Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 26,613, Christopher Vaile, Navy New York

SERVICE
NUMBER _____
navy new york
Vaile, Christopher H. 26,613 Molly Ann
CONTENTS

9908 Connecticut
Christopher Faile
of New London in the State of Conn. who was a Private in the Comp. commanded by Captain Gilbert of the Regt. commanded by Col. Livingston in the New York line for 19 months. Private } $63.33 " " Seaman } 16. $79.33
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut at the rate of 79 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 24 day of June 1833 and due to her a life annuity.
Arrears to the 4th of March $158.66 Semi-annual allowance ending 4 Sep '33 39.66 $198.32
Revolutionary Claim, for June 7, 1832. A. C. Miles Clerk, Vol. 3. Page 14.
Recorded by Book E

Christopher Veitch 23795
Recd of Money paid y e Company at Easthampton
Recd of Money paid y e Company at Easthampton
See Roll 1775 - With disbursements A pay roll of Capt - Hubbards Company - the Clinton Regiment -

State of Connecticut.
New London County ss. City of Norwich ss.
On this 14 th day of July A D 1832 personally appeared in open court, before the city court now in session in the city of Norwich in said county, being a court of record having jurisdiction to any amount, Christopher Boil a resident of said city in said county aged twenty four years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of conscription June 7, 1832 - That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as is herein stated. On or about the first day of July A D 1775, he then being a resident of say harbor Suffolk County, State of New York, and of the age of seventeen years, & five feet nine inches high, he enlisted into the Continental Army for six months, under the command of Capt. John Hubbard, Lieut. John Davis & Lieut. William Havens. and served the whole of said six months - A part of the time he was stationed at Montague on the East end of Long Island from thence he was ordered to the north & stationed at Haverroga, where Chamblee & St John were captured that his said company took charge of & guarded a num-

13 m be of the prisoners, to the northwest part of Connecticut where they were left. Our time of enlistment having expired, we returned home. - Said Boil immediately about the first of March 1776, enlisted again into the continental army, in the company under Captain John Davis & Lieut. William Havens, and was stationed at Montague until the British landed on Long Island Said company then left Long Island and was or- dered up the north river and stationed at Fort Con- stitution & Fort Montgomery. Henry B. Livingston was our Colonel. Some time this season our Captain Lieutenant, & part of the company enlisted for three years or during the war. Said Boil and some others were put into Captain Daniel Griffiths com- pany and stationed at Fort Montgomery, until the ex- piration of thirteen months from the time of said last enlistment. He was in the service during all the time. At the end of thirteen months we were regularly discharged, being then under the command of General Clinton. I then returned to Saybrook Connecticut. This was in 1777. In the spring of that year I entered service on board the continen- tal schooner Mifflin Capt John Kerr, and cruised in Long Island Sound. During this time I volunteered to cross to Long Island with other troops. We passed over in the night. I took a company of refugees, fifty nine

300 in number commanded by Capt. Jacob Smiths and re- turned to New London. I was on board at this time three months . I then left & entered on board the con- tinental frigate Warren John Hopkins Commander, & was on board six months , at the expiration of which I was discharged. - The whole time which I was then in the continental army & navy was two years and three months -
In 1778 I was engaged in two tours of one month each in the militia and marched to the relief of Danbury when it was burnt. Then I returned. Jan. 1. 1779. I entered on board an armed vessel bound on a cruise to the West Indies. We sailed Jan. 6. 1779 and on cruising to windward off Barbadoes on the 11. Jan'y we captured a schooner bound to Halifax. I was sent on board to carry her to the United States. On the 12 th Feb'y I was taken by a British ship and carried into Antigua & put into close confinement where I remained thirteen days eleven months, a prisoner. I was then taken from prison & put on board a British man of War 74 guns, called the "Sus-" sex. Admiral Rodney commanding the fleet. We were kept as prisoners on board, and in April we were in three separate engagements with the French fleet of 22 sail of the line commanded by Admiral Gaillard and Lamotte Piquet. After these actions I petitioned Admiral Rod- ney to be sent prisoner to England. He granted my request

and I was put on board the Man of War Action 44 guns, and on our passage to England I was put on board a transport to be returned back. And our arrival in England we put into the Falmouth where I made my escape and went on board a British ship and sailed the next day on board a British ship for Lisbon. When I arrived, when I had been there a few days, I got on shore and applied to the French con- sul for advice. He kept me three days at his house. I furnished me with passports, both Portuguese & Spanish. I went to Cadiz in Spain where I arrived Feb. 24. 1781. I applied to Richard Harrison Esq. who was agent or con- sul for the United States for assistance. He furnished me with a boarding house where I remained till I got a passage to the United States in an armed ship belonging to Salem (Mass). We had an engagement off Madeira with a British cutter 16 or 18 guns, we beat her off. I arrived in Salem. From thence I travelled to New London Connecticut making upwards of two years absence. I staid at New London but two days, and May 5. 1781. I entered on board the Brig Sean of 16 guns, Dan. Seefelda commander, out twenty five days & returned. June 2 d I entered on board the Sloop Joy, William Hearn commander , of 16 guns. We took two English Quakers called the Fox & St. Patrick & seventy men & carried them into New London.

