Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 4533, Robert M Wilson, Navy. Penn Agency And Residence

SERVICE
NUMBER
Navy
Wilson, Robert M.
N 4533
Janet
Penn Agency residence
CONTENTS

no 5286 Janet Wilson, of Robert M. Wilson Pennsylvanian

Declaration
1836
In order to obtain the benefit of the third section of the act of Congress of the 4 th July
State of Pennsylvania } ss
On this 9 th day of February eighteen hundred & forty one, personally appeared before the Hon. Joseph M c Donan one of the Judges of the Court of General Sessions of the City and County of Philadelphia, Janet Wilson, a resident of the said County of Philadelphia and of the State of Pennsylvania, aged seventy six years , who being first duly sworn according to Law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed July 4 th 1836: That she is the widow of Robert M c Wilson, who was a Boatswain in the service of the United States, during the war of the Revolution; having served with Capt n Joshua Barney for several years, and until discharged from the service in the year 1784, for which the said Robert enjoyed a pension until the time of his decease.
She further declared that she was married to the said Robert M c Wilson, on the sixth day of June, in the year seventeen hundred and eighty three; that her husband, the aforesaid Robert M c Wilson died on the twenty second day of December eighteen hundred and forty; and that she has remained a widow ever since that period, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed.
Janet her X Wilson marks
Sworn and subscribed, on the day and year above written, before me, one of the Judges of the Court of General Sessions of the City & County of Philadelphia
Joseph M c DONAN
I do certify that Janet Wilson the above named applicant is unable by bodily infirmity to attend in open Court
Joseph M c DONAN

Janet Wilson the applicant within named doth being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration to wit: That she is unable by reason of bodily infirmity to be

Mary Wilson of the County of Philadelphia, being first duly sworn according to law, doth depose and say that she is the daughter of Robert M Wilson & Janet Wilson, and that her father has frequently told her during his life time, that he was married to Janet Wilson the present applicant for a pension under the act of Congress passed July 4. 1836. on the sixth day of June seventeen hundred and eighty three.
Mary M Wilson
Sworn to before me this 9th: Feby. A.D. 1841.
In M. D. VIIII Phil a City and County, ss.
I, William D. Rine, Esq. clerk of the Court of General Sessions for the City and County of Phil a do certify that the Honorable Joseph M. Moran Esq. by whom the foregoing attestation is made whose name is thereto subscribed, was at the time of making thereof, and still is, one of the Associate Judges of the Court of General Sessions as aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn, to all whose acts as such full faith and credit are and ought to be given, as well in Courts of Indicture, as elsewhere.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the Court, the ninth day of February, A.D. 1841.
W. D. Rine Clerk

Pennsylvania Phila a City and County ss.
I, Joseph M. Moran Esq., one of the Associate Judges of the Court of General Sessions for the City and County of Philadelphia do certify, that the foregoing Certificate and attestation, made by William O. Kline, Esq. Clerk of our said Court of General Sessions, whose name is thereto annexed, and seal of Office affixed, are in due form and made by the proper officer.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, the ninth eighth day of February A. D. 1841
Joseph Moran

Susannah O'Neile of the City of Philadelphia aged ninety years, doth depose and say that she is personally acquainted with Janet Wilson and with her husband the late Robert M Wilson, which acquaintance has existed between sixty & seventy years. That on the British Army taking possession of the City of Philadelphia in 1777 she left in company with her husband, and resided for several years in the State of New Jersey.
That on her return soon after the close of the Revolutionary war, she understood that the said Robert & Janet had been married during her absence, since which time until the decease of the said Robert they have lived together as man and wife; she furthermore deposes that she has always understood that the said Robert, was a Boatswain in the Naval service of the Country until discharged sometime after the conclusion of the war of the Revolution. That the said Janet, is a woman of respectability and credit & that full reliance may be placed on her statements.
Witness present John W. Ryan
Susannah her O'Neile mark
Sworn and Subscribed before me this 3 rd day of February 1841
James Sanders ald n

Pennsylvania Philadelphia County } ss.
D. Samuel Hart Esq. Notary Public of the Court of Common Pleas of this County Do Certify that James Sanders Esq. before whom the within affidavit was made and whom his own proper hand - Writing that thereunto subscribed his name was at the time of so doing and now is an alderman in and for the City of Philadelphia and an Official Justice of the Peace duly commissioned and qualified to all whose acts in such full faith and credit are and ought to be given as well in Courts of Indi- cature as thereout
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court at Philadelphia this 3 rd February 1841.
D. Hart Notary

