Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 5331, Abraham De Forest, New Jersey

Page 1

(8-1776)

[columns headings: 
Service
Number]

Service:  New Jersey

Deforest,
Abraham

Number:  
S5331

carded

Page 2

29020
Pennsylvania
Abraham DeForest
in the state of Pa
Ensign in the _________command
[illegible] of the __________ command
_____________ in the Pennsylvania
Militia _______ N.J.
[illegible] Ensign $240.00
#29020
[illegible] in the Roll of Pennsylvania
the rate of 240 Dollars ______________ Cents per annum
commence on the 4th day of March, 1831
Certificate of Pension [illegible] the 20th day of Feb
[illegible] Sent to
[illegible] Hon [illegible]
to the date of Sep 1833 | 500.00
[illegible] allowance ending 4 Mch 31 | 120
 | $720
[illegible]

Letter to MG Sutliff of Pension
Agent June 21 1844
to M CG Sutliff 3 July 1844
to Penn Pa Agt 24 Oct 44
" A & CG Sutliff Nov 26 '44
JR Gidding Pen Agent
Jany 1845
Letter to Pension Agt 1 April 1845
"    "      Sanee & JB Trevor
May 12 1845
Letter to Pen Agt 11 Nov 1845
Sanee pension & M & G [illegible]
20 April 1846
Letter to Pen Agt [illegible]
" to JB Trevor & Pen Agt
7 Oct 1846
Letter to JB Trevor of Pension
Agent 31 March 1847
Letter to M LCG Sutliff June 10 184
"   to JB Trevor of Pen Agt 20
Sep 1847
Died Dec 11, 1847
[illegible]

Page 3

Mercer GA
Nov. 6
Revolutionary Claim
Free.
Lewis Cass Secretary of War
Washington City

[written sideways] Nov. [?].12 Pr. Abraham Deforest 17534 [check mark]

Page 4

(1 to 10)  Page No. 1
State of Pennsylvania | 
Mercer County | ss.
On this second day of October 1832
Personally appeared in open court, being a court of record, Before 
John Breden Esquire President, Alesor Brown & Wm Amberson [illegible]
[illegible], of the Court of Common pleas of Mercer County now sitting
Lieut. Abraham Deforrest a resident of Hickory Township in Mercer County
Pennsylvania.  Aged 82 years, who being duly sworn according to law
doth on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the
the benefit of the act of Congress passed 7th of June 1832.
That he entered the service of the United States under the following
named Officers, and served as herein stated, Viz.
In the month of March 1776 this deponent enlisted, in Captain Frederick
Freelinghisens Company for one year, in Somerset County in the
State of New Jersey.  We then marched into Hunterdon County and in
about two months Captain Freelenhisen gave up his command and he Deforrest
Joined Captn. Allagans Company, and marched to Amboy, where we
were more than one month, a Company was then made up [illegible]
several Companies there and he joined said Company commanded
by Captn. Hazlet of the Lebanon Battalion, we then returned to Readingtown,
(Jersey) we then [illegible] after he was discharged.
He then went out in Captn. Jacob Tenicks Company one month at
Elizabethtown in July 1776 and again in August at Newark [illegible]
one month in Abraham Teniks Company and was discharged.  Again in
November in 1776 he joined the Service, in David Schamps Company
in Laden Town, Jersey when the British crossed through the Jerseys, 
Genl. Washington retreated before them.  We were engaged in 
watching the movement of the British and Tories, had some scirmishes,
with the Tories to prevent them from Joining the British.  During
this tour, Genl. Washington took the Hession at Trenton in the 26th of December
and the Battle at Princetown where he took a number of Prisoners.
On the 2nd day of January 1777 he was out occasionally through the remainder
of that winter.  But his memory is much frailed and cannot recollect dates
particularly.  In April the British came out to Somerset near the court
house and encamped where he was called out in David Schamps Company
and was scouting round in parties.  In the last of May or beginning of June
1777 the enemy returned by Amboy & Elizabethtown & Newark, and took shipping,
Genl Washington then went toward North River, and when Washington found
the enemy went into the Chesapeake Bay.  He returned across the country
to head them, at this time the Militia were guarding and watching the
shores about Elizabethtown Amboy and other places.  (he now says
that before the enemy came across the Jerseys, he was engaged in conveying
Adams, and Hancock up through the Jerseys, on to Easton and Allentown
in Pennsylvania) Says that the Jerseys was pretty much the seat of war, and
often alarmed and the calls were very frequent, so that he considered

Page 5

himself almost constantly in the service. Sometimes they would be at home a while and out again ??. In this way he continued being frequently called out through the years 1778-1779 & 1780 and continued to server whenever he was called upon through the war.  Says that he is certain he was more than three years in actual service; and that he served sometimes, as an officer, and served as an Ensign for more than two years.  He Abraham Deforest says he has no documentary evidence of his service, nor does he know of any living witnesses by whom he could prove his service; Except Captn David Schamf whose deposition accompanies this application being the Captain he served under, and by whom, he was often employed to carry information to and from Genl Washington as occasion required.  ????? Where and in what year were you born?

Page 6

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion of
the investigation prescribed by the War department that the
above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier or
Militia Man and served as he states.  And the Court
further certifies that it appears to them that Richard Haughland
and John Mitchellen who have signed the pension
certificates are residents in the County of Mercer and are
creditable persons, and that their statements are entitle
to credit
WS Rankin Prot

Mercer County ss Wm S Rankin Clerk of the Court of Common 
pleas of said County Do hereby certify
that the foregoing Abraham Deforest contains
the original proceedings of the said Court in
the matter of the application of Abraham
Deforest for a pension In Testimony whereof
I have hereunto set my hand and seal of
said Court this 2 day of October Eighteen
hundred and Thirty two
Wm S Rankin Clerk

It will be observed that Abm Deforest claims as a Lieut
and request the answer to his application to be returned 
to Alexander Brown Esq in Mercer
Mercer County
Pennsylvania

I am well acquainted with Abraham Deforest have known him well
for [illegible] years. he [illegible] I have no doubt for
lack of memory [illegible] the times and dates of his service and the service
the of the tours [illegible] he is a very honest and [illegible] and a
[illegible] I have the [illegible] in the truth
of his statements
[illegible] Banks
House of [illegible]
July 6 1833

Page 7

[margin landscape text]
The word "seven" on this page was intuitional before signing
James Bentley JP

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss.
Be it known that before me
James Bently a Justice of the peace in
and for the County aforesaid, personally
applicant Abram DeForest and made oath
in due form of law.  That he is the identical
person named in an original pension
certificate now illegally withheld by Isaac
DeForest of Mercer County, Pa. with whom
he formally resided; that he removed to 
Brookfield, Trumbull County, Ohio in
February 1844 to live with his daughter
and with whom he now resides.
That said Isaac without any just cause
withheld and still continues to withhold
said certificate though often requested
to deliver up the same: That he is
entitled to a pension of Twenty dollars
per month on account of services rendered
to the United States during the Revolutionary
War: that he served in Captain Ten Icks
Company of New Jersey Militia: That he 
now resides in Brookfield, Trumbull
County, and State of Ohia, and has resided
there for the space of three years, and [crossed out] seven
months past and that previous thereto he
resided in Hickory Township, Mercer County
Pa.
Abram [his X mark] Deforest
James Bentley  
A.B. Waldorf
Sworn to and subscribed this seventh day of
Sept AD 1847
Before me James Bentley
Justice of the peace

Page 8

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Be it known that before me
James Bently a Justice of the peace in and for
said County personally appeared Catherine
Coon daughter of said Abram DeForest and
William Coon husband of said Catherine
who made oath in due form of Law that they
from personal knowledge verily believe that
the facts set forth by said Abram DeForest - in 
the preceding affidavit relating to his pension
Certificate are true.  That he resides with them 
and is in the ninety ninth year of his age.
William Coon
Catherine Coon
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 7th
day of Sept AD 1847.
James Bently Justice of the peace
State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Sept 7th AD 1847
Conformably to the regulations of the War Department
of the 27th of October 1832.  I James
Bently a magistrate in the County aforesaid do
hereby certify that I have the most satisfactory
evidence, viz: the affidavits of William and
Catherine Coon and personal knowledge
that Abram DeForest who this day appeared
before me to take the oath of identity is the
identical Pensioner he declares himself to
be in the annexed affidavit and I am
also satisfied that the statement made
by him in relation to the pension certificate is
true.  Given under my hand at Brookfield
the day and year above written
James Bentley

