplied from your office.
I will be sincerely grateful for the data you may furnish.
Very Truly Yours
Mrs. J.H. Woodard
Page 33

Apartment 309
2145 C Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C.
October 6, 1932.

Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.

Dear Sir:
For historical purposes, I desire to obtain information in regard to Robert Foster, who served as a lieutenant in the Revolutionary War, 15th Virginia Regiment, also Captain James Foster of the same regiment, and James Quarles who served as a captain and later as major in the 2d Virginia State Regiment.
Any information which you may have regarding these two men or their descendants will be greatly appreciated.
Very truly yours,
(Miss) Violet Hopkins

[STAMP]
Received
Oct 10 1932
Receipt Section
Pension Files Sub-Division
Page 34

Springfield Tenn.
Aug 7-1928

Winfield Scott, Comr.
Bureau of Pensions-

My Dear Sir,
Yours of Aug 1-replying to my letter of inquiry of some time back, received & I thank you for your courtesy.  Since writing to your Dpt. I have accumulated a little data from family records bearing on this Lieut Robt Foster & Capt James Foster.  I note your report says Lieut Robt Foster enlisted in his brother James Foster's (Capt) Company.  Capt James Foster was
Page 35

7-page 2-date survey Nov. 10-1791.  Also this from War Department Washington D.C. under date May 25,1896 Heilsman's Historical Register of Officers of the Rev. Army  James Foster Va. (Captain) in 15th Va from Nov. 28-1776. died Nov 15-1777"  Also this from War Dpt in Washington, D.C.-
"James Foster served as Captain in the 15th Va. Reg of Continental troops commanded by Lieut Col James Innes, Rev. War-his name appears in the rolls from June 1777 to Nov. 1777 which bear the remarks appointed Nov. 28-17(76) died nov. 15-17(77).
Robert Foster Lieut did marry Elizabeth Jones but so far as I can find out only 2 children were born to them
Page 36

4
Hannah Foster (Wright) and James I Foster who married Mary Gibson.  He and Elizabeth Jones were only married from Apr. 5 1781 until his death May 22-1789.  After his death his widow married still another Foster, George, by him she had Daniel Peter B. Patrick, Maria, Nelson & Martha - so I can't see how these children could have had any share in a Pension from Robt Foster.  We have never believed that Elizabeth Jones two Foster husbands were related but maybe they were,  could I get anything from your Dpt. bearing on George Foster?  and it does seem that there would be something
Page 37

2
Lieut Robt. Foster's father - note this from paper of my cousin John Page's application for membership in S.O.A.R. 1904.
"Certified copy of records from office of Register of Lane Office in Richmond Va.  Land Office Military Warrant No 2633 to Robt Roster, heir at law of James Foster Capt was granted 4000 acres of land set apart for the officers & soldiers of Commonwealth of Va. dated Feby 25th 1784 & Land Office Military Warrant No. 624 to Lieut. Robt Foster was granted 2666 2/3 acres of land in consideration of his services for 3 years as Lieut in Virginia Continental lien, dated May 22-1783 & by further certified official copy of Land Grant by Governor of Ky - dated Dec 19 1796 to said Robt Foster for 6666 2/3 acres of land situated in southern part of Ky on Big Barren River-Ky.  Grants No.
Page 38

7- page 2. date Survey Nov. 10 - 1791."
Also this from War Department Washington D.C. under date May 25- 1896 Heitsman's Historical Register of Officers of the Rev, Army James Foster Va. (Captain) in 15th Va from Nov. 28-1776 died Nov 15- 1777" Also this from war Dpt in Washington D. C.-
"James Foster served as Captain in the 15th Va Reg of Continental troops Commanded by Lieut Col, James Innes Rev. War - his name appears in the rolls from June 1777 to Nov. 1777 which bear the remarks appointed Nov. 28-17(76) died Nov. 15-17(77).  Robt. Foster Lieut, did marry Elizabeth Jones but so far as i can find out only 2 children were born to them
Page 39

4
Hannah Foster (Wright) and James I Foster who married Mary Gibson. he and Elizabeth Jones were only married from Apr 5-1781 until his death May 22-1789.  After his death his widow married still another Foster, George, by him she had Daniel Peter B, Patrick, Maria, Nelson & Martha -- so I can't see how these children could have had any share in a Pension from Robt Foster.
We have never believed that Elizabeth Jones two Foster husbands were related- but maybe they were, could I get any thing from your Dpt bearing on George Foster? and it does seem that there would be something 
who mar - Elizabeth Foster
Page 40

