Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 10646, John Totman, Mass.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass.
Totman, John Ruth
R.10646
CONTENTS

New York March 11
Paid 6
Secretary of State Boston Massachusetts
4818

Huron Wayne 6 th Mo March 11-52
Dr Sir
When the inclosed Statement was made By Widow Johnson her mind and memory was so much impaired by age. That but little reliance could be placed on it. The Widows acquaintance having commenced after the War
The only facts I could establish beyond a doubt were these. That her husband John Johnson Resided During the War of the Revolution in the State of Massachusetts. and that he actually served in said War two or three years. It appears from S th Dalfrey's Report, (enclosed), that the Records in Genl office affords proof of the service of a John Johnson but it was not identified by the statement made by the Widow. (enclosed) It may be considered highly probable that the services alluded to in the inclosed Report, is that of the Husband of the inclosed applicant. from the fact that the name is uncommon and probably no other son of that name served in Massachusetts
May I ask you to furnish a statement of that service. showing date. names of officers. and lengths of service. This may enable the Widow to identify her husband with the service. if not the proof will not be called for on the statement asked for improperly used
Very Respectfully &c
John G Curtis

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston; October 14. 1845.
I hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents, relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that the name of John Potman is borne upon many of them, but upon none whose services can be identified, as those of the individual named in the annexed application.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
John G. Parsons, Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Application for Certificate of Revolutionary Service By the Widow State of Pennsylvania County of Bradford
The Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is hereby Requested to furnish Evidence from the Rolls in his office of the Service of My late husband, John Potman during the war of the Revolution - He Enlisted probably in the Year 1779 or 1780 and served to the close of the war - have always understood him that he served three years - I have the impression that he Enlisted for during the war, and drew land He Resided during the war of the Revolution at Boston Massachusetts - My Memory does not allow me to state the names of his officers or the particular date of his Enlistment
I am now Seventy Nine Years old - I Reside in the town of Peterborough and state aforesaid
and I do hereby constitute and appoint John D. Gants of Huron Wayne County NY My true and lawful attorney to act in the Premises
Witness My hand this 7 th day of July 1845 -
Signed in My presence by the said Ruth Potman
Jesse E. Bullock Notary of the Peace
Ruth her mark Potman

Certificate of Comptroller of Naals.
Answered. H. Burts Huron May 6 th 1871.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston :
March 18. 1852.
I hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that there appears to have been two soldiers of the name of John Potman, whose services, arranged as well as I am able to distinguish them, are given below. — 1 st The name John Potman is borne, on roll of Capt. Eddy's Co., Col. Bradford's Regt. "White Plains, Aug. 3. 1778." "enlisted Decr. 25. 1776, sick at Yellow Springs." — On Army books, Col. Bradford's Regt. from Jan'y 1. 1777 to Decr. 31. 1779 — 36 mos. enlisted for "3 yrs." — On Pay roll of 6 mos. men, of Abington, 1780. fr. July 10. to Decr. 5. 5 mos. 1 d. includg. travel. — On descriptive list of 6 mos. men of 16 th division, Capt. J. Cooper. July 15. 1780 — fr. Abington — "19 yrs. 5 ft. 5 in. ruddy." — On roll of Capt. Cobb's Co., Col. Gary's Regt. on Fiverton service, July 20. 1780. as Corp. 11 days, from Abington.
On "Account of Public securities due to soldiers of late new Second Class Regt. for 1783, delivered the Secretary of the Commonwealth by Nathan Forth Paymaster & agent of said regt." John Potman — No's. 26. 575; + 26630. — See printed register also for above numbers.
2 d On list of Middlesex Co. men, "for 3 years & during war" 1781. of Billerica May 3. — enlisted for 3 yrs. "16 yrs. 5 ft. 2 in. light" — On Mosmer's book, the