Page 9

Know all persons by these presents that I
Abram DeForest of Brookfield, Trumbull County,
Ohio, a pensioner of the United States, do hereby
constitute and appoint J.B. Trevor of Philadelphia
my trust and lawful attorney for me and
in my name to receive from the agent of the
United States for paying pensions in Philadelphia,
State of Pennsylvania my pensionfrom the
4th day of March 1847 to the 4th day of Sept 1847
Witness my hand and seal this Seventh day of Sept.
1847.
Sealed and delivered
in presence of | Abram [his X mark] DeForest [seal drawn]
James Bentley
AB Waldorf

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss.
Be it known that on the
seventh day of Sept 1847 before the subscriber a
Justice of the peace in and for said County
personally appeared Abram DeForest above named
and acknowledged the foregoing power of
attorney to be his act and deed.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my
hand, the day and year last above mentioned
James Bentley Justice of the peace

Page 10

The State of Ohio | I Warren Young Clerk of the
Trumbull County ss | Court of Common Pleas of said
County of Trumbull certify that
James Bentley Esq by whom the
within and foregoing acknowledgements
and affidavits were taken was at the
dates thereof an acting Justice of the peace
within and for the said County duly qualified, and as
such duly authorized to take the same and that his
commission is dated October 20th AD 1845 and will
expire on the 20th day of October AD 1848 And further
that I am acquainted with the handd writing of 
said Justice.  And believe the signature purporting to
be his are genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand
and affixed the seal of said Court at Warren this
8th day of September AD 1847
Warren Young Clerk

Page 11

Abraham DeForrest
Pennsylvania
[crossed out]
Adm 2 years as
Ensign
Hon John Banks
House of Representatives

Page 12

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
18th January 1834
Sir:

bath
3
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has
been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of
your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following miles and
the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist which must be removed,
before a pension can be allowed.  The notes and the regulations will shew what is
necessary to be done.  Those points to which your attention is more particularly directed,
you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus}). You will, when
you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and
you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your
claim.
A Statement, showing the service of Abraham De Forrest
[tabular form not filled with data]
Alleges a Service of two years as an Ensign

I am respectfully,
Your obedient servant
JAMES L. EDWARDS,
Commissioner of Pensions.
The difficulty in the claim is the want of precision as
to his different tours of Service.  If the claimant can point 
out his different tours so as to make two years an Ensign the 
Claim will be admitted

Page 13

2
REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army,
and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers, all
persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who
were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to
Store Keepers, &c, Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are
also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged
in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
1. The Regular Troops.
2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.
3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.
4. Indian Spies.
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming
the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will, in the first
instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of
Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is
considered a Court of Record.
DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of | 
County of  | ss.
On this _____ day of _____ personally appeared (a) before
A.B. a resident (b) of ______ in the county of _______ and State, Territory or District
of _________ aged (c) ________ years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the
following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed
June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) _______, with ________ and
served in the __________ (e) regiment of the _________ line, under the following named officers:
Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served 
under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the
town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged,
and the country through which he marched. This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons
who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.
He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he
declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of
the Agency in the State of 
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.  A. B.
And then will follow the certificate of the Court.
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary
soldier, and served as he states.
I ________________ of the Court of _________________
do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of
the application of _________________________ for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this
____________ day of ______________________ & c.
If, on examination of the proper record, the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be
found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia,
except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and
subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman, residing in the _______________ and C. D. residing in (the same )
hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with _____________________ , who has
subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be __________
years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier
of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after
putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary
Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that A.B.
who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the ________________
and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the ______
and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, ________________ Clerk of the Court of ______________ do hereby certify that the foregoing
contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of ________________
for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal
of office, this ______ day of _________ & c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission
; but if neither of these can be obtained the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if
possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services
of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light
upon the transaction.
If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will
also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful
in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his

Page 14

alleged service, as they are known at the Department.  A very full account of the services of each person
will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case.  The facts stated will afford one of the principal
means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted;
and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected.
All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and
there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his
case.
The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of
service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State
troops of Virginia.
1. Where and in what year were you born?
2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary 
war, and where do you now live?
4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute?
And if a substitute, for whom?
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such
Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.
6. {To a Solder. | Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, 
and what has become of it?
6. {To an Officer | Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what
has become of it?
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify
as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution.
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are
requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court,
without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons--one of whom should be
the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from
their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed
and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion.
If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character
and standing of other persons giving such certificates.
The traditionary evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct
proof, except the declaration of the party.  And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the
inquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before
required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper
county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform,
and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record,
or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper
Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a
Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is
his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before
the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the
declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, 
taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period
of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the
opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.


(a) The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
(b) The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not
conforming to the rule.
(c) The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
(d) The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
(e) Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the
claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled.  In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the
loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason
of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his
recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades: - For _______year ___________ months, and _______
days, I served as a ________ For ______________months and _________ days, I served as a ___________; and for such service I claim a pension"
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law
directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service.  The use of the phrase about three or four months,
is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years
in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is
highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagment;
the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied [illegible] ;
that he was either in the hold or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil
pursuit.
(f) The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
(g) The opinion of the Court is always required.
(h) The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
(i) The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public
seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should never pay the
papers.
Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains
the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must
pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate
in under that office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
Proof of Service
(j) In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the in the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses
who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and master of his leaving the same, as well 
as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged.  The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses
and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
The notes from (a) to (l) are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule is
note il applies to continental troops only.
(k) This traditionary evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
(l) If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
(m) The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

Page 15

In reply to your request of _________, received _________
for a statement of the military history of Abraham Deforest,
a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired
information as contained in his [crossed out] application for pension
on file in this Bureau.  S.5331
DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. | LENGTH OF SERVICE. | RANK. | OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE [crossed out] | STATE.
| | | CAPTAIN. | COLONEL. | 
First enl. Mch. 1776 and served short tours at various times amounting
to more than three years as Private, Orderly Sergeant and Ensign
under Captains Frederick Frelinghuysen
Allager
William Hazlet
Jacob Ten Eyck
Abraham, Ten Eick
David Schamp
Battles engaged in, [check mark]
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Somerset Co., New Jersey.
Date of application for pension, Oct. 2 1832. His claim was allowed.
Residence at date of application, Hickory Tnp. Mercer Co. Penn. with son Isaac
Age at date of application, born Mch. 4, 1749 in New Jersey.
Remarks: In 1844 he removed to Brookfield, Trumbull Co. Ohio. to
live with his daughter Catharine wife of William Coon
name of his wife and date of his marriage not stated

Respectfully,
Commissioner.
6 -- 2856 Abraham Ten Eick was Lt. Col. Feby. 1776-
N. J. Book does not show any William Hazlett or an Allagar or Alleger

Page 16

Mercer County ss
On this 28th day day of Jany 1834 Personally 
appeared before A Brown a Judge of the Court in and
for Mercer County - Abraham D. Forrest of Hickory
Township Mercer County, an applicant for Pension, who
being duly sworn according to law doth depose and say
That on his first tour of Service mentioned in his declaration
under Capt Freelinhiser was not less than two month in actual
Service on the second of Service under Capt Allagers
Company he was not less than one month in actual service
again under Capt [crossed out] Tenicks he was not less than one month
in service again in Augt 1776 as state in declaration under Abraham
Tenick he was not less than one month in actual service.
His next Service in Nov 1776 in Capt David Schamps Company
he served orderly Sergeant, not less than one month
And when Licu Vansickle was wounded in December
1776 he D. Forrest was advanced to be Ensign and was
in Camp that winter of 76-77 not less than three months
at the North Branch of Rariton River in Somerset County,
New Jersey.  He then went home 2, or 3 days and then
returned, and lay five miles lower down on the Rariton,
and from the time he first joined Capt David Schamps
Company.  It was a Standing Company for Secret Service
directed to have their meetings and movements in general
as private as possible; in small parties; as well for the
purpose of watching the movements of the Tories as the
British to intercept them and communicate intelligence
to Genl Washington & until the year 1780 four years
moving from place to place; This service was rendered in
New Jersey, but owing to old age, loss of memory, length of
time, and the nature of their service, it is impossible to
give dates for their movements, But he firmly [crossed out] believes
that during the time he was Ensign he was in actual, active
Service, not less, but more than two years.

