Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 27, Thomas Cheeseman, Va. Sea Service

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SERVICE
Va. Sea Service      
Cheeseman, Thomas     
Cheesman
Chisman   
NUMBER R.27                 
Va half pay
CONTENTS

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C [underlined]
Thomas Cheeseman

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At a Court held for York County the 18th day of June in the Year 1838.
On the motion of Wm Tabb who made Oath according to Law and together with Lewis Moreland his Security entered into and acknowledged this bond in the penalty of $5000. conditioned as the Law directs Certificate is granted him for obtaining Letters of administration on the estate of Dr. Thomas Chisman dec'd in due form and the Court Certifies that it appears to its satisfaction that the said Tabb administers on said Dr. Chismans estate for the purpose of obtaining said Chisman half pay for his Services as a Surgeon in the War of the American Revolution

At a court of Quarterly Sessions held for York County the 21st day of March in the year 1838.
The depositions of Thomas Curtis James Kirby Sr. and Samuel Sheild taken in open Court in relation to the heirs of Dr. Thomas Chisman dec'd are in there words. The deposition of Thomas Curtis aged upward of sixty three years taken before the Court of York County the 21st day of May 1838. The deponent being first duly sworn on the holy Evangelists of Almighty God, deposeth & Saith, that he was well acquainted with Dr. Thomas Chisman sometimes called "Cheeseman" formerly of the County of York (and who served as a Surgeon in the War of the American Revolution as this deponent has understood & believes) from his earliest infancy to the time of said Chismans death which happened about 1798 or 1799- This deponent knows that said Dr. Chisman married a near relation of his by Whom he had left an only child named Lucy who married a certain Robert Tabb formerly of the County of York 
That said Tabb and his said wife had left at the time of their death only three children William Robert and Mary Tabb. That Wm & Robert Tabb are now living. That Mary married Lewis Moreland & is dead & left at her death a son Lewis who died at the age of 8 or 9 years That said Lewis Moreland the Father is now living. This deponent from these facts is certain that the said William & Robert Tabb are the only heirs of the said Dr. Thomas Chisman or Cheeseman if the said Lewis Moreland is right of his said dec'd son Lewis the only Child of Mary Tabb sister of said Wm and Robert Tabb should not be so considered. Further the deponent saith not.
Thomas Curtis

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The deposition of James Kirby Sr. of the County of York aged seventy one Years taken before the Court of York County the 21st May 1838. 
The deponent States, that all the important facts stated in foregoing deposition signed by Thomas Curtis in relation to Dr. Thomas Chisman formerly of said County so far as it relates to his only Child Lucy
This marriage with Robert Tabb both of the same County are true.
This depont Knows that Wm Robert & Mary Tabb were the only children of the marriage, that Wm & Robert Tabb are still living_ That Mary was married to Lewis Moreland as stated in Mr Curtis's deposition leaving One child Lewis who died an Infant. That the said Wm & Robt Tabb are the only heirs of said Dr. Thomas Chisman unless the said Lewis Moreland in right of his infant son should be entitled. 
James Kirby Sr. 

The deposition of Samuel Sheild aged fifty two years of the County of York taken before the Court of York County the 21st day of May 1838 to be used as evidence in establishing the heirs of Doctr Thomas Chisman dec? formerly of the County of York. 
The depnt being first sworm on the holy Evangelists of Almighty God deposeth and saith, That he was acquainted with the said Dr. Thomas Chisman from the year 1793. during Part of which year he attended his school as a Scholar until the time of his death. which happened this deponent believes, about 1798 or 1799 in the Town of Hampton and County of Ezth. City. This deponent has understood and believes that he is the same person who served as a surgeon in the war of the American Revolution & whose surname was sometimes spelled "Cheeseman". He further states that the said Dr. Thomas Chisman in the Year 1793 resided within a mile or less of the deponents Father and that passing by his residence to attend his school his only child a daughter called Lucy about his own age was in the habit of accompanying him to her Fathers school. The deponent also states that the said Lucy Chisman who was the only Child left by her Father intermarried with one Robert Tabb both residing in York County shortly after the death of her said Father, and with the said Robert Tabb he was also well acquainted from that time till the time of his death which happened about the Year 1812. The widow of Said Dr. Chisman survived him several Years &

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and after his death married one Richard Garrett [or Garreth] but she has been dead about twenty five years. The said Robert Tabb by his marriage with Lucy Chisman had left at the time of his death Three children William Robert & Mary Tabb of whom William & Robert are still alive. That Mary Tabb married one Lewis Moreland of York County. by whom he had left at the time of his death one child a son called Lewis who survived her several Years & died four or five years ago, probably 8 or 9 years old leaving his Father who is still living. So that the said William & Robert Tabb are the only surviving Grand Children and of course the only heirs of said Dr. Thomas Chisman of the said Lewis Moreland on right of his son Lewis, the only child of Mary the sister of said William & Robert Tabb should not be so Considered, and further the deponent saith not.
Saml. Sheild

I do hereby certify that the above are true Copies from my office Given under my hand & Seal of Office this 6th day of Octobr 1845.
Saml. Sheild CYC
[circular seal affixed to paper with scrap of paper overlaid; markings on seal are illegible]

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Rev. War. 
February 9, 1912.

Mrs. W. H. Stanage, Jr.
823 Glenwood Avenue, Avondale, 
Cincinnati, Ohio.

Madam:
In reply to your undated letter feceived by reference from the War Department on the 31" ultimo, you are advised that from the papers in the clain R. File No. 27, it appears that Dr. Thomas Cheeseman, Cheesman or Chisman of York County, Virginia, served as a Surgeon in the Virginia Navy during the Revolution. He died at Hampton, Virginia, about 1798 or 1799, leaving a widow (name not stated) who married Richard Garrett, and an only child Lucy who married Robert Tabb. He died in 1812 their children were, William, Robert and Mary. Mary married Lewis Moreland. She died leaving a son Lewis who lived to the age of eight or nine years.
Very respectfully,

Commissioner.

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[embossed seal in upper left with overlaid initials "E" and "S"]
[reversed stamp in upper right on other side of paper]

Adj. Gen. War Department of Washington;
In my family records I find a [handwritten in different handwriting: "R. 27"] Captain Thomas Cheesman or Chisman
Am very anxious to know whether he served in the Revolutionary War.
Capt. Thomas Cheesman or Chisman came from York Town York County I think

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[stamped in upper left: "ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE WAR DEPARTMENT. JAN 26 1912" surrounding "1872921"]

[stamped "FEB 2- 1912" with handwritten initials on either side]
[stamped: 
"PENSION 
D
JAN
31
1912
U.S.
OFFICE."]

[stamped: "Received A G.O., JAN 23 1912"]

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because all [crossed out: "the"] my records of the family refer to that place.
Would be more than grateful for any information on the subject. 
Sincerely
Elaine C. Stanage
Mrs W. H. Stanage Jr
#823 Kenwood Ave
Avondale
Cincinnati Oh.

