Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 34108, Almarin Brooks, New Jersey

Page 1

(8-1776)

[column headings:
Service
Number]

Service:
New Jersey
also 1794 - Major
1798 - Captain

Brooks, 
Almarin

Number:
S34108
B.L.WT 186-150
Ensign issued July 7, 1789. No papers.

Page 2

(12) New Jersey
Almarin Brooks
Capt Wayman
Ensign,
of N. Jersey
In the army of the U. States
---
At $20 per month, to commence
19 March, 1818.
---
Cert: issued 30th March 1818.
& sent to the Hon. Mr Bateman
, House of Reps. U. States
---
Act to 4th Sept 1818. 5 14/28 mo. $110.--
Rev Claim,
Act 18th March, 1818.
New Jersey Line
Eight years
Discontinued
Notification sent to Ebr Seeley
Esq 21 July 1820
Bridge Town, Cumberland

Page 3

State of New Jersey
Cumberland County

Almarin Brooks, of Cumberland County New Jersey, being dully sworn, deposeth and saith, that this deponent enlisted into the army of the ?? of the Unisted States as a private soldier, under Capt. Richard Howell, in the year 1775, and continued in their service, with the esception of a few month, as a noncommissioned officer, till the 12th day of July 1780, when he received a commission as ensign in the 2nd New Jersey Reg. signed by Samuel Huntington, President of Congress, and attested by Benj Howard ?? of the Board of Wars that deponent continue as an officer and accordingly as such with the said second Regt, commanded by Col. Ogden till the conclusion of the revolutionary war, and the disbandment of the army, and this, deponent furthers faith, that from bodily infirmity and misfortune he is reduced to such circumstances in life as requires the assistance of his country for support.
Alexander Brooks

Subscribed and sworn to before me one of the Judges of the Common ? of the County of Cumberland, New Jersey
March 17th 1818
James D. Westcott

Page 4

State of New Jersey
Cumberland County Ss
Ebenezer Elmer of the County of
Cumberland State of New Jersey being duly sworn
deposeth & saith that he was acquainted with
Alemerin Brooks in the New Jersey Brigade of
Troops in the service of the United States during the
Revolutionary war, and knows said Brooks
served some years as a Sergeant in the second Regt
of said Brigade, but was promoted & Commissioned
as a Subaltern in the line, as near as this Deponent
can recollect some time in the year 1780 & 
continued to do duty in that capacity in several 
companies untill the declaration of peace & disbandment
of the Army. And this Deponent further saith that
he hath lived in the same County & been 
familiar with said Brooks ever since that period
& knows that for the last twelve or fourteen years
he hath been in an infirm & crippled State of body
& still continues so that he is incapable of 
providing for himself & family a comfortable support
& is therefore a suitable object for the assistance of his
Country,
s/ Eben Elmer

Subscribed and sworn to
before me one of the judges of
the Court of Common pleas of the
County of Cumberland, New Jersey
March 17th 1818
s/ James D. Westcott

Page 5

State of New Jersey
Cumberland County ss
James Giles of the County of Cumberland
State of New Jersey, being duly sworn deposeth & saith, that
he well knows Almarin Brooks who has subscribed the annexed
affidavit & that his acquaintance with him commenced sometime
about the year 1790. since which time he hath lived in
the same Town with him. That this Deponent has no
knowledge of said Broke serving in the War of the Revolution
other than [illegible] this Deponent has associated with him several
times in the New Jersey State Society of Cincinnati, of which
said Society said Brooks & this Deponent are member -
that in consequence of the infirm state of health of said
Brooks for several years past, by reason of which he is rendered
almost wholly incapable of making any provision for himself or
family, he has been annually assisted by said Society of Cincinnati,
therefore this Deponent believes him to be a proper object for
the assistance of his country
s/ James Giles

Subscribed and sworn to March
18th 1818 before me 
s/ James D. Westcott

State of New Jersey
Cumberland County Ss.
This is to certify that after a careful examination
of the Declaration on oath of Almarin Brooks, and of
the depositions of Generals Ebenezer Elmer and James
Giles, it appears to my satisfaction that the said
Almarin Brooks served in the revolutionary army
against the common enemy, as a private and now 
commissioned officer from some time in the year 1775
till July 12th 1780, and from the latter period till the
termination of the war as an officer on the continental
establishment; and I herewith transmit the testimony
and the proceedings in the case before me one of the
Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the County and
State aforesaid.
Given under my hand this nineteenth day of
March 1818.
s/ James D. Westcott

Page 6

I Ebenezer Seeley Clerk of the Inferior Court of
Common Pleas in & for the County of Cumberland
and State of New Jersey, Do hereby certify that
James D Westcott Esquire before whom the declaration
on oath of Almarin Brooks, and the portions
of General Ebenezer Elmer & James Giles appear to
have been taken being hereunto annexed, and who
has signed the foregoing certificate, was at
the time of signing said Certificate and affidavit 
a Judge of the Inferior Court of Common
Pleas in said County, and that there
faith and credit is and ought to be given to
his official attestations as such. In testimony 
wereof I have hereunto subscribed
my name and affixed my seal of
office the nineteenth day of March in
the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and eighteen
s/ Ebenr Seeley Clk

Page 7

Copy of Almarin Brooks
Scheduler

Page 8

State of New Jersey, Cumberland County Inferior
Court of Common Pleas, of the Term of September
eighteen hundred and twenty, on this twentieth
day of October 1820. Personally appeared in open
Court being a Court of Record, for the said County
of Cumberland, Almarin Brooks aged sixty
four years, resident in Bridgetown in said
County, who being first duly sworn, according to
law, doth on his oath make the following
declaration in order to obtain the provisions
made by the acts of Congress of the eighteenth day
of March 1818 and the first day of May 1820.
that he the said Alman Brooks enlisted
for one year in the Summer of 1775 in New Jersey
in Capt Richard Howells company in the second
Regiment commanded by Col William Maxwell
in the New Jersey line, and went to Canada, he
returned in ill health to Cumberland County
New Jersey in about sixteen months, and was
paid off by Seth Bowen Lieutenant in Capt
Howells company, he continued unfit for duty
for several months and in the Summer of 1777
enlisted again for three years or during the war
in New Jersey, with ensign James Johnson I
was made a non commissioned officer in Capt
Samuel Handy's Company in the second Regt
commanded by Col. Shreeve - He believes he
continued in the same company altho at times
under the command of different officers, with
out recollecting dates, until selected for a light
Infantry Company under the command of
Capt Samuel Bowman, and there continued
until appointed by recommendation of his 
officers, without his application or knowledge
an ensign in Capt Wymans Company

Page 9

in the second Regiment by commission dated July
12th 1780, to take rank from 17th January 1780, and
continued in his company until a reduction of 
the Regiment in the winter of 1782. 83, when
peace was concluded, was their transfered to
the first Regiment commanded by Col. Mathias
Ogden in the Jersey line and there continued
until the army was discharged at Newburgh 
Thats near to New Windson in the State of
New York. That he was in several skirmishes
on Abrahams Plains and in Canada in
1776, was at the Battle at Short Hills near to
Scotch Plains, and was wounded in '77, at 
Brandywine in '77- at Germantown and wounded
in '77 at Monmouth in '78, at the Battles of
New Town and Chemung with the Indians
under General Sullivan in '79, at two Battles
in Springfield in '80, was at the seige of
York and Surrender of Cornwallis in 1781 and
in many skirmishes throughout the war,
being generally with the light Parties in front
and on the flanks to harrass the Enemy.
That he lost the certificate of pay due to him in the
middle of the Delaware nearly opposite to New
Castle, and applied to Congress while sitting in
Philadelphia for their renewal but failed on
the supposition that they might be found by
some other person. that his age is as above
Specified, that his wife Sarah is aged fifty
four years last August, who with a coloured
Servant Girl 28 years old, and infirm in health
compose the whole of the family residing with
him, or in whom he has any dependance for
support. From the effect of a severe hurt

Page 10

in his knee & leg received at West Point, and from
the Rheumatism he lost the use of his limbs in
1802, and from 1805, was so helpless, for Seven or
eight years as to be unable to stand, walk
or undress himself, his property and means became
almost exhausted, and he could not 
possibly have subsisted for twelve years past or
prevented his little remaining property from being
sold for the necessary expenses of himself & family
had it not been for the assistance of his friends
and the Cincinnati Society, he is still without
the use of his limbs, weak, infirm & unable
to walk without two supports and entirely
unable to provide for himself & family.
And in pursuance of the act of the first
day of May 1820 I do Solemnly Swear, that I
was a resident citizen of the United States on
the eighteenth day of March 1818 and that I have
not since that time by gift sale or in any
manner, disposed of my property or any part
thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it,
as to bring myself within the provisions of an
act of Congress, entitled an act to provide for
certain persons engaged in the land and naval
service of the United States in the Revolution
War, passed on the 18th day of March 1818, and
that I have not nor has any person in trust
for me any property or securities contract debts
due to me; nor have any income other than
what is contained in the Schedule hereto 
annexed and by me Subscribed.
Schedule
---
Mahogany Bureau -- Dollars - 10.00
Cherry breakfast table 4 pine desk 3-- 7.00
18 old chairs --- 5.40
$22.40
[illegible] company

