Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 3005, Peter Curtis, N C

Page 1

Service [typed]
N.C. [handwritten]

Curtis, Peter,
Susanna.

Number [typed]
W.3005 [handwritten]

Page 2

20.283
Kentucky 
____________
Peter Curtis 

of Lincoln Co. [handwritten] in the State of Kentucky [handwritten] who was a private [handwritten] in the company [handwritten] commanded by Captain Armstrong [handwritten] of the Regiment commanded by Colonel Martin [handwritten] in the N. Carolina [handwritten] line, for the term of twelve months. [handwritten]
from February 1776 [handwritten] to  ____ 1777

Inscribed on the roll of Kentucky [handwritten] at the rate of eight [handwritten] Dollars per month, to commence on the 3rd day of January 1831 [handwritten] 

Certificate of Pension issued the 3rd [handwritten] of January 1831 [handwritten] and sent to Hon John Kincaid, House of Reps. [handwritten]

Arrears to 4th of March 1831 [handwritten] $13.93
Semi-anu'l all'ce ending
___
13.93

{Revolutionary Claim, 
Acts March 18, 1818,
and May 1, 1820.}

Rec: Book D.
Vol. 9. Ful. 33

Page 3

[left side]
Reported 
Jany 6/49

[Right Side]
3084
Kentucky
Susana Curtis
widow of Pete Curtis [handwritten]

who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private 
N. Carolina line [handwritten]

Inscribed on the roll at the rate of $0 Dollars  __
Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848. 

Certificate of Pension issued the 16 [handwritten] day of Jany 1849 [handwritten] 
and sent to 
Pensioner 
Custonville
Lincoln Co KY

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 228 Vol. 3

Page 4

17.393.
Peter Curtis.
Gerrard Co: Kenty
22d. Sept. 1818.
-

Various Services- 
Col. Alexander Martins' regiment N. Car: 
line,- also, in Col. 
Claxton's regiment. same line.
Susp.
_
_

The Secretary of State for the State of North Carolina, is requested to certify from the rolls, the period of this applicant's service, and whether he deserted or not, - in that case, did he join his regiment and serve 9 month's thereafter, in continuance. 

Hon.ble Geo Robertson, 
agent
Lancaster, Kentucky
14. Sept. 1820.

Page 5

[top]
It appears from the musketrolls of the North Carolina Continental line, that Peter Curtis a musician enlisted in Capt Nelson's Company of the 4th Regt. in 1777 for three years and that he deserted in Sept. 1777. after which no further mention is made of him. 
Given the 17th Oct 1820
WM Gill Secty

[bottom]
Peter Curtis's
Petition for 
a pension

Certified 

Cont $1.25 
It appears from the rolls, that 
the applicant deserted on Sept 1777 the claim is therefore rejected. 

deposited by Hon: George Robertson, Member of Congress from Kentucky

Page 6

To the Commonwealth of Kentucky
Garrard Circuit Sct Sept 22nd  1818 
To the honble Secretary at war of the U.S.
the Petition of Peter Curtis. This Petitioner states on oath, that he served as a regular
soldier on the continental establishment in the revolutionary war, under three several
enlistments, for the period of about five years and six months. That he first enlisted together
with three of his brothers, at Guilford court house in North Carolina under Capt John Armstrong a short time before Christmas in the year 1775, for the term of one year, and was attached to the second North Carolina regiment on the continental line, commanded by Col. Alexander Martin and marched to Wilmington, and from there to Charleston, & continued there until the term was out. In the spring of the year 1777 he and his brothers enlisted again at Camden to go to the Northward for three years, that they were furloughed to go home that he was taken sick & was ordered on to the southward, when recovered, in the new levy serving for nine months,and was attached to the 1 regiment commanded by Col. James Clanton. that he was with  Gates at the defeat at Rugely’s Mills. His time being nearly out he again enlisted about two weeks before the battle of Guilford for the term of

Page 7

18 months, that he was with Genl. Green  at the battles of Guilford and Eutaw Springs, 

that he was on a detachment against some tories when the news came that Cornwallis was taken. He states that he obtained three discharges for the above term of service, which 

he has lost. that he resides in this county, that he is in his fifty ninth year, that he is very frail & 

infirm, and in indigent circumstances.  

his 
Peter X Curtis
Mark 

Thomas Walker a reputable witness states on oath that he was a near neighbor to Peter Curtis, and that he was informed & believes that he and three of his brothers were several years in the regular service as aforesaid in the revolutionary war, and also that he the s'd Peter Curtis lives in this family and that he is in indigent circumstances. 
Thoms Walker [signature]

I, William L. Kelly a circuit judge of the commonwealth af'd. Do hereby certify that Peter Curtis and Thomas Walker made both before me this day to the above facts to which they have respectively subscribed their names, and from the evidence before me I am satisfied that this petitioner served for the terms and in the manner above stated and that he is in reduced circumstances. 
William L. Kelly [signature]

Page 8

Augustine Jennings, a reputable witness makes oath that he has known Peter Curtis, the above beneficiary, for several years, and that he is in very low and indigent circumstances
A Jennings [signature]

State of Kentucky
Garr and Circuit Sect.
I Benj Letcher Clerk of the Circuit for the County aforesaid do certify that William L. Kelly Esqr. whose signature is to the foregoing certificate is Commissioned sworn and an acting Judge for the State and circuit aforesaid. In Testimony where of I have hereto set my name and caused the seal of my office to be affixed the 2nd day of Oct. 1818.
Benj Fletcher [signature]

Page 9

State of Kentucky Lincoln County Court Sct
At a County Court holden for the County of Lincoln at the Court house in the Town of Stanford on Tuesday the ninth day of march in the year eighteen hundred and twenty four being the Second day of the term Peter Curtis an applicant for a pension under the Act of Congress passed on the eighteenth day of March eighteen hundred and eighteen exhibited into Court a Written Statement of the manner in which he entered into the Service of the United States and also a Schedule of his property pursuant to the late act of Congress passed the first of May eighteen hundred and twenty which was Sworn to by the said Peter Curtis. And the Court from an inspection of the said affidavit and the examination of other testimony is of opinion that the Statement and affidavit of the said Peter Curtis are true and ordered that the same be recorded Copied and Certified to the Secretary of the War department, and the same follows in these words towit. Declaration. In order to obtain a Pension under the Several acts of Congress Concerning Revolutionary Soldiers, State of Kentucky, Lincoln County Sct On this 9 day of the March 1824 personally appeared in open Court for the County afsd Peter Curtis a resident in s’d County aged Sixty three years who being first duly Sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the provision made by the Acts of Congress of the 18 March 1818 and the 1 May 1820 that he the s’d Peter Curtis enlisted for the term of

