Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 6585, John Woodside, N.C.

SERVICE
NUMBER _____
Woodside, John Jane.
N 6585
B. M. 18205-160-55-
CONTENTS

133398 Act of Congress
18/11/1861 May 14
Jane Woodside vid John Woodside Pri
Capt Jackson
North Carolina Mil:
Enf Leg N.C.
Rev. War
Rev. pensioned
N.C. July 48-6255
W:W.O.A., March, 10/78.
Bluffton,
James E. Kerr
Salisbury N.C.
Vol. W. 102. -

6255
North Carolina Fayetteville Jane Woodside widow of John NC Woodside who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a fife & drum
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 50 Dollars 00
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 18 th day of May 1847 and sent to
J. E. Kerr Esqr Care Hon. B. Craig House of Reps
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 246 Vol. 1

15.3 J D 2.0 5.3.6 24.3  36.14.6 120  8178.4 S 2191.75  10370.37 1/2
34 days as summer
A

State of North Carolina Rowan County
It is hereby certified that the Bearer John Woodside and his wife has lived in the bounds of this con- -gregation since their childhood and behav- -ed themselves Honorably and Industriously and have had their Children Baptized as orderly Members of the Church and now at their departure are free from any Scandal known to us.
Certified at Coddle Creek this 13 th day of January 1789 by John Braly

State of North Carolina } Iredell County }
On this the 24 day of February one thousand eight hundred and fifty two, personally appeared before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County, Francis Cochran who first being sworn according to law, on her oath makes the following statement; That she is eighty two years old; that she was well acquainted with John Woodside in the time of the revolutionary war, living at that time in the same family with the said Woodside in the County of Cabarrus, State aforesaid: that she was young at the time, but re- collects very distinctly that the said Woodside was absent from home a large portion of the time during the war in service as a horseman: That she heard said Woodside in the time of the war, at intervals when at home, speak of his services, but under what officers he served, she does not now recollect. She further states, that she was present at the marriage of John Woodside & Jane Cochran, which took place near the close of the war at the house of Robert Cochran in the County of Rowan, & that they were united in Wedlock by one - McCall a presbyterian minister
Francis her Cochran mark
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written; And I hereby certify, that Francis Cochran is a respectable citizen of the County aforesaid & entitled to full credit, & further that she is too infirm to be taken to a court of record.
J L Blackburn JP

State of North Carolina
Sedall County 3 d D. F. Alexander Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County of Sedall do hereby certify that J. G. Blackwell is a Magistrate as above and the signature purporting to be his is genuine In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of my office in Statesville this 27 th day of February A.D. 1852
D. F. Alexander Clerk of Sedall County Court
Any statement Francis Lockhart may make may be relied upon J. G. Blackwell M. G.

No 14652
Jane Woodside
India of John
N.C.
July 7. 1888
Jamie E. Kerr,
Salisbury N.C.

The State of North Carolina } County of Cabarrus }
On this the 26 th day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty two, personally appeared before me Peter Rumble, an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County of Cabarrus, State of North Carolina, Jane Woodside a resident of the County and State aforesaid, aged eighty nine 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 7 th 1838, entitled. "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows": That she is the widow of John Woodside who was a private soldier in the war of the revolution; that he joined the army as a volunteer, shortly after the commencement of the war, under the command of Captain Joseph Dickson in the 1 st Regiment of Rowan Militia, commanded by Colonel Griffith Rutherford, and served a tour of three months, during which time he was on an expedition to Fayetteville; that he served a second tour of three months under the command of Captain Simmons, in the year 1777, (infantry) in the 1 st Regiment of Rowan Militia, commanded by Colonel Griffith Rutherford; that he served a third tour of three months in the year 1777, under the command of Captain John Dickey, Colonel Lockhart commanding and whilst under said command was in the battle of Ramsour's Mill, in the County of Lincoln, State of North Carolina: That her said husband then volunteered in a Cavalry Company (1778), under what subordinate officers this declarant has now forgotten, and served in the State of South Carolina but was part of

the time as this declarant believes in the regiment commanded by Colonel William Folk, and served in South Carolina until the winter of the year 1780 1780, attached to General Sumpter's Brigade: That in the months of January or February 1781, her said husband was honorably discharged, having been in actual service as an infantry soldier six nine months and as a dragoon more than two years. She further declares that she was married to the said John Woodside in the month of October A.D., 1781, that her name previous to her marriage was Jane Levesque, and that her husband the aforesaid John Woodside died in the month of April 1793, and that she has remained a widow ever since that period. Jane W Woodside mark
Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written: And I hereby certify that the declarant Jane Woodside is so informed in body that she can not be taken to a court of record to make this de- claration: I further certify that the intention of the age of declarant and the date 1780 in the for- going declaration was made before signing Pe r Rumble J.P.

State of North Carolina, Cabarrus County
I, R. W. Foard clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter sessions for the County of Cabarrus, State aforesaid, do hereby certify, that Peter Krumple Esqum who certifies the foregoing declaration of Sam Woodside is and was at the date of said certificate an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified, having authority by law to administer oaths, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal, at office in Concord, this the 30 th day of March A. D. 1852.
R W Foard clk

State of North Carolina } Rowan County }
On this the 31 st day of August, A.D. 1852, personally appeared before me an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County, Jane Woodside, who being first duly sworn according to law, on her oath makes the following statement; That she is now fifty three years of age; that she is the daughter of Archibald Woodside late of Rowan County, State of North Carolina, who was a soldier of the Revolution, and a prisoner of the United States until the period of his death, which took place July 13 th 1844; that she recollects to have heard her father speak frequently of the services of John Woodside, his brother, of Rowan County, in the war of the revolution, stating that John Woodside served the greater part of the time during the war, serving much longer than he, Archibald Woodside did; that he served in the earlier part of the war as an infantry soldier under the commands of Captain John Dickey, (Captain Dickson • Captain Huggins (Nuttin)) ; that he afterwards joined a company of dragoons under the command of one Locke and continued in service in that capacity until the close of the campaign under General Greene in South Carolina; that she recollects hearing the said Archibald Woodside say, that after the battle of Eutaw Springs, he, Archibald, left the army and came home, and being asked by the affiant if his brother John returned with him? he answered, no, that he