Sworn and Subscribed before me | 
this day above written | Abrm Deforest
A Brown
associate Judge

Page 17

State of Pennsylvania | 
Mercer County ss | I John Kech Prothonotary of the
Court of Common Pleas of Mercer County
do certify that Alexander Brown Esq
before whom the within deposition was taken
was at the time of the taking an associate
Judge of the aforesaid Court duly commissioned,
that full faith and credit is due to all
his legal acts as Such; and that in my opinion his signature
is genuine.  In witness whereof I have hereunto set my
hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Mercer the 29th
day of January 1834
John Kech Prothy

Page 18

State of Ohio, Trunbull County ss:
Be it known that before me a Justice of the peace in
and for the county aforesaid personally appeared Abraham DeForrest
and made oath in due form of law that he is the identical person
named in an original certificate which was in his possession
and which is now illegally withheld by his son Isaac DeForrest
of Hickory Township, Mercer County and state of Pennsylvania
for the same reason as this affiant believes of preventing the said affiant
from obtaining & using his pension in any other manner than
subject to the direction & control of said Isaac with which said son
this affiant formerly resided in said Hickory Township: that he, the
affiant now resides in the township of Brookfield, in the county of
Trumbull, in the state of Ohio, and has resided there for the space
of one year & upwards: that he is entitled to a pension of Twenty Dollars
per month, and to the sum of One Hundred and Twenty Dollars
due him, & in arrear on the Fourth day of September 1845, on account
of services rendered to the United States during the Revolutionary War, and
he thinks that he served in Captain Tenikes Company of New Jersey Militia:
That he has forgotten the name of the Regiment.  That he resided
in said Hickory Township previous to February 1844 since which time he has
resided in said Brookfield Township
1. Asa Waldorf | Witness
2 David Waldorf | 
Abraham [his X mark] DeForest
Sworn to and subscribed this 13th day of October 1845
before me.  David Waldorf [seal drawn] J.P.

Page 19

State of Ohio Trumbull County ss;
Before me at the same time personally
appeared William Coon & Katherine Coon
who made solemn oath that the within named
pensioner Abraham DeForest is now living
with them and is about ninety [crossed out] seven years old;
that by reason of old age he has become quite
forgetful & infirmed of mind & body;  That the
said Katherine is a daughter of the said Abraham
and that they have both been acquainted
with him for many years, & know him to
be the identical person he declares himself to be.
In presence of | William Coon
1. David Waldorf | Catherine Coon
2. Asa Waldorf | Sworn to and subscribed before
 | me this 13th day of October 1845
David Waldorf J.P. [seal drawn]
State of Ohio Trumbull County ss; October the 13th 1845
Conformably to the Regulations of the War
Department of the 27th of October 1832 I David Waldorf
a Magistrate in the County above named
do hereby certify that I have the most satisfactory
[illegible], viz, the testimony of the said William Coon
and Catherine Coon with whom I am well acquainted
and who sustain the expectation of undoubted veracity
and also my own personal acquaintance for many
years with the said Abraham, that Abraham  DeForest
who this day appeared before me to take the oath of identity
is the identical pensioner he declares himself to be in
the annexed affidavit, and I am also satisfied
that the statement made by him in relation to the pension
Certificate is true.  Given under my hand & seal at Brookfield
in said County this 13th day of October 1845
David Waldorf [seal drawn] J.P.

Page 20

State of Ohio Trumbull County ss;
Know all men by these presents that I Abraham
DeForest of the township of Brookfield, in said County, do
hereby constitute and appoint J.B. Trevor Esq of the city
of Philadelphia and State of Pennsylvania, my
true & lawful attorney for me and in my name to receive
from the agent of the United States for paying pension
at the City of Philadelphia in the State of Pennsylvania
my pension from the 4th day of March 1845 to the 4th
day of September 1845, being one Hundred and twenty
dollars.  Witness my hand and seal this 13th day
of October 1845.
Abraham [his X mark] DeForest [seal drawn]
Sealed and delivered in presence of
1. David Waldorf | 
2. Asa Waldorf | State of Ohio Trumbull County ss;
Be it Known that on the 13th day of October 1845 before
the subscriber a justice of the peace in & for said County
personally appeared Abraham DeForest above named
and acknowledged the foregoing power of attorney
to be his act and deed.  In testimony whereof
I have hereunto set my hand the day and year
last above mentioned.  David Waldorf J.P.
State of Ohio Trumbull County ss;
I Clayton Herrington, Clerk of the Court of Common
Pleas within aforesaid County of Trumbull do hereby certify
that on the 13th day of October, 1845.  David Waldorf
whose signature is above affixed was an acting
Justice of the peace within aforesaid County of Trumbull, duly elected
and qualified; and that full faith and credit is due
to his official acts, [illegible] in judicature and elsewhere.
Given under my hand and seal of office this 22nd day
of October 1845.   Clayton Herrington Clerk
by Warren Young Deputy

Page 21

State of Ohio Trumbull County ss:
Be it known that before me a
justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid
personally appeared Abraham DeForest and made
oath that he is the identical person named in
the original certificate which was in his possession
and now is illegally withheld from him by
Isaac DeForest, and whose name is also mentioned
in the affidavit of the withholding of said
certificate by the said Isaac, & subscribed to said
affidavit, now in the Pension office in the city
of Washington in the District of Columbia, of the United
States: that he now resides in the township of Brookfield
in the aforesaid County of Trumbull, and has resided
there ever since sometime in the month of February 1844
and for one year and about two months; and that
previous thereto he resided in the township of Hickory
in the County of Mercer, in the state of Pennsylvania
1 David Waldorf | 
2 William Coon | Witnesses
Abraham [his X mark] DeForest
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 28th day of April
1845.  David Waldorf J.P.
State of Ohio Trumbull County ss
In conforming to the regulations of the War department
of the 27th of October 1832.  I David Waldorf
a Justice of the peace magistrate in the County of said
Trumbull do hereby certify that I have the most satisfactory
evidence, viz, my own personal knowledge and
familiar acquaintance with him, that Abraham
DeForest, who this day appeared before me to take the
oath of identity is the identical pensioner he declares
himself to be in the annexed affidavit; and I
am also satisfied that the statement made by him

Page 22

in relation to the pension certificate is true.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto [crossed out]
and affixed my seal of office, and subscribed my
name this 28th day of April, 1845
David Waldorf J.P. [seal drawn]
State of Ohio Trumbull County ss:
Know all men by these presents that I 
Abraham DeForest of the township of Brookfield in the
County aforesaid, a pensioner of the United States
do hereby [illegible]; and appoint J.B. Trevor, Esq.
of Philadelphia, my true and lawful attorney for
same and in my name to receive from the agent
of the United States for paying pensions in the city of
said Philadelphia, in the County of Philadelphia, and
in the State of Pennsylvania my pension from
the fourth day of September 1844 unto the fourth day
of March 1845, in arrear, being one hundred and
twenty Dollars.  Witness my hand and seal
this 28th day of April, 1845.  Abraham [his X mark] DeForest [seal drawn]
1. David Waldorf | 
2. William Coon | Witnesses
State of Ohio Trumbull County ss:
Be it known that on the 28th day of April,
1845 before me the subscriber a justice of the peace
in and for said County personally appeared Abraham
DeForest above named and acknowledged
the foregoing power of attorney to be his act and
deed.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my
hand and seal the day, and year last above
written.  David Waldorf J.P. [seal drawn]

Page 23

State of Ohio Trumbull County, ss;
I Clayton Herrington, Clerk of the
Court of Common Pleas, within and for
said County of Trumbull, do hereby certify
that on the 28th day April 1845
David Waldorf was a Justice
of the Peace within and for said
County of Trumbull, duly elected
and Qualified.
Given under my hand and Seal
of office, this day of May 1845.
Clayton Herrington Clerk

Page 24

Abram Deforest
Pension papers

Page 25

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Be it known that before me Joel Miner a
Justice of the peace, in and for the County aforesaid
personally appeared Abram Deforest and
made oath in due form of Law that he is the identical
person named in an original pension
certificate: now illegally withheld by Isaac
Deforest of Mercer County, Pa. with whom he
formerly resided that he removed to Brookfield
Trumbull County, Ohio, in February 1844, to live with
his daughter, and with whom he now resides,
that said Isaac without any just cause withheld
and continues to withhold said certificate
though often requested to deliver up the same
that he is entitled to a pension of Twenty dollars
per month, on account of services rendered to
the United States during the Revolutionary War.
that he served in Captain Ten Ecks company
of New Jersey Militia. That he now resides
in Brookfield, Trumbull County and State of
Ohio, and has resided there for the space of
Two years past, and that previous thereto he
resided in Hickory Township, Mercer County.
Pa.
Abram [his X mark] Deforest
Sworn and subscribed this eleventh day of Sept
1846
Before me
Joel Miner
Justice of the peace

Page 26

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Be it known that before me Joel Miner a
Justice of the peace in and for said County
personally appeared William Coon. and Catharine
Coon wife of said William and the daughter of said
Abram Deforest who made oath in due form of
law, that they from personal knowledge, verily
believed that the facts set forth by said Abram
Deforest in his affidavit were true; that he
resides with them, and is in the ninety eighth
year of his age.
William Coon
Catharine Coon
Sworn to and subscribed before me this
eleventh day of Sept 1846
Joel Miner Justice of the Peace