On the 6 th of Sept. the British burnt Newbern and a part of our vessel was destroyed. On the 8 th of Sept. I entered again on board the Dean. Capt. Scovel and after cruising some time we were captured by two British frigates and carried into New York and put on board the Jersey Prison ships. We staid there 30 days, lost 64 men by the fever, & I was exchanged. * I returned to Newbern very sick with the fever. On my recovery I entered again on board the ship Randolph Capt. Forbush Commander, on the 14 th March 1782. We took several prizes & carried them into Newbern & returned in July. I then went * on board the Gally John. Goethen Adam com- mander, we took one prize & sent her to Newbern & in the August following I left the service.
My first enlistment in 1775, was under the following circumstances. Paul Paine had enlisted, and be- ing unable to go, I enlisted & took his place. I always answered to my own name, but whether Paine's name was on the roll or mine I do not know. -
The dates of my services at sea, I take from a journal which I kept at the time & know it to be correct.
I have no papers or documents relating to my ser-

vice in the army, and there is no person living within my knowledge who knows of my service. Giles L'Hommiedieu lives in Sag Harbor where I enlisted & knows that I went into the army, but he was then a small boy. I never had any papers relating to my discharge to my recollection. I name the follow- ing gentlemen to whom I am known in my present neighborhood, & to whom I refer for my cha- racter. Hon James Lannan formerly Senator in Con- gress. Hon. Colvin Goodwin formerly member of Con- gress, since a judge of the Supreme Court of the State. George Hill Esq an Alderman of the City of Norwich Hon. Gaby W. Huntington, Hon. Roger Barber, members of the present Congress. - Gaby Huntington Esq Pres- ident of the Norwich Bank, Rev. Seth B Paddock Rector of Christ Church Norwich.
He resides at Sag Harbor at the time he entered the army after the war lived in Sothwick one year - then came to New London & had a short time then came to Nor- wich where I have lived ever since - except fourteen years, during which I was in Richmond Virginia - from which place I came June 1823 to Norwich where I have ever since lived.
He hereby relinquishes all claim whatever to a pension or annuity, except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state
sworn to & subscribed in open court on the day & year first above written
Attest - Alex Lathrop Clerk
Christopher Vail

We S th B. Paddock a clergyman residing in the city of Norwich and Asa Root the Esq s residing in the same place hereby certify that we are acquainted with Christopher Vail who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that we believe him to be twenty four years of age that he is reputed and be- lieved in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution and that we concur in that opinion. S th B. Paddock Rector of Christ Church Norwich sworn to & subscribed in open court on the day & year aforesaid } Attest - Asa Root the Esq s Clerk
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant, was a revolutionary soldier and served as he states. And the court further cer- tifies that it appears that who has read the above certificate S th B. Paddock, a clergyman in good standing resident in said city of Norwich - & that said Asa Root Esq s . who has also signed the same, is a credible person and that their statement is entitled to credit. - The court also find that it appears that said Vail is a person of good standing, fair character & that his statements

are entitled to full credit.
Attest Alex Lathrop Clerk
I Stephen Lathrop, clerk of the city court of the city of Norwich do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of said court in the matter of the application of Christopher Rohl for a pension - And I certify that Giles L. Howdine was appeared personally in open court & made oath to the deposition by him subscribed and herunto appended as a part of the proceedings of said court.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of office this 14 th day of July A.D. 1932
Alex Lathrop Clerk

I give L. Hommedie of Norwich age eighty six years on oath declare that I have in Sag Harbor on Long Island in the State of New York at the com- mencement of the revolutionary war. David Lister Christopher Lister who now resides in Norwich here in my father's family. I was then young and I well remember that said Lister was after the commencement of the war, enlisted into the army and went into the service of the United States. My father soon after this removed to Sag Harbor, after said Lister had been absent some time in the army as I understood, he came back to my father's house in Sag Harbor. Soon after he again went into the army as I understood at the time I know very likely him. When he was not in the army he was at our house I know that said Lister was absent most of the time during the war, and it was

always understood by me & by my father's family that he was in the service most of the time & that he was a prisoner some part of the time. I now know Capt. Hill very well. He is a very respectable man, and it is generally understood in the neighborhood that since he was in the Army. The Christopher Hill who now lives in Norwalk and who is now applying for a pension is the same Christopher Hill who lived in my father's family at the commencement of the revolution war.
Giles L'Hommedieu
Sworn in open court. Norwalk City July 14. 1832. attest Alex Lathrop Clerk
New London County ss. Norwalk City Court July 14. 1832. Personally appeared before me and now in person the above named Giles L'Hommedieu who in court read the above apt. & made oath to the truth of the same - and said court certifies that said L'Hommedieu is a credible witness & his statement is entitled to full credit.
attest Alex Lathrop Clerk

