Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 31025, John Finley, Penn.

Page 1

Penn    Finley, John  S31025
B.L.WA.745-300..Capt.
Issued Oct.24,1789
No papers

Page 2

Transferred to Kentucky  Notification sent to the same of M . Bath Esq. Flemmingsburg, Pennsylvania 24th Janu 1826
14 66      22/30
40
54  66
30
12
18/30

16.307
Pennsylvania
Transfer to Kentucky
John Finley 
of Allegheny Cove in the state of Pennsylv.a who was a Major by Brevat in the regiment commanded by Colonel Stewart of the Pennsylvania line, of the term of the war
Inscribed on the Roll of Pennsylvania at the rate of 20 dollars per month , to commence on the 7th of October 1819   Certificate of Pension issued the 13 of Jany, 1820 and sent to Honble. H. Baldwin  H. Re [illegible]
Arrears to 4th of [crossed out]
Portion of Semi-anl . all'ce ending 4 March 1820. 70.70
$70.70
Revolutionary claim 
Act 18th March, 1818
Continued

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33 064
Kentucky
John Finley deed of     in the state of 
who was a Brigade Major commander  by Captain---- of the    commander by  
in the Penn of the Revolution
Inscribed on the roll of Louisville at the rate of 600 Dollars-- cents per ann
to commence on the 4th day of March 1831 Ending10. April 1837
Certificate of Pension issued the 4, day of October 1852 and sent to D.D. Addison
Arrears to the 4th of [illegible]
Semi-annual allowance ending
Incl from J L, 80 {illegible] 15 May 1828
Revolutionary Claim Act June 7 1832
Recorded by RM Kae Cler  2 Vol / Page 17

Page 4

That in October AD 1777 he was promoted to a Captaincy -  That in 78 he was ordered to the West under Genl. Mackintosh [Lachlan McIntosh] -  That he was Inspector & Judge advocate of the Western Department That he was Genl. Irvins Brigade Major – That after the second reduction of the Penna line he was annexed to the 2d Regt but never joined it – Remaining under Genl. Irvin – that in September 83 he received the appointment of a Major by brevet – That at the disbanding of the Army in November 83 he was left by Genl. Irvin in command at Pittsburgh with some volunteers to take care of the [? Difficult to read, smudged and torn] public stores untill relieved by Capt Marburry [Joseph Marbury] of the Maryland line – 
The [illegible] served as a first lieutenant captain & major by brevet in the service of the United States on the continental establishment in the Revolutionary War against the common enemy for the period of seven years & upwards that he has never Receivd any pension or applied for one heretofore. That he has lost his commissions as Lieutenant & Captain & that his annex in appointment of Major by brevet is the only written evidence of his commissions now in his posession

Jn Finley [signature]
Sworn[?] & subscribed 
this month of October
AD 1819 before me
Jonathan A. Walker [signature]

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United Stats
Western District of Pennsylvania [SS?]

On the seventh day of October AD 1819 before me the subscriber[?] Judge of the United States in & for the said district personally appear John Finley aged 72 years, resident in Alleghey county Pennsylvania who being by me duly sworn doth on oath make the following declaration to obtain the provision made by the late act of Congress entitled “An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land & naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary War that he the said John Finley on the 6th of July AD 1776 was duly commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant in the 8th Pennsylvania Regiment in the service of the United States That said Regt was then commanded by Col Eneas McCoy [Aeneas Mackay]  & afterwards by Col Danl [Daniel] Brodhead. That he joined the army in the field first in the spring of 77 in New Jersey – That he was in the Battle of Ashswamp [Ash Swamp-Spanktown - Feb 23, 1777] under General Maxwell & at the attack on Bonnbrook [Bound Brook - Apr 13, 1777] under Genl. Lincoln  That he joined the main army & was in the battle of Brandywine [Sept 11, 1777] - that he was at the surprise at Paoli [Sept 20-21, 1777] - & in the battle of Germantown [Oct 4, 1777] - That at the first Reduction of the Penna line he was annexed to the 5th Penna Regt

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County of Fleming Set

On this first day of May 1826 personally appeared in open court being a court of record expressly made so by the Constitution of law of the State of Kentucky for the County of Fleming. John Finley residing in said County, aged 78 years who being first duly sworn according to law doth, on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the provisions made by the acts of Congress of the 18th March 1818 and 1st May 1820 that he the said John Finley entered the service of the United States as a first Lieutenant in the summer of the year 1776 in Capt Moses Carsons company Eighth Pennsylvania Regt commanded by Col. Eneas McCoy and afterwards by Col Danl Broadhead, that in October of the year 1777 he was promoted to the rank of Captain in said Regt that in the year 1778 or 1779 he was transferred to the 5th Pennsylvania Regt commanded Col. Richard Butler, and that in the year 1780 or 1781 he was transferred to 2nd Pennsylvania Regt commanded by Col Hampton, that about the close of the war in the year 1782 or 1783 he was breveted a Major that his commission as Brevet Major is on file in the war office with the papers in which he forwarded for the purpose of obtaining a pension as a Revolutionary Officer that he continued in the service of the United States, as an officer on Continental establishment until November 1783 at the close of the war when he was discharged from the said service in Pittsburg in the state of Pennsylvania. That he hereby relinquishes every

Page 7

claim whatever to a pension except the present: That his name is not on the roll of any State except Pennsylvania and that the following are the reason for not making earlier application for the continuance of his pension: That hertofore he had two sons David and Samuel, young men, grown, that lived with him and by their labour they supported and maintained himself and family. That they are both married and gone from him, that he is old and infirm and not able to do manual labour and has not the means of support without the assistance of his country: that formerly he had a claim to a piece of land which he has been deprived of it by a decision of the Superior Court of Kentucky which left him entirely destitute of the means of support, and in pursuance of the Act of the 1 May 1820 I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March 1818 and that I have not since that time by gift sale or in any manner disposed of my property or any part thereof with intent thereby so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of any 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 on the 18th March 1818 and that I have no nor has any person in trust for me any property or securities contracts or debts due to me; nor have I any income

