Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 8388, John Bryan, S.C.

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SERVICE |  | NUMBER
S. C. | Bryan, John | W. 8388
 | Lydia |
CONTENTS

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9529
South Carolina
Lydia Bryan de[illegible]
S.C
widow of John Bryan 
who was a pensioner under the Act of [blank space]
and who died on the 10th March 1803
of Charleston in the State of So. Carolina
who was a Leiut P.M in the ~
commanded by Captain [blank space] of the 
Regt commanded by Col Hampton in
the [crossed out] So Carolina [illegible] 17 M 9 ds
Inscribed on the Roll of Charleston
at the rate of 40/ Dollars 66
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day
of March 1836.
payable to her only child John Bryan
Certificate of Pension issued the Sixth day of
August 1845 and sent to P.Cantwell
Charleston, S.C
Total Amount, $2038.30
[Act July 7, 1838.] Recorded by Geo C Ames Clerk,
Book D Vol.1 Page 305

Reputro
See Letter to P Agent
August 7, 1845
Payable to J Bryan only
child

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State of South Carolina 
District of Charleston

Ordinary's office,
Charleston.

I Thomas Lehre Esquire ordinary
for the district of Charleston So. Carolina, Do
hereby certify that m satisfactory evidence
has been adduced to me to prove that,
Mrs Lydia Bryan, the widow of John
Bryan deceased. died on the twenty ninth
day of January Eighteen hundred and forty 
three. aged 86 years, and that she left
but one child to wit. John Bryan
now a resident of said city of Charleston
In testimony whereof I have
hereunto affixed the seal of my office
and subscribed my name at
Charleston So.Ca. this first day of 
November A.D., 1843_
Thomas Lehre
Ordinary L.T.D

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Dear Sir,
I regret very much that in some way quite inexplicable to me, I have mislaid the memorandum which I look of certain particulars respecting Col: Bryan's family Bible.  I much therefore trouble you to let me see the Bible again, unless indeed the paper may be in it - in which case I will thank you to send it to me -- Else I shall expect to see you with the Bible, today, at or before 4 o'clk - or after seven --

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The ms: from the Bible I have under lock & key --
Regretting that I must thus trouble you, I am,
Resply
Paul Lapier
Nov: 1: 1843

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Charleston- S: C: - November 1843
To all whom it may concern:- 
I do hereby certify that the subjoined page of MS was cut out by me, in presence of Patrick Cantwell, on the Evening of the 31st ulto, from a Bible now in possession of Col. Jno Bryans - and the title page of which Bible I read that it was printed in "Cambridge" (Eng.) by "John Archdeacon, 1769," "cum privilgis" - & at the top of said pages I find the name of "Lydia Simons" written with the annexed date of "1776" - Also at the end are numerous records of marriages, births, & deaths, leaving no doubt on my mind that it's the family Bible of the above named Col. Bryan - son of Mrs Lydia Bryan --
(attest)  Paul Lapier
Rector of St Michaels
Church, Charleston

Item.  I do hereby certify that the said Mrs Lydia Bryan died on the 29th of January of this year (1843) and that I being her Pastor, read the Funeral service over her mortal remains, at her house in this City on the 30th of the same month.  She being age 86 yrs & 15 ds --
Nov: 2: 1843  (attest)  Paul Lapier - Rector & -

Edward Simons was Marri [remainder of word covered by ink blot] Lydia Bell, (daughter of Elias & Lydia) by the Revd: Robert Smith the 17th day of October 1771. ---

Edward Bell Simons. son of Edward & Lydia, was born the 3d day of december 1773 & was baptized the 5th day of January following.  by the. . Revd: Robert Purcil, had for his Surity, Miss E. Ball, B. Simons & Mrs Catherine Simons.

Edward Ball Simons, departed this life the 20th day of September 1775.  Aged 1 Year, 9 months & 22 day's & was Enterr'd the day following at Pompion Hill Chappel, Near his Grandfather..

Edward Simons departed this life the 11th day of October 1775 aged 33 Years 2 Months & 22 days & was Enterr'd the day following at Pompion Hill Chappel, by the side of his Father..

John Bryan was married to Lydia Simons by the Reverend Edward Ellington the 2d day of February 1783

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Nov: 2: 1843  (attest)  Paul Lapier - Rector & -

Edward Simons was Marri [remainder of word covered by ink blot] Lydia Bell, (daughter of Elias & Lydia) by the Revd: Robert Smith the 17th day of October 1771. ---

Edward Bell Simons. son of Edward & Lydia, was born the 3d day of december 1773 & was baptized the 5th day of January following.  by the. . Revd: Robert Purcil, had for his Surity, Miss E. Ball, B. Simons & Mrs Catherine Simons.

Edward Ball Simons, departed this life the 20th day of September 1775.  Aged 1 Year, 9 months & 22 day's & was Enterr'd the day following at Pompion Hill Chappel, Near his Grandfather..

Edward Simons departed this life the 11th day of October 1775 aged 33 Years 2 Months & 22 days & was Enterr'd the day following at Pompion Hill Chappel, by the side of his Father..

John Bryan was married to Lydia Simons by the Reverend Edward Ellington the 2d day of February 1783

Elizabeth Bryan, Daughter of John & Lydia was born the 4th day of March 1784, had private baptism the [bland space] day of June 1784 by the Reverend Robert Smith at Brabants..

John Bryan, Son of John & Lydia was born the 18th July 1791 was baptized the 29th August following by the Reverend Robert Smith.