Archibald and one Joseph Kim of Rowan returned together, that they were wagons during that campaign, & sold out and returned from that point, but that John Woodside belonged to a company of dragoons and could not leave, but continued in service until the close of the campaign; that she recollects asking the said Archibald Woodside how it happened that his brother John served longer than he did; to which he replied, that he, Archibald, has a family during the war, and John had not: that she recollects hearing the said Archibald Woodside say, that John Woodside was a blacksmith by trade, and made the sword which he soon after he served in the Cavalry. This affiant further states that she lived in the family of her father, the said Archibald Woodside until the time of his death, and that he spoke very frequently of the incidents of the Revolutionary war , in which he was an actor.
Jane Woodside
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written, and I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Jane Woodside, and that she is a credible person
Hugh Parlis Jr

State of North Carolina Rowan County } I, James E. Ken Clerk of
the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid, certify that Hugh Parks Esquire, who subscribes the foregoing affidavit of Jane Woodside, is and was at the date of said certificate, an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly Commissioned and qualified, and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal this the 13 th day of September 1852
James E. Ken Clerk

Jane Woodside 133398
Bounty Land Claim Act of 3 rd March 1855 Original Application
Address
Janus Ekin Salisbury N.C.

State of North Carolina, County of Cabarrus } S
On this 25 th day of April, A. D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace within and for the County and State aforesaid, Jane Woodside, aged 94 years, a resident of Cabarrus County, in the State of North Carolina, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the widow of John Woodside, deceased who was a private and drummer in the revolutionary war in the Company commanded by Captain Dickson in the Regiment commanded by — and continued in actual service in said war for the term of fourteen days. She further states that she was married to the said John Woodside on the day of October, 1782, and that her name before her said marriage was Jane Cochran; that her said husband died on the day of April 1893, and that she is now a widow. She further states that she was placed on the pension list under the act of February 2 d 1848, at the rate of Fifty dollars and one cent per annum, and that her pension certificate bears date the 18 th day of May, 1854, and she now refers to the papers on file in the Pension office, upon which her said certificate was granted, for proof of the services of her said husband, the date of his death, and the date of her marriage.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty laws to which she may be entitled under the act of March 3 d , 1855, and she hereby declares that she has not heretofore made application for, nor received any bounty

land warrant under this or any other act of Congress.
Her Jane Woodside mark.
We, William N. Gillon and Thomas A Fleming residents of Cabarrus County, in the State of North Carolina, upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Jane Woodside in our presence, and that we believe from the appearance and statements of the applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
Wm N Gillon T A Fleming
The foregoing declarations and affidavits were sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim.
Jeff Rumble J.P.

State of North Carolina
Cabarrus County
I J. W. Scott Clerk of the Court of Pleas and quarter Sessions for said County, Certify that Peter Brumple is an acting Justice of the peace in & for said County of Cabarrus as above and and that his signature is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affix- ed the Seal of Office at Concord On this the 4 th of May 1853 J. W. Scott C. C.

State of North Carolina Rowan County 5
On this the 19 day of April A.D., 1852, personally came Mary Woodside before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, who being duly sworn according to law, states that she is fifty eight years of age, that she is the niece of John Woodside, that she has often heard her father, who was the brother of said John Woodside, say that the said John Woodside was drowned by the washing away of a sand mill in South Carolina about the time this affiant was born; that the above has been the received tradition of the manner in which John Woodside died as far back as she can recollect, & that he had many near relations in the neighborhood where she was raised & when John Woodside once lived. Mary Woodside
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written; and I hereby certify that Mary Woodside is a reputable citizen of said County
Hugh Paris J.P.

State of North Carolina Rowan County
I James E. Kerr Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid, certify that Hugh Parks Esquire, who attests the within affidavit of Mary Woodson, is and was at the date of this certificate an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County duly commissioned & qualified, and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal this the 2 nd day of June 1852.
James E. Kerr Clerk

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 6585
Jane Woodside wid John Woodside Rev. Rev. War.
Act: Feb. 28/48
Index:—Vol. 16 , Page 353
[Arrangement of 1870.]

no 14,6526 Jane Woodside m a of John
N.C.
Les 9.8 Klein July 26/82 J.E. Kerr (same) Aug 23/82 same Feb 7/83
July 1, 1898!

Salisbury, N.C. June 28 th , -52.
Dear Sir
In drawing up the declaration of Sam Woodside, under the act of July 7 th 1838, I omitted to state that she was married in Rowan County. I now enclose you an affidavit of Mrs Woodside, intended to supply that defect, & to be taken as part of her declaration. The testimony in the case is now before you - Very Respectfully, Yours Abt. Smith James E. Kerr
Hon. J. E. Heath

January 25 th 1785, It is hereby Certify'd that the bearer John Woodside & his wife have behaved in a prudent Christian manner, and he has been helpful in supporting the Gospel in this Congregation Given under my hand at Coddle-Creek
John Braly