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other than what is contained in the (?)
hereto annexed and by me subscribed
One horse value in specie......$30.
One blind mare scott north in specie ...30.
One head of horned cattle north in specie..7.
Twenty four sheep valued in specie at 18.
Household furniture cousn ting of (?) worth 15.
Kitchenware or cooking utensil worth....5.
Three sow (?)pigs north in specie....12
$117
I further state on oath that I have been through
life a farmer in the small way that I will
be 78 year old on the 21 day of July (?)
having been born on the 21 July 1748 as stated
by the family record, and information from
my parents. That I am too old infirm
to labour for a living or support, that my
wife Hannah is about 60 year of age. My dau=
=ghter Betsey Ann 21 years old, Mariah Jane
16 years old Hannah Sarah 13 years old and a
bound boy between six seven years old name 
Richard Keller The females of my family is
in usual health and strength except Betsey
Ann who is affected with the (?)
to prevent her from doing labour except
with the needle (?) and that I am in such
indigent circumstances as to be unable to
support myself without the assistance of
my country or private charity. I further
state that there has been no changes in my
property since the 18 March 1818 except what
may occasionally have happened by the increase
of stock and the killing of the same for food

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for the family so(?) except the loss of my land
by a decision of the Superior Court of the State
of Kentucky as aforesaid in which I lost about
200 acres, of the very poorest kind of oak land
north about two or two and a half dollars per
acre and all the land I possessed on Earth
Jn. Finley
Sworn to and declared, in open court, on the 1st
day of May 1826.
Before me John Debett(?) a
Justice of the Peace for said County
I Joshua Stockton Clerk of the Fleming County 
Court do hereby certify that it appears to the 
satisfaction of the Court that the said John Finley
did serve in the Revolutionary War as stated
in the preceding declaration against the common
enemy, from the year 1776 to November 1783.
being more than seven years under one engagement
or without any intermission on the continental
establishment. I also certify that the foregoing
oath and the scedule(?) thereto annexed, are truly copied from the record of the said Court. And
I further certify that it is the opinion of the
said Court that the total amount in value
of the property exhibited in the aforesaid scedule(?)
is one hundred and seventeen dollars --
In testimony my whereof I have
hereunto set my hand and affixed
the seal of the said Court on
this 1st day of May 1826.
Joshua Stockton Clerk
of the Court of Fleming Cty

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John Finley Co.
Kentucky





D D Addison
   Present

Page 11

State of  Kentucky
County of  Flemming  } SS:

Be it known,  that on this twentyninth day of July,  A. D. eighteen hundred and fifty two, before the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid personally appeared David D Finley, a resident of Kentucky Flemming County in said County, and made oath according to law, that he is a son of Capt. John Finley Decd. late a United States pensioner under the Act of May 15, 1828 at the rate of $480 pr. au.

that he is directly interested, as aforesaid, as a claimant, and makes this affidavit for the purpose of obtaining such increase of pension as may be due under any of the Laws, Regulations, or decisions that have been or may hereafter be adopted. The said Affiant further declares that he hereby constitutes and appoints Caleb White & D. D. Addison to be Attorneys and Agents to prosecute said claim, with the power of substitution, to examine all papers and documents in relation to it, and to do all things necessary and lawful in the premises; except drawing the money, which will be hereafter provided for.

[signature] D. D. Finley 

Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid, before me,

[signature] John Bishop      J. Peace.

I, John Bishop, Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that David D. Finley, above named, is a respectable resident of this County, as. is, as I believe, directly interested in said claim as therein set forth, and acknowledges the above Power of Attorney to be his act and deed.

[signature] John Bishop 
J. Peace

In testimony that the above-named John Bishop was a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, at the date of the same, I hereby subscribe my name and affix the County Seal.  This 31st day of July 1852.

[signature] W. T. Dudley
County Clerk
[signature] B. M. Harbeson  DSV

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[finger pointing symbol]
EXPLANATION. – The following Form can be used by Prothonotaries, Surrogates, Registers of Probate, and other Officers, for certificates in the cases of deceased Applicants for Revolutionary Pension; and for Deceased Pensioners, where Arrears or Increase may be claims. In either case, the precise date of death must be plainly stated, with the names of all the children who were alive when the party died; and if any have since died, it must be stated, with the names of the children they left. When there are but few children, and they all live near each other, there need not be an Administrator.
If for a deceased Pensioner, the Grade, Rate, and Law under which pensioned should be stated; and in Widows’ cases the name and Grade of the Husband should also be stated.
Certificate of Death and Heirship
State of Kentucky } ss:
County of Fleming

It is hereby certified, that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited before me, Cleark of the County Court, in and for the County aforesaid, that Capt. John Finley [deceased – crossed out] late of the State of Kentucky in said County, who was a pensioner under the act of May 15th of 1828 at the rate of $480 per annum died in said County, on the 10th day of April 1837 [crossed out – in the year one thousand eight hundred, and] leaving surviving him the following named children only, viz:
David D Finley
Martha Peebles
(late Finley, Jane McCabe (late Finley)
Elizabeth Ann Farras (late Finley)
Sarah Dillon (late Finley)

and the above named David D. Finley 
Martha Peebles
Jane McCabe
Elizabeth Ann Farras and Sarah Dillon
are the only children of the said Capt John Finley who are now living.

I further certify, that David D Finley of Fleming County Kentucky has been duly appointed and qualified as Administrator of the estate of the said Capt. John Finley deceased.

In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed my Seal of Office, this first day of July one thousand eight hundred and fifty two

[illegible] Dudley clk.
Fleming County Court
by JM Harbeson D.C.

[Seal lower left on document]

Page 13

September 22, 1933.

Mr. Howard Finley
Hotel Field, 445 Field Avenue
Detroit, Michigan.

BA-J/ILL
John Finley
S. 31025

Dear Sir:

Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of Captain John Finley, of Pennsylvania.

The record of John Finley is furnished herein as found in the papers on file in his claim for pension, S. 31025, based upon his service in the Revolutionary War.

John Finley was born July 21, 1748; the place and names of his parents are not stated.