Page 10

Twelve months on the [blank] day of February 1776 in the State of North Carolina, in the
Company commanded By Capt John Armstrong in the Reg’t commanded by Col Alx’r Martin in
the line of the State of North Carolina on the north carolina Continental establishment. That he continued to serve in the said Corps untill November of that year when he was furlowed from s’d service in Willmington in North Carolina and remained at home longer than was proper as he has been since informed he being entirely deranged during his absence, but before the
expiration of his Term was restored sufficiently to return to the service which he did and served
out his time in Capt Williams Company Col Donoho’s Reg’t and Gen’l Sumpters Brigade. He was deranged when furlowed as he has been informed and believes for he has no recollection of it personally. In the Spring 1778 he enlisted again at Guilford North Carolina under Capt John Leaks in the 3 North carolina Regt and Transfered to Capt Williams rd in Col Paisley’s Regt. and served out his time which was nine months faithfully and was discharged at Monks Corner in South Carolina near Charleston By Col Donoho But he has lost his discharge during the Service he was in the battle of Stono, of Campden and Guilford and Eutaw — And in pursuance of the act of 1 March 1820 I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18 st the March 1818 and that I have not since that time By Gift sale or otherwise disposed of

Page 11

of any part of my property with intent thereby to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress entitled an act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary war passed March 18 1818 – and that I have not nor th has any person in Trust for me any property or security contracts or debts due to me nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed. That I made out a Declaration similar to the foregoing in 1819 and had it presented to the war office but the application was rejected on the ground (as I was told) that I had been returned as a deserter during my first Service; I now declare on oath that I never deserted and that if there be such return it must have been produced by the absence occasioned By my mental derangement as aforesaid 

I have one blind mare worth. ....................... $30  
one mare with the use of only three legs. .......5  
Two Cows. ...................................  20 
Two Sows and pigs. ...................................10 
Total $65  
 
My occupation is agriculture, I am very infirm and hardly able to labour my family consists of my wife an old woman and three Children one a girl aged 13 years and two Boys one 17 and the other 14 years old, and two orphan grand children one 4 years old and the other two years old.  

Peter Curtis

Page 12

Kentucky Lincoln County Set

I Thomas Hehn Clerk of the Lincoln County Court do herby certify that it appears to the satisfaction of the court that the said Peter Curtis did serve in the Revolutionary war as stated in the preceding Declaration an are than nine months was one engagement and the Continental establishment are against the Dominion enemy. I also certify that the foregoing oath and the schedule thereto [illegible] are copied from the records of the said court truly- and I do further certify that it was the opinion of the said that the total amount in value of the prop [illegible] in the said schedule  is $65

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court on this 10th day of March 1824.
Thomas Hehn Clerk

Page 13

The Commonwealth of Kentucky Garrard County to wit, I do certify that Rachal Finnell personally appeared before me Hugh W McKee one of the Commonwealth Justices of the peace for the County of Garrard and made oath that she was acquainted with Peter Curtis the whole time for the revolutionary war and that she was a near neighbour to him and did know that he served in said war for some time and that way about the year 1776 or there about as well as she can recollect and that she never herd any complaint about him as a good soldier she dose not recollect the company nor regiment said Curtis was enlisted with but believes it was in the company and regiment he states it was as he is a man of truth- There was four Brothers of them enlisted at the same time Bartholemew Curtis, Joshua Curtis, Reuben Curtis and this James Peter Curtis & I do further certify that Rachal Finnel is a woman worth of being believed given under my hand and seal this 13th day of February 1830
Hugh W McKee J.P. GC

State of Kentucky}
Garrard County} Let
I James H. Letcher Clerk of the court for the county aforesaid do hereby certify that Hugh W McKee Esqr whose name is signed to the above certificate is

Page 14

who was at the time of signing the name a justice of the peace in and for said county duly commissioned and qualified as such and were faith and credit is is and ought to be given to all his official acts above

In testimony whereof I have hereto set my name as clerk [illegible] and caused the seal of said Court to be [illegible] affixed at my office in Lancaster this 12th day of February 1830, and in the 33d year of the Commonwealth.

James H. Letcher Clk

Kentucky}
Garrard County} Let

I, James Shilman presiding Justice of the peace in and for the County Court of Garrard County afs'd do certify that James H Letcher, whose signature appears to the foregoing certificate, is and was at the time of signing the same clerk of said court, and due faith and credit is and ought to be given to all his official acts, and that his attestation is in due form of law.

Given under my hand this 13th day of February 1830.

James Shilman

Page 15

Garrard County Ser

This day Peter Curtis aged 70 years came before me H. W McKee a Justice of the Peace for said county and made oath that he is the same Curtis as named in the affidavit of Rachal Finnell that he enlisted in 1776 in Capts John Armstrong Company & 2nd Regt comd by Col Alex Martin that he served twelve months and was discharged at [crossed out] Salsberry- after serving twelve months 
Given under my hand the 15th Feby 1830

Hugh W McKee J.P.

Page 16

[Writing over top of letter]
5212
Susanna Curtis 
Kentucky.

admitted 
Pr 2 yr. $ 80
Capt Nelson
Col Polk N.C. [illegible]

died 22 March 1835. 

[This letter has been overwritten, making some words difficult to decipher.]