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Joel Miner Justice of the peace
Sept, 11th 1846
Conformable to the Regulations of the war
Department of the 27th of October 1832. I
Joel Miner a magistrate in the County above
named do hereby certify that I have the
satisfactory evidence viz: the affidavits
of William & Catharine Coon, and personal
knowledge that Abram Deforest who this
day appeared before me to take the oath of
identity is the identical pensioner he declares
himself to be in the annexed affidavits.
and I am also satisfied that the statement
made by him in relation to the pension certificate
is true.
Given under my hand at
Brookfield the day and year above written
Jack Miner Justice of the Peace

Page 27

Know all persons by these presents, that 
I Abram DeForest of Brookfield. Trumbull
County, Ohio, a Pensioner of the United States
do hereby constitute and appoint J.B. Trevor
of Philadelphia, my true and lawful attorney
for me and in my name to receive from the
agent of the United States for paying pensions
in Philadelphia, State of Pennsylvania, my pension
from the 4th day of March 1846 to the 4th day
of September 1846.
Witness my hand and seal this eleventh day of Sept
1846
Sealed and delivered | Abram [his X mark] Deforest [seal drawn SS]
in presence of
Joel Miner
William Coon
State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Be it known that on the eleventh day of Sept
1846 before the subscriber a Justice of the peace
in and for said County personally appeared 
Abram Deforest above named, and acknowledged
toe foregoing power of attorney to be
his act and deed.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my hand the day and year last above
mentioned.
Joel Miner Justice of the peace
State of Ohio, Trumbull County ss;
I Warren Young Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas
within & for said County, do hereby certify that on the 7th day of
September 1846 Joel Miner Esq. was an acting Justice
of the Peace within & for said County of Trumbull
duly elected and qualified; and that 
full faith & Condit is due to his official acts.
Given under my hand & seal this 30th day of Sept 1846
Warren Young Clerk

Page 28

Abram FeForest
Pension Papers

Page 29

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County |  ss
Be it known that before me
James Bentley a Justice of the peace in and for the
County aforesaid, personally appeared Abram DeForest
and made oath in due form of Law, that he is
the identical person named in an original pension
certificate now illegally withheld by Isaac DeForest of
Mercer County Pa. with whom he formerly resided:
That he removed to Brookfield, Trumbull County,
Ohio in February 1844 to live with his daughter
and with whom he now resides; that said Isaac
without any Just cause withheld and still continues
to withhold said certificate though often requested
to deliver up the same.  That he is entitled to a
pension of Twenty dollars pr. month, on account
of services rendered to the United States during
the Revolutionary War: That he served in
Captain Ten Ecks company of New Jersey Militia.
That he now resides in Brookfield, Trumbull
County and State of Ohio, and has resided there
for the space  of Three years past, and that previous
thereto he resided in Hickory Township.
Mercer County. Pa.
A. B. Waldorf | Abram [his X mark] DeForest
James Bentley
Sworn to and subscribed this fifteenth day of
March A.D. 1847
Before me James Bentley
Justice of the peace
The above word "cause" was interlined before being subscribed
by said affidavit
James Bentley Justice of the peace

Page 30

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County ss | 
Be it known that before
me James Bently a Justice of the peace in
and for said County personally appeared 
Catherine Coon daughter of said Abram DeForest
and William Coon, husband of said Catherine
Coon, who made oath in due form of law that
they from personal knowledge verily believed that
the facts set forth by said Abram DeForest in
the preceding affidavit were true, that he resides
with them, and is ninety eight years old.
William Coon
Catherine Coon
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 15th day of
March AD 1847
James Bentley
Justice of the peace

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Brookfield March 15th 1847
Conformably to the regulations of the war department
of the 27th of October 1832, I James Bently a Magistrate
in the County above named, do hereby certify that
I have the most satisfactory evidence, viz; the
affidavits of William and Catherine Coon, and
personal knowledge, that Abram DeForest who this
day appeared before me to take the oath of identity
is the identical pensioner he declares himself to
be in the annexed affidavit, and I am also
satisfied that the statement made by him in
relation to the pension certificate is true.
Given under my hand the day and year above
written.
James Bentley

Page 31

Know all men by these presents, that, I Abram
DeForest, of Brookfield, Trumbull County, Ohio, a
pensioner of the United States do hereby constitute
and appoint J.B. Trevor of Philadelphia my
true and lawful attorney, for me, and in my
name to receive from the agent of the United States
for paying pensions in Philadelphia, State of
Pennsylvania my pension from the 4th day
of Sept AD 1846 to the 4th day of March AD 1841.
Witness my hand and seal this Fifteenth day
of March AD 1847.
Sealed and delivered
in presence of | Abram [his X mark] DeForest [Seal drawn]
A.B. Waldorf
James Bentley

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Be it known that on the
Fifteenth day of March AD 1847 before the subscriber
a Justice of the peace in and for said County personally
appeared Abram DeForest above named and acknowledged
the foregoing power of attorney to be his
free act and deed.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my hand the day and year above mentioned
James Bentley
Justice of the peace

Page 32

State of Ohio | I Warren Young Clerk of
Trumbull County ss | of the Court of Common
pleas of said County do hereby
Certify that the within named James
Bentley was an acting Justice of
the peace within and for said
County of Trumbull upon this
fifteenth day of March 1847, duly commissioned
and empowered to act as such justice within
and for said County, & that full faith and [illegible]
ought to be given to his official acts as
such justice in particular and elsewhere.
The witness whereof I do hereunto set my
hand & affix the seal of said Court at
Warren in said County this 25th day of March 1847.
Warren Young Clerk

Page 33

Rev. War Section.
June 29,1914.
Mrs. D. F. Randle.
2243 C street,
Granite city, Illinois.
Madam:
In response to your letter dated the 22nd instant.
you are advised that in the papers in the claim of Abranam 
Deforest. sur. File No. 5331, Rev. War. there is no
reference whatever to his marriage or to his wife.
very respectfully,
G. M. Saltzgaber
Commissioner.

Page 34

Rev. War Section.
March 30, 1914.
Mrs. Delia F. Randle.
2243 C street.
Granite City, Ill.
Madam:-
In response to your letter dated the seventeenth instant, 
relative to Abraham Deforest sur. File 5331 Rev. War.
you are advised that the Bureau record bears the endorsement
"died December 11. 1847".
For the date of last payment of his pension, and name
of the person to whom it was paid, application should be made
to the Auditor for the Interior Department. U. S. Treasury
Department, giving him all of the following data:
"Abraham De Forest. certificate #29020. issued February
25, 1834. for $240. per annum from March 4, 1831. under the A
Act of June 7, 1832. at the Pennsylvania Agency."
Very respectfully,
G M Saltzgaber
Commissioner.

Page 35

I.F.H.E. Revo
[Daughters of the American Revolution LOGO]
Box 364
Sharon, Pa
[round stamp U.S. Pension Office MAR 8 1921]
Pension Office
Washington, D.C.
Gentlemen:
Some time ago I
wrote asking for copy
of pension claims of
Abraham DeForest.
I received no reply.
Now I know this
claim is on file and 
its number - Affidavit
for pension (Invalid No.

Page 36

5331) taken in Trumbull
County, Ohio 1845.
Kindly send me
certified copy of same
& advise me how I
may secure same.
Yours truly,
Mrs M.L. Mitcheltree

Page 37

[check mark] 2 ct - postage stampp enclosed
EB
[Daughters of the American Revolution LOGO] Rev CSW Box 364
Sharon, Pa,
Feb 11, 1921
U.S. Commissioner of Pensions
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir
Will you please send me
a certified copyy of the pension record
of Abraham DeForest who
was born March 4 or 5th 1749
and Died Dec 11 or 18th 1847
and whose wife was Margaret
Vandenberg.
We understand that he
drew a pension of thirty ($30.00)
dollars per month, and when
over ninety years of age walked 
a distance of thirteen miles to obtain
this government stipend.  He living at

Page 38

that time near Brookfield, Ohio
and the pension being sent to
Warren, Ohio, as our record in 
family tells us.
Before migrating to Pennsylvania
and Ohio this man
Abraham DeForeest or
DeForest lived in Hunterdon
or Somerset County, New Jersey.
He moved to Ohio or Pa. in
1820 or thereabout.
My desire is the
marriage of this Abraham
DeForeest and Margaret
Vandenburgh born Feb 20, 1755
and died 1831, if you have
the record; my other wish is the certified copy of pension of
Abraham DeForeest
Thanking you for same

Page 39

I am
Very Truly yours,
Mrs. M. Leroy Mitchellrie
Registrar Pymatuming Chapter
D.A.R. Sharon, Pa
[oval stamp RECORD DIVISION FEB 12 1921]
[round stamp US PENSION OFFICE FEB 11 1921]