To James L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington City

Philadelphia 12 th July 1834
Sir,
You will please to consider me as relinquishing my pension under the act. of March 18 th 1818 for the purpose of obtaining the benefit of 7 th June 1832.
I entered on board the ship Gen t Washington as Boat-swing in the Spring, (but the year I have forgotten) The ship soon after sailed for Cape Francetown, joined the French 64 Gun Ship called Lavelle. Thence to Havanna took in money for the U.S. Sailed for, and arrived at Phila a . from Phila a we cruised off the coast until Jan y . When we sailed for Lorient Lorient with dispatches for Bvt d Franklin. From Lorient Lorient we ret d to Phila a . From thence we cruised off the coast until Peace was proclaimed. After peace we sailed for Haver as a Packet. Thence back to Phila a . From Phila a back to Haver. From Haver we sailed for Baltimore where the ship was sold and I was discharged. Having served to the best of my recollection near two years.
I herewith return my Pension certificate, granted me under the former act, and have to request that the amount which may be due under the act. of June 7 th 1832 be paid to my attorney Henry Hazel Esq r .
I have rec d my pension under the act of March 18 th 1818 up to the 3 rd day of April 1834 from the Bank of the U. States at Philadelphia.

and declare that my name appears on no other agency
I am very Respectfully
Witness Job H Bracy
Your most ob.
Robt. M his Wilson mark
To
James L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington City
_____

See letter to P. Agts L.A. Ray July 21 1834
See let 14 Jan'y 1840
Mr. Jan'y M. Wilson
See let 21 Jan'y 1841
do.
let to R. Renshaw 23 March 22 May - classis
Pennsylvania 20 Robert A. Wilson Div of Philad a Co. in the State of Pa. who was a Boatswain in the Ship command by Captain Paul Was of the Star command by in the during the line for Revolution
19 2/10 4 1/2 Boatswain ft Inscribed on the Roll of Penn a at the rate of 10 5 Dollars - Cents per annum to commence on the 14th day of March, 1834.
Certificate of Pension issued the 15 th day of Dec r 34 at Philad a and Philad a 34 at Philad a 34 at Philad a
Arrears to the 14th of Nov r 34 Semi-ann. allowance ending 14 Apr
Recorded by Book - Vol. 5

35.
Pennsylvania
Sarah Wilson, widow of Robert M. Wilson, who died on the 22 d of December 1840 of Philadelphia Co. in the State of Pennsylvania who was a Boatswain in the Genl. Washington commanded by Captain Barney of the Navy commanded by in the time for two Years.
Inscribed on the Roll of Philadelphia at the rate of 106 Dollars Cents per mence on the 1 st of March 1841

Robert M. Wilson?
3,677.
2nd Octo: 1818.
Con.
Mar 1819
[Handwritten flourish]

District Court of the United States in and for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania ss;
On the Twenty first day of July One Thousand eight hundred & Twenty personally appeared in the District Court of the U. States for the said District, the said Court being a Court of Record, having a Clerk, a Seal, and keeping a record of its proceedings; Robert M. Wilson, aged Seventy years, residing in Philadelphia, who being first duly sworn in Open Court, according to Law on his oath declared, that he served in the Revolutionary War as follows Vizt.
On board the U. States Ship General Washington under the Command of Commodore Joshua Barney, in the capacity of Boats- swain - Date of Original declaration 3 d April 1818 - Number of pen- sion certificate (3677). - and I the said Robert M. Wilson do further solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18 th day of March 1818; and that I have not since that time, by gift, Sale, or in any manner disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it, as to bring myself within the provisions of an Act of Congress, entitled "An Act of Congress to provide for certain persons engaged in the Land and Naval Service of the United States, in the Revolutionary War," passed the 18 th of March 1818; and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property or Securities, contracts or debts, due to me; nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed.
Sworn to and declared in Open Court on the twenty first day of July 1820.
Robert M. Wilson
D. Caldwell - Clk: Dist: Ct }
Schedule of the property of Robert M. Wilson
An Inventory of my whole property is hereto annexed - Am by Occupation a Mariner - but unable to pursue my profession