State of Kentucky}
Lincoln County} Let

On this the 19th day of March 1839 Personally appeared before me Robert Miller a Justice of the Peace for the County of Lincoln and state aforesaid Susanna Curtis aged sixty five years old who being first duly sworn according to [illegible] doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7th 1838 enlisted an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows that she is the widow of Peter Curtis a soldier in the revolution and a pensioner on the role of the Kentucky agency. She further declares that she was married to  the said Peter Curtis on the Twenty ninth of October seventeen hundred and Ninety One (1791) That her husband the aforesaid Peter Curis died on the twenty sixth of March Eighteen hundred and Thirty five that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seventeen hundred and ninety four [illegible] at the time above stated, she further declares she knows of no record of her marriage 
her
Susanna  X Curtis 
mark

State of Kentucky }
Lincoln County Set}
The above declaration of Mrs. Susanna Curtis was this day subscribed and sworn to before me the undersigned Justice of the Peace for the County of Lincoln and state aforesaid 
And I certify that she is a woman of good moral character and a person of truth and veracity and in consequence of old age and bodily infirmity she is unable to attend court
Given under my hand the day and year above written 

Robert Miller J.P. L.C. [signature]

Page 17

The deposition of Susanna Curtis of Lincoln County Kentucky taken at the house of her Mother in Lincoln county and State aforesaid to be used as evidence in favor of the application of Mrs. Susanna Curtis for a pension under the act of Congress 7th July 1838.

Deponent being Twenty Eight years old the 12 June 1839 Deposeth and saith that she is the daughter of Peter Curtis and Susanna Curtis that she knows her father Peter Curtis was a pensioner on the roll of the Kentucky agency at the time of his death and that her father the aforesaid Peter Curtis died don't the Twenty Sixth day of March Eighteen hundred and thirty five and that her Mother the aforesaid Susanna Curtis has remained a widow ever since, the deponent further States that the family bible mentioning the record of the Childrens ages of her father & mother has remained in the possession of her Mother whom the deponent has lived with ever since the death of her father and the said record of her Mothers children remains with Robin Curtis born in the year of our Lord 1792 October the 29, Avarrelly Curtis was born in the year f our Lord 1794 February the 15 and continues with ages of John W Curtis Susanna Curtis Peter Curtis Lapsley Curtis & Isaac Curtis. the two first names [illegible] Robin Curtis and Averrelly Curtis the Deponent believes to be in her Fathers own handwrite the balance of the names the deponent understood is in the handwrite of a school master  The deponent states that two of the names registered above, Robin Curtis on the same leaf is names of the children of her father which he had before he the aforesaid Peter Curtis was married to her mother which leaf and register she now makes part of this her deposition And further saith not.
her 
Susanna X Curtis
mark

State of Kentucky }
Set
Lincoln County}
The above deposition was this day subscribed and sworn to by Susanna Curtis before me Robert Miller a Justice of the Peace for the county of Lincoln and State aforesaid And I certify that she is a woman of truth and veracity Given under my hand this 19th day of March 1839 
Robert Miller  JP

Page 18

State of Kentucky Lincoln Couty Court
I Thomas Hehn clerk of the County court for the county aforesaid do certify that Rober Miller Esq before me has the foregoing declaration & affidavit or deposition of Susanna Curtis were made & taken to which declaration & deposition he has amassed his certificates is an acting Justice of the peace in Lincoln county, duly commissioned & qualified, that full faith & credit is due to his official acts & that the signatures amassed to the said certificates is his genuine signatures. In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name & affixed the seal of my office this 11th day of May 1839. 
Thomas Hehn Clerk
Lincoln County Court

Page 19

[Vertical Writing on the left side]
Peter Curtis's Brother [page torn, illegible]

Bartholomew Curtis was born June 28 174[page torn]
[first name illegible] Curtis was born December 14 1746
Nanse Curtis born February ye 1748
John Curtis born ye January 1750
Joshua Curtis was born January ye 1752
Jude Curtis was born September 5 1754 
Rubin Curtis was born December 28 1755 
Peter Curtis was born February 25 1760

[Vertical Writing on the left side]
Peter Curtis's first children]
Mary Curtis was born in the year of our lord 1786 february 9th
_____
Charles Thorenton Curtis was born in the year of our lord 1788 September the 19
_____

[Vertical Writing on the left side]
Peter & Susanna Curtis Children]
Rubin Curtis was born in the year of our lord 1792 october the 22nd
_____
Avarilly Curtis was born in the year of our 1794 february the 15
_____
John H. Curtis was born february the 14 1799
Susanna Curtis was born June the 12 1801

Page 20

Peter Curtis was Born Feby 14 day 1806  
Lapsley Curtis was Born April 12 1809 
Jude Curtis was Born Augst 12 1811

[unsure  if this is bled through from another document, or if this is supposed to be here, but it is legible]
Madison Hozan was Born June 1 181[?] st 
Elizabeth Hozan was Born March 15 1821

Eliza Jean Curtis was Born July th 1823. 

Manuel Curtis was born July 10th 1821
Washington Curtis was born Dec 25th 1822

Page 21

Rev [handwritten]
WIDOW, &c. 
_____
File No 3005 [handwritten]
Susanna Curtis, 
Widow
Peter Curtis
Priv Rev. War

Act: July 2, 1848 [handwritten]
Index:- Vol. A [handwritten], Page 160 [handwritten]

[Arrangement of 1870.]

Page 22

Peter Curtis,
Revo: Kentucky.
______________
Susp'd

This man deserted. The claim was rejected on that account in 1820, since which he has proved by the testimony of a Mr. Watts, a man of respectability that he was mentally deranged. On that account he did not return to the Army. The affidavit of Mr. W. was satisfactory to the Secretary of War, but on a further examination, it was discovered that he did not serve nine months. This objection is insurmountable - The claim is absolutely rejected. See letter to Hon. R. P. Letcher, H.R. dated May 6, 1824.  
& 9 Dec: 1825- See letter to W. Hill Aug. 2. 1826. See Sec. Hills letter 7 Aug 1826, see letter to Hon R. P. Letcher H.R. 3rd. Jan. 1827.