Springfield, Tenn.
Aug 7- 1928

Winfield Scott Com
Bureau of Pensins [sic]
Dear Sir-
Please let me have all available information regarding Wm Gause Brunswick Co. North Carolina. I know he sat in the Assembly from that state but wish to know if possible who be married. his childrens names & infant everything that you can give me. For your courtesy I thank you.
Sincerely
Mrs. J. H. Woodard
Springfield
Tenn.
Page 41

5
about this Capt James Foster. 
I would like to ask also if James I Foster the son of Lieut Robt Foster was enlisted for the War of 1812.  I am enclosing on seperate sheet [illegible] another inquiry - & am more than anxius to hear from the Dpt.  I am aware of the great demand that is made in your Dpt. from all over the U.S. - still I would be most grateful for as early a reply to each of these inquiries as is possible.
Sincerely yours
Mrs. J.H. Woodard
Springfield, Tenn.
Page 42

Springfield Tenn.
Sept. 25 1927

Commissioner of Pensions,

Dear Sir,
Will you please give me military records of Lieutenant Robert Foster (son of Capt James Foster) Revolutionary soldier Virginia Continental Line.  also any other data that may be available regarding him.
Sincerely
(Mrs.) Bertha G Woodard
Springfield
Tennessee.
Page 43

Springfield Tenn.
Sept. 25 - 1927
Commissioner of Pensions
Dear Sir;
Will you please give me military record of Capt. James Foster, 15th Virginia. Revolutionary soldier - also any other data that may be available regarding him-
Sincerely
(Mrs) Bertha G. Woodard
Springfield
Tenn.

U. S. PENSION OFFICE
SEP 28 1927
Page 44

1928, Aug 1. hist. to Mrs. Bertha G. Woodard MCS
1928 - Sept. 4 - Mrs. J. P. Woodard advised rel. to bro. & Wife etc. MMHF
1929. Apr. 6, hist to Mrs. Lulu P. Briggs. See case John Quarles, R. 17250, MCS
1932 Oct. 21. hist. to Miss Violet Hopkins. M.C.S.
1936, Jan 22, hist to Mrs. J. H. Woodard M.C.S.

Rev
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 19,270
Elizabeth Foster
Widow of
Robert Foster
Lt. Rev. War
Act: July 7th 1838
Index:-Vol. A, Page 248
Arrangement of 1870.
Page 45

State of Virginia
Charlotte Ct. House
November 23d. 1840

Sir,
Your letter of the 22d October 1840, returning me "the letter of the Hon. James Jones, in order that the facts therein stated relative to the service and marriage of Robert Foster, late husband of Elizabeth Foster, deceased, may be embodied in the shape of an affidavit, and properly authenticated," was duly received.
Enclosed you will find the affidavit of Hon. James Jones, duly authenticated, which I received by mail from him this morning.  He has made a slight alteration as to the year he met with Lt. Foster and wife, which I presume, upon further reflection he thought more accurate.  In other respects, it is substantially the same with his letter, on which, I requested him by letter, to make his affidavit.
I am very respectfully
Your most obt sevt &c
Wm. J.B. Bedford

J.L. Edwards Esq
Comr. of Pensions
War Department
Page 46

State of Virginia
Charlotte Ct. House
August 5th 1840-

Sir,
Your letter of July 24th relative to the claim of the Heirs of Mrs. Elizabeth Foster, widow of Robert Foster, deceased, has been received.
Enclosed I send a certified copy of the order of Charlotte Court, in regard to the identity of Mrs. Foster, as widow of Robert Foster, who was Ensign & Lieutenant in the Virginia Continental line, which, I trust, will prove satisfactory-
By reference to the new arrangement of the Army at Cumberland Old Ct. House, September 2d, 1782, the Department will find that said Lieutenant Robert Foster, was superseded.
I am very respectfully
Your most obt. sevt &c
Wm. J.B. Bedford

J.L. Edwards esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 47

[STAMP]
Richmond Va.
Aug 26

37 1/2

Wm JB Bedford esqr
Charlotte CH
Page 48

I do hereby certify that Robert Foster served three years successively in the Virginia continental line as a lieutenant.

E. Meade

Executive Department
August 26 1840
The foregoing is a true copy of a paper filed in this department
Wm H Richardson  [illegible] comr.
Page 49

It appears by the printed list [illegible] R Foster drew in 1783 2222 2/3 ac.  No other paper filed than the preceding.
Page 50

State of Virginia:  Charlotte County to wit:
I Thomas Williams of Charlotte, do hereby certify, that I was acquainted with Mrs. Elizabeth Foster, decd, late of Charlotte, (formerly of Amelia and widow of Robert Foster, decd) and recollect, that she departed this life on or about the 25th day of June, 1839, at the house of her son-in-law John Osborne of Charlotte;  and that at the time of her death, she still was unmarried and continued a widow.
I recollect the facts well, from the circumstance that I made her coffin - and lived near the family.
Thos. William  x his mark

Virginia:  Charlotte County to wit:
This day Thomas Williams came before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid and made oath to the above certificate subscribed by him, my in presence.  I further certify that he is a credible person, and his statements entitled to full confidence.  Given under my hand this 1st day of June, 1840.
Jos M Daniel J.P.