Page 40

Mar 17th 1914
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:
Will you kindly
examine the records of pensioners
of the Revolutionary War and
find for me if possible the
date of death of Abraham
DeForest who died in Trumbull
County Ohio.  He was still living in 1845 with his
daughter Mrs Wm Coon
Thanking you in advance
I am very truly yours
Mrs. Delia F. Randle
2243 C St.
Granite City, Ill

Page 41

[round stamp US Pension Office D JUN 25 1914]
June 22nd, 1914
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:
Am sorry to trouble you
a second time, but if you can
give me the following information
from the Rev record of Abraham
DeForest I shall be very glad
indeed.  Where and when he
was married and the dates
of the birth and the death of
his wife Margaret Vandenburg.
Thanking you in advance
I am respectfully yours,
Mrs D.F. Randle
2243 C St
Granite City, Ill

Page 42

Rev
Sept 23rd 1908
U.S. Pension Bureau
Washington, DC
Dear Sirs:
Will you please
examine your records of
Revolutionary War pensioners
for the name of Abraham DeForest
and give me what
the record contains?
The Adj't Gen. of N.J.
furnished me his military
record - saying he was 
still living in 1845 in
Trumbull Co. Ohio
Thanking you in advance
Very Truly yours
(Mrs.) Delia F. Randle
2243 C St
Granite City Ill.
[round stamp US Pension Office SEP 25 1908]

Page 43

[letterhead Home Insurance Company of New York]
Warren Ohio
Nov 18 1902
Hon H. Clay Evans
Dear Sir,
Captain Abraham DeForest a
Revolutionary soldier died in Brookfield
Trumbull County, Ohio on Dec 11, 18474
aged 99 years.  He was on the pension 
roll and drew twenty dollars each
month for many years.  Amounting in 
all to over seven thousand dollars, ($7000.00)
He came in the early part of the last
century from New Jersey to Ohio, and 
probably belonged to a regiment from
[crossed out] New Jersey.  I desire to have a certificate
from your department showing that he
was a Revolutionary soldier, also the 
name of the regiment and also showing
what office and rank he held in the
Army.  Will you kindlygive me this
information and 
greatly oblige yours
Whittlesey Adams
Warren, Ohio

Page 44

Kansas City Feby 28
Keon Commr Pensions
Washington
Dear Sir D
Please favor
me with the Revolutionary
record of service of Abraham
DeForest of New Jersey
that I may make good
my claim to membership
in the Society Sons of the
Revolution - and [illegible]
Oblige  J.L. Harrihan
Armour Packing Co

Page 45

Kansas City MO - 2-8-97
Sons of the American Revolution
K.C. Chapter
Keon D. J. Murphy
Commr Pensions
Washington
Dear Sir,
Kindly send me
Certificate of the
Revolutionary Service
of Abraham DeForest
of N.J. if same
appears on the
records of your office
for application of
L.J. Buchanan
Very Respectfully
DS Harrihan Prist
5331-S
P

Page 46

5331
INVALID
No. 5331
Abraham DeForest
Ensign Rev War
Act: June 7th "32
Vol. M, Page 92
Mch 23 1897 History
Mr. L.J. Buchanan
D.S.Harriman
Kansas City MO.
Apr 7 1897 History to
Mr J.L. Harriman
c/o Armour Packing
Kansis City MO
Dec 1 1992
Whitting Adams
1908 Oct 5 Hist to Mrs Delia
F. Randle 
1914 Mch 30 Mrs Randle given
date of death fr agency book &
[illegible] to auditor for last
payment etc.
1914 June 29 Mrs Randle also
no info relation to wife or [illegible]
1931 Mar 17 Hist to Mrs.
M.L. Mitchelltree aw

Page 47

Warren O. June 13th 1844
Sir
We herewith transmit duplicate affidavits
as instructed by your letter of 20th [illegible] to
M Giddings in this case of Abraham DeForest
We have been unable to obtain
from the old gentleman any now
particularity [illegible] contained in
the affidavits owing to the infirmity
of his mind from extreme age.
Mr DeForest has out lived his [illegible]
vouchers, and his writings & papers tending
to show the facts relating to his claims are
all withheld with the certificate.  We are
informed by [illegible] who have known him
for some 50 years that they have always
understood that he did service throughout
the Revolutionary War; having enrolled
himself as a minute man was for some 
time subject to only irregular services.  He
is reputed to have terms in several [illegible]
skirmishes; at one time one of [illegible] who surprised
& took prisoner 17 of the enemy & c
But one thing we know, that he has for 
a length of time been a pensioner, and
also that he is now in extreme need
of his pension for his comfort and support; his former

Page 48

receipts being either exhausted, or withheld
by the son who now withholds his certificate
and papers.  Please inform us of the 
receipt of the enclosed & whether the
 same are sufficient to enable him
to process the pension ; & if so the
further [illegible] if any
Very Respectfully
Your Most Obdt
M. CG Sutliff
Hon J.L. Edwards
Washington

Page 49

[round stamp WARREN JUN 14 O.]
June 18 1844
FREE
Mr Evans
Hon J.L. Edwards Comr of Kensinua
Pension Office Washington City
D.C.

Page 50

Warren O. June 13th 1844
Sir
We herewith transmit duplicate affidavits
as instructed by your letter of 20th [illegible] to
M Giddings in this case of Abraham DeForest
We have been unable to obtain
from the old gentleman any now
particularity [illegible] contained in
the affidavits owing to the infirmity
of his mind [illegible]
Mr DeForest [illegible] out [illegible] his [illegible]
vouchers, and his writings & papers tending
to show the facts relating to his claims are
all withheld with the certificate.  We are
informed by [illegible] who have known him
for some 50 years that they have always
understood that he did servicethroughout
the Revolutionary War; having enrolled
himself as a [illegible] was for some 
time subject to only irregular services.  He
is reputed to have terms in several [illegible]
skirmishes; at one time one of [illegible] who [illegible]
& took prisoner of the enemy 
But one thing we know, that he has for 
a length of time been a pensioner, and
also that he is now in extreme need
of his pension for his comfort and support; his former

Page 51

receipts being either exhausted, or withheld
by the son who now withholds his certificate
and papers.  Please inform us of the
receipt of the enclosed [illegible] the
[illegible] are sufficient to enable him
to process the pension; [illegible] the
[illegible]
Very Respectfully
Your Most Obdt
M CG Sutliff
Hon J.L. Edwards
Washington

Page 52

Saml F Smith
Pension Agent
[illegible] Bank
Octob 23 / 44
[scroll drawn]
with Vouchers of Abraham
Deforest
[scroll drawn]

Page 53

Pension Agency
Philadelphia Bank
October 23 1844
Sir
Am I authorized in paying the
amount due to Abraham Deforest on the Enclosed
Vouchers.  His pension Certificate being illegally withheld
from him.
Respectfully
yrobs
Saml F Smith
Pension Agent
Chas W Bacon
JL Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington

Page 54

Saml F Smith
Pension Agent
Philadelphia Bank
March 31, 1845
[scroll drawn]
[illegible] Vouchers Abraham Deforest
[scroll drawn]

Page 55

Pension Agency
Philadelphia Bank
March 31 1845
Sir
Am I warrented in paying the
Pension of Abraham Deforrest on the Enclosed Voucher
this pension Certificate being illegally withheld from him
the amount of his pension not being mentioned
Respectfully
[illegible]
Samuel F Smith
Pension Agent
[illegible] Chas W Bacon
J L Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington

Page 56

[Round stamp WARREN JUN 29 O.]
July [illegible]
Mr Evans
Abrm DeForrest
FREE
Hon J.L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D.C.

Page 57

Warren O. June 28th 1866
Sir
Your favor of the 21st inst came to
hand on the 26th informing us that you have
instructed the pension agent at Philadelphia
to pay the amount [illegible] Abraham DeForest,
& c.  We suppose there could be a 
mistake in the place as Pittsburg is the
place where pensions in this vicinity
are usually received.  Will you Sir
have the goodness to inform us in
this particular
We Remain Sir
Very Respectfully
Your Most Bbdt
M C.G. Sutliff
Hon J.L. Edwards
Washington

Page 58

May 10 47
[round stamp WARREN 5 O]
John L Edwards Esq
Com. of Pensions
Washington
D.C.
[seal affixed]
Abm Deforest
Ohio
[illegible] withheld
[illegible] is Mr Evans

Page 59

Warren O. May 5 1847
Jno L Edwards Esq
Dr Sir
We forwarded the pension
papers of Abram DeForest of Brookfield
to your department Mar 25th for
the March installment of the old gentlemans
pension; Since which we have rec'd
no information respecting it.
We therefore take the liberty of again writing
you upon the subject.
Very Respectfully
Your Mst Obdt
M C.G. Sutliff

Page 60

Sept 20 47
[round stamp WARREN [illegible]]
Mr Evans
J. [illegible] L. Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D.C.