John Bryan departed this life the 10th November 1803 aged 50 years and 11 Months and was Interr'd at Pompion Hill Cappel on Saturday the 12th. --

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Charleston  Octobr 27th 1843
Mr Cantwill
Dr. Sir
Your letter of 26th has just come to hand on the services of Mr. Bryan I can say no thing specific, being in the southern army of the Atlantic for only a few day on express business, until Gen. Greenes March outhwardly your certificates however.  I hope will serve the the purpose of the Heirs of Mrs Bryan -- on the subject of relative rank, I am unacquainted - The army grades, & usages, at the War office (I suppose) as established would settle that matter -- as regards the term subsistance, I cannot revue the claims of Mrs Bryan better than by copying my certificate as given in the case of the Lynchs, which I do at bottom
I am
Dr Sir
yours with regard
William Read

Mr. Canwell

I hereby certify that, "subsistance", in the army of the revolution meant Stores, in addition to portions of Bread & meat & salt, such as Tea, & Coffee & sugar, wine, vinegar pepper, or money in lue thereof.  These Stores were only given to officers in Invalids pay, & varied according to the Law, & regulations of Congress--
Octobr 27th 1843
William Read
Physician & Surgeon in the revolutionary army United States --

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Charleston SoCa  28 October 1843
I hereby certify that the within named William Read is a Revolutionary pensioner on the SoCa Roll as a surgeon & Physician at the rate of Forty dollars p month; and that his signature to the within Certificate is in his usual manner and appears to be genuine
Jno C. Cochran
Pension Agent

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State of South Carolina 
Office of the Court Common Pleas
Charleston District.
I, Daniel Halbeck Esquire Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for Charleston District Do hereby Certify that Joseph P. McCall and David C. Gibson Esqrs and Fr. Lainneau Esq. who have attested the annexed affidavit are Magistrates for Charleston District duly authorized to administer oaths  I further certify to the genuineness of the signatures of said Magistrates.--
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Charleston S.C. this twenty sixth day of Aug. One thousand Eight hundred and forty three.---
Danl. Horlbeck
C.G.S.& C.P.

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State of South Carolina }
District of Charleston }  On this 24th day of August 1843. personally appeared before me John Bryan aged 52 years. a resident of Charleston SoCa who being duly Sworn according to law, Doth on his Oath make the following declaration, in order to be entitled to the benefit of the provision of the act of Congress passed 7" July, 1838., entitled "an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows."  that, he is the son of Lydia Bryan deceased, who was the widow of John Bryan decd. who was a Lieutenant and paymaster with Revolution and served as Deponent believes in Hamptons Regiment South Carolina line.  Deponent says he cannot name the places. nor tell how long he served, but believes he proved during Autoan and in Said line of South Carolina, Deponent says his mother the said Lydia was married to the said John Bryan on the Second of February A.D. Seventeen hundred and eighty three, by the Revd Edward Ellington, Rector of the Episcopal Church of St. James Goose Creek near Charleston So.Ca.  Deponent says his father the said John Bryan died on the 10th November 1803, and that, his Mother the said Lydia Bryan died in Charleston on the Twenty ninth day of January Eighteen hundred and forty three, leaving no Child but Deponent.  Deponent says that, his belief is that his mother the Said Lydia was not married to the said John Bryan prior to his leaving the Service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January Seventeen hundred and ninety four, viz, at the time above Stated, Deponent says that his said mother continued the widow of said John to the time of her death.  Deponent. says that, he spoke frequently to his mother about applying for a pension, but owing to her infirmity and other causes. it was postponed from time to time until she died.  Deponent says that, there is an original 
entry --

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entry or record of the marriage of his father and mother as aforesaid in the family bible now in his possession, which is in the hand writing of his father the said John Bryan, an attested copy of which is herewith annexed with other proof in support of this declaration
John Bryan
Sworn to before me the day and year above Written  I also certify the Credibility of the affiant.
R B Gilchrist
Judge of the United States
for the District of South Carolina

District Clerk's Office
South Carolina District
I, Henry Y Gray, clerk of the District Court of the United States for the said District, do certify that the Honorable Robert B Gilchrist, whose name in his own proper hand-writing is subscribed to the foregoing Jural, is the Judge of the United States for the District of South Carolina.
Witness my hand & Seal of the said District Court this twenty-eighth day of October A.D. 1843.
H Y Gray  D. Clk

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Edward Simons was Married to Lydia Ball, (daughter of Elias & Lydia) by the Revd Robert Smith the 17th day of October 1771.

Edward Ball Simons. son of Edward & Lydia, was born the 3d day of December 1773 & was baptized the 5th day of January following. by the Revd Robert Purcil, had for his Suritys, Misses E. Ball, B. Simons & Mrs Catherine Simons.

Edward Ball Simons, departed this life the 25th day of September 1775. Aged 1 Year, 9 months & 22 days & was Enterred the day following at Pompion Hill Chappel, Near his Grandfather.