State of Virginia, Charlotte County  to wit:
I Winslow Robinson Clerk of the County Court of the County aforesaid do hereby certify that Joseph M Daniel is an acting justice of the peace in and for the said County duly commissioned and qualified, and that the signature annexed purporting to be his is genuine.  Given under my hand and the seal of my office this 4th day of July 1840 in the 65th year of the  Commonwealth.
Winslow Robinson  C

[SEAL]
Page 51

State of Virginia
Charlotte Ct. House
July 7th 1840
Sir,
I send you enclosed the Declaration of the Children of Elizabeth Foster, widow of Lieutenant Robert Foster, deceased, of Amelia, for a Pension under the Act of Congress passed July 7th 1838
The Declaration has been drawn conformably to instructions furnished me, in your letter dated March 12th last, in reply to mine upon the subject of the claim of the Children of Mrs. Elizabeth Foster, deceased
If the letter of the Hon. James Jones filed with the papers, is not satisfactory to the Department in regard to the date of the Marriage and death of Lt. Robert Foster, I will endeavour to obtain the evidence of his Sister Mrs. Bacon, (referred to in his letter) on the subject - The distance to her house, alone, has prevented me - I trust however, the letter of Dr. Jones will prove satisfactory
I am very respectfully
your Most Obt. Sert &c
Wm. J. B. Bedford
J. L. Edwards esq
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Page 52

Heirs Robt Foster dc.
Va
Page 53

State of Virginia
Charlotte Ct. House
August 30th 1840
Sir,
yours of the 12th instant, relative to the claim of Heirs of Elizabeth Foster, widow of Lieutenant Robert Foster of the Virginia Continental line, has been received
Enclosed you will find a copy of evidence filed in the Executive Dept. of Virginia on application of said Lt. Foster for land Bounty - The Warrant issued to him in 1783
I have consulted with the Heirs, in regard to the disposition of said Land Bounty - They have always understood that he sold it, for they were too young to know any thing about it
As there was only one Lieutenant Robert Foster in the Virginia Continental line, I trust, that the enclosed with evidence heretofore sent, will satisfy the Department as to service and identity
I am very respectfully
your Most Obt. Sert &c
Wm. J. B. Bedford
J. L. Edwards esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Page 54

Office Gao 12c
Mar 11
W. J. B. Bedford esq
Charlotte C.H
Va
Mail

Robt. Foster
Page 55

[illegible] Office Va
1840 March 11th

Sir

In answer to your letter of the 29, I have to inform you that I have caused examinations to [illegible] made between the years 1780 & 1794 inclusive (it being the period referred to [illegible] in your memo) and can find no such [illegible] as Robert Foster to the [illegible], for marriage license.

Very Respectfully
E. G. Leigh

Wm J. B. Bedford
Page 56

This is to Certify, That it appears from a List in this Office of such Officers and Soldiers of the Virginia Continental Line, during the Revolutionary War, as settled their Accounts, and received Certificates for the balance of their Full Pay, according to an Act of Assembly, passed the November Session, 1781, that a Certificate issued on the 19th day of May 1783, in the name of Robert Foster as Lieut. of Infantry for US 5.2, which certificate appears to have been delivered to himself and was given for services prior to the 1st January, 1782. 
To [illegible] pay as Ens from 21 Apl 77 to 20th Apl 78 and as Lt. from 20 Apl 78 to 31st December 1781.
Given under my hand at the Auditor's Office, Richmond, this 5th day of March 1840.
Jas. E. Heath Auditor

{No Seal of Office.]
Page 57

Capt. Le Ap 20 - 510
Sup  530
Page 58

Elizabeth Foster
Page 59

At a court held for Charlotte County August 4th, 1840.
On monition satisfactory evidence was adduced in Court to prove that Elizabeth Foster who departed this life at the house of John Osborne in the county of Charlotte on the 25th day of June 1839, was the identical widow of Robert Foster, deceased late of Amelia County Virginia, who was an ensign and Lieutenant in the Virginia continental line in the war of the Revolution. That said widow, at the time of the death of her husband said Robert Foster was a resident of Amelia County, and afterwards resided in the counties of Prince Edward, Halifax, and Charlotte, in which latter county she died the date and place aforesaid ordered that the same be certified to the war department.