Page 23

Kentucky 3951
____
Susanna Curtis 
widow of Peter Curtis
who was a Private 
in the North Carolina line for 2 years
_____
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of Eighty [handwritten] Dollars --
Cents per annum, to commence the 4th day of March, 1843. 
_____
Certificate of Pension issued the 18th day of December 1843 and sent to 
G.H. McKinney
Stanford
Kentucky
_____
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book: A [handwritten]
Vol. 1 [handwritten]
Page 117 [handwritten]

Page 24

Peter Curtis Ken out 18 March 1818
to what time p'd?
Pen. Office
May 28, 1839

died 26 March 1835 [faint writing in pencil]

Due 22nd March 1835 p'd that [illegible]
SH

Page 25

[left side]
+ Let to the J.B. Thompson
July 19. 1841.
let [paper folded, illegible] do. 28 Dec 41

[right side]
3016 Revo.
Kentucky

Susana Curtis
widow of Peter Curtis, Dec'd
who was a pensioner under the Act of 18 Mar: 18. and he died on the 22 March, 1835. of Lincoln Co in the State of Kentucky- who was a private int he compy:- commanded by Captain Nelson- of the Regt- commanded by Col: Polk _ in the N. Carolina line for 2 years- 
_____
Inscribed on the Roll of Kentucky- at the rate of 80 Dollars-- Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
_____
Certificate of Pension issued the 29th day of May 1839 & sent to the Hon J. Harlan, Harrodsburg, Ky:-
_____
Arrears to the 4th of Mar: 1839 $ 240.00
Semi=annual allowance ending 4 Sept: 40.00
$280.00

{Act July 7, 1838.}
Recorded by WM Steward - Clerk, 
Book A Vol. 2 Page 210

Page 26

Be pleased to say up to what time the pension of Susanna Curtis, widow of Peter Curtis. Kentucky will act July 7, 1838. at $80 per annum, has been paid. & who received the amount due from 4th March 1836 to the 4th March 1839. 

[written in light pencil]
P'd to 4th March 1841-
JH

Pension Office}
July 19. 1841}

Page 27

Each applicant must first make, and forward to J.L. Edwards, Commissioner of Pensions, at Washington, the following declaration, whereupon a certificate of pension will be forwarded to her.
__________
STATE OF KENTUCKY, Lincoln [handwritten] COUNTY, SS.
On this of 20th [handwritten] day of Oct. [handwritten]  1848, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, in and for said county, Susanna Curtis, [handwritten] a resident of said county, aged
Seventy four years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth, on her oath, make
the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act
of Congress, passed on the 2d Feby., 1848, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during who was a (here insert the rank the husband hold in the army, navy or militia, and the regiment, corps, or vessel in which he served.) And that she received an annual pension of Eighty [handwritten] dollars under the act of 17th June, 1844. She further declares
that she is still a widow.
Sworn and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me

her
Susanna X Curtis
mark

Sm. H Slaughter, [handwritten] J.P.
Witness Joh B Cobbell [signature]

I certify that the above declarant is personally known to me, and that she is the same
individual who drew a pension as stated by her in the foregoing declaration.
Sm. H Slaughter [signature] J. P.

STATE OF KENTUCKY, Lincoln [handwritten] COUNTY, SS.
I. Thomas Hehn,[handwritten] Clerk of the Court of said County, certify that S H Slaughter [handwritten] is a magistrate in and for said county, duly commissioned and sworn, and that the foregoing signature, purporting to be his is genuine. His commission is dated on the 11 [handwritten] day of February 1843,[handwritten] and continues during good behaviour. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed my seal of office, and
subscribed my name, this 21st [handwritten] day of October [handwritten] 1848.
Thomas Hehn Clerk

Page 28

[Stamp, partially illegible]
Nov
23
Ky. 

Free

[Letter addressed to:]
Mr. J.L. Edwards
Washington City
D.C.
[illegible, ink stain or crossed off]

[vertical writing on right side]
SC

[vertical writing on left side]
Ky
3951

Page 29

Hustonville Lincon Co Ky Novm 28th 1848

Dr Sir you will please forward a certificate of  pention to so soon as you receive it and duet the same to Susanna Curtis
Hustonville Lincoln co
Ky

Kindly yours 
H M Weatherford [illegible]
for Susanna Curtis

Page 30

Raleigh 7th August 1826.

Sir
On a reexamination of the case of Peter Curtis who claims a pension for Military services in the revolutionary war. I find nothing in his favor.
His name appears but once on the Rolls and there he is charged with desertion. The Rolls state that he enlisted in 1777 under Capt. Nelson of the 4th Regiment and that he deserted in Sept 1777. 
Had he served out the term for which he enlisted (which was three years) he would no doubt have obtained a warrant for the land allowed in such cases. No such warrant has been issued. It is possible he may have been furloughed and detained by sickness as stated in his declaration, and this fact unknown to his officers, or if known they might have considered themselves bound to charge him with desertion he having over run his time, and no official notice having been given them of the cause. 

I know of no sol'd by the name of Flacton of the No. Carolina Continental live in the Revolutionary war. 

Respectfully
your Obt. Servt.
W. m Hill

James L Edwards Esqr.

Page 31

250
____
86.

1/3 / 250
_____
83.33

83.33
3
_____
249-99

233.50
3
_____
[illegible] 0050

258.75
3
_____
8.06.25

Page 32

War Department 
Pension Office
 January 30th 1838,

Sir
The declaration of William Patterson transmitted by you to this office, has been examined. As the regulation of this Department require the testimony of two witnesses in regard to service no decision can be had until the claimant shall procure the widow of another witness in addition to that of Christopher Horn. the witness must be particular in stating the time at which the claimant entered the service and the time and manner of his leaving the same, and the regiment, company and line in which he served. The magistrate who may administer the oath, must certify to the credibility of the witness, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer under his seal of office. The papers are herewith returned.
I have the honor to be 

Very respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt.
J.L . Edwards

Hon. R. P Letcher
House of Representatives

Page 33

(Copy)
War Department 
Pension Office,
May 6. 1824

Sir,

The case of Peter Curtis has again been examined. The testimony of W. Watts is deserving of Credit so far as it goes to show that there, was a good reason for Curtis's not returning to the army when he was reported as a deserter. The objection therefor arising from the simple fact of being reported as a deserter is removed - but an objection stronger than this presents itself- it is that he did not serve nine months. The rolls state that he enlisted sometime in 1777, and left the army in September of that year. Now unless we suppose that he enlisted early in the morning of the first of January of that year, and went away on the night of the 30th of September following which we can hardly suppose, he could have served nine months. But W. Watts sets the matter at rest, although he is mistaken as to the year in which Curtis served. He says that he enlisted in the Spring of the year. If so, he could not have been in the service more than seven months at most. The claim cannot be allowed. 