Edward Simons departed this life the 11th day of October 1775 aged 33 Years 2 Months & 22 days & was Enterred the day following at Pompion Hill Chappel, by the side of his Father.--

John Bryan was married to Lydia Simons by the Reverend Edward Ellington the 2d day of February 1783.---

Elizabeth Bryan, Daughter of John & Lydia was born the 4th day of March 1784. had private baptism the [bland space] day of June 1784. by the Reverend Robert Smith at Brabants.--

John Bryan, Son of John & Lydia was born the 18th. July 1791. was baptized the 29th August following by the Reverend Robert Smith.---

John Bryan departed this life the 10th November 1803. aged 50 years and 11 Months and was Interred at Pompion Hill Chapel on Saturday the 12th. --

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I hereby certify that, the within is a true copy from the original entries in the family Bible exhibited to me by Colonel John Bryan the Son of Said John and Lydia Bryan.
Daniel C Wagner
Charleston So.Ca.
August 24" 1843.
Sworn to before me same day I also certify the respectability of the Witness
D.C. Gibson,
Magistrate

The United States of America }
District of South Carolina }
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a Court Copy of entries made on the fly leaf of a family bible in the possession of John Bryan Esqr the Petitioner whose name appears subscribed to the petition to which this paper is annexed.
Given under my hand at the City of Charleston in the District as aforesaid this twenty-fourth day of August. A.D. one thousand eight hundred and forty-three.
R B Gilchrist
Judge of the United States
for the District of South Carolina

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State of South Carolina }
District of Charleston }  On this 24th day of August 1843.  Personally appeared before me Roger Pinckney aged 73 years a resident of Charleston So Ca who being duly sworn according to Law Deposeth - That he was well acquanited with John Bryan deceased fomerly an officer in the revolution.  Deponent cannot speak as to his rank or service, but remembers that, up to the time of the revolution he was called Captain Bryan.  Deponent was also well acquainted with his wife, Mrs Lydia Bryan who died in 1843 - 2  previous to her marriage with said John Bryan in 1783, She was a widow Simons. - Deponent Knew her before her marriage and up to the time of her death - Deponent was born in Charleston.  The family of Captain Bryan were among the most respectable.  Deponent has been Shown by Colonel John Bryan.  therefore of said Captain and Lydia Bryan, an entry in the family bible of said Bryans.  It is in the word following, viz. "John Bryan was married to Lydia Simons. by the Reverend Edward Ellington the 2d day of February 1783"--
Deponent says that he often saw the said Captain John Bryan write, that, he Knows his handwriting -- and that the above entry is in the hand writing of said Captain John Bryan. - Deponent

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Deponent says he was not at the Wedding of said John and Lydia Bryan; but he remembers the circumstance of the wedding, and has every reason to believe that, the said marriage took place as set forth in said entry in 1783 - Deponent says that, Mr. John Bryan now of Charleston South Carolina is the only surviving child of said John and Lydia Bryan deceased.  Dept says that, he knows Mrs Mary Holmes of Charleston She is about 85 years of age, and was sister of the first wife of said John Bryan, and sister to the first husband of said Lydia Bryan. viz Edwd Simons
Roger Pinckney _
Sworn to before me the day & year above written I also certify her credibility of the affiant
Jo P McCall
Not. Pub. & Magistrate

I know the affiant Mr Roger Pinckney to be a gentlemen of long standing, & his testimony always worthy of credit.
J C Y Gray
Dist: Clk
Octr 28, 1843

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Comptroller Generals Office.
Columbia  20th April 1843.
Book X }
No 3372}  Issued 18th July 1786 to John Bryan Twenty eight pounds seventeen shillings and one penny half penny sterling for duty done in Roebucks Regiments as audited --
[pound symbol] 28: 17: 1d/2  Sterling. No 334 --

Book C. }
No 475 }  Issued 1st September 1784 to Mr John Bryan for two hundred twenty five pounds Seventeen shillings and ten pence sterling being the amount Pay and Subsistence due him as Lieutenant and Pay Master in Col Hamptons Regiment per Certificate from the auditor General.
[pound symbol] 225. 17 : 10d  Sterling. --

Book B. }
No. 177. }  Issued to John Bryan 24 Feby 1784. for Twelve pounds ten shillings and five pence sterling in lieu of an indent to Mr. J. Simons dated 21t December 1779: No 52, Book B.B,
[pound symbol] 12 : 10 : 5. Sterling -- 

I do hereby certify the above to be true copies from the Records in this office -
W Laval
Comp Genl So Ca

28-17-12
225 17 10

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State of South Carolina }
District of Charleston }  On this 26th day of August, 1843 Personally appeared before Mrs Mary E Holmes aged 84 years a resident of Charleston SoCa who being duly sworn according to law Deposeth that she was well acquainted with the late John Bryan who died in 1803 and with his wife Lydia who died in 1843.  Deponent says that her maiden name was Simons, & that, said Lydia's maiden name was Ball.  that said Lydia was married twice, her first husbands name was Edward Simons, said Edward Simons was brother of Deponent.  Deponent says that she was present at the marriage of said John Bryan to said Lydia Simons.  She remembers the circumstance well  It took place at the house of Benjamin Simons, at his plantation called Middleburg, on the Cooper River, St. Thomas's parish near Charleston.  The ceremony was performed by the Reverend Edward Ellington of the Episcopal Church.  Deponent says that said Benjamin was also a Brother to Deponent, - said Mrs Bryan was very much esteemed - She left but one child, viz, Mr. John Bryan now of Charleston.  Deponent says she has been shown an entry in the family bible which records, that, said marriage took place on the 2d day of February 1783.  Deponent says, she believes the same to be correct, - and that, the said marriage did take place on the sd 2d day of February 1783, - Deponent states that, she cannot state the particulars of the Service of said John Bryan, but always understood that he did serve in the war of the revolution.
Mary E Holmes ~
Sworn to & Subscribed before me the day and year above written,.  I also certify the Credibility of the affiant.
F. Lanneau
Notary Public

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Charleston SoCa
10 Nov 1843
I certify that I have Known the witness Mrs Mary E Holmes ever since I was a boy, and that from her standing in this community full credence may be given to every word she says in relation to the written case.
J E Holmes 
M C

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The State of South Carolina
District of Charleston
Office Court Genl Sessions
& Common Pleas
Charleston Dist.
I Daniel Horlbeck Esquire Clerk of the Court of Common pleas for the District of Charleston, Do hereby certify, that, Edward S. Courteneye and Fisher Gadsden, Esquires are magistrates duly authorised to administer affidavits, and that their signatures to the annexed are genuine. - I further certify that the witnesses Mrses John Cart and Roger Pinckney are Known to me and are entitled to credit.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the Seal of my office at Charleston South Carolina this twenty first day of December A.D. one thousand Eight hundred and forty four, and in the Sixty ninth year of the Independence of the United States of America
Dan. Horlbeck
C.G.S.& C.P.