He was commissioned July 6, 1776, 1st Lieutenant, served in Captain Moses Carson's company, Colonel Aenas Mackey and Daniel Brodhead's 8th Pennsylvania regiment and was in the battles of Ash Swamp, Bound Brook, Brandywine, Paoli and Germantown; in October 1777, he was promoted Captain of said regiment. At the first reduction of the Pennsylvania Line, he was transferred to Colonel Richard Butler's 5th Pennsylvania regiment, and, at the second reduction, was transferred to Colonel R. Humpton's 2nd Pennsylvania regiment, but never joined either regiment, having been ordered west in 1778, under General McIntosh, and remained there as Inspector and Judge Advocate of the Western Department, and as General William Irvine's Brigade Major. On October 10, 1783, at Princeton, New Jersey, he was brevetted Major, U. S. A. and was discharged in November 1783, from the Continental Establishment of the Revolutionary Army, at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.

The soldier was allowed pension on his application executed October 7, 1819, at which time he resided in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

In 1826, John Finley was a resident of Fleming County, Kentucky. He died April 10, 1837 in that county.

Page 14

In 1826, Hannah, the wife of John Finley, the soldier, was sixty years of age; her maiden name, the names of her parents, and the date and place of her birth are not shown. David D. Finley and Samuel Finley, soldier's sons, were then married and lived away from their father; his children, Betsey Ann, aged twenty-one years, Mariah Jane, aged sixteen years, and Hannah Sarah, aged thirteen years, were living at home at that time.

In 1862, the names of the surviving children of Captain John Finley were shown as follow: David D. Finley of Fleming County, Kentucky; Martha (Finley) Peebles; Jane (Finley) McCabe; Elisabeth Ann (Finley) Farras; and Sarah (Finley) Dillon. There are no further data relative to any of said children.

Very truly yours,

A. D. HILLER
Assistant to Administrator.

Page 15

SERVICE
Penn. Finley,John  
Number S.31025
B.L.Wa. 745_300_Capt.
Issued Oct.24,1789.
No papers.

Page 16

IN PURSUANCE
Of an ACT of 
CONGRESS
of the Thirtieth Day of SEPTEMBER, 
A.D. 1783.

John Finley Esquire
is to Rank as Major -- by Brevet, 
in the ARMY of the UNITED STATES of AMERICA.

GIVEN under my Hand, at Princeton the Tenth Day of October 1783. --

B. Lincoln
Elias Bondmot Pens.

Page 17

I have difficulty in the case of John Finley - and with Col. Niles to look at his declaration under the act of 1828 -  in [illegible] with the papers in the case.  I am not satisfied with the proof of the service as Brigade Major. Perhaps the evidence has evaded me.  

[Signature] JE Heath

Page 18

Service
Penn.
Finley, John
S. 31025
M.L.Wa. 745. [  ] Sept.
Issued Oct. 24, 1789.
No Papers

Page 19

I John Finley of the County of Fleming and State of Kentucky do hereby declare that I was commisioned [commissioned] as a first lieutenant in the army of the Revolution in July 1776 in the 8th Pennsylvania Regiment Contineltal [Continental] establishment commanded by Col Eneas McCoy afterwards by Col Daniel Broadhead and in the month of October 1777 I was commisioned [commissioned] a Captain in the same Regiment and continued as such until the end of the War.
And I also declare that I afterwards received a certificate, (commonally [commonly] called a commendation certificate) for a sum equal to the amount of five years full pay which sum was offered by the Resolves of Congres [Congress] of the 22nd March 1783 instead of the half pay for life to which I was entitled under the Resolves of the 21st October 1780.
And I do further declare that I have Received of the United States as a pensioner since the 3rd March 1826 commencing on the 13th day of June 1826 at the Rate of twenty dollars per month up to the 4th March 1828 which several payments has been made to me at the Branch Bank of United States in the town of Lexington Kentucky by the pension agent for paying pensions.

M. Finley [handwritten signature]

Page 20

State of Kentucky
Fleming County [?]
This day personally appeared before Dorsey K Stocklow a Justice of the Peace for [?] county.  John Finley of said county and made oath that the [?] declaration is substantially true.  I further certify that the said John Finley is reported believed to have been an officer in the Army of the Revolution
[?] my hand seal this 25th July, 1828.

Page 21

Flemingsburgh  Aug.5th 1828
Col. Aaron Ogdon
Sir,
 Isent in (Illegible word) to the Secretary of the Treasury my dictation of my being an officer in the Revolutionary army during the war; It is
probable that it may not be in form, but the
substance is correct. I was commissioned a first Lieutenant in Capt. Moses Carsons Company in the 8th Penn, Reg on Continental establishment, in July 1776-and in October 1777 was promoted to a Captaincy and continued as such until the end of the war; at the reduction of the (illegible) line I was (illegible)to the 5th (illegible) Commanded by Col. Richard Buller; and at a nother arrangement of said line I was annexed to the 2nd Pa. Reg commanded by Col. R. Hampton; I never Joined either of the Regts being detained in the Western department as Brigade Major to Genl. Irwin, and inspector (illegible) Judge Advocate for the troops in the western Dept. In Nov 1783 I rec  a Brevet Majors Commission which was sent to the War office when I was (illegible) the Pan Agency as a Pensioner- and in June 1826 was transfer to the Kentucky agency, and drew as a pensioner from the 16th June 1826 to the 3 March 1828 at the rate of twenty dollars per month. Inclosed is a power of  attorney autorizing you act for me at the war office to get my claim as a Capt.registered and to do such thing or things necessary that I may obtain (Word missing) of the (illegible) Law for the relief of the (illegible) Soldiers of the Revolutionary army--You(word missing)  deduct out of the money which will be(word missing)(after deducting what I have rec, as a pension 16th June 1826 to 3d March 1828) five per cent (illegible) and transmit the rem to me,on the branch bank of the U.States in (illegible) to be forwarded to the Post Office Flemingsburg.
I am with Esteem your obe Serv.
                               Jno.Finley

Page 22

P. S.
any papers necessary to enable me to draw semiannually
what may be coming to me please forward with the east
Tinley
my
in
&
-
of
the

