Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 30287, William Bruce, N.C.

Page 1

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

[3-1776] 

SERVICE
N. C.
Bruce, William

NUMBER
S.30287

CONTENTS

[stamped] This Envelope Includes FINAL PAYMENT VOUCHER Received from GAO

Page 2

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

[left side of page] [Illegible words crossed out]
[written sideways] Date of death not on AB

[right side of page] 1930
Kentucky
William Bruce
of Lincoln Co. in the State of Kent. [Kentucky]
who was a prv [Private] in the co [Company] commanded
by Captain White of the regt [Regiment] commanded by Col. Eaton in the N. C.
line for 9 months

Inscribed on the Roll of Kent. [Kentucky]
at the rate of 30 Dollars - Cents per annum,
to commence on the 4th day of March 1831.

Certificate of Pension issued the 22 day of Augt [August] 1833 and [sent to] Thomas Helm Stanford

Arrears to the 4th of March  60--
Semi=anl. [annual] allowance ending 4 Sept.  15--
75—

{Revolutionary Claim}
{Act June 7, 1832}

Recorded by Danl Boyd, Clerk
Book E Vol. 7 Page 4

Page 3

[stamped] Final Payment Voucher
Received from GAO

Page 4

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

Louisville, Kentucky, 14 March 1843 
Received of G W Morewether Agent for paying pensions, Fifteen dollars, 8 Cents, being for 6 months, 1 day, Pension, due to William Bruce decd [deceased] from the 4th day of Sept. 1841 to the 5 day of March 1842 for which I have signed duplicate receipts. 
$15 8/100 G H McKinny [Illegible initials] 

[written sideways] 7 June 1837

Page 5

State of Kentucky,}
Lincoln County} Sct. 
On this 27th day of August 1832, personally appeared in open Court before the Hon. John L Bridges, Judge of the circuit court for Lincoln County, now sitting, William Bruce, a resident citizen of Lincoln County, aged 73 years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7th 1832. 

He states that he entered the service of the United States, being drafted, in the year 1780 under the command of Capt. John White; and marched from Warren County in the state of North Carolina, where he then resided, to Camden [SC], under the command of Gen’l. [General Horatio] Gates as commanding General. Under this draft he entered the service for 3 months and served out said time. This affiant was not in the Battle at Gates’ defeat [Battle of Camden, 16 Aug 1780], but was near there being detailed to do certain duty with the baggage wagons [wagons]. 

That he again entered the service in Feb’y [February] 1781 for 3 months, and marched from Warren County in the State of North Carolina, under a draft, to Guilford Court house under the command of the same Captain. The commanding General under this second tour was Gen’l [General Nathanael] Greene, and the Colo. who commanded the Regiment to which this affiant was attached was a Continental officer by the name of [Thomas] Eaton. This affiant on s’d. [said] tour, belonged to a company which was ordered to march in front of the main army. He states that he was in the battle at Guilford [15 Mar 1781], and that Gen’l [General] Greene was the commanding General at said Battle. 

That in the same year 1781 he again was drafted for 3 months, and marched from Warren County to the lower part of the state of North Carolina-

Page 6

That the troops to which he belonged were marched from point to point during s’d. [said] tour, in order to protect that part of the state, as Lord Cornwallis had passed near there a few weeks before – & the British had a garrison near there. 

The commanding General on this last tour was Gen’l [General Richard] Caswell. 

He states that he was born in Richmond County in the State of Virginia, but was drafted as above stated in the state of North Carolina where he then resided. He now resides in Lincoln County State of Kentucky, and has resided there for more than 30 years. 

He has no documentary evidence in his possession in relation to his service, nor does he know of any person residing in the Kentucky, who can testify as to his service. 

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. 

Sworn to & subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
William Bruce

We Thomas Helm in Lincoln County in the State of Kentucky and James Withers residing in said County and State, hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with William Bruce who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be 73 years of age, that he is reputed and believed in the Neighbourhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution and that we concur in that opin- [opinion]

Page 7

-ion [opinion] Sworn to and subscribed the day & year aforesaid-
James Withers 
Thomas Helm 

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 & served as he states. And the Court further certifies that it appears to them that Thomas Helm who has signed the preceding certificate is a Clergyman resident in the County of Lincoln and that James Withers is also a resident of said County, is a credible person and their statement is entitled to credit 
John L. Bridges 
Circuit Judge 

State of Kentucky Lincoln County & Circuit Court

I Thomas Helm, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lincoln County do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of William Bruce for a Pension. I do further certify that John Bridges whose name is subscribed to the above certificate is the acting Judge of the Lincoln Circuit Court [duly] commissioned as such. 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office, this 27th day of August 1832 
Thomas Helm Clk [Clerk] L. Co.