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State of South Carolina }
District of Charleston }  Personally appeared before me Roger Pinckney a resident of Charleston SoCa who now in the seventy fifth year of his age, who being duly sworn according to law saith, that he was well acquainted with the late John Bryan decd formerly of Charleston, and a planter in St Thomas's parish, and an officer in the Revolutionary army.  Dept says. that, he Knew said John Bryan before the Seige of Charleston in 1780 and afterward. -- Dept was born, and resided in Charleston during the revolutionary War, and was intimate with said Bryan, and with his family -- Dept Knows his history _ Deponent says, that, Said Bryan Served out of the City  - and as he understood under Marrion or some other officer in the low or Middle Country of So Carolina _ Dept always understood as an officer Dept says he was called "Captain Bryan" during the War, and after it.  Deponent has heard said Bryan frequently speak of his Services during said War. -- Deponent. has no doubt on his mind. that, the certificate, shown him in relation to "Lt. and Paymaster" is Bryans Services in Col Hampton Regt. refers to said John Bryan, the father of Col John Bryan of Charleston, because he this Deponent never in all his life to the best of his belief and recollection ever heard that, there was another person in the State of the name of John Bryan, who Served as an officer in the revolutionary army in the militia of South Carolina but the John Bryan with whom Dept was acquainted as above referred to -- Dept con scarcely be mistaken therefore, as to his identity. and every inquiry he Dept has made, increases this conviction that the

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more was but thi one "John Bryan" in the Service as an officer in the militia of SoCa during the Revolutionary War. and that he is the John Bryan with whom Dept was acquainted - Dept says, that the Cotemporaniaus acquaintances of said John Bryan are nearly all deceased, and this Dept Knows of no one with whom he could say sd John Bryan was intimate save himself and a Mr Traman Dease also of Charleston Dept says said John Bryan had a brother long since decd. but his name was not of course John.  Dept saith that said Bryan was connected by marriage with the family of the Balls.  Some of these Balls were Royalists. and Dept remembers. that there was a Coolness or difference between said Balls and said Bryan. arising as Dept heard and believes as well on account of politics as money matters --
Roger Pinckney ~
Sworn to before me this 7th day of September 1844  I also certify the creditability of the Witness --
Fisher Gadsden 
N.P. 7 Q. R.
Charleston District. So Car

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The State of South Carolina }
District of Charleston }  On this 20th Day of Decr A.D 1844 Personally came and appeared before Me Mr. John Cart aged Eighty three Years a resident of Charleston and a revolutionary Soldier.  Who being duly Sworn according to Law Deposeth that, he was in Charleston during a part of the War of the revolution.  Deponent says he remembers & was acquainted with Mr. John Bryan deceased the the father of Colo John Bryan of Charleston, Bryan Senr was a short, stout well built Man, and planted in the neighbourhood of the City.  Deponent cannot remember in what Corps, Bryan Senr served during the Revolutionary War, but Deponent is positive he saw him in uniform as an Officer with epaulet & Sword.  Deponent says he never knew during those times another person of the same name as John Bryan, but the one known as the father of the present John Bryan, nor never heard of any other as being in the Service.
Deponent has distinct recollection of the circumstance of the Marriage of Bryan Senr with a Miss Ball, it was much talked of at the time as being not agreeable to the Balls who were reputed very Wealthy and he not so.  Deponent knows a Mr Roger Pinckney of Charleston he is a respectable gentleman and was as he believes acquainted with Bryan Senr
John Cart
Sworn to before me this 20th of Decr 1844 & Subscribed 
ES Courtenay Notary Public
& Magistrate
I further certify that Mr John Cart who signs the above affidavit has been known to me for many years as a worthy & respectable Citizen & one every way entitled to belief
ES Courteney
Notary Public & Magistrate

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Payment to be made at Charleston S.C. by John C. Cochran Es. Agent for paying pensioners, in the Agency of South Carolina

Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book D Volume 1 Page 305 by Geo. C. Ames  Clerk.

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WAR DEPARTMENT.
Revolutionary Claim.
I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States, of the 7th July 1838 --
Lydia Bryan deceased, widow of John Bryan who was a paymastre & Lieutenant in the revolutionary War, who died on the 9th of January 1840, was entitled to receive a pension at the rate of Four hundred Seven dollars Sixty Six cents, commencing on 4th March 1836 and ending on the 4 March 1841, which will be paid upon the production of the proper vouchers to John Bryan, only surviving child of Lydia Bryan deceased --

Given at the War Office of the United States this Sixth day of August one thousand eight hundred and forty=five
Secretary of War
Examined and Countersigned }
Commissioner of Pensions.