Page 11

Brot. over $22.40
2 pair tongs 2.00 - 2 pair Andirons 3.00 -- 5.00
1 Small Looking glass .50- a large one -- 3.00- 3.50
1 Walnut Table 3. Rug Carpet 8. -- 11.00
Cupboard 4.00 fine table 50 fine stand 50. Tray 75 -- 5.75
Duncan ware plates 2 dishes, 1 Wash bowl 2 Pitchers -- 1.75
2 tea pots, 17 Cups & Saucers, Cream pot. sugar bowl -- 1.50
1 Doz. tea spoons, Pair Sugar tongs -- 3.00
Lot of Glass ware 1.25, brushes 75 -- 2.00
1 Stove 12. Knives & forks 1. -- 13.50
Lot of Pots Kettles, bake Iron Skillet, Sadirons -- 3.50
Lot of tin ware & earthen ware -- 3.00
2. Tubs, dish tub and pail -- 1.50
1 old wheel, churn & 4 [illegible] -- 1.00
1 Dan John 14 Bottles 3 old barrels -- 1.50
1 Warming pan & frying pan -- 1.50
Spade, rake, pitchfork, 2 hoes, and wheelbarrow - 4.75
1 old Lye tub & Soap tub -- .50
1 Cow 8. one Pig 1. -- 9.00
$95.15
---
The whole of the above household furniture
is more than twenty years old.
Appraised as above, by order of the
Court, by in this Twentieth day of October
1820.
S/ Wm Potter
s/ Elias P. Seeley

Sworn to and declared on the Twentieth
day of October, one thousand eight hundred &
Twenty in open Court, being a special
adjourned Session of September Term
s/ James Clark,
s/ Almarin Brooks

The court are of opinion that the total amount in value of the
property exhibited in the aforesaid schedule is ninety five dollars

Page 12

I Ebenezer Seeley, Clerk of the Inferior Court of
Common Pleas of the County of Cumberland, State of
New Jersey, Do hereby certify that the foregoing
oath, and the schedule thereto annexed, are
truly copied from the records of the said Court:
and I do further certify, that it is the opinion
of the said Court, that the total amount in
Value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid
Schedule is ninety five dollars and fifteen
cents. In testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and affixed the seal
the said Court, on this Twentieth
day of October eighteen hundred
and Twenty
s/ Ebenr Seeley Clk

I certify the foregoing to be a true copy of the original
application & Schedule of Al Brooks filed in my
office on the 20th day of October 1820, and remaining
of record on the files thence. In Testimony whereof I
have hereunto subscribed my name and
affixed my seal of office the 8th day of
March one thousand eight hundred and
twenty three
s/ Ebenr Seeley Clk

Page 13

Upper Pittsgrove Salem County N Jersey
Sir
I write at this time for information in
relation to arrears of Pension due on the
death of a Pensioner; Alnarin Brooks
a pensioner died in 1824 leaving three
years unclaimed pension; he left
no widow nor children; the only
heirs now living are two Grand children
Now the question involved is, to whom
is the three years pension payable?
Can the two grandchildren demand
and receive the amount
April 26th 1851
Very Respectfully Yours
s/ Ken Brown

s/ Hon Jas E Heath
Commissioner
of Pensions

May 10. 1851.
Copy
John Brown
Upper Pitts
Upper Pittsgrove 
Salem County 
N. H. (entered of NJ)

In answer to your letter respecting the
case of Almarin Brooks, deceased, I have to inform you
that if arrears of pension were due at the time of his
death, it can drawn by his legal representations.
I am respectably
[mark for his signature]

Page 14

Rev. and 1812
Wars Section
MCS:MLB

October 23, 1930

Mrs. Emma S. Norris
Box 197
Stone Harbor, New Jersey

Dear Madam:

You are advised that it appears from the papers in the
Revolutionary War pension claim, S. 34108, that Almarin Brooks
was born February 6, 1756, place not stated.

He enlisted in New Jersey in the summer of 1775, served
sixteen months as private in Captain Richard Howell's company
in Colonel William Maxwell's New Jersey regiment and was in
several skirmishes in Canada, one of which was on the Plains
of Abraham. He enlisted in the summer of 1777 and served as
sergeant in Captain Samuel Hendry's and Nathaniel Bowman's
companies in Colonel Israel Shreve's New Jersey regiment until
May or June 17, 1780; during this service he was wounded in
the battle of Short Hills, was in the battle of Brandywine,
was wounded in the battle of Germantown, was in the battle of
Monmouth, and went with General Sullivan on his expedition
against the Indians in 1779 during which time he was in the
battles of Newtown and Chemung. On May or June 17, 1780 he
was appointed ensign in Captain Abel Weyman's company in
Colonel Shreve's New Jersey regiment and in the winter of
1782 - 1783 he was transferred to Colonel Matthias Ogden's New Jersey
regiment and served until the army was disbanded at
the close of the Revolution; during this service he was in two
battles at Springfield, at the siege of Yorktown and surrender
of Cornwallis, and in many skirmishes.
He served as major in the expedition against the Indians
in 1794.
During the war against France in 1798, he was appointed
captain in a United States regiment.

Page 15

This soldier was a member of the New Jersey Society of
Cincinnati.

He was allowed pension on his application executed in
March, 1818, at which time he was a resident of Bridgeton,
Cumberland County, New Jersey,

In 1820, he referred to his wife, Sarah, who was born in
August, 1766 or 1767.

Almarin Brooks died in 1824 and was survived only by two
grandchildren whose names are not given. They were living in
1851.

In order to identify the record of the particular soldier
of the Revolution, in whom you are interested, by the name of
Isaac Johnson, as much as possible of the following data are
essential: approximate dates of birth and death, places of
residence at enlistment and after service and given name of
widow.

Very truly yours

E. W. MORGAN
Acting Commissioner

Page 16

Rev. War Section.
3 - 1855
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BURN OF PENSIONS
WASHINGTON July 11, 1917.

Mr. A. W. Watson,
Law Library,
Capitol.

Sir:

In response to your personal request on the tenth instant
you are advised that the papers in claim Survivor's File No. 
34,108 Rev. War, show that Almarin Brooks of Bridgetown, 
Cumberland County, New Jersey, was allowed pension on his 
application executed March 19, 1818, on account of his services in
the Revolution as follows.

He stated that he enlisted in New Jersey in the summer of
1775, as a Private in Captain Richard Howell's company, Colonel
William Maxwell's 2nd New Jersey regiment, that he was in skirmishes
on Abraham Plains and in Canada in 1776, and served 
sixteen months.

Enlisted in the summer of 1777, was appointed Sergeant in
Captain Samuel Hendry's company, Colonel Israel Shreve's 2nd
New Jersey regiment, and continued in the same company commanded
by different officers until he was selected & served in Captain
Nathaniel Bowman's Light Infantry company; he was wounded
in the battle of Short Hills, was in the battle of Brandywine,
wounded in the battle of Germantown, was in the battle of Monmouth,
and in the battles of Newtown and Chemung under General
Sullivan against the Indians: he was appointed June 17, 1780,
Ensign in Captain Abel Weyman's company, Colonel Shreve's regiiment,
was in two battles at Springfield, at the siege of Yorktown
and surrender of Cornwallis; in many skirmishes throughout
the war continued in the 2nd regiment until the winter of 1782-
1783 when he was transferred to Colonel Matthias Ogden's 1st
New Jersey regiment and served until the Army was disbanded at
Newburgh, New York

He was a member of the New Jersey Society of the Cincinnati.
He stated that he was sixty-four years of age February 6,
1820, and at his wife Sarah was fifty-three years of age in
August, 1820. 

It is further stated that Almarin Brooks held a Major's
commission in the Western Expedition of 1794; and a captain's
commission in 1798 during our differences with France, and that
he died in 1824 leaving no widow nor children, but two grandchildren
only heirs in 1851 their names are not stated.
Very respectfully,
s/ G M Saltzgaber
Commissioner

Page 17

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section

February 18, 1927

Robert P. Brooks
Principal, Public School No. 3
Paterson, New Jersey

Sir:

I have to advise you relative to the Revolutionary War
pensioner, Almarin Brooks, (S.34108), of the New Jersey
Troops, and the only soldier by that name found on the
Revolutionary War records of this Bureau, that the names of
his parents do not appear in the papers on file in his claim
for pension.

Respectfully,

WINFIELD SCOTT
Commissioner.

Page 18

Box 197 Stone Harbor, N.J.
Oct. 2nd '30


U.S. Dept of the Interior
Washington, D.C.

Please give me what 
information you can of the 
War records of Major Almarin Brooks
who was Major in the Revolutionary
War. Also Isaac Johnson.
I am a descendant of both, and
are anxious to get war record
if there is any. Thank you very
much.
Respt.
(Mrs) Emma S. Norris
Stone Harbor
Box 197
New Jersey

[stamp]
U.S. POST OFFICE
OCT 4 1930

Page 19

PUBLIC SCHOOL No. 3
MAIN STREET
PATERSON, N. J.
ROBERT P. BROOKS, PRINCIPAL

January 1, 1927

Pension Office
Washinton, D.C.

Sirs:

Can you furnish me with the names
of the parents of Sargeant Almarine Brooks 
Said Brooks was Sergeant in the 2nd
N. J. Troops Feb. 9, 1777: Ensign May 17, 1780
and was retained in the N. J. Battalion
until Apl 1783. He served until Nov 3, 1783
His death was in 1821 Jan. 25th.