State of North Carolina { Comptroller's Office
I, William J. Clarke, Comptroller of public accounts in and for the State aforesaid, do hereby certify that it appears of record in my office, among the payments made by said State to sundry persons for Military services in the Revolutionary War, as follows, to wit:
John Woodsides
Book No. 5, page 43 £ 5. S 3. D 5. specie
" " " " " £ 2 S 5 — "
Vol. C. No. 8466 £ 5 S 3 D 6 — "
" E. S. page 46 £ 241 S 10 currency paid May 1779 the Depreciation then being ten for one, consequently the specie value is £ 24. S 3 —
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my seal of Office this 20 th day of March 1852
Wm J. Clarke Compt r
John Woodsides also appears as a drummer, in Captain Joseph Dickson's Company, 1st. Regt. Rowan Militia, commanded by Col. Griffith Rutherford, Expedition to Moore's Creek January & February 1776, and as having then served 34 days at 3p £ 5. S 2 specie, (Old series No. 2 page 30 —
Wm J. Clarke Compt r

Salisbury, N. C., June 2 nd '53.
Dear Sir
I herewith enclose you some additional evidence to be filed with the claim of Jane Woodsides, forwarded to the Pension Office on the 6 th of April last. I would respectfully request an early examination of this claim.
Very respectfully, Your Affec. Sec. James E. Kern
Hon. J. E. Heath Commr. of Pensions Washington City.

Home of Rep. W. J. May 3 rd 1854
Hon. L. P. Waldo,
Sir,
I herewith enclose you some additional tes- timony in the case of Jane Woodside of North Carolina for a Pension together with a written argument in fa- vor of the same and her Attorney James E. Kerr Esq. I know nothing of the claimant or the merits of her claim, but find a long and inti- mate acquaintance with her attorney M aj . Kerr, I have no hesitation in expressing the belief that he would urge no claim of the merits of which he was not well satisfied -
Your early attention

to this matter will much oblige him,
Yours with respectfully
Arthur Crane

Capt Simmons Dickey " Jos Dickson
Thos Steele Jane Woodside Francis Cochran Mary Woodside John Cochran Mr Fleming
183 2 8 8  176 46  1790
Rev J. P. Walker Commr of Internal Revenue Washington City

Salisbury, N. C., April 28 th - 1854
Dear Sir
I herewith enclose you additional proof in support of the claim of Jane Woodside, of Cabarrus County, N. C., filed under the act of 1838. This claim was forwarded to the Pension Office April 5 th , 1852, and has been twice examined and suspended, the evidence of the service of the husband not being deemed sufficient to authorize its admission. Your records will, probably, show three reports upon this claim, but the second adjudication was upon the affidavits of the Hon. J. P. Baldwin as to the credibility of the witnesses John and Francis Goodwin, and not upon any additional proof touching the merits of the application.
The grounds of objection to the admission of this claim, as communicated to me by your predecessor, Mr Heath, are, first, - That the claimant delayed too long her application. Second - That the proof makes a longer term of service than claimed in the declaration, and third - That the testimony offered to identify her husband with the person named in the Constitution's certificate is insufficient - the rules of the department requiring that this should be done by the evidence of persons who

served in the war with him.
I have, heretofore, briefly noticed these objections in my letters to Mr. Heath, but I hope I will be excused for again presenting a few observations in reply to them. I have not been able to persuade myself that much importance could have been attached to the first objection. It is true that in ordinary business dealings the omission to assert a claim for a long period of time throws suspicion upon it, for it is inconsistent with our experience of the motives and conduct of men to believe that they will sleep upon their rights, and upon this known principle in human nature, and for reasons which I will not here advert to, provisions in the form of statute of limitations are embodied into all legal codes to prevent the enforcement of stale claims. But this is a proceeding not analogous in every particular to the prosecution of suits in our Courts of law. Our government has, by a series of acts, provided a bounty for the men who perilled their lives for it, establishment, and in its munificence has extended this bounty to the families these men, and all who can place themselves within the provisions of these acts are entitled to claim. Would it have been contemplated that meritorious soldiers of the revolution or their families should be excluded from this bounty, because by ignorance of their rights they failed for a season to prosecute them? Has the government in these several acts dispensing its bounty introduced a stern rule excluding all who do not apply within a given time? Assuredly,

no such rule exists, if it does, it has escaped my observation. If this objection is tenable, it would apply with equal force to all claims presented at, or since the date of the Woodside application; yet I will venture the assertion that hundreds of claims have been presented since that date, and many allowed, when children claim for the father or the mother, they having failed to prosecute their claims in their lifetimes. I do not regard the government as occupying the position of a litigant towards applicants for pensions - pleading the lapse of time in evidence of meritorious claims; on the contrary, I view her as towards this class of men,  occupying a great almoner, ready and solicitous to extend this bounty to all who come with the evidence that they contributed their mite in the struggle which achieved our independence.
The second objection, in my view, rests upon the third; for if it can be shown that the proof of identity is sufficient, it ceases to have any force. The ground upon which this objection is based, so far from prejudicing the claim of Mrs Woodside, ought really to entitle the application to favor. The fact that she claims a smaller amount of pension than is established by the Comptroller's certificates, shows the extreme caution with which her declaration has been made, and that she has been scrupulously conscientious in reciting only what she clearly recollected. But should she not have the full benefit of the term of service shown by the certificates, if the proof identifies her husband with

the person therein accredited with service. It can not be expected that widows whose marriages took place subsequent to the revolution, would be able to state with accuracy the particulars of the husband's service. In the great majority of cases their information must have been derived from the husband, and when the husband died early after the war, as in this case, exact accuracy can not be looked for. If in this case there was a conformity in the service claimed in the declaration and that shown by the certificate, it might be urged with much force that this accordance in every particular was a circumstance of fraud, for at this remote period it can not be reasonably supposed that a superannuated old woman could give a minute history of the service of her husband, he having been dead fifty years.
I now come to the third objection - "that the proof of identity must be made by the companions in arms of the soldier". With all proper respect for the opinion of Mr Heast, I am constrained to say, that this rule of evidence to the extent here claimed , if ever adopted, has not been observed in the examination of pension claims. I have known many claims, which have been admitted, when the proof of identity was made by others than soldiers who served with the person to be identified. What reason is there in such a rule? Is not the testimony of a credible witness having sufficient