from bodily infirmity, have one daughter 19 years, one son 16. and one 15 years of age, one of them at a trade but not able to contribute in any way to my support, and I am in such indigent circumstances as to be unable to support myself without the assistance of my country -  Sworn to at Supra. } D. Caldwell clk: Dist: Ct. }
Robert M. Wilson
An inventory of goods & chattels of goods the property of Robert M. Wilson of the Township of Moyamensing and County of Philada, a pensioner of the United States viz!.
  4 old chairs $0.50   1 old chest 0.50   1 Old Pine Table 0.25   1 pair Shovel & Tongs 0.50   A Lot of crockery say a quantity of } old plates cups & saucers 1.50   A pair of Flat Irons 0.50   1 pair of Bellows 0.37 1/2   1 Tea Kettle (Iron) 0.50   1 Dutch Oven & Coffee Pot 1.00   1 Bake Iron & Grid Iron 0.37 1/2   1 Bucket & Tubs 0.50   1 Pot oven Sweeping Brush & Scrubbing Brush 0.50   $7.00 
Valued this 15th July 1820 by us.
Sal Stuart
James Gibson
I, D. Caldwell clerk of the District Court of the United States in and for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania do hereby certify that the foregoing list and the Schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the Records of the said Court: and I do further certify that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule is Seven Dollars.  JN -

In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and affixed the seal of the said Court, on this twenty second day of July, A. D. 1820 and in the Forty fifth year of the Independence of the said United States
Haldwell - Clerk. Dis. 165

This may certify that George Duffield D.D. was pastor of the Third Presbyterian Church in this city from 1780. to 1794 but he has left no record of marriages beyond the year 1785. All records of marriage in this church during that period are lost.
Attest Thomas Brainard Pastor of Asylum Church
Phila Feb 26. 1841.

On this twenty seventh day of February 1841 personally appeared before the subscriber one of the Aldermen of the County of Philadelphia Janet Wilson, who first being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath depose and say That she was married to Robert M Wilson late a pensioner of the United States, on the 6 th day of June 1783. by the Rev George Duffield D D and that all the persons who were present at the marriage are now deceased.
She furthermore on her oath doth depose and say, that she has no family record of the above, and that the marriage certificate was accidentally lost some years since whilst on a visit to the Western Country.
She furthermore on her oath doth depose and say that she has made diligent enquiry at the Third Presbyterian Church in order to procure a copy of the church record but no record of any marriages were to be found prior to the year 1785—
Janet Wilson mark
Sworn and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me
Witness present John W Ryan James Sanders James Sanders S ub S ub Ald n

Rev WIDOW, &c,
File No. 4533
Janet Wilson Wid,
Robert M. Wilson
Boatswain in the Navy
Act: July 4 th Bl. Sec. 3 d
Index:—Vol. M , Page 338
[Arrangement of 1870.]

3677.
Pennsylvania Roll
Robert M. Wilson 2.
Boatswain was Marine Ship Washington Barney In the navy of the United States during the Revolutionary War.
Inscribed on the Roll of Pennsylvania at the rate of Eight Dollars per month, to commence on the 3 rd of April 1818
Certificate of Pension issued the 15 th of October 1818 and Sent to D. Caldwell Esq r Chief Clerk Philadelphia
Arrears to 4th of September 1818 - 40:53: Semi-ann. all'ee ending March 4 th 1819 - 48: 5 Months 40: 2/30 $ 88:53
{ Revolutionary claim, } { Act 18th March, 1818. }
1 year War Continued
Southwark - Sam Southwark Pa
Application sent September 1818 to William Hughes, Philadelphia, Penna.

Off - not continental
See letters to Chas. Miller, Pensioner, & Pension Agent.
1 st Dec r 1821.
Restore Wilson's name.
J. L. E.
June 22. 1822.
10/20

Drop from roll under at 18 March 1818 as inscribed on roll under at 7 June 1832 as a Boatswain, M.S. Navy, from 1782, 1 yr. 2 mo. 4 days, $106 per annum
A. Ray Esq. Present.

Robert M. Wilson Pa. act 7 June 1832 to what time paid
$103-
Pen of pen
Feb 19. 1848
p. 4 Sep 1840
SH

DN
Geo Wm Crump Esq
Pension Department Office
Washington D.C.