Winslow Robinson
Page 60

Nottoway County April 2nd a840
(Thursday)

Sir - 

Your letter dated March 19th did not get to me until the 24th of that month, and in less than 48 hours after its reception I was laid prostrate by attack of a severe fever which prevented my waiting until today. I have intended at any rate to wait till today our Court day in expectation that I might see and converse with someone who might know something of Mr. James Foster. But I am hindered from attending Court on account of extreme weakness.

I have had no difficulty in recollecting to my satisfaction (I mean as to their truth) some facts relatively to Foster's marriage & death but they are not exactly specific and definite as to dates. I recollect very well that the first time I saw Cap. James Foster was at my father's house in the year 1780 on the occasion of a new grist mill being for the first time set into operation. He then wore a military costume and I was told he was a prisoner [?] on his parole. He was then unmarried. The next time I remember to have seen him was at a wedding of an uncle of mine (I think) in 1781-2. He was then with his wife, who was sister to the lady my uncle married. Capt. Foster then, I must think, was married just at the conclusion of the American Revolutionary War. I cannot specify dates more accurately. I have a sister older by 2 years than myself living at present immediately on the road heading from a place called "The City" and more than a mile from the place in the upper parts of Mecklenburg, in what is called The Fannywood settlement,
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(Mrs. Bacon formerly the wife of Edward Jones of the same part of that County) who might probably be more specific respecting dates of that marriage. Her first husband was the brother of Mrs. Foster, and was manager of the Estate after F. Death. Cap. Foster died in the year 1789 at Amelia Court house, he being then tenant of the Court House Tavern. He was home on his death bed. It was in the Spring of the year. In respect to this event I know that if it did not occur that year it must have been the year before (1788).

This is the amount, sir, of what I believe to be here in relation to the subjects of inquiry in your letter. I have not given the formality of an oath to it because I am utterly unable to attend the Clerks office today in order to affix the seal of the county to it. I thought it best to send you this letter now for your future guidance. My sister Bacon knows not more when the subject than myself this is the only person who is entitled from circumstances to that knowledge - 

Yours respectfully
James Jones


April 11th 1840.

At the request of Mr. Wm. J. B. Bedford I have revised the above letter and find I have twice written the name of "James Foster" instead of "Robert Foster" as intended. This mistake arose, as I now very will recollect, by mind recuring at the time to his brother Cap. James Foster (under whom he enlisted & served in the American Army) and with whom I was well acquainted. Robert was younger than James and received the Commission of Lieutenant under James and they both entered the service at once as I was informed.

I was qualified as Magistrate of Nottoway County very many years ago but was very shortly after an [illegible] elected to the State Legislature where I served many years, then is the state council from whence I was removed to the office of Chief of the Medical staff in the militia army of this state. Then I went into an [illegible] for several years. After which I ceased to act as Justice of the
Page 62

Peace except on very particular occasions and [illegible] the Court to mill over in his appointments to this specifically in the regular routine. I have not acted at all for many years in any way. I thought it best to say this much.

James Jones

Nottoway County (Va)

Before me Benjamin C. Jones a Justice of the Peace for the County aforesaid personally appeared Doct. James Jones of the aforesaid County & made oath that he was well acquainted with Robert Foster who was an officer in the American revolutionary army and held the commission of Lieutenant in the company commanded by my brother Cap. James Foster. That this officiant saw the said Robert Foster in or about the year 1780 while he was a prisoner on parole; at that time he was not married; but subsequently he will remember to have in company with said Robert with his wife (who was a relation of the officiant) about the year 1782-3; that after his marriage this officiant was much in his company and he believes the said Foster died in the Spring of the year 1788 or thereabouts at Amelia Old Court House where he had lived a year or more as tenant of the Court House Tavern. This officiant saw him on his death bed and believes he is not far wrong in fixing ton the date as given above. Given under my hand and seal this 20th day of November 1840

Benjamin C Jones (seal)

State of Virginia, Nottoway County

I Francis Fitzgerald Clerk of the County Court of the aforesaid County of Nottoway, in the state of Virginia, do truly certify, that Benjamin C. Jones who hath given the preceding certificate, is and was at the time of signing the same, an acting Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid, and that, full faith and credit should be given to all his official acts as such. In testimony whereof I have hereto subscribe my name.
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and fixed the seal of the said Court this 22nd day of November Eighteen Hundred and forty

Francis Fizgerald


[envelope]

Nottoway

To
William J. B. Bedford
Charlotte C. H.
Va

by mail}