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[left side] 1912 Feby 9 Hist to Mrs
W. H. Stanage Jr. V.L.M.
[right side] 
No. 27
[crossed through] ACT OF JULY 14, 1862.
3062
Dr. Thomas Cheesman
Va Navy
Revolution
Discharged .........., 186 .
11-O 
Hf Pay - Act '32
Received................, 187  .
27

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Dr. Tho. Cheeseman 
Land Bounty
Certificate.

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Executive Department, Richmond May 8th 1838.
The heirs of Thomas Chees[inserted: "e"]man are allowed Land Bounty for his services as a surgeon in the St. Navy for three years.
The Register will issue a Warrant accordingly, if not heretofore drawn
Attest                             David Campbell
Jno B. Richardson
On 20th. May, 1838, Warrants, Nos 8564 for 4500 acres and No. 8.565, for 1500 acres issued to Wm. & Robt. Tabb, the only heirs at law of their mother Lucy, who was Lucy Cheeseman, the Daughter and only heir at law of Surgeon Th. Cheeseman.

A Copy from the Records of the Virginia Land Office 
Teste, S. H. Parker Reg. L. Office

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Certificate of Mr [ilegible].
Henry Buchanan.
B

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House of Reps. Septr 12th 1837.

I cheerfully certify that I have within the last four years seen Mr. Henry Buchanan of York County Va, who was represented to me by his neighbours [neighbors], Col. Thomas Russell & others the most respectable citizens of that part of York, to have been a private in the Revolutionary army, and to be a man of truth and probity. From the character of him described to me by those who know him well and upon whom I would rely, I would not hesitate to believe his statements on oath. 

Henry A. Wise

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Y
Evidence from the Auditors
Office, Richmond, showing that
Dr. Cheeseman returned into the civil
service, before the close of the war
[upside down] Chism

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June 24th 1779–

Thomas Walker esq'r Dr.
Gov'r Warr' to defray his travelling expenses as a Com'n for extending the boundary line between Virg'a Z North Carolina
[bracket] 200_,,_,,



July 13th 1779–

Thomas Chisman (upon Auc't) Dr.
Governors warrant to enable him to attend the Commissioners (as surgeon) appointed for extending the boundary line between Virginia & North Carolina _______  100_,,_,,



Fryday November 10th 1780

Sundry accounts as to Thomas Walker Esq.

312. Boundary Line with Carolina_
for sundry expenses running the line 900. 10. ,,

312. Indian account
for sundry expenses of John Byrd 88. 5. ,

312 Doct. Chisman
for money advanced to purchase a horse 140_,,_,,

312. for money advanced as Commpany 2409_16. ,,

[total] 3538_11. ,,

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Saturday Novem'r 11, 1780.

Boundary Line with No. Carolina Dr. to Dr. Tho's Chism'n
313. For amount of his acc' of pay & expenses as surgeon attending the Virginia Guards that attended Doctor Walker running the Boundary line between North Carolina & Virginia
3808. 8. ,,

Doctor Thomas Chisman Dr.
313 Warrant for Bill of his account. 
3708. 8. ,,


This is to certify that the foregoing are copies from the [illegible] books of this officer, Given under my hand in the Auditors office at Richmond V this 15th Novem'r 1853_
Ro Johnston
Audr of Pub Accts

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cheeseman
papers not in the
Office Sept 1853
The Account with
person take  [illegible]
[illegible] written record.
Case Aug 19 1803
SM

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Washington 19 August 1853
Commission of Pensions
Sir
As atty of the [illegible] of Dr. Thomas Cheeseman I have to ask that the case of said Cheeseman for halfpay under act 5 July 1832 be examined at your convenience.
Very respectfully
your ob st [obedient servant]
Vespasian Ellis

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X
Dr. Thomas Cheeseman

From Richmond, 100.16.53.
Noticed in Examiner's abstract, p. 5-

Chees

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From this test of Mr. Herdersons, it appears that Thomas Cheeseman belonged to the Dragon at the time I suppose the action to have taken place, but it is not shown in what character,

By underscoring any thing in these memoranda, in red ink, of which it may be desirable to obtain official evidence, and returning it to me, such evidence will be procured and forwarded, or–if any new [illegible] is suggested, by adding it; search will be made, and evidence if found, transmitted

14th Nov 1883
J.J.

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Dr. Thomas Cheeseman [underlined]

In the communication from the Pension office, of the 4th Nov, It is said, that he is shown to have been a surgeons mate on the Dragon, 1777 and a witness testifies, that he Cheeseman, was a surgeon on board the Tartar in the Revolutionary war, commanded by Commodore Taylor; that he recollects distinctly the engagement near the capes of Va, in which, Commodore Taylor was wounded; in this engagement, several persons were wounded on board the Patriot, in which witness belonged, and Dr. Cheeseman came on board the Patriot from the Tartar to assist in dressing the wounded in the Patriot—that, from the papers in Commodore Taylors case, it is discovered, that [begin underline] the action took place in 1779, probably June. [end underline]

The Galley then building in Fredericksburg, was on the 2d April 1777, named the Dragon; she was commanded by Capt. Eleazr Callender, who resigned 15 April 1779.—on the 8 June 1779, Captain Markham was ordered to take command and refit her–she was transferred to the Board of Trade the 25. March 1780—Dr. David Brown would appear by sundry entries in the Journal of the Navy board, of 9 Oct'r '77– 25.26&28. August and 17 Decemr '78, to have been the surgeon of that vessel— On the 17 Dec'r '78, leave of absence was granted to him to the last of the month—

The Tartar was commanded by Capt. Richard Taylor, it would seem that she was under the command of Capt. Travis on the 21 Nov '78— On the 8 February 1779 Captain John Surty was ordered to take command of the Tartar during Capt. Travis absence or until further orders— Capt. Richard Taylor has stated

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in a note or certificate, appended to an account against the ship, that the stewards books were lodged, "with the Navy Board, in Novem' 1778, soon after I left the ship Tartar," and "my being wounded and taken from the ship in a manner that I was, & other officers taking chard I never could get" Zr.—
Dr. Justice Livingston was, it seems, attached to the Scorpion in March 1777. and to the Northampton in May Septemr z Decembr 1778– 

On the 29 August 1778, the keeper of the public store was ordered to deliver Dr. Chapin, sundry articles for the use of the Tartar—

On the 3 Septemr 1778– Dr. John Lyon Surgeon to the store, was ordered to deliver the surgeons instruments in his profession to Dr. Chapin for the use of the Tartar.

On the 11 September 1778, it was ordered, that a warrant issue to Capt. Richard Taylor for £10 specie, on [illegible] for the purpose of furnishing himself with necessaries in case of his being taken by the enemy— and on the same day a similar order, in favor of Capt. Eleazer Callender—also a letter of instructions to Captain Richard Taylor to make a cruize [cruise].