Philadelphia May 15 - 1835
Sir
Early in last summer a man came to my house and called himself Henry Hazlett of Baltimore he told me Mr Crump and himself were old school mates and great friends and Mr Crump had told him that several of the Revolutionary Pensioners had not known this last act of Congress, and if he would hunt them out it might be of advantage to him as he had nothing to do. Hazlett told me if I would give up my old certificate which I was very unwilling to do - but having a recommendation from the Mayors of Baltimore and of Philadelphia and having asked the advice of Alderman Renshaw - and we gave up the old certificate and got a new one with the addition of Ten Dollars more per annum - he bought Alderman Renshaw to my house with a will & power and I consented to sign it and he said before Alderman Renshaw my wife my son and myself if he got the money he would bring it to the house & I might make him

such remuneration for his services as I thought proper, he came back next evening and told me he had been to the Bank of the United States and they said they had no order to pay but it ought to have been paid long ago - he had been at Girard Bank and the young man said he had no orders to pay. So I have seen no more of Mr. Hazellett from that day to this - and my daughter went to Girard Bank in September and drew eighty three dollars in cash in she went to draw the pension again and the young man wrote her a few lines and said that Mr. Hazellett had drawn it in July and he must deduct it from that date instead of receiving fifty three I therefore received $23 - Mr. Hazellett took my money and kept it, as bad as the Millers for he took the whole and went off - I hope you will see me righted - Barnes Com. Barnes old boatswain is both blind and lame and in want - I have enclosed the lines of the Clerk of the Bank - If you think proper to answer this please direct to No 56 Shippen Street.
Respectfully Yours
Wm Geo Wm Cummins Esq.
Robert Wilson

76 100 W 30 dollars was paid July 24. 1834 to Henry Hazel atty to Robt M. Wilson. & again paid on the 6th Feb 1834. Consequently is now deducted from the payment to 4 March 1835 - which makes 25 dollars instead of 53 dollars. —

april 19. 1874
James L. Edwards Esq Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

James L Edwards Esq. Sir
I transmit you two affidavits made in accordance with your instructions of the 9 th of April 1841. in order to obtain a pension under the act of 4 July 1836.
As the testimony is positive and conclusive as to my marriage, and the services of my late husband after the marriage. I trust that I shall be enabled to obtain the pension sought for.
Being old infirm and poor, I shall be much gratified to hear that my name has been placed on the pension list, of which you will please inform me at your earliest convenience.
I am very respectfully Your Ob t Serv t
Philad a April 16. 1841
Anet her Wilson Mark 52 Spruce Street Philad a

Janet Wilson of Robert M. Pennsylvania
Suspended
See letter 19 th Feb. 1841 to claimant. let: to claimant 19 th March 1841 let: 9 April 40 to do.
Act 4 July 1836

James Irwin of the County of Philadelphia being first duly sworn according to Law, doth depose and say that he is acquainted with Janet Wilson her husband the late Robert M. Wilson which acquaintance commenced during the Revolutionary War. that he well recollects the marriage to have taken place in June 1783. that his reasons for so recollecting the marriage are that his sister acted as bridesmaid on that occasion, and that afterwards Mr Wilson left Philadelphia, and went to Europe in the ship Genl Washington Captn Joshua Barney (formerly the British ship Genl Monk, captured by the the Flyer etc) in the summer of 1783, and that Mr Wilson returned to the United States in the said ship in the spring of 1784. his reason for being so distinct in his recollection of the marriage, is that peace was made some time afterwards, when Mr Wilson had left Philadelphia, he also recollects the circumstance distinctly from having been acquainted with Mr Kennedy who was Gunner in the same ship Genl Washington, and who left at the same time with Mr Wilson, Mr Kennedy acted as groomsman at the wedding.

I know the Genl. Washington to have been a United States ship, having been on board of her, and I also know that Mr Wilson was Boatswain of said ship and Mr Kennedy Gunner. I am now 72 years of age consequently I was fourteen years of age at the time the events took place to which I have now qualified.
Sworn and subscribed to this 16 th day of April 1841 before the subscriber one of the Justices of the Peace Philadelphia
James Sanders J.P.
Witness Present Matthew Miller

Janet Wilson being first duly sworn according to law doth depose and say. that she was married to Robert M c Wilson a Boatswain in the Navy of the United States, on the 6 th day of June 1783. and that the said Robert was afterwards at that time in the service, being Boatswain of the United States Ship Genl Washington and continued in the said service until discharged at Baltimore in April 1784. After her marriage to M c Wilson the ship of which he was Boatswain twice sailed to Europe with dispatches, she was commanded by Capt n Joshua Barney.
Sworn and subscribed to this 16 th day of April 1841 before the subscriber one of the Aldermen of the County of Philadelphia
James Sanders ald n
Janet her  X Wilson mark
witnss Present Matthew Miller