same description — On return of Selectmen of Billerica of bounty receipts for 3 years Enlistments — 1781 — paid John Totman Esq —
On order to Paymaster of 6th Regt. for his wages for 1781 — 1782 to be paid to bearer Phineas Osgood, Dated Billerica Apr. 1, 1784. Signed. — On register of final settlement of 6th Regt. Benjamin Haywood Cpt. Nos 12 1141 — 12 661 — 13157 — due John Totman are receipted for by Phineas Osgood, April 5. 1784.
See register of Certificates issued by Pay master Genl. for above numbers.
And I further Certify, That, before search made for evidence of said facts, the application hereto annexed was filed in this Office, in the form in which the same now appears; that the search was made by myself and my clerks alone; and that said application, and the certificate above set forth, contain all the facts and circumstances within my knowledge, pertaining to the case.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
Francis Walker Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefits of the act of Congress of the 7th July 1838, entitled an act granting half pay and pensions to certain Widows
State of New York County of Bronx ss On this 23 d day of July — 1952 in open Court held in and for said County at Bronx in said County personally appeared before the Court Julia of Bronx in said County aged forty nine Years who being first 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 7 th 1838, entitled an act Granting half pay and pensions to certain Widows. That this deponent is a daughter of the late Widow of John Patman or Ruth Patman late of Bradford County in the State of Pennsylvania, whose husband the said John Patman Resided in the State of Massachusetts during the Revolutionary War. That she always under- -stood and believed that her said father Enlisted as a Soldier in the War of the Revolution for three Years or during the War and that he served to the close of the War cannot state the officers names under whom he served nor the exact date of his enlistment but have heard it talked in the family that it was in 1780 or 1781. This deponent cannot state definitely when her said father Resided at the time he enlisted but is sure that at some early day he Resided in Middlesex County, and has heard the Town of Billerica mentioned in connection with his early history. That it was supposed by this depon- -ent's said Mother that her said Father must have Resided in Boston at some period during the War

But this deponent sincerely believes her said Mother received the impression from the fact of her said father being stationed at Boston so much of the time while in the service of the United States. That her said mother was married to her said father John Potman in the month of November 1791 in the town of New Fairfield since divided into two towns viz Sherman & New Fairfield Litchfield County Connecticut by Congress - Rather that her said mother's maiden name was Bolister. That her said father John Potman died in the year 1805 aged forty years leaving her said mother Ruth Potman his widow. That she remained his widow until her death which took place April 19 th 1850. That she left the following named children her surviving viz Sarah Ann Warner and this deponent. That this deponent in behalf of all the surviving children of the aforesaid late widow Ruth Potman late of Pennsylvania who was the widow of the aforesaid John Potman who was a soldier of the United States makes the above declaration for the purpose of obtaining the amount due their said mother at her death
Julia Root
State of New York County of Brown
Taken, and subscribed and sworn to by the said Julia Root before the County Court of said County of Brown, at the day and year first in the above declaration written in open court. A. D. Dickinson County Judge Brown Co.

The Court certify that the above named Julia Rude ~ is a Respectable person John Potman who claims to have been a soldier in the War of the Revolution Died in 1805. aged forty years. Leaving his Widow Ruth Potman, who deed his Widow on the 19 th of April 1830 leaving the following named children being the only surviving children, namely Julia Rude of the State of New York and Syria Ann Warner of Pennsylvania. That the aforesaid named children are the only surviving children of the aforesaid Ruth Potman the late Widow of John Potman Who claims to have been a soldier in the War of the Revolution. That each of them are of the age of twenty one years and upwards. Thus it appears to the satis- -faction of the Court from the annexed testimony.
July 25 th 1852
A. R. D. Minn Clerk of Judge Brown - Co

STATE OF NEW YORK, BROOME COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE,
} s. s.
I, E. H. Palmer Clerk of the County of Broome, Do HEREBY CERTIFY, That John V. Schuyler Esq. whose name is subscribed to the Certificate of the proof or acknowledg- ment of the annexed Instrument, and thereon written, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, the County Judge in and for said County of Broome, duly elected and sworn, and authorized to take the same. And further, that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of such John V. Schuyler , and verily believe that his signature to the said Certificate of proof or acknowledgment, is genuine. And that said instrument is executed and acknowledged in conformity with the laws of this State.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said County, the 23 d , day of
July — A. D. 1852.
E. H. Palmer CLERK.
Answer to John H. Covert, Baron. Wayne Co N.Y.