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13 January 1845
Sir
I am directed very respectfuly to solicit the department for a decision in the case of the claim of Col John Bryan of this City for the pension money due his mother Mrs Lydia Bryan decd. as the widow of Lt. and paymaster John Bryan of the revolutionary army of SoCa
I remain Sir
with great impnt
your m obt Servant
P Cantwell

James, L., Edwards, Esquire,
Commissioner of Pensions,
Pension Office,
Washington City.

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Charleston SoCa
3 Novemb 1843
Sir:
I respectfully submit the annexed documents in supporting the claims of John Bryan as the Son of Lydia Bryan. the widow of Lt. John Bryan. an officer of the revolutionary army. for the amount due her at the time of her death on 20 January 1843.  with the additional proof required by your letter of the 18 October, which it is hoped will prove satisfactory.
The certificate of Doctor Read an officer of the revolution explains the word "subsistance" in the Certificate of the Comptroller General of SoCa.  The Commissioner will find the same word in the Certificate produced in the cases of surgeon Edward Lynch. Capt'n Saml Taylor. and Lt Stephen Mazyck of the So Ca roll of pensioners.
The pay of a Lieutenant in the revolution 5 p diem would Show a service of some 2 yrs 9 mo. or one years Service as a Lieut and one as Captain pay master. or it may be would bring the widow within the provisions of the 3d Section of the act of  July 1836. --
If the Commissioner could direct the Caf from Mr Bryans bible containing the family record to be returned it would be exceedingly gratifying to them.
I Remain Sir,
with great respect
your mo obt servant
P. Cantwell

James L Edwards Esquire }
Commission of Pensions }
Washington City - }

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James , L , Edwards  Esquire
Commissioner of Pensions
War Department
Washington . City -

Page 29

Charleston So Ca
21 May 1845
Sir
In relation to the case of Lydia Bryan, and to the evidence required by the department as to the amt of Subsistance, I have humbly to represent that, owing to the want of any entry in relation thereto on the Books of the Comptroller General of the State. - and to the death of Doctor Read -- and to the fact that no officer of the revolution now resides here -- I am unable to procure direct testimony on the point; - and have therefore to have recource to previous decisions of analagous cases. - the documents in relation to which and the papers herein referred to, are on file in the departmt and refer to pensioners on the So. Ca roll ..
The Comptroller General of S.C. gave a certificate for pay and "subsistance" to Surgeon Lynch for [pound symbol] 192 . 18 - 1 3/4, upon which the U.S. issued a pension certificate to his heirs for $240 & an (?)
The case of Captn Saml. Taylor is however more favorable to my Client for it would show 18 months service instead of 14 = for Taylor Case the Certificate of the Compr. Genl. of SoCa gave him [pound symbol] 140 Stg. per an: for 5 years - commute pay - If as has been frequently proved $60 be the pay of a Captain and that [pound symbol] 140 shows but $50 per month. the remainder $10-- would exhibit the value permonth set upon "Subsistance" Hence $10 per month added to the $46.66 /?/3 monthly pay named by the department, would be the devisor to the whole amount paid, and would of course assertain the length of Service for which allowance as Lieutenant and paymaster would be made - and would thereas above that, Mr Bryan served Eighteen months.
I now most respectfully submit

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this case to the favorable consideration of the department and on behalf of Mr Bryan invoke its Justice,
I Remain sir,
with pent., respect,
yours M, obt servant,
P. Cantwell

To --
James. L. Edward Esqu-
Commission of Pensions
Pension Office
Washington D.C_

P.S.  I herewith transmit the letter of Major Hart as evidence of the State of the Books in his former office.  He is long Known to the department by his signatures to numerous certificates issued from the Comptroller General office of S.C_

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July 31 45

Lyd Bryan
SC

Page 32

Charleston S C
28 July 1845
Sir,
In the case of Mrs Lydia Bryan. widow of Lt John Bryan. I am requested to solicit respectfully from this department a decision on the proof submitted in her behalf.
I remain, Sir,
with great respect
your m, obt Servant
P. Cantwell

James L, Edwards Esqr  }
Commission of Pension }
Washington City  }

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James L Edwards - Esquire
Commission of Pensions
Washington City ---

Page 34

17 mo. Lt | 226.66.
"  day Sub. | 170 --
" 9 Dy Sb. | 8 --
-- day Sub. | 3 --
 | 407.66

Page 35

James L Edward Esq. }  Charleston SoCa
Commissioner of Pensions }  4 February 1845
Washington City }

Sir, 

The letter from the Department in the case Lydia Bryan decd requiring it to be assertained, "how much his monthly pay "as Lieutenant and paymaster, which was 46.66/100 p mo. entered into the aggregate of [pound symbol] 225.17.10d Sterling."  I have assertained to be --
682. days, or, 1 year, 10 months, and 17 days}
@ 46 2/3 is  }  [pound symbol] 225.12.00 Stg

The department is aware, that one pound Sterling is equal to [pound symbol] 7- currency of that period,

I find that the Comptroller General of South Carolina calculated the pay of a Lieut. (per the case of Woodberry) at $45 p mo.  Ri do his letter, herewith and,
Apply this rule to the case of Lydia Bryan the widow of John Bryan decd. (the present claimant) and it would show, that 700 days, or 1 year, 11 mos, @ $452 is [pound symbol] 225-00-00
Now if the allowance to Lieutenants in the army of the Revolution was 5. p day, it would show the following result --
2 years, 5 mo,. and 20 days @ 5 p is  [pound symbol] 225..4..4
Respectfully soliciting the proper certificate 
I Remain Sir, with great respect,
your, M, obt, servant,
P. Cantwell

