Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 11040, Thomas Gates, Conn.

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Conn. Gates, Thomas W.11040
Rachel

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6.176
Connecticut
Rachel Gates widow of Thomas Gates who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private of Infantry and Cavalry

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 72 Dollars 22 cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.

Certificate of Pension issued the 4th day of Nov./53 and sent to John C. Palmer Hartford Connet.

Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 283 Vol.1

John C. Palmer
Nov 5 1833

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State of Connecticut - County of Middlesex

On this twentieth day of [strikethrough] September [strikethrough] October A.D. 1846 personally appears before the County Court for said Middlesex County, at its regular time said court being a Court of Record having a Clerk and seal Rachel Gates a resident of the town of East Haddam in the county of Middlesex and state of Connecticut aged seventy six years who first being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed July 7th 1838. entitled an "Act granting half pay and pension to certain widows" and the several acts and Resolutions of Congress in addition [?] and in attestation thereof - That the Widow of Thomas Gates Jr. (or 2nd) formerly of said East Haddam now deceased, who was a private and sergeant in the Revolutionary War in the 2nd company 2nd Regiment Light Horse as she believes, which was commanded by Capt. James Green of said East Haddam during the Revolutionary War - That said Thomas went to Roxbury in the summer of 1775 as a private Gen Spencer’s company militia in place of his brother Zechariah who had enlisted and served for several months, the particulars she does not know - That in the month of July or August 1776 said Thomas Gates Jr went as a private in said company of Horse to West Chester and other places in the vicinity of New York and served as Coast Guard and camping exposed under Gen Silliman and Major Backus until late in November of that year as I well recollect he came home about the time of his sisters death, which occurred the evening before thanksgiving of that year -  He was enlisted previous to coming home and I think he soon returned to this army near West Chester and remained there for some time this length of time she does not know - That said Thomas Gates was at Rhode Island under Gen Spencer in the summer & fall of 1777 and staid through that campaign, as she has often heard said Thomas and Isaac Spencer discuss, who was aid to Gen Spencer talk about it in former years - That said Thomas was also at White Plains as she believes in the year 1778 and served as a sergeant in said company of Horse, but the particulars she doesn't know - That said Thomas

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served in the Revolutionary War for a period of nearly two years in the whole and in support of his claim and as evidence of his service then refer to the props hereunto annexed. The old papers relating to the War were all found among the family papers of said Thomas Gates Jr. She further declares that she was married to the said Thomas Gates Jr on the twenty second day of June Seventeen hundred Eighty eight. That her husband the aforesaid Thomas Gates Jr died at East Haddam on the twentieth day of July 1826. That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place prior to the first day of January Seventeen hundred Ninety four to wit at the time above stated - 
Rachel Gates

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I certify that the said “September” in the oath was crossed and the word “October” inscribed before the Declaration was subscribed by said Rachel Gates -
John C Palmer Judge County Court for Middlesex County

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I Julius Gates of East Haddam County of Middlesex and State of Connecticut aged fifty years having been duly cautioned examined & sworn depose and say that I am the son of Thomas Gates formerly Thomas Gates Jr. now deceased, and Rachel Gates of said East Haddam - That said Thomas Gates died at East Haddam July 20th 1826 and said Rachel has not intermarried since his decease but still remains his Widow - I have often heard my father said Thomas Gates tell of his being in the Revolutionary Service, and talk with other soldiers about it. I distinctly recollect having him talk that he went to Roxbury in 1775 with General Spencer  in place of his brother Zechariah Gates who had enlisted, as said Zechariah was out of health and unable to serve - I heard him say that while then he went into a room where the Officers were, and one of the soldiers by the name of Fuller took a bottle of tea, and that he and fuller made a fire and took tea together, and the bottle which contained the tea is now in my house. I do not recollect the period that he served at this time but should say it was for several months - I have also herd said Thomas tell of his being in a company of Light horse under Capt James Green, Col Silliman at Horse Neck, York Island, Rhode Island and other places, but the particulars I cannot state - Said Thomas was the oldest son of Thomas Gates and Sarah Gates, and he had [strikethrough] six [strikethrough] five brothers, Zechariah, Nathaniel, Jonah, Gideon and Caleb all of whom died before my remembrance. I also recollect hearing my father tell of his having stood sentry one night at Roxbury and in the morning the line was formed to march and he sat down and fell asleep on his gun and was dreaming that he had got home, just then the order to march was given and he sprang up and interestingly found his gun - and further the deponent saith not.
Julius Gates

Sworn to and subscribed this 20th day of October A.D. 1846 before me and I certify that the Deponent is personally known to me and is a credible person and his statement may be relied on and that the work “six” was corrected from the 22nd line and the word five inserted before the deponent signed his name hereunto -
John C. Palmer Justice of the Peace

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I Thomas H, Gates of East Haddam in Middlesex County and State of Connecticut aged forty six years having been duly cautioned examined and sworn depose and saith - that I am the son of Thomas Gates deceased and Rachel Gates who is still living and has not intermarried since the decease of said Thomas who died July 20:1826. That I have often heard my father say that he went in the place of his brother Zechariah Gates as a private under Joseph Spencer to Roxbury in the year 1775 and served out the period for which said Zechariah had enlisted, the length of time I don’t recollect but I think he went in May and staid for six months or thereabout. I think I heard my father say he had find out to Gen Spencer to work that year and commanded in April and when he had worked but a month he went into the army, and said Zechariah staid at home. I also heard my father say that he afterwards belonged to a company of light horse under Capt James Green, and was at York Island, White Plains, New Jersey, Horse Neck and Rhode Island, and other places. That he went away in August 1776 and that on coming home on first day in April following as he crossed Connecticut River then were enemy stuck in the River, but the officers would not allow him to fire at them but after camping and mounting his horse he fired his pistol at them - My father also said that he went to Rhode Island after this, in the same company and was under Gen Spencer and when they were marched off the Island at night, they saw in the morning a long ship came in the largest he ever saw, and fired several guns into the place - The length of this service I do not recollect but I have often heard him say that he was in this service altogether for almost two years. My father had five brothers Zechariah, Nathaniel, Jonah, Gideon, and Caleb all of whom died before I was born. I also recollect the story about the bottle of tea at Roxbury and we have the bottle which my father said contained it now in our house - and further saith not.
Thomas H Gates

Sworn to and dule inscribed this 20th day of October A.D. 1846 before me and I certify that Thomas H Gates the Deponent is previously known to me and is a credible person and his statement may be relied on
John C. Palmer Justice of the Peace

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I Ellen L Gates of East Haddam Middlesex County and State of Connecticut aged thirty three years having been duly cautioned examined and sworn depose and say that I am the Daughter of Thomas Gates and Rachel Gates of said East Haddam, that said Thomas died July 20th 1826, and said Rachel has not intermarried but remains his widow. That in the year 1839, I applied to J. C. Palmer to have him obtain a Pension for my Mother said Rachel Gates, and he then communicated about the business and owing to the difficulty in providing satisfactory testimony it has been delayed to this time - The old letters and papers hereunto annexed I have recently found in some barrels of old papers that were my fathers.  I have often heard my father say he was in the service and tell particulars but I cant state them as I do not distinctly remember them - and further saith not.
Ellen L. Gates

Sworn to and subscribed this 20th day of October 1846, before me and I certify that Ellen L. Gates the deponent is previously known to me and is a credible person and her statements may be relied on
John C. Palmer Justice of the Peace

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State of Connecticut
County of Middlesex} ss East Haddam Town Clerks office November 7th A.D. 1846

Thomas Gates Jr and Sarah Rowle both of East Haddam were joined in marriage May ye thirtieth day A.D. Seventeen hundred and fifty one.