Burrows May 27 - 1952
Mrs. Warner
Will you answer the following questions as nearly correct as possible, by writing the answers opposite each question and Return this letter by mail
1 st In What Year did Your father John Potman die Answer
2 nd How old was he at the time of his death Answer
3 rd Was he a small or large man Answer
4 th Was he light or dark complexion Answer
5 th Did You ever hear Your parents tell of living in Billerica Middlesex Co. Massachusetts Answer
6 th When was Your Parents Married Answer
7 th When did Your mother Ruth Potman die Answer
Respectfully &c John H. Cloutier

Orwell June 24 th 1852 Mr Curtis
Yours of May 27 th is recieved and the questions answered according to the best of my knowledge and belief and I think are correct
1 st He died in eighteen hundred and five 2 d He was forty years old when he died 3 d He was a smallish sized man 4 th He was light complexion 5 th I think my Father did live in Middlesex Co and have heard the town of Billerick mentioned 6 th they was maried in Sherman Mansfield Co Conn Nov 16 th 1791 7 th She Died in Orwell Bradford Co Pa April 19 th 1850
Yours with Respect
Lyra A Warner

State of Pennsylvania County of Bradford ss. Personally appeared before the Subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for said County Ezra Ann Warren of Orwell in said County aged forty Six Years in June last after being duly sworn according to law deposes and saith that John Potman who was a Soldier in the war of the Revolution was this deponents father and that Ruth Potman was her mother. That the said John Potman had the Reputation of being a Soldier in the War of the Revolution. That she always understood her said father enlisted in the State of Massachusetts for three Years or for during the War and served to its close. That she always understood her said parents were married in the town of New Fairfield now known as Goshenfield County Connecticut in the fall of 1791 - That her said Father Died in the Year 1825 and was then forty Years old. That he left the said Ruth Potman this deponents Mother, his widow. That she remain- -ed his Widow untill her death which took place on the 19th day of April 1850. Eighteen hundred and fifty That she left two Children whose names are Julia Reeder of Brown County New York and this deponent They being the only surviving Heirs of the said Ruth Potman. That this deponent Received the attached letter from John H. Curtis by Mail. That she wrote the answers to the questions on the back of the letter as they now appear from knowledge derived from her mother and from her own observation. That she did not know at that time that any search had been made for the Records of her fathers Service and if made did not know the Result. That she inclosed the said letter of questions and mailed the letter to the said John H. Curtis and at that time she had never seen (over)

The said burtis - and the questions as they now appear on the same as when this deponent first received them, and the answers as they now appear on the back of the letter on the same as this deponent wrote them before she made them to the said burtis
Subscribed and sworn before me This 19 day of July 1852 J Allen Jus Peace
Lyra Ann Warner
I certify that the above deponent is a Respectable person and worthy of credit J Allen J.P.
Answer to John H. Curtis Huron, Wayne Co. M.I.

State of Pennsylvania } County of Bradford } ss. Personally appeared before me the Subscriber a sister of the Deponent in and for said County Anity Boonworth of the Township of Pike in said County who after being duly sworn according to law, deposes and saith That she is seventy one years of age. That at the time of her earliest Recollection she lived in the town of Newfair- -field Litchfield County Connecticut. That she then knew John Potman and Ruth Holister who was married in said town of Newfairfield Connecticut in the Year 1791. Seventeen hundred and ninety one by James Patten Esq. That this deponent establishes her age by an old Record which is now lost. That she thinks she cannot be mistaken about the time the said John Potman and Ruth Holister was married from the fact that her Mother was married to her second husband when this deponent was twelve years old which was in 1793 and that she is sure the said Potman was married two years previous to that event. This deponent was not at the wedding of the said Potman & Ruth Holister but will recollect the time as there was a great festival on the occasion. This deponent continued to be acquaint- -ed with the said Potman and wife until their deaths also with their children. That the said John Potman died forty six or seven years since. Thinks it was one or two years before the Great Eclipse. That the said Ruth Potman continued the widow of the said John Potman until her death which took place in April 1850. That she left two children her surviving namely Julia Reed of Broome County State of New York and Lydia Ann Warner of Bradford County in the State of Pennsylvania. They being her only surviving Heirs. That John Potman was a small five-eight complexion man. This deponent has frequently heard the said John Potman tell of being in the War of the Revolution. This Deponent knew Timothy Barrum and