On the 27 October 1778, It was ordered that Dr. Jno Chapin, have leave of absence from his duty on board the ship Tartar, for the space of two months.

On the 27 Jany 1779, ordered that Mr. Goodson deliver Dr. Reynolds sundry articles for the use of the sick on board the Tartar.

On the 13 Feby 1779– Dr. Livingston had an order to receive a medicine chart and medicines for the sick on board the Tartar, on the 13 Feby 1779, one for clothing and hospital stores for the Tartar, on the 17 May 1779, one for hospital stores for the sick on

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board the Tartar Dragon Patriot and Fly– on the 8 Sept'r 1779, one for sundries for the use of the sick, ship Tartar– there was also an allowance for 2 months of sugar and coffee as surgeon of the Tartar from 28 Sept to 28 November 1779— he obtained land bounty, as a surgeon of the Navy, on the 22 July 1783, for a service of 3 years–

Dr. John Swope who had been in the Liberty and Henry, is embraced in a list of officers of the Dragon, as surgeon of the latter, entitled to supplies for 30 days, 2'd September 1779– and for sugar & coffee for 2 months, 7 October 1779– he obtained land bounty for service from 24 May 1776 to November 1781, as a surgeon of the Navy, on the 2'd Nov'r 1783—

From the foregoing it would seem, that the action did not take place in June 1779– but in September or October 1778– (I have a vague impression that I have seen the day mentioned, in a petition for relief from some one disabled in it, but have not been able to find it)– that, Dr. Brown was surgeon of the Dragon for 1778 and Dr. Swope in the latter part of 1779– that Dr. Chapin was surgeon of the Tartar from 29 August to late in Decem'r 1778, and that on the 13th Feby 1779 and after, Dr. Livingston was the surgeon of that vessel—

Could it have been Dr. Chapin and not Dr. Cheeseman, who went from the Tartar to the Patriot–

The only reference to Thomas Cheeseman, found in the Journals of the Navy Board Zr. is the following entry–

Saturday the 25 April 1778
Ordered that the Keeper of the public store deliver to Dr. Thomas Cheeseman as much cloth as will make him a suit of clothes with proper trimmings on his paying for the sums–

There is however, in the auditors office, a me-

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memorandum book of John St. Smith late commissioner, in reference to the Navy, in which is found, "a list of officers and Seamen of the State Navy belonging to the ship Dragon, Captain Eleazer Callender", at the end of this list, is the following note, This list was copied from a list (the original paper) in the hands of David Henderson Esq'r of Fredericksburg–

The arrangement is alphabetical, I select the following, [illegible] that are noted as officers, and include Cheeseman who is not so distinguished–
[Chart: Headings - Names, When entered service, When discharged or paid]
-Brown David - Surgeon, July 21 1777, May 13th 1778*
-Bennett Charles Sailg mastr [Sailing Master], March 17 1777, Jany 20 1779
-Callender Eleazer Capt, December 13 1776, @c
-Cheeseman Thomas, June 8 1777, @c
-Granberry John  S Mastr [Sail Master], Jany 24 1778, May 13 Discharged
-Craghill Nathl Mis, June 6 1777, July 24 1777
-Davis Alexander QrMr [Quarter Master], Augt 10 1777, May 13th 1778
-Downton Willm Gunr mate [Gunner mate], blank, Jany 20 1779
-Dawson Thos Midshipn [Midshipman], Septr 12 1778, @c
-Henderson David @c, April 1 1777, @c
-Knowles Thomas Carpn mate [Carpenter's mate], Feby 26, Jany 2d 1779
-Lusby John Lieut, April 17 1777, May 3 1778
-Laws John Brn mate, June 29 1777, Jany 20 1779
-Montague Richd Midsh [Midshipman], July 7 1777, @c
-Rust Benjamin Mid [Midshipman], June 9 1777, @c
-Tutt James, Midshipm [Midshipman], June 25 1777, Jany 24 1778 discharged by Navy Board
-Watson  Thos Qr Mr [Quarter Master], March 21 1777, Sept 2d 1777 Died
-Webb Francis Mid [Midshipman], Oct 18 1777, Jany 20 1779
-Watson Alvin Mid [Midshipman], March 1 1778, @c
* see Z line 4 these words to be supplied

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From this list of Mr. Stevensons, it appears that Thomas Cheeseman belonged to the Dragon at the time I suppose the action to have taken place, but it is not shown in what character,

By underscoring any thing in these memoranda, in red ink, of which it may be desirable to obtain official evidence, and returning it to me, such evidence will be procured and forwarded, or if any new [illegible] is suggested, by adding it, search will be made, and evidence if found, transmitted

14th Nov 1833
J.J.

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Answer to Interrogator 1st-
"The Tartar and Dragon were transferred to the Commercial Marine, the 25th March 1780- see papers in half pay case of Justin Livingston."

I find the foregoing entry in one of the examiners books. I have compared it with the petition of the Navy Board, and the order of Governor Jefferson, filed in the Livingston case, and find it to be correct.

Int. 2.— The journal of the Navy Board ("A."p.2) style him Dr. Cheeseman. There is much [illegible] testimony, clearly establishing his service in the medical department.

As to evidence of his being surgeon, or surgeon's mate— the following establishes the latter–that he was mate.

(1) David Henderson was midshipman of the Dragon. He had a list of officers & seamen–and he swears ("A"p.4.5.) that the books, in his handwriting, shew that C. was surg. mate, on the 8 June 1777

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This list we have (X) and it gives David Brown as surgeon, on the 21st July 1777, and it gives Cheeseman, but without any rank.– In all likelehood, he became surgeon's mate afterwards.

(2.) David Brown was chief surgeon of the Dragon, till Dec. 17. 1778.–and John Swope chief surgeon on the 7th October, 1779– this confirms Henderson.

(3.) In the "line service" (Y) he received the pay only of surgeon's mate. (bid. statement filed.)

There is no proof of his having left the Dragon, until July 15 1779, when he joined the "Line Commissioners" Y

He never joined the Tartar–so far as the proof shews. Buck is not to be believed, in swearing that he was surgeon of the Tartar, at the time of the "action off the capes"—for he afterwards, to sustain Dr. Reynold's case, swore that he, Reynolds, was the surgeon of the Tartar, at the time of that action. Another witness, (James,) in the case of Dr. Johnson, proved also that Reynolds was the surgeon of the Tartar—

J.G. Adams, Esquire—

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Memoranda, Feb. 17. 1854– as to the condition of the Dragon, between the 15th of April, 1779, and June 8th 1779.

Was the Dragon broke up, between those periods, so that the officers were, for the time, thrown out of command?