opportunities of information as to the fact in question, competent to establish that fact? It is so held in all works on evidence. It will not be insisted, I presume, that the testimony of soldiers of the war is invested with any peculiar sanctity or binding influence beyond what is accorded to other men, & the only reason why it is desirable to have their testimony in support of these claims is, that their opportunities of knowing the facts to which they depose have been favorable. If then it be shown that a witness, not a soldier, but a contemporary with the period of the war, has enjoyed sufficient opportunities of knowing the facts sought to be established, and is furthermore, I am at a loss to conceive upon what principle of reason or law this testimony can be excluded. If I am correct in the premises here presented, is not the testimony of John Cochran entitled to as much weight as it would have been had actually served in the war? I do not propose to recur the evidence in this case, but I will draw your indulgence for one moment whilst I show that John Cochran enjoyed the most ample opportunities of knowing the service of John Woodsidey - Cochran in the time of the war was old enough to note & recollect the oc-

opportunities of information as to the fact in question, competent to establish that fact? It is so held in all works on evidence. It will not be insisted, I presume, that the testimony of soldiers of the war is invested with any peculiar sanctity or binding influence beyond what is accorded to other men, & the only reason why it is desirable to have their testimony in support of these claims is, that their opportunities of knowing the facts to which they depose have been favorable. If then it be shown that a witness, not a soldier, but a contemporary with the progress of the war, has enjoyed sufficient opportunities of knowing the facts sought to be established, and is trustworthy, I am at a loss to conceive upon what principle of reason or law this testimony can be excluded. If I am correct in the premises here presented, is not the testimony of John Lockman entitled to as much weight as it would have been had he actually served in the war? I do not propose to review the evidence in this case, but I will crave your indulgence for one moment whilst I show that John Lockman enjoyed the most ample opportunities of knowing the service of John Woodside - Lockman in the time of the war was old enough to note & recollect the oc-

circumstances of the times - he lived within a mile of the residence of Woodside. Companies were organized in the neighborhood under the command of different officers, who were likewise well known to Cochran, & in these companies he saw Woodside bearing arms - he saw these companies at their places of rendezvous before engaging in actual service, & Woodside a member of them - he saw these companies go forth on service, and again after intervals return, & Woodside still with them. Further, after Woodside was attached to the cavalry, he, (W) being a blacksmith, forged his own sword, and Cochran made the scabbard - this sword W. wore until the termination of the war, & with it did most gallant service for his country. Does it not appear then, that Cochran had abundant opportunity of knowing the facts embodied in his affidavit? Why should his testimony not be received? he is a man of high respectability, and of unquestionable veracity, and so shown to be by the statement of the Hon. J. P. Calandri.
The testimony enclosed will, I think, remove all doubt as to the identity of John Woodside, the husband of Sarah, with the John Woodside named in the certificate of the Comptroller of this State. The affidavit of John Cochran negatives the possibility that the John Woodside whose name appears on the books of the Compt. could have been any other than the person under

whom we claim. I have not a copy of the Compt certificate, but my recollection is, that Capt Dickson is mentioned as one of the officers under whom Woodside served - Colonel Swan that he was well acquainted with, & a neighbor of Capt Dickson, & that no other man by the name of John Woodside served under his command in the revolutionary war. The affidavits of Robert Carrigan and James Sloan are offered to show that John Woodside was recognized as a soldier of the revolution by men who were known to have served in the war, & some of whom served with him. You will remark that the statements of Carrigan, Sloan, Stute and Sam Woodside as to the tradition of J n Woodside served, all accord most remarkably with the positive testimony of John Cochran, and would be strongly corroborative of his testimony if it needed support.
I will ask of you the favor to give this claim an early examination - It has been pending a long time, & the claimant is very old and ex- tremely infirm.
I am, Very respectfully, Your Abt Servt James E. Kerr
Hon L. P. Waldo Commr. of Pensions

Brief in the case of Jane Woodside widow of John County and State of North Carolina act July 7 / 83 87 c
Claim, ("original," "for increase." )
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Records of Service, Church letters, showing that they were living as man & wife as early as 1785; Thos Steele, Jane Woodside, John Cochran & for identity
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Name and residence of Agent J. S. Kerr Esq., Salisbury N.C. Care of Hon B. Craige H.W. 12
Thornton Triplett
Examining Clerk.

Jane Woodside widow of John N c adm d ,
July 7 / 1838 9 ,
13 mos 924 d p r i $45.87 34 d d m m 4.14 $50.01
per annum from 4 March 1836,
73 3/4 capt 2 yrs,
Cert to J. E. Kerr Esq Salisbury, N c care of Hon B. Craige H o N c

Dec 2: 14/82
Rec: to claim of Jane Woodside
Pension Claim
FREE
J. G. Heath
Summons of J. G. Heath
Washington City - D.C.
J. G. Heath Nov 8/82 at 33 King Street

Salisbury N. C. Dec r 8 th - 1852.
Dear Sir
Allow me to ask your attention to the claim of Mrs Jane Woodside of Cabarrus County, N. C. Some three months ago, I received a letter from you notifying me, "that the claim had been examined, that the marriage previous to '44 was admitted, but that the proof of the service of the husband was not considered sufficient. After the receipt of your letter, I took the affidavits of Thomas Stule, Jane Woodside and John Gochran, and forwarded them to your office. I would now respectfully ask a reconsideration of the claim, upon the additional testimony furnished, at your earliest convenience. I think the evidence now before you, divests the claim of every feature of suspicion, & indeed, if I am capable of correctly estimating the force of evidence, fully sustains it.
Very respectfully, Your Ob d Servt. James E. Kerr
Rev. James E. Heath Convers t . of Presby. Washington City

