Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 32, John R Davis, Va. Sea Service

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(3-1776) (typed)

SERVICE (typed)
Va. sea service (hand written)

Davis, John R. (hand written)

NUMBER (typed)
R. 32. (hand written)

Va. Half Pay (hand written)

CONTENTS (typed)
No supplemental half pay file (hand written)

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Executive Department, Richmond May 4th 1838.
The Heirs of John R. Davis are allowed Land Bounty for his services as a Lieutenant of Marines in the state  Navy for seven years
The Register will issue a Warrant accordingly if not heretofore drawn
Attest
Jno. B. Richardson
David Campbell
On 8th June 1838, Warrants No. 8585 for 3111 acres & No 8586 for 1555 acres issued to Samuel, John & James Davis, Anne E. Brough & Hannah Hansford, the heirs of John Davis, the son & only heir at law of John R. Davis decd.
A Copy from the Records of the Virginia Land Office
Teste,
L. H. Parker Reg. L. Office

25 cents Office

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Know all men by these presents that I Thomas Moore of Norfolk City in the State of Virginia as Administrator of the Estate of John R Davis of Hampton Elizabeth City County in the State of Virginia do hereby constitute nominate and appoint Isaac N Coffin of Washington City in the District of Columbia my lawful Attorney, irrevocable, hereby revoking all former Powers of Attorney, to prosecute any claims to land or money that may be due from the State of Virginia and the United States, or either on account of the services of said John R Davis as Lieutenant of the State Navy of the State of Virginia in the Revolutionary War and to demand and receive from the proper Offices in Richmond and Washington any land warrant or warrants so due, and to sell and assign the same or to surrender them at the General Land Office in order to obtain Certificates of scrip in lieu thereof, which he is authorised to receive sell and assign, or if said warrants be already surrendered, then to demand and receive the certificates and to sell and assign the same; if no scrip can be obtained he is authorized to receive the warrants which may have been surrendered and to locate or sell the same as he may think best. Said attorney is also authorized to prosecute by suit or petition and to demand and receive from the State of Virginia and the United States any half pay or commutation and interest that may be due and particularly under the Act of 5th July 1832 and to substitute and appoint one or more attorneys under him. And I hereby ratify and confirm whatever my said attorney or his substitutes may lawfully do in the premises.
As witness my hand and seal this 6th day of
      Thomas Moore

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February Eighteen hundred and fifty two. Signed Sealed and delivered in presence of Tho Moore [seal]  attest N Currier    
State of Virginia Norfolk City to wit. This day personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace in and for said city, duly authorized by law to administer oaths, Thomas Moore subscriber to the foregoing Power of Attorney and acknowledged the same to be his free act and deed as Administrator on the Estate of John R Davis mentioned in the foregoing Power of Attorney. As witness my hand and seal this 6th of February 1852.     Wm. G Camp
J.P [seal]     
State of Virginia City of Norfolk ss       I John Williams Clerk of the Court of the Corporation of the City of Norfolk aforesaid, do hereby certify that William Camp Esquire who has given the above certificate is now and was in the day of the date thereof a justice of the peace in and for the said City, duly appointed and qualified that he is authorized to take the acknowledgment of Deeds and that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as such and that the signature "Wm G Camp" thereto subscribed is genuine as I do verily believe On Testimony whereof I have hereunto annexed the seal of the said Court and subscribed my name this third day of April 1852 in the 76th year of the Commonwealth  Jno. Williams ce

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(signature, hand written) John R Davis

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Pension Office August 30th John R Davis Half Pay as Lieut in Virginia Navy (illegible) The Evidence filed in this case is conflicting & entirely unsatisfactory - this Payne testifies that Davis was a Lieutenant in the Virginia State Navy. Other witnesses testify that he was in the State Line   One witness testifies that he was in the 1st Va. Regt. He received depreciation as a Lieutenant of Infantry and settled in 1782 The witnesses generally testify that he died in 1783 or 4    Mrs Payne says he died in 1801 or 2 --- The heirs of John R Davis in 1838 received land after 7 years service as Lieut of Marines. Which of the witnesses shall we believe & which reject?  Was he in the State Line or was he in the Navy --- Something is said of his service on board the Patriot?  Did he settle his depreciation in 1782 or was it some other John R Davis?  Did he die in 1783 or in 1801?

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In Davis case ---  John Crawford -- Jeremiah Bishop and Thomas Wilkinson -- all certify to services of John R Davis 7th State Line said Davis lived in Sussex County at the time of taking depositions in 1832 -- but none of these witnesses state that he was from Elizabeth City - County --- John R Davis settled his depreciation too in 1782 as Lieut of Infantry --- State Line     Susan Rudd -- John Bushell -- Benj Storrs- all testify that they knew John R Davis of the Virginia Navy and they state that he was from Elizabeth City - County and that he died in 1784 or 5 or thereabouts   -- Mrs Payne (Ann) states that she knew him too and that he died in 1801 or 2      
The heirs of John R Davis in 1835 were allowed Land for 7 years service in State Navy as Lieut of Marines ---
Bounty -Land was allowed upon the deposition of Benj Storrs --- Susan Rudd and John Bushell and transcripts from the records of accounts with John R Davis Lieut of Marines in   1776.