The proof in favor of the supposition, is, (1) that Capt. Callender resigned on the 15th of April, 1779. and that Capt, Markham was, on the 8th of June 1779, ordered to take command, and refit her–
(2.) Cranberry, Sail'g master's mate, discharged, May 13 '79

Other proof is found contra. thus:

(1.) Joseph Sanders entered the Dragon in March 1777. & was in the Action of Oct'r 1778– see his statements in Taylors case, (W.) and continued in her as long as Markham was in command, /or Markham himself certified, in Sanders's case, "that Jos. Sanders was master's mate of the ship Dragon when I took command of her, and was appointed clerk" &c. 
So that the Dragon had at least some of her old officers, through that period.

(2.) Further, although the list was kept up, till at least 13th May '79 no discharge was noted, but Cranberry's—and one in 1778.

(3.) Further, none of the records allude to this two months abandonment—The narrative of Jos. Sanders, in Taylor's

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Cheeseman-
Abstracts of testimony taken upon review–4ict.10_17
1854

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case, says, "Capt. W_ Sanders was put in co[illegible] after this"_(the action_) "Capt Callender resigned command of the Dragon, and Capt. T. Markham put in command of her– then Edward Travis"—W p.2.

(4.) Further, It was probably known, that the law of May 1779 was about to be passed. It may be [illegible] asked, whether this knowledge could not be operative, to prevent officers from resigning, or abandoning the service necessarily, about that time?

[illegible initials] A. Examiner_

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Review of the Cheeseman Claim

Feb. 4. 1854

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Comments on argument of Mr. Ellis, of Feb 2. (Z)- and reconsideration_

A serious doubt having arisen on the mind of the Examiner, on the true construction of document Y, I herewith submit the grounds of my doubt to the commissioner–

There are two questions:
1. Ought the service of Cheeseman with the "guards," to be considered as a voluntary relinquishment of the navy? –and, if not, 
2. Was his rank that of chief surgeon, or of surgeons mate?

On the first point, I state the claimant's position thus:
First, we find him for a year or two in the navy, in one of the grades of surgeon. Here the navy records stop. Next, we find him acting as surgeon– (with half the pay of surgeon–) with the "guards" of the Boundary Line commissioners. Who raised the guards? It is found to be the Governor, who was authorized by the act of assembly to raise them. (9th Hen. 565)

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Who was it that appointed Cheeseman to act as surgeon of the line guards? It was either the commissioners, or the Governor. I think it was not the commissioners. The act of assembly gives them authority, in terms, to appoints "a surveyor, and such other attendants as shall be necessary." "Attendants" here can mean nothing more than assistants to the surveyor, and servants. To embrace a surgeon, would be a strained construction. The commissioners were bound strictly by the Act. They would be very unlikely to assume such an appointment. 

The Governor's position was different. Not only did his office clothe him with a higher and general authority, but his especial duty, conferred by the Act, to raise the military escort, makes it highly probable that he procured the surgeon also. In default of any authority in the act to employ such an officer, he would be likely to do such an act of prudence or necessity: and finding that Cheeseman could be spared from his vessel, the Dragon, (of which there was another surgeon,) he detailed him to this service.

If the foregoing is a just view, then the claim would be considered in as favorable a light, as if Cheeseman had remained on the Dragon, until she was transferred, on the 25th of March 1780—as he did not finish his

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service with the "guards" after that time.

2. Was he a surgeon or surgeon's mate?

The "abstract" on file shews, that he could only have been surgeon's mate, while on the Dragon. The document Y confirms this conclusion; for it shews that while with "the guards," he received payment equal to a surgeon's mate, very nearly. 
Taking the time of service, (1 year & 118 days,) and calculating the depreciation for the periods by the scale, (10. Hen. 465) and it gives a payment of $179 per annum. The pay of surgeon's mate was $182.50 per annum. 

Feb. 4. 1854.—
J.F.A. examiner

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Abstract of the testimony–
Th. Cheeseman

Act authorizing the boundary line to be [illegible]. Oct [illegible] 1779
report [illegible] in 1780.

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[middle page]
Abstract of the 
 testimony of 
Th. Cheeseman
-----------------
Act Authorizing the
boundary line to be run
[Oct before 1779
Report [illegible] in
1780 [illegible]

[sideways on left side]
Dr. Cheeseman
Examiner's Abstract
The testimony of Dr.
Cheeseman's civil service
[crossed though] afterwards

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Abstract of the claim of Dr. Th. Cheeseman, Surgeon
Navy;

1. His employment as surgeon's mate on the ship Dragon, is shewn by the entry on the log-book of June 8. 1777 ("A" p. 4.5. & affidavit of David Henderson, midshipman.)

2. In the Journal of the Navy Board, he was, April 25, 1778 called "Dr. Cheeseman." –(ib. p. 2–)

3. There are 4 depositions of Henry Buchanan – and three certificates of his good character. 

(1.) Jan. 20, 1832. It says C. "was made a surgeon" and "was engaged and absent in that capacity for a considerable portion of the war." A p. 1

(2) July 28. 1832 – that C. returned to the County of York, (the place of his residence,) in 1780 or early in 1781 – settled in the County of Y. and practised medicine, after he left the service. _ Left the service honorably. A p. 4

These two depositions were probably taken with a view only to the land, for 3 years service.

(3.) March 14, 1834- that C. was in the naval service – & he well remembers he was at the siege of York. He had no doubt that he was in service during the war. B. was a pensioner. 

(4) Oct. 21. 1834. – that Dr. Ch. was a surgeon of the navy, of Va. – viz. on board of the ship Dragon - & that he acted as such till that ship was ordered out of service, but did not know the precise time–

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Buchanan thus confirms the service expressly to the particular ship, the Dragon. 

James Burk's credibility is not certified– but there are in his deposition some marks of truth— Buck testified, on the 19th of January, 1832,– that Dr. C. was a surgeon in the Va. Navy in the Rev.y War, on board of the Tartar, commanded by Commodore Taylor– that he distinctly recollected the engagement near the Capes of Virginia in which Com. Taylor was wounded. In this engagement, several persons were wounded on board the Patriot, to which witness belonged, and Dr. C. came on board the Patriot from the Tartar, to assist in dressing the wounded in the Patriot. (A.p.1.)

These two are in conflict, in this: Buchanan thought he served, throughout, on the Dragon– Buck says he was on the Tartar, and specifies a service of a very particular kind. 

Three other witnesses, Goodwin, (p.2.) Jones, (p.3) and Cain, (p. 5th) speak positively of his service for 3' years, but not more expressly of the time, nor of the ship—

There is record evidence, that Cheeseman was not Chief surgeon, of the Dragon, at any time previous to the 17th of December, 1779– for David Brown was surgeon, up to that time, when he left that vessel; nor was he chief surgeon of the Dragon on the 7th of October 1779– for on that day, it appears from the records, that John Swope was the surgeon (see papers in the care of David Brown– first report, and papers G & H)

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Neither was he surgeon of the Tartar. Two claims have already been allowed for services as surgeon of the Tartar, towit: John Reynolds,- proved by the records, in service from Jan. 27. 1779,- and by parol proof after, till the transfer of the Tartar- and Justin Livingston, service on the same ship, proved from Dec. 15. 1778 to Nov. 28. 1779– Then being two claims already paid, there is no room for Cheeseman on the Tartar.— And besides, the witness, Brucke, (who says, that he, (C.,) was a surgeon on the Tartar,) testified, on the 10th of July 1834– that he knew Reynolds to have been "the surgeon of the Tartar, at the time Taylor was wounded."