Page 23

No. of [?] payment 550
Revolutionary Claims.
Treasury Department
26 August 1828.
John Finley, _____________ of ______________
in the County of Fleming _____ in the State of Kentucky has applied to the Secretary of the Treasury for the benefits of the act, entitled "An Act for the relief of certain surviving officers and soldiers of the army of the Revolution," approved on the 15th of May, 1828.  He states that he was an officer on the Continental line, and served to the end of the war,
at which period he was a Captain in the eighth regiment of the Pennsylvania line; and that he received commutation certificates for the five years full pay granted by the resolve of 22 March, 1783; and, further, that he has received as a pensioner since the 18 June 1826, Twenty dollars per month, paid to him by the agent in the State of Kentucky.
The Third Auditor is requested to report how far these several statements are corroborated by the records in his office
[?] of the Secretary
[?]
Treasury Department,
Third Auditor's Office,
Aug. 27, 1828
It appears by the records in this office, that final settlement certificates have been issued for the commutation of five years full pay to Captain John Finley in the Penn line, amounting to Two Thousand four hundred dollars.  It further appears that John Finley [?] is now on the pension list of the Kentucky agency, and has been since the 13th June 1826 at the rate of twenty dollars per month.
[?]

Page 24

Transferred from Penn to Kentucky 24th June 1826 and [?], [?] sent to Geo M. Botty [?] [?] [?]
Availd himself of the pensions of the [?] May 15, 1828.  See letters 29 August 1828 to penion agreed - March 1820
over
[?] Ana R. French Aug 13. 1844

Page 25

[?] 24 June 1826
1 May 1830
John Finley.
(on [?] a roll March 1820)
Geo W. Botts, Flemingsburg, Kty.
Continuous pension to commence 13th June 1826.
Is [?] to Kentucky

Page 26

Flemingsburg June 13. 1826
Sir,
I return the papers of John Finley, with the deposition of Lealson D. Stockton, Clerk of the Fleming Circuit Court showing the lots of Finley's land, and the Certificate of George Roper, who has been [?] with Finley for [?] years.  Certifying the facts.  W. Clay know Roper personally and that he is [?] of [?] Circuit, and a man of high rank and integrity. - A complete record in the land case of Harlan's Heirs of Finley, showing the eviction ]?] would require one or two [?] of paper and cost - perhaps 40 or 50 dollars, or more.  I hope the [?]: of the Clerk of the Court where the [?] commenced and finely was ended with the Certificate of the bridge may be considered sufficient.
Respectfully Mr. [?] [?] Geo: M. Botts
J. L. Edwards Esq.

Page 27

United States Western District of Pennsylvania
Personally appeared before me the subscriber Judge of the N. [?] for the Western District of Pa. Gen. Adamson Tannehill late a Capt. in the Revolutionary war who being sworn [?] [?] that he is well acquainted with the within named John Findlay; that he became acquainted with the said John Findlay in the year 1779 in the Revolutionary Army.  That he said John Findlay served as a Capt in the Revolutionary war until the [?].  Thereof, that the said John Findlay always sustained the character of an honest man and good officer; that the said John Findlay is now in reduced circumstances in life and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support.
Sworn and subscribed before me this 17 day of December A.D 1819
Jonathan H. Walker

Page 28

United States Western District of Pennsylvania
Personally appeared before me the subscriber Jude of the N. [?] for the Western District of Pennsylvania Ebenezar Denny, late a Lieutenant in the Revolutionary arme and afterwards a Capt. in the United States Army in the first regiment under Gen. Harman, who being by once duly sworn [?] and [?], that he hath [?] acquainted with the within named Major John Findlay from the fall of the year 1784 till the present time.  That the said John Findlay has always maintained the character of an honest and honorable man.  That he said John Findlay is a gentleman of perfect truth and integrity and that he is now in reduced circumstances, in life and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support.
Sworn and subscribed before me this 17 day of December 1819.
E Denny
Jonathan H Walker

Page 29

Major John Findlay declaration to obtain a pension.
[?] regiment Col Stewart
1703 - to the end of the [?] Oct. 1819
Service admitted but by the rules and regulations for substantiating claims to pension - the person applying for a pension is "to declare under oath before the Judge, that from his [?] circumstances he needs the [?] of his country for support."

Page 30

United States Western District of Pennsylvania
I Jonathan H. Walker Judge as aforesaid do certify; that it appears to be my entire satisfaction that the above applicant [?] John Findlay served in the Revolutionary war as stated in the proceeding declaration against the common enemy on the continental establishment for the time of seven years at one time.  That as well from my own personal knowledge as the amended testimony I am satisfied that the above applicant is in reduced circumstances in life and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support.
Pittsburgh Dec 17, 1819
Jonathan H. Walker

Page 31

United States Western District of Pennsylvania
Before me the [?] Judge of the United States for the main District came William Blakeney who being duly sworn [?] and faith that this [?] a Captain in the United States service in the Revolutionary war well knew the within applicant Major John Finlay to have served in the maneuver [?] in his deposition.  That he also knew the said John Finlay to be in reduced circumstances in life and that he [?] in need of the [?] of his country for support and that the [?] John Finlay is a man of      integrity and truth.
Wm Blakeney
[?] this 7th Oct. 1819 
John H. Walker

Page 32

United States Western District of Pennsylvania
Jonathan H. Walker Judge [?] do certify that [?]
that the above applicant Major John Finlay served in the Revolutionary was as [?] in the preceding declaration against the [?] enemy on the continental [?] in the term of seven years at one time.  Thus as well from my own personal knowledge as from the [?] testimony I am satisfied that the [?] applicant is in reduced circumstances in life and [?] need of the [?] of his country for

Page 33

United States
Western District of Pennsyl Amer
I certify that the honorable
J. H. Walker who has signed the
above certificate & attestation,
is the Judge of
the United States
in & for the said District
Witness my hand & the seal of the
said District Court this 7th
AD 1819 and in the forty
16
day of October
the men of the
Independence of the Unite parte
Walkerk
1
to
my

Page 34

Rec.'d Aug. 29 1828

Page 35

[block plate font] Revolutionary Claims.
[dividing line]
Under the act, entitle "An act for the relief of certain surviving Officers and Soldiers of the Army of the Revolution," approved 15th May, 1828.
[dividing line]

TREASURY DEPARTMENT
[handwritten] 27 August 1828

SIR:
I have the honor to inform you that John Finley formerly a Captain in the Eighth, Regiment of the Pennsylvania line of the Continental Army ; and who has heretofore received a pension at the Kentucky, agency, has been admitted to the benefits of the abovementioned act.
I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,

[signed] Richard Ruth
The Hon. the SECRETARY OF WAR.
[handwritten] No. 93.