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Deposition Ann Payne in the Case of Jno R Daivs 

Filed by R Burgess Dec12. 1849

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At a Court held for Elizabeth City County, September 27th 1849 On the motion of Thomas Moore who made oath according to law, and with Joseph N. Brough and Horatio Moore who justified as to their sufficiency, his securities, entered into and acknowledged a bond in the penalty of six thousand dollars, conditioned according to law, certificate is granted him for obtaining letters of administration on the estate of John R. Davis, decd [deceased] in due form     
A Copy Teste S. S. Howard clerk 
Ordered to be certified that from the evidence of Ann Payne aged eighty years and old and respectable lady well known to this court, that it is satisfactorily proved that John R. Davis was a Lieutenant in the Virginia State Navy in the time of the Revolutionary War, and that the said John R. Davis served till the war aforesaid was entirely ended, and that he never resigned his Commission and that the said John R. Davis died in Elizabeth City County sometime in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and one and that Joseph N. Brough aged forty years residing in the City of Norfolk, John Davis, aged forty three years, residing in the City of Norfolk, Samuel Davis, aged forty nine years, residing in the County of Norfolk, Ann E. Brough, aged forty six years, residing in the City of Norfolk, Hannah Hansford aged forty four years, residing in the County of Elizabeth City, grand children, Robert Repiton [Repitor], aged twenty one years, Helen Repiton [Repitor], aged eighteen years, residence unknown, William Davis, aged twenty one years, residing in Williamsburg, great grand children, are the only heirs at law now living, of the said John R. Davis decd [deceased] A copy Teste S.S. Howard clerk Virginia, Elizabeth City County To wit: I Samuel S. Howard Clerk of the Court for the County and State aforesaid do hereby certify that the foregoing are true transcripts from the records of my Office. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of Office this first day of October 1849 S. S. Howard Clerk [seal]

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ACT OF FEBRUARY 14, 1871 (typed, lined through)
WAR OF 1812 (typed, lined through)
3087
(illegible) of
John R. Davis
Lt
Va Navy
Revolution
Discharged (blank), 18
3087 (handwritten)
Half Pay Act - '32
Received (blank), 187
Attorney
32

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Requests copy of evidence in case of heirs of John R Davis 

Pension Office [year unclear]
Anderson WB Webb
OW
Geo. C. Whiting Comm of Pensions
Washington City

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Requests copy of evidence in case of heirs of Jhn R Davis     Pension office Sep 22 1886     Geo. C. Whiting Comm of Pensions Washington City

W B Webb

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John R. Davis
Lt. State Navy ---
Act 5th July 1832
Ellis Power of Atty to Mr Ciffin~ dated 1st of March Wm D. Webb Sept 24/60 [unusre date]
Rev Book J. J .Coombs

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This is to Certify, That it appears from a List in this Office of such Officers and Soldiers of the Virginia State Line, during the Revolutionary War, as settled their Accounts, and received Certificates for the balance of their Full Pay, according to an Act of Assembly, passed the November Session 1781, that a Certificate issued on the 26th day of June 1782, in the name of John R Davis as Lieut of Infantry for £82.1.7, which Certificate appears to have been delivered to himself and was given for services prior to 1st January 1782.
No Seal of Office.
Given under my hand at the Auditor's Office, Richmond, this 16th day of November 1849
J. E. Heath   Auditor.

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J R. Davis
______

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Memorandum.
The papers in the Case of John R. Davis a claim for Half pay under the act of 5th July 1832. R. W. Young atty for the Admr of John R. Davis     

[unreadable] papers to Clerk [unreadable] Cole } W Taylor June 7 / 53

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Susan Rudd & Ann Payne"s deposition in the case of Wm. Brough sent to W.S. Allison March 26. 1850

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Thomas Moore- Adm. 
of Jno R Davis Lt. 
J Knox Walker

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Know all Men by these Presents, That I Thomas Moore Administrator of John R Davis deceased a Lieutenant in Virginia state Navy of the revolution and James Davis Deceased a Lieutenant in the Illinoise Regiment  do hereby constitute, nominate and appoint Col. J. Knox Walker true and lawful Attorney hereby revoking all other Powers of Attorney to prosecute any claims to Land or Money that may be due from the State of Virginia and United States, or either, on account of the Revolutionary services of John R Davis Lt and James Davis Lt - and to demand and receive from the proper Offices in Richmond and Washington any Land Warrant or Warrants so due, and to sell and assign the same or to surrender them at the General Land Office, in order to obtain Certificates of Scrip in lieu thereof, which he is authorized to receive, sell and assign. Or if said Warrants be already surrendered, then to demand and receive the Certificates, and to sell and assign the same. If no Scrip can be obtained, he is authorized to receive the Warrants which may have been surrendered, and to locate or sell the same, as he may think best. Said Attorney is also authorized to prosecute by suite or petition, and to demand and receive from the State of Virginia and the United States. - any Half-Pay or Commutation, and interest that may be due, particularly under the act of 5th July, 1832; and to substitute and appoint one or more Attorneys under him, with a general or special authority to do all he is permitted to do, and revoke the same at pleasure. hereby ratify and confirm whatever said Attorney or his Substitutes may lawfully do in the premises. As witness my hand and seal this fifth day of March 1850 Thos Moore [seals]  
City OF Norfolk STATE OF Virginia To WIT: This day, personally appeared before me Notary Publick for said city - duly qualified and commissioned that Thos Moore the subscriber to the foregoing Power of Attorney, and acknowledged the same to be his free act and deed. As witness my hand and seal, this 5th day of March 1850 In testimony whereof I have heretofore set my hand and affixed my seal of office the day and year above written Cary Fentress Notary Public