Very July,
Robt P. Brooks

Page 20

Inquiry by telephone
July 10, 1917
from
A. W. Watson, Law Library Capitol
for history
of Almarin Brooks, War Rev

Page 21

[transcription left side rotated text]
1917 July 11 Hist. to A. W. Watson
1927 Feb 19 [illegible]
of [illegible]
1930 Oct 23 - Hist. Mrs. Emma S. Norris

INVALID.
-------
File No. 34,108
Almarin Brooks
Lt Rev War
--------
Act: 18th March 18[illegible]
Index: -- Vol. 2, Page 55

[Arrangement of 1870.]

Page 22

Ms Geo. Boyd
Pension Office

War Department

[amounts written upside down]

1818,9,4
1818,3,18
---------
5. 14/28
20
-----
$100
10
-----
$110

Page 23

House of Representatives
March 30th 1818
Sir
I return you the papers in the case of Capt.
A. Brooks who has applied for a pension under the
act of the 18th inst which Genl Bloomfield was 
permitted to withdraw
It is my opinion that Brooks case is made
out agreeably to the requisition of the War Department
If you should think otherwise you will please to
advise me of the deferd.

Yours Respectfully
s/ Ephraim Bateman

Mr Geo. Boyd

Page 24

Almarin Brooks
application
for a
Pension
-
Dec 15th 1821
Recd to Commt or Revoly. Pensions

Page 25

To the Honourable Senate & House
of Representatives of the United States of America

The Petition of Almarin Brooks of
Bridgetown, in the County of Cumberland
and State of New Jersey, aged Sixty five years, the
Sixth day of February eighteen hundred & twenty
one, Humbly Herewith.

That your Petitioner was a soldier and
Officer in the Revolutionary War. that he 
enlisted for one year in the summer of 1775.
in the New Jersey line in Capt Richard Howells
company, in the 2nd Regiment commanded by
Col William Maxwell, and went to Canada
and returned in ill health, to Cumberland
County, New Jersey, in about six months, and
continued unfit for duty for several months,
and in the summer of 1777 enlisted again
for three years or during the war in the New Jersey
line, and was appointed by recommendation
of his officers, an Ensign in Capt Abel
Weymans Company in the 2nd Regiment by commission
dated 12th July 1780, and continued
in his company until a reduction of the 
Regiment, when peace was concluded, and was
then transfered to the first Regiment, in the
Jersey line, and there continued until the
army was disharged at Newburgh huts, near
to New Windson in the State of New York,
during which time of service he was in
Several Skirmishes on Abrahams Plains
and in Canada in 1776, was in the battle
at Short Hills near to Scotch Plains, and
wounded in 1777, at Monmouth in 1778,
at the battles of Newtown and Chemung
with the Indians, under Genl Sullivan
in 1779, in two battles at Springfield in
1780, was at the Seige of York and the surrender
of Cornwallis in 1781, and in many
other Skirmishes and Battles throughout

Page 26

the war, being generally with the light parties
in front, and on the flanks to have the enemy.
And your Petitioner further says, that he
lost the certificate of pay due to him for his 
services in the middle of the River Delaware, and
applied to Congress then sitting in Philadelphia
for their renewal, but failed on the
supposition that they might be found, but
he believes they never have been found, nor
has he ever received the money specified in them
to be paid to him.

And your Petitioner further shews, that
his family has for several years past, and at
present does consist of himself, age as above
specified, his wife aged fifty four years last
August, and a coloured girl aged twenty nine
years, and of infirm health; being the only
persons, on whom he has any dependance
for support; from the effect of a severe hurt
in his knee and leg, by the blowing of rocks at
west point, and from the Rheumatism, he
lost the use of his limbs in the year 1802 and
from the year 1805 was so helpless for seven
or eight years, as to be unable to stand,
walk, or undress himself, his property of means
became almost exhausted, and he could not
possibly have subsisted for fifteen or sixteen
years past, or have prevented his little remaining
property from being sold for the
necessary expenses of himself and family
had it not been for the assistance of friends
and the Cincinnati Society, and he is still
unable to walk without two supports & is subject
to severe attacks of sickness every year.
when his life is generally dispared of and is
entirely unable to provide for himself or family

Page 27

And your Petitioner humbly shews further
That in the spring of 1818 he was placed on the
Pension list as an officer, under the act of Congress
passed March 18th 1818 entitled an act to
provide for certain persons engaged in the land
and Naval Service of the United States in the
Revolution War, and received the bounty of
Congress until the 4th of March 1820. That on
the 22d day of June 1820 he applied for a continuance
of his Pension under the act of the 1st
of May 1820, in addition to the act of the 18th of
March 1818, but did not succeed in obtaining
further pension as your Petitioner expects
on account, of the amount in value of his
property in the Honourable Secretary's opinon
appearing in the whole too great to require
the aid or assistance of Government
although at that time he was indebted for
necessaries furnished himself & family to a larger
amount than the sum and which his personally
property was valued at in his Schedule & the end
for which his house & lot was sold for by the Sheriff.

And his creditors, who for a long time previous to
his application last aforesaid, had furnished himself
and family with the real necessaries of life, on
hearing that his name was stricken from the Pension
list, knowing that he had no way of earning any
money to pay their accounts became uneasy and
impatient for their demands, and he was obliged
to give his bond to one Samuel Tomlinson for about
ninety Dollars for necessaries furnished him that the
bond was prosecuted to Judgement & execution
issued thereon, against his goods & lands, and
the small house & lot which he occupied being
all the Land he owned) was sold by the Sheriff
for the sum of $107 a sum barely sufficient
to pay the debt and costs, and one
John Sibley was the purchaser of said house &
lot and has since agreed with your Pettioner

Page 28

that he will make him a good & clear title to said
house & lot if your petitioner will pay then the
amount of the purchase money with interest from
the day of sale the day of the said
House & lot by the said Sheriff as aforesaid your
Petitioner again applied for Pension  under
the said act of the 18 March 1818 & the Suplement
thereto of the 1st of May 1820, the whole amount
of property exhibited in that application, and
as certified to by the Court of Common Pleas
of the County of Cumberland amounted to
the sum of $95.15. he received information
from the war office, that his name
could not be reinstated on the Pension
last for the cause that the Secretary at War
had no power under the existing laws of
Congress to restore on subsequent & different
evidence the name of any person who may
have been stricken off, on the evidence of
the Schedule.
We your Petitioner respectfully hear
further, that one he has been deprived of the
assistance of Government, he has been obliged
to purchase necessaries for himself and family
at a credit and that he is at this time indebted
to the amount of more than one hundred and
twenty five Dollars, and is entirely unable to
pay the same or any part thereof, and that
his little remaining property is able to be
seized at any moment and taken from him
and sold for the purpose of his having
said debts.
Your Petitioner therefore prays that
there may be Law parted for his relief
granting him a Pension during life
to commence from the fourth day of March
one thousand eight hundred & Twenty.
[illegible] the time that his late pension

Page 29

expired, or to commence from such time
as the Honourable Gentle and House of 
Representatives may think proper
s/ Almarin Brooks

Bridgetown Cumberland
County, New Jersey
[illegible], 15, 1821

Page 30

Application for pension
from
Almarin Brooks
New Jersey.

Page 31

To the Honourable John C. Calhoun Secretary at War of the
United States of America

The undersigned having entered into the military service of the
Congress of the United States in the year 1775, as a private soldier, and
and continued therein till July 12th 1780, when he received a commission
of Ensign in the second New Jersey Regiment, on the continental
establishment, in which capacity he continued in service doing
duty with the said second regt commanded by Col. Israel Shreeve
and with the first regt commanded by Col. Ogden till the close of
the revolutionary war, and the disbandment of the army; and
being from bodily infirmity and misfortune reduced to such
circumstances in life as to require the assistance of his country
for support, respectfully applies to be placed on the pension
list of the United States, and herewith enclose the testimony
to substantiate his claim to an officer's pension, and the
certificate of James D Westcott Esquire, one of the Judges of the
Court of Common pleas of the County of Cumberland, State of
New Jersey of the proceedings in his case
Bridgetown New Jersey
March AD 1888.
s/ Almarin Brooks
-

Page 32

Be it known that I Ebenezer Elmer of the
County of Cumberland & State of New Jersey, in
the Seventieth year of my age, Having been duly
sworn, do seriously & Solemnly attest that I was
well acquainted with Capt Almerin Brooks (the
applicant to Congress for a Pension) during the
Revolutionary War of the greatest part of that
ful period; That he served in the New Jersey line
in the service of the United States, for some time
as a Sergeant, & afterwards as a Subalter Commissioned
officer, untill the declaration of Peace,
& discharge of the Brigade;-- That he was frequently
employed, in that arduous confict, in
flanking parties, partizan corps, & with the light
Infantry & the advance Troops of the Army. That
I heard him spoken of as an officer of great
fortitude & examplary bravery, & that on some
occasions he was supposed to render singular
service to the cause. And also that on many of
the excursions in which he served, he frequently
endured great hardships, privations, severe exposure,
& almost intolerable fatigues. I further depose
That I have been acquainted with him since the
close of that war to the present time, & that
he has been for many years, perhaps fifteen or
more, in an infirm & crippled state of body, 
incapable of providing for his own support, & that
of his family probably in some measure owing
to the hardships he endured during the war. In
consequence of this disability the property which
he