Page 8

At a County Court held for Lincoln County on the 22nd of April 1833…it being a Court of Record by law.
The amended declaration of Wm. Bruce according to the requisition of the War Department in answering the 26 and 7 interrogatories.
Have you any record of your age? 
Answer No 
Did you ever receive a discharge - Answer I did receive a discharge, from Col. whose name I forget, but only for two tours- 
He refers to Mr. Bright, the Revd [Reverend] Mr. Haggins and Thomas Helm the Clerk of the Cirt [Circuit] Court for his Character 
William Bruce 

[written sideways] 11923 William Bruce’s application for a pension

State of Kentucky. Lincoln County Sct: 
We John S. Higgins a clergyman residing in the afd [aforesaid] County and Henry Bright residing in the same county do hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Wm. Bruce the applicant and have been for many years and that we believe him to be nearly seventy four years old that he is reputed and believed in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the Revolution & in that opinion we fully concur. 
John S. Higgins 
Henry Bright

Page 9

11923
William Bruce
Kentucky
from 1780 private
9 months 
$30
11.12.19

Thomas Helm
Stanford K

Page 10

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

BRIEF in the case of William Bruce, of the County of Lincoln in the State of Kentucky

(Act 7th JUNE, 1832.)

1.  Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge: Court

2.  If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?

3.  How old is he: 73

4.  State his service, as directed in the form annexed.

[column headings: Period. Duration of Service. Rank. Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served.]
Entered in 1780 --3 [months] private Gen. Gates, Green Capt. White Col. Eaton

Draft 1781 --3 [months] “ [private] Genl. Caswell

“ [1781] --3 [months] “ [private]

5.  In what battles was he engaged? Guilford

6.  Where did he reside when he entered the service? Warren County, N. C.

7.  Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? Tradition

8.  Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? No Clergyman

I Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.

Chs Whorrest
Examining Clerk.

Page 11

Wm Bruce
claim
$15.08
No 9

[stamped] FINAL PAYMENT VOUCHER
Received from GAO

7 June 1832

Louisville, Ky
First gr. 1843
B - 75
Track-98

Page 12

Kentucky Lincoln County Towit October Term 1842 

The last will and Testament of William Bruce decd [deceased] which was heretofore proven and admitted to word was again exhibited into Court and William Bruce and Henry Bruce the Executors therein named appeared in Court and made oath as the Law directs and executed bond in the penalty of Ten Thousand dollars with John Bright and Henry Bright decd [deceased] similar correspondence according to Law. Ordered that a certificate be granted to them for obtaining a certificate of the probate of said will in due form of Law. 

Kentucky Lincoln County Towit: February Term 1843 
Ordered that it be certified to the Territory of the War department that it was this day proven to the satisfaction of the Court by the oaths of Thomas Bruce and James Bruce are creditable and respectable Witnesses that William Bruce a pensioner of the United States departed this life on the 5th day of March 1842 and that the said William Bruce is the identical person named in an original Certificate now shown to the Court bearing date the 22nd day of August One Thousand eight hundred & Thirty Three Signed by Lew Cass Secretary of war and recorded in the pension office in Book E. Vol 7 page 4 by Danl Boyd Clerk Granting to the said William Bruce a pension of Thirty dollars per annum. Numbered 19301 and it was also proven to the satisfaction of the court by the same witnesses that the said William Bruce departed this life without having any widow. 

Commonwealth of Kentucky Lincoln County Towit 
I Thomas Helm Clerk of the Court of Lincoln county certify that the two preceding orders are truly transcribed from the words of my office. 

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of my office & Subscribed my name this 4th day of March 1843 

Thomas Helm Clerk of 
The Court of Lincoln County 
By G. H. McKinney D.C. [Deputy Clerk]

Page 13

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

Know all men by these presents, That I, William Bruce one of the Executors of William Bruce decd [deceased] late a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States, do hereby constitute and appoint George H. McKinney my true and lawful Attorney for me, and in my name to receive from the Agent of the United States for paying Pensions in Louisville & State of Kentucky, my pension from the 4th day of September of March 1841, to the 5th day 1842 
WITNESS my hand and seal, this 10th day of March 1843. 
Sealed and delivered in presence of A Prentiss   William Bruce {SEAL.}
O. P. McRoberts one of the Executors of William Bruce deceased

State of Kentucky,} 
Lincoln County.} SS. 
BE IT KNOWN, That on the 10th day of March 1843, before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for said county, personally appeared William Bruce one of the Executor of William Bruce decd [deceased] above named, and acknowledged the foregoing Power of Attorney to be his act and deed. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, the day and year last above mentioned. 
A. Prentiss J. P. 

State of Kentucky, Lincoln County, Sct. 
I, Thomas Helm Clerk of the Court of Lincoln County, certify, that Asahel Prentiss is a magistrate as above, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his, is genuine. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed my seal of office, and subscribed [word covered over by seal] this 10th day of March in the year 1843 
Thomas Helm Clerk of the Court of Lincoln County. 
By G. H. McKinney D.C.