To, James L. Edwards, Esq_}
Commr of Pensions -- }

Page 36

Charleston  September 10th: 1844.
To_ P./ Cantwell Esqr
Sir -- you have asked me to give you my reasons for believing that my Father was an Officer in the American Army during the revolutionary war -- I will do so, and as briefly as possible to be consistent with truth and justice.--
As far back as I can recollect I have heard my mother speak of my father's being an officer during the war, have heard, her relate many circumstances connected with it - and that she was not married to him sooner because he was an Officer in the army and away from Charleston -- that her Brother, Mr Elias Ball was acraaiance with father for some time, and principally because he, father, was in the American Army and, he, Ball, on the British side.  In the year 1807 or 8 - a cousin of mine - Mr. Henry Bryan - arrived from England to settle some mercantile business for his Uncles; Mr Mathew Bryan -, a merchant in Yorkshire England - he the said Henry, resided with my mother as long as he remained in Charleston -- he one day saw a box at My Mother's with the following inscription out or carved upon the top of it "Captain Bryan's Ammunition Chest" -- and, he, the said Henry, asked if his Uncle had been an officer -- My mother replied, yes he was, and served during the war of the Revolution, which made his brother Mathew very angry with him, and when he, the said Mathew, came to this Country some years after the war, he once said to My Husband, suppose I (Mathew) had been here during the War, and in arms for England, and we had met on the battle field, could you have opposed me, your elder Brother -- the reply of my husband was, had you so been, I trust in God we never would have met, but if we had I, should perform my duty as a soldier in the service of my Country -- this reply gave great offence to his brother Mathew -- I was present

Page 37

and heard the conversation between my mother and the said Henry.  I was about twelve years old when my father died.  I remember well to have heard him speak of being in the war, and relating anecdotes about it, one was that he was sent with important dispatches from camp to the commanding officer in Charleston and in passing through St John's Parish, Berkley County he passed the residence of his friend Dr Gough, it was after night and he went to the house to get some refreshment -- he found the family at supper, and while he was seated at the table next to Dr Gough a pistol or gun was discharged through the window in the piazza.  The ball struck Dr G- in the shoulder giving a severe wound, they did not know if it was fired at him or the Doctor -- it was supposed to have been done by some run-away Negro, as none of the enemy or any troops were in the immediate neighbourhood.  A few years before my fathers death he received a letter from his Brother Mathew in England requesting him to send me to England, and he the said Mathew would pay "all the expenses, give me a first rate education, and send me back to Carolina when I was of age, and although he concluded my views were as full of Rebel blood as father's was, yet still as I was the only Son that, he, my said father must give me at his death all his lands and Negroes, and that he the said Mathew would provide for my Sister (my only one) by giving her some thousand pounds, and father did make his Will accordingly -- the early death of my father prevented my going to England -- my Uncle Mathew was a Bachelor -- My uncle Mr John Ball, the Executor of my father's Estate gave me when I was about fifteen years old a pair of Pistols and sword which he said I should value very much as My father had worn them when he was an Officer in the Revolutionary Army.  When I was about sixteen years of age I was sent by my uncle Ball the Excr to Columbia to take some valuable papers of the Estate to Mr Egan a lawyer -- when I was thus

Page 38

General Wade Hampton heard my name called, and immediately came and said -- young man you must be the son of my old friend Bryan for I never knew but one man of the name in the State, did he marry the widow Simons of Charleston -- I told him yes, he took me in his carriage to his house and showed me much attention -- he spoke handsomely of my father, said he was brave &c --, An old man by name of Brown, first name I do not remember, I think he was a German -- kept the ferry over the Congaree River about thirty five miles below Columbia and known as McCordes Ferry -- In the years 1816 - 17 - and 18- I crossed the ferry once in each year, the old man often hearing my name enquired of me particularly who my father was, and upon hearing, he, the said Brown, informed me that he had been a Soldier in my fathers company in the war, called him Captain Bryan he also said that he never knew but one person of the name of Bryan - he also paid me great attention whenever at his house (a public one) on one occasion he was sick, he called his wife to him and charged her to be attentive to me, saying I was the son of his old friend and Captain - The late Mr Joseph Palmer of St John's Berkley told me he, the said Palmer, had served with Marion in the war, and said he knew my father well -- I have often seen the late Col Samuel Warren at my fathers house when I was a boy - he was very critisirrate with father, often heard them speak of the times of the war -- I regret very much that Major Evan Edwards, Col Shulbricks, Genl William Washington, Genl Arnoldus Vanderhorst and in fact every one of my fathers intimate friends except Mr Pinckney and Mr Dars are now dead - Not one of my father blood relations over came to America that I know of except Uncle Mathew and Cousin Henry  They both returned to England and are now dead -- I am fully persuaded that there never was an officer of the name of Bryan in the army in this part of the Country except my father, from the fact that I have over and often asked my Mother and all of my

Page 39

elder friends if they ever heard of the name of Bryan in South Carolina and I have never yet heard of but one - the present Mr Johathan Bryan and his children - as soon as I became a man I called upon the said Jonathan Bryan and made particular enquiry of him to find if we were any way related, and found we were not - he came to Carolina many years after the war -- In fact, Sir, finding my name so perfectly isolated I made at that time and have often since made diligent search to find any of my name, but all in vain -- I have now, Sir, given you my reasons for believing that my Father was an officer in the American Army - and the only one of the name of John Bryan in this part of the Country at any rate -- and permit me to give you my assurance, on my honor, that if I was not fully and conscientiously satisfied that my claim upon the Treasury of my Country under the pension law was perfectly legal and just I should sooner starve than urge it -- 
I am - Sir - most Respectfully - your Obt Svt
John Bryan

Page 40

30. 26.66 />
x 9
3/24000
8.00
30. 10. 9
9
3/9.0
3.