N o 549 Christopher Boile Application for a pension
Q o
2 nd July 1802

I Samuel L. Homedien of Sag Harbor in the the County of Suffolk and State of New York aged Eighty eight years and upwards do testify and say that I was acquainted with Christopher Tait the applicant and signer of the foregoing Declaration previous to the Revolutionary War and also knowing to the said Christopher Tait entering the service of the United States at Sag Harbor aforesaid as a private in a Company commanded by Capt. John Hulbert, Col. James Clinton's Regiment being the 3rd Company attached to the 3rd Regiment in the Continental Service and that the said Christopher Tait did so enter the service as above stated with the first troops that was raised on Long Island in the revolutionary war which was in the year 1775. the 1st day of July and do verily believe that he continued to serve in said Company for the term of six months and also verily believes that he served in Capt. John Davies company for the term of 13 months after in Col. Henry Livingston's Regiment and also verily believes that he served on Board the Schooner Nisbet in the United States service Capt. John Herr Commander for the term of 3 months and from the said Schooner entered on board the Frigate Warren at Boston John Hope kind Commander and there served five months.
Samuel L. Homedien
Before me, the undersigned authority, personally appeared the above named Samuel L. Homedien and made oath to the truth of the facts stated in the above deposition by him subscribed and I certify that the above deponent is a credible witness and his statements are entitled to credit.  J. B. Havens Justice Peace  July 14th Decr 1832

State of New York, Suffolk 3 County Clerks Office
I Joseph R Huntington Clerk of the Court of Common pleas in and for said County of Suffolk Do Certify that Henry B Warren Esquire before whom the foregoing Deposition of Samuel L Hommedieu was taken is a Justice of the Peace for said County and duly authorized by Law to act as such And I do further Certify that I am acquainted with the handwriting of the said Justice and believe the signature of H B Warren to be the proper handwriting of the said Justice In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Seal of office this 22 nd day of December In the year 1832
Joseph R Huntington Clk

State of Connecticut
County of Middlesex ss. City of Norwich ss.
On this day of July 1833 personally appeared in open court, before the city court now in session in the city of Norwich in said county being a court of record, Christopher Dole (who is the same Christopher Dole who on the 14 th day of July 1832, before said court made and subscribed the declaration to which this is appendant) and being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following additional declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7. 1832.
Since my former declaration, I have found two witnesses, W m Gilson & Edward Howell, whose depositions I have obtained and which are herunto annexed. Which prove the service stated by me in 1825. a period of six months. As further proof of this service I state that I re-

cently visited South Harbor and among some old papers of Capt. Hurlbut, in the possession of Sam. L. Hommerson I found the pay roll of our company by which it appears that on the 15 th of August 1875 I received four dollars of Capt. Hurlbut. and my signature thereto is in my own hand writing (No. 25). I annex the same hereunto.
I also found among said papers the muster roll of said company, on which is the name of Paul Pain in whose place I enlisted and served as stated in my former declaration and the same is herunto annexed. - The muster roll containing the name of Paul Pain . The pay roll containing a receipt in my name the positive proof produced by the two dispositions establishes my claim for the first 6 months .
In proof of my service for the term of thirteen months - from March 1876, as stated in my former declaration. I have also the disposition of John Howell. which proves that I was with him nine months and that he left me in the army. I enlist in Captain

buffings company from over the time of our en- listment to the end of our thirteen months .
I have been to Long Island, where I then lived and have taken the deposition of S. B. H. H. medier, which is now added to my own for- mer declaration. I have made the most dis- such  such for other testimony, but after the most faithful enquiry I can find no other person living who knows anything of my service.
I can only repeat the statements in my former declaration, except that on reflection I find I was mistaken as to the time of the happening of an event there stated. - After we left Long Island in the year 1776, we were a time at New Haven, and while there I went with others to Long Island & took 59 refugees in the night. - In my former statement when I stated this event to have been after I went on board the Sch. Miffin , I find on reflection, and on looking at my journal kept there, I was mistaken. It occurred as I have now stated. - When we went upon the

Having Capt Jacob Smith commanded there, Tories who were taken to New We had thirteen of the Tories and lost one man. the next day we returned. - We then were ordered up the north river and stationed at Fort Constitution. Some time after this our Captain Hoppus & a part of the men enlisted for three years and some during the war - our company being broken up a part were sent to Fort Montgomery and I with them. I served my time out in Captain Guffey's company, and there in some time after our time had expired. I received thirty dollars, for the time I was with Capt. Guffey. Gen: Clinton had command of the Fort.
I was born at Southold (L.I.) on the 7 th day of May 1758
I have no record of my age, except a record in a family Bible which corresponds with the above. My answers to the other questions proposed by the Rev. Sept. are found in my former declaration.
Christopher Vail
attest. Alex Lathrop Clerk