[covered over by seal - State of Kent] ucky,}
Lincoln County.} SS.
BE IT KNOWN, That on the 10th day of March 1843, before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for said county, personally appeared George H. McKinney the Attorney named in the foregoing Power of Attorney, and made oath that the same was not given him by reason of any sale, transfer, or mortgage of the Pension, or arrears of Pension therein authorized to be received by him. 
George H. McKinney
Sworn and subscribed the day and year last above} 
mentioned, before me.} 
A. Prentiss J. P.}

N.B. The word [^ #] Lexington erased & Louisville interlined before signing 
NOTE. -- This affidavit must be signed by the Attorney.  A. Prentiss JP

Page 14

[typed form]

Rev. & 1812 
Wars Section 

AWF:mlb 

May 29, 1930

Mrs. G. G. Compton 
224 A Street, S. E. 
Washington, D. C. 

Dear Madam: 

I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, S. 30287, it appears that William Bruce was born in Richmond County, Virginia, no specific date of birth given.

While residing in Warren County, North Carolina, he enlisted and served as a private with the North Carolina Troops, as follows: 

In 1780, three months in Captain John White's Company; from February 1781, three months in Captain John White's Company, Colonel Eaton's Regiment and was at the battle of Guilford; later in 1781, three months, names of officers not given. 

He was allowed pension on his application executed August 27, 1832, at which time he was living in Lincoln County, Kentucky, aged seventy-three years. 

There are no data as to his family.

In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, name of person paid and possibly the date of death of the above noted William Bruce, you should apply to the Records Division, General Accounting Office, this city, citing all of the following data: William Bruce, Certificate No. 19301, issued August 22, 1833, rate, $30 per annum, commenced March 4, 1831, Act June 7, 1832, Kentucky Agency. 

Very truly yours 

E. W. MORGAN 
Acting Commissioner

Page 15

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

[left side of page] 1917 Oct. 9 Hist. & check for $1 returned to Mrs. Kate G. Gibbs ell carbon ¢
1917 Oct. 20 Check for $1 returned to Mrs. Kate G. Gibbs & infd [informed] no family data
1930 – May 29 – Hist. to Mrs. G G Compton Ewy
1931 – June 20 – Hist. to G G Compton Ewy
1936 – June 12 – “ “ [Hist. to] P. W. Bruce Ewy
1936 – Sept. 1 – Photos mailed to P. W. Bruce – ILL
1936 – April 6 – Hist. to Grace G. Compton AWY

[right side of page] 30287
Revy INVALID

File No. 30,287
William Bruce
Pri Rev. War

Act: June 7th, 1832
Index: - Vol. 2, Page 53

[Arrangement of 1870.]

Page 16

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

Payments to be made 
at Lexington 
by the Prest [President] of W B Bank 
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of Kentucky 

[stamped] FINAL PAYMENT VOUCHER Received from GAO

Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book E Vol. 7 
Page 4 by – Dan. Boyd
Clerk

Page 17

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

WAR DEPARTMENT. 

Revolutionary Claim. 

I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June, 1832, William Bruce of the State of Kentucky who was a private in the Army of the Revolution is entitled to receive ---Thirty ---dollars ---- and cents per annum, during his natural lie, commencing on the 4th of March, 1831, and payable semi-annually on the 4th of March, and 4th of September, in every year. 

GIVEN at the War Office of the United States, this 22nd day of August one thousand eight hundred and thirty three 
Lew Cass 
Secretary of War.

Examined and}
Countersigned.} 
J L Edwards 
Commissioner of Pensions.

Page 18

And the Court do hereby declare there opinion after the investigation of the matter, & after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the war department that the applicant William Bruce was a revolutionary soldier & served as he states. and the court further certifies that John S Higgins who has signed one of the certificates is a Clergyman resident of Lincoln County is a credible person & that Henry Bright who has also Signed said certificate is a resident of Lincoln County is a credible person; -that Thomas Helm who has signed the certificate, immediately preceding & his opinion of the court, is the Clerk of the Lincoln County Court that he is a credible person. & that the statements of [Illegible] Higgins, Bright & Helm are entitled to credit.
J.B. Camden JP
Wm Shanks JP
Elijah Bailey

State of Kentucky Lincoln County Towit
I Thomas Helm Clerk of the Court of Lincoln County, do hereby certify that the foregoing six pages of written paper contains the original proceedings, part of which were held in the Circuit Court & part in the County Court; so far as relates to the amended declaration & in the matter of the application of William Bruce for a pension, that John B. Camden William Shanks & Elijah Bailey whose names are subscribed above, are Justices of the peace in Lincoln County & composed the court at the time when the last application was made, that their signatures annexed are their genuine signatures. In