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Col. James L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions

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Col. James L Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions

[left side handwritten vertically]
[appears Jan 3 25/00]

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Colo J L Edwards                         Washington DC
Comm of Pensions                       Jany 25, 1850
Sir
I enclose herewith several additional papers in support of the claim of Lieut John R Davis for half pay under the Act of 5 July 1832. These papers are a Certificate of the Auditor of Va. dated 16 Nov 1849 for L 82.1.7 for depreciation of pay. and a certificate that it does not appear that Lieut Davis ever resigned or was dismissed.
Upon examination of the papers I find the evidence upon which land county was granted by Va. is among the papers in file.
Respectfully
I am yr ob servt
R. Burgess

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There is no official Roll of Resigned and supernumary Officers of the Revolutionary War in this Office. There is a paper however in the hand writing of Mr Jefferson perporting to be such  a Roll but not regarded as Official. The name of John R. Davis as a Lieut in the State Navy does not appear on that Roll, nor does it appear elsewhere as far as a search has been, or case be made, that he has resigned . Given under my hand at the Auditors Office and this 19th day of January 1850- Jas E Heath 
Va. Aud [auditor]

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Washington DC Dec 12. 1849 I enclose herewith a power of attorney, and proof of the heirship and administration, also the deposition of Mrs Ann Payne in the Case of Lieut John R Davis for Half pay and in the Act of 5 Feby 1832 now on the suspended files of your office - Also depositions of Susan Rudd and Ann Payne in support of the claim of Wm Broughs heirs for pension under the Act of June 1832. - Also Sundry papers and documents in support of the claim of Lieut James Davis of the Illinois Regiment for Half pay under the Act 5 July 1832. Respectfully [unreadable] R. Burgess
Col. James L. Edwards
Commissioner of pensions

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Ann Payne's Deposition in James Davis' Case ---

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I hereby certify that i was born and raised in Elizabeth City County in State of Virginia aged eighty years where I have always resided That I was intimately acquainted with the Davis family of Elizabeth City County in State of Virginia, that I have given certificate in John R- Davis and James Davis cases for there services in the Revolutionary War, that I have every reason to know them having been intimate with the family from my youth whether John R Davis, was in Virginia State Navy that James Davis was in Virginia State Line and to the best of my knowledge marched to the West that I am fully confident what I stated in any deposition is correct. I know John R Davis was gone from home a long time and was supposed to be dead and that when he returned there was great rejoicing. That James Davis 
Was drowned from a board of a pilot boat belonging to Mr Roe Coffer, given under my hand seal this 1st day December Eighteen hundred forty nine
Ann Payne X her mark 
State of Virginia Elizabeth City County} To Wit
This day personaly appears before me a Justice of Peace in and for said county Ann Payne made oath to the truth of the above statement and I hereby certify that said Ann Payne is an old lady well known to me and that she is worthy of full faith and credit given and in my hand this 1st day December 1849 J. M. Willis J. P.

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Virginia, Elizabeth City County To wit: 
I, Samuel S.Howard, clerk of the court for the county and state aforesaid, do hereby certify that 
John M Willis, whose name is signed to the foregoing affidavit, is a Justice of the Peace in and for the [inserted said] county, duly commissioned and qualified according to law and that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as such  In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and affixed by seal of office this first day of December 1849 - S. S. Howard clk

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Power of Atty John R. Davis claim for half pay under oath 5th July  1832
 _______
Filed by R. Burgess Atty
Dec 12, 1849

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Know all Men by these presents, that I Thomas Moore Administrator on John D. Davis Lieutenant James Davis Lieutenant and William White Sailing Master of the Revolutionary War do hereby constitute, nominate and appoint Richard Burgess of Washington City true and lawful Attorney to prosecute any claims to Land or Money that may be due from the State of Virginia and United States, or either, on account of the Revolutionary service of said James Davis, John R Davis and William White and to demand and receive from the proper offices in Richmond and Washington any Land Warrant or War due, and to sell and assign the same, or to surrender them at the General Land Office, in order to obtain Certificates of Scrip in lieu thereof, which he is authorised to receive, sell and assign. Or if said Warrants be already surrendered, then to demand and receive the Certificates, and to sell and assign the same. If no Scrip can be obtained, he is authorized to receive the Warrants which may have been surrendered, and to locate or sell the same, as he may think best. Said Attorney is also authorized to prosecute by suit or petition, and to demand and receive from the State of Virginia, and the United States, or any person holding [unreadable]  any Half-Pay or Commutation, and interest that may be due, particularly under the act of 5th July, 1832; and to substitute and appoint one or more attorneys under him, with a general or special authority to do all he is permitted to do, and revoke the same at pleasure. hereby ratify and confirm whatever said Attorney or his Substitutes may lawfully do in the premises. As witness hand and seal this eighth day of October 1849 Tho Moore  [seals]