Burk was doubtless mistaken, as to Cheeseman's having come on board the Patriot from the Tartar– he came, probably from the Dragon– the ships all being in company– or, he may have gone first to the Tartar, to assist there, and thence to the Patriot.

It is probable, that Cheeseman continued, as surgeon's mate on board the Dragon, while Brown, and Swope, were chief surgeons, successively. 

Surgeons mates were not uncommon. E.G. Th. Leudrum was surgeon's mate of the Tempest– Nickle was surgeon– & both allowed their claims. 

Buchanan's testimony was also given in

Page 41

Nor was he the surgeon of the Tartar, from Dec. 15. 1778. to Nov. 28. 1779.– for Justin Livingston was surgeon at that period. (Vide paper Nv. 4. from Dr. Livingston's claim papers.)

He may, have continued surgeon's mate of the Dragon. 

Burk probably may have seen Cheeseman engaged as he states – The Dragon, Tartar, and the Patriot, were in company. The action was fought by the Tartar and the Patriot

Page 42

the care of Reynolds. He speaks in that testimony of having been stationed at York garrison, and knowing particularly the Dragon and Tartar. And he names several officers, (six) and among them "Dr. Cheeseman"—

I can reconcile Burke's mistake thus: Jos. Saunders (W.) and Wm James (in the evidence in Reynold's case,) shew, that before the action,  Com. Taylor had taken officers from the Dragon, & made chase &c. He may have taken Cheeseman among them, as especially needed– and thus Burke saw him come from the Tartar, to assist the wounded in his vessel, the Patriot—

Cheeseman, (heirs) in 1838, obtained a warrant from Virginia for land, after some difficulty, the claim being at first rejected. Scrip has now been issued for it. 

Cheeseman did not obtain his depreciation money. 

He died in 1798 or 1799.

Nov. 10. 1853.

[written sideways at bottom right]
Examiner's Brief of Dr. Cheeseman
Oct. 5. [illegible]1832.

Page 43

5
Supplemental, Nov. 16, 1853—
The communication received this day, from Mr. Jackson, Richmond, is valuable, but does not change my own views, materially, of the present case.
But it contains a copy of the list of David Henderson, before alluded to. This copy is in page 4.X. But in that list Cheeseman was set down, without any official designation. He doubtless entered as a seaman– and afterwards aided the surgeon. Buchanan's language is, he was "made a surgeon". He was always, afterwards, at least, styled Dr. Cheeseman. –&vid. Navy Tour.

"A" p.2
Second Supplemental, Nov. 1853.
This evidence is decisive against the application. It shews, that in the summer of 1779 he was attached to the commission appointed to run the line between North Carolina and Virginia— and in 1780 (Aug.) he was paid in full for these services. So that he must have relinquished his berth of surgeon's mate

Page 44

Washington 2d February 1854
Commissioner of Pensions

Sir,
In the half pay claim of Doctor Thomas Cheeseman, you seem to suppose, that the fact, of his being Surgeon to the guards, who accompanied the Boundary Commission, affects his claim injuriously, as to his halfpay promised by the act of May 1779. I take directly an opposite view of that last service. It was clearly a continuation of military service. 

Early in July 1779 several naval vessels (I think on the 5th July /79) were dismantled, & the officers thereof thus became supernumerary. The Mantis & Safeguard, & Lewis & Hero were among these dismantled in July /79 & the Protector galley was burnt in the summer of that year. The Surgeons of the Safeguard & Lewis are unknown to me. Mr. Smith in his reports says the surgeons of Mantis were changed

Page 45

very frequently. This is also manifest from the fact that the same surgeon appears at different times on board of different vessel. Thus Dr. Livingston was at one time surgeon of the "Fly"– at another time of the "Big Northampton"– at another time of the "Scorpion" & at another time of the "Tartar". These facts appear from the rolls of the various vessels. It is impossible to say what vessel Dr. Cheeseman was last on board of as surgeon, nor is it important. He did not resign, or if this is alleged, the burthen of proof falls on the Government & his resignation must be shewn. It is probably that he was assigned in the summer of /79 early, to some vessel which was dismantled in July /79, & was then unemployed or supernumerary, he was detailed as surgeon to the guards as before stated. That the guards were composed of militia is unimportant, for the officers were

Page 46

not militia officers, but were appointed or detailed by the Governor. The act appointing Commissioners of the Boundary did not authorise a guard nor a Surgeon but a guard being found necessary the Governor ordered one & detailed Dr. Cheeseman to attend the guards. William Finnie was appointed Quarter master Gen'l of the State & rec'd Land & depreciation as such, & yet in the order appointing herein, it will be seen that his services were required because a large militia force were commenced & a State Qr. master became necessary,– yet he was not a militia officer. See his papers on file. 

There being no proof of resignation, Cheeseman was supernumerary, if he was out of service when called o to attend the guards. See case of Commonwealth & Marston Leigh, Va Reports: & see atty [attorney] generals opinion, given on the Virginia claims for supernumerary service

Page 47

on the 7th January 1854.

As to his grade, he certainly was Surgeon to the guards & no doubt Surgeon before he left the Navy. His service as Surgeon to the guards was a continuation of service & not an original service. The Governor & Council of Virginia have decided his grade & allowed his heirs land Bounty as Surgeon & not as Surgeons mate. The atty general says, in his opinion given 9th January 1854 on the question of "death service", that the decisions of the Virginia Executives "are entitled to consideration". The Secretary of the Interior decided, in his Instructions to the Com'e of the Land Office, in January last, (on the Virginia claims) that where doubts existed, the Virginia decisions must prevail. With these views I submit the claim with confidence in its justice, & in its allowance.

Very respectfully
Your ob servant
Vespasian Ellis

Page 48

Letter to V. Ellis Esq.
rejecting this claim
Nov. 17. 53

copy letter rejecting claim

Page 49

Pension office, Nov. 17, 1853

Sir,
The evidence in relation to the claim of Dr. Thomas Cheeseman for half pay, has been fully considered, and it establishes, by a necessary insurer, his resignation as a surgeons mate in the navy, before the close of the war. 

Dr. Cheeseman entered the service on board the Dragon, and probably continued as surgeon's mate on the same vessel, until after the 'action off the Capes,' which took place in September or October, 1778. (X) 
The witness Burke must have erred in supposing that he served on board the Tartar, at the time of that action. But be that as it may, the records from the auditors office at Richmond, (Y,) recently received, prove, that in the summer of 1779, he was employed & attended the Commissioners of Virginia, who was appointed under the act of October 1778. (9. then. 561,) to run the boundary between that state and North Carolina. In this service he continued until sometime in 1780, for which on the 11th of November 1780, he received £3808.8. in full. This was a civil commission, although he was employed in his profession & character. There is no proof nor is it probable, that he re-entered the navy. He certainly could not have rejoined the Dragon, or joined the Tartar, which were both transferred to the Marines, on the 25th of March, 1780 (No. 4.)