Page 19

Kentucky Lincoln County Sct 
I Thomas Helm a citizen of Lincoln County Kentucky do declare upon oath that I have been intimately acquainted with William Bruce the applicant for a pension for more than twenty years / he having resided for that length of time in the immediate neighbourhood of my father, that he has at various times given to me a history of the manner in which the war of the revolution in the southern States was conducted, & of the battles & skirmishes in which he was engaged & more particularly the battle of Guilford. - He states that he believes that the applicant cant [cannot] have had no notice to misrepresent those transactions, as the communications were made to this affiant at various times & occasions many years previous to the passage of the act of Congress of 7th of 1832, that the statements made by the applicant in his written declaration, one in unison with those previously made to his affiant - the applicant is a man of good moral character & his statements are entitled to credit. –
Thomas Helm

Page 20

Wm [William] Bruce
Pension Claim

Page 21

[In] testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name & affixed the seal of my office this 23rd day May 1833. 

Thomas Helm Clerk 
Lincoln County Court

Page 22

Ky Act June 17
Towit

[written sideways] Stanford Ky Free
Honble [Honorable] Lewis Cass
Secretary of War
Washington City

Enclosed is the pension claim of Will Bruce
Towit

Page 23

Stanford Lincoln County Ky 
June 3rd 1833 

Hon. Lewis Cass 
Sir, at the request of William Bince I enclose to you his application for a pension, as amended since it was rejected at the war department. I will thank to have it examined & herewith to me the results as early as convenient 

Respectfully yours 
Thomas Helm

Page 24

[written sideways] Ky Act June 17

Stanford Ky Free
Honble [Honorable] Lewis Cass June 9
Secretary of War
Washington City

Enclosed is the pension claim of Will Bruce

Page 25

Ky 
April 1837 
06

Record Vol. 41, P 376

Page 26

War Dept. Pen. office 

Sir
In answer to your letter of the 24th ult respecting the case William Bruce of Lincoln County, I have to inform you that he has been allowed a pension for nine month service which is all that he alleges to have performed. He is not entitled to [anymore?]

Hon R P. Letcher Lancaster Ken [Kentucky]

Page 27

Wm. [William] Bruce papers

Page 28

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims, of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of Wm. Bruce --- which require further proof or explanation.

1.  Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? yes

II.  Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? yes

III.  If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so?

IV.  Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served? yes

V.  *Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled? yes

VI.  Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations? yes

VII.  Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? yes

VIII.  Has the Court given their opinion? yes

IX.  Has the Clerk given his certificate? yes

X.  Is the Clerk’s seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal? yes

Page 29

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

2

XI.  Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolutionary service? No Clergyman, [her ?] citizens

XII.  If the clergyman’s affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtaining it? No

XIII.  If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one living witness, has he stated in his declaration that such proof cannot be had? yes

XIV.  +If the applicant’s name is not found on the rolls of military service, has he produced a witness or witnesses as to his service?  
If he has produced direct proof as to service, has the magistrate who administered the oath, certified to the credibility of the witness or witnesses?
Has the proper officer certified to the official character and signature of the magistrate as the regulations direct?

XV.  Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant’s service?

XVI.  Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct? yes

XVII.  Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily? And, if not, which of them is not answered? 2, 6, 7 not answered

EXPLANATORY NOTES.
*QUERE V.  In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
“Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades; For          year             months, and               days, I served as a                For          months and              days, I served as a             ; and for such service I claim a pension.

Page 30

[Typed form]

3

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service.  The use of the phrase about three or four months is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectional.  Some persons who apply for pensions merely state they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours; the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service.  This form of a declaration is highly objectionable.  It must in every case be clearly shewn under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
+QUERE XIV. Proof of Service.
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimants entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line in which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
+QUERE XVI. Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other paper authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
In every case where the Clerk of the Court, or other certifying officer, has no public seal of office, the certificate of a member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.

Page 31

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

September 1, 1936, 
BA-J/ILL

Mr. P.W. Bruce 
1135 Grand Avenue 
Topeka, Kansas. 

Dear Sir: 

You are furnished herewith, as requested by you, photostatic copies of original papers on file in Revolutionary War claims for pension based upon service in that war, as follow: 
George Bruce, S. 39212 - 6 pages 
William Bruce, S. 30287 - 10 pages 
William Bruce, S. 3053 - 6 pages. 

Very truly yours, 

A. D. HILLER, 
Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator.

Page 32

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

BA-J/ILL 
Rev. & 1812 
No. 340 

August 25          6.

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section    Navy, Branch 970
XXXXX 

Rev. War claim for pension of William 
Bruce, S. 20287          Actual    1 of each page

[written sideways] includes all but the old office printed briefs

$2.50                 10 pages

Kindly leave margin of 1 ½ inch at top of each page and return papers in case in folder with corresponding name and number. 
Chief, Rev. & 1812 Wars Section.