City of Norfolk to STATE OF Virginia To-wit: This day, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace for the said [unreadable]  Tho Moore subscriber to the foregoing Power of Attorney, and acknowledged the same to be his free act and deed. As witness my hand and seal, this eighth day of October 1849  Wm G Camp

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State of Virginia, City of Norfolk, to wit 
I John Williams, clerk of the Hastings court of the City of Norfolk aforesaid, in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that William G Camp Esquire who hath given the preceding certificate is a justice of the peace in and for the said city, duly appointed and qualified - that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as as such and that the signature “Wm G Camp” thereto subscribed is in his proper hand writing as I do verily believe. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of the said court and subscribed my name this eighth day of October in the year of our Lord One thousand and eight hundred and forty nine and of the Commonwealth the seventy fourth Jno. Willamson

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Mar 13/80
Lt. Jno R. Davis
& Lt. James Davis 
Power of Atty to J Knox Walker filed, who [respectfully?]  asks to examine the papers H.

W [Alli partly illegible]
Those papers must be in Mr [Smith -unsure]
room [illegible] case

J Knox Walker Present

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March 11. 1850. 
Sir: 
I hand you herewith a power of attorney from John Thomas Moore Administrator of James Davis Lt.  Illinois Regiment and Jno R Davis Lt of Marines.  
I am advised that these papers are on file & I respectfully ask permission to examine the proofs if on file 
J  Knox Walker Present 
Hon J. L. Edwards Comm Pensions

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May 20/50
Lt. Jno R. Davis
Virginia State Navy
Commutation
Requesting the Commissioners to take up this case for adjudication
J. Knox Walker

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Washington March 20. 1850.
Sir,
Filed with you some weeks ago a power of atty in the case of Lt. Jno. R. Davis of the Virginia State Navy. I desire you will take the case up with the additional papers filed since your letter to the administration of Sep 19. 1849- as an application for commutation pay of 5 years with interest  J Knox Walker Atty for admin

Hon J.L. Edwards Commis of Pensions 
Atty for Admr.

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Sep 19th [illegible] 195-
The Companies of Marines in service in 1776 discontinued but to enlist in land service if they chose to do so- If officers were supernumerary those to be set aside who were lated in completing their service- 

Discontinued at Oct Service [unsure] 1776 & reorganised again in 1779-
reorganized in May 1780

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Enclosing Power of Attorney from the admin of John R Davis a Lt in the Va State Navy to Isaac N Coffin of Washington City
filed 18 April 1852

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Washington April 7th 1852.
Sir: I herewith transmit Power of Attorney from Thomas Moore of Norfolk Va. Administrator of the estate of John R Davis late of Hampton Elizabeth City County Virginia, Lieutenant of Marines of the State Navy of Virginia, - authorizing me to attend to the half pay claim of said John R Davis and I respectfully request that said Power of Attorney be filed among the papers in relation to said claim. 
I am With the Highest Respect Your Obedt Servt 
Isaac N Coffin

James E Heath Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C.

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William B. WebbAttorney at Law,
No. 4 Lousiana Avenue.
United States Commissioner.
Washington,

Sept 21. 1860. Hon Geo. C Whiting Comms. of Pensions: Sir- Will you oblige me by letting me have from among the papers filed in your office to obtain the half pay due the heirs of John R. Davis a Lieutenant in the Revolutionary Army, a certified copy of the affidavit of Mr. Ann Payne additional affidavit. It is to be used in a cause now pending on the Chancery [unreadable] of our  Circuit Court. [unreadable] Very Respectfully Your Obt Servt W. B. Webb ___ Sol: for heirs of Davis

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Richmond 30th March 1838.
To the Governor of Virginia
Sir
I herewith enclose several affidavits in support of the claim of the heirs of Lieut: Jno. R. Davis, of Marines, for Land Bounty.  I had in my possession, a few days ago, a memorial signed by the heirs of Lt. Davis, but by accident it has been mislaid. I can only say that a majority of the heirs of Lt. Davis, and the affiants Benjamin Stores & Susan Redd, are residents of the county of Elizabeth City, which I have the honor to represent. Jeremiah Cain & John Buchel have died since their affts: were given. It affords me pleasure to testify to their good character & that I feel confident in the saying that the statements which they, & also the other affiants in their application, are entitled to the utmost confidence. Your early attention is respectfully solicited on behalf of the applicants - Yr’s very resp’y Sam B. Servant, 
Elizabeth City County to wit:
Before me Richard Banks a Justice of the Peace for the County aforesaid personally appeared Benjamin Storrs aged sixty seven years and upwards, who being duly sworn deposeth that he was well acquainted with Lieutenant John R Davis of the State Navy of Virginia during the War of the revolution. The affiants recollection is very distinct as to the numerous incidents of the revolutionary War, and in the years