It is clear that this claim ought not to be allowed. 

I remain, Respectfully,
Yr. Ob't serv't

V. Ellis Esq. Present

Page 50

Thomas Cheeseman
Brief

Page 51

Pension Office
July 9th
the
Thomas Cheeseman
Evidence filed in case
"A" Evidence filed in Ex. Dept '  Va in support of
application for Bounty Land. (Copies
affidavits of Henry
Buchanan, that Thomas Cheeseman was during the
Revelation appointed Surgeon in the Virginia Navy
that he was from the County of York that he
was absent from said County for more than three
years; that he returned from said Naval
service in the latter part of 1780 or early in
to
1781; that he was never dishonorably discharged

Affidavit of James Burk that the said Cheeseman
was Surgeon in the Va Navy on board
the Lartor, (in Rev) Comd by Com Taylor-- Dr Cheeseman
came on board the Patriot assist in dressing wounded 
Affidavit of Peter Goodwin
that said Cheesman was surgeon of one of the

Page 52

ships of the Va Navy in the Rev War, for more than three years--
Affidavit of Wm James that said Cheesman served three years or more in Rev War as a Surgeon in Va Navy--
Affidavit of Jeremiah Cain that he first saw said Cheesman in the Navy in '77 or 78 & frequently saw him from that time untill '81 & during all that
time he was attached to Va Navy--thinks
he served untill close of War-
Affidavits of Saml Shields & Wm Gilliam that said Cheesman was always reputed to have been a Surgeon in the Navy--
Extract from Navy Board Journal, dated April 25th 1778 - an order for a suit of clothes to "Dr Thomas Cheesman"--
Extract from books of "Dragon" showing said Cheesman to have been Surgeons Mate on board that vessel as early as 8th June 1777
"B"--  Original Certificate of Henry Buchanan that he knew from personal knowledge

Page 53

that said Cheesman was Surgeon in Va Navy-- that he was on board the ship "Dragon" & continued as Surgeon on board said ship untill it was ordered out of service --
"C" -- "D"  Proof of Heirship -- Letters of Administration & Power of Atty [illegible] Ellis -

Page 54

Z
Letter from Joseph Jackson

Page 55

Richmond Va 18 Nov 1833
Sir
I sent you by last evenings mail, memoranda,
of all that I then thought would be found here bearing on Dr Cheesemans services, in the extracts from Hendersons list I may have omitted to insert, the date in the right hand column opposite the name of Dand
Brown, if so. it should be May 13 1778-
At night, in looking into a matter not [illegible]
the with Army or Navy, I obtained a clue to the evidence now sent you, viz, that Dr Cheeseman was attached to the party running the boundary line between Virginia and North Carolina, it seems, from the summer of '79 to the fall of 1780 - I do not know that suggestions are expected from me and make now-
A short time since you asked who was
Col.l Gaskins, in reply I stated his services, I have
since seen an entry to this effect - March 29 1779
Col.l Thomas Gaskins (Northumberland) governor warrant to recruit.
Very respectfully
Yrs [illegible]
Joseph Jackson
L.P. Waldo Esq
Comr of Pensions

Page 56

"A"
Cheeseman
Cheesse

Page 57

,
VIRGINIA, to wit:  I, [handrwitten James McDowell] Governor of the STATE aforesaid, do hereby certify and make known unto ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, that [handwritten Wm  H Richardson whose name is subscribed to the annexed document -- is and was at the time of subscribing the same Secretary of the Commonwealth and Clerk of the Executive Department of Viriginia, duly appointed and qualified according to Law wherefore to all his official acts]
full faith, credit and authority are due and ought to be given.
In testimony whereof, I have subscribed my name,
and caused the Great Seal of the STATE to be affixed hereunto.  Done at the CITY OF RICHMOND, the [handwritten thirteenth] day of [handwritten March]
in the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and [handwritten Forty five] and of the COMMONWEALTH [handwritten the sixty ninth
Ja: Mc Dowell]
BY THE GOVERNOR,
[handwritten Wm H Richardson
Viz Comsr Keeper of the seal.

Page 58

1st page
Buckanan --
(1)  I Henry Buchanan who was engaged in the Revolutionary service, do hereby certify that I was well acquainted with Dr Thomas Cheesman of the Navy in the war of the Revolution.  Said Cheesman was of York County & was made a surgeon in the Virginia Navy, in which capacity he was engaged & absent from his place of nativity for a considerable portion of the war    I can say with confidence, much more than three years. Witness my hand this 20th day of Jany: 1832
[Handwritten:  Henry Buckanan
York County, to wit:
This day Henry Buckanan appeared before me, a Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid & made oath to the truth of the above statement.
Given under my hand & seal this 20th day of Jany 1832.
T.C. Russell, J.P. Y.Cty  (seal]
I am well acquainted with Henry Buckanan the within affiant and have no hesitation in saying I
consider him a man of accurate memory and unquestionable
veracity.
Ro: Sheild
Richm.d Feb. 9th 1832

Land Off: Va 9th Feby. 1832
It does not appear that Thomas Cheeseman has drawn a Military Land Bounty warrant.
W. Selden R. L. Off:

I James Burke who was in the Virginia Navy in the Revolutionary War hereby certify that Dr Thomas Cheesman was a Surgeon in the Virginia Navy in the Revolutionary war on Board of the Tartar commanded by
Com: Taylor.  I recollect distinctly the engagement near the Capes of Virginia in which com: Taylor was wounded. In this engagement several persons were wounded on board of the Patriot to which I belonged & Dr Cheesman came on board the Patriot from the Tartar to assist in dressing the wounded in the Patriot.
James Burk
Eliz. City County, to wit:
This day James Bark personally
appeared

Page 59


2nd page
appeared before me a Justice of the peace for the County afores.d
& made oath to the truth of the above statement.   Given under my hand & seal this 19th day of January 1832
James Vaughan. JP [seal]
--
I 
Peter Goodwin certify that I was well acquainted with
Dr Thomas Cheesman in the Revolutionary war.  Dr Cheesman was a relation of mine, & was surgeon on board one of the ships of the Virginia Navy in said Navy for more than three years.-- I can speak with confidence of the facts because Dr Cheesman sometimes came on shore from the vessel on which he served as surgeon, when I was in the habit of seeing him. I am no way interested as his heir or relatives:
Peter Goodwin Sr
York County, to wit:
This day personally appeared before me, a Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid, Peter Goodwin.  I made oath to the truth of the above statement. Given under my hand & seal this 23d day of Jany 1832
Allen Chapman, J.P. [seal]
I certify that I have been acquainted with Peter Goodwin, who signs the within affidavit, for fifty years -- during which time I have never known his character impeached.  I consider him entitled to the fullest credit in any statement he may make.
Thos Griffin
York town Va.
24th Jany: 1832.