Thomas ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and Sarah his wife was born January ye third day seventeen hundred fifty two.
Zechariah ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born December ye twenty ninth seventeen hundred fifty three.
Nathaniel ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born April the first day seventeen hundred fifty five.
Jonah ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and Sarah of his wife was born March ye twenty fourth day seventeen hundred fifty eight.
Sarah ye daughter of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born November ye third day seventeen hundred [strikethrough] fifty [strikethrough] sixty.
Gideon ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born February twelfth day seventeen hundred sixty two.
Caleb ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born June ye first day seventeen hundred sixty five.
Caleb ye son of Thomas Gates and Sarah his wife departed this life December nineteenth seventeen hundred sixty five.
Capt Thomas Gates departed this life June ye third day seventeen hundred seventy one and in the seventy eighth year of his age
Sarah only daughter of Thomas Gates and of Sarah his wife departed this life December the fourth day seventeen hundred seventy six and in the seventeenth year of her age.
Dorothy Gates Widow and which of Capt Thomas Gates departed this life June the twenty seventh day seventeen hundred seventy four and in the seventy first year of her age -
Jonah son of Thomas Gates and of Sarah his wife departed this life February the ninth seventeen hundred seventy seven and in the twenty first year of his age being a soldier in the Continental Army. Mr Gideon Gates departed this life September the twelfth day seventeen hundred ninety one and in the twenty ninth year of his age. Mr Nathaniel Gates departed this life at Kingston Towsen County at the Susquehannah November the seventh day seventeen hundred ninety three.

I hereby certify that the foregoing true extracts from the records of the Town of East Haddam and that in the birth of Sarah Gates the word ‘fifty’ was crossed and the word ‘sixty’ inserted before this certificate was signed by me.
D.B. Warner, Town Clerk of East Haddam

I David B Warner above named do depose and say that I hold the offices of Town Clerk in the Town of East Haddam in the County of Middlesex and State of Connecticut and that the foregoing appear to be ancient records and to have been extend many years since, and that they are true and exact copies of the record with the exception of the dates which appear on the record in fair legible figures as follow - to wit.
Thomas Gates Jr and Sarah Rowle both of East Haddam were joined in marriage May ye 30 day A.D. 1751

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Thomas ye son of Thomas Gates Jr & Sarah his wife was born January ye 3rd day A.D. 1752.
Zechariah ye son of Thomas Gates Jr & of Sarah his wife was born December ye 29 day A.D. 1753.
Nathaniel ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born April the first day A.D. 1755.
Jonah ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and Sarah of his wife was born [strikethrough} November {strikethrough} March ye 24 day 1758.
Sarah ye Daughter of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born November ye 3rd day A.D. 1760.
Gideon ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born February 12th day A.D. 1763.
Caleb ye son of Thomas Gates Jr and of Sarah his wife was born June ye first day 1765.
Caleb ye son of Thomas Gates and Sarah his wife departed this life December 19 A.D. 1765.
Capt Thomas Gates departed this life June ye 3rd day A.D. 1771 and in the 78 year of his age.
Sarah only daughter of Thomas Gates and of Sarah his wife departed this life December the 4th day 1776 and in the 17th year of her age.
Dorothy Gates Widow & which of Capt Thomas Gates departed this life June 27th day 1774 and in the 71st year of her age -
Jonah son of Thomas Gates and of Sarah his wife departed this life February 9th A.D. 1777 and in the 21st year of his age being a soldier in the Continental Army. 
Mr Gideon Gates departed this life September the 12th day 1791 & in the 29th year of his age. Mr Nathaniel Gates departed this life at Kingston Towsen County at the Susquehannah November the 7th day 1793. and further saith not.
D.B. Warner, Town Clerk of East Haddam

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and I certify that the word “fifty” and November were crossed and the words “sixty” and “March” inserted in [?] thereof in the foregoing before the same was signed by the Deponent.
John C Palmer Justice of the Peace

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State of Connecticut
County of Middlesex}ss East Haddam Town Clerks office Oct 20, 1846

Thomas Gates 2nd and Rachel Smith both of East Haddam were joined in marriage June twenty second D.D. Seventeen Hundred Eighty Eighty.
Mr Thomas Gates departed this life July twentieth Eighteen hundred twenty six.

I David B Warner Town Clerk of the Town of East Haddam do hereby certify that the foregoing are true copies of the records of said Town with the exception of the date which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures as follows.
“June 22nd A.D. 1788”
“July 20th 1826”
Daniel B Warner
Town Clerk
East Haddam

I, Daniel B Warner above named depose and say that I hold the office of Town Clerk in the Town of East Haddam County and State aforesaid, and that the above are true extracts from the records of said Town with the exception above named are certified by me, and I further say that I am acquainted with Rachel Gates Widow of said Thomas Gates, who now resides in East Haddam and that she is a person of great respectibility - and further saith not -
Daniel B Warner
Town Clerk
East Haddam

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me and the word “date” inserted before signing-
John C Palmer Justice of the Peace

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925
250
   45
100
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625

960

137
   5
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455
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685
625
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Roxbury Sept 11 year not given

To Thomas Gates
atty
East Haddam
Connecticut

There is a faint postal stamp

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Mr. Thomas Gates
East Haddam

Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

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Kensington December 17th 1776

Beloved Brother
As we are all enjoying good heath I have taken my pen to write to you hopping this may find you all injoying the same blessing that we have had is good want of kindness in our family since we met last we have all great reason for thankfulness that our lives are spared - We herde by your Harbor Porter that your daughter was dead we share in your aflixson but we must try to remember the Lord gave and the Lord taketh away I am sorry I could no come and see you and brother Timothy this fall for I know you must feel lonesome for I suppose your oldest sons who all gone into the army  My husbands brother Timothy oldest son was taken prisoner at New York and his son died and they was [copy cut off] him have a a pease of candle to see his son die but [copy cut off] trouble will end aI don’t know. He knew that [copy cut off] some [?] shod see together Timothy once who he [copy cut off] [strikethrough] good by [strikethrough] another marches Zachariah only once who [copy cut off] brothur was at Harlam but never see him was [copy cut off] Timothy had his hand burnt when he was [strikethrough] ? [strikethrough] [copy cut off] shall come down in the spring and hope to see all brothur Brainerd folks I remain your loving sister 
Dorothy Percival
My husband sends his [copy cut off] and love to all and brothers family with wishes

There is a stamp in the corner inscribed The National … The United States

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Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

Mr Thomas Gates 
East Haddam
State of Connecticut

Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

There is a stamp in the corner inscribed The National Archives of The United States

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[copy cut off]  this time and I have but little to [copy cut off] now how much longer we shall have [?] may [?] the [?] and on long island and by their movement we may expect an atack but shall be prepared to repulse them I feel anxious about my family but hope you will see to them and if you can make some arrangements to have some wheat sown I will Your son Zechariah has been sick with disentry and I tried to find where Thomas was to have him come and take care of him but it is dificult keeping touch of our troop we cant leave here so long as the British remain and when these struggles will end no one can tell I wish you to see that my crops are harvested and my family made as comfortable as can be till I come back. These are dark and eventful times but through divine providence I hope we shall be saved give my best love and respects to my family and yours with all neighbors while I am more afectionate and loving brother 
Timothy Gates
Israel Champion will take us and bring back [?]