Page 33

[typed form]

August 3, 1938.

BA-J/MMHF/ILL 
George Bruce 
S. 39212 
William Bruce 
S. 30287 
William Bruce 
S. 3053

Mr. P.W. Bruce 
1135 Grand Avenue 
Topeka, Kansas. 

Dear Sir: 

Reference is made to your letter in which you request the photostatic copies of papers on file in the claims for pension based upon service in the Revolutionary War of George Bruce, William Bruce of North Carolina and William Bruce of Virginia. 

The number of pages to be copied in each case described by you are:
George Bruce, S. 39312 - 6 pages 
William Bruce, S. 30287 - 10 pages 
William Bruce, S. 3053 - 6 pages. 

Photostatic copies are furnished at the rate of 25¢ a page, making the total cost of these Copies, $5.50. Remittance should be made by money order drawn to the order of the Treasurer of the United States.

Very truly yours, 

A. D. HILLER, 
Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator.

Page 34

[typed form]

June 12, 1936

William Bruce-S.30287 
BA-J/AWF

Mr. P. W. Bruce 
1135 Grand Avenue 
Topeka, Kansas 

Dear Sir: 

The data which follow were obtained from papers on file in pension claim, S. 30287, based upon the service of William Bruce during the War of the Revolution. 

William Bruce was born in Richmond County, Virginia, date not given, nor are the names of his parents stated. 

While residing in Warren County, North Carolina, he served in 1780, three months in Captain John White's company, was not in the battle of Gates' Defeat, but was near, having been detailed to duty with the baggage wagons. He enlisted sometime in February, 1781, served three months in Captain John White's company, under Colonel Eaton, and was in the battle of Guilford Court House. Later in 1781, he served three months under General Caswell. His service was as a private and with the North Carolina troops. 

He was allowed pension on his application executed August 27, 1832, then aged seventy-three years and a resident of Lincoln County, Kentucky, where he had lived about thirty years. 

The papers in this claim contain no data relative to the family of the soldier, William Bruce. 

If you desire information in regard to the last payment of pension, name and address of person paid,

Page 35

[typed form]

and possibly the date of death of this pensioner, you should apply to The Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, Washington, D. C., and give the following—
William Bruce 
Certificate # 19301 
Issued August 22, 1833 
Rate $30.00 per annum 
Commenced March 4, 1831 
Act of June 7, 1832 
Kentucky Agency. 

Very truly yours 

A. D. HILLER 
Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator

Page 36

[typed form]

June 10, 1936 

XXXXXXXXXXXX
BA-J/MMHF/eel

Mr. P.W. Bruce 
1135 Grand Avenue 
Topeka, Kansas 

Dear Sir: 

Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War records of all soldiers of North Carolina, with the surname Bruce. 

There are only three claims for pension on file based upon service of soldiers with your surname, of North Carolina, those of George and William, who served in the North Carolina Troops and William, who served in the Virginia Troops. Their records are given herein as found in the claims for pension based upon their service in the Revolutionary War. 

Very truly yours 

A. D. HILLER 
Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator.

Page 37

[typed form]

June 20, 1931 

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section AWF: MLB

G. G. Compton 
Orleans 
Indiana 

Dear Sir: 

You are advised that it appears from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, S. 30287, that William Bruce was born in Richmond County, Virginia, no specific date of birth given. 

While residing in Warren County, North Carolina, he enlisted and served as a private with the North Carolina troops, as follows: in 1780, three months in Captain John White's company; from February, 1781, three months in Captain John White's company, Colonel Eaton's regiment, and was at the battle of Guilford; later in 1781, three months, names of officers not given. 

He was allowed pension on his application executed August 27, 1832, at which time he was living in Lincoln County, Kentucky, aged seventy-three years. 

There are no data as to his family. 

In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, name of person paid, and possibly the date of death of the above noted William Bruce, you should apply to The Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, this city, citing the following data: - William Bruce, Certificate 19301, issued August 22, 1833, rate $30 per annum, commenced March 4, 1831, Act of June 7, 1832, Kentucky Agency. 

The Revolutionary War records of this bureau fail to afford any information in regard to either James Bruce of Isaac Bruce.

Page 38

[typed form]

You are requested to furnish this bureau any information you may have in your possession relative to James Bruce who, you state, was receiving a pension while residing in Harrison County, Indiana. 

The War of 1812 records of this bureau fail to afford any information in regard to pension having been claimed on account of the services of William Cook as described by you. 