Page 61

Warren O. Sept 16 1847
Dr Sir
Enclosed we forward the papers
for drawing [illegible] DeForest's last installment of
his pension.  We hope the papers may be
found correctly [illegible]; & that Mr Trevor
will forward a Certificate of the amount
upon receipt of his duplicate.
We remain Sir
Very Respectfully
Your Most Obdt. [illegible]
M C.G. Sutliff
[illegible] L. Edwards Esq
Washington

Page 62

Mar 31 47
[round stamp WARREN MAR 36 O]
M Evans
20
J. L. Edwards Esq
Pension Office
Washington
D.C.

Page 63

Warren O. March 25 1847
Jno L. Edwards Esq
Dr Sir
Enclosed we forward 
the duplicate papers for A DeForest pension
He requests Mr Trevor to forward a Certificate
of Deposit; [illegible] are found to be correct
We remain Sir,
Very Respectfully 
Your Most Obdt.
M C.G. Sutliff

Page 64

Del 5 46
[round stamp WARREN SEP 30 O]
[illegible]
J. L. Edwards Esq
Com of Pensions
Washington
D.C.

Page 65

J.L. Edwards Esq
Com of Pensions D.C.
Dr Sir
Enclosed
are forwarded the papers of Abraham
DeForest for the installment of Sept.
[illegible] - If the papers are accepted
we wish Mr Trevor the agent to
forward us a Certificate of Deposit
for the amount of the pension.
Very Respectfully
Your Most Obediant
M C.G. Sutliff
Warren O. Sept 30th 1846

Page 66

abe 20 46
Mr Evens [round stamp WARREN APR 16 O] | 20
J.L. Edwards, Esq
Com of Pensions
Washington
D.C.

Page 67

Warren, Ohio April 14 1846
Dr Sir,
Enclosed we forward you
the pension papers of Abraham
DeForest which we hope may be
satisfactory.
Mr. Trevor the agent will please 
forward to us a Certificate of
Deposit for the amount; which
can be readily negotiated at the
Bank in this place.
We remain Sir
Very Respectfully
Your Most Ob
M [illegible]
per M. Sutliff
J.L. Edwards, Esq.

Page 68

May 9 1845
[round stamp WARREN MAY 5 O.] | FREE
Mr Evan
J.L. Edwards, Esq.
Pension Com.
Washington
D.C.

Page 69

Warren O. May 5th 1845
Dr Sir
Enclosed we forward duplicate
powers of atty. from Mr DeForest of this [illegible]
for drawing the last installment of his pension.
The Vouchers & proofs were forwarded
to the department at Washington last winter to which
reference is made in the papers here with transmitted.
The Cashier of the Bank of Pha, J B Trevor
Esq, you will [illegible] is the agent who will
draw the money & transmit it by Certificate
of Deposit.  Very Respectfully
We remain Sir
Your Most Obdt. [illegible]
M C.G. Sutliff
P.S. Please acknowledge
the [illegible] of the enclosed and
Much oblige
[illegible]
M C.G. Sutliff

Page 70

Oct 09 1848
[round stamp WARREN OCT 29] 
[illegible]
new certificate
M Evans
J.L. Edwards, Esq.
Pension Agent Washington City
D.C.

Page 71

J.L. Edwards Esq
Dear Sir, Enclosed we forward
you the pension papers for
the last installment of A DeForests
pension, which we hope may prove
satisfactory [illegible]
Very Respectfully
Your Most Obedient
M. CG Sutliff
If the papers [illegible]
please forward to the agent at [illegible]
M Trevor to send us a certificate | [illegible]
of deposit [illegible] |

Page 72

[postal stamp] ARR NOV 22 [rest illegible] FREE
J.L. Edwards Esq.
Comm. of Pensions
Washington D.C.
[written sideways ] NW W [illegible] March Abrm DeForest Pank [?]

Page 73

[illegible] A. Nov 19th 1844
Dear Sir
In your letter of May 20th to us in regard
to obtaining the pension of Abraham DeForest formerly
of Hickory Township Mercer Co. Pa. whose certificate
is withheld by one of his sons from him.  You 
informed us that it would be necessary for him
to make Duplicate affidavits (according to our
enclosed form) and forward them to the Pension
Office at Washington.  He complied with your
instructions shortly after which we [illegible] yours of
June 21st as follows
"I have this day instructed the Pension Agent
at Philadelphia to pay the amount due Abraham
DeForest, a pensioner under the act of the 7th Junw
1832.  Whose pension certificate has been illegally
withheld - The vouchers are here with returned."
We forwarded the vouchers returned to us by
Mr Salmon Hart, who was duly constituted & appointed
the agent & atty. of Mr DeForest to draw the money at Pha.
But Mr CW Bacon pension clerk now writes us that
"Tis necessary to have duplicate papers made when 
a pension certificate is illegally withheld from a pensioner,
& both transmitted to JL Edwards Esq Commissioner
of Pensions at Washington for approval; the [illegible] to
be transmitted by the pensioner or his attorney - [illegible]
(over)

Page 74

come at one of the [illegible] will be [illegible] to the person who
sent it, and instructions given to the pension agent
[illegible]
Is it necessary to forward duplicates again
to Washington.
By favoring us with an early answer
Sir, you will much oblige us as we have the opportunity
of [illegible]
Very Respectfully
Your most obediant
M.C.G. Sutliff
Hon Jn L Edwards | 
Washington |

Page 75

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Be it known that before me David Waldorf
a Justice in and for the county aforesaid
personally appeared Abraham Deforest and
made oaths in due form of law that he is
the identical Abraham Deforest named
in an original pension certificate now
illegally withheld by Isaac Deforest of Hickory
Township Mercer County Pa. with whom he
[he repeated] formally resided, and that he now resides
in Ohio with one of his sons in law, and that
the said Isaac Deforest neglects, and refuses
to release him the said pension certificate.  That he
is entitled to a pension of twenty dollars per
month on account of services rendered
to the United States during the Revolutionary
War; That he thinks he served in Captain
Ten Ecks company of New Jersey militia and
that he has forgotten the regiment; that
he now resides in Brookfield, Trumbull
county Ohio and has resided there for the
space of about four months past; and that
previous thereto he resided in Hickory
Township Mercer county, Pa. [illegible]
Sworn and subscribed this
13th day of June 1844
before me David Waldorf J.P. [seal impressed]

Page 76

The State of Ohio Trumbull county ss
Before me personally appeared William Coon
and Katharine Coon who made solemn oath
that the within named pensioner Abraham
Deforest now lives with them is now about
ninety five years old as they verily believe and
that through infirmity - and old age has
become quite imbecile and forgetful - which
account for his forgetting the regiment.  William Coon
Katharine X Coon
Sworn and Subscribed before me this 13th day
of June 1844
David Waldorf J.P.
State of Ohio Trumbull County ss
I Clayton Herrington Clerk protem
of the Court of Common Pleas of said County
of Trumbull & State of Ohio, do hereby certify
that the said David Waldorf is an acting
justice of the peace in & for said County
duly qualified & commissioned to act as
such justice; and that to all his official
acts full faith and credit are, and
ought to be given throughout said
State and elsewhere.
Given under my hand
and seal of said Court as
Warren in said County this
13th day of June 1844
Clayton Herrington Clk

Page 77

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
June 13th 1842
Conformably to the regulations of the War
Department of the 27th of October 1832
I David Waldorf a Magistrate in the
County above named do hereby certify
that I have the most satisfactory Evidence viz;
by the affidavits William Coon and
Katherine Coon that Abraham Deforest who
this day appeared before me to take the oath
of identity is the identical Pensioner he declares
himself to be in the annexed affidavit, and
I am also satisfied that the statement made
by him in relation to the pension certificate
is true.
Given under my hand at Brookfield the day
and year above written
David Waldorf J.P.

Page 78

The undernamed being for some length of
time been acquainted with Mr Abraham Deforest
the present incumbant to be placed on the
pension list and now going on the Eighty
fifth year of his age have no hesitation
in saying that we believe him to be a very
worthy & Honorable applicant and one who
for Truth Honesty [crossed out] veracity & uprightness
there can nothing be said to his charge &
one who is Much Esteemed and beloved
by all who have the pleasure of an acquaintance
with Mercer County and State of Pennsylvania
February 1834.
Henry Frazier
Jas Satterfield
Nathaniel Harriott
John Rankin
Samuel Quinby
[crossed out]
 Mercer County State of Pennsylvania
I do hereby certify that the Rev Jas Satterfield
Reverend Henry Frazier Nathaniel Harriott John
Rankin & Samuel Quinby are all one of repute
and Respectability witness my hand and Seal of
office this 27th day of January 1834
Wm Budd

Page 79

Abraham DeForest
pension papers

Page 80

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Be it known that before me, Joel
Miner a Justice of the peace in and for the county
aforesaid, personally appeared Abraham DeForest and
made oath in due form of law, that he is the identical
Abraham Deforest named in an original pension
certificate now illegally withheld by Isaac Deforest
of Mercer County Pa with whom said pensioner
formerly resided.  That sometime in February 1844
he came to Brookfield County and state aforesaid
to reside with his daughter and with whom he
has ever since resided.  And that the said 
Isaac DeForest without any good, or lawful cause
detained and still detains the said pension
certificate, though requested to deliver up the same.
That he is entitled to a pension of Twenty
dollars per month on account of services rendered to the
United States during the Revolutionary War.