I have the honor to be, 
[illegible]
(Signed) J.L. Edwards

Hon R. P. Letcher,
House of Representatives

Page 34

State of Kentucky 
Mercer Circuit Set
October Term 1833

Peter Watts came into Court & made the following affidavit to wit. State of Kentucky Mercer County & Gerard Vir, October Term 1833. This day Peter Watts of lawful age and credible appearance in open court & made oath that I am well acquainted with Peter Curtis a Revolutionary Soldier that he enlisted in Capt. John Armstrong Company of the 2d North Carolina Regiment on Continental establishment Commanded by Colo. Alexander Martin in the early part of the year 1776 and I was with him during that Summer in that year at Wilmington and I know that he serving that time for upwards of nine months faithfully served in said Regi and state in the fall of that year s'd Curtis got a furlough and returned home and was at that time partially deranged and on that account above did not return until the next year when he afterwards enlisted in the 3rd North Carolina Reg. under Col Simpson for nine months& I believe from information that I can rely upon he faithfully served rest his time the said Watts hereby states that he said Peter Curtis is now present with him and he will know  him to be the same person. Given under my hand this 7th day of October 1823.
Peter Watts

which is ordered to be recorded and certified ...

I Thomas Allen Clerk to the Mercer Circuit Court do hereby certify that the foregoing is truly copied from order book of said court which court is a court of record & I do further certify that the said Peter Watts is a credible witness
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of

Page 35

said circuit court at my office in [illegible]
this 6th day of April 1824 and in the 32nd year of the Commonwealth. 
Thos. Allen

State of Kentucky
Mercer Circuit Set

I William L Kelly Judge of the Mercer Circuit Court do certify Thomas Allen whose name is affixed to the foregoing certificate is clerk of S Circuit Court & that his said certificate is in due form.
Sworn under my hand this 6th day of April 1824

Page 36

I certify from my personal acquaintance with Peter Watts he is entitled to the full  credit in making the foregoing statement 
22nd April 1824

Rob P. Letcher M.C.

Page 37

State of Ky Garrard County Set

This day Thomas Walker came before me Wm Whealer a Justice of the Peace in and for the County A fore s'd and made oath that he has Bin well Acquainted with Peter Curtis ever sonce the year seventan hundred and seventy and Before for he lived A near neighbor to sd Curtis till some time after the old was handed he States he  well knew when Peter Curtis listed Twelve months in the old Continental Sarvices It  was in the years seventeen hundred and seventy six he Believe he further states he listed nine months In the Continental Sarvices [illegible] before he come home the Sd Curtis Sarvid [served] them two towers [tours] I believe I was no in the Army with him but well knew when he listed the twelve months tower and when he come home and frequently heard from sd Curtis while he was gon the old war A discharging said towers and Believes the a bove states more to Is from he was under Cornel Martin in his Ridgement I believe but as time has bin so long am Not printed in the names of the officers and Reidgments and further states he believe he discharged his duty faithfully as a soulgor [soldier] as the towers a bove stated he knows the Sd Peter Curtis well and knows this the same man who is now indearvouring to obtain a mention given under my hand and Seal this 16 day of February 1826

Wm Whealer JP GC

State of Kentucky 
Gerrard County Circuit,
I James H. Letcher clerk of the County for said County do hereby certify that William Wheeler whose signature is amassed to the above affidavit is and was at the time of signing the name a Justice of the Peace in and for Garrard County duly Commissioned qualified and accredited by law to administer an oath. 
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of said county to be hereto affixed my office in Lancaster this 8th day of June 1836 and in [page folded, illegible] the Commonwealth

James H. Letcher Clerk

Page 38

Kentucky Garrard County To wit

I Alexander A Jennings presiding Justice of the Peace in & for said county do hereby certify that James H. Letcher whose signature is amassed to the within and foregoing certificate is and was at that time of the signing the clerk of the county court for said county and due faith and credit are due and ought to be given to all his acts as such and that his declaration hereto is in due form. 
Given under my hand this 8th day of June 1826.

Alexander A Jennings J.P


I know Walker who gave the within deposition to be a man of truth and respectability. He is now dead. I have known him for many years and he always supported the character of an upright man. I know the Justice who took the deposition, he is a man of respectability and the deposition is in his hand writing. The certificate of the clerk is also genuine. 
3'd Jany 1830
RP Letcher

Page 39

Extract from a letter to the Hon. R.P. Letcher, House of Representatives, from the War Department, Pension Office, dated Dec. 9. 1825. "I return the unauthenticated affidavit of Thomas Walker, left by you this morning, in support of the claim of Peter Curtis to a pension, and have to state, that it is insuficient to remove the objections to his claim, which were communicated in my letter to you of the 6th of May 1824."

Page 40

(Copy)
War Department
Pension Office,
Jany 3d 1827

Sir,
I have again given to the case of Peter Curtis a careful examination, and I find the evidence insufficient to authorise the insertion of his name on the pension roll. The rolls of the North Carolina line states that he enlisted in 1777 and deserted in September 1777 giving to W. Watts testimony the fullest credit, it only goes to have that the claimant was prevented from returning to his regiment from furlough in consequence of insanity; and when his testimony the objection, that he was a deserter is waived; bur there is no evidence whatever that he served nine months that he entered the service on the first of January 1777 and continued therein until the 30th of Sept. 1777 inclusive, of which, neither the rolls, nor any of the documents service in 1777. The claimant, however, swears that he enlisted in 1776, and W. Wattts in his affidavit corroborates Curtis's statement but the rolls contain no account of such an enlistment. To give the claimant every opportunity, however, of obtaining what may be his rights, the case will be suspended and if he can prove that he served nine months in 1776 in Armstrong's company and Martin's regiment, a favorable decision may yet be had. The regulations in such cases require the testimony of two credible and disinterested witnesses, setting forth

Page 41

the time of entering, and the time and manner of leaving the service, and the regiment and company to which the claimant belonged, and the magistrate who may administer the oaths, is required to certify the credibility of the witness. The official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office. The papers which you presented will remain on our files. It is further for me to remark, that W. Watt's oath as to the service in 1776 will be received as evidence: but that Thomas Walker's affidavit is not satisfactory, because he had no knowledge of the claimant's service, except from general report, which is so often contrary in such cases, that testimony founded on is always considered doubtful. To fact and is instances where a charge of desertion has existed, it is deemed inadmissible.