Joseph Gouge who claimed to have been in the rear of the Revolution and have heard them tell of King John Paterson in the Service Sworn and subscribed before me Arinity Bosworth This 19 th day of July - 1852
James Hodge Justice of the Peace
Bradford County S.S.
32 I certify that I am well acquainted with the above named Arinity Bosworth, that I consider her of the age represented by her, and that she is a highly Respecable person - that her mind and memory appears to be good, and that any statement made by her is entitled to credit.
Witness my hand and Seal, Pike July 19 th 1852
James Hodge Justice of Peace
Declaration page 1
State of Pennsylvania Bradford County
I Allen McKean Notary Public of the Court of Common Pleas in & for said County do hereby certify that J Allen & James Hodge before whom the within proceedings were had, were at the time of making such certificates, both acting justices of the Peace Residing & being in the County aforesaid & that the signatures purporting to be theirs are Genuine In testimony Whereof I have hereunto set my hand & official seal at Towanda this 20 July A.D. 1852
Allen McKean Notary P. H. Sathrop Deputy

Certificate of Marriage
Answer To John H. Clark Huron Wayne Co N.Y.

State of Connecticut } County of Fairfield } ss.
Personally appeared before the Subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for said County Dan Ball of New Fairfield Township in said County who after being duly sworn according to law deposeth and saith that he is clerk of the Town of New Fairfield in said County — That on examination of an old ancient Book of the Records of Marriages kept in said town He finds the following Record viz "John Potman and Ruth Hollester were joined in Marriage November 16 th A.D. 1791.
That the above is a true copy of said Record as it appears in fair legible letters and figures That the towns of Sherman and New Fairfield were once one town and was in Fairfield  Schfield County
Subscribed and sworn before me } This 16 th day of September 1852 } David B. Root } Notary Public
Dan Ball
I certify that I am well acquainted with the above named Dan Ball that he is Town Clerk as stated by him. That he is a Respectable man and worthy of credit.
David B. Root } Notary Public

10646
P. O. Ruth Sotman
Service: _____
REJECTED
Enlisted: _____, 18 .
Discharged: _____, 18 .
Application filed: _____, 18 .
Alleges: _____
Re-enlisted: _____
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18 .

Huron Jan'y 1 - 1855
Hon. S. P. Halse - Com. of Pensions
May I ask You to allow Mr Arad Joy - to examine the papers on file in Your office in the case of Ruth Votman Widow of John Votman of New York
Respectfully &c
John G. Burts

No 14.757 Ruth Totman dec widow of John NY
J. F. Curtis Octo 23 1852
Same May 6. 1853
Same March 21/54
The above letter is dated 13 th & is the first letter bound under date of the 16 th month
106 H 6
106 H 6
Ad July 7 1838
To J. for paid

Huron Wayne Co My Nov. 18 th 52
Mr Gove
Br Sir
You will Recollect that at Geneva in June last, I requested You to Examine a claim of Mine on file in the Pension Office. I think I gave You the Case as that of John Potman of My. If so You would not be able to find such a claim - and supposing that to be the Reason of My not hearing from You - I write to say the Case alluded to is that of Ruth Potman, Widow of John Potman of My. I hope You will do me the favor to examine this Case Carefully, I think the person who made the Report to the 15 th of March last, did not get a Right view of the testimony. He thinks there is an attempt made to mislead as to the Identity of the Soldier. He says, "why this round about way of proving he Resided in Bellerica. Why not go direct to that town to get the proof - I would ask - does not the Certificate of the Service from Boston prove that the John Potman whose Service we claim enlisted from Bellerica, we have not attempted to add proof of that fact. but Suppose the Roundabout proof alluded to is that obtained in Connecticut for the purpose of Identifying

John Potman who was married in that place to the applicant with the John Potman which the Secretary's Certificate proves enlisted from Billerica Middlesex Co. M. V. and performed the Service I ask you Carefully to examine this proof from G.V. in connection with the statement made by the widow during her lifetime of the age of her husband when he died. and next the description of John Potman as proven by persons well acquainted with him during his life time - and next compare this proof with the age & the complexion of the John Potman who enlisted from Billerica Middlesex Co. as Certified to by the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts - It is true the Widow stated her husband Resided in Boston. This is evidently a mistake. The Widow Resided in Ditchfield Co. G.V. and did not know John Potman until after the War and it is not unfair to suppose she got that impression from hearing him relate so many circumstances that occurred in Boston, he being stationed there most of the time of his Service I know the proof is somewhat complicated and somewhat circumstantial, but when rightly connected with liberal construction, (if I may be allowed to judge) it makes a strong case
Very Respectfully Yours
John F. Curtis