And the said court finds that the said Christopher Lusk who has now in court on oath made and subscribed the above declaration, is the same Christopher Lusk who on the 14 th day of July 1832, made & subscribed the original declaration to which this is appendage. And said court finds that William Gilston & Edward Howell whose depositions are herewith appended are each of them credible witnesses and their statements are entitled to credit. And also that the within named Stephen Buckley is judge of Probate for the District of East Haddam, & that the within in all respects purporting to be his is genuine.
Attest. Alex Lathrop Clerk
I Alexander Lathrop Clerk of the City Court of the City of Norwich do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of said court, in the matter of an additional declaration of Christopher Lusk for a pension. And I certify that the proceedings aforesaid have been appended to said former declaration of said Lusk by me.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office this 4 th day of March A.D. 1833.
Attest Alex Lathrop Clerk

recollects that Christopher Dail then of said South Hampton, now of Norwich in Connecticut was a member of Captain Davis's Company, enlisted about the same time, and served with Deponent and when the Deponent left the Company, as he thinks said Dail continued in the service. The Deponent thinks he may have been discharged a few days before the time of his enlistment expired. He had a written discharge which accompanies his application for a pension now at Washington from which the time of his discharge will appear. Edward Howell
State of Connecticut Middlesex County
ss Probate District of East Haddam Feby. 2 d A.D. 1833
On the 25 th day of January A.D. 1833 personally appeared before the subscribed Judge of the Court of Probate for the District of East Haddam William G. Phelps who is a credible person and on the 30 th of said Jan'y also appeared in person before the subscribed Judge aforesaid Edward Howell who is also a credible person and who have subscribed the foregoing deposition and affidavit  respectively being duly sworn, made oath according to law to the truth of the same
Eliphaleth A. Bulkeley Judge of said Court
Middlesex County ss East Haddam Feby. 2 d A.D. 1833 I Matthew E. Warner clerk of the Court of Probate for the District of East Haddam hereby certify that Eliphaleth A. Bulkeley is Judge of the Court of Probate for the District of East Haddam and that the immediate above this certificate written is his proper handwriting and signature. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Court the day and year above said. Matthew E. Warner, Clerk

Edward Howell of East Haddam in Middlesex County Connecticut aged seventy seven years deposes and says that as early as the 5 th day of July 1775 he then residing in the Town of South Hampton County of Suffolk and State of New York enlisted enlisted into a Company of the New York State line (of which company John Hulbert was captain and John Davis and William Havens lieutenants) for the term of six months - that the company proceeded from Long Island to New York City - from thence to Ticonderoga, afterwards returned to Fort Constitution on the North River and were, dismissed in the month of January 1776, having staid over the time of our enlistment about two weeks (other troops not coming in to garrison the Fort) The Deponent well recollects that Christopher Bail then of said South Hampton, now of Norwich in Connecticut was a member of the same company with himself under Captain Hulbert in the Regiment of Colonel James Clinton, enlisted near the same day with Deponent - served for the same period and at the same time dismissed
The Deponent further says that in the month of March in the first part of the month in the year 1776, he then residing at South Hampton aforesaid enlisted into the service of the United States, in a Company commanded by Capt John Davis for the term of nine months - The company was stationed at Montauk until the Island was given up - were sometime employed in removing the inhabitants of the Island and their effects to the Connecticut shore, afterwards the Company proceeded to New York, brought some Tories off from Long Island and then moved to the vicinity of the North River where the Deponent was dismissed - The Deponent well

William Gelston of East Haddam in Middlesex County Connecticut now seventy six years of age deposes and says that as early as the 3rd day of July A.D. 1775 he then residing at Southampton Suffolk County on Long Island in the State of New York enlisted into a company of State troops (of which com- pany John Hulbert was Captain and John Davis and William Havens Lieutenants) for the term of six months, that the company marched from Long Island to New York City, from thence to the vicinity of Lake Champlain, afterwards returned to Fort Constitution on the North River, where in the month of January 1776 the company was dismissed and on the 15th day of the month as Deponent thinks he having served about two weeks longer than the time of his enlistment - The deponent well recol- -ects that Christopher Vail then of said South- -hampton on Long Island, now of Norwich in Connecticut was a member of the same company with himself - commanded by Capt. Hulbert thinks he enlisted about the same time with himself and that he was discharged about the same time with Deponent at Fort Constitution
William Gelston