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Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

Horse Neck
Oct 19 1776

Thomas Gates at East Haddam 
Connecticut

There is a stamp in the corner inscribed The National Archives of The United States

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Horse Neck in Connecticut Oct 19th 

Brother these Lines may inform you that I have been very sick but have got Better and as I is unlikely that I shall Do any more Duty this time. I shall Be glad if you would help me home I have got so I am able to Ride any Day I Believe I shall be at Stamford about 10 miles from N york

Yesterday the Regulars Landed on Frog point and Engaged our men they kept. up a Smart fire to Day will be a bloody Day it will be Desided this Day Likely our people I think have yet the advantage I believe our army will see them [copy cut off]  good heat
I remain yours

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Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

There is a stamp inscribed The National Archives of The United States

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Thomas Gates Plans

we should be glad to [copy cut off] [?] come we will try to make it.

Zachariah has not been home since then I have heard of the death of Jonah with the small pox at valley forge and wanted to send Gideon to see about it Thomas was drafted that spring and has not been home since but his time might to be out if he hasnt listed again my own heart is poor and I am left pretty much alone [?] for Jonah and if Nathaniel was not with him he was left in his last hour to the mercy of strangers brother Timothy with some one wanted but to get any one to take my place for every man is in the defense of his country but my boys are all within [copy cut off] am if I had four more I should be willing to [copy cut off] for but Jonah is taken and God [copy cut off] back again but I [copy cut off]

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Thomas Gates of East Haddam [?] within funds of according to the authorized and as requested of of said company under [?] has the status of an officer [?] shall be deemed necessary for the [?]

Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

There is a stamp inscribed The National Archives of The United States

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This appears to be a small piece of a document

[copy cut off] anded to received [copy cut off] ay and Satisfy, the said Sum ordered foresaid together with [?] fees any grant thereof requires Application will be Abated

14th Day of November A.D. 1777
Dyar Throop Ju th. Pec

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Samuel Wright
East Haddam

Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

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The ink on this page is very blotted and blurry

(A)
Morristown [?] Camp

Dear Friend 
[? ?] to your parents and mine [?} and hope they [?] heard from home for a long while but I went to see [?] lived of this life and want to [?] father and when [?] I will tell you [?] I hear [?] have been company about all thee [?] til January/February how I wish place gone home with [?] for father will be lonesome then wanted my heart has been sick in thought I should longer
[?] your friend Henry Gents

East Haddam
Sept. 19 1853
Wm D Shipman 
Notary Public

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Morristown
Feby 1779 +

There is a stamp inscribed The National Archives of The United States

Mr Thomas Gates
East Haddam
Connecticut

+I think this is 1777 and not 1779 Triplett

Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

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Morristown Feb 1779
Beloved parents I have not hearde a word from home since I’ve left New York but I have rote twise to East hadam but I don’t know whether your have got any of my leters I don’t know where Nathaniel nor Zachariah are I have not heard from them once since at Brooklin last [?] I have been [?] into a few weeks with a lame sholder from duty but kept enlisted so I could not get leave to come home I ought to have been discharged in the fall my time was out [?] I wish would me something about the troops are old [?] and some have left. Give my love to my our mother and old friends at home from your [?] Son Thomas Gates

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There are 2 stamps inscribed The National Archives of The United States

Nov. 9th 1787 
D’ Tho’ Gates 10- 14 [?] L1.1.1

Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

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This is a torn scrap of paper

June 6th 1781

[?] of Zachariah Gates eleven [copy cut off] [?] done for him on foot in [copy cut off] in the army [?] months and 3 weeks before
Thomas Gates

sixteen pounds which I am

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Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

There is a stamp inscribed The National Archives of The United States

48
 6
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42

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Camp at West Chester Oct 2nd 1776

Sir 
I have just rec’d Gen’el Orders wherein he says information is given of several Companys forming in this stat to join Gen’el Howe’s Army on long island. You are therefore to give strict orders to all your guards and sentinels to be very alert & Carefull to apprehend all such persons as are suspicious and cannot Give a good account of themselves and their business. In addition to your sentries let patroling parties frequently patrole in the most likely places to discover them in their attempts to get over to the Island
I am yours VC. 43
Ebens. Backus Cam’dr

To Capt Green

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White Plains 
April 20 1776

Thomas Gates
East Haddam
County of Middlesex
State of Connecticut

Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

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White Plains
April 20th 1776

Honored parents
I have took up my pen as I have just time to write a few being by Reuben Saunderson he is here and is going home tomorrow to stay a few days but I have some heavy news to communicate if you have not heard of it before it is the death of brother Jonah he was at Valley forge I don’t know what ailed him I don’t think he ever got over having [?] The [?]   I am & may not at home when he was there I am  [?] not enlisted on foot with him and then we should have been together I have not seen him for more than two years & was gone to Rhode Island The last time he was to come I mean to come home as soon as I can get leave of absense but I don’t know if I can before the troops are discharged I [?] you to remember my duty to all the family and excuse my bad writing for we cant in the camp find much to write with or any where to write it  [?] with of now  [?]  loving son Thomas Gates

There is a stamp inscribed The National Archives of The United States

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Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

There is a stamp inscribed The National Archives of The United States

Mr Thomas Gates
East Haddam

Wm D Shipman
Notary Public
East Haddam Dept. 19.1858

Copy of Records
Examined by 
George Wyllys Sec

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[B] Morristown
March 1777

Honored Parents I don’t know what where is [?] shalt [?] and bring it for them is a chance of my coming home next week with Amasa I want to see you all and I did not think when I sent last a should be kept and all winter doing erants for the whole army We have had some partly good times and I have been [?] weeks all best you should [?] and we have made so many moves that [?] but that I heard from home pretty often [?] would not know me if [?] marched to go from white Plains to fort Lee for General Washington I have not  [?] to every company in particular I have been mostly kept on expenses buying for the company horses and cattle I want to hear from Zachariah and more about Jonah and I hope for peace before long I lost my flask and [?]  had my [?] 
{The page cut off, and has folded over - it appears to be a printed page}
Thomas Gates

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Gates, Thomas
Conn. W11040

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Revolutionary Camp

Roxbury September the 10th

Loving Brothers after my respects to you and Duty to all the rest of our folks I am well and I hope this Lynes will find you so threw the goodness of god in I have no knews to write to you at presant only we are a good deal Sickly in the camp and more so in our company we are about half sick but not Dangerous only Moses Olmsted we don’t Expect his life as yet but no more at present for I am Short for paper and by your Letter you are shorter than I am so no more at presant and  I am your 
Loving Brother
Thomas Gates

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Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

Maj E Mack

Haddam  E C

2 3 3

Mrs [?] Mack Rome

Haddam

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Sagg Harbor August 30th A.D. 1776