Page 33

he formerly possessed has been expended, & that
he is now in a very destitute situation, & can
cannot subsist & maintain his family with any
degree of comfort without public beneficence or
individual Charity
s/ Eben. Elmer

Taken & Subscribed 
Novr 28th 1825
Before me
S/ James Clark J.P.
11

I Ebenezer Seeley Clerk of the Court of
Common Pleas of the County of Cumberland 
and State of New Jersey, Do hereby 
certify that James Clark Esq. before
whom the above affidavit of Eben Elmer
was taken, and who has attested the same
was at the time of administering the oath and
attesting thereto, a Judge of said Court of
Common Pleas, and Justice of the Peace in
and for said County, and that full faith
and credit is and ought to be given
to his official proceedings and attestations as such.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto
subscribed my name & affixed
the seal of said Court the twenty
eighth day of November Anno
Domini 1821
s/ Ebenr Seeley Clk

Page 34

Washington July 12th 1822
Honble J.C. Calhoun
Sir,
Letters received from Bridgetown, West
New Jersey, desire me to state to you the services, situation
and circumstances of Almarin Brooks, of that place,
with the hope that his name may be restored to the
pension roll, from which it was stricken in 
consequence of the act of Congress of May 1st 1820
I have prevailed upon myself to address you on
the subject, with the less reluctance, from a conviction
that it is a case of much merit, and one of that
class evidently designed to be embraced by the act of
March 18th 1818.-
Almain Brooks enlisted as a private in
the continental army. I think in the year 1774,
and remained in service till the disbandment of
the troops at the termination of the revolutionary War.
He was during that time engaged in many
skirmishes and battle, was wounded, and for his
bravery and good conduct was commissioned, I
believe in the year 1778, an ensign. I have 
frequently heard officers of the revolutionary army

Page 35

speak in terms of the highest commendation of his
activity, perseverance fidelity, and courage. In the
western expedition of 1794 he held a major's 
command, and remained with the troops who were
stationed in that country six months after the mass
of the militia had been discharged. During our
differences with France in 1778 he was appointed
a captain in one of the regiments raised by the
United States at that time nearly his whole life.
till he become incapable of duty, has been devoted
to the military service of his country.
I have known Mr Brooks and his family
many years. For a long time, perhaps from
for fifteen years last past, he has been so 
constantly afflicted with rheumatic and paralytic
affections, the consequences of exposure in the army,
as to be totally incapable of labour or of contributing
in any manner, to the support of his family. He has
been several years unable to move without the
aid of two crutches. He has been, except during the
time he received a pension, and is now, maintained
by the industry of his aged wife, the voluntary 
contribution of his friends, and a small stipend allowed
him out of the charity fund of the state society
of Cincinnati. His circumstances may in truth

Page 36

be termed so indigent as to require the assistance of
his country for his support
He retains in his possession, and lives in a
small house of the value perhaps of between three
and four hundred dollars, and has old household
furniture to an amount probably somewhat exceeding
one hundred dollars. His debts however, for exceeds
the value of both. The creditors will not probably
disturb the old gentleman in the enjoyment of this
small property, unless for his own benefit. But if
it is necessary for his restoration to the pension list, he
can be divested of it without any fraud, or the lightest
injustice.
Permit me, Sir, to remark, that, if consistent 
with the laws of the land, and compatible
with the usages and regulations of the war department 
on the subject, it is possible to place Almarin
Brooks on the pension roll, it will, in my view,
not only be an act of justice to him, but will be
highly grateful to the feelings of many of the
revolutionary officers, and others who regret to see
the declining years of a man who has done so
much service embittered by decease penny and
neglect, while many in the same neighbourhood

Page 37

who were compelled, by draft, to join the continental
army, when the state was over runby the enemy, and
our regiments reduced to skeletons, who remained
in service but nine months and were in no battle,
experience the bounty of their Country.
Very Respectfully
Your obt Servt
s/ James D. Westcott

Page 38

Almarin Brooks

Page 39

State of New Jersey
Cumberland County Ss.
On this twenty third day of June one thousand
eight hundred and twenty three, personally
appeared in open Court being a court of record
for the said County of Cumberland, and being
so constituted by law, and possessing jurisdiction
unlimited in point of amount Almarin Brooks
resident in said County, aged sixty seven years
who being first duly sworn, according to Law doth
on his oath make the following declaration in
order to obtain the provision made by the acts of
Congress of the 18th of March 1818, the 1st of May
1820, and the 1st of March 1823 that he the
said Almarin Brooks enlisted in the sum men
of 1775 in New Jersey, in the Company commanded
by Capt Richard Howell in the Regiment Co
manded by Col Maxwell in the line of the State of 
New Jersey, and served therein for about sixteen
months, that in the summer of 1777 he again
enlisted and was made a non commissioned
officer in the company commanded by Capt Samuel
Hendry of the 2nd New Jersey Regiment comman
ded by Coll Shreeve, that he was afterwards elected
for a Light Infantry commanded by Capt. Nathan
Bowman, and there continued until appointed
by the reccommendation of his officers, without
his application or knowledge by commission
being dated July 12th 1780, an ensign in the 
company commanded by Captain Wayman in the said
Second Regiment, and continued therein till the
reduction of his Regiment in the winter of 1822,
83 when peace was concluded, was then transfered
to the 1st Regiment commanded by Col
Mathias Ogden, and there continued until the
army was disbanded at Newburgh huts in the
State of New York. that with the exception of

Page 40

few months, when unfit for duty, he was in the
Continental Service, from the summer of 1775
till the disbandment of the army after the war
during which he was in a number of Battles,
and wounded several times, that his name has
been placed on the pension list, and dropt
therefrom on account of his property
And in pursuance of the act of the first
of May 1820, that I was a resident citizen of the
United States on the 18th day of March 1818 and that 
I have not since that time, by gift, sale or in
any manner disposed of my property, or any part
thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it as to
bring myself within the provisions of an act of 
Congress entitled an act to provide for certain persons
engaged in the land and naval service of the
United States in the Revolutionary War passed on
the 18th of March 1818, and that I have not nor has
any person in trust for me, any property or secure
ties, contracts or Debts due to me; nor have I any
income other than that what is contained in the
Schedule hereunto annexed, and by me 
subscribed.
Inventory of all and singular the goods and
Chattles lands and tenements of Almarin Brooks
of the County of Cumberland State of New Jersey
One Mahogany Bureau -- 10.00
Cherry Breakfast table 4 five Desk 2.50 -- 6.50
18 old chairs -- 5.00
2 pair tongs & Shovels 1.50 2 pair Andirous 2.00 -- 3.50
1 Small looking glass 50. A large one 2.50 -- 3.00
Walnut Table 2.50, Rag Carpet 5.00 -- 7.50
Cupboard 4 pine table 50 pine stand 50  tray 50 -- 5.50
Queens ware plates 2 dishes, Wash bowl pitchers -- 2.25
Tea pots, 12 Cups & Saucers Cream pot. Sugar Bowl -- 1.00
1 Doz tea Spoons & pair Shugar tongs -- 2.50
Lot of Glass ware brushes -- 1.25
$47.00

Page 41

$47.00
One stove 10. Knives and forks 1.00 -- 11.00
Lot of pots Kettles bake iron Skillet Sadisons bellows. -- 3.00
Lot of tin and earthen ware -- 2.00
2 tubs dish tub & pail -- 1.00
One old wheel, churn, 4 Jugs -- 75
One Dan John, Lot of Bottles, & old barrels - 1.00
One warming pan & frying pan -- 1.00
Spade, rake pitch fork 2 hoes ax & Wheel barrow -- 3.75
One old lye tub & Soap tub -- 50
One Cow -- 6.00
 -- $77.00
One house and lot containing one acre 
and seventy square rods of land. Mortgaged
for the whole account of the Original
purchase money, none of which is paid

s/ Amarin Brooks

Appraised as above by order of the Court
by us this Seventy first day of June A.D. 1823-
s/ Elias P. Seeley
s/ Hyram Paul

That since the exhibition of my first Schedule
the following changes have been made in
my property - viz:- I house and Lot of
land, therein contained has been sold by
the Sheriff of the County, on execution in favour
of Samuel Tomlinson, on the 19th day of October
1820 and purchased by John Sibley Esquire
for the sum of one hundred and Seven do
lars, and was purchased by me from the said
John Sibley on the 24th of July 1821 for the from
of one hundred and nine Dollars, for which
sum I gave my bond to the said John Libbey
secured by Mortgage on the premises, no part

Page 42

of which purchase money has been paid.
That I am by trade a Taylor, but for
many years have unable to work at it
from infirmity, that my circumstances
and situation are such as to require the
aid of public or private charity for my
Support, and that my family at present
consists of my wife named Sarah aged 56
who the past season has been much afflicted
with sickness and still is infirm and
a coloured girl named Son Louline aged upwards
of thirty, weakly, and capable of but little labour.
s/ Amarin Brooks

Subscribed & sworn in
Open County June 23d
1823
s/ James D Westcott
s/ Eben, Elmer
s/ John Sibley

I Ebenezer Seeley Clerk of the Court of
Common Pleas of the County of Cumberland
State of New Jersey, Do hereby certify, that it
appears to the satisfaction of the Court that 
the said Almarin Brooks did serve in the
Revolutionary war, as stated in the preceding
declaration against the Common enemy
for the term of nine months, under one