Very truly yours 

E. W. MORGAN 
Acting Commissioner

Page 39

[upside down circular stamp with Numbers 1 -12 around the outside] RECEIVED MAR 4 1938 MAIL SUB-DIV, VETS. ADM. READER #16

Orleans – Ind - Feb. 28-/38

Pension Office- 
Washington D.C. 

Dear Sirs –
What have you for William Bruce - Bounty Warrant, War 4 - 108 Rev. soldier of from Va. If you have any pension papers that would give me information please inform me—also could I get information from Frankfort Ky-court records? would his bounty warrant be filed there - kindly let me know what you have in William Bruces name, that would assist me in establishing his records - also of James Bruce a brother of his; they were - in Va.- moved to Nelson Co. Ky. about 1784 - as my records show - I am compiling a family history and desire authentic records, Thanking you for any information you can furnish me.- 

Respectfully
(Mrs.) Grace G. Compton 

P. S.
Would I be able to get help from the “Old Records Division” if so are they still in the same building they occupied in 1932, where I had knew them to be. Thanks -- G.G.C.

Page 40

[typed form, with handwritten responses Letterhead]

[left side of letterhead] National Trustee and State President Colonel William A. Biby National Reserve Life Bldg. Topeka, Kansas Vice-President Judge Edwin A. Austin Topeka, Kansas District Vice-Presidents Otis S. Allen, Topeka Prof. C. S. Skilton, Lawrence Carl E. Zeigler, Coffeyville Edward W. Carruth, Herington E. W. Evans, Wichita M. B. Van De Mark, Concordia W. J. Duval, Hutchinson 

[center of letterhead] Kansas Society Sons of the American Revolution 

[right side of letterhead] P. W. Bruce, Secretary 1135 Grand Avenue Topeka, Kansas Sydney Smith, Treasurer Pope W. Allen, Ass't Treas. -- Bonds Joe Nickell, Registrar Capper Publications Topeka, Kansas Rev. Aaron Breck, Chaplain Arthur J. Carruth, Jr., Publicity Topeka State Journal Topeka, Kansas E. E. Kelley, Historian Garden City, Kansas 

Topeka, Kansas, April 6, 19[typo] [1936]

Mr. Commissioner of Pensions 
Revolutionary War Section 
Washington D C 

Dear Mr. Secretary: Will appreciate very much the following information: 
The names of any Revolutionary War soldiers from North Carolina by the name of BRUCE that pension papers were filed in connection with such service. 

If any record as above, please quote price of photostatic copies of the papers. 

Respectfully P W Bruce
P W Bruce 
1135 Grand Ave
Topeka Kas

[circular stamp with Numbers 1 -12 around the outside] RECEIVED APR 8 1936 MAIL SUB-DIV, VETS. ADM. READER #13

Page 41

Orleans Ind. - May 24-1931 

Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington D.C. 

I am desirous of getting some information in regard to the Pension of Wm Bruce, James Bruce, & Isaac Bruce three brothers who served in Revolutionary War - and received pensions under the act of Cong. 1832 entitling them to said pension. I know that James Bruce received his payment in Harrison Co. Ind. and Wm in Lincoln County Ky - but can’t find where- Isaac was paid, but somewhere in Ky. I want the post office-- this mail was sent to so that I can locate the county & town that I may get their land records and marriage records any help you can give me will be thankfully received. They came from Richmond County Va. - & Ind - & Ky = I am anxious to see family records for all – (have 1812 war record) Respectfully 
G. G. Compton

[Illegible shorthand] 

[circular stamp] PENSION MAY 27 1931 OFFICE U. S.

Page 42

Orleans Ind. - May 24 - 1931 

Commissioner of Pensions 
Washington DC. 

Dear Sir- 
In regard to the two services herein stated. I would like to know where pension for these services were paid and when they begin & when they ended - any other information would be thankfully received Thanking you for any information you can give me 

Most Respectfully 
G. G. Compton

[circular stamp upside down] PENSION MAY 26 1931 OFFICE U. S.

Page 43

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D. C. 

The records of this office show the following services in the War of 1812:

William Cook [^0 – NC], private, Captain James Graham's Company, 5th (Atkinson's) Regiment, North Carolina Militia ordered for service to rendezvous at Gates Court House, North Carolina, destined for Norfolk, Virginia. His service began September 27, and ended October 8, 1814.
[written on side] naOW

William Cook, private, Captain Harry Bryan's Company, 1st (McDonald's) Regiment, North Carolina Militia. He joined this organization November 25, 1814, and was paid to include February 5, 1815.

Page 44

Washington, D.C. March 18, 1930
224 A St. S. E.

Pension Dept. 
Washington, D. C. 