Hudson Wayne Co. N.Y. March 13. 1859 Hon S.P. Waldo,
Enclosed you will please find additional proof in the case of Ruth Sotman - (Widow of John Sotman) whose Declaration was made in this State in 1852 - Act of July 7 th 1838.
In your Report of May 6 th 1853 it was thought that the proof then on file did not sufficiently identify the husband of Ruth Sotman to be either of the persons of that name, whose services are certified by the Secretary of Massachusetts.
The enclosed proof is all that can now be found, and it is thought, that when taken in connection with the proof now on file, will establish the identity beyond a doubt.
Permit me to request a careful examination, and comparison of all the proof.
I would first call your attention to the statement made by the Widow Sotman to Mr. Lous. Compare the age of her husband as stated by her, with the age of the John Sotman who enlisted from Middlesex Co. Mass. as certified to by the Secretary of that State - Also please notice the description, and age of the husband of Ruth Sotman as sworn to by

all the persons that knew him, and compare with the John Soloman who enlisted from Bilerica Middlesex Co.
The widow it is true stated to Mr. Sours as you will see from the paper attached to his affidavit, that her husband resided in Boston during the war. From an examination of all the testimony it is reasonable and just to conclude that on this point she was mistaken.
She undoubtedly got that impression from hearing him relate many incidents which occurred in Boston, where he was stationed most of the time of his service.
The place of his residence being not more than 25 or 30 miles from Boston, it would be very natural for her to entertain the belief that his home was in that city.
The fact of her being mistaken in regard to his residence, has greatly embarrassed the claim. All the witnesses who have, under oath given a description of John Soloman, have done so without leading questions being put to them, and without knowing what effect their testimony would have on the case.
With due Respect John F. Curtis

Affidavit of Thanksgiving

State of Connecticut } Fairfield County } Sherman this 22 nd day of Feb y 1854 } Personally appeared Thankful Joyce of said Sherman before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for said County who being duly cautioned and sworn doth depose and say that that I am Eighty years old I Establish my age from an old fam- ily Record. I was when the  first well acquainted with Ruth Hollister was also well acquainted with John Dotman who married Ruth Hollister. He was a man of about medium stat- ure and light or sandy complexion he came to Sherman then called New Fairfield about sixty six or sixty eight years ago he came from Middlesex County in the State of Mas- sachusetts I recollect of her living at Ezra Barlows - Ruth Hollister lived with my Father and John Dotman came there very often. they were married at my Fathers about sixty years ago They had two children and Further deponent saith not her witness. Thankful K. Joyce mark David S. Hoag

Sworn to and Subscribed before me This 22 nd day Feb y 1854 David D. Hoag Justice of the Peace
Fairfield County S.S. Thuman 22 nd February 1854 I Certify that I am well acquainted with the W id Mrs. Sarahful Dole who subscribed the foregoing Affidavit - She is a highly res- pectable woman I consider her of the as represented her mind and mem- ory appear very good and incidents of of childhood distinctly remembered My Statement made by her may be replied upon and is entitled to full credence David D Hoag Justice of the Peace
Report to John D. Curtis Huron Wayne Co. N.Y.
STATE OF CONNECTICUT, COUNTY OF FAIRFIELD, COUNTY COURT CLERK'S OFFICE, } ss.
I, Wm. P. Noble Clerk of the County Court, within and for Fairfield County, and keeper of the Seal thereof, and of the Commission of Justices of the Peace for said County, hereby certify - That
David D Hoag Esquire, was on the 22 nd day of February 1854 and now is a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly appointed, com- missioned and sworn, having full power and authority by the laws of this State, to take the acknowledgment of Deeds and other instruments, and to certify the same; also to administer Oaths, to take Affidavits and De- positions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; that full faith and credit may, and ought to be given to his official acts and attestations; that I am acquainted with his hand writing, and know that the signature to the instrument hereto annexed, purporting to be his, is his genuine official signature; and that said instrument is executed, acknowledged and duly authenticated according to the laws of this State.
In Testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand, and affix the Seal of said Court, at Bridgeport in said County and State, on this 25 th day of February A.D. 1854
Wm C Noble Clerk.