Page 43

engagement, on the Continental establishment. 
I also certify that the foregoing oath
and the Schedule thereto annexed, are truly
copied from the records of the said Court.
and I do further certify that it is the opinion
of the said Court, that the total
amount in value of the property exhibited
in the aforesaid Schedule is Seventy
Seven Dollars,
In testimony whereof
I have hereunto set my hand
and affixed the seal of the said
Court, on this twenty third day
of June, one thousand eight
hundred and twenty three
s/ Ebenr Seeley Clk

Page 44

Cumberland County ss.
I John Sibley aged fifty years and upwards a resident
of said County, being duly sworn, do upon my solemn oath say that
on the 19th day of October 1820 I became the purchaser, at Sheriffs sale
of a House and lot of land containing one acre and 70 square perches,
situate in or near the town of Bridgeton, siezed in execution as the
property of Almarin Brooks, that I paid to the said Sheriff the sum of one
hundred and Seven Dollars and became lawfully seized thereof by Deed
dated the 18th day of December 1820, that on the 21st day of July 1821 conveyed
the said house and lot of land to Almarin Brooks, for which I
received his bond for the sum of 10 dollars secured by morgage on the
premises, that the said Almavin Brooks is a relation of my wife, that
he is old, very infirm, and considerably decayed in mind, that he was
very much distressed at of of his property and with the apprehension
of having no place of residence in his old age, that I was induced
to convey him the property solely to allay his feelings and satisfy his
mind, that he has not paid to me any part of the purchase money
and I have no expectation and do not conceive that there is any 
probability that he will ever pay it; and that I view the property as safely
secured to me by the Mortgage of Almarin Brooks as by the original
Deed from the Sheriff, and I do further swear, that the said Almarin
Brooks is in such indigent circumstances, as to be unable to support
himself without the assistance of his friends unless relieved by his
Country
s/ John Sibley

Subscribed and sworn
in open Court June 23d 183
s/ James D. Westcott
s/ Eben Elmer

Page 45

Almarin Brooks

Page 46

State of New Jersey
Cumberland County ss
I Wm P. Fithian Late Sheriff of the County of
Cumberland do hereby certify that a house and
lot of Land containing one acre and seventy square
perches situate in or near Bridgeton formerly
the property of Almarin Brooks was seized in
Execution and sold by me as the property of
said Brooks by virtue of a writ of Fieri Facias
to me directed issued out of the court of Common
pleas of said County, and at the said sale on the
19th day of October 1821 John Sibley Esqr became
the purchaser he being the highest bidder there
for and bidding the sum of one hundred dollars
In Witness whereof I have hereunto
set my hand this 21st day of June 1823

s/ Wm Fithian Late Sheriff

Page 47

I Ebenezer Elmer of the County of Cumberland
in the State of New Jersey, do hereby certify that
I was well acquainted with Almerin Brooks
who has applied to Government for a renewal of his
pensionary warrant, under a late supplement to
the act of Congress "to provide for certain persons engaged
in the Land & Naval service of the United States
in the revolutionary war", and was a witness to
many of the hardships & sufferings which he endured
from the beginning to the end of that eventful
period:- That I have lived near to, & known him
ever since, and that he has been a cripple & infirm
incapable of any efficient labour, for about twenty
years past. - And further, that for several
years he has been in such a destitute situation
that he & his family must have been without
the conveniences of life had they not recieved
the beneficent assistance of others, particularly
from the Society of the Cincinnati of New Jersey
which has been frequently afforded
trust therefore that he is a proper object
for the notice of the Government
s/ Eben Eller
June 24, 1823.

Page 48

Schedule
State of New Jersey
Cumberland County, Inferior Court of Common
Pleas, of the term of September, eighteen
hundred and twenty, on this twentieth day of
October 1820 personally appeared in open Court
being a Court of record for the said County of 
Cumberland Almarin Brooks, aged Sixty four years
resident in Bridgetown in said County, who
being first duly sworn according to law, doth
on his oath, declare, that he served in the 
Revolutionary war as follows, that he enlisted for
one year, in the summer of 1775 in New Jersey,
in Captain Richard Howells company in the 2nd
Regiment commanded by Colonel William Max
well in the New Jersey line, and went to Canada
he returned in ill health to Cumberland County
New Jersey in about sixteen months, and was
paid off by Seth Bowen Lieut in Captain Howells
company, continued unfit for duty for several
months, and in the summer of 1777 enlisted
again for three years or during the war, in
New Jersey with Ensign James Johnson and
was made a noncommissioned officer in Captain
Samuel Hendrys Company in the 2nd Regiment
commanded by Col Shreeve, he believes
he continued in the same company at the times
under the command of different officers, without
recollecting dates until selected for a light
Infantry Company under command of Capt
Nathaniel Bowman, and there continued until
appointed by recommendation of his officers, &
without his application or knowledge, and
Ensign in Captain Abel Wymans Company
in the 2nd Regiment by commission dated 12th

Page 49

July 1780, to take rank from the 17 June 1780
and continued in his company until a reduction of the 
Regiment in the winter of 82-83 when peace was
concluded, was then transfered to the first Regiment
commanded by Col Matthias Ogden in the Jersey
line, and there continued until the army was discharged
at Newburgh huts, near to New Windsor
in the State of New York, that he was in
Several Skirmishes in Abraham Plains and
in Canada in 1766, was in the Battle at Short
Hill, near to Scotch Plains, and was 
wounded in 1777 at Brandywine in 1777, at German
town and wounded in 77, at Monmouth in
1778, at the Battles of New Town, and Chemung
with the Indians under General Sullivan in 79
in two Battle at Springfield in 80. was at
the Seige of York and the Surrender of Corn
Wallis in 1781, and in many skirmishes,
throughout the war, being general with the
light parties in front and on the flanks, to
harrass the Enemy.
That he lost his certificate of pay due
to him in the middle of the Delaware nearly
opposite New Castle, and applied to congress
while sitting in Philadelphia for their renewal
but failed on the supposition that they
might be found by some other person,
That his age is as above specified, that
his wife Sarah is aged fifty four years last
August, who, with a coloured Servant
Give 28 years old and infirm in health.
compose the whole of the family residing
with him, or on whom has my dependance
for support. From the effect of a
Severe punt in his knee and leg he received
at West point, by the blowing of Rocks and
from the rheumatism, he lost the use of his

Page 50

times in 1802, and from 1805 was so helpless
for seven or eight years, as to be unable to stand
walk, or undress himself, his property and
means because almost exhausted, and he
could not possibly have subsisted for twelve
years past, or have prevented his little remaining
property from being sold for the
necessary expences of himself and family
had it not been for the assistance of his
friends, and the Cincinnati Society, he is
still without the use of his limbs, weak.
infirm and unable to walk without two
Supports, and entirely unable to provide
for himself and family.
And I do Solemnly Swear, that I was a
resident Citizen of the United States on
the eighteenth day of March, one thousand
eight hundred and eighteen, and that I
have not since that time by gift, sale
of Roberts or in any manner disposed of my property
or of any part thereof, with intent thereby
so to diminish it as to bring myself within
the provisions of an act of Congress, entitled
an act to provide for certain persons engaged
in the land and naval service of the United States,
in the Revolutionary war, "passed on
the eighteenth day of March 1818, and that 
I have not, nor has any person in trust
for me any property, or securities contracts
or Debts due to me, nor have I any income
other than what is contained in the schedule
hereto annexed, and by me subscribed

Inventory of all and singular the goods

Page 51

and chattles, lands and tenements of Almarin
Brooks of the County of Cumberland in the
State of New Jersey Viz:

a Mahogany Bureau -- Dollars -- 10.00
Cherry breakfast table. 4.00. Pine Desk 3.00 -- 7.00
18 Chairs old -- 5.40
2 pair tongs & Shovel 2.00 2 pair Andirons 3.00 -- 5.00
1 Small Looking glass 50 a large one 3.00 -- 3.50
1 Walnut Table 3.00- Rug Carpet 8.00 -- 11.00
Cupboard 4.00 Pine table 50 pine stand 50 tray 75 -- 5.75
Queens ware plates - 2 dishes. 1 Wash bowl, & 2 Pitchers -- 1.75
2 tea pots-17 Cups & Saucers, Cream pot, Sugar bowl -- 1.50
1 Doz. tea Spoons & pair Sugar tongs -- 3.00
Lot Glass Ware 1.25, Brushes 75 -- 2.00
1 Stove 12.00 15 knives & forks 1.00 -- 13.00
Lot pots, kettles bake iron, Skillet, Sad Irons -- 3.50
Lot tin ware and Earthen ware -- 300
2 Tubs, dish tub & pail -- 1.50
1 old wheel, churn & 4 Judge -- 1.00
1 [illegible] John 14 Bottles. 3 old barrels. -- 1.50
1 Warming pan & frying pan -- 1.50
Spade, rake, pitchfork 2 hoes, axe & whellbarrow -- 4.75
1 old lye tub & foot tub -- 50
1 Cow 8.00 - one pig 1.00 - 9.00
$95.15

The whole of the above house hold furniture is
more than Twenty years old.