I have the honor to be, 
[illegible]
(Signed) J.L. Edwards

Hon R. P. Letcher,
House of Representatives

Page 42

Dec 28 1841

[illegible]
let to Susan Curtis
Pension

[Letter addressed]
Col. J.L. Edwards Comm. Pensions
Pension Office

J.B. Thompson 
H.R.

Page 43

[illegible] H. Reps Dec 27. 41

I J.L. Edwards 
Dr Sir- 
I [illegible] your attention to the enclosed letter, I know nothing of the matter except what the letter contains please examine it thoroughly & four me with answer to be forwarded to [illegible] Curtis & Mage

Yr Obt Servt

J.B. Thompson (Ky)

Page 44

State of North Carolina}
County of Rockingham}

Alexander Limon maketh oath that in the year he enlisted in the company commanded by Captain John Leake, of one of the regiments of the North Carolina line, but by whom the regiment was commanded or what its number this affidavit cannot recollect- The enlistment took place in the state & county aforesaid, [sentence crossed out] and for the term of nine months that soon afterwards, this affiant was marched to Guilford Court House & there to the State of South Carolina- was some time at Raisburg & would have been in the Battle of Stono but that he was about on a scouting party. This affiant cannot remember at what time he was discharged but knows that he was regularly discharged at the end of the term of his enlistment. This affiant further swears that during all the time of this service he knew Peter Curtis, now a resident of the State of Kentucky, as a soldier engaged in the same company & for the same term of service. This affiant states that he never heard of any charge of desertion against the said Curtis (and,

Page 45

believes that he was regularly discharged about the same time with this affiant, though he does not remember to have seen his discharge. This affiant moreover states that he never heard any imputation upon the character of the aforesaid Curtis as a soldier or otherwise. [ink stain illegible] great lapse of time since taken place This affiant cannot recolect dates with precision, but he has a distinct recolection of the events before stated. 
Sworn & Subscribed before me this 4th day of November 1830. 
Alex Limon

I Wm Barnett do as acting Justice of the peace for the County of Rockingham, do hereby certify that Alex Lemon whose name is above written, is known to me, as a man whose character for veracity is unimpeachable. 
Wm Barnett J.P.

Page 46

State of North Carolina}
Rockingham County}

I Robert Gallaway, Clerk of Rockingham County Corut do duly certify that Wm Barnett is an acting Justice of Peace in & for the county of Rockingham and  entitled  to full faith & credit

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of said court at office the 4th day of Nov 1830 

Ro Gallaway CC

Page 47

State of North Carolina}
Rockingham County}

I Abraham Philips presiding Justice in and for the county aforesaid do hereby certify that Robert Gallaway Esquire whose name and signature is affixed to the foregoing instrument is and has been for manny years the clerk of our County Court of pleas and quarter sessions-and as such due faith should be given to his attestation and signature thereof it being made out in due form of of law - given under my hand this 4th day of November 1830.
A Philips

[vertical writing]
J. Kincaid
Dec. 20. 1830.

Page 48

Let this claim be admitted. I have proof could verify to & [illegible] in a matter, if so by [illegible]

J.H. Eaton
3 Jany 1831

Page 49

Let this claim be admitted. I have proof could verify to & [illegible] in a matter, if so by [illegible] 

J.H. Eaton 

3 Jany 1831

Page 50

War Department 
Pension Office
December 23 1830. 

Sir
The case of Peter Curtis, an applicant for a Pension, is submitted to you at the request of the Honble. Mr Jo Kincaid and Letcher Members of the House of Representatives from Kentucky.
The question which arises in the case is whether the evidence of his service of which the following is a summary, is sufficient to sustain this claim. 
The claimant in his declaration made in 1818, alleges that he enlisted in Armstrong's company of Martin's regiment North Carolina continental line a short time before Christmas 1775, for one year, and served his time out. In the spring of 1777 he enlisted again for three years; that he was furloughed to go home; was taken sick, and ordered to the southward when he recovered in the new levy service for nine months; that he was attached

Page 51

to the first regiment commanded by Colonel Claxton. Probably he may mean Thaxton. No Colonel named Claxton belonged to the Continental Army. His time being nearly out, he says that he enlisted again, about three weeks before the battle of Guilford for eighteen months: that he obtained three discharges for the service mentioned: that he was in the battles at Eutaw Springs, at Guilford Courthouse, and at Gate's defeat. These battles were fought in 1780 and 1781. In his declaration made in 1824 he says that he enlisted in February 1776 in Armstrong's company of Martin's regiment and Continental till November following, when he was furloughed and "remained at home longer than was proper, as he has been since informed he being entirely deranged during his absence, but before the expiration of his term was restored sufficiently to return to the service which he did and served out his time in Captain Williams's company, Colonel Donoho's regiment. In the spring of 1778 he says that he again enlisted under Captain John Leaks, and

Page 52

was transferred to Captain Williams's company of Colonel Paisley's regiment, and served out his time which was nine months.

It is proper to have to observe that his second declaration was made in consequence of his having been informed that he was reported as a Deserter. hence in his last declaration, he alluded to his having been mentally deranged and assigns that as a reason for his not returning to the army in due time. 