Partly Fotiun die mem m

Ruth Putman dec d . of N Y widow of John
Record & parol proof of marriage in 1791.
Proof of deaths & heirship full and regular
Service
Afpts of the 2 daughters & only children as to reportation of 3 yrs or during war in Meaps
Artif of Comptroller of Mass
John Putman of Abington 3 yrs &c (particulars) & same of do another tour 5 mo 7 das Dr as corporal 11 das 3 yrs 5 mos 11 das
John Putman of Billerica 3 yrs - and probably some 18 mos more
Transcript of Meap Rolls in this office John Putman 3 yrs from Dec 25-1776 - full service - corresponding in date & duration of service, officers names with John Putman of Abington No other name of John Putman, but that of John Putman is borne as 3 yrs man.
Search of John Putman on Pension List of Mass. - No name of John Putman on list of Meap, N.H., Ct. or N.Y. I think certificate should issue for $80. per annum

The affidavit of Ruth Rood, one of the children states that she understood her father served from Middlesex and that Billerica was named in that connection and thinks he served in '80 & '81. The Comptroller's certificate shows that John Fortman served of Billerica was a 3 yrs man & served in '81 & '82. And that among the Bounty pays of Billerica he was paid £90.
John died in 1805. and mother died Sept. 19. 1850 I think the proof of identity not quite satisfactory

Huron Wayne Co. May 27-1852 To the Com. of Pensions Sir
Enclosed please find Proof in the case of Ruth Potman Deceased, of New York Widow of John Potman
I am aware that the only doubt there can be in this case is the proof of Identity, and on this point I wish to call your particular attention. It is admitted there were two John Potmans who served in the Massachusetts line & her claim the one from Middlesex Co who enlisted in 1781 was then sixteen years old. Light complexion I offer the original history of the claim obtained from the Widow when alive to show that her husband died in 1805 and was then 40 years old which would make him 16 years old at the time of his enlistment in 1781. also please notice the testimony of Nancy Bosworth and Lydia Ann Warren in relation to the description of Applicant's husband
It is true the widow claimed her husband resided in Boston and probably this error of hers has caused much delay and perhaps prejudiced the claim.
It is but justice to admit the Wed. was mistaken on this point. from the fact that her acquaintance with her husband commenced in Connecticut after the war, and that she obtained that impression

from hearing her husband tell so much of being on the at Boston so much while in the Service
You are now in possession of all the proof that can be obtained in this case and as it is mostly of a circumstantial nature such a careful examination of all the facts and a decision in accordance therewith
With due Respect John H. Curtis

Ruth Tatham Pike Bradford Co. P.A.
X
Douglas
Sent to Mr. Madden Febry 19 - 57
FREE
John F. Curtis Post Master Huron Wayne Co N.Y.
wrote to Helen Sherman May 28 - 52
wrote to P.C. Knapp Aug 10 th 1832

Found on Roll at Boston of Capt Edward Pabbs & May's Company Regt as Corporal from Albany to R.R. - for 11 days 1780 March 25 1852
John Totman lived during the Revolutionary war in Boston Massachusetts - enlisted in the service in the year 1779 or 1780 - enlisted for during the war, served about 3 years - war closed and he was honorably discharged Place of service and Officers names not known Died Oct. 1805 aged about 40 years
Leaving a Widow Ruth whose Maiden name was Holister who was married to him in New Fairfield now Sherman Pitchfield Co. Conn. by Esq. James Potter Nov 16 th 1793 or perhaps 2 or three years sooner and possibly one year later - but positively on the 16 th of Nov. No family records. Esq. Potter is thought to have kept a record of all his marriages. The marriage may be recorded in the town of Sherman or in the Town of New Fairfield. The childrens ages may be recorded in Sherman. They are calcu- -lated as follows
Abigail Purdy born May 9 th 1796 Deceased John Totmans " July 12 th 1799 Deceased Julia (wife of John Rude) " Oct. 22 nd 1802 lives in Conklin Broome Co. N.Y. Laura Ann Warner " June 5 th 1806 lives in Pike Bradford Co. Pa.
Annity Bosworth aged 64 yrs lives in Hurick Brad- -ford Co. Pa. has known the family since her earliest recollection recollects the marriage but was not present, thinks she could not have been more than 8 or 10 years old - had quite a frolic in the neighborhood at the time
Samuel & Ellen Osborne and Widow Thankful Joie all of Sherman Pitchfield Co. Conn. were at the wedding and are supposed to be still living
Direct to Mrs. Laura Ann Warner Spencerville Bradford Co. Pa. Widow resides in Pike Bradford Co. Pa.