[handwritten] Ma 1820

Page 36

Brief in the case of [handwritten] John Finley dec
County and State of [handwritten] Kentucky
act [handwritten] 7 June 1832.

[dividing line]
Claim, ("original," or "for increase.")

Proof exhibited, [handwritten strikethrough] (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
[handwritten response] This claim was allowed under Act of 1818 and 15 May 1828 for service as Capt. There has been recently introduced record and hard evidence to prove he acted more than his year as Brigade Major. I therefore increase it to $600 deduct $480 which was paid
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
[handwritten response] heir under Act of '28. See paper under that Act.

Page 37

N
J
UL
by his
30
Son
P
Edmand
FREE
●
Free
R French
Copy
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D. C
2489
it

Page 38

Flemingsburg July 30th 1844.

Dear Sir--
I in the discharge of my duty as a Representative have to request of you to send me a transcript of the pension papers on file in the pension office, of the late Capt John Finley. 

He drew a pension in money in his lifetime. - please inform me when he commenced drawing, under what law, and the amount per annum

Also whether he ever received any bounty land.

Also if his name be not on the Rolls and whether he did not serve during the revolutionary war.

My object is to get for his heirs if they be entitled, everything to which he was entitled in his lifetime for his services, and which he did not draw.

He was said to have been of the Pennsylvania continental line, but drew his pension after he came to Ky- and perhaps before he came to Ky-

If a Capt through the whole war what would have been his pay in money and land--? I want a copy of all the papers + evidences on file as soon as practicable, together with all the information in your power to give me.

Page 39

Color in this matter nothing is contemptible
but what truth and justice will
warrant, and if a million were to be
the cost of I would be
in hands or become mene
is in the hope you
my
the more readily and fully comply.
with my request.
Very respectfully do
---
Richard French
N B.
direct to my post office
Mountherlong

Page 40

No. 38.[416]
John Finley dec.
Ky
[unclear] 7 June 1832.
Adm?
2 yrs Brig Maj $1000
per Ann. from 4 March
1831 to when he died 10 Apl. 1837
Deducting $480 per ann
allowed him under [Act]
13 May 1828.
Payable to
David D. Finley [unclear]
for the benefit of himself
Martha Peebles, Jane
McCabe, Elizabeth Ann
Farras, & Sarah Dillon
only surviving children

Cert to
D. D. Addison
President

Page 41

Name
John Finley
Letter
H
No
907
Date
December 10. 1788
Amount
34.66
When due
May 1. 1778
Treasury Department
Registers Office 22 Sep 1852
I certify that the above is a true extract from the
Register of certificate issued by Jonathan Burnall Commr
for settling the account of the Commissary and Quarter
Master Department from the 22 August 1782 the 7 May
1789
N Sargent
Register

Page 42

Department of State.
Washington. Aug' 13. 1852

DD. Addison Esq.
Washington.

Sir.
In compliance with your request of the 11th ind {symbol}, an examination of the Washington papers has been made. for evidence of the alleged revolutionary service of Cap. John Finley, as Brigade Major with this result.

In "Army Returns. Vol. 103. p. 6" there is a paper entitled. Monthly return of troops "in the service of the United States, commanded by "William Irevine Esq. Briga General. Fort Pitt
"Dec. 30th 1781."             This paper is signed
"In Finley MB." and Irevine B Genl. and in a marginal note is the following,  "Officer in Staff Dept. Capt. John Finley. Brigade Major."

Page 43

Washington August 28, 1832

Sir,

The ground when which [unclear] claim an increase of pension in the case of Capt John Finley is that he served several years as Brigade Major to Genl Irvin of Penn. in addition and at the same time he was a captain in the line & served in both capacities to its close of the war.

When reference to his papers under the Act of 1818 you will perceive that his service as Brigade Major & [unclear] of Brigade is there fully and distinct [unclear passage] and that the same is confirmed by the affidavit of one of his brothers & his Capt. Blakeney who belonged to the same regiment. Under the Act of 1828 he again reasserts his staff service and you will find among his papers a certificate from the Sec of State showing that he held the grade of Brigade Major in Dec. 1781, which is the only datum of [unclear] under Genl. Irvine now to be

Page 44

and

No claim is made for service as
Brevet Major. He did not serve a
day in that capacity & if he had served
it would not have entitled him to any
increase of pension as it did not increase his pay
Mhesle
D.D. Addison
For pay of Brigade Major in addition to
their pay in the line see Vol 2 Page 569
Journal of Congress, May 27 1778

F. F. Clrplell Esq
Chief Clerk

Page 45

Washington Sept 23 1832

D.Sir,

I enclose herewith a certificate from the Register's Office showing that John Finley was in the [unclear] service as early as May 1778. The evidence from the State Dept. heretofore filed [inset unclear] shows that he was still the that service on the 30 Dec. 1781, making a period of three years & 7 months . These certificates you will perceive corroborates, so far as they go, his statement that of his [unclear] Capt Wm Blakeney, that he, Finley, was in service as Brigade Major & at from 1777 to November 1780.

As there can now certainly be no objection to the admission of his claim under the act of 1832, I do hope no further delay will ensue but that a certificate of pension may issue forthwith to his administrator & son, David D. Finley, Esqr.