Appraised as above. By order of the
by us this twentieth day of October 1820
s/ Wm Potter
s/ Elias P Seeley

And I do further swear that to the

Page 52

best of my recollection and belief, my declaration
on oath to obtain a pension was
made on the eighteenth day of March 
Eighteen hundred and eighteen, and my  
pension certificate is dated the 30th day of March
1818. numbered 12.
s/ Almarin Brooks

Sworn to and declared on the
20th day of October 1820.
in open Court, being a Special
adjourned Session of September
Term 1820.
s/ James Clark

The Court are of opinion that the total
amount in value of the property exhibited
in the aforesaid Schedule is Ninety five dollars
and fifteen cents.
s/ James Clark

Cumberland County Ss
Ebenezer Seeley, Clerk of the Inferior Court
of Common Pleas of said County do hereby certify
that the said Court is a Court of record, being
to constituted by law, having a Jurisdiction in
limited in point of amount, and possessing the
power of fine and imprisonment, and I do further
certify, that the foregoing oath and the
Schedule hereto annexed, are truly copied
from the record of the said Court; and that
it is the opinion of the said Court that the
total amount in value of the property
exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule is ninety

Page 53

five Dollars and fifteen cents. In Testimony 
whereof, I have hereunto
set my hand and affixed the seal
of the said Court, on this twentieth
day of October, 1820.-
s/ Ebenr Seeley Clk

s/ Almarin Brooks

s/ Hon E. Bateman

Page 54

Almarin Brooks of Bridgeton in the County
of Cumberland and State of New Jersey, on the
twenty first day of July AD Eighteen hundred
and twenty one for the better securing the
payment of the sum of one hundred and nine
Dollars on or before the twenty first day of July
Eighteen hundred and twenty two with
lawful interest for the same, as in and by
the condition of a certain obligation
bearing even date herewith will fully appear
Did Mortgage unto John Lilley his heirs and
assigns. All that certain house and Lot
of land situate in Bridgeton in the township
of Hopewell and on the west side of
Cohansey Creek, and bounded as follows,
Beginning at a corner of Hannah Leake
land on the South side of vine Street, thence
bounding thereon south twenty degrees west
ten rods to a corner of Hannah Lakes Court
South Seventy degrees east about twenty thence
rods to Cohansey Creek at low water mark
thence up the same and bounding thereon
at low water mark on a straight line about
ten rods to a corner thence running north
Seventy degrees west and bounding on the
aforesaid in Street to the place of Beginning
containing one acre and seventy square
rods of land be the same more or less.
which lot of land the said John Lilly has
this day conveyed to the said Almarin Brooks
acknowledged before Elias P. Seeley, Commissioner
July 27th 1821. 
Received and Recorded July 24, 1821

s/ Ebenezer Seeley Clerk of the County
of Cumberland, State of New Jersey

Page 55

do hereby certify the foregoing to be a true
Copy from the record of Mortgages in my
office. In Testimony whereof I have here
unto subscribed my name and affixed
my Seal of office the twenty
first day of June one thousand
Eight hundred and twenty
three.
s/ Ebenr Seeley Clk


Copy of Mortgage
Almarin Brooks
To
John Sibley

Page 56

Copy of Deed
John Sibley & wife
to
Almarin Brooks

Page 57

This Indenture made the twenty first day
of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and twenty one, Between John Sibley
and Sarah his wife of Hopewell Township County
of Cumberland and State of New Jersey, of the
one part and Almarin Brooks of the same place
of the other part. Witnesseth, that the said party
of the first part for and in consideration of
the sum of one hundred and nine dollars,
lawful money will and truly paid by the said
party of the second part, to the said party of
the first part, at and before the ensealing and
delivery of these presents the receipt whereof is
hereby acknowledged have granted bargained
sold aliened enfeoffed and conveyed, and by these
presents do grant bargain sell alien enfeoff and
convey unto the said party of the second part and 
to his heirs and assigns, all that certain
house and lot of land situate in Bridgeton
in the township of Hopewell, on the west side
of Cohansey Creek, and is bounded as follows
Beginning at a corner of Hannah Leake's land
on the South side of King Street, thence bounding
thereon south twenty degrees west ten rods
to a corner of Hannah Leakes land thence South
Seventy degrees east about twenty three rods to 
Cohansey Creek, at low water mark, thence
up the same and bounding thereon at Lou
water mark on a straight line about ten
rods to a corner thence running north seventy
degrees west, and bounding on the aforesaid
vine Street to the place of Beginning contain 
ing one acre and seventy square rods of land

Page 58

be the same more or less which said land
the said John Sibley became seized of by
need from Wm R. Festhian Sheriff of Cumberland
County bearing date the Eighteenth day of December 
Eighteen hundred and twenty, which lot
was said by said Sheriff as the property of said
Almarin Brooks together with all and singular 
the buildings improvements rights liberties
previledges, hereditaments and appurtenances
to the same belonging or in any wise
pertaining, and the reversion and [illegible]
remainder and remainders rents issues and
profits thereof and of every part and parcel
thereof; and also all the estate right title
interest property possession claim and demand
whatsoever both in law and equity of the
said party of the first part, of in and to the
said premises with the appurtenances. To
have and to hold the said premises, with
all and singular the appurtenances unto
the said party of the second part his heirs
and assigns, to the only proper use benefit
and behoof of the said party of the second part
his heirs and assigns forever. And the said party
of the first part for them selves their heirs 
executors and administrators, do hereby covenant grant
and agree to and with the said party of the
second part his heirs and assigns, that they
have not suffered any act or thing whereby
the premises aforesaid are encumbered in
title, that the same is conveyed to the party
of the second part, as freely and clearly as it 
was vested in the party of the first part, and
the said party of the first part, convey the said
premises, with all and singular the appurtenances

Page 59

unto the said party of the second part his heirs
and assigns against the lawful claim and
demand of all persons claiming the same
under the will warrant and forever deferred
by these presents. In Witness whereof
the said party of the first part have herein
to set their hands and seals the day & year
above written.
s/ John Sibley
s/ Sarah Sibley

Sealed and Delivered
In the presence of
s/ Elias P. Seeley

Enclosed

State of New Jersey Cumberland County Ss:
Be it known that on the twenty first day of 
July in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight
hundred and twenty one, Before me Elias P. Seeley, one of the
Commissioners for taking the acknowledgment
and proof of Deeds in said County personally appeared
John Sibley and Sarah his wife who
being well known to me I am satisfied they
are the same within named Grantors and I having
first made known to them the contents of said deed
they did acknowledge that they signed sealed and
Delivered the said Indenture as their voluntary
act and deed for the use and purposes therein
expressed, the said Sarah being by one privately examined
seperate and apart from her said husband
did acknowledge that the signed sealed and
Delivered the said Indenture as her own free & voluntary
act and deed for the use & purposes therein
pressed & not from any fear threat or compulsion from her
husband.
s/ Elias P. Seeley
Recorded July 24th 1821

Page 60

I Ebenezer Seeley Clerk of the Court of Common
Pleas of the County of Cumberland, State of New Jersey,
Do hereby certify the foregoing to be a
true copy from the record of Deeds in my 
office. In testimony whereof I have hereunto
set my name and affixed the seal of said
County the fourteenth day of May
in the year of our Lord, one thousand 
eight hundred and twenty three
s/ Ebenr. Seeley Clk

Page 61


Hon. John C. Calhoun
Secretary of War
Washington

Page 62


Bridgeton West New Jersey
March 8. 1823.
Sir,
Being informed of the passage of an
act of Congress by which the Secretary of War
is empowered to restore my name to the pension
roll, but not fully apprized of the precise nature
of its provisions, and uncertain what regulations
may be prescribed by the War Department for
Applicants to pursue. I have in consequence
of the advice of the member of Congress from this
district (D. Bateman) taken the liberty of calling
your attention to my application and schedule
forwarded to the War Department, and bearing
the date the 20th day of October 1820, and now
enclose a certificate of the Judges of the Court of
Common Pleas of this County, of the continuance
of my necessity, for the Public County, I hope
it may prove sufficient to procure my 
restoration to the Pension list.
Very Respectfully
Your Obt Servt
s/ Almarin Brooks

J. C. Calhoun
Sectr. of War


P. S. Please to direct the answer to this Letter to Elias P. Seeley
Bridgeton West New Jersey

Page 63

P.S. I have also enclosed a copy of my application
and schedule as refered to in the certificate of
the Judges, being uncertain whether a copy of
the original was retained in your office or
returned again to me, but I rather concluded it was
forwarded to me. [initials] A.B.

Page 64

State of New Jersey
Cumberland County
March 8th 1823-

The undersigned Judges of the Court of Common
Pleas of the County of Cumberland and
State aforesaid, hereby certify that Major
Almarin Brooks is in very indigent circumstances.
is incapable of labour, being
unable to walk without assistance, and
needs the aid of his country for support;
that we believe he served in the Continental
army from the commencement to the
end of the Revolutionary War; and that
his property has not increased nor his
circumstances in any way improved,
since the date of his last Schedule forwarded
to the Department of War Dated
October 20th 1820.
s/ James Clark
s/ James D. Westcott
s/ John Sibley

I Ebenr. Seeley Clerk of the County of
Cumberland, Do hereby certify that James
Clark James D Westcott and John Sibley
are Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of

Page 65

the said County, duly commissioned & Sworn and
that full faith and credit is and ought to be given
to all their official acts as such and that the
presence.