State of North Carolina, Iredell County 5
On this the 23 d day of April 1852, personally came before me, an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, of Iredell W m F. Watts and Jas. S. King and made oath in due form of law, that they are well acquainted with John Lochran and Francis Lochran of Iredell County; that they are highly respectable persons and entitled to full credit on oath.
W m F. Watts Jas. S. King
Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written; And I hereby cer- tify that W m F. Watts and Jas. S. King are respectable citizens of said County
W. B. Grant J.P.
State of North Carolina Iredell County 3
I J. F. Alexander Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for said County Certify that W. B. Grant is a Magistrate as above and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my Office in Statesville this 24 th day of April A.D. 1852 J. F. Alexander Clerk of Iredell County Court

State of North Carolina Rowan County
I James E. Kerr Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid, certify, that I have made diligent search in my office for the marriage bond of John Woodside, authorizing the issuing of a license for the celebration of a marriage between said John Woodside and Jane Leechman, but no such bond or record can be found.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal this the 5 th day of April 1852.
James E. Kerr Clerk

Salisbury, N.C., Sept 14 th - 1852.
Dear Sir
I have received two letters from you in relation to the claim of Jane Woodside of Cabarrus County, in which you inform me, that the relation of husband and wife prior to 1779, is admitted, but that the proof of the services of the husband is not made out; that the John Woodside in whose favor I have produced certain evidence from the office of the Comptroller of N.C. is not identified as the husband of the applicant; the testimony of John & Francis Cochran not being entitled to consideration, "mere neighborhood reputation is not the testimony required, but that of comrades &c". If I am to understand from your letter, that in all cases when record evidence is produced, that claimants can not avail themselves of it, without proving a connection by comrades in the army, this claim might as well be abandoned. It would be ill to undertake the prosecution of any claim from this region of our State, if this strictness is to be observed; for all the men of the revolution have passed away - there is but one living in this County, a superannuated German, & in the County of Cabarrus there is not a soldier of the revolution living. But the testimony of John & Francis Cochran, fairly considered, can not be classed with neighborhood reputation. John Cochran, tho' not an actor in the war, was, if

I have not misapprehended the import of his testimony, personally cognizant of most of the facts to which he deposes. He does not speak of his knowledge of Woodside's services in the war, as being derived from what he had heard others say, but as being the result of personal observation. What were his opportunities? He lived within a half mile of Woodside; he had an opportunity of seeing him when each company in which he served rendezvoused; he knew how long the several companies were in service; he saw him return with the respective companies & in this way obtained the knowledge of the facts embodied in his affidavit. Frances Lockhart was a member of Woodside's family during the war, & had the best possible opportunity of knowing the facts to which she swears.
You urge as an objection to the claim, the omission of Mrs. Woodside to prosecute at an earlier period. I am aware, that in ordinary legal proceedings, sleeping too long on one's rights, raises a presumption adverse to the party; but this case is capable of an explanation which will remove from it all suspicion on this ground. The truth is, that this claimant was ignorant, until a short time before the filing of her declaration, of the fact that Congress had passed laws giving pensions to the widows of revolutionary soldiers. She received many years ago an injury, which from the time, has confined her to her house, & the greater part of the time to her bed; and altho' a woman of more than common capacity of mind, like most persons of her age, she does not read. Owing

to this fact, she was cut off from all information except what she might derive from those who might come to her house. As an additional circumstance explaining why Mrs Woodside should have remained so long in ignorance of her rights, I will mention, that very little attention has been given to these claims, until within the last twelve months, in this region of country, & no pension agent has been in our section, unless on a transient visit to the village - Mrs M. lives in a remote corner of her county. I have not taken any testimony on this point, it is a negative matter that could be certainly shown only by the oath of the claimant, & further, because I believe that the evidence of disinterested persons, which I now send you, will remove from the claim every shadow of suspicion. I now enclose you the affidavits of Thomas Stute, Sam Woodside and John Cochran. In the examination of this testimony, you will remark the coincidence & agreement in the statements of the different testifiers  testimony (with the testimony) already before you. I would respectfully request an early re-examination of this claim.
I remain, very respectfully, Yours Affly & S ly , James E. Eakin
Dear J. E. Eakin Washington City

Salisbury, N. C. April 6 th 1852.
Dear Sir
I herewith enclose you the declaration of Mrs Jane Woodside under the act of July 7 th 1838, together with accompanying proofs of service of the husband John Woodside, marriage, & death of the husband. The applicant claims for two years and nine months service of the husband; that is, two years as dragoon, & nine months infantry service. To support this claim, I would adduce as evidence first, the certificate of the Comptroller of this State, which is relied upon to establish the infantry service. In addition to the evidence contained in the Comptroller's certificate, you are referred upon this part of the claim, to the affidavits of John Cochran & Francis Cochran. - John Cochran proves a service on the part of the husband John Woodside, under three several officers, Captain Summers, Dickey & Dickson, making necessarily, a term of nine months, three months being the shortest engagement of service. The names of the superior officers are not given in the affidavit, but it is apparent, when viewed in connection with the Comptroller's certificate, that it was in the 1 st Regiment Roman Militia, as laid in the declaration of Mrs Woodside. Your attention is here called to the accordance between the affidavit of John Cochran, and the certificate of the Compt r . Cochran states that "J r Woodside served a term of three months to Fayetteville, under the command of Col l Joseph Dickson". The certificate of the Compt r proves that "Woodside served as drummer in Capt y Joseph Dickson's Company, 1 st Regt. Roman Militia, commanded by Col l Griffith Rutherford, expedition to Morris Creek". These two statements are substantially the same - Cochran styles Dickson, Colonel, when in fact he was at the time only Captain; and speaks of Fayetteville as the point to which the expedition was directed, whereas, the certificate says it was