[unlcear salutation]
D D Addison

J E Heath Esqr
Adm of Pensions

Page 46

Capt. John Finley
[unclear]

D. D. Addison
Present

Page 47

Washington August 1832
Sir,
Enclosed you will find
the application [illegible] of the heirs of Capt.
John Finley, dec'd. for an increase of
pension under the act of June 7, 1832.
Capt. Finley was at the time of 
his death a pensioner on the Kentucky roll
under the act of 15 May, 1828 and previous
thereto had been a pensioner under the act
of 1818 in the same state. He was
allowed under the act 15 May 1828 for
his service on the line as Capt, but
having served for some six years, also
in the capacity of Brigade Major
in the staff his heirs now claim an allowance
for his services as Capt and B. Major
of $600 per an. under the act of 1832 refer
to his papers under the act of 1818 & 1828
for proof thereof. The affidavit of Capt
Wm. Blakeney under act 1818, prove his service.
But it will not be amiss also to refer to the 
enclosed certificate from the Secretary of

Page 48

State, the honorable Dan'l Webster.
Certificate of Courts also enclosed.
Showing date of death & names of children
& administrator in the name of the latter.
I request the Certificate to be issued.
Respectfully
[illegible]
D. D. Addison

J. E. Heath, Esq.
[illegible] Pension

Page 49

I Leakew D. Stockton, Clerk of the Fleming Circuit Court in the State of Kentucky; do certify on Oath that from a careful examination of the record of my office, it appeared that in the year 1809 George Harlan,  William Harlan and others, Heirs of Elijah Harlan deceased, brought an Ejectment against John Finley, and others for the land on which the said John Finley then lived. The Harlan's having the elder legal Title of the land as appears of record, the said John Finley in the year 1811. confessed a judgement at Law for the same, at the same time reserving his right of Equity, And at the same Court files his Bill in Chancery, seting up the equity of his elder entry against said Harlan's elder legal title, and obtained an injunction.- at the September Term 1818 of said Court the said Finley's Bill in chancery was dismissed, giving to the Harlan's the benefit of their Judgement at Law for the Land in dispute; From which decree the said Finely appealed to the Court of Appeals, which is the Highest Judicial Tribunal in the State.
That it further appears from the record of my office, that the Court of Appeals, on the 9th day of October 1820 Confirmed the decree of the Fleming Circuit Court, which decree of the Court of Appeals was by the law of the State, required to be entered of record in the Court from which the appeal was taken: And at the March Term 1821. the said decree was produced in Court

Page 50

by the Attorney for the Harlan's and entered of record
in the order book of the Fleming Circuit Court, taking 
up seven full pages therein.
I further state on oath, that I know the John
Finley, who lost his land with the Harlan's is the
same John Finley now endeavouring to be to be continued
on the pension roll as a revolutionary officer
and that the lands received by the Harlan's from
him was of the most indifferent kind of park
land not worth more than
I believe the said Finley to be very poor and needs the
assistance of friends or his country to aid him in a suffering.
L. D. Stockton
Fleming County Set.  
The above named Leaken D. Stockton, Esq.
clerk of the Fleming Circuit Court, for the County above 
named, this day personally appeared before me the
subscriber a Justice of the Peace for said County and
signed and made oath to the foregoing statement
according to law. Given under my hand the
12th day of June 1826.
Wm. Goddard 
Fleming County Set.

I Joshua Stockton clerk of the court
for the county aforesaid certify that William Goddard Esquire
whose name appears to the foregoing certificate, was at the
time of signing the same and now is an acting Judge
of the Court for the said county
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my name and affixed the seal of said 
County at Flemingsburg this 12th day of
June A.D. 1826
Joshua Stockton Clk

Page 51

State of Kentucky, Fleming circuit
First Judicial District 502.
I William P Roper Judge of the
circuit and district aforesaid. Certify
that the facts stated in the foregoing
deposition of Leaken D. Stockton who
is clerk of the Fleming Circuit Court
in relation to the loss of John Finley
land, and of record in this office of 
said court, and the said John Finley
who is now making application for
a pension is the same who lost
his land in the controversy with
Harland's heirs, having known him
well for twenty four years.
Given under my hand 13th day of
June 1826.
William P Roper

Page 52

[faint handwriting, upper left] Rev sec Mis
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington D.C.
Dear Sir: Will you kindly advise me if the Revolutionary war records of your office contain the name of John Finley (or his widow,) who served in the above named war, from either the state of Tenn or Ky?
Very respt
Mrs H.J. Walker
La Crosse Kas
5-30-28

Page 53

My Dear Col. Kniffen:-
My cousin, Trish Murford Howard, has informed me of your willingness to assist us in our quest of data in the case of my paternal great, great grand father, David Duncan of Pittsburgh. I had no trouble in securing the facts concerning the service of my great grandfather Maj. John Finley, who married Hannah the daughter of David Duncan

Page 54

Kenty and built a home at the upper spring,
where he died and was buried in the family
burial ground in Apr. 1837. My father was
only five years old at the time, but had a vivid
recollection of his wig, silver knee + shoe buckles.
It is a tradition in the family that grand
father Duncan left a large + valuable tract
of land (rich in oil + coal) in and around
Pittsburg, which the heirs disposed of for a
mere song. I am enclosing you a copy of information secured by Mr. Leach sent me by Mrs Kate Duncan Smith, Vice Pres
of the National D.A.R. and Regent of Ala, who is a descendant of Daniel Duncan, a brother of David.
I sent in my papers on the Duncan line, but
they were returned, asking for the dates of his
birth, marriage (name of wife) and death, which data I have not been able to secure.
Mrs. Smith is positive her information is true.
I shall be so grateful if you assist me
in securing this information. I am anxious
that fish shall leave the two here to her
recognition pin. We have no chapter in
our town, my membership is with the Lex chapter, at Lexington Ky.