Subscribed to the foregoing certificate in my
presence. In testimony whereof I have
hereunto subscribed my name and
affixed my seal of office the eighth
day of March, one thousand eight hundred
and Twenty Three,
s/ Ebenr. Seeley Clk

Page 66

Honble. John C. Calhoun
Secretary of War

Page 67

Strother's hotel July 12th 1822
Honble J.C. Calhoun
Sir,
I last evening again recd. letters
from N Jersey urging me to represent the case
of Almarin Brook to you. The receipt lately
of domestic intelligence of an afflicting nature
has prevented my going out for some days past
except when necessity needed it indispensible.
I called at the office this morning with the 
intention of personally delivering the enclosed
but finding you engaged I [illegible] the liberty of
sending it with the expectation of 
a hope that you will review the case of Brooks
and find it of such a character as to induce a
favorable decision.
Very Respectfully
Your ob. Ser.
s/ James D Westcott

Page 68

J.L. Edwards Esqr

Page 69

Bridgetown July 12th 1823
J. L. Edwards Esq
Sir, 
The accompanying case of Major 
Almarin Brooks is one of great merit. If it should
not come so precisely within the letter of the regulating
prescribed by the war department, as to authorise you
to restore his name to the Pension roll, your having
the goodness to submit it to the special consideration
of the Secretary will oblige any of your Major
Brook's friend, as well as.
Your Ob. Ser.
s/ James D. Westcott

Page 70

Wm Florence M. 84
Sarah s. '20
18 Mo.
[illegible] 148 Cont/
Wm McClannahan
Wit Buford Ref.

Page 71

New Jersey
Almarin Brooks,
served from '75 to '80 as a
Private, & from '80 to '83, as an Officer
------
1st Schedule, dated June 1820.
Real Estate.
House & ½ acres of Land
Restore      $300.00
a Cow, Pig & furniture  99.65
Total   $399.65 

The Court certify (in June 1820) that
Mr Brooks, for several years previous
to the receipt of his pension was in 
such a crippled state, & so totally unable 
to do any thing for the support of himself,
and family, as to render the assistance
of his friends & charitable institutions
necessary
------
Last Schedule dated 23rd
June 1823
------
above & a few articles of furniture
valued at $77.00
for the exhibition of first
Schedule the following changes
have been made in his property viz ---
 House & Land has been [illegible]
on Execution in favor of S. Tomlinson
on the 19th October 1820, and
purchased by John Sibley for

Page 72

Sum of $107, and was
purchased by Brooks from
the said Sibley, on the 21st
of July 1821, for 109, for
which sum Brooks gave his
Bond to Sibley, secured by
Mortgage on the premises
no part of which purchase
money has been paid.
----
Duly authenticated Copies
of all the Instruments mentioned
above, are within.
-----
His age 67. By trade a Tailor
unable to work-- Wife age
56, rather infirm & a coloured
girl, above 30 yrs of age, weakly
and capable of but little work,
compose the family.
---
James D Westcott
Bridgetown
New Jersey
to J. Brown May 10, 37

Page 73

Almarin Brooks, of
N. Jersey- J.D. Westcott,
Esqr agent - served from 1775
to 1780 as a private & non-commissioned
officer, and from 1780
to 1783 as a commissioned officer -
Age, 64 years - wife, 53-a
Coured girl aged 28 - His property
consists of furniture to the amount
of $99. and he has a house and lot ┃
of 1 1/2 acre, valued at $300 - Mr
Westcott States, that for a long
time past, perhaps 15 years, Mr B
has been so constantly afflicted
with rheumatism and paralytic
infections, as to be totally incapable
of labor, or of contributing in any
manner to the support of his family
has been for several years unable
to move without the aid of crutches
has been, except during the time
he received a pension, and is now,
maintained by the industry of his
aged wife, the voluntary contributions
of his friends, and a small
stipend allowed him out of the
charity fund of the Cincinnati
Society-
(This has been rejected three times,
Rejected (the 4th time) July 16.
1822. See letter to J. D. Westcott

Page 74

Regulations sent 
14 Apr 1823

Bridgetown
Cumb Cy N.J.

[there is a considerable amount of text that is washed out, but looks like a detailed amount of household items totaling to around $399.60 ]

Page 75

Almarin Brooks
12
30 March 1818
Not entitled
39.9.65

Page 76

Schedule
State of New Jersey.
Cumberland County ss Inferior Court of Common 
Pleas of the term of June eighteen hundred
and Twenty.
On this twenty second day of June
in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and twenty, personally appeared in open Court, being
Court of Record for the said County, Almarin
Brooks aged Sixty four years, the sixth
day of February 1820 - resident in Bridgeton
in said County who being first duly sworn, according
to law doth, on his oath, declare, that he
served in the Revolutionary war as follows;
that he enlisted for one year in the summer of
1775 in New Jersey, in Captain Richard Howells
Company in the 2nd Regiment commanded by
Col William Maxwell in the New Jersey line
and went to Canada, he returned in ill health
to Cumberland County New Jersey, in about 
sixteen months, and was paid off by Seth Bowen
Lieut in Captain Howells Company, continued
unfit for duty several months, and in the 
summer of 1777 enlisted again for three years
or during the war in New Jersey with ensign
James Johnson and was made a non commissioned 
officer in Capt Samuel Hendry's Company
in the second regiment Col Shreeve - He
believes he continued in the same Company
altho at times under the command of 
different officers, without recollecting dates, until
Selected for Light infantry Company 
under Command of Nathaniel Bowman, and
there continued until appointed by recommendation

Page 77

of his officers, and without his application or knowledge
an ensign in Capt Abel Weymans Company
in the 2nd Regiment by Commission
dated the 12th day of July AD 1780, to take
rank from the 17th day of June 1780, and continued
in his company until a reduction of
the Regiment in the winter of 1782, 1783 when
peace was concluded, that he was then
transfered to the 1st Regiment Col Mathias
Ogden in the Jersey line and there continued
until the army was discharged at Newburgh
huts, near to New Windsor in the State of
New York - that he was in several in
skirmishes in Abrahams Plains, and in Canada
in 76 was in the Battle at Aront Hills near
to Scotch Plains, and was wounded in the
year 1777 at Brandywine in 1777, at 
Germantown and wounded in 1777 at Monmouth
in 1778. at the Battles of Newtown and
Chemung with the Indians under General
Sullivan in 1779 in two Battles at Springfield 
in 1780 - and was at the Seige of York
and the Surrender of Cornwallis in the year
1781, and that he was in many skirmishes
throughout the war being generally with
the light parties in front, and on the flanks
to harrass the enemy. He lost his certificate
of pay due to him, in the middle of the Deleware
nearly opposite New Castle, and applied
to Congress while sitting in Philadelphia for their
renewal, but failed, on the supposition that they
might be found by some other person. that
he is aged Sixty four years last February, his wife
Sarah aged 53 years last August, who with a

Page 78

Coloured Servant Girl Twenty eight years
old, and of infirm health, compose the whole
of the family residing with him, or on whom he
has any dependance for support.- From the effect
of a severe hurt in his knee and Leg at West point
by the blowing of rocks, and from the Rheumatism
he lost the use of his limbs in 1802, and from
1805 was so helpless for seven or eight years as to
be unable to stand walk or undress himself, 
His property and means became almost
exhausted, and he could not possibly have
enlisted for twelve years past, or have prevented
his little remaining property from
being sold for the necessary expenses of himself 
and family, had it not been for the assistance
of his friends, and of the Cincinnati
Society, he is still without the use of his limbs,
weak, infirm, and unable to walk with
out the use of two supports, and
is entirely unable to provide for himself and
family.
-
And I do solemnly swear that I was
resident Citizen of the United States on
the eighteenth day of March one thousand
eight hundred and eighteen, that I have
not since that time by gift, sale, or in any
manner dispose of my property or of any
part thereof, with Intent thereby so to diminish 
it as to bring myself within the provisions
of an act of Congress entitled
act to provide for certain persons engaged
in the land and naval service of the United
States in the Revolutionary war"
Passed on the 18th day of March 1818, and that

Page 79

I have not nor has any person in trust
for me any property, or securities, contracts
or debts due to me nor have I any income
other than what is contained in the Schedule
hereto annexed, and by me Subscribed.

Inventory of all and singular the goods
and Chattles Lands and tenements of
Almarin Brooks of the County of Cumberland, 
in the State of New Jersey Viz:
A Mahogany Bureau-Dollars -- 10.00
Cherry Breakfast table 4.00 Pine Desk  3 -- 7.00
18 old chairs -- 5.40
2 Pair tongs & Shovel $2. 2 pair andirons 3 -- 5.00
Small Looking Glass $50 ct.. Larger one $3.00 -- 3.50
Walnut Table $3.00. Rag Carpet $8.00 -- 11.00
Cupboard $4.00 Pine table 50. Pine stand 50 - Tray -75 -- 5.75
Cherry Bureau $2.00 2 pine chests & 1 pine table 200 -- 4.00
Queensware plates 2 dishes 1 Wash bowl & 2 Pitchers -- 1.75
2 tea pots-17 Cups & saucers. Cream pot & Sugar Bowl -- 1.50
1 Doz tea Spoons and pair Sugar tongs -- 3.00
Lot of Glass ware 1.25, Brushes 75 -- 2.00
1 Stove $12 - 15 knives and forks $1 -- 13.00
Lot of Potts,, Kettles Bake Iron, Skillet, and Irons Bellows -- 3.50
Lot of tin ware, and earthen ware -- 3.00
2 Tubs, dish tub & pail -- 1.50
1 Old wheel, Churn & 4 Jugs -- 1.00
1 Dan John 14 Bottles 3 old Barrels -- 1.50
1 Warming pan & frying pan -- 1.30
Spade, rake, pitchfork. 2 hoes-- axe & wheelbarrow -- 4.75
1 old Lye tub and Soap tub -- 1.00
1 Cow $8. 1 Small pig $1.00 --9.00
House & lot of about one half acres of land 300.00
Dollars --- $399.65