May it please your Excellency

Sit
I have this Hour Direct Intelligence from the West End of this Island to Post that the Ministerial Army (Supposed to be about Sixteen Thousand) are on this side our Army upon the Island. Have lines acrost the Island from the Sound to the south side so that we on the East Can have no access to our Army - upon Tuesday last General Washington came over from NYork upon this Island with six thousand Men there has been several Engagements one thousand tis supposed have fallen inclusive of both Armies - tho Armies are within half a mile of each other a Constant Fire is kept up Tis supposed the grand Battle will be upon the Morrow or Next Day - We have loot killed and taken as the post says near 300 Rifle men - the Enemy have 200 horse - the Riders were to line they Day before yesterday at Hempstead they have Command of the West End of the Island intinely - the Post Rotates that upon Tuesday about 5000 Regulars attempted to Land a little below York ferry - our people met them and the Post says killed about 2000 and drove the Residue Back, We learn by the Post that the Hessians Fight terribly
Sam’l Buell

There is a stamp inscribed The National Archives of The United States

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Gates, Thomas
Conn W11040

Esq. Jeremiah Gates [?]
New London
Connecticut

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There is a large tear in the middle of the letter

East Haddam March the 1 1796

Beloved Carson
I am thretned to be sued by the town for some powder that I endorsed a note for for your brother Daniel I believe these was almost 20  pounds and it was a dollar a pound they wouldent let Daniel have the powder without my name I don’t feel able to pay for it and don’t think its right I should [tear in the paper] as wanted to any on the war [?] [tear in the paper] time in the army and got little or nothing for it [tear in the paper] weve got our [?] and I should think the town might lose the pounds I want you to come up and see something about it as soon as you can for it must be done soon father and mother send their respects to you and your wife
From your loving cousin
Thomas Gates Jun

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NOTEBOOK OF THOMAS GATES 
(CONN.) W 11040
1775-1778

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[?] Cone

Don’t forget Anne Ames when you get home and and tell Mr Thomas Gates his son Thomas is  sick Samuel

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Paid for house 39 10

Thomas Gates 
Harlem
Like you, an alien in a land unknown I learn to pity woes. I like mine and like you an alien in a home unknown I learn to pity woes, So like mine own.

Anne Jennings
Harlem September 1776

Like you an alien in a land unknown
I learn to pitty woes so like mine own 
So take this little lock of hair and keep it for my say and wait
Anne Jennings

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to weving 12 yards of cozy at 6 a yard
to wevings
to wevings 6 [?] at 10 apers
to weving 18 ahalf of wolen
to weving 8 and of [?] 
Some but no leve to go home

Thomas Gates

May the 1 vvis
Amasa Achley: [?]
Josiah Rogers: [?]
Joseph Warner: [strikethrough] ? [strikethrough] here
Jonah Cone: [strikethrough] ? [strikethrough] here
as of united of [?]; [?]

July 8th 1775
Have weekend with Mr Thomas Gates and [?]  L 8d
9 balance account.      2.36
to weving 12 of tables
[?] 6 yards. 0-4-0
to weving and handkerchief 0-3-0
& 10 yards of wolen
cloth at 6 yards  0-2-7
to wevings & to of worsted  0-3-2
at 6
to weving 10 ½ of cozy  0-8-4 ½
to weving 10 of [?] weave at 10 a yard  0-3--
[?] 9 yards check [?] 8..

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Thomas Gates Sargent 

June 25 1775
Ken returned with L8
[?] Gates and [?]
balance accounts 0.100
1 weving of worsted 0-2-0
[?] 3 ½ of wolen 0.2.4
[?]

May 7th 1777
Sarah Roggers: [strikethrough] mark [strikethrough]
Joseph Annabel; [strikethrough] mark [strikethrough]
Ira Curch: [?]
Salvenus Cone: [strikethrough] mark [strikethrough] hon
Thomas Hall: [strikethrough] mark [strikethrough] hon
June Timothy Pattison: [strikethrough] mark [strikethrough]
William Curth: [?]
Sherer Lyon a horse and a good rider

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October 1 1776 then got leve to go to Brooklyn to carry dispaches to fort Lee from that post but lamed my horse above New york and borrod one of Matheus Wyatt promising hime mine if I don’t brin back hiren safe Thomas Gates

Away from home in a strange land fiting for our Lives I wish Sergeant Gates would [?] our return home

Mrs Gelcy
Will you pyt your proper annimal fingers into my Diabolical noze and take a pinch [?] to gratified youre norstril

Mr Thomas Gates 2nd if you will come over to Brooklin before you leve I will change horse with you if your is the gray mare you had of Dalton
John Smithson

12-
 8-4
8-4
10-0

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Eartha came December 10 177. then began to work to pulling logs
Cut 40 Logs of wood for Mrs Deaton

December the 4th 1778
then cut wood for Mr Patton

May 4 1778
John Andrews per per no [?]

East Haddam [?] then Thomas Gates  L for cash 3.5
he bought H bill & Richard Sparrow

This 6th August 1778
We have reached [?] but find little doing give my complins to Patty Dean.
young Tom Gates from [?] Sprios to day

To [?] james 0 4 4 to horse and hay to go to morristown

You will take charge of Mr Westcots letter and deliver to him out White Plans without letting brother Roger know I sent it I send you shirts and this by Ceser and hope you will have a good lunch and not be work again from your friend
Anne Jennings
Harlin Seselianber

Page 47

1778
Newport August
Dear Brother
I heard yesterday that my father was sic and I wish he would get sombody to take my place and let me com home last night I was standing sentry  Hanson thougt he hearde a nois and crept over a little way and came back and saw the British was group but we shall not stay here long I want 

March 9 1778
we give the alarm before They came to our lives and then we thought there would be fighting but they moves of again I hope 
Thomas Parson preached at youre house

[?] his H Grable to my dejet to [?] this evening with [?] if it be so with you Keep this Billet and if not  then if of youre unwilling I grant the favor of the Returning this Billet
I am by your Brother Isaac 
I shall have to away soon with your father
Thomas Gates
To Misses Spencer

Page 48

March 26th 1778
then got mee a pare of ston buttons wich cost Seaven shillings
December the 24th 1778
then got my saddle and pistols fixed

January the 6:1778
then paid Cap Samuel Gates LS6

to come home I am tired of being sent from one post to another some of our men are sick and A sol Andrews has been month no more at present 
Your affectionate brother 
Thomas Gate 2nd
I am in want of some [?]

Page 49

Mr Abner Hall and Others
SelectMan of East Haddam

Page 50

communicating fully to you, I think you would satisfy you that the Note ought to be cancelled - But just recovering from sickness I am not able at preset to be particular - and can only repeat that I wish it may rest for the present

I am your humble Servant

J G Brainard

Page 51

New London March 14th 1796

Gentleman
It seems that you hold in Behalf of the town a Note of mint Mr Thomas Gates Given for some Powder which he gave for my Brother - and that in first is Threatened to be commenced upon it -

As I am satisfied that the Note ought not to be paid I wish the Matter might rest untill I could have an Opportunity of seing same of you Gentlemen expecting it - the same Business was on the Carpet a few years ago and I wrote to the then SelectMen about it and as I thought convinced them that the Note ought not to be paid.

There are many facts within my own Knowledge respecting the Powder which if I could have an opportunity of commu-

Page 52

Revolution Connicttcut

Widow	, &c. over

File No. 11048
Rachel Gates
Wid
Thomas Gates
Pri Rev War

Act: Feb 2nd 48

Index:-Vol. A, Page 263

[Arrangement of 1870]

Page 53

Typed form completed in handwriting

11.575
Connecticut
Rachel Gates
widow of Thomas who died on the --- of --- in the State of Connecticut who was a Private of Infantry and Cavalry in the --- commanded by Captain --- of the --- commanded by --- in the Revolution [strikethrough] time for [strikethrough] 6 mos 21 days pri of Infantry, 12 mos --- pri in Cavalry

Inscribed on the Roll of Hartford at the rate of 72 Dollars 22 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.