That the service in Captain Tenecks company
of New Jersey Militia; That he now resides in
Brookfield Trumbull County Ohio, and has
resided there for the space of Two years past
and that previous thereto he resided in
Hickory Township Mercer county, Pa.
Joel Miner | Abraham [his X mark] Deforest
Asa Waldorf
Groom and subscribed this 14th day of March
1846.  Before me
Joel Miner Justice of the peace
I certify that [illegible] rendered was [illegible]
before Signed.  Joel Miner J.P.

Page 81

We William Coon & Catherine Coon wife
of said William do make oath that we are 
personally acquainted with the within named
Abraham Deforest and that the facts stated by
him are true and the said Abraham is the
father of the said Catherine Coon with whom
he now resides and is about ninety seven
years old.
William Coon
Catherine Coon
Joel Miner
Asa Waldorf
Sworn to and subscribed this 14th day of March
1846.   Before me
Joel Miner Justice of the peace
State of Ohio | ss
Trumbull County | 
Conformably to the Regulations of the War Department
of the 27th of October 1832.  I Joel Miner a
magistrate in the County above named do hereby
certify that I have the most satisfactory evidence
viz. the affidavits of the above officiants and
personal knowledge that Abraham DeForest
who this day appeared before me to take the oath of
identity is the identical Pensioner he declares himself
to be in the annexed affidavit.  And I am also
satisfied that the statement made by him in relation
to the pension certificate is true.
Given under my hand at Brookfield
this 14th day of March 1846
Joel Miner Justice of the peace

Page 82

Know all men by these presents.  That 
I Abraham DeForest of Brookfield, Trumbull
County Ohio a pensioner of the United States
do hereby constitute and appoint J.B.
Trevor Esq. my true and lawful attorney for
me and in my name, to receive from the agent
of the United States for paying pensions in
Philadelphia, State of Pennsylvania any pension
from the 4th day of Sept 1845 to the 4th day
of March 1846.  Witness my hand and seal this
14th day of March 1846
Sealed and delivered in | Abraham [his x mark] Deforest [initials LS]
presence of | 
Joel Miner | 
Asa Waldorf | 
State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County | ss
Be it known that on the 14th day of March
1846 before the subscriber a Justice of the peace in
and for the county aforesaid personally appeared
Abraham Deforest above named and acknowledged
the foregoing power of attorney to be his full act
and deed.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my hand the day and year last above mentioned
Joel Miner Just of the peace

Page 83

State of Ohio, Trumbull County ss;
I Warren Young Clerk of the Court
of Common Pleas, within and for
said County of Trumbull do hereby
certify that on the 14th day of March 1846
the within named Joel Miner was a Justice
of the Peace within and for the
said County of Trumbull duly elected &
qualified, and that full faith and
[illegible] id due to his official acts
as such justices in [illegible] and
elsewhere.
Given under my hand
and seal of office, this 14th day of April
1846.  Warren Young Clerk

Page 84

State of Ohio; Trumbull County ss; | 
Be it known
that before me David Waldorf a justice of the
peace in and for the County aforesaid
personally appeared Abraham DeForest
and under oath in [illegible] that he
is the identical Abraham DeForest named in an
original pension Certificate now illegally withheld
by Isaac DeForest his son, who resides in Hickory Township
in the County of Mercer & State of Pennsylvania; that the
only reason within his knowledge of the said Isaac's
withholding obtaining Said original Certificate is
a desire entertained by him the said Isaac to
have him the said Abraham reside in the family
of him the said Isaac & permit him the said
Isaac to have the pension money of him the said
Abraham when drawn & accept his maintenance
from him the said Isaac which he the said Abraham was
& is unwilling to do, finding it now pleasant for himself
to reside with his daughter Mrs Coon of Brookfield, Ohio
where he now resides - and so the said Isaac continues to
withold said original Certificate.  And the said Abraham
DeForest upon his Said oath further states that he is entitled
to a pension of twenty dollars per month on account
of Services rendered to the United States during
the Revolutionary War, and that he is entitled to
the sum of Two Hundred and forty dollars pension
money due him & in arrear on the forth day of September
1844.  That he believes that he Served in a Captain
Teneckes Company of New Jersey Militia;  That he has 
forgotten the Regiment;  that he is about ninety
five years old;  that he now resides in the family of his
Son in law William Coon, in the State of Ohio;  and has
resided there since some time in the spring of 1844;  and
(over)

Page 85

that previous [illegible] he resided with his sons
Isaac DeForest in Hickory township in Mercer County
in the State of Pennsylvania | Abraham [his x mark] DeForest
Sworn to and Subscribed | 
before me this 27th day of December 1844 | 
David Waldorf J.P. | 
State of Ohio, Trumbull County | ss
Before me David Waldorf a Justice of the Peace
in and for the said County, personally came William
Coon, Katherine Coon wife of the said William of the
township of Brookfield in said County, who being
by me duly Sworn do respectfully depose and say
that the within & forenamed pensioner Abraham
DeForest is now residing with them, & has resided with
them since in the spring of 1844; that the said Abraham
is about ninety five years of age; that he is the indicated
person & pensioner that he has declared himself
to be in the annexed foregoing affidavit by him
[illegible] that by infirmity & old age he has become
very forgetful and feeble in body of mind.
Sworn to and Subscribed | William Coon
before me this 27th day of December 1844 | Catherine Coon [her x mark]
David Waldorf Justice of the Peace | 
State of Ohio Trumbull County ss | 
Conformably to the Regulations of the War Department
of the 27th of October 1832.  I David Waldorf a Magistrate
in the County above named, do hereby certify
that I have the most Satisfactory Evidence towit
my own personal knowledge and also the affidavits
of the said William Coon & Katherine Coon
above set forth, whom I know to be persons of respectible
integrity & who did before me testify to their identity of said
pensioner and I am also Satisfied that the Statement
made by him in relation to the pension Certificate is true.
Given under my hand and seal of said Trumbull County
this day of December 1844. David Waldorf [seal marked] Justice of the Peace

Page 86

State of Ohio | 
Trumbull County ss | I Clayton Herrington Clerk of
the Court of Common Pleas of said Trumbull County
certify that the said David Waldorf is a acting Justice
of the Peace in and for said County and that all of his
certificates and signatures [illegible] purporting
[illegible] his upon this sheet are true and genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed [illegible]
seal of office; and subscribed my name, this 4th
day of January AD 1845 C Herrington Clerk of
the Court of Com. Pleas of said County
Know all men by these presents; that I Abraham
DeForest of Brookfield, Trumbull County, and State
of Ohio, a Revolutionary pensioner of the United States
do hereby constitute and appoint J.B. Trevor, Esq (the
Cashier of Ph a Bank) my lawful attorney, for me and
in my name, to receive from the agent of the
United States for paying pensions at Philadelphia
in the State of Pennsylvania my pension from
the fourth day of September 1843 to the fourth
day of September 1844.  Witness my hand and
Seal this 27th day of December 1844.
Signed Sealed & delivered in presence of | Abraham (his x mark) DeForest [seal drawn]
1. David Waldorf
2. M Sutliff
State of Ohio, Trumbull County; | ss
Be it known that on this 27th day of December
1844 before the subscriber a justice of the Peace in
and for said County, personally appeared Abraham
DeForest above named, and acknowledged
the foregoing power of attorney to be his act and
deed.  In testimony whereof I have hereunto set
my hand the day and year last above mentioned.
David Waldorf [seal drawn] Justice
of the Peace