Page 80

Excepting a rag Carpet made in the family,
and the necessary supply of Common ware & apparel,
the whole of the above furniture is
more than twenty years old.
Appraised as above by order of the Court
by us the 3d day of June 1820 -
s/ Chas L. Seeley
s/ William Potter -

And I do further swear that to the best of
my knowledge, recollection and belief, my declaration
on oath to obtain a pension was made
on the 18th day of March 1818 and my pension
Certificate is dated March 30th 1818 numbered
12 -
s/ Almarin Brooks

Subscribed & Sworn
in open Court June
22d 1818.
s/ James Clark

The Court are of opinion that the total
amount in value of the property exhibited in
the aforesaid Schedule is three hundred and
ninety nine Dollars and sixty five cents
s/ James Clark

The Court direct the Clerk further to
certify, that to the personal knowledge of the
members thereof, the declarant Almarin
Brooks for Several years previous to the receipt
of his pension from the United States was in

Page 81

such a crippled state and so totally unable to
do any thing for the support of himself and
family as to render the assistance of his
friends and of charitable institutions necessary,
and that his situation is still such, that if
his pension is withheld he will be again 
under the necessity of depending upon private or
public aid for support.
s/ James Clark


Cumberland County ss
I Ebenezer Seeley Clerk of the Inferior
Court of Common Pleas of said County
hereby certify, that the said Court is a Court of
record being so constituted by law having a
jurisdiction unlimited in point of amount and
possessing the power of fine & imprisonment
and I further certify that the foregoing
oath, and the Schedule hereto annexed are
truly copied from the record of the said Court
and that it is the opinion of the said Court
that the total amount in value of the property
exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule
is three hundred ninety five Dollars sixty
five cents. In testimony whereof I have
the seal of the said County, on this
twenty fourth day of June eighteen
hundred twenty.
s/ Eben. Seeley Clk

Page 82

I Ebenezer Seeley Clerk of the County afore
said By the Direction of the Court, Do hereby
further certify that to the personal knowledge
of the Court, the declarant Almanin Brooks
for several years previous to the receipts of his
pension from the United States was in such
Crippled State, and so totally unable to
do any thing for the support of himself and
family as to render the assistance of his
friends and of charitable institutions necessary
and that his situation is still such
that if his pension is withheld he will
be again under the necessity of depending
upon private or public aid for support.
The testimony whereof I have here 
unto subscribed my name and
affixed the seal of said Court this
twenty fourth day of June A.D. 1820.
s/ Ebenr. Seeley Clk

Page 83

Copy of Deed
William R Fithian
Sheriff of Cumberland
To
John Sibley

Page 84

This Indenture made the eighteenth day of December
in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and twenty Between William R Fithian high sheriff
of Cumberland and in the State of New Jersey of
the one part and John Sibley of Bridgeton of the
other part Whereas Samuel Tomlinson Lately in the
Inferior Court of Common Pleas holden at Bridgeton
in and for the County of Cumberland in the
Term of June in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and twenty did recover against-
Almarine Brooks of Bridgeton one hundred and
Seventy Dollars and eighty cents debt and also the
sum of three Dollars for his damages which he had
sustained as well by occasion of the detention of that
Debt as for his costs and charges by him about
his suit in that behalf expended as by the Record
of the said Judgment in the Clerks Office will fully
appear and whereas a certain writ of the State aforesaid
called a fire facias issued out of the
said Court above mentioned of the term aforesaid
to the high sheriff of the County directed by which
said writ the said high Sheriff was commanded 
that of the Goods and Chattles of the said Almarine
Brooks in this Bailwick he should cause to be made
the debt and damages aforesaid and if Sufficient
goods and Chattles of the said Almarine Brooks Could
not be found in his County whereof he could cause
to be made the debt and damages aforesaid that
them he should cause the whole of the residue as
the case might require of the debt and damages
aforesaid to be made of the lands tenaments here
ditaments and real estate whereof the said Almarine
Brooks should be seized on the Sixteenth day
of August in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and twenty in whose hands soever
the same might then be and that he should have 
those monies before the Judges of the said Court
on the fourth Tuesday of September then next 
evening to render unto the said Samuel Tomlinson
for his Debt and damages aforesaid and whereas
the said Almarine Brooks by virtue of Diverse good 
Conveyances and assurances in the Law was rightful 
and Lawfully seized in his demise as of fee of and

Page 85

and in a certain house and lot of Land Situate
in Bridgeton in the Township of Hopewell and
Bounded as follows, Beginning, at a corner
of Hannah Leaks land on the South Side of vine
street thence bounding thereon south twenty degrees
west ten Rods to a Corner of Hannah Leaks
and thence South Seventy Degrees East about twenty
three Rods to Chansey Creek at low water mark
thence up the same and bounding thereon at Low
water mark on a strait line about ten Rods to
a Corner thence running north seventy degrees
west and bounding on the aforesaid Vine Street
to the place of Beginning. Containing one acre
and Seventy square perches of land. The Lane
more or less which said land the said Almarine
Boorks thought of Michael Kehler by Deed
Dated the third day of June one thousand eight
hundred and five reference being thereunto had
it will more fully and at large appear, and
whereas the said William Withian high sheriff
of the County of Cumberland aforesaid by virtue
of the aforesaid writ, and for want of sufficient
goods and Chattles of the said Almarine Brooks
whereon the long the same did seize and take
into execution the above described lot of Land
and premises together with all the estate right
title Interest properly possession claim and Demand
of him the said Almarine Brooks of in and to the same
and whereas the said William R Fithian
haven so taken the said premises in execution
did affix up at five of the most public places
of the said County advertisement one whereof
was affixed up in the township where the said 
premises are situate at least two months before the day
of sale and did also cause an advertisement
to be printed in one of the news papers printed
in this State and circulating most generally
in the neighbourhood of the said premises at
least one month next proceeding the day of sale
sitting fourth that on the nineteenth day of October
Anno Domini eighteen hundred and twenty the
aforesaid Lot of Land and premises would be exposed
to sale and sold to the highest Bidder in order to
Satisfy the debt and damages aforesaid and whereas
the said Lot of Land and premises with the appurten

Page 86

on the day last mentioned were exposed to
public sale at the hotel in Bridgeton when
the aforesaid John Sibley by the mouth of
Elias P Seeley Bidding for the same the sum
of one hundred and Seven Dollars and no person
appearing to bid so much or more the same was
cried of by the Crier of the said vendue by public
Outcry between the hours of twelve and five Oclock
to in the afternoon of the said day at the price afore
said. Now this Indenture Witnesseth that the
said William R Fithian high Sheriff as aforesaid
by virtue of the writ aforesaid and the power
and authority to him therein and thereby given
and for and in consideration of the Sum of
one hundred and seven Dollars to him in hand
paid by the said John Sibley at and before
the unsealing and delivery hereof the Receipt
whereof is hereby acknowledged hath Granted, 
bargained, sold, aliened, enfeoffed, conveyed, 
and confirmed and by these presents doth grant bargain
sell alien enfeoff release Convey and confirm unto
the said John Sibley his heirs and assigns all the 
before mentioned lot of land as above bounded and
described Together with all and Singular
the buildings improvements ways privileges 
encampments and appurtenances whatsoever to the same
belonging or in any wise appurtenances and the
reversion and remainder rents dues and profits
thereof and of every part and parcel thereof and also
all the estate right title Interest property possession
Claim and demand whatsoever of him Almarine
Brooks of in or to the same To have and to hold
the said lot of land as above bounded and described
hereby granted and conveyed or mentioned and
intended so to be with the appurtenances unto the
said John Sibley his heirs and assigns to the only
proper use benefit and behoof of the said John
Sibley his heirs and assigns forever according to
the form force and effect of an act of the General
assembly of the State of New Jersey entitled an
act making lands liable to be sold for the

Page 87

payment of Debts in such Cases made and
provided. In Witness whereof the said William
R Fithian high Sheriff aforesaid hath hereunto
set his hand and seal the day and year first
above written.
s/ Wm R. Fithian Sheriff

Signed Sealed and
delivered In the presence of
s/ Leonard Woodruff

State of the Jersey
Cumberland County, to wit. Be it remembered
that on the nineteenth day of December
in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight 
hundred and twenty personally appeared before me the
Subscriber, one of the Judges of the Court of Common
Pleas in and for said County and State
William R Fithian Esquire high Sheriff of the
County of Cumberland and appeared, and the
grantor of the within Deed, and voluntarily
acknowledged that he signed sealed and
delivered the within Indenture as his own
voluntary act and Deed for the uses and purposes
therein expressed
s/ James D. Westcott

Recorded March 31st
1821.

I Ebenezer Seeley Clerk of the Inferior
Court of Common Pleas of the County of
Cumberland New Jersey Do hereby certify
foregoing to be a true copy from the

Page 88

Record of Deeds in my office. In testimo
my whereof I have hereunto set my hand
and affixed the seal of said Court, the
fourteenth day of May. In the year
of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and twenty three
s/ Eben Seeley Clk