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1781 entered the service when he had just attained his sixteenth year- The said Davis was in service for two or three years before that time, and he continued actively employed until the close of the war- The said John R. Davis died shortly after the peace, or before the year 1784.- Benjamin Stores {Stors]
The above affidavit sworn to before me this 11th day of June in the year 1832. Which I attest, R. G. Banks J P [handwritten seal] 
This is to certify that I have known to the above named Benjamin Stors for the last 6 or 8 years and believe that his evidence is entitled to credit. R. G. Banks J. P.
-
Elizabeth City County to wit:
Before me Teakle savage a Justice of the Peace for the said County, personally appeared John Bushell aged eighty eight years and upward, and being duly sworn deposeth that he was intimately acquainted with Lieutenant John R. Davis of the State Navy of Virginia, during the war of the revolution- He said Lieutenant Davis commanded service on board of the Patriot, in the early part of the war, and continued in active service on board of one or more of the Row Gallies, until the close of it, and deponent has always understood that the said Davis was an officer of merit and gallantry. He died in the year 1784 or 85, or there abouts, in this county  John Bushell x his mark
The above affidavit sworn to & subscrib’d before me this 13th day of July 1832 } 
T Savage J. P. _____
I was personally acquainted with Mr. Jno. Bushell & am of an opinion that his evidence is entitled to full credit. G A Cary J.P.

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Elizabeth City County Court July 26th 1832
Ordered that it be certified that it has been made appear to the satisfaction of the Court by the oath of Jeremiah Cain, that he was personally acquainted with Lieutenant John R. Davis, formerly of the State Navy of Virginia during the revolutionary war, and that the said Davis served as Lieutenant during the said war. Elizabeth City County, to wit: I Westwood S. Armistead clerk of the County Court of said County do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy from the records of said court. Given under my hand this 27th July 1832. W. S. Armistead Clk
Virginia Elizabeth  County 
Personally appeared before me Susan Rudd I made oath to the above certificate I believe that her evidence is entitled to full confidence. 
G A Cary J.P.
Saturday 2nd November 1776.
Ordered that a warrant issue to John R. Davis for fifty four pounds thirteen shillings for disbursements and pay of his company of Marines to the 31st October cash. From page 98
Ordered that Colo. William Finnie delivered unto Lieut John R. Davis four pair of stockings two p breeches

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breeches , one p shoes, and nine coates for the use of his company of marines from page 99
The foregoing entries are truly copied from the Naval Journal. Given under my hand at the Auditor’s Office Richmond this 2st day of March 1838 Jas. E Heath

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Dr. Lieut. John Davis   Cer
117 June 1 to Cash advanced you to [illegible] marines } [British pound sign] 14.50.0

By a balance due carried to [illegible] of Balance folio 132….} [British pound sign] 14.50.0
The forgoing is truly copied from a Book called Accounts of the Committee of Safety 
Given under my hand at the Auditor’s Office Richmond, this 1st day of March 1838. Jas E HEath see page 109

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[ledger page]
1776 Dr. Lieut. John R. Davis of the Marines
Nov. 2 To warrant on the Treasury [British pound sign] 54  13
To cash from the Committee of Safety}
Before the establishment of this Board
As credited in his acct…      14   50
To the Continental Store for sundries }
Delivered the 3rd Nov as p acct} 5   5   7     
                     [British pound sign] 74  4  7 
To Balance p Contra                       6  6  7 

By Genl. Account of Marines for Amt of Pay Roll from 
The 1st June to the 31st Oct. as this pay settled             64  13
By Ditto for a Musquett                                                          2 - -
By  Ditto for recruiting nine marines }                                  2  5 - 
                                                                                         68  18  0 
Ballance to new acct p Contra                                                 5   6  7 
                                                             [British pound sign]  74  4  7

I do hereby certify the forgoing account is truly copied from the Navy account ledger, an old book in this office. Given under my hand this 30 July 1833 at the Auditor’s Office Richmond      Jas E Heath Aud

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[unsure] May 15/ (illegible]

Comm

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Executive Department Richmond Va.April 20. 1849
I hereby certify that the foregoing are true copies of the papers filed in this department. 
Wm. H Richardson Clk Comth

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The deposition of Mrs. Ann Pane aged about 
eighty two years who first 
being duly sworn according to Law 
Deposeth and sayeth that she was well and intimately 
acquainted with John R. Davis, who was a Lieutenant
in the Virginia State Navy in the time of the 
Revolutionary War that the said John R. Davis Died
some time in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and one and to the best of my Recollection he served the war out as he did not come home untill the war was allover which was some time in the
 year 1783
Sworn to and subscribed this 5th Day April 1849 [illegible]
Thom Moore    
Ann Pane x her mark

State of Virginia Elizabeth City County} to wit:
This Day Ann Pane personally Appeared before me a Justice
of the Peace in and for the said County and made oath to the truth of the

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Above Deposition and I hereby certify that I have known the said Ann Pane for a number of years and that she is an old Lady worthy of full faith and credit given under my hand and seal this 5th day of April 1849 J M Willis J. P [seal]

Virginia Elizabeth City County to wit:
I Samuel Howard clerk of the Court for the Country and State aforesaid do hereby certify that John M. Willis whose name is signed to the above, was at the time of signing the same, and still is, a Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid duly commissioned and qualified according to law, that full faith and credit are due to all his acts and such, and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine. 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal this 7th day of May 1849
S. S. Howard Clk