Certificate of Pension issued the 4th day of November 1833 and sent to John C. Palmer

Arrears to the 4th of
Semi-annual allowance ending } Hartford Count

{Revolutionary Claim, Act July 7, 1838.}
Recorded by H.R. Weightman Clerk, Book L Vol. 6 Page 33

Page 54

Typed form completed in handwriting

9.447
Connecticut
Rachel Gates
Widow of Thomas
who was a Private of infty & Cavalry in the Revolution

Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 72 Dollars and 22 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843

Certificate of Pension issued the 4th day of Nov’r /33 and sent to John C. Palmer, Hartford Ct:

[Acts of March 3, 1843, & June 17, 1844]

Recorded in Book A, Vol. 2 Page 33

Page 55

No 13118
Rachel Gates
Conn
Let to J.C. Palmer
[?] 1-46
to [?] May 25 ‘47

act July 1838

[Acts of March 3, 1843, & June 17, 1844]

Recorded in Book A, Vol. 2 Page 33

Page 56

This page is too faint to transcribe

Page 57

Hartford Oct 27. 1853

Hon L. P. Waldo
Commi of Pensions

Dr Sir.

Some 4 weeks since I mailed to your address the supplementary evidence in the case of Rachael Gates.

Not having heard from you I fear it has miscarried.

Will you oblg me by stating whether it is read.

Your Obie’t Serv’t
J. C. Palmer

Page 58

Rachel Gates
Widow. of Thomas 
CT
Adm: July 7 1838
6 mos & 2100 pri Inf $22.22
12 mo pri L Horse.       50
                                        ------
                                        $72.22
per annum from
4th March 1836
2 yr excepted

Cert to John C. Palmer
Hartford

Page 59

I E. Lavinia Lee of the City & County of Hartford in the State of Connecticut aged thirty nine years having been duly cautioned examined and sworn depose and say that I am the daughter of Rachael Gates of East Haddam in Middlesex County the widow of Thomas Gates deceased.

That some years since the said Rachael made application for a Pension on account The Revolutionary Services of my Father the said Thomas Gates, and that a number of letters and papers then found by me were annexed to a deposition given by me at that time. That I afterwards mention from J.C. Palmer that the application was suspended. That same time afterwards in searching among old papers in the house where said Rachel lives and where I lived until my removal to Hartford some three years since. I found the [?] for ever sharp signed by said Thomas Gates dated June 6th 1781 which is annexed to this deposition and that said receipt was then in all respects that it is.

That about the 22nd of August 1853 I was on a visit to my Mothers in East Haddam, and that day or within a day or two of that Edmund Smith handled the two letters signed by Thomas Gates and annexed to the

Page 60

Deposition of the said Edmund Smith as shown to me, into my hand and possession, which I handed to my husband to deliver to J. C. Palmer.

That I have no previous knowledge of the existence of any of the papers herein referred to than what is above stated.

That said Rachael is still living for aught I heard or have heard, and is still the widow of said Thomas Gates, and resides at said East Haddam.

And further the deponent saith not
Ellen Lavinia Lee

State of Connecticut Hartford County ss
Sworn to and subscribed this 24th day of September A.D. 1853. before me a Notary Public in and for the state of Connecticut and I certify that Ellen Lavinia Lee the deponent is personally known to me and is a credible person and her statements may be relied on. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my signature and official seal on the day and year last above written
John C. Palmer
Notary Public

There is an affixed seal and ribbon.

Page 61

State of Connecticut
County of Middlesex}ss
On this nineteenth day of June 1847. Personally appeared before the County Court for said Middlesex County, present John C Palmer Judge of said Court holding same, said court being a Court of Record having a Clerk and Seal Rachel Gates a resident of the Tow of East Haddam in said County aged seventy seven years who being first duly sworn according to Law doth on her oath make the following supplementary Declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed July 7th 1838, entitled as Act granting half pay and Pensions to certain Widows” and the several Acts in addition then to and in alteration thereof - That she is the Widow of Thomas Gates Jr or 2nd formerly of said East Haddam now deceased, who was a private and sergeant in the army of the Revolution and served therein during the Revolutionary Was as follows as she verily believes -

First. That he served as a substitute for his brother Zechariah Gates in the 1st Co 2nd Regt. raised per order General Assembly Colony of Connecticut May A.D. 1775, by enlistment for 8 months as a private on foot for six months and twenty one days under Capt Joseph Spencer from the 27th May 1775 to the 17th December of that year at the end near Roxbury Mass

Second. That said Thomas Gates 2nd served as a private and sergeant in a Company of Light Horse of which James Green was Captain being 2nd Co 2nd Regt from the 15th July 1776 to the 15th of April 1777 by order of the Council of Safety dated July 2, 1776 under Col Gould S Silliman, Lt Col Thomas Seymour and Major Throop and Backus and was stationed at Horseneck: White Plains and other places in that vicinity and employed in guarding the Coast, Carrying expresses and such other duties as best to subscribe the cause of his country - That his company was of the Regiment that of Connecticut River, and it is not claimed or believed by her that Capt Green served this whole period but that the letters of said Thomas Gats establish the fact that he died as she believes - a period of 9 months.

Third, that said Thomas performed service for a period of three months or more under Gen Joseph Spencer in the Fall of 1777 at New London & Rhode Island

Page 62

Fourth, That said Thomas Gates was drafted in the first part of March 1778 for a period of three months and served as one of the Light Horse under Col Silliman at White Plains and vicinity for this period and did not return home until the first of May in that year.

Fifth - That said Thomas Gates was drafted into the service as one of said Company of Light Horse about the 20th of July 1778 for the period of two months and went to New London, and Newport under Gen Spencer. That he reached Newport on the 6th day of August 1778 and remined there for this period for which he was drafted - as she verily believes - that she cannot state the particulars of his service, but she claims service as private and sergeant for twenty three months and three weeks. That as proof of the services at Roxbury in 1775 in place of Zechariah Gates she submits a receipt hereto annexed from said Thomas to said Zechariah which exactly covers the time 6 mons 21 days of that service and also refer to the letter and proofs accompanying this and her former Declaration.

She further declares that she was married to the said Thomas Gates for Jr on the twenty second day of June seventeen hundred eighty eight. That her husband the aforesaid Thomas Gates Jr died at East Haddam on the 20th day of July 1826. That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place previous to the first day of January seventeen hundred ninety four to wit all the term stated-
Rachel Gates

Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written Before me
John C Palmer Judge of the Co Court for Middlesex County.