East Hampton Aug t 13 th 1775 We whose names are hereunto Affix'd Have rec d of Col t John Mullett the Sum of Four Dollars Each, it Being in part of our Month's pay in the Continental Service being the 3 d Company in the Third Regiment commanded by Col. Tracy
  1 James Sayre James Field 26   2 Jonathan Cook Henry Hopping 27   3 John Gould John Sperry 28   4 Ebenezer Jennings Edward Howel 29   5 Benjamin D. Tracy Samuel Brown 30   6 Abraham Lopez William Galston 31   7 George Case Robert Moore 32   8 Philip Gilderleeve Jacob Miller 33   9 Cornelius Basset James Tracy 34   10 John Hudson his mark Josiah Osborn 35   11 Daniel Hopping his mark Jonathan Dimp 36   12 Abraham Sherrell Jeremiah Gardiner 37   13 David Smith Cornelius Osborn 38   14 Jeremiah Sherrell Burnet Cook 39   15 William Rogers his mark Benjamin Sand 40   16 Stephen Ludlow William Miller 41   17 William Godsmith David Lopez 42   18 Levi Miller his mark Thomas Baker 43   19 Jacob Hicks Lewis Chatfield 44   20 Abraham Lek his mark Thomas Jones 45   21 Samuel his mark Ranger Joseph Hoppeng 46   22 Jeremiah Bennet his mark   23 John Gann his mark   24 Abraham Lopez   25 Christopher Vaill 

 47 Elisha Talmadge  48 George Ludlam John How  49 Jeremiah Bower Silvanus Grafting  50 Elias Hedges  51 Thos. his Bumbabow  52 Matthew Davis  53 Nathan Miller  54 David Baker  55 Nathan Hame  56 Isaac Barford  57 Zebulon Lemp  58 Stephen Howell  59 Joseph Bailey  60 Isaac Smith  61 Robert Sheffield  62 Abraham Lagg  63 Daniel Foster  64 William Brewster  65 Joshua Jayne  66 Benj  Chappel  67 Matthew Halsey jun.  68 John Pierson  69 Zebulon Cooper 

Rept
Lett to J. W. Haughton June 28, 1857
2088 Connecticut Molly Ann Taile widow of Christopher Taile
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private teaman
scribed on the Roll at the rate of 67 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 15 day of Sept. 1848. and sent to
John W. Haughton Norwich ct
rded on Roll of Pensioners under act July 2, 1848, Page 362 Vol. 1,

No Molly Ann Vail Maw of Christopher Vow a ct 7 July 1838 Married 1782 husb. died 27 May 1848 Rejected
Adm d by Andrew Vail Commencement
Rejected by Claim - a ct 1 July 1838

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of July 7 th 1838. entitled an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows — State of Connecticut New London County ss: on this 4 th day of September A D 1845. Personally appeared before the Court of Probate for the district of Norwich in said County and State Mrs Molly Ann Vail a resident of Norwich in the said County of New London aged seventy 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 provisions of the act of Congress passed July 7 th 1838 entitled an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows — that she is widow of Christopher Vail dec d who was a pensioner of the United States at the time of his death. But as she does not know the length of time he served precisely she would respectfully refer the war department to his declaration and documents accompanying the same on file in war office and the certificate returned to said office. For proof of said service she further declares that she was married to the said Christopher Vail on the 10 th day of November in the year seventeen hundred and eighty two. & that her husband the aforesaid Christopher Vail died on the twenty seventh day of May Eighteen hundred and forty five, that she was married to him prior to his leaving the service and the marriage took place previous to the first day of January, seventeen hundred and ninety four in at the time above stated — Sworn and subscribed on the day and year above written before me, Molly Ann Vail
State of Connecticut. Probate Office.
District of Norwich. On this 4 th day of September in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty five, personally appeared the above named Molly Ann Vail, and subscribed the foregoing declaration, and made oath that the same and the facts therein contained & set forth are true
Before me Hoyle Perkins . Judge of Probate District of Norwich.

William F. Morgan of the Town of Norwich in New London County, and State of Connecticut, do certify that I have the custody of the records of Christ Church of said Town of Norwich, from which I make the following transcript
Christopher Vail, and Molly Ann Evert, both of Norwich, were married on the evening of the tenth of Nov r one thousand, seven hundred and eighty two. by me - John Tyler In presence of Israel Evert, and wife Charles Cooten, and Lucy his wife Edward Bourdette and wife and of Mrs Tyler
I certify that it is a true copy of the record with the exception of the date, which is expressed on the record in fair, legible figures, as follows 10 th of Nov r 1782
William F. Morgan, above named, depose and say, that I am Rector of Christ Church in the Town, County and State aforesaid, and that the above is a true extract from the records of said Church, with the exception above named, as certified by me -
Subscribed and sworn too                      William F. Morgan before me this Eleventh Day of July A.D. 1845                      Rector of Christ Church Thomas Robinson Justice of the Peace