Saturday April 25th 1778.
Ordered that the Keeper of the Public Store deliver to Doctor Thomas Cheeseman as much cloth as will make a suit of clothes with proper trimmings on his paying for the same.
The foregoing is a true extract from a book filed in this office, which appears to be a journal of the Navy board.
Jas E. Heath Aud.r
Aud.rs Office
9 Feby 1832
The above is the form of all orders in the Navy Board Journal directing clothing to the officers Etc. of the Navy -- The Public store keepers were always required to demand pay for the same -- I believe no exception is to be found -- T. Green

Page 60

3d page
I certify that I knew Doctor Thomas Cheesman in
the Revolutionary War & that Dr Cheesman served three
years I am certain, but I think longer -- as surgeon
of one of the Virginia Ships in the Revolutionary War.
William James Senior  his+ mark

Gloucester County, towit:
This day William Jameson made oath to the truth of the above statement before me a Justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid.
Given under my hand & seal this 2nd day of July 1832
John F. Scott J.P.  [seal]
I certify that William James is an old gentleman of this County whose statements may be relied on.
John F. Scott
--
Buchanan
3
I Henry Buchanan, age seventy two years, do certify that Doctor Thomas Chisman of the County of York in the State of Virginia was in the Naval service of the Revolutionary War, I well remember of his being at the seage [seige] of Little York.  I have no doubt but what he continued in the service during the war.  I am now myself on the pencion [pension] list of the United States.  Given 
under my hand & seal this 14th day of March 1834.
Henry Buchanan [seal]
York County, towit:
This day personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid, Henry Buchanan & made oath to the
correctness of the above statement.  Given under my
hand & seal this 14th day of March 1834.
H. Russell J.P. Y Cty [seal]
I do hereby certify that any statement made by the above named Henry Buchanan is entitled to full faith & credit.  Given under my hand this 14th day of March 1834.
J.C. Russell

Virginia
York County Court 16th day of July 1832   The Court from their individual knowledge of Henry Buchanan

Page 61

4th page
Buchanan of this County doth certify that he is a man possessing a remarkably retentive memory; of strict veracity; that due confidence ought to be reposed in his statements; and that he is a very old man and at this time receives a pension for his services in the Revolutionary War.
A Copy
Teste
Saml Sheild C.Y.C.
---
Buchanan   Q
I certify that Doctor Thomas Cheesman of whose services I have before given a certificate returned to the County of York from the Naval service in the latter part of the year 1780 or early in 1781 -- & was never dishonourably discharged the service to my knowledge.-- Dr C. settled in the County of York & practiced medicine after he left the service-- & if he had left the service dishonourably. I am sure I should have heard of it. I can say that I never heard of his having left
the service in any other than an honourable manner.
Henry Buchanan
York County, to wit:
Q
This day Henry Buchanan made oath to the truth of the above statement-- which was first read to him-- before me, a Justice of the peace in & for the County aforesaid.  Given under my hand seal this 28th day of July 1832
F.C. Russell J.P. Y Cty [seal]
====
Being requested so to do, I do hereby certify that I have a memorandum taken by me from the Books of the "Dragon" in the possession of David Henderson of Fredericksburg who was Clerk & midshipman of that vessel.  This memorandum represents that Thomas Cheeseman was surgeon's mate on board that vessel as early as the 8th of June 1777 - how long he remained on board does not appear. -- Mr Henderson is very old and now refuses to give up the Book or to testify in favor of applicants - I know of his refusal in several cases -- But the above is a true statement from his books -
I have no interest in the claim directly or indirectly.  As
witness my hand this 30 July 1832
A. M. Green
----
I certify that it appears from the Books of the ship Dragon

Page 62


5th page,
Dragon, which are in my hand writing, that Thomas Cheeseman was surgeon's mate of said ship as early as the 8th
day of June 1777, and that Redgnel Hudgons enlisted on board of the sloop Defiance as a seaman and died in service -
It further appears from the Books of the Sloop Defiance now in my possession that Meriman Payne was sailing master in that ship as early as the 12th day of August 1776.  Given under my hand this 2nd day of August 1832
David Henderson
Midshipman & Clerk of the Ship Dragon  --  Eliezer Callender Master
Teste  W.S. Triplett
---
Corporation of Fredericksburg, to wit:
I William Allen a Justice of the peace for the Corporation aforesaid do hereby certify that D. Henderson made oath to the within, before me (the words "sloop Defiance "having been previously interlined) this 2d Aug. 1832. 
Wm. Allen
Richd 3 August 1832
I sent a special messenger to Mr Henderson & urged the propriety of his stating the contents of his book.  This morning this paper was recd and is accordingly filed, tho' it seems not very full or explicit
Thos Green
===
The affidavit of Jeremiah Cain
This affiant being now in the sixty seventh year of his age was born in the St of Ma. and removed sometime before the Revolutionary war to Back river in Elizabeth City Cy. St. of Va. and resided there until after peace - that it was a place of great resort for the armed vessels of the St. of Va. - where he had frequent opportunities of seeing the officers of the said vessels - that he knew Dr. Thomas Cheeseman of York County, State of Va. - that he first saw him in the Navy in '77 or '78, that he had frequent opportunities of seeing him from that time to '81, that during that time he was attached to the Navy of Va..  that he was well acquainted with him after the war & that he has never heard it doubted that he served until the close of the war.
This

Page 63


6th page
This affiant has no doubt of the fact himself.
J. his X mark Cain
Norfolk Borough, to wit:
This 21 day of January personally appeared before me Jeremiah Cain and made oath to the truth of the statement above set forth in his affidavit.
Given under my hand this 26th day of Jany 1834.
D.C. Barrand
an Alderman of Norfolk Borough
==
Virginia,
I Samuel Sheild of the County of York in the State aforesaid, aged forty eight years, do hereby certify ^on oath^ that I was raised in said County and have always resided therein; that I was well acquainted with Doctor Thomas Chisman formerly of said County, who probably died in the Town of Hampton & County of Elizabeth City, the adjoining County to the County of York, between the year 1798 & 1804 - That I have
often heard my father and mother speak of said Dr. Chisman
and have frequently learned from them and others & particularly from a gentleman who married his half sister all of whom were on terms of intimacy with him, that he the said Dr Chisman served in the Revolutionary War, but how long and in what capacity I do not now remember -- I knew and went to school with (to Dr Chisman when quite young) his daughter and only child, Lucy, who intermarried with Robert Tabb of this County, both of whom are now dead leaving three children, Mary who intermarried with Lewis Moreland and William and Robert Tabb the two last ^are^ now living within six miles of my residence but the said Mary is dead, whether with or without issue I do not know.   Given under my hand this 29th day of April 1834.     Sam. Sheild