Page 63

Revolutionary Papers
Rachel Gates
Suspended
Connecticut

filed 23 Sept 1852
F.E. Hassler

Page 64

Typed document completed in handwriting

POWER OF ATTORNEY

For ascertaining whether any increase or arrears of Pension are due the Widow of heirs of Revolutionary Pensioner, &c*

STATE OF Connecticut
COUNTY OF Middlesex}

Be it known that before me a --- personally appeared Rachael Gates aged 82 years, who being duly cautioned and then sworn in due form of law, states that she is the Widow of Thomas Gates 2nd who was a Revolutionary** in the State of Connecticut and that he died on the 20th day of July 1826 and that --- mother named --- died on the --- day of --- 18-- and that [strikethrough] they [strikethrough] we were married on the 22nd day of June in the year 1788 and that [strikethrough] they [strikethrough] I am were residents of East Haddam in the State of Connecticut and that they resided there --- years, and that she now resides in East Haddam and that furthermore I BY THESE PRESENTS, constitute [strikethrough] s [strikethrough], appoint [strikethrough] s [strikethrough], and fully empower [strikethrough] s [strikethrough], and authorize [strikethrough] s [strikethrough]. irrevocably and with powers of substitution, F. E. HASSLER, of Washington city, D. C., as my true and lawful Attorney for me and in my name and stead, to examine into, to prosecute, to demand, and to receive from the U. S. Government and State officers with rights in all and in any manner of claim for increase or arears of Pension or Land, that may be due me as the widow of Thomas Gates Jr who died leaving the same undrawn, as in right of law I may be entitled.

IN WITNESS WEREOF, I had on this 1st day of Sept 1852 hereunto signed my name, and affixed my seal.
Rachael Gates   [There is a drawing of a seal]

Witness: J Eben Ackley
Witness John J Bartman}

Signed, sealed, acknowledged, and sworn to before me; and I further certify, that Rachael Gates has always by the community has been known as the wife of the aforesaid Thomas Gates 2nd.
Dated on this 1st day of Sept 1852
Wm H Cone Justice of Peace  J.P.

State of Connecticut
COUNTY of Middlesex} to wit: East Haddam September 2nd 1852
I hereby certify, that William H Cone Esq., before whom the foregoing affidavits and acknowledgement were made, and who has hereunto subscribed his name, was at the time of so doing a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn, and that his signative above written is genuine.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of --- County Court, this --- day of --- one thousand eight hundred and ---
Alfred Gates Town Clerk.

*If a Widow applies, state “the date of marriage, and date of death of her husband.”
** State under what act pensioned, or when pension commenced, if a pensioner - and amount of pension.

Page 65


I Edmund Smith of East Haddam in the County of Middlesex and State of Connecticut aged forty six years having been duly cautioned examined and sworn depose and say that I reside in the neighborhood of Rachael Gates of said East Haddam and have known the said Rachel ever since my earliest recollection, and was well acquainted with her husband Thomas Gates to the time of his decease - That said Rachael has not intermarried since the decease of the said Thomas and is still living in said East Haddam. That one afternoon in the latter part of the month of August 1853, I was at the house formerly occupied by Samuel Wright in said East Haddam which is on the opposite side of the highway from the house wherein said Thomas Gates and Rachael Gates have resided ever since my recollection, and where said Thomas died, and while there was examining some old papers, and among them I found the two letter hereto annexed marked (A. & B.) and purporting to be signed by Thomas Gates, and dated Morristown Camp Feb 4. 1777. and Morristown Camp April 1777. The one marked (A.) addressed to Samuel Wright East Haddam, and the one marked (B) addressed to Thomas Gates East Haddam. and that I delivered said letter on the same day to Lavinia Lee the daughter of said Rachael Gates. That said Thomas Gates was always reported to have served in the Revolutionary War, and I used to hear him tell the particulars of his service but cannot recollect them distinctly, and further saith not.
Edmund Smith

Page 66

State of Connecticut
County of Middlesex} East Haddam 
Sept 19.1853

Personally appeared Edmund Smith named within and swore to and subscribed the within affidavit before me, and I certify that the Deponent Edmund Smith is personally know to me and is a credible person and his statements may be relied on.

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 19th day of September AD 1853
Wm D. Shipman
Notary Public

Page 67

I know all men by these presents that I Rachael Gates of East Haddam in Middlesex County and State of Connecticut do hereby constitute and appoint John C Palmer of said East Haddam my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name and behalf to prosecute my claim for a Pension under the Several Acts of the Congress of the United States on account of the Revolutionary Services of my decreased husband Thomas Gates, and with full power to do all things in the premises that I can lawfully do, hereby revoking all powers of attorney by me heretofore executed in this behalf and especially a power of attorney to F.E. Hassler of Washington City dated Sept 1. 1852 and filed at the Pension Officer Sept 23. 1852.
Rachael Gates

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 19th day of September AD 1853.
In presence of 
Wm. D. Shipman

State of Connecticut
County of Middlesex}ss East Haddam September 19, 1853

Personally appeared Rachael Gates above named aged Eighty three years, who acknowledge the above and foregoing power of Attorney to be her free act and deed, the day and year above written [strikethrough] and active [strikethrough] before me

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and official seal the day and year above written
Wm D. Shipman
Notary Public

There is an attached seal

Page 68

13118

No 13118
Rachael Gates
Widow of Thomas
Con
Act 7 July 1838
Married 1788
husband died 1836

Page 69

State of Connecticut
County of Middlesex} ss.
I John Fisk Clerk of the County Court for said Middlesex County, do hereby certify that the foregoing contain the original proceedings of said Court in the matter of the Application of Rachel Gates for a Pension. That John C Palmer is sole Judge of said County Court and that his commission bears date the 12th day of June 1846 and expires June 20th 1847 and that the signature to the certificate on the Declaration of said Rachel Gates purporting to be his is his true genuine and proper signature - That said John C Palmer is now and for seven years but part has been a Justice of the Peace for said Middlesex County and has been legally and duly commissioned as such and that his present commission bears date June 19th 1846 and expires June 20th 1847 and that several signatures the certificates to the deposition of Samuel Lord, Mary Lord, Joshua Cone, Thomas H. Gates, Ellen L. Gates and Daniel B Warner purporting to be his and his own genuine and proper signatures

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at Middletown at the October Term of said Court this 10th day of November A.D. 1846
Jno Fisk

There is an attached seal

Page 70

East Haddam Conn. Nov 9th 1846

Hon J. L. Edwards.

Dr Sir.
I have the honor to forward the Application of Rachel Gates of this Town for a Pension. The case has been in my hands for a long time, indeed ever since the Fall of 1839 and the chief service of her husband Thomas Gates having been in a Company of Light Horse, and having examined in great difficulty in finding the requisite proof it has been delayed till quite recently, when by chance the Daughter of Mrs Gates found among a lot of rubbish in some barrels in an old house formerly occupied by the family. The said papers which are forwarded I now feel encouraged to serve the application of John Olmsted on behalf of his widow, he being dead, for a pension to the time of his death as she was not married prior to 1794 as I think. Inasmuch as the letter from Thomas Gates Jr. are strongly corroborative of the statement of Mr. Olmstead. The service of the Light Horse was so disconnected from that of the other Troops that it is impossible to find living witnesses of the particulars of their service, and I find on examination at the Comptrollers Office that no rolls of them Co. were even made and returned them , and that the settlement with Gen Silliman, Col Seymour, Major Backus & Gen Shipman an in aggregate - I think the letter and proper however carry conviction as the pair of them, and the fragment of a letter evidently a copy of a part of a letter from Thomas Gates the Father to some relation breaths a spirit of patriotism that is truly animating - That Thomas Gates Jr served at Roxbury for Zechariah in 1775 seems clear to me, as his in his letter speaks of ‘Moses Olmstead of our Company being sick” who it appears was discharged shortly after, also in corroboration of the statements of his sons as to the ‘Tea & bottle” that ‘our Father” took it. I find that two of that name were in Capt Spencers Company at that time, by the pay roll at Hartford, of which I was ignorant as well as they when I took the Depositions - There is not a member of that Company now living I believe. I cannot doubt the contents of the Statement of Thomas Gates Jr. in his letter to J. G. Brainard of 1797 that he served for about two years, and as I knew him well before his death as a person of standing and strict