In support of the statements he produces the affidavits of Thomas Walker and Rachael Finney certified by R.P. Letcher to be credible witnesses, who state that they were well acquainted with Peter Curtis in N. Carolina they lived in the same neighbourhood during the Revolutionary war, that they knew that he served as a regular soldier in said war in continental service more than nine months in continuance. They believe that he served for or five years: they never heard that he deserted; and they do not believe that he

Page 53

[first two sentences are crossed out]
He and his family were good soldiers. If he did desert, he must have re-enlisted, as he was in service at or near the close of the war. 
Peter Watts, a credible witness swears that he knew Curtis to have enlisted early in the spring of 1776 in Armstrong's Company Martin's regiment; that he served in that year upwards of nine months faithfully, and late in the fall, returned home on furlough; was at the time partially deranged, and on that account alone did not return until the next year, when he afterwards enlisted in Colonel Simpson's regiment for nine months, and he believes from information which can be relied on that he served out his times. 
Alexander Limon a credible witness swears that he belonged to Captain Leake's company; does not remember who commanded the regiment or the number of it; during the time of his service which was nine months,

Page 54

the battle of Guilford was fought; and that Curtis was a soldier in the same company for the same period. The affiant states that he never heard of any charge of desertion against Curtis. 
John Quinn, who was a soldier several years and now a Pensioner, makes oath that he knew Curtis for about six months in the Army, and he never heard that Curtis deserted.
Thomas Tiffin, of Virginia a Revolutionary soldier and a Pensioner makes oath that Peter Curtis was he believes a soldier in Armstrong's company, while the army was at White Marsh; that he never heard of Peter Curtis's desertion from the Army, or any other conduct unbecoming a soldier. 
Giving to the testimony all the credit to which it is entitled it does not I think satisfactorily prove that he served nine months in the continental army. From an examination of the muster rolls of the North Carolina line in the Secretary of States office

Page 55

at Raleigh N.C. it appears that Peter Curtis enlisted in Captain Nelson's company of the 4th regiment in the year 1777 for the term of three year, and deserted in September 1777. Supposing W Watts's statement to be strictly true it only goes to prove that Crutis was in the service in 1776, in Armstrong's company of Colonel Martin's regiment it does not prove that he served therein nine months, although he alleges in general terms that he did so serve. He says that he enlisted in the early part of the year 1776, and served until late in the fall of that year. Colonel Martin was not appointed to the command of a regiment until the 7th of May 1776. If therefore Curtis served under him to the latest period of the fall of that year, the term of service could not have been so long as even seven months. Confiding in M. Watt's statement in regard to the cause of Curtis's not returning to the army, it merely shows that Curtis was not justly chargeable with the crime of desertion in 1776. The rolls give no account of his having

Page 56

served in that year. They show that he enlisted and deserted in 1777. If the credit of a record be considered greater than the testimony of witnesses neither M Watt's affidavit nor the affidavit of any of the other witnesses can be admitted as evidence but if this well known rule of evidence could be waived in this case and Mr. Watts should be allowed to give his testimony in explanation of the record, we must suppose that he was mistaken as to the year and that when he saw Curtisin the service, it was in 1777 wand not in 1776. Admitting it to be so, still Curtis did not serve nine months in 1777: for according to Mr. Watt's statement, he entered the service in the Spring of the year and from that time to the September following, the length of service could not have exceeded seven months. 
Thomas Walker's testimony is very vague. He says in a supplemental affidavit that he was a neighbour to Curtis, that Curtis enlisted for 12 months in the continental service in 1776; he also says that he was informed that

Page 57

he enlisted for nine months in the army, under another enlistment: and that he belonged to Colonel Martin's regiment. Walker was not himself a soldier.
Rachael Finney or Finnell also makes a supplemental affidavit; but she merely states what appears to be generally admitted, that Curtis was in the army. There is nothing definite in her statements. 
John Quinn's affidavit relates more to his own particular service than to Curtis's. He says that he the deponent was at Valley Forge where he first saw him in the winter of 1778. The army did go into winter quarters at that place in January 1778; making a period of five months. Quinn says that he never knew him before the army lay at Valley Forge, and never saw him after the army left that place. He could not of course have known him in the service so long as even six months. 
Alexander Limon's affidavit merely shows that Curtis served in Leake's company

Page 58

which belonged to Colonel Paisley's regiment. That requirement was not on the continental establishment. His testimony therefore proves nothing in favor of the claim. 

From a full view of the case it would seem to me that the claim is not substantiated, even though the rules of the Department should not be rigidly applied. The claim has been before the Department for twelve years, and once the Secretary of War admitted Watt's testimony in explanation of that part of the record which charges Curtis with desertion, but on a further investigation of the claim he was satisfied that there was not sufficient proof as to the length of the claimant's service and rejected the claim. 
I have the honor to be 
Very respectfully 
Your Obt Servt
J.L. Edwards

Hon J.H. Eaton 
Secretary of War

Page 59

State of Lincoln Ky Garrard County [illegible]

County court Aug 6 Term 1820.

This day Thomas Walker and Rachael Finney are disinterested and credible witnesses came into court and made oath that they were acquainted with Peter Curtis in North Carolina - they lived in the same neighborhood during the Revolutionary war, they know that he served in the war as a regular soldier in continental service more than nine months in continuance- They believe that he served four or five years. They never heard that he deserted and don't believe he ever did. They know he was in the battle of Gilford and believe he was in the Battles of Eutaw Springs- and know that he was in the service after that battle. He and his family were considered good soldiers and they believe that they fought through the war. If Peter ever deserted they think they would have known it. (since if he did he must have benefited and served again because he was in the service at or near the close of the war.

Page 60

State of Kentucky
Garrard County [illegible]

I Ben Letcher clerk of the Garrard County court do hereby certify that the written  [illegible] of Thomas Walker and Rachael Finney is duly copied from the record of said courts; and I do further certify that it is the opinion of the said court that the said witnesses Walker & Finney are disinterested & credible

In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court this 25 day of August 1820
Ben Letcher Clerk 

Curtis Claim
cert of Walker
& Finney

Page 61

rec'd 29th July 1826
17.393
Peter Curtis

old case.
Hon R. P. Letcher,
Lancaster,
Ky

[Letter addressed to]
James L. Edwards Esq. [illegible]
War Department 
Washington City

Page 62

Lancaster Ky
12th July 1826

Dr Sir.
The affidavit of Thomas Walker in the case of Peter Curtis has been made as full you required. The Clerk certificate is [illegible] [illegible] will you if granted enclose the the pension certificate. as the old man is not likely to live to [illegible, ink stain] he is very anxious to get a sign of his documents before he dies. 