Page 41

[pound symbol] 225. 17-10
20 
4.547
12
5(6) 5421 4 ($9.68 -
504
381
336
414
408
6
Pay as Lieut &amp; Qr marks $46.666
add for Subsistance 10
56.66 pmo
12
$680.00
474 --
day
$680 - 365 - 968 --
17 mo y - &lt;20
6
3/12.0
46.6   4
50
12  
30. 14.  9
9
3.0/12.0
4
14 -
17
98
1 4
[pound symbol] 138 
4.66

138.
4.66
142
410.  120
70.  21
3 /33141
2.66
00
23.33/3
17
103 31
233 35
396 67
7
403. -66
50
12 
30. 14. 9
9
3.0/12.0
4. /

Page 42

ms. #
24.520.17
17
2240
320
/5440 (226
48
04
48
160
144
1600

Page 43

Charleston SoCar
16 Sep 1844
Sir:
I very respectfully represent that your letter in the Case of Mrs Lydia Bryan widow of John Bryan of SoCar, to J. T. Read Esq, dated February, only came to the Knowledge of this Agent by the copy furnished to the Honble Mr Grayson in August.
And I proceeded to obtain the proof annexed as to the point of the "identity" of John Bryan the husband of Lydia, with the Lt and paymaster John Bryan referred to in the certificate of the Comptroller General of So Carolina.
With Regard to the respectability of the witnesses. I beg to state, that, John Bryan is the brother in law of the late Mr. Legare. and is probably known to the Honble Mr Calhoun. and seccured an appointment from President Tyler
Mr Roger Pinckney is the father of Commander Pinckney of the U.S. Army. and on referring to his former affidt the testimony of the Clerk of the federal Court will be found attached. - Should more be required the most ample can be procured. 
May I therefore Sir very respectfully Solicit an early decision on behalf of the claimant,
I Remain Sir,
Most respectfully Your Obt. Servant
P. Cantwell

John L. Edward, Esq. - }
Commission of Pensions }

Page 44

9517
Lydia Bryan.
Decd
S. Carolina 
Act July 7th 38
claimant died Janry 1840
armd.
17 mo 9 dy LL &
pay mt.
$407.66
also Act 3 March & 17 June '44 [this line is lined out]
died 9 January 1843
Not entitled on 
act 3 March 1843
Payable John Bryan only Son
P. Cantwell
Charleston 
S. C.

Page 45

Charleston  SoCa. 26th Augt 1843.
Sir,
Respectfully lay before you the annexed proof in support of the claim of Mr John Bryan to the pension money due his mother Mrs Lydia Bryan decd. as the widow of Lieutenant and paymaster John Bryan decd formerly of the Revolutionary Army.
It may be proper for me to state that the claimant is the brother in law of the late attorney general Mr Legare, as tending to show his credibility as a witness giving testimony before the Commissioner,
I Remain Sir,
very respectfully,
your obedient Servant,
P. Cantwell

James L. Edwards Esquire }
Commissioner of Pensions }
Washington City }

Page 46

Aug 2d 1844

Mr Ames

James L Edwards Esqr
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington

Page 47

Charleston, July 30th, 1844

Sirs:

Would you do me the favor to say whether the claim of Lydia Bryan widow of Lt. John Bryan of the South Carolina line will come within the rules of your Department.  [Unreadable] Bryan being dead her only son [unreadable]:  John Bryan is her representative.

Pardon my troubling you with this letter.  [unreadable] will excuse is when I inform you that the family is [unreadable] and anxious to learn the fate of this application.  It was made, I think, in August 1843.  I am with [unreadable] Your faithful servant, 
[unreadable]  Grayson

Page 48

James L Edward Esq
Comsnr of Pensions,

Charleston S.C.  3, May, 1845,
Sir.
In relation to the claim of Mrs Lydia Bryan, I have the honor to acknowledge the receet of the communication from the department of 28th Ullo requiring to know whether the records of the Comptroller General may not show what was the amount of the monthly "Subsistance". -- that officer is in town, and answers that, they do not.
I have however diligently sought for information, and believe that, the thing is susceptible of a very easy solution.
The certificate of the venerable Dr Reid spoke of "Subsistance", as being in addition to "rations," and as being given only to officers, or invalids.
Twenty cents appears to be the value of a ration. --
Twenty cents would appear to be a fair price for the things called "subsistance" designated by the Doctor. -- 
If 20c or Eleven pence sterling per diem be added to the monthly pay, as fixed by the departmt ($46.66 2/3} -- it would swell it to $52.66 2/3. or "7..6d Sterling per day, apply this to [pound symbol] 225. 17. 10 amt of Certif: Compl Genl, or thus, 602 days service @7/6 p. day. is [pound symbol] 225 = 12
6.
I Respectfully solicit a pension Certificate in this case from the Commissioner and am with great respect, his M. Obt. Servt.
P. Cantwell,

Page 49

Charleston So,Ca,
21 December 1844
Sir.
I herewith respectfully submit the additional testimony required by this department in the case of Lydia Bryan deceased, the widow of John Bryan decd who was an officer in the revolutionary army of South Carolina, and request your decision
I am Sir,
with great respect,
your M. obt. Servant
P. Cantwell.