to Moores Creek. This discrepancy is only apparent. The expedition was directed against a gathering of Tories near Moores Creek, a short distance west of Fayetteville, and it is more frequently spoken of in common parlance, as the expedition to Fayetteville, than Moores Creek, the former being the most important place near the locality. You will perceive from an examination of the dates of the two papers, that the certificate of the Comptroller bears date near a month after the affidavit of Cochran; so that this coincidence can not be the result of any information or suggestion derived from the certificate of the Compt., but is explainable only upon the assumption, that Cochran knew the facts to which he deposed, & swore the truth. This corroboration of the witness John Cochran by record proof, together with the highly respectable character which it will be shown he has in the community in which he lives, entitles him, by all rules of evidence, to the most unreserved credence.
The evidence of the two years service as dragoon rests upon the testimony of John Cochran & Francis Cochran. Can their testimony be doubted? Is there a possibility that they can be mistaken? John Cochran was twenty one years of age at the termination of the war, & lived near neighbor to Woodside - within less than a mile of his residence. He had the best possible opportunity to know the facts to which he swears. There is no avoiding the force of his testimony, it is conclusive, convincing. The testimony of the other witness Francis Cochran, is more general; she does not undertake to specify any particular service, or to name the officers under whom Woodside served; nevertheless, her statement is entitled to much weight - she was a member of the family of the soldier Woodside, during the war, & she is clear & distinct in her recollection that he was in service as a dragoon a large portion of the time . John Cochran's testimony is, that Woodside served as dragoon

more than two years . The fact that the witnesses do not give the names of the officers under whose command Woodside served, is not to be wondered at, nor should it be considered as detracting from the force of their evidence; this service, agreeably to the statements of both, was in the State of South Carolina, remote from their residences, & it is not to be expected that they would be as familiar with the names of the officers, as they were with those engaged in the war in their immediate vicinity; such as Captains Summers, Dickey & Dickson. The claim then, for two years service as dragoon, is urged with confidence. The claimant swears to it in her declaration; then in support of her statement, follows the direct, positive & unequivocal evidence of two witnesses, shown to be entitled to credit, & possessing opportunities of information which forbids the supposition that they can be mistaken as to the facts to which they depose.
The marriage is stated to have taken place in the month of October, 1781, in the County of Rowan. You will find among the papers, the certificate of the Clerk of the County Court of Rowan, in which he states, he has made diligent search in his office for the marriage license bond of John Woodside, (this being the only evidence of marriage preserved in this state at that period) but that no such record can be found. Having thus shown that no record proof of the marriage can be obtained; the affidavits of John Cochran & Francis Cochran are offered to establish the fact. They both swear that they were present at the celebration of the marriage between John Woodside, and Jane Cochran; that it took place at the residence of Robert Cochran, in the County of Rowan, & that the nuptial rites were solemnized by one M c Call a Presbyterian Minister. In addition to this evidence, I enclose you two old papers, marked A & B, which are

church certificates, signed by John Braly, who I infer was an officer at Caddle Creek Church at the time, tho' he does not sign officially. By an inspection of the papers, you will be satisfied that they are genuine, & were given at the dates they respectively bear. These papers show a public recognition of the relationship of marriage between John Woodside & his wife as early as the year 1785, & a similar recognition in the year 1789. & the birth of children who were received into the church by the ordinance of baptism.
The affidavit of William Fleming proves the death of John Woodside to have occurred some time previous to the year 1800.
I observe in the declaration of Mrs Woodside, I have omitted to state she was married in Rowan County. I will take her affidavit to that effect, & forward it to you. I will also forward you testimony establishing the respectable character of John & Frances Leishman.
I am, very Respectfully, Your Abt. Serv't, James E. Kerr
James E. Heath Esq. Counsel of Pensions Washington City.

State of South Carolina Indell County } 1882
On this the 31 st day of August, A.D. 1882 personally appears before me an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County, Thomas Steele, who being first duly sworn according to law, on his oath makes the following statement; That he is fifty six years of age, that he was well acquainted with Archibald Woodside deceased, late of Roman County, South Carolina, who was a soldier of the Revolution, and a prisoner of the United States until the period of his death, which took place in the year 1845; That he has frequently heard the said Archibald Woodside speak of the services of John Woodside in the Revolutionary war, in which he stated, that he, John Woodside, served under the command of Captain John Dickey as an infantry soldier; that he served as a dragoon in South Carolina, and that being a blacksmith by trade, he made the swords which he won and which he whilst a member of a Cavalry Company; that he Archibald Woodside left the army in South Carolina after the battle of Eutaw Springs (being then in the capacity of wagoner) and that John Woodside remained until the close of the campaign, saying that John Woodside served a longer period during the war than he Archibald did.
Thomas Steele Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written; and I hereby certify that Thomas Steele is a credible person John M. Gray J.P.

State of North Carolina Iredell County } J. F. Alexander Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County of Iredell do hereby Certify That Mrs. M. Gray is a Magistrate as above and the signature purporting to be his is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office at office in Statesville this 6 th day of September A.D. 1852
J. F. Alexander Clerk