17th April 45. wrote to the Clerk New Fairfield " " " " also to Clerk. Sherman 12 June wrote to P.M. Sherman application for Search of Records for divorce from July 15. 45

Binghampton April 8 th 1845
Dear Sir
I have endeavored to make the history of the case of Widow Totman speak for itself. The town of New Fairfield has been divided since the marriage into two towns viz. Sherman & New Fairfield.
I did not get an order for a search of records executed because the marriage is so much in the dark. This is the case I mentioned in my last mailed at Scrapsville. I think you will undoubtedly be able to ascertain something more definite in regard to the marriage by writing to the town Clerk of Sherman - if that comes out right it must be a good case. I have just received yours of the 5 th inst. from Albany. From what I have learned I suppose my contract in the case of the widows under the law of '36 is good for nothing and shall do nothing with it until I hear from you again. I hardly think the business will warrant the employment of another hand. I take a stand in Pennsylvania in a week or two. I named Tunk-Hannock in my last letter and still think that will be a good spot. You may send me $25 or $30 dollars at that place. I hope to find Bradford and Wyoming good country. I have been taking some pretty long skents in the last two or three weeks - in this country when I get on a stream I find it best generally to follow it for some distance. I shall enclose another small case today.
Yours with esteem
Ephraim Sloss

July 1 st - sent papers to widow to execute for search of records May 15 wrote to Mr. S. M. Slann Boston March 3 rd to Emma A. Warner

State of New York
County of Westchester ss: Personally appeared before me the subscriber a justice of the peace in and for the county of Westchester in said state, Ephraim Sours of the village of Portchester in said county who after being by me duly sworn, did depose and say - That in the spring of the year 1845 the deponent called on Ruth Totman, widow of John Totman who was then living in Bradford county in the state of Pennsylvania, and obtained from her, a Power of Attorney, appointing John F. Curtis of Huron Wayne County New York, her Agent to prosecute her claim to a pension: and also at the same time this deponent obtained from the said Ruth Totman a history of the facts constituting her claim to a pension and immediately thereafter this deponent wrote said history down precisely as stated by said Ruth to this deponent: and also that the paper hereto annexed and attached is the same identical history of said claim which was written as aforesaid by this deponent. That this deponent establishes and knows the date of the writing of said history, and the making of said statement, from the date of the letter written on the same sheet and signed by this deponent.
And this deponent further says that he had not then, and has not now any interest whatever in the claim above referred to.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 16 th day of November A.D. 1852.
Ephraim Sours
James E. Beers. Justice of the Peace.
State of New York
County of Westchester, ss: I do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with the above named Ephraim Sours; that he is a gentleman

of the purest integrity: is a member of the Presbyterian Church in the village of Portchester, and in good standing: and that any statement made by him is entitled to full and perfect credit.
Dated at Portchester November 16. 1852.
James E. Beers. Justice of the Peace.
STATE OF NEW YORK,
COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER, ss.
I, ROBERT R. OAKLEY, Clerk of the County aforesaid, and also Clerk of the Courts in and for said County, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That James E. Beers Esquire, whose name is subscribed to the Certificate of the proof or acknowledgment of the annexed Instrument and endorsed thereon, was, on the day of the date of the said Certificate, a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County, residing in the said County, commissioned and sworn, and duly authorised to take the same, according to the laws of the said State. And, further, that I am well acquainted with the hand-writing of the said Justice, and verily believe that the signature to the said Certificate is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County Courts, the Nineteenth day of November 1852
Robert Oakley CLERK.

Affidavit of Eben Rodlister

State of Connecticut } ss. New Britain this Fairfield County } 15 th day of February A.D. 1854 Personally appeared before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace within & for said County Ebenezer Hollister of said New Fair- field who, after being duly sworn doth depose and say that I was Eighty five years old the 13 th day of last June - that from my earliest recollection I have been well acquainted with Ruth Hollister (we were both bro't up in the same town & in the same neighborhood) I was also well acquainted with John Johnson he came to live in that part of New Fair- field called Sherman one or two years after the close of the Revolutionary War - he came from Middlesex County in  then state of Massachusetts I state the time of his coming into Sherman (then New Fairfield) thus particularly from the fact that he came into the neighbor- hood where I lived and commenced work for Esqr Barlow while I was living with Moses Waugh, where I went to live when I was sixteen years old (he came to Barlow's the first year I lived with Waugh)