Jan 1-18741.
Raydale
Robt. M. Wilson pa. act 33
J. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

James S. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions
Sir
Robert M Wilson late Boatswain in the Naval Service of the United States, during the Revolutionary war died on the 22 nd of this month aged 84 years.
Not being aware of the necessary steps to be taken to have his pension continued to myself I make this application to you as I understand I am fully entitled to a continuance of the same.
I was married to Mr Wilson on the sixth day of June 1784, and continued to live with him until his death.
An answer to this letter is respectfully solicited, and will confer an obligation on
Yours, &c
With sentiments of esteem
her Jane M Wilson mark
No 52 Shippen Street, Philadelphia
Philadelphia December 30 th 1840
Please

Jan 14. 1841
R. H. Wilson Esq. Incl
[Handwritten monogram]
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C.

Philadelphia 12 th Jan y 1841
J. J. Edwards Esq. Commissr. of Pensions Washington D.C.
Sir
The Undersigned widow of the late Robert M. Wilson begs to apprise you of his decease which occurred on 22 nd December 1840. who during his lifetime drew a pension for services during the Revolutionary War on board the United States Ship General Washington as Boatswain under the command of Captain Joshua Barry.
The Subscriber respectfully begs to state that she was married to the said Robert M. Wilson in the month of June 1783. by Dr. Duffield Pastor of the Third Presbyterian Church. She is now in her Seventy Sixth Year and her late Husband at the time of his decease was in his Eighty fourth Year.
She also wishes you to inform her what steps she should pursue to obtain a continuance of the Pension granted to Her late Husband and by so doing You will oblige Your. Humble Servant Jane M. Wilson Residence.
N o 52 Shipwreck St. Phila.

5286 Janet Wilson of Robert M. Pennsylvania
admitted
Boatswain. - $106. Cap. Barnes. Ship Genl Washington.
died 22 Dec: 1840
Act 4 July 1836
Mr. Janet Wilson N o 52 Shippen St. Phil a

James L Edwards Esq.
Sir
I herewith transmit the declaration together with accompanying affidavits, in order to obtain the benefit of the third section of the act of Congress of the 1 st of July 1836. The marriage certificate was lost many years since in a removal made to the Western Country.
Should traditional evidence be deemed necessary. I can at any time forward an abundance of it. but as I know of none stronger than that which at present I transmit, I am in hopes it will prove fully sufficient.
Being much in want at the present time I would be under an obligation, to you, for a speedy reply to my application, and can assure you, it will be held in grateful remembrance.
Very Truly
Yours &c
her
Jane Wilson mark
Philadelphia Feb 9 th 1841.

R. M. Wilson Payable on the 4 th March and 4 th September of each Year at The Bank of the United States Philadelphia -
Recorded

WAR DEPARTMENT.
Revolutionary Claims
I CERTIFY, That in conformity with the Law of the UNITED STATES,
Of the the Eighteen th day of March 1818 —
Robert M. Wilson late a Boatswain — in the Marine of the United States during the Revolutionary War
is inscribed on the Pension List, Roll of the Pennsylvania Agency, at the rate of Eight dollars cents per month, to commence on the 3 rd day of April — one thousand eight hundred and Eighteen —
GIVEN at the WAR OFFICE of the UNITED STATES, this 15 th day of October — one thousand eight hundred and Eighteen —
J. C. Calhoun Secretary of War

Philadelphia County ss
Robert M Wilson personally appeared and was duly sworn upon the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God. The said Robert M Wilson, and who doth depose and say, that he the within named at the War Office is the same one who has now made oath and been sworn further saith not
Sworn and subscribed before me October the 23. 1878 Robert M Wilson
Michael Freytag
Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Philadelphia Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

To the Honble
W. Calhoun
Sing at War- City of Washington
Free Admitted

Phila a - 12th Dec 1816.
Sir -
I am directed by the Judge of the United States for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania to transmit the inclosed to you.
I am, with great Confidenc e
Yr. mor. ob. Serv t
D. Blackwell - Clerk.
Gentle
Mr. Colburn

Wm Crump. Esq 2 Chief Clerk of the Commissioners of Pensions.
Washington
DW
mail 3