Gentlemen:
I am seeking some information, to complete a genealogical record, in regard to a pension allowed to one William Bruce of Lincoln County. Kentucky - a private in the company commanded by Capt. White of Regt. I commanded by Colonel Eaton in the N.C. Line inscribed on the rolls of Ky. 4th of March 1831. Certificate of pension issued 22d [22nd] of August 1833 (Record Book E Vol. 7 & 4, Index Vol. 2 p 53, Dan Boyd Clerk) bearing numbers 30287 and 19301 (Certified by Thomas Helm of Stanford Ky.) 

I wish to know the date of termination of this pension and the place where it was paid from 1833- to end, also any transfers or other data of interest in this connection. 

I will be most grateful for any information you may be able to furnish. If there is any expense involved, please advise. 
Yours very truly 
(Mrs.) G. G. Compton 
224 A St. S. E. Wash. D. C.

[circular stamp upside down] PENSION MAR 19 1930 OFFICE U. S.

Page 45

[typed form]

April 6, 1938 

William Bruce S. 39287 BA-J/AWF

Mrs. Grace G. Compton 
Orleans Indiana 

Dear Madam: 

Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War records of James and William Bruce, both of whom served from the State of Virginia, and later lived in the State of Kentucky. You cite "William Bruce - Bounty Warrant War 4-108", and wish to be advised if you can get information from Frankfort, Kentucky, court records, in regard to said warrant.

Revolutionary War data furnished by this office are obtained from claims for pension and bounty land which have been made to the United States, based upon service in that war. A search of the records fails to show such claims on file on account of the Revolutionary War service of James Bruce. 

The citation given by you does not pertain to the records of this office, nor is it known what the court records in Frankfort, Kentucky, may disclose. It is suggested as a possible means of securing information relative to said warrant, that you consult the archives in Richmond, Virginia. 

The record of William Bruce is furnished herewith. 

Very truly yours 

A. D. HILLER 
Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator

Page 46

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

April 6, 1838 

William Bruce, S. 30287 BA-J/AWF Own

Mrs. Grace G. Compton 
Orleans Indiana 

Dear Madam: 

The data which follow were obtained from papers on file in pension claim, S. 30287, based upon the service of William Bruce in the War of the Revolution. 
William Bruce was born in Richmond County, Virginia, date not shown, nor were the names of his parents stated. 
While a resident of Warren County, North Carolina, William Bruce served in 1780, three months in Captain John White's company; he was not in the battle of Gates' Defeat, but was near, having been detailed to duty with the baggage wagons. He enlisted sometime in February, 1781, served three months in Captain John White, under Colonel Eaton, and was in the battle of Guilford Court House. He served, again, in 1781, three months under General Caswell. 
He was allowed pension on his application executed August 27, 1832, at which time he was aged seventy-three years, and a resident of Lincoln County, Kentucky, where he had lived about thirty years. 
The papers on file in this claim contain no reference to the family of the soldier, William Bruce. 
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, name and address of person paid, and possibly the date of death of this pensioner, you should apply to The Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, Washington, D. C., and furnish the following data—

William Bruce 
Certificate # 19301 
Issued August 22, 1833 
Rate $30.00 per annum 
Commenced March 4, 1831 
Act of June 7, 1832 
Kentucky Agency. 

Very truly yours 

A. D. HILLER 

Executive Assistant 
to the Administrator

Page 47

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

BUREAU OF PENSIONS --

Finance Division 

OCT 25 1917 
………. 191. 

Chief of Rev. War Section 

Sir: 

I have this day received from Mrs. Kate Graves Gibbs draft #54454 …for $1. 00/100…requesting [post-office addresses crossed out] copy as per letter herewith. 

said draft returned to above on Oct. 26, 1917 by A E Wilson Rev. War Section 
● ● ● ● ● ● 

Very respectfully, W. N. Campbell J. J. C 
Chief of Division.

Page 48

[typed form]

TREASURY DEPARTMENT
WASHINGTON

Office 
Auditor for Interior Dep’t [Department] 

October 16, 1917.

[oval stamp] DISBURSING OFFICE RECEIVED *OCT 25 1917* BUREAU OF PENSIONS

Mrs. Kate Graves Gibbs, 
No. 502 E. Harrison St., 
Kirksville Missouri. 

Madam: 

Replying to your letter of the 10th instant, you are advised that the records of this office show that William Bruce, Soldier of the Revolution, certificate No. 19301, deid [died] March 5, 1842. 

The accrued pension due from Sept. 4, 1841, to the date of the soldiers death, amounting to $15.08, was paid by the United States Pension Agent, Louisville, Ky., March 14, 1843 to George H. McKinney, Louisville, Ky., attorney for the executors of the estate of William Bruce, deceased. At the date of payment said George H. McKinney was Deputy Clerk of the Court of Lincoln County, Kentucky. 

Respectfully, 
Signed, J. E. Ray 
Acting Auditor. 

smc

[stamped in middle of letter] C O P Y

[oval stamp] Finance Division OCT. 26 1917 BUREAU OF PENSIONS

Page 49

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

A.W. Rev. War Section. 