I always understood that he was a Continental Soldier I have heard him tell a great many times, of being in the service I have heard him relate incidents that occurred during the war, which I have heard  others relate who I knew were in the war. I have heard him talk with Continental soldiers about their sufferings &c. And I never had any doubt but what he had been a Continental soldier. I always supposed he was some four or five years older than myself. He was a man rather below the medium stature and of light complexion — He had two children by Ruth Hollister — he has been dead I think about fifty years — the widow Potman with her two children went west, the last I heard from them the widow was dead and further deponent saith not —
Witness David S. Hoag      his Ebenezer K. Hollister mark
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 15 th day February A 1854 David S. Hoag Justice of the Peace

Fairfield County S.S. thereon 15 th Feb y 1854 I Certify that I am well acquainted with Ebenezer Hollister who subscribed the forego- ing Affidavit, and that he is a highly re- spectable man, — I consider him of the age represented, — and that his mind and memory seem unimpaired by age, to a degree almost without a parallel. And any statement made by him may be relied upon, and is entitled to full Credence. David D. Hoag Justice of the Peace
STATE OF CONNECTICUT, COUNTY OF FAIRFIELD, COUNTY COURT CLERK'S OFFICE, } ss.
I, Wm H Wolle CLERK
of the County Court, within and for Fairfield County, and keeper of the Seal thereof, and of the Commission of Justices of the Peace for said County, hereby certify — THAT
David D. Hoag ESQUIRE, was on the 15 th day of February 1854 and now is a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly appointed, com- missioned and sworn, having full power and authority by the laws of this State, to take the acknowledgment of Deeds and other instruments, and to certify the same; also to administer Oaths, to take Affidavits and De- positions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; that full faith and credit may, and ought to be given to his official acts and attestations; that I am acquainted with his hand writing, and know that the signature to the instrument hereto annexed, purporting to be his, is his genuine official signature; and that said instrument is executed, acknowledged and duly authenticated according to the laws of this State.
In Testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand, and affix the Seal of said Court, at Bridgeport in said County and State, on this 25 th day of February A.D. 1854
Wm H Wolle Clerk.
Report to John H. Curtis Huron Wayne, C.M.

State of New York County of Wayne ss Personally appeared before the undersigned a Vester of the peace in and for said County John H. Curtis of Huron in said County who after being duly sworn according to law deposes and saith. That he was employed by Ruth Folsom during her lifetime, and subsequently by her children to prosecute her claim to a pension as the Widow of John Folsom deceased. That he applied to the Secret- ary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for a search of Rolls and Records for the service of John Folsom in 1845, and again in 1852 as will appear by papers herewith. That on the receipt of the inclosed Certificate of Service dated March 18 th 1852. This deponent addressed a letter to Syra A. Warren the daughter of the said Ruth Folsom with whom she lived previous to her death making enquiries Relative to the age and description of her Father the said John Folsom. That the paper marked B. and attached to the Declaration and other proof, is the identical letter so sent with the answers on the back as received by this deponent That the said Syra Ann Warren resides at least one hundred and fifty Miles from this deponent and that at the time she wrote the answers to the questions proposed by this deponent, she did not know that any application for service had been made, or for what particular purpose. The questions were proposed as this deponent sincerely believes Subscribed and sworn before me This 26 th day of July - 1852 } John H. Curtis
M. W. Gage Justice

State of New York Wayne County P: I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with John F. Curtis within named. That he is a man of good character and respectability, and whose acts are entitled to full faith and credit. Also that I am well acquainted with his hand writing and believe his signature hereon is genuine.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of said County (my Official Seal) this 31 st day of July A.D. 1852
Susan P. Smith Clerk of Wayne County and of the County of Record thereof

STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss. Wayne County Clerk's Office, }
I, SAXON B. GAVITT, Clerk of the County Court in and for the County and State above mentioned, Do hereby certify that W. N. Hoge whose genuine signature appears to the annexed jurat was at the time of signing the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county and state aforesaid, duly elected and sworn; that all his official acts, as such, are entitled to full faith and credit; and that the aforesaid County Court is a Court of Record, having general jurisdiction, a Clerk and seal.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal, (the seal of said Court and County) at Lyons, this 20th day of July 1852.
S. B. Gavitt CLERK.