George W m Crump, Esq r Sir
I am solicited by Captain Robert M c Wilson, living in my neighbourhood, to apply to you for information on the subject of this Letter. He states, that Mr Henry Hazel obtained for him an increase of his Pension, under an act of Congress, and that he gave Mr Hazel a Letter of Attorney to receive the arrears of the Pension and that, on this account, thirty Dollars were paid to Mr Hazel at the Girard Bank here, on the 24 th July 1834. Captain Wilson on the 8 th Sep r 1834 received at the Bank 53 Dollars, his semiannual Payment, but on the 4 th March instant he was paid only 23 Dollars, the above 30 Dollars being deducted. Captain Wilson did not know, until he made his last application for payment, that any money had been received on his account by Mr Hazel. He has requested me to write to you, as a Gentleman who could give him some satisfaction about this business. Any information you can furnish in relation to it shall be communicated to him and will, no doubt, be satisfactory.
Very Respectfully Your Richd. Renshaw
Philadelphia. March 17. 1835.
26,472

Please to state the periods & amount of the several payments to Robert M. Wilson 2 nd a pensioner under the act of 7 June '32 at the Philad a agency. Also the name of the att o to whom payment was made last July. G. W. B. W. Randall
The only payment to Robert M. Wilson under the act of 7 June 32, was received by Rev. Hazle as his Attorney in fact last. amounting to $83. being the balance due from 4 th Mar 1821. to 4 th Sep r 1824. $288. retained as having been received under the act of 1818.

See letter to R. M. Wilson 2 o July 18 th 1829.
at Washington city
Secretary of War
J. G. Calhoun Esq. of
Recd. 10 June 1822

Recd. 10 June 1822
John G. Calhoun Esq. Secretary of War at Washington city
See letter to R. M. Wilson 2 d July 18 th 1829.

Phila. June 8 th 1892
Sir, I received your Letter of the 8 th of April (returning to me the Certificates I sent you) in which you stated that it was required that those Gentlemen should make affidavits that during the time Wilson served on the boards of the Washington, she was on the Continental establishment, which I have had complied with in the strictest sense, and now enclose you the affidavits of Messrs Daniel Smith, Armitage Miencken and Mr. Grinnel, which came directly to the point which you wished, you will please if they are satisfactory write me and inform as to their efficacy in restoring Wilson's name to the pension roll.
Yrs Respectfully
J. L. Edwards Esq.
P.S. I received the Land Warrants in the case of Patterson direct to me as before C. M. F. 50 South 6 th

Jan 21. 1841
Genl. J. C.
Edwardes Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C.

Philadelphia 18 th Jan y 1821
J L Edwards Esqr. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C. Sir-
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Your letter dated 14 Jan y . and beg to inform you that my late Husband Robert M. Wilson has been ten months in the United States Service after our marriage, which took place in June 1783. he did not leave the Ship Washington until the Spring of 1784. when she returned to Baltimore after leaving President John Adams at Pool in England when she was sold. If there is any proof wanting to the above statement I can furnish it at any time that it may be required. I am most respectfully Your Ob t Servant Jane M. Wilson
52 Shippen St

Philadelphia County S.S.
Personally appeared before me the Subscriber Shubert Armitage who being duly sworn according to Law doth depose and say that he knew Robert M c Wilson now Present during the time he served on board the ship General Washington (formerly the Monk) in the capacity of Boatswain in the revolutionary war which ship was commanded by Captain Joshua Ganey and was on the Continental establishment at that time (meaning the time that Wilson served on board) Shewbart Armitage
Sworn and subscribed before me the twenty second of May 1822
Peter M c Kean Justice of the Peace

Philadelphia County SS
Personally appeared before me the subscribers Neal M c Ginnis and David Miercken, both of whom being duly sworn, doth depose and say, that they knew Robert W m Wilson (now present) during the time he served on board the ship General Washington formerly the Monk (in the capacity of Boatswain) in the revolutionary war, which ship was commanded by Captain Joshua Barney and was an the Continental establishment at that time meaning the time that Wilson served on board
Sworn and subscribed before me the twenty second of May 1822 Peter Miercken Justice of the Peace
his Neal M c Ginnis mark David Miercken

Philadelphia County ss.
I, Matthew Randall, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas for the city and county of Philadelphia do certify that Peter Munchen Esquire before whom the within affidavits were made and who has thereto subscribed his name was at the time of so doing and still is an Alderman Justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid duly commissioned & qualified to all whose acts as such full faith & credit is & ought to be given as well in courts of justice and elsewhere by testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of the said Court at Philadelphia the 23 rd day of May A.D. 1892.
Matthew Randall
Pro.