Your sincere friend
Robt. P. Letcher

Page 63

State of North Carolina Secretary's Office
26th April 1824. 

Sir 
It appears from the rolls in this office that Peter Curtis enlisted as a musician in Capt Nelson's Company of the 4th Regiment, some time in the year 1777 for the term of three years and that he deserted in Sept 1777.

There was a Capt Williams and a Major Donoho of the revolutionary war, and of the live of this state but no Colo Paisley. 
Very respectfully 
Your Obt. Servt. 
Wm  Hill

James L. Edwards Esqr.
Pension Office

Page 64

James L. Edwards Esq
Pension Office
War Depart.
March 1829 
on register
17393
O. C. Peter Curtis
Act 18 March 1818
Kentucky
per letter 11 March 1830
to Hon. J. Kincaid
Hon. John Kincaid
H. R.
pen: to
Com:
3 Jan 1830

Page 65

April 22 Harrisonburg Va.   25

Ch China Esqr.
of Harrodsburg 
Kentucky
Mail

[upside down writing]
$2 was received

Page 66

Virginia to wit
I Henry J Gambill clerk of the court of Rockingham do hereby certify that I have carefully examined the records of my office, from the years 1788. to the year 1799. in leisure and can find no evidence of a marriage between Peter Curtis and Susanna Samson or Samsin.

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand hand and affixed the seal of my said county this 29th day of April 1839 and in the 63rd year of the Commonwealth. 
H.J. Gambill



Sir,

The is no return of the marriage of Curtis and Susanna returned to my office nor can I find above given by him, I have made diligent examination, perhaps the marriage might have taken place in Rockridge County.
with great respect yours
H. J. Gambill

Harrisburg April 20 1839.
Seal of Certificate.. $1.37
Searches &D ..... 54
_____
$1.91

Page 67

Pittsylvania County, State Virginia, to wit

Personally appeared John Quinn, at present a pensioner of the United States & a revolutionary  soldier of the United States, having served as such, five years & nine months, during or apart of that time, says he thinks it was for 6 months he saw and was acquainted with Peter Curtis then in said army- as a-soldier- he first saw him in the army in the state of Pennsylvania at the Vally Forge, where they continued in winter quarters in the year 1778 & in the [illegible] of 1779. he this applicant, marched in present of the Buluh from Valley Forge to Philidelphia & from then on to the place called White Plains & from there he was in the Battle at Monmouth court house, be this affiant cannot now recollect of was losing Peter Curtis after leaving Valley forge, as he this affiant belonged to the Virginia Troops & Mr. [illegible] Curtis to the North Carolina, be this affiant know nothing of the enlistment of said Curtis, but that he himself enlisted & he supposed that Peter Curtis did also for he thinks more, but those that had enlisted int he regular Army, was in camp, & that he then understood, that Peter Curtis was a regular Soldier in the army, together with, Rhubin Curtis, Joshua Curtis- & was accompanied with their dumb & deaf brother, that Curtis who would follow on- be this affiant never heart, that Peter Curtis deserted the army- & never heard of any conduct which was to his [illegible] 

Taken before us Benjamin Walkers- & Ro. Harrison- Justices of the peace in the county aforesaid this 6th December 1830.

his
John X Quinn
mark

Ro Harrison J.P.
Benj Walkers J.P

Page 68

Pittsylvania County Vir (to wit)

Personally appeared Thomas Tiffin at present a pensioner of the United States having served as such during the Revolutionary War he saw & was acquainted with Reuben Curtis, Joshua Curtis & Bartholomy Curtis said to be Brothers of Peter Curtis & I believe Peter Curtis was one of the soldiers with us in Capt Armstrongs Company, & Rueben Curtis was sergeant in Armstrong Company & I was a sergeant in Benj a Williams Company at White Marse & further sayeth that he never heard of the Sd Peter Curtis desertion from he Army or any other conduct unbecoming a soldier.
Thos Tiffin [signature]

Sworn to before me 
Ro. Harrison J.P. 

Virginia Pittsylvania County to wit
I William Tunstall clerk of the county court of said county do hereby certify that Benjamin Watkins and Robert Harrison before whose the foregoing affidavit, were sworn, were at the time Justices of the Peace for the said county and duly commissioned to administer oaths. 

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said court this 10th day of December one thousand eight hundred & thirty
Will Tunstall

Page 69

[left side]
Susannah Curtis
Declaration 

[right side]
4264
Susanna Curtis 
Declaration 
__________
$80
3557
167

GH McKinney
Stanford
Ky

Page 70

Declaration

In order to obtain the benefits, of the act of Congress of the 3rd March 1843 granting pensions for one year to certain widows who have received pensions under the Act of July 7 18[illegible]8

State of Kentucky S.S.
Lincoln County 
On this 21st day of June 1843 personally appeared before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in & for the County aforesaid Susannah Curtis a resident of Lincoln county Kentucky aged about 68 years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed don't he 3d March 1843 granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War. That she is the widow of Peter Curtis who was a private in the army of the Revolution. That he enlisted int he Company of Captain John Leak that the Regiment was commanded by Col Armstrong. That the amount of pension which she received under the act of July 7 1838 was eighty dollars. She further declares that she is still a widow. 
Sworn to & subscribed on the day & year above
Written before 
Robt. Miller J.P. L.C. 

her
Susannah X Curtis
mark

Page 71

State of Kentucky} Set.
Lincoln County}

I Robert Miller a Justice of the Peace in & for the county aforesaid do certify that the foregoing declarant Susannah Curtis is personally known to me that she is the identical Susannah Curtis who received a pension under the act of Congress of July 7th 1838.
Given from under my hand this 21st day of June 1843
Robt Miller J.P. L.C.

State of Kentucky Lincoln County [illegible]

I Thomas Hehn clerk of the court of Lincoln County certify that Robert Miller is a magistrate as above and that the foregoing certificate purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have here unto affixed the seal of my office and subscribed my name this 7th day of July in the year 1843

Thomas Hehn Clerk
of the court of Lincoln County 

By Jos W Letcher CC