Page 71

integrity of character.
(Which last quality is equally applicable to the remnant of the family) I can but hope that the application of his Widow with the proofs will be satisfactory, and receive your favorable consideration - 

Any communication on the subject may be directed to 
Your Very Ob’t Servt
John C Palmer

Page 72


East Haddam Feb 12 1847

Hon J. L. Edwards

Dr Sir.
I have the honor to forward the enclosed additional evidence in support of the application of Hannah Farger which I trust will be satisfactory - In relation to Rachel Gate’s claim. I think the letter of Thomas Gates dated at Roxbury referring as it does to Moses Olmstead as of the same Company and sick, coupled with the fact of his death being entered on the roll a few days after, and other circumstances stated by the witnesses leave no doubt that said Thomas performed this service, and although the credit appears to Zechariah Gates, who enlisted or was drafted for this period, this is explained by the part that Thomas went as his substitute, and no mention of it in all probability would have been made on the roll. They were Brothers residing near and well known to General Spencer, and took an active part in the war, and I do not see how any man can read the letter of Thomas Gates without being satisfied that he served for a period of nearly two years. We do not suppose that Capt Green was much in service, and the fact that he was not, and made no record or rolls of his men as who also the case of others, and their Light horses being sent from post to post was the reason of the account of Gen Silliman remaining so long unsettled and finally referred to Mr Root I think for settlement . A gentleman in Hartford informed me that it had always been said by them who were in the service that Gen Silliman suffered great injustice in the settlement of his account arising from the causes T. Gates says in one of his letters dated Feb or March 1778 I think ‘we ought to have been discharged last fall” if his service was but for two months and he was called out in August previous, how came he then at this time, and why make such a remark. Every thing in the letter and proof is altogether immeasurable with any idea of 2 months service only - If I can furnish any thing to make the case more clear I will do so cheerfully, but I am at a loss when to look for it.
Your Ob’t Servt
John C Palmer

Page 73

Sharp’s Rifle Manufacturing Company,

Hartford, Conn, Sept 26th 1853.

Hon L.P. Waldo
Comms of Pensions.

Dr Sir.
I have the honor to forward to you the Supplementary Affidavit of Rachael Gates for a Pension with the affidavits of Edmund Smith, and Ellen Lavinia Lee formerly Gates identifying the papers, and a revocation of the power of Attorney given by said Rachael to F. C. Hassler.

I think the proofs make out 23 mos 21 days very satisfactory.

Your Obed’t Servt
John C Palmer

Page 74

Typed form completed in handwriting

Brief in the case of Rachel Gates widow of Thomas 
County and State of Connecticut
acts July 7 1838 &c

Claim, (“original,” [strikethrough] or “for increase” [strikethrough] )

Proof exhibited, (if original.)

Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Her proof of service, see a number of original Documents filed showing him in service and receipt - for pay for service as a substitute for his brother. For identity, see affidavits of Mary Lord, Samuel Lord, Julius Gates & Tho. H Gates.

(If for increase.)

Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Certified to be credible - Record of Marriage

Name and residence of Agent
[strikethrough] Nathan [strikethrough] John C. Palmer Esq
Hartford Ct

Thornton Triplett
Examining Clerk.

Page 75

I. Mary Lord of East Haddam Middlesex County & State of Connecticut aged Seventy Five years being duly cautioned examined and sworn depose and say that I was formerly well acquainted with Thomas Gates now deceased the husband of Rachel Gates. That in the month of August 1776 said Thomas Gates, then Thomas Gates Jr went into the service as a private in a Company of Troop of which Capt James Green was commandant , Jonathan Deming Lieut & Elijah Metcalf Ensign and was stationed at Horse Neck and White Plains. My Father & Asahel Andrews was with him in this same Company & many others that I knew all of whom are dead My Father came home the last of October 1776 or 1st of Nov on a furlough of two weeks. I recollect the time as my sister was sick and died Oct 25, 1776 a few days before he came home. He did not return as the troop was discripted about the time that his furlough expired, and Thomas Gates then came home - I have often heard Mr. Thomas & my Father talk of their having been there for this period, and have always understood that said Thomas went to Rhode Island and Roxbury and then John to the Eastward but do not recollect the particulars.
Mary Lord

Sworn to and subscribed on the 16th day of February A.D. 1840 before me and I certify that Mary Lord the deponent is personally known to me and is a credible person and her statements may be relied on
John C Palmer Justice of the Peace

Page 76

I . Samuel Lord of East Haddam in Middlesex County & State of Connecticut aged Eighty Six years being duly cautioned examined & sworn depose and say. That I was well acquainted with Thomas Gates of said East Haddam to the time of his death and well recollect that said Thomas was in the service as a private in Capt. Greens Company of Troop in the Fall of 1776 stationed at Horseneck- He also told me he was at White Plans at Rhode Island, Roxbury and other places, but having been myself in the service do not know of this primarily but believe he served as has stated- His brother Jonah died at Valley Forge in March 1778 & was in my company. Eliphalet Holmes Capt. Gen Huntngtons Brigade Josiah Stern Regr. Rachel Gates the widow of said Thomas is now living and since his death has remained [?] and unmarried - and resided in said East Haddam
Samuel Lord

Sworn to and subscribed on the 16th day of February A.D. 1840 before me and I certify that Samuel Lord the deponent is personally known to me and is a credible person and his statements may be relied on.
John C Palmer Justice of the Peace

I Joshua Cone of East Haddam in the County of Middlesex and State of Connecticut aged Eighty Eight years, having been duly cautioned, examined & sworn depose and say that I was formerly acquainted with Thomas Gates Jr now deceased of said East Haddam and that in the year 1776 in the month of [strikethrough] August [strikethrough] September on the 10th day I went in a Company of Militia Capt Jonathan Olmstead to East Chester, and to Morrison Point and Kingsbridge, White Plains and Rye Ponds, and served till some time in November when I was discharged- That while I was then I recollect that a company of Light Horse from East Haddam was then of which James Green was Captain, the light horse were employed in carrying expresses and other duties. I recollect a few of said Company who were then but none that are now living. Said Thomas Gates was older than myself and whether he was in the service at this period or not I dont

Page 77

recollect, but I am positive Capt Green was then - and further saith not.
Joshua Cone

Sworn to and subscribed on the 19the day of October A.D. 1848 before me and I certify that Joshua Cone the Deponent is personally known to me and is a credible person and his statements may be relied on-
John C Palmer Justice of the Peace-

I further certify that the word ‘August” was crossed and the word September was inserted in said deposition before the same was signed by deponent
John C Palmer Justice of the Peace

Page 78

Anno Regni Regis Georgii Tertii 14th

At a General Assembly of the Governor and Company of the English Colony of Connecticut in New England, in America, holden at Hartford, in said Colony, on the 2nd Thursday of May, being the twelfth day ofsaid month, and continued by several adjournments until the 4th day of June next following - 
Annoque Domini 1774

This Assembly do establish James Green to be Captain of the First Troop of Horse, in the Twelfth Regiment in this Colony.