Feb 19. 1871.
Inst.
James L. Edwards
Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

James L Edwards Esq Sir
I transmitted my application together with such proofs as I thought necessary to substantiate my claim for a pension, on the 9 th inst, as I have received no reply, I am fearful they have miscarried.
By answering this not you will confer an obligation on
Yours Respectfully
Janet Wilson No 52 Shipyard Street Philadelphia.
Please inform me if any other testimony is necessary
Phila a Feb y 17 th 1841
J. W.

James L Edwards Esq.
Washington D.C.
Additional Papers in furtherance of the claim of Janet Wilson for a Pension

Sir
I herewith transmit an affidavit which I have made according to your instructions before an Alderman together with the certificate of the Rev Thomas Brainard Pastor of the Third Presbyterian Church certifying that there is no copy of the church record in existence prior to the year 1785.
As I know of no other testimony which would have a stronger bearing on my case, and as I am old, infeebled with disease and lameness. I trust that this will prove sufficient to satisfy you of the justice of my claim, and smooth the passage of life for the few days which in the course of nature remain to me
An early decision of my case is respectfully requested, and answer on such decision
I am very respectfully Your Obedient Servant
Anne Wilson mar
Philad Feb 27. 1841
J. L. Edwards Esq Commissioner of Pensions

Mar 19. 41
Inch Pa.
JM
J. V. Hume Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

Philadelphia 17 th March 1821
J. G. Edwards Esqr. Sir-
I am from necessity, again compelled to trouble you, to know if there is anything more necessary to be done with regard to my application for a pension, as the widow of Rob t M c Wilson, a revolutionary pensioner. I have forwarded a certificate from Rev d J. Braynard with my own qualification and if there is anything more necessary you will be pleased to let me know. Likewise to inform me me if my application will be entertained.
Very Respectfully Your ob t Serv t Jane M c Wilson
No 52 Shippen St.

Mar 29. 1841
pa
Arch. H. H. H.
7 Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

Philadelphia March 26. 1841
Sir
I herewith transmit the affidavit of Mr James Irvin in relation to my marriage, which appears to me to be as strong testimony as could be possibly procured in any case under the same circumstances.
In relation to the letters which have been addressed to you signed with the names of "Jane M Wilson" & "Jane Wilson" the mistake arose from different persons writing the letters.
Being unable to write myself I was compelled to rely on the kindness of my neighbours to perform the task for me, and in doing so, it appears the mistake occurred; the real and proper name should have been Janet Wilson.
I was not aware that such mistake had been made until I received your letter of the 19 th inst.
Apologizing for the trouble I have given
I remain very Respectfully
Yours &c
her
James L Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions.
Janet X Wilson
mark
52 Shippen Street Philada
Please write an answer to this as soon as convenient

Grant M c Alister (1841) New York
[Signature]
L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

L. L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions &c.
Sir
I transmitted on the 26 March last the affidavit of James Irvin relative to my marriage with the late Robert M. Wilson, it being in accordance with instructions received from yourself.
Not having received an answer I am fearful it might have miscarried.
Will you be kind enough to answer this communication as I am very anxious to know your decision in the matter, as I am old & poor by so doing you will confer a favour on
Yours
Very Respectfully
Phila. April 5. 1861
Janet for Wilson mark.

Additional Testimony in the case of Janet Wilson an Applicant for a pension.

James Irwin of the County of Philadelphia now aged 72 years, of his own personal knowledge doth depose and say, that he knows of the marriage of Robert M & Janet Wilson, that the said Janet Wilson was married to Robert M Wilson deceased by the Rev George Duffield on or about the 6 th of June 1783 - in George Street District of Southwark County of Philadelphia.
The said James Irwin on oath doth depose and say that his sister Ruth Irwin now deceased was bridesmaid at the marriage aforesaid, from whom as well as from his own personal knowledge he is enabled to arrive at the date of the said marriage, he is also enabled to arrive at such conclusion from the circumstance of knowing that said marriage took place some months previous to the conclusion of the Revolutionary War.
James Irwin Sworn and Subscribed before me this 26 th day of March 1861.
Witness present James Sanders alderman of the County of Philadelphia
James Mayhew