Page 49


State of Virginia At a Court held for Norfolk County the 18th day of April 1849. The Court certify upon satisfactory evidence that John R. Davis was a Lieutenant of the Virginia State Navy in the War of the Revolution, and that the said John R. Davis who was a Lieutenant aforesaid died in the County of Elizabeth City in the State of Virginia in the year of  our Lord eighteen hundred and one. On the motion of Thomas Moore who made oath and together with Joseph N Brough, H Moore and Samuel Davis his securities entered into and acknowledged a bond in the penalty of six thousand dollars with condition according to law. Certificate is granted the said Thomas Moore for obtaining letters of administration in the estate of John R. Davis deceased in due form. I Arthur Emmerson Clerk of the County Court  of Norfolk County in the State of Virginia, hereby certify that the foregoing are true copies from the records of the said Court. In testimony thereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said County this first day of May 1849 & 73rd year of our Independence. Arthur Emmerson Clk

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The Deposition of Ann Pane who first being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath depose and say, that she has [illegible] given A certificate proving that John R.Davis A Lieutenant in the Virginia State Navy of the Revolutionary War died in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred & one in the county of Elizabeth City State of Virginia that the said John R. Davis was in the habit of following the water as an occupation for a living after the Revolutionary war was over that she is positive as to the time she has named in her deposition here to fore given that the said Davis was in the habit of staying from home for a long time when he went by water and that she is satisfied he served to the end of the Revolutionary war as he did not return home for some year or two after the war was over that a great many thought he was dead that she recollects well when he returned home there was a great rejoicing and further this deponent saith not- Sworn an Subscribed to this 7th day of May 1849
Ann Pane x her mark
State of Virginia Elizabeth City County} to wit
This day Ann Pane personally appeared before me a justice of the peace in  and for the county and made oath to the truth of the above deposition and I hereby certify that I have known the said Ann Pane for a Number of years and that she is an old lady worthy of full faith and credit, given under my hand and seal this 7th day of May 1849

JM Willis J.P. [seal]

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J R Davis

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Virginia Elizabeth City County to wit:
I, Samuel S. Howard, Clerk of the Court for the County and State aforesaid , do hereby certify that John M Willis whose name is signed to the foregoing affidavit is a Justice of the Peace for the County aforesaid, duly Commissioned an qualified according to law that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as such and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed by seal of office this 7th day of May 1849. S. S. Howard Clk

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May 15/64 
Brough [name scribbled out] 
John R. Davis, de'd
Act 5th July '32

Comm

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Norfolk City  May 8th 1849
Mr. Goodwin Sir I have taken the liberty to inclose to you some papers in a half pay case for the heirs of John R Davis as a Lt in the Va State Navy I was called on by by the heirs of this claim to become the administrator, Upon examination I found some difference in the certificate given when the said was drawn, and Mrs Panes evidence which was granted the certificate from, I therefore sent to elizabeth city county and gott an other certificate from Mrs Pane explaining the case more fully and from her [Deposition] I have no reason to doubt. her statements. I have understood that John R Davis Located some Lands in the Military District Long after the Revolutionary war, but be this as it may, I would not Like to have any claims Presented but what was strictly honest, if it is not against your Rules if you see it is a good case Present it and do for an old friend as well as you can in the case. I also sent you some papers for Capt. Joseph N Brough on account of his Father, Wm Brough services as a Lt in the Militia in the Revolutionary war which I think very clearly established but this case I have no Authority to receive If you can gett any thing for it write me if he will come up himself and draw it. by attending to this you will confer a lasting favour on your friend ve [me] 
Give my [ilegible] Respects to your family - Thos Moore

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[illegible] 9 Case June 18/49
John R. Davis Virginia State Navy  must be a Navy case not on roll half pay case

James L Edwards, Esq 
Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.
[stamp] NORFOLK VA 15 JULY

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[illegible] 9 Case June 19/49

John R. Davis Virginia State Navy  must be a Navy case not on roll half pay case

James L Edwards, Esq 
Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.
[stamp] NORFOLK VA 15 JULY

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Norfolk June 14 1849
Mr Edwards
Respected Sir I wrote you a few days ago about the case of John R Davis a Lt in the Virginia State Navy and in whose estate I am the Administrator, I begg to be pardoned if I have in any way Transgressed my Boundry, by putting you in mind of the case, as you Promised me it should be attended to as soon as possible, the case is a very [illegible] one as his having served to the end of the war & I understand that a Decision has been made, in all such cases that they are entitled to five years full pay with interest, this However is left to yourself as you are to be the Judge of it & I would be much obliged to you for your Decision on the case, and to know from you if whatever may be allowed can be sent to me by Draft without my comeing to Washington, as I am quit unwell & we have so much of the Colera here I dislike to leave my family your compliance {unsure] to this will greatly oblige yours Very Respectfully Thos Moore
James L Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions

Page 58


The Deposition of Susan Rudd who first being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath say that she was well and intimately acquainted with John R Davis who was a Lieutenant in the time of the Revolutionary war and that the said John R Davis served to the end of the said war which was some time in the year 1783 and that he never did resighn his commission to the best of her knowledge and belief. that the deponent is not interested directly or indirectly, and further this deponent sayeth not Sworn and subscribed to this 16th day of July 1849
[signature] Susan Rudd
State of Virginia Elizabeth City County} To Wit
This day personally appeared Susan Rudd before me Justice of the Peace and for said county and made oath to the truth of the above deposition and I hereby certify that the said Susan Rudd is an old Lady, worthy of full faith and credit, given under my hand JM Willis J.P. 
Virginia, Elizabeth City County to wit:
I, Samuel S. Howard, Clerk of the Court for the County and State of aforesaid, do certify that John M. Willis before whom the foregoing affidavit purports to have made is a Magistrate in and for said County duly qualified to administer oaths and that the above is his signature 
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office this 17th day of July 1849 S. S. Howard Clk 
[seal]

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Mar 30/50
Lt. John R Davis
Virginia State Navy ___
Commutation [looks like H]

Comm-
The depositions on page 2nd & 4th
evidently refer to Jno. R. Davis of the State line & not the present applicant -
Letter of Conv to V Ellis 12 Sept 1851 [year not clear as last number is heavy with ink]
filed by J Knox Walker present

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1 Elizabeth City County to wit 
Before me Teakle Savage a Justice of the peace for the said County personally appeared John Bushell aged Eight Eight years and upward, and being duly sworn, deposeth that he was intimately acquainted with Lieutenant John R Davis of the State Navy of Virginia during the war of the Revolution, the said Lieutenant Davis commenced service on board of the Patriot in the early part of the war, and continued in active service on board of one or more of the Row Gallies untill the close of it, and deponent has always understood the said Davis, was an officer of Merit, and gallantry, and died in the Year 1784 of ‘85 or thereabouts in this county. The above affidavit was sworn to and subscribed before me this 13th day of July 1832} John Bushell x his mark 
T Savage J. P. 
I was personally acquainted with Mr. John Bushell & am of the opinion, that his evidence is entitled to full credit. 
G. A. Cary J. P
A Copy Test [crossed out]

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2 I Thomas Wilkinson of Dinwiddie County & State of Virginia, do certify that John R. Davis now residing in Sussex County in the State of Virginia, was first Lieutenant in the Revolutionary War, and that I have knowledge of his continuing in office in service in said war, for more than three years, I also well recollect his commanding a company in said war, he belonged to the 1st Virginia State Regiment. given under my hand this 17th day of February 1832. Thoms. Wilkinson J. P. Dinwiddie County to wit
This day Thomas Wilkinson of the aforesaid County personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace for the said County and made oath to the above certificate. Given under my hand and seal this 13rd day of February 1832 James H. Boisseau J.P seal

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3 Elizabeth City County to wit,
Before Ms. Richard G Banks a Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid, personally appeared Benjamin Storrs aged Sixty Seven years and upwards, who being duly sworn deposeth that he was well acquainted with Lieutenant John R. Davis of the State Navy of Virginia during the War of the Revolution. the affiants recollection is very distinct as to the numerous incidents of the Revolutionary War, and in the year 1787 entered the service where he had just attained his sixteenth year. The said Davis was in service for two, or three years, before that time; and he continued actively employed until the close of the war. The said John R. Davis, died shortly after the peace before the year 1784  Benjamin Storrs 

The above affidavit sworn to before on this 11th day of June in the year 1832. Which I attest    R. G. Banks J. P. [circled] Legal
This is to certify that i have known the above named Benjamin Stors [Storrs] for the last 6 or [looks like 8] years, and believe that his evidence is entitled to credit. 
R. G. Banks J. P.

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4           State of Virginia Dinwiddie County to wit; 
Jeremiah Bishop an old Revolutionary Soldier, and respectable citizen of the County aforesaid, personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace for the said County, and made oath that some time in the year 1780, or in the time of the revolutionary war, This affiant was called into service, and ordered to meet at Petersburg in Virginia, there he was placed under the command of John R. Davis, whom he then understood, had been in service five years as an officer in the Virginia State line, and where this affiant was discharged, at Stones Mill below Smithfield, he left said Davis in service, and further this affiant saith that he knows John R Davis now residing in the county of Sussex and State as aforesaid, to be the same John R. Davs as above alluded to. Given under my hand this 29th day of April 1831 Jos. Goodwyne J. P. 

Dinwiddie  Sect  James Bishop another revolutionary Soldier equally respectable made oath before me to the correcting of the above affidavit, he having served in the same tours wth his Brother Jeremiah Bishop, given under my hand Jos. Goodwyn J. P.

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5    Virginia Elizabeth City County to wit
This is to certify that I know John R. Davis, and that he was attached to some vessel in the Virginia Navy in the Revolutionary War but do not know how long he served, but recollect well that he died shortly after the close of the war. 
Susan Rudd

Elizabeth City County & State of Virginia to wit
Personally appeared before me Susan Rudd, and made oath to the above certificate and I believe that her evidence is entitled to full confidence 
G. A Cary J P.