This Assembly do establish Jonathan Deming to be Lieutenant of the First Troop of Horse in the Twelfth Regiment in this Colony.

This Assembly do establish Elijah Metcalf to be Cornet of the First Troop of Horse, in the Twelfth Regiment in this Colony.

At a General Assembly of the Governor and Company of the English Colony of Connecticut in New England, in America holden at Hartford, in said Colony, on the 2nd Thursday of May, (being the 9th day of said month,) and continued by several adjournments until the 8th day of June following - Annoque Domini 1776

Page 79

Be it enacted by the Governor, Council and Representatives, in General Court Assembled, and by the authority of the same, That all the troops of horse in this Colony shall be formed into regiments of light horse, as followeth: viz. that the troops of horse in the First, Second, Sixth, Seventh, Tenth and Twenty-third Regiments of Militia be and they are hereby made and declared to be one entire and distinct Regiment of Light Horse, and shall be distinguished and called by the name of the First Regiment. That the troops of horse in the Third, Eighth, Twelfth, Twentieth and Twenty-fifth Regiments of Militia be and they are hereby made and declared to be one entire and distinct Regiment of Light Horse, and shall be distinguished and called by the name of the Second Regiment: That the troops of horse in the Fourth, Ninth and Sixteenth Regiments of Militia be and they are hereby declared to be one entire and distinct Regiment of Light Horse, and shall be distinguished and called by the name of the Third Regiment. That the troops of horse in the Fifth, Eleventh, Nineteenth, Twenty-first and Twenty-Second Regiments of Militia be, and they are hereby declared to be one entire and distinct Regiment of Light Horse, and shall be distinguished and called by the name of the Fourth Regiment. That the troops of horse in the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, Fifteenth, Seventeenth and Eighteenth Regiments of Militia be, and they are hereby declared to be one entire and distinct Regiment of Light Horse, and shall be distinguished and called by the name of the Fifth Regiment: That there shall be only one Colonel and one Lieutenant Colonel to command the whole and one Major in each of said regiments from time to time

Page 80

appointed by the General Assembly, who shall be commissioned by the Governor of this Colony for the time being. And the said Colonel, Lieutenant Colonel and the Major of each of said Regiments shall be subject to the command of the General or Commander-in-Chief of the Militia for the time being and shall have the same duties, powers and authority as the officers of the same rank in the regiments of militia already by law have: and said regiments of Light Horse shall be liable to such regimental duty as the regiments of Militia are already by law liable. And be if further enacted, That every trooper already enlisted in any troop of Light Horse in this Colony, shall equip himself with arms and accoutrements according to law, within three months next after the rising of this Assembly; and that every person that shall hereafter enlist into any of said troops of Light Horse, shall within six months next after his enlistment, equip and accoutre himself as aforesaid, and in default thereof, such trooper or troopers shall be reduced to the foot company or companies within the limits of which they inhabit, and be liable to do duty in the same, as he or they were before they enlisted into such troop as aforesaid, - any law or usage to the contrary notwithstanding.

As a General Assembly of the Governor and Company of the English Colony of Connecticut, in New England, in America, holden at Hartford in said

Page 81

Colony, by special order of the Governor, on the fourteenth day of June, Annoque Domini, 1776

This Assembly do appoint Gold Selleck Silliman, Esq, to be Colonel of the Regiments of Horse in this Colony, as established by this Assembly in May last.

This Assembly do appoint Capt Ebenezer Backus to be Major of the Fourth Regiment of Horse, established as aforesaid.

State of Connecticut
Office of Secretary of State]

I hereby certify, that the foregoing are true copies of record in this Office.

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State of Connecticut
Comptrollers Office
Hartford 30.October 1846

I Certify that on application for evidence of the service of Thomas Gates Jun’r in the war of the Revolution, I have examined the documents remaining in this office relating to that war, and find a paper headed - “A Pay Roll of the 1st Company of the 2nd Reg’t raised for order General Assembly Colony Connecticut May A.D.1775” - In which, Brigand’ General Joseph Spencer is entered as commander - and in which I find the names of Zachariah Gates, who is stated to have served 7 months & 9 days from 8 May. The name of Jonah Gates as serving 5 Months & 8 days from 10 May and of Moses Olmsted as serving 4 Months & 17 days from the 9th of May - The name of Thomas Gates pvt is not on this Roll.

In the Journal of the Governor & Council of Safety”, under the date of September 5th 1776, is this entry - 
“Noted - That all the Troops of Horse in this colony that are East of Connecticut River be ordered forthwith to march towards New York as far as West Chester there to wait further orders, in order to cooperate with the Continental Troops in defending against our common enemies.”

And in the same Journal the following entries, under date of 2nd July 1776, -
“It is therefore Resolved & ordered by this Board, that the three Regiments of Light Horse lately established, and in the West side of Connecticut River, be and they are hereby ordered and directed forthwith to set forward and march to New York, well equipped & furnished for the assistance and succor of the Army there, and to be under the command of the commander in chief in that department, to remain till such time as the Battallion 
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ordered by the General Assembly for the service shall arrive, and no longer than the General shall judge necessary and they can be or duly dismissed. And as an encouragement to their ready exertions & services, the said Troops may expect such reasonable pay, wages & allowance as the Hon'd Continental Congress, or the General Assembly in their wisdom & justice shall appoint & allow, and they need not fear, but the same will be just & satisfactory. - And it is further Resolved and ordered that the sum of one thousand pounds be advanced out of the Public Treasury to avail them in their march, and to be accounted for on settlement of their Pay Rolls - and that the same be put into the hands of Lieut Colonel Seymour to be properly distributed for that purpose” -

“And it is further Noted & Resolved That Lieut Colonel Thomas Seymour Chief officer of said Regiment of Light Horse, in “the absence of Col’ Silliman, be and he is hereby ordered and directed to transmit necessary orders for the purposes hereof to the several Majors of said Regiments and other proper officers, and to use his utmost efforts in conjunction with them to hasten the preparation & march of said Troops, & to head conduct them, under their other proper officers, in & for the service aforesaid.”

I also find in the account of the late “Pay Table Office”, an acct will General Joseph Spencer - who is credited 13 Dec 1775 for his company at Roxbury L2061.19.11 ¼ - Also an acct. headed  - “Militia under General Spencer to Rhode Island 1776 & 1777-8” in which are entered the amn’t of various “Pay Rolls, Bills &c”, accounting in all to L2.379.1.5-

Also this entry, ---“1776.July 4 Col. Tho’s. Seymour D’’. To order a Treasurer in Acct for his Light Horse to New York ..L1000.” and June 5, 1782, he is credited “By cash paid several Officers of his Horse ordered to New York in 1776 by Council of Safety - Specie L723.21.0” - And on the same day various sums in case are charged to sundry officers, as being paid to them by Col’ Tho,’ Seymour.-- over-

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Gould S. Silliman, beginning July 4, 1776 ending Nov. 4, 1783 in  [word cut off] are various charges of money entrusted to him to pay officers said acco’ts rend’ therefor, &c. - It is believed that General Silliman served during the war near the Lines in Fairfield County in the Militia.

Mason Cleveland, Comptroller
By E Benjamin, Chief Clerk.