23195 Christopher Vail C.V.
Admitted 19 mo Pm at W. Dept. 4 " Seaman
127 14
Ava Child Norwich C.V.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjunctive notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. These points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: { ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.
A Statement, showing the Service of Christopher Vail as Adm
   Period when the service was rendered. Duration of the claimant's service. Rank of the claimant. Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served. Names and Rank of the General and Field officers. Battles in which the applicant was engaged. Country through which he marched. Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at the present period. Evidence by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     Enlisted July '75 Continental Comp y Reg t March '76 Continental 1 x pr Capt. Hubert Genl Clinton N.Y. Suffolk Co N.Y. 74 To ad y Witness as to his first term   Schooner Wyoming '77 3 x Sailor " Keen Adm. Lord Byron   Frigate Warren '78 5 x do " Hopkins   The whole time of Continental Service 2 yrs 3 mos 3 days.   May '79 On board the Wyoming repeated 2 Sailor   5 May '80 Prison 30 prisoner Capt. Gage   Wallack '82 Bally John 4 Sailor  
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS, Commissioner of Pensions.

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers," all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c. Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of Private Armed Vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
 1. The Regular Troops.  2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.  3. Persons employed in the Naval service.  4. Indian Spies. 
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.
DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of } ss. County of }
On this day of personally appeared (a) before A. B. a resident (b) of in the county of and State, Territory or District of aged (c) years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d), with and served in the (e) regiment of the line, under the following named officers:
[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marched. This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.]
He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
A. B.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I of the Court of do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this day of &c.
If, on examination of the proper record the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman, residing in the and C. D. residing in (the same) hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with , who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that A. B.
who has signed the preceding certificate, is a clergyman, resident in the and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, Clerk of the Court of do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this day of &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the transaction.
If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County, in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
 1. Where and in what year were you born?  2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?  3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?  4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?  5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.  6. { To a Soldier. } Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given and what has become of it? { To an Officer. } Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?  7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
The Court will see that he answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons -one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify, to the character and standing of other persons, giving such certificates.
The traditional evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades:—For _____ year _____ months, and _____ days, I served as a _____. For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension."
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months, is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
Proof of Service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
[k] The notes from [a] to [j] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[l] This traditional evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[m] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[n] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.
W. L. P. [unintelligible] and [unintelligible]

Record Division.
May 4, 1909.
Mr. I. E. Vail, The Hamilton, 14" and K Streets, Washington, D. C.
Sir:
In reply to your letter dated and received the 22" ultimo, you are advised that in the claim of Christopher Vail pensioned Vail o , Wid. File No. 20,613 Revolutionary War, it appears that he was born at Southold, Long Island, May 7, 1758, and while residing at Sag Harbor, Suffolk County, New York, enlisted July 1, 1775 and served six months as Private under Captain John Hulbert and Colonel James Clinton.
Enlisted March 1, 1776 and served thirteen months under Captains John Davis and Daniel Griffings, and Colonel Henry B. Livingston.
Served two months when Danbury was burned, officers not stated.
Spring of 1777 three months under Captain John Kerr on Continental schooner Mifflin.
Five months under Captain John Hopkins on Continental frigate Warren.
January 1, 1779, entered on board an armed vessel (name not stated) bound for the West Indies and January 11" captured a schooner. He was sent on board to carry her to the United States and on February 12" he was captured by a British ship, carried to Antigua and imprisoned eleven months

Wid. File No. 26,613,--2
and nine days, then put on board the Suffolk, a British Man of War, and was in three engagements with the French Fleet in April, year not stated. He was then sent a prisoner to England, made his escape at Falmouth and sailed for Lisbon on another British ship, then went to Cadiz, Spain, arriving there February 24, 1781, then sailed for the United States on an armed ship belonging to Salem, Massachusetts.
May 5, 1781 he entered on board the Brig Dean and served twenty five days. June 2, entered on board the sloop Joy, William Havens Commander; took the English privateers, Fox and Saint Patrick. Entered again on board the Dean, was captured by two British frigates, carried to New York and put on the Jersey prison ship; after thirty days was exchanged.
March 14, 1782 entered on board the sloop Randolph under Captain Fosdick, took several prizes and returned in July, then went on the galley John or Jehu, took one prize and in August following left the service.
He was allowed pension on an application executed July 24, 1832 while a resident of Norwich, New London County, Connecticut.
He married at Norwich, Connecticut, November 10, 1782 Molly Ann Everit and died at said place May 27, 1845. His widow was allowed pension on an application executed September 4, 1845, while living at Norwich Connecticut, aged seventy nine years. A child Hannah W. was the wife of Samuel Tyler. There is no further family data.
Except to the applicant or duly appointed and recognized attorney under a declaration filed in this Bureau, no information is furnished to any

Wid. File No. 26,618,--3
person as to whether a Bounty Land Warrant has or has not been issued on the service of any soldier or sailor.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

Ray WIDOW, &c.
File No. 26,613
Molly Ann Vail widow of Christopher Vail
Rich. Penn.
Act Feb. 2 nd 1848.
Index: Vol. M , Page 297
[Arrangement of 1870.]

March 29/95
Mil. Hist. to T. C. Vail. Topeka, Kans. 1864 1709 May 4 Hist Co L. B. Vail V.L.M.