Page 55

Maj. Finley was 1st Lieu of the 8th Pen Reg. was Capt. in 1777 - was in command of Fort Pitt in 80-81 - was transferred from the 8th to the 5th Penn Reg. in Jan '81 - in '82 again transferred to the 2nd-- he served until June 3, 1783.
His home was in Westmorland Co. Penn
He came down the Ohio in 1773 with Gen. Thompson's surveying party-landed at Maysville, came inland + discovered the Blue Lick Springs - with 3 others of the party, after returning to Penn, they cast lot for the section of land in
which the upper spring was included.
It fell to the lot of my grand-father {Collins History of Kentucky
after the war he came to

Page 56

2.
Bud gave me the June number of the bulletin of the S. AR. I was interested in the reports, especially the statement that the government
would provide, through the Quarter Master Gen, without cost, marble head stones for Rev. soldiers- The children of Cassius M. Clay - grand
children of "Grey beard Sam Clay own - run the old home - the burial ground is not enclosed + the marker of Maj. Finley's grave has become
defaced - I should like to see it suitable marked and with the

Page 57

consent of the Clays, a enclosure provided for the graves. Will you kindly instruct me as to the -proceedure to secure the marker? I shall be or grateful for any assistance you can render me - I am the only member of our branch of the Finley family that is interested in genealogy. The
record of the Finleys in this country is one to be justly proud of.
Samuel Finley-first President of
Princeton was an uncle of Maj. Finley

Page 58

Bud and Trish tell us you are to drive to Kenty in September. I am anticipating the pleasure of kerring you. Am afraid your time will be too short for me to claim much of it for genealogy.
I, as well as L'or, and Mrs Morford, appreciate your kindness to Trish. She never tires of telling us of yours and "sister's" attentions to them. We have taken Berd into the family fold. consider him one of us.
Hoping I may welcome you into Kenty in the early fall.

Sincerely,
(Miss) Jane B. Tilton
Carlisle, Ky
July, 9, 1913

Will you please to return enclosed letter?

Page 59

Monmouth Ill Nov. 17 1901
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington DC.
Sir:-
Kindly inform me whether John Findley who was commissioned First Lieutenant, August 9, 1776 of a company of the Eighth Pennsylvania Continental line, Daniel Brodhead Colonel, see page 323 Volume three Pennsylvania Archives, Fifth series, Drew a pension if so when did his death occur and where.
Also, inform me whether John Ritchie who was a private "on duty" in Lieutenant James Calhoun's Company of the Sixth Battalion, Lancaster County Militia, June 1781, see page 578 Volume seven, Pennsylvania Archives, Fifth series, Drew a pension, if so when did his death occur and where.
The information above was sent by the state Librarian, Harrisburg Pa.
Would like all the facts concerning them.
Resp.
Miss Martha A Findley
204 south A rd.

Page 60

[written on a hotel notepad]
"A Home While Away From Home"
Tel. FITZROY 5540   RATES $1.50 and Up
HOTEL FIELD
445 FIELD AVENUE
OPPOSITE BELLE ISLE PARK
DETROIT

Two Hundred and Fifty Rooms
Advanced Modern Accommodations

Sept 16, 33
The Director of Pensions
Washington, D.C.

Sir,
Will you kindly advise me if Capt John [underline]  Finley [end underline], who enlisted as 1st Lt at York Pa Aug 9, 1777 in the 8th Reg. Commanded by Col Wm Broadhead.
Was promoted to Capt Oct 22, 1777 
[interjected] served in 8th till 81, 
transferred to 5th and to the 2d after 1781 and served to the end of the war in 1783.
Did he apply for a pension and [underline] if so [end underline] Will you [underline] kindly supply [end underline] me with such of his [underline] personal or family history [end underline] as possessed by your department.
There were two other John Finleys who served as officers in the 8th But only one who enlisted Aug 9, 77
I do not believe this John Finley
[notepad text in between last two lines] Operated by Wolverine Management Company

Page 61

[written on a hotel notepad]
"A Home While Away From Home"
Tel. FITZROY 5540   Rates $1.50 and Up
HOTEL FIELD
445 FIELD AVENUE
OPPOSITE BELLE ISLE PARK
DETROIT

Two Hundred and Fifty Rooms
Advanced Modern Accomodations

ever applied for a pension and that he died in 1820 in Ohio Co. Pa a bachelor.
But am anxious to trace his personal record, for family genealogy and will thank you for the trouble I may be causing you

Yours Truly
Howard Finley
Field Hotel
Detroit
Mich

[faint watermark/stamp in lower right corner]

Operated by Wolverine Management Company

Page 62

[Letterhead]
A Non-Profit Organization doing for Motorists Collectively what they could not do for themselves Individually. 

TERRE HAUTE AUTO CLUB
[following in print across top of page, letterhead]
Directors
C.R. Randel, President
J.P. McKibben, Vice-President
F.M. Powell, 1st Vice-President
J.M. Freitag, 2nd Vice-President
W.E. Rahel, Treasurer 
W.H. Brewer, Secretary

TERRE HAUTE HOUSE
CRAWFORD 2338

[ stamp with club logo]

STATE AND NATIONAL A.A.A. Affiliation

Directors
G.W. Kristenstein
V.F. Miller
C.C. Newlin
G.O. Nicolai
R.G Nunn
F.D. Oakley
F.S. Rawley
J.F. Shandy
J.R. White.   
[stamp overlaying last name reads "Adminstrator's Office Sep 13 19(illegible) Received"]

TERRE HAUTE, INDIANA
[end letterhead, begin handwritten letter]

Sept 10, 1933
Veterans Administration
Washington, D.C
Gentlemen:  Mr A.D. Hiller [underlined]
Will you kindly give me a copy of your complete record for Revolutionary War record of.

John Finley [underlined] of Fleming Co Ky - who served in the 8th Regt. of Pa line.
with facts of record to place of enlistment, name of wife, residence ilc.
Yours Truly
W H Brewer
2001 N 9 St

[ stamp reading Received Sep 14 1933 mail sub-div. vets.adm reader 18 with an arrow pointing to a marker on outer circle of stamp just before the number 4]

Page 63

[Document showing image of bank and title C. C. Dawes, Asst Cashier in upper left corner]
No 6323
[Letterhead as follows]
First National Bank
Capital $100,000.00
Surplus $100,000.00
Paris, Ky.


March
Twenty-eighth
1925

Pension Office,
Washington, D.C.

Gentlemen:

Will you kindly furnish me with the family and Revolutionary War records of Major John Finley and Captain John Finley, both of Fleming County, Ky., who are my ancestors?