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6 Elizabeth City County Court July 26th 1832
Ordered that it be certified that it has been made appear to the satisfaction of the Court by the oath of Jeremiah Cain, that he was personally acquainted with Lieutenant John R. Davis formerly of the State Navy of Virginia, during the Revolutionary War, and that the said Davis served as Lieutenant during the said war. Elizabeth City County to wit
I Westwood S. Armistead do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy sworn the records of said Court  Given under my hand this 27th day of July 1832
W. S. Armistead Clk

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State of Virginia Town of Petersburg to wit John Crawford an old Revolutionary officer, and respectable Citizen of the Town aforesaid personally appeared before me an Alderman of the said town, and made oath that he was [inserted and underlined - was] acquainted with John R. Davis early in the Revolutionary War, and intimately acquainted with him, after the war, and he understood that the said Davis, in and during the said Revolutionary War, and that he thinks John R. Davis now resides in the County of Sussex, and State aforesaid to be the same John R. Davis referred to by the army register, as he never knew another man by that name. Given under my hand and seal as Alderman of the Town aforesaid, this second day of May 1831 in the 55th year of the Commonwealth. Danl Lyon Ald [seal]

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Executive Department Richmond Va/ March 12, 1850 I hereby certify that the foregoing are true copies of papers filed in this department Wm. H. Richardson Comh

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Norfolk Septr., 17th 1849
Mr J.L Edwards, Respected Sir haveing been confined to my house for quite some long time in consequence to my health, and haveing been called on by the Heirs of John R Davis A Lt in the state Navy frequently to know how it stood induce me to write to you this letter, together with some Reports Mr Joseph Segar has tould the heirs, I therefore would be extremely obliged to you to lett me know how the case stands, wheather you have acted on it or not, and at what time as I never have had any information on the Subject, also please lett me know if you Tould Mr, Joseph Segar that it was a claim good for nothing & that you had rejected it when first putt in that there was no evidence in the case. I hope Sir you will say wheather or not you had any conversation with Segar in this matter I have had but little to do with claims and I want nothing to do with any but what is just & Honorabe nor with any agent but what stand. above reproach I have no confidence in what Segar says induces me to write to you thus 
Very Respectfully yours [illegible letters]
Thos Mooore Administrator of John R Davis

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Washington July 19th 1849 Mr. J. L. Edwards, Respected Sir my Health makes me a little impatient, and you must excuse me for reminding you of the John R Davis case. I understood you had decided against it, if so I hope you will reconsider the matter before you make out your report as I cannot see for my life how you do it. He certainly drew land for 7 years and you well know in 1781 the Navy was disbandoned and all officers of it who served to that time was considered as serving to the end of the war, we have [illegible] nothing in this case, it is not one of your speculative only, you have the good & the bad evidence before you, I am the Administrator and I have endeavored to act as Correctly as posible in this matter, you know me & you know my Family from wence I sprang therefore Judge of the Correctness, it is a claim which I consider the 5 years full pay justly due, I am not contending for interest, allow as this & we shall be satisfied if the other is ever hereafter allowed so will if not we will be perfectly satisfied, we wish no contention or appeals, I therefore begg of you to give me your Decision on it as I must go home on Saturday By 9 Oclock your Compliance will offer a great favour on me as unwell & I am yours Truly Thos Moore Please putt your Decision in the Port office or send it to me by Mr Godwin as I am not able to go about to come to see you

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Cont to be filed with papers- 

Richd Burgess Preston Nov 6, '49

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Know all Men by These Presents, That Thomas Moore
-
Administrator of John R Davis deceased
do hereby constitute, nominate and appoint Richard Burgess of Washington City
true and lawful Attorney
to prosecute any claims to Land or Money that may be due from the State of Virginia and United States, or either, on
account of the Revolutionary services of Lieutenant John R Davis and to demand and receive from the proper offices in Richmond and Washington, any Land Warrant or Warrants so
due, and to sell and assign the same, or to surrender them at the General Land Office, in order to obtain Certificates of
Scrip in lieu thereof, which he is authorised to receive, sell and assign. Or if said Warrants be already surrendered, then
to demand and receive the Certificates, and to sell and assign the same. If no Scrip can be obtained, he is authorized to receive the Warrants which may have been surrendered, and to locate or sell the same, as he may think best. Said Attorney
is also authorized to prosecute by suit or petition, and to demand and receive from the State of Virginia, and the
United States.
any Half-Pay or Commutation, and interest that
may be due, particularly under the act of 5th July, 1832; and to substitute and appoint one or more Attorneys under
him, with a general or special authority to do all he is permitted to do, and revoke the same at pleasure.
hereby ratify and confirm whatever said Attorney or his substitutes may lawfully do in the premises. As witness
hand and seal this 31 day of October 1849
Thos Moore
[ink stamp] SEAL SEAL SEAL SEAL SEAL SEAL

City of Norfolk STATE OF Virginia To-Wit:
This day, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace for the said City
Thos Moore
subscriber to the foregoing Power of Attorney, and acknowledged the same to be his free act and deed. As witness my hand and seal, this 31st day of October
1849
Hon Parker J.P.

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State of Virginia City of Norfolk se:
I John Williams Clerk of the Hustings Court of the City of
Norfolk aforesaid in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that Nicholas
Parker Esquire who hath given the within certificate is justice
of the peace in and for the said City, duly appointed, and qualified
that full faith and credit are due to all his acts as such and that
the signature "N W Parker" thereto subscribed is in his proper hand
writing as I do verily believe. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto
affixed the seal of the said Court, and subscribed
my name this thirty first day of October in the
year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred
and forty nine, and of the Commonwealth the
seventy fourth
Jno Williams cc