Page 87

Hon John Banks
Ho of Rep

Page 88

4
Mercer County ss
On this 16th day of July 1833 Personally appeared in
open Court - Abraham DeForrest who being
duly Sworn did depose and say that by reason of old age and the
consequent loss of memory he cannot Swear positively as to the precise
length of his service.  But according to the best of his recollection
not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following
grades; Viz as a private one month - as a non commissioned
officer seven months being not less than eight months
and as an Ensign he served not less than two years and four
months.  And claims Pension as an Ensign, being more than
two years as an Ensign in the Service.
When he was appointed Ensign it was in the Jersey State Service,
and it appears in proof by Capt David Schamp, that
it was done by the authority of Gen'l Washington.  And
he believes when appointed Ensign there no Governor
in the State of New Jersey.  Abraham Deforest
Sworn and Subscribed in open court
John Keck Pro.
State of Pennsylvania | 
Mercer County ss | I John Keck, Prothonotary of the Court of
[seal affixed] | Common Pleas of the County of Mercer, was taken
to certify that the above deposition was taken in
open court.  In Witness whereof I have
hereunto set my hand and affixed the
Seal of the said Court at Mercer the 16th day
of July A.D. 1833
John Keck Pro
In the above deposition A Deforrest proves that he was not less
than two years and four months in the service an Ensign.  In that he
is corroborated by his Capt near the close of his Deposition David Schamp, who is now on the
Pension list for a full pension, and for the very Service which he
proves Deforrest was with him. (as I am informed) Capt Schamp
is in the State of New Jersey and your record in the Department
will show if he is on the list.  I Respectfully yours
A Brown
[illegible] Judge

Page 89

Abraham DeForest, [illegible]
Act of June 1832.  $240.-
To What time last paid?
Pension Office | [illegible] 4 Sep 1842
June 18 1844 | [illegible]

Page 90

5.
State of New Jersey Hunterdon County ss.
David Schamp of the township of Readingtown
in the County of Hunterdon
and state of New Jersey being duly sworn
[crossed out] in open court before John [crossed out] Barton Esquire one of the
Judges of the court of common pleas of the
County of Hunterdon aforesaid [crossed out]
according to law, on his oath saith
that he is well acquainted with Abraham
DeForest formerly of the same place but now
& for some years past residing in Hickory Township
Mercer County Pennsylvania.  That he knows
that the said Abraham DeForest was in the
service of the United States as one of the militia of
New Jersey in the Revolutionary War.  And as 
one of the militia took an active part during
the whole of the war.  In 1775 Deforest
was a Lieutenant in Captain Benjamin [illegible]
company of militia belonging to the
Readingtown Battalion in Col John Mehiem
Regiment [crossed out] when the first call was made on
the militia to go out in the service of the states
in 1775.  Deforest Volunteered as Lieutenant
and Captain William Hazlett of the Lebanon
Battalion as Captain & a different number
of privates volunteered to fill the company.
Another company also Volunteered under Captain
Thomas Johnes of the Lebanon Battalion
the said Abraham DeForest was one of the
Volunteers who then turned out & joined Captain
Hazlett's company to which I belonged he
marched with us down to Amboy.  I don't
recollect the Col who commanded the Regiment
of Militia to which we were attached.
We were under General Dickenson who
commanded the Brigade of West Jersey.

Page 91

Militia General Nathaniel Heard commanded
the East Jersey Militia, from Amboy.
We crossed over on to Staten Island, which
was then considered part of New Jersey.
We remained there til our tour of one month
was out.  Said Deforest remained & served 
out the tour until discharged, One month.
In 1776 there was a call for one company
out of each Regiment of Militia
to serve for five months service, or "flying camp".
Our Regiment of Militia was called together
to turn out their quota.  David Frazer Volunteered
as Captain.  I did as Lieutenant and
John Toms as Ensign & a sufficient number
of men to make up the company & we 
went out in the Regiment under Col Philip
Johnson who was killed at the Battle of
[illegible] 
DeForest was out in the militia service
under other officers but I cannot recollect
particulars.  After the defeat on Long Island
General Washington wanted [crossed out] several company's of
volunteers to be raised in this part of New Jersey composed
of men here to the cause & acquainted
with the Country to patrol the country watch
the motions of the British & Tories, & communicate
to him privately from time to time all the information
they could obtain.  The request was communicated
to me, and I undertook to raise
such a company.  General Washington
Authorized me to do so.  Gave me the rank of [crossed out] a Captain
[crossed out] with authority to raise the company
and appoint my [illegible] offices & instructions as to the duty he wished
[note in margin]
our organization and duties, [illegible] to avoid
the tories getting information [illegible] That we
might the battle gain information [illegible] plans and
[illegible] them & give [illegible] General Washington

Page 92

us to perform.  I raised the company by volunteers
from the militia of the neighborhood.
William Vansyckle was appointed by me Lieutenant
& Jacob Emmans Ensign.  The said Abraham
Deforest joined the company as a volunteer &
I appointed him Orderly Sergeant.  The company
consisted of 100 men [footnote 0] Captain Peter Low raised
another Company of the same kind in Bridgewater
Somerset County - some time afterwards.
In the Winter 1777 when Washington lay at
Basking Ridge & the British in New Brunswick
Captain Lows company & mine were ordered
to join Col Morgans Regiment of Riflemen.
They lay on the mountain back of bound 
brook between Washington & the British
lines.  We were attached to the Battalion
under Major Morris who was afterwards
killed at the Battle of Germantown and
remained on duty with that Regiment
[illegible]
Deforest was with me on this [illegible]
After the defeat on Low [illegible] and [crossed out]
the Battle at the White Plains - and General
Washington had crossed Jersey into Pennsylvania, 
& my company was organized.
We knew there was a great many Tories
along the Musconetcong Hills in the upper
end of Hunterdon.  Van Sickle [crossed out] my Lieutenant
had been up in that neighborhood &
got information that a company of
them of about 56 [illegible] prepared & on
their way down to join the British
at New Brunswick.
He pushed on down got ahead of them
gave information to the Militia and
went on himself with the said Abraham DeForest
and two of the Lows, way laid the Tories
& fired on them in a wood near Readingtown 
[illegible] house, they had
some arms returned the fire and
[start footnote 0]
these men acted under me [illegible] and I acted
under orders from time to [illegible] received [illegible]
from General Washington [illegible] under the orders
of our militia officers.

Page 93

look to flight the greater part got away.
by that term I had come up with them
and a member of the neighboring
militia was collected.  We took 17 of 
the Tories prisoners on the first fire [crossed out].
Vansickle was badly wounded & carried down to
[crossed out] Jasper Bergers Tavern by the [illegible] house where
we brought in the prisoners [illegible].  I sent
off then prisoners with a guard under
the command of Deforest as sergeant to General Washington's
head quarters in Pennsylvania.
Vansickle [crossed out] recovered of his wounds but it
made a cripple of him so that he did
not afterwards act as Lieutenant.  I
appointed Jacob Emmans Lieutenant in
his place and Abraham Deforest as Ensign 
to fill the place of Emmans and
he [illegible] in that capacity to the end of
the war.  When there was an alarm
[illegible] out & went as many of us
as could get together with the rest of the militia at other times we
scattered about singly & in small
squads of 3 or 4 & traversed the [illegible]
by in different directions [illegible]
sometimes at home sometimes in one place
[crossed out] Jasper Bergers tavern in
Readingtown where we used occasionally
to Rendezvous.  but avoided public
musings as much as might be to
prevent the tories getting information
of our movements.  And we communicated 
all the information we could collect
to General Washington until he
moved to the south to the Capture of
Cornwallis.  And the said Abraham
Deforest being a confidential person

Page 94

9
was always employed by me to carry
[crossed out] information to General Washington
& bring back his directions to us.
We took the Tories above mentioned in
December 1776 where [crossed out] Vansickle was wounded
after which I gave D Forest the rank of
Ensign.  & he served in that capacity to
the end of the war.  Upwards of two years
after he was appointed ensign.
We had no communications that I recollect.
We were not commissioned in the general militia or
[illegible] attached as a company to any particular Regiment or [illegible]
nor do I remember that we had
any communication delivered to us as standing
troops but we received pay according to
our rank as officers from General Washington
but it was in Continental money.
We always found our own rations liquor & I was always for it.
Sworn & Subscribed at | David Schamp
Flemington N.J. August | 
14 1832 [illegible] | 
John Barton | 
I John Barton, the magistrate
before whom the above affidavit of David Schamp
was taken & subscribed Do hereby certify that
the said David Schamp is a credible man of good
character and entitled to belief.  Given under my hand
this 7th day of August AD 1833.
John Barton

Page 95

State of New Jersey Hunterdon County.  I Isaac G Tarler
[seal applied] | Clerk of the court of common pleas of
 | the County of Hunterdon in the State 
 | of New Jersey Do hereby certify that
 | John Barton Esquire whose name
 | is subscribed to the [illegible] of
 | the foregoing affidavit of David Schamp
 | & before whom the said affidavit was
taken & subscribed by the said David Schamp.
In and at the time of the taking of said affidavit
was one of the Judges of the said court of
common pleas duly Commissioned and sworn
to all whose Official Acts full faith & credit is
due.  In Testimony whereof I have here unto Set
my hand and affixed the seal of the said court at [illegible]
this 24 day of August 1833
Tarler Clk