State of North Carolina Iredell County }
On this the 10 th day of September A.D. 1852, personally appeared Nelson Cox, an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, John Leekman, who being duly sworn according to law, on his oath makes the following statement; that in addition to the facts heretofore sworn to by him in relation to the services of John Woodside in the Revolutionary war, he now recollects further, that he saw John Woodside in service as a light horseman under the command of Captain Dickson; that the father of the affiant, Robert Leekman, was the in the service of Captain Dickson; that he has heard his father Robert Leekman, who was a soldier of the revolution speak of the services of John Woodside & say that he Leekman was an ensign in a company of infantry commanded by Captain Dickson and that said Woodside was a private in said company and that they served a tour to Fayetteville beyond that point (called Crosser's Creek at that time); that he knows that John Woodside served a tour of ten months in a company of cavalry in South Carolina, but under what officer he does not now recollect; that John Woodside being a blacksmith by trade, made the sword which he wore whilst attached to the cavalry, and that this affiant made the scabbard for the said sword; that said Woodside served as a light- horseman under the command of Captain Robison in scouting parties during the time the British

army was in this region of Country in the Spring of the year 1781: That he recollects hearing soldiers of the revolution speak of John Woodside serving in South Carolina and of his being at Camden. whilst in service, he recollects two persons who related the above fact, to wit, Gideon Thompson and David Kearney, both of whom are now deceased: This affiant further states that John Woodside was universally reported to have been a soldier of the revolution during the war, and enjoyed that reputation up to the period of his death - he further states that the comrades of said Woodside in the war are now all deceased so far as he has any knowledge of the fact - That those who lived in this region of country are dead John Lockhart
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written; and I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with John Lockhart and that he is a credible person W. F. Cowan
State of North Carolina. I J. F. Alexander Clerk Sudell County of the Court of pleas and Quarter Sessions, for the County of Sudell do hereby certify that W. F. Cowan is a magistrate as above and the signature purporting to be his is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office in Statesville this 20 th Sept 1852 J. F. Alexander Clerk

State of North Carolina, Bradley County
On this the 24 day of February one thousand eight hundred and fifty two, personally appeared before the subscriber an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County, John Coehran, who first being duly sworn according to law, on his oath makes the following state- ment: That he is now eighty eight years of age, That in the time of the revolutionary war he was well acquainted with John Woodside then a resident of the County of Cabarrus state aforesaid, & that his acquaintance with him continued until a short time preceding his death; That the said Woodside was a soldier in the war of the revolution, the greater part of the time during the war serving as a dragoon or light horseman: That he served a portion of the time under Captain Simmons: That he was in the battle of Ramsour's Mill, at that time under the command of Captain John Dickey, as an infantry soldier: That he was a three months tour to Fayetteville as fortman under the command of Colonel Joseph Dickson. That he was in service as a light horseman in the State of South Carolina during the time the British army was in that State, but under whose command this affiant has now forgot: That this affiant lived in less than a mile of said Woodside's residence in the time of the war, and knows that he was absent from home in the service more than two years during the war, serving as a horseman all the time except the two tours as fortman

above stated. Affiant further states that he is well acquainted with Sam Woodside of Cabarrus County, State of North Carolina, that she is the widow of the said John Woodside; that affiant was present at the marriage of the said John & Sam, which took place at the house of Robert Cochran in the County of Rowan & the marriage rites were solemnized by one — McCall, a presbyterian minister, in the month of October 1788 —
John Cochran
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date first above written: And I hereby certify, that John Cochran is a respectable citizen of the County aforesaid & is entitled to full credit; and further, that from the infirmities of age he can not go to a court of record to make this affidavit J L Blackwell J D
State of North Carolina
Iredell County } I J. F. Alexander, Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County of Iredell do hereby certify that J. L. Blackwell is a magistrate as above and the signature purporting to be his is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office at office this 27 February 1852
J. F. Alexander Clerk of Iredell County Court

I know John Bachman well. He is a man of high respectability. True faith. May be placed in any statement of his. J. P. Caldwell M.C.

State of North Carolina Cabarrus County } }
On this the 26 th day of March A.D. 1852, personally appeared before the subscriber, an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County, William Fleming, who being first duly sworn according to law, on his oath makes the following statement, that he is now sixty seven years of age, that when he was a boy he recollects to have heard that John Woodside was killed by the washing away of a saw-mill in Pendleton District South Carolina; that the widow of said John Woodside then removed to the County of Cabarrus, State aforesaid, and has lived in this neighbourhood about fifty years, living with this affiant for the last twenty nine years, and that the universally received opinion of all who knew said John Woodside is that he died as above stated sometime before the year 1800 - the said Woodside had two brothers living in this immediate neighbourhood, (now dead) whom this affiant has heard speak of the manner in which John Woodside was killed. Wm Fleming
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written. And I hereby certify that William Fleming is a respectable citizen of said County. J. P. Rumble J.P.

State of North Carolina Cabarrus County }
I, R. W. Poard Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid, do hereby certify, that Peter Rumble who attests the foregoing affidavit of William Fleming, is and was at the date of the same an acting Justice of the Pleas in and for said County duly commissioned and qualified, having authority to administer oaths, and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal, at office in the town of Concord, this the 30 th day of March A. D. 1852.
R. W. Poard CLK

J. Triplett Esq. Present

I think the identity satisfactorily made out in this case, particularly for that portion certified to have been performed in Ruthuford's Expedition -
= In respect to the payments, if you have any doubts, you might call for certificates as to whether they payments were made from from the Salisbury district = Claimant's husband evidently lived in Rowan, which is in Salisbury district. -
Rly.
To Mr. Triplett.

1 14.652
Jane Woodside Widow of John N C
J.E. Kerr July 26 1852 Same Aug 23 1852 Same Feb'y 10 1853
July 7 1838

Bounty Land Claim
Free
Hon. G. P. Waldo Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.