To James L Edwards Esquire |
Commissioner of Pensions, }
War Department }
Washington City }

Page 50

Charleston So Ca
28 March 1845
Sir:
I am requested to respectfully Solicit you to order a decree in the case of Mrs Lydia Bryan, the widow of Lt. John Bryan of the Revolutionary army.
I Remain Sir
with great respect
Your M obt Servant
P. Cantwell

To
James L Edwards, Esquire
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City

Page 51

Columbia, Novbr 3d /43
William,
The Indent Books simply states that, Indent 317 was issued to John Woodberry for [pound symbol] 67:10. Sterlig pay as first Lieut. in the Militia --
I have transcribed the amt with Woodberrys receipt - JW
The State of So. Carolina
To Jno Woodberry DrO
To Seven Months pay due me as first Lieut: of 210 days @45/ is [pound symbol] 472:10 --
Esserne to [pound symbol] 67: 10 Sterl.g

Received the 23 June 1784 from Commissioners of the Treasury an Indent No 317 Book G for [pound symbol] 67:10 - Sterlg in full satisfactions of the within acct.
John Woodberry --
(210 if not 270 days)
Yrs
James
Au Anne, are about - Little James still continues very Panic

Page 52

Charleston So Ca
3 July 1845
Sir,
I respectfully submit the testimony of Major Lovell of the Revolutionary army. a pensioner on the South Carolina Roll, in the case of Lydia Bryan upon the point of "Subsistance" its amount four months it would Seem from his statement. that it was regarded by the officers as being so much a matter of Course of fair not raising or depressing the understood pro rata pay and therefore did not call for or receive any special notice
I therefore Sir, very respectfully Solicit, on behalf of the Son of Mrs Lydia Bryan, a Certificate for the amount due her, as the widow of Lt. John Bryan of the Revolutionary army
I have the honor to be, Sir
with pentussint, your M. Obt. Servant
P. Cantwell

To
James. L. Edwards Esquire }
Commissioner of Pensions }
War Department }
Washington City }

Page 53

WIDOW, &c.
File No. 8388
Lydia Bryan
Wid
John Bryan
Lieut Rev. War.
Act: July 7" 1838.
Index:-Vol. A, Page 84
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Page 54

9517
Lydia Bryan
Decd
S. C.
Suspended
Let to P. Cantwell May 12th '45
Let to P. Cantwell Oct 18 184'3
" " J T. Read.  Feby 12: 1844
" " Hon W J. Grayson  Augt 7. 1844
" " P. Cantwell Nov 4 th '44
" " Same 21 Jany 1845
" same April 28th 45
Act July 38

Page 55

5 May 1845
Maj Hart - 
Cannot say the 
monthly amount
of Subsistance
Case Bryan

Page 56

Columbia  3rd May 1845 
Dear Sir
Yours of the 3d instant, addressed to me, at the Comptroller General' Office, in this place is now before me; in reply to which, I have to State, that I have no connexion whatever with that office, at present.
I have never seen, either in that office or elsewhere, any document stateing the specific allowance for Supplies, to the officers of different grades, in the army of the Revolution.  Can therefore form no opinion on the subject.
In a variety of Instances, the memorandom, made, in the Margin of the Indent Book, by the officer, issueing the Indent, States, that it was issued on a certain day, to the applicant (naming him) for a certain amount, which amount includes all that was due, as well for Services as Subsistance.--
It appears to me, that this was all that, either were concerned to know at that time -- 
Your very Obt Humb Sert
Ben Hart
Directed to P Cantwell
Charleston

Page 57

St Matthews Ob Dist  July 1st 1845
Mr P. Cantwell
Sir
Your favor of 15th of May, I recd on Saturday last,  from our Post Office, how it got there. I am unable to say, But I can tell you, that it was not on the Thursday previous, as one of our Gentlemen, was there and enquired - particularly for Letters for me, and none there.  It has been at the Post Office at Orangeh, 53, or 4 Days owing to the mistake in the Direction, Orangeburgh, instead of St Matthews Or Dt they keep Letters and Papers there, altho they know it is a mistake in the direction and will not forward to the office they belong to, altho they know it is a mistake.
I have thus explained the Case, that you may not think that an old Soldier has forgot his Duty; I am truly sorry Sir that it is not in my power to furnish you with any information respecting the Case in point for the Benefit of the Son of an old fellow Laborer in that arduous struggle for our Country's Freedoms.  I have no recollection of the item, of Subsistance; this I know.  That all that my Country could afford to a soldier I very cheerfully partook of it, and a sunnt pattern too -- in Closing our Acct with Government we were paid in public Securities, which when put to an audit would not sell for more than two Shillings and Six in a pound in a sacrifice of 17/6 to the Poor Soldier who needed the Cash.
In 1826 the surviving officers of the Revolutionary Army petition'd Congress for some remuneration, for that puripcise, and try placing with petitions, they in their goodness in 1828 granted our request - by paying an Artin their favor, for full pay for Life, from 1826 - and which has been red by them, untill old Time, Vetoed it, this is all I have had to know respecting my military Career -- under the Kindness of my heavenly protector who has bestowed on me the greatist Blessing on Earth, uninterrupted Health, I have been able to enjoy the favor of Governd since 1828 which is some satisfaction for service rendered in time of need - hoping sincerely that you may be able to obtain such information as may fully answer the purpoes of yr request -- 
I have the pleasure of Subscribing 
myself Your friend
James Lovell

Page 58

Pension Agency
Charleston S.C. 3 July 1845
I certify that the within named James Lovell is on the Roll of this agency, as a Revolutionary Pensioner of the U.S. at the rate of 400 dollars p annum, and that his Signature to the within letter appears to be genuine and in usual hand writing -- 
Jno C. Cochran
Pension Agent