Thanking you in advance for this favor, I am,
Very truly yours,
C.C Dawes

Page 64

July 17, 1913

Miss Jane B Tilton,
 Cor. Maple & Chestnut Streets,
 Carlisle, Ky.

Madam:

In reply to your letter dated the 9th and received the 14th instant, you are advised that from the papers in the claim of John Finley, Sur. File No. 31,025 , it appears that soldier was born July 21, 1748, and on July 6, 1776, was commissioned First Lieutenant and served in Captain Moses Carson's company, Col. Aenas Mackey and Daniel Brodhead's 8th Pennsylvania regiment, and in October 1777, he was promoted Captain of said regiment. At first reduction of Pennsylvania Line, he was transferred to Col. Richard Butler's 5th Pennsylvania regiment, and at second reduction was transferred to Col. R.[handwritten edit] Humpton's 2nd Pennsylvania regiment, but never joined either regiment, having bee ordered West in 1778, under General McIntosh and remained there as Inspector and Judge Advocate of the Western Department and as General [hand edit] Wm. Irvine's Brigade Major. He was appointed Brevet Major U.S.A. , October [hand edit] 10, 1783, and was discharged November 1783, at Pittsburg, PA. from the Continental Establishment of the Revolutionary Army. He was in the battles of Ash Swamp, Bound Brook, Brandywine, Paoli and Germantown. 

He was allowed pension on an application executed October

Page 65

. 31,025. - 2

7, 1819, while a resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

In 1826 his [edited on document in handwritten note] wife Hannah was sixty years old. Children were David D., Samuel, Martha married --- Peebles. Mariah Jane married --- McCabe, Elizabeth or Betsey Ann married --- Farras, Hannah Sarah married --- Dillon.

In order to secure a tombstone for Major Finley's grave, application should be made to the Quarter-master General, U.S.A. War Department.

The Revolutionary War records of the Bureau fail to afford any information in regard to David Duncan described by you.

Very Respectfully, 
Acting Commissioner

Page 66

C. C. Dewes
Paris, Ky.

Sir,
I have to advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim S. 31035 it appears that John Finley was born July 21, 1748, the place not stated.

He was commissioned July6, 1776 First Lieutenant and served in Captain Moses Carson's Company, Colonel Aenas Mackey and Daniel Brodhead's Eight Pennsylvania Regiment and in October 1777 was promoted Captain of said regiment. At first reduction of Pennsylvania Line, he was transferred to Colonel Richard Butler's Fifth Pennsylvania Regiment, and at a second reduction was transferred to Colone R. Humpton's Second Pennsylvania Regiment, but never joined either regiment, having been ordered West in 1778 under General McIntosh and remained there as Inspector and Judge Advocate of the Western Department and as General William Irvine's Brigade Major. He

Page 67

was appointed Brevet Major U. S. A. October 10, 1783 and was discharged in November 1783, Pennsylvania, form the Continental Establishment of the Revolutionary Army. He was in the battles of Ash Swamp, Bound Brook, Brandywine, Paoli and Germantown.

He was allowed pension on his application executed October 7, 1819 while a resident of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. He died April 10, 1837 in Fleming County, Kentucky.

In 1826 his wife Hannah was sixty years old. Her maiden name is not given. Children David D. , Samuel (who in 1826 were both married, names of wives not stated), Martha who married......Peebles, Mariah Jane born about 1819 and married.......McCabe, Elizabeth Ann or Betsey Ann who married......Farras, Hannah Sarah born about 1813 and married........Dillon. All of said children survived the soldier except Samuel.

The above noted is the only Captain and Major John Finley of Fleming County, Kentucky found on the Revolutionary War records of this Bureau.
[hand written in margin] Miss W- said add this par + [illegible] said John Finley [illegible] of Pa. line who rec B. Land as he only got 200 acres + Captains res. more [illegible]
 
Respectfully,
Wilder S. Metcalf
Commissioner

Page 68

Dear Sir:

Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of John Finley of Fleming County, Kentucky, who served in the 8th regiment, of [crossed out] Pennsylvania line.

The record of John Finley is furnished herein as found in the papers on file in his claim for pension, S. 31025, based upon his service in the Revolutionary War.

John Finely was born July 21, 1748; the place and names of his parents are not stated.

He was commissioned July 6, 1776, 1st Lieutenant, served in Captain Moses Carson's company, Colonel Aenas Mackey and Daniel Brodhead's 8th Pennsylvania regiment and was in the battles of Ash Swamp, Bound Brook,  Brandywine, Paoli and Germantown; in October, 1777, he was promoted to Captain of said regiment. [Illegible] reduction of the Pennsylvania Line, he was transferred to Colonel Richard Butler's 5th Pennsylvania regiment, and, at second reduction, was transferred to Colonel R. Humpton's 2nd Pennsylvania regiment, but never joined either regiment, having been ordered west in 1778 under General McIntosh, and remained there as Inspector and Judge Advocate of the Western Department and as General William Irvine's Brigade Major. On October 10, 1783 at Princeton, New Jersey, he was brevetted Major, U.S.A. and was discharged in November, 1783, at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, from the Continental Establishment of the Revolutionary Army.

The soldier was allowed pension on his application executed October 7, 1819, at which time he resided in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

In 1826, he was a resident of Fleming County, Kentucky. He died

Page 69

April 10, 1837, in Fleming County, Kentucky.

In 1826, Hannah, the wife of John Finley, was sixty years of age; her maiden name, the names of her parents and the date and place of her birth are not shown. Soldier's sons, David D. and Samuel were then married and lived away from their father; the children who lived at home then were Betsey Ann, twenty-one years old, Mariah Jane, sixteen years old, and Hannah Sarah, thirteen years old.

In 1852, the names of the surviving children of Captain John Finley are shown as follow: David D. FInley of Fleming County, Kentucky; Martha (Finley) Peebles; Jane (Finley) McCabe; Elizabeth Ann (Finley) Farras; and Sarah (Finley) Dillon.  There are no further data relative to any of said children.

Very Truly yours,
A. D. Hiller,
Assistant to Administrator.