✓ 18205
5
Nov 1919

Ph. Oct 2 nd Nov 18, N.C. Baptist

9529 South Carolina Fayetteville Jane Woodside widow of John who was a priv & commr in the Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 50 Dollars or Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 18 th day of May/54 and sent to J. A. Kerr Esq Care Hon B. Craig House of Reps
[Acts of March 3, 1843, and June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book A Vol. 2 Page 62

11. 663
North Carolina, Fayetteville Jane Woodside widow of John who died on the _____ of _____ in the State of N.C. who was a Private in the _____ commanded by Captain _____ of the _____ commanded by _____ in the Revolution for 13 mos 24 days Pirate 34 " Drummer
Inscribed on the Roll of Fayetteville at the rate of 57 Dollars 01 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 18th day of May 1834 and sent to J. S. Kerr Esq. Care Hon B. Craige Treasurer to the 4th of House of Reps Semi-annual allowance ending
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act July 7, 1838. }
L. B. Weighman Clerk. Recorded by _____ Vol. 1. Page 303 Book _____

State of North Carolina
Wabunn County 3 th
On this the 7 day of June A. D. 1852, personally appeared before me an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County, Jane Woodside who being first duly sworn according to law, on her oath makes the following statement to be taken as part of a declaration heretofore made by her under the act of Congress passed July 7 th 1838, which declaration is dated March 26 th 1852, and now on file in the Pension office; that she was married to John Woodside in the County of Rowan, at the residence of Robert Lockhart, in the month of October 1781, and that her name before her said marriage was Jane Lockhart, that she has not married since the death of her said husband.
Mr Jane W Woodside mark
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written
Thos. A. Hill J.P.
Jane Woodside and Thomas A. Hill are both respectable persons, any statement they may make may be relied upon J. P. Caldwell M. C.

State of North Carolina Lebanon County }
I, R. W. Foard clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid, certify, that Thomas A. Stiles, whose official signature appears to the within affidavit of John Woodside, is and was at the date of the same, an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified, and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine. In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal this 19 th day of June 1852
R. W. Foard Clk

State of North Carolina Cabarrus County, §
On this the 21 st day of January
1837, personally appeared before me, an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for the County aforesaid, Robert Carrigan Esq., who being first duly sworn according to law, maketh oath, that he is now in his sixty fourth year; that he is a son of William Carrigan Deceased, late of Cabarrus County, who was a soldier of the revolution and a prisoner up to the period of his death; that he recollects to have heard his father, William Carrigan, speak frequently of the services of John Woodside (the husband of Jane) in the war: saying that Woodside was in camp with him and some part of the time they were in the same mess - that he Woodside made a tour under the cognomen of Guy Rutherford in the same Company with him, at Fayetteville (then called Crosser's Creek) against the Tories: that they made a nine months tour together to South Carolina, his father Carrigan being a wagoner, & Woodside being a soldier: that John Woodside was in the battle of Ramsour's Mill under the command of Captain Dickey: that he has heard his father say that John Woodside was attached to the cavalry the greater portion of the time that he served in the war, and that he was a gallant soldier. Affiant further states that he has frequently heard Archibald Woodside, who was a brother of John, and a prisoner, speak of the revolutionary services of John stating substantially the same set forth above as related by his father W m Carrigan
Robert Carrigan

Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written, and acknowledged before signing; And I hereby certify that Robert Lanigan is well known to me, and is a highly credible person.
R. C. Cooke J. P. Seal
State of North Carolina Cabarrus County } I, J. M. Scott, Clerk of the
Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid, certify that R. C. Cooke Esquire, is an acting Justice of the Pleas in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified, authorized to ad- minister oaths for general purposes, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his, is genuine. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal this the 31 st day of January, 1834 - J. M. Scott Clerk

State of North Carolina Cabarrus County
On this the 18 th day of April, 1834, personally appeared before me, an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, James Sloan, who being duly sworn according to law, maketh oath, that he is 57 years of age, that he was raised & still resides within a few miles of where John Woodside lived previous to his removal from this State; that he has heard many persons recognized as soldiers of the revolution speak of the services of John Woodside in the revolutionary war, amongst whom he will recollect to have heard Archibald Woodside, who was a pursuer, and Adam Brannon speak on this subject, stating that John Woodside served a considerable portion of the time during the revolution and was a gallant soldier; that he served in the infantry under Captain John Dickey, and served afterwards served as trooper in a regiment of cavalry; that affiant recollects to have heard three persons, all of whom are now dead, speak of the fact of John Woodside having made himself the son of John Woodside whilst attached to the cavalry; affiant further states that he is well acquainted with Jane Woodside the widow of John, that she is a woman of highly respectable character and of unquestionable veracity. Jas. Sloan
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written; And I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with James Sloan and that he is a credible person. Thos. N. Hill J.P.

State of North Carolina, Cabarrus County, {
I, J. W. Scott, Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid, certify that Thomas A. Still Arg., is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County authorized by law to administer oaths for general purposes, duly commissioned and qualified and that the signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official seal at office in Concord, this the 19 th day of April, 1834. J. W. Scott, Clerk.

State of North Carolina, Indall County 5
On this the 21 st day of September, one thousand eight hundred and fifty three, personally appeared before me an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, John Cochran, who being first duly sworn according to law, maketh oath, that he is now 88 89 years of age; that he lived in the immediate neighborhood of John Woodside in the time of the revolutionary war; that he was well ac- quainted with Captain Dickson, who likewise lived in the same neighborhood, and with Captain Dickey, and he is well convinced that the John Woodside whose name appears on the books of the Comptroller's office of North Carolina, as shown by a certificate furnished from said office, could have been none other than the John Woodside, the husband of Jane Woodside, who is now an applicant for a pension; that no other John Woodside could have served in the revolutionary war under either of the above named officers with- out the fact being known to this affiant.
John Cochran
Sworn to and subscribed before me the date above written. And I hereby certify that John Cochran is a man of good character and entitled to credit on oath.
W. H. Covington

State of North Carolina Iredell County 3d I. Miles J. Pruland Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions, for the County aforesaid do hereby certify that William J. Cowan whose name is subscribed to the within Affidavit is and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid duly commissioned and qualified and the signature purporting to be his is genuine In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office at Officer's Station This 24 day of September A.D. 1853 M. J. Pruland Clerk of Iredell County Court