Philadelphia County P.S.
Personally appeared before me the subscriber Daniel Smith who being duly sworn according to Law doth depose and say that he perfectly recollects that Captain Joshua Turner commanded a vessel called the Hyder Ally which belonged to the State of Penn- sylvania which took a British Prize called the General Manks which was brought into the Port of Philadelphia, and which said Prize was immediately purchased by the United States, and called the General Wash- ington, and always belonged to the United States as far as his recollection serves him
sworn & subscribed May 28. 1822
Before me G. Baughman Notary
Daniel Smith

Philadelphia County ss I, Matthew Randall, Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas for the city and county of Philadelphia do certify that George Partrick Esquire before whom the within affidavit is made & who has thereto subscribed his name was at the time of so doing and still is an Alderman of the said city duly commissioned & qualified to all whose acts as such full faith and credit is & ought to be given as well in Courts of Justice as elsewhere.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of the said Court at Philadelphia the 28 th day of May A.D. 1822.
Matthew Randall

I Richard Peters Judge of the District Court of the United States in and for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, do Certify That it appears to my Satisfaction that Robert Mc Wilson, Boatman whose Deposition and Declaration with the Documents accompanying the same, are hereto annexed, did serve in the Revolutionary War as stated in his said Declaration, against the common Enemy, for the term of Nine Months upon the Continental Establishment; and I now transmit the Proceedings and Testimony taken and had before me, to the Secretary for the Department of War pursuant to the direction of the late Act of Congress entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the Land and Naval Service of the United States in the Revolutionary War."
Philadelphia } 12 th October 1818 }
Richard Peters
United States } Eastern District of Pennsylvania }
I Certify That the honorable Richard Peters, who has subscribed the foregoing Attestation is the Judge of the District Court of the United States in and for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, duly commissioned and qualified.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my Name and affixed the Seal of the said Court, at Philadelphia, this twelfth Day of October A. D. 1818, and in the forty third Year of the Independence of the said United States. W. Gadsby Clerk.

I Certify that I have known Robert M. Wilson of the Township of Moyamensing for twenty years - and that he stands 3 in need of the assistance of his country for support. Phil a Octr. 5. 1818.
J. M c Gibbons
I believe the fact above stated.
Richard Peters.

Robert H. Wilson
3. April 1868.
Port Town
Mr. Robert M. Wilson care of Mr. James Gibson Distiller Shipping Street Philadelphia
Admitted
Admitted into Exh. 3. 1878.

Robert M. Wilson
3 April 1865
Dear Sir
Mr. Robert M. Wilson care of Mr. James Gibson Distiller Shipping Street Philadelphia
Admitted
Admitted into Apr 3. 1865.

Philadelphia 26 March 1818
These are to certify that the bearer hereof Robert M. Wilson served on board the ship General Washington under Captain Joshua Barney, in the Revolution War, and since as Mason and Warrant Officer - Witness Capt John Wiley

Certificate of
Robt. M. Wilson
1818
Palmar 106 Street

DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA, ss.
On this Third day of April A. D. 1818, before me, Richard Peters, Judge of the District Court of the United States, in and for the Pennsylvania District, personally appeared Robert M Wilson of the Dist of Southwark who being duly Sworn deposes and declares, that during the War of the Revolution he served against the common enemy as a Boatswain in the army navy on the Continental Establishment— that on the day of A. D. at Philadelphia in the state of Pennsylvania he in May or June one thousand Eight hundred and eighty two he entered on board the United States Ship General Washington then commanded by Joshua Barney Esquire as a Boatswain and received a warrant as such and continued in the service of the United States on board of the same Ship until discharged when peace took place
That previous to this he was employed in the Merchant Service in different letters of marque
That by reason of his reduced circumstances in life, he is in need of assistance from his country for support, that he never has received, or been allowed any Pension by the laws of the United States—that he is a resident citizen of the United States, and that his present residence is in the Dist of Southwark Phil a County Pennsylvania
Robert M Wilson
Sworn and Subscribed this 3 day of April A. D. 1818, before me
Richard Peters

I hereby do certify that Robert M. Wilson . Served under my command onboard the U S ship General Washington, as Boatswain & warrant officer, from May or June 1782 untill the end of the war,
Given under my hand at Baltimore This 25 th day of March 1818
Joshua Barney

I send you the forgoing certificate and hope it may be of service to you, I should have answered your letter sooner, but have been confined for four weeks, occasioned by my wound, rec d . at Bladensburg.
Yours John A. Bane
I expect to be in Phil a sometime next week & shall be at the Mansion house.
25 th March