1-69569 N161
May 28 1900.
Hon. Comm'r Genl. Land Office
Dear Sir,
A Land-Warrant for 80 acres of land, was issued to my Great Grandmother Mrs Mary Ann Vail, widow of Christopher Vail, who served all through the Revolutionary War, and this Land Warrant was transferred by her to my father, who lost it, or else it was stolen, about 1864 or 1865, having never been located by him or in any way disposed of. I am one of the heirs interested in the Warrant, and I wish to ascertain from the records of the Genl. Land Office, the

date of the issuance of the same if possible, and also, if there has ever been any land located or taken up on the Warrant of the same number, as it could only have been done by forgery, as my father never made any transfer of it to any one. The Warrant must have been issued somewhere between 1844 and 1852, as my Great Grandfather died on the former date, and his widow on the latter date. He rec'd a pension of $ 8. per month, as will be shown on the records of the Pension Office.
Will you be kind enough to have a search made between the dates above given, and give me the information I have requested, in order that steps may be taken for the issuance of a new Warrant in case the original has never been located.
Respy. Yours J. E. Vail

No Molly Ann Vail Maw of Christopher Vail act 7 July 1838
Rejected. husband died 1845
adm. act 17 June 1844
19 mo priv. $63.33
4 " Seaman 4.00
$67.33 from 27 May 1845
John H. Grace
Strick
6 br.

O. W. AND N. DIVISION.
Department of the Interior,
J.H.O. BUREAU OF PENSIONS. Searched by Simmons.
Claim No. _____
Certificate No. _____
Claimant Mary Ann (wife of)
Soldier Christopher Vail
Service Rev.
Additional service _____
No. Claim, New Records _____
No. Claim, Old Records _____
Remarks Off. file # 26613. No bounty land found. June 14, 1900.
C. M. Bryant Chief of Division.

No. 112.
Connecticut.
Molly Ann Vaile, widow of Christopher Vaile, who was a private Seaman, in the New-York line.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 67 Dollars 33 - Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1844. 27th: May, 1845. -
Certificate of Pension issued the 28 - day of Oct: 1845. and sent to John H. Grace Norwich, ct:
[Act of JUNE 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book D.
Vol. 1 - Page 99.
Report No. 4

Let to F. E. Hassler
Mary Jane Fails widow of Christopher Fails who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private Seaman due from 62.33 Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 79 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 24 day of July 1850 and sent to J. W. Houghton Bozrah Ct.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 9, 1848, Page 362 Vol. 1

Bureau of Pensions.
BOUNTY LAND
Christopher Vail " " Vale Revolutionary
Not on act 1835 - 16 0 " " 1830 - 8 0
: : Connecticut book : : Revolutionary "
MS C
Dec. 3 - 90 -

RECORD DIVISION.
Department of the Interior, BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Briefed by L. D. L.
Claim No. _____
Certificate No. _____
Claimant _____
Soldier Christopher Bail
Service Conn.
Additional Service Res. War
No. _____ claim, State records _____, 190_____
No claim, combination records _____, 190_____
REMARKS:
No claim except W. # 26613

AMERICAN PLAN STEAM HEAT, NEW ELEVATOR, PRIVATE BATHS
Apl. 22 1909
Hon. Comr. Pensions, Dear Sir,
Enclosed please find a letter which will explain itself, also, a statement from the Adjutant Genl. of Conn. If possible I would like to find out just what service my great grandfather performed in the Revolution, if it can be had from the records of your office. As he was also in a privateer as well as the Army, would the former service appear in your office records or those of the Navy Dept? My father was certain that in addition to the pension granted, there was also a land warrant issued to this soldier. I wish to ascertain if these are the

facts in this case, as I am very sure there was never any land located or taken up by this warrant in his name. Please return papers to me.
Yours very resp'y, J. E. Vail

AMERICAN PLAN STEAM HEAT, NEW ELEVATOR, PRIVATE BATHS
Apl. 20 1909
Adjt. Genl. } State of Conn. }
Dear Sir,
I write to inquire if I can get from the Revolutionary records of Conn, a history of the service of my great grandfather in that war. He was in the army as well as a privateer in the service of the govt. He was in a Conn. regiment, and I believe went over to Conn. from Long Island. I don't know as to his privateer service except that he was captured by the British I believe twice, and was a prisoner in Antigua, West Indies, and I believe also in the old "Jersey" prison ship. I would be very glad if I

could get his record in that war if possible from the archives of Conn. His name was Christopher Vail
Yours resp'y. J. E. Vail

Bowah July 4 th 1885
Sir
I send you the Certificate of Mrs Nelly Ann Vail, and the depositions testifying that she is now alive.
I am Sir yours Respectfully
Genl J. L. Escrow Commissary Pensins - Washington City
John W. Houghton

Boston May 6.
free
Hon. J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.
200

Bowah. May 6 th 1850
Sir
I am requested by Molly. Mrs Vail to enquire of you to why she does not draw the same amount of Pension. That her Husband. Christopher Vail
Also can Benjamin draw. Widow out of a Pension on account of her Husband being an Invalid Pension -
If you will do the favor to give the information you will confer a favor on the Poor and afflicted Widows
Honor J L Edwards Commissioner of Pensions Washington
I remain Sir in your very respectful John N. Harkness

Payment to be made at
Hartford by
Horace Goodwin
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of Connecticut
Payable on the 4th September and 4th March
Recorded in the Pension Office on the Roll of Pensioners under act February 2d, 1848, Page 362 Vol. 1 ,
W. Jenkins Clerk.