Virginia York County, to wit:
This day Samuel Sheild whose name is subscribed to the foregoing certificate personally appeared before me Wm H. Sheild a Justice of the peace for said County and made oath that the facts by him stated in said certificate so far as they depend on his own knowledge are true, and so far as they are derived from

Page 64

7th page

from the information of others he believes them to be true. Given under my hand this 30th day of April  1834.
Wm H. Sheild J.P. Y.C.
==
Virginia,
I William Gilliam of the County of York, aged sixty two years, do hereby certify on oath that I was personally acquainted with Doctor Thomas Chesman formerly of said County who died in the County of Elizabeth City and town of Hampton between the years 1798 & 1804, but as well as my memory now serves probably in the last of the year 1798 or early in 1799.  That I have always understood from old persons of that day, and from common report among those most intimately acquainted with him, that he served as a surgeon on board of a galley during the Revolutionary War.  That I knew his family will and can assert positively that he died leaving ^only^ one child, Lucy, who intermarried with Robert Tabb of the County of York, both of whom are dead leaving three children -- viz: Mary who intermarried with Lewis Moreland and left a child or children, and Robert and William
Tabb, the former residing within about eight or nine and the latter within three or four miles of my residence
Given under my hand this third day of May in the year 1834
William Gilliam

York County, to wit:
This day William Gilliam whose name is subscribed to the above certificate personally appeared before me, Robert Sheild a Justice of the peace for the County aforesaid, and made oath that the facts stated by him in said certificate so far as they depend or his own knowledge are true, and so far as they depend on the information of others he believes them to be true.
Given under my hand this third day of May 1834.
Ro: Sheild J.P. Y.C.
===

Petition for Bounty Land.
The Heirs of Dr Thomas Cheesman, Surgeon V. Navy
This claim has been before the Executive since April 1832--
It was rejected June 14th 1832--
It

Page 65

8th page

It was again register'd [registered] for reconsideration July 14, 1832, on add.l [additional] evidence.  It was rejected Nov. 19th 1833, and again was registered - March 18, 1834 - for reconsideration.
I have heretofore reported unfavourably [unfavorably] of this claim, but there is now before the Executive sufficient proof of Dr Cheesman's service as surgeon for three years, or more -- that is to say my opinion is that the claim is sustained by proof.
Your Excellency may think differently.
The facts are -- Dr Cheeseman's name is not on the army register -- I have found it in the Navy journals but once -- It is not to be found on the few, & imperfect, papers & payrolls of the vessels Dragon & Tarter, in which he is said to have served.  But there is proof of his title to bounty land which I think commands respect.

David Henderson Midshipman & Clerk of the ship Dragon (who has the books & papers of that vessel in his possession) has certified, that as early as the 8th day of June 1777 Dr. Cheesman was Surgeon's mate on board the Dragon
---
Peter Goodwin was well acquainted with Dr Cheesman in the Revolutionary war;  Dr Cheesman was his relation, and was surgeon on board one of the ships of the Va Navy for more than three years.  The witness speaks with confidence of these facts: and says he is in no manner interested as heir or relative of Dr Cheesman.  The witness
is credible.
---
Henry Buchannan a respectable witness says, he was well acquainted with Dr Cheesman, that he was a surgeon in the Va. Navy, & serv'd [served] more than three years, that he left the Navy in the latter part of 1780, or early in 1781, and practis'd [practiced] medicine in York County. If he had left the service dishonourably [dishonorably] the witness would have known it
--
Henry Vaughan proves that the ship Tartar was in service until the summer of 1780.

James Burk says that Dr Cheesman was surgeon in the Va Navy, that he was on board the Tartar commanded by Com. Taylor.  That in the engagement near the capes of Virginia, in which Com: Taylor was wounded, there were several person wounded on board the Patriot (in which last vessel the witness was) and that Dr Cheesman was sent from the Tartar to the Patriot to assist in dressing the wounded.  This witness also proves that the Tartar was in service until the

Page 66

9th page

the fall of 1780.  He is a credible witness.
===
Wm James, a credible witness, says that Dr Cheesman served three years (he is certain) as Surgeon of one of the Virginia vessels in the Revolutionary War.
Respectfully submitted
John H. Smith Com.Etc. |  May 7th 1834.
To his Excellency
Gov. Tazewell -
==
Executive Department
March 13th 1845.
I hereby certify that this & the foregoing eight pages contain  true copies of papers on file in this department.
Wm H Richardson Secy Comth [initialed: mc]
Clerk of the Executive Department

Page 67

"D"
Dr. Thos. Chisman or Cheeseman

power of atty

[illegible: faded writing on left fold]

Page 68

Know all men by these Presents
that I William Tabb, Admr of Thomas Chisman dec'd who was a
Surgeon of the State Navy of Virginia, to hereby appoint [illegible] Ellis Esq of Washington City my attorney to receive from the Government of the United States the half pay due under the act of Congress of July 5th 1832, to the said Thomas Cheesman for his services as a Surgeon as aforesaid in the War of the Revolution.
Witness my hand & seal this the 23rd day of April 1851.
William Tabb [seal]
Elizabeth City
County towit:

This day William Tabb, personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County and acknowledged the foregoing power of Attorney to be his act and deed.  Given under
my hand this 23rd day of April 1851.
Fayette Jones  J.P.

Page 69

State of Virginia, Elizabeth City County, to wit:
I, Samuel S. Howard Clerk of the County Court for
the County and State aforesaid do hereby certify the Fayette
Jones is a justice of the peace in and for said County, duly
Commissioned and qualified, that he is legally authorized to act as such and that his signature herein before written is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of the said Court this
23d day of April AD 1851  --
S. S. Howard Clk

Page 70

[in left margin]  No 4.      4      Buchanan
[illeg.] that I know [illeg.] Dr Thomas Chis[illeg.] of York County, in the revolutionary War times, I know of my own knowledge that Dr Cheesman was a surgeon of the Virginia navy in the war of the Revolution on board
of the ship Dragon, & that he acted as such until that ship was ordered out of the service by order of government, though at what time precisely he was ordered out of the service I cannot state.
Given under my hand thia 21st day of October 1834.
Henry Buchanan

State of Virginia
York County
Towit--
this day Henry Buchanan made oath to the truth of the above statement before me a justice of the Peace in & for the County aforesd
Given under my hand this 21st day of October 1834
F. C. Russell J.P. Y.C.
Henry Buchanan is a pensioner of the government, whose statements may
be fully relied on
F. C. Russell

Page 71

[written in center fold]
"B"
Buchanan's affidavit No. 4

==

Virginia:
York County to wit:
I Samuel Sheild Clerk of York County Court in the State aforesaid  do hereby certify that Thos C. Russell was at the time of signing the foregoing certificates & now is a Justice of the Peace for
said County of York and that his signatures thereto are genuine Given under my hand and seal of office this 10th day of Decem.
1845
Saml Shield cyc