Oct. 26, 1817.

Mrs. Kate G. Gibbs, 
502 Harrison St. 
Kirksville, Mo. 

Madam:

In reply to your letter of the 22"instant, addressed to the Pension Agent at Louisville, Ky., and which was forwarded to this Bureau for a reply as there is no pension agent now stationed at Louisville, you are advised that there is no data on file as to the family of the Revolutionary War pensioner William Bruce S. 30, 287, whose history was sent you on Oct. 9, 1817. 

The check on the Kirksville Trust Co., No. 54, 454, for [ink smear] dollar, drawn to the order of the U. S. Pension Agent, Louisville, Ky. by L. F. Gibbs, on Oct. 20, 1917, is herewith returned. 

Very Respectfully, 

GM Saltzgaber
Commissioner.

Page 50

[typed form]

Kirksville Missouri. 
October 22, 1917. 

United States Pension Agent, 
Louisville Kentucky, 

From the enclosed copy of the letter I have from the Treasury Department, Washington, D.C. of October, 16, 1917, you will see I am seeking data concerning William Bruce, a soldier of the Revolution, born June 10th 1759 died March 5, 1842. I am trying to make sure that he is my ancestor, and to do so I must know who members of his family were. 

Will you give me the name of his wife or some of his childern [children], and both if possible, and also who the executors of his estate were? 

Enclosed find draft for one dollar for your kindness and trouble. Thanking you on advance, 

I am, 
Mrs. Kate Graves Gibbs
502 E. Harrison St., 
Kirksville Missouri. 

[oval stamp] DISBURSING OFFICE RECEIVED *OCT 25 1917* BUREAU OF PENSIONS

[oval stamp] Finance Division OCT. 26 1917 BUREAU OF PENSIONS

Page 51

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

[stamped sideways] OCT 9-

BUREAU OF PENSIONS --

Finance Division 

OCT 6 1917 
………. 191. 

Chief of Rev. War Section 

Sir: 

I have this day received from Mrs. Kate Graves Gibbs draft #56,034 …for $1. 00/100…requesting [post-office addresses crossed out] copy as per letter herewith. 

Returned to above Oct. 9, 1917
● ● ● ● ● ● 

Very respectfully, W. N. Campbell J.J.C 
Chief of Division.

Page 52

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

Rev Sec
cw

check for $1.00 recd. JDh 
On Rev. S
[oval stamp] CHIEF’S DESK Mail & Supplies OCT [Illegible] 1917 Division BUREAU OF PENSIONS

Kirksville Mo. 
October 3, 1917. 

Commissioner of Pensions, 
Washington, D.C. 

Will you please give me the Revolutionary War service of William Bruce, born June 10, 1759, in Va., died March 5, 1942 in Kentucky. 

He married the first time Hannah Morgan, of Virginia, the second time he married to Kitty Gaines. 

Enclosed find $1.00. 

Mrs Kate Graves Gibbs 
502 E. Harrison St. 
Kirksville Missouri.

[oval stamp] Finance Division OCT. 26 1917 BUREAU OF PENSIONS

[circular stamp upside down] PENSION OCT 16 1917 OFFICE U S

Page 53

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

AW

October 9, 1917.

Mrs. Kate Graves Gibbs, 
502 East Harrison Street, 
Kirksville, Missouri. 

Madam: 

In response to your letter dated the third instant, you are furnished the history of the only William Bruce of Kentucky found on the Revolutionary War records of this Bureau, for which there is no fee, therefore the check numbered 56, 034, for one dollar ($1) drawn to the order of the Commissioner of Pensions, on the Kirksville Trust Company, by L. F. Gibbs on October 3, 1917, is herewith returned to you. 

Very respectfully, 

GM Saltzgaber
Commissioner.

Page 54

[typed form, with handwritten responses]

In reply to your request of         , received          for a statement of the military history of William Bruce, soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his [crossed out (or his widow’s)] application for pension on file in this Bureau. 
S. 30, 287 

[columns with headings] DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. CAPTAIN. COLONEL. STATE. 
1780 3 mos. Private [Captain] John White [Colonel check mark] N. C.
Feby [February] 1781 3 mos. [Captain] John White [Colonel] Eaton
1781 3 mos.

Battles engaged in Guilford. 

Residence of soldier at enlistment, Warren Co. N. C. 

Date of application for pension, Aug. 27, 1832. His claim was allowed. 

Residence at date of application, Lincoln Co., Kentucky more than 30 yrs.

Age at date of application, seventy-three years born in Richmond Co., Va. 

Remarks: the date of his death is not shown – There is no family data [on file crossed out]

Only William Bruce pensioned in Kentucky found on the Rev. War records of this Bureau.

Respectfully, 

Commissioner.

d-2856