WAR DEPARTMENT.
WIDOW'S PENSION.
I certify that in conformity with the act of February 2d, 1848, Molly Ann Vaile widow of Christopher Vaile who was a Private Seaman in the revolutionary war, is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of Sixty Seven dollars and thirty three cents per annum, commencing on the 14th of March, 1848, and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.
Given at the War Office of the United States this 15th day of September one thousand eight hundred and forty eight.
Examined and Countersigned.
J. L. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions. By J. L. Ewa

Act 2 Feb 1848
Interest to f79:33 coming 4 March 1848, deducting former pay at f67:33
J. W. Haughton Bozrah, Ct.

I Samuel Tyler of the town of Norwich in the County of Connecticut State of Connecticut. I hereunto certify that the above copy is a true copy of the original now in the hands of the said Samuel Tyler. The said Samuel Tyler has been in the town of Norwich since his youth, and has been in the County of Connecticut since his youth, and has been in the town of Norwich since his youth, and has been in the County of Connecticut since his youth. I do further testify that Mrs. Mary Tyler is the mother of my present wife Samuel Tyler
Signed in presence of John W. Houghton
State of Connecticut } Suffolk County } To all to whom these presents shall come, Greeting: Be it known that on this third third day of July Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred fifty Personal affairs before John W. Doughton Esq. etc.

Notary Public within and for the State of Connecticut: and duly authorized by the Laws of said State, to administer oaths, and to take depositions. Samuel Tyler, Esq. being the same Samuel Tyler having signed the within deposition in my presence, and made solemn oath to the truth of the same, and I do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with him the said Samuel Tyler, and do say that his statements are entitled to credit, and I do hereby further certify that Mrs Molly Ann Dule is the alias, and she has executed her depositions on this thirteenth day of July A.D. 1850, which said depositions I now submit to the Pension Office. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed my official seal of office, the day and year first above written.
John W. Huntington Notary Public.

I Samuel Tyler of Norwich in the County of New London and State of Connecticut Aged Seventy One Years, do on oath testify upon and say that I was present when Christopher Vail a revolutionary pensioner died. He died in Norwich on the twenty Seventh day of May in the Year Eighteen Hundred and forty five.
Samuel Tyler
Sworn and subscribed to
before me this fifth day of Sept. A.D. 1845
Thomas Robinson
Judge of the Peace
I W m T. Tyler of Norwich in the County of New London and State of Connecticut aged thirty five years do on oath testify upon and say that I was at the funeral of Christopher Vail late of Norwich deceased that he died on the Twenty Seventh day of May, in the Year of Our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred and forty five
William T. Tyler
Sworn and subscribed to
before me this fifth day of September A.D. 1845
Thomas Robinson
Judge of the Peace

State of Connecticut New London County ss. November Sept 29 th 1845
I hereby certify that I am personally ac- quainted with Samuel Tyler and William S. Tyler and their signatures to the within depositions are genuine and that they are fully entitled to credit. Thomas Robinson Justice of the Peace
State of Connecticut ss New London County ss September 29 th 1845
I James Stedman, Clerk of the County Court within and for the County of New London aforesaid, do hereby certify that Thomas Robinson, whose name in his own proper hand writing is subscribed to the foregoing certificate is, and for more than one year last past has been, a Justice of the Peace within and for said County of New London, duly qualified & commissioned.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County Court the day & year by me above written James Stedman, Clerk

I Hannah West Taylor of the town of Farmington in the County of Franklin State of Connecticut. I here by certify that I am the Wife of the late James Taylor of the town of Farmington and the daughter of Mrs. Molly Ann Veile the Widow of Capt. Christopher Veile late of said town of Farmington and also that my Mother Mrs. Molly Ann Veile is now alive and a member of our family.
Signed in presence of John W. Huntington
Hannah West Taylor
State of Connecticut County of Franklin New Britain -
On this third day of July Anno Domini One Thousand Eight Hundred and fifty. Personally appeared John W. Huntington Esq. a Notary Public within and for the State of Connecticut and duly authorized by the laws of said State to administer oaths, and take depositions. Hannah West Taylor

and she the said Hannah West Syles having signed the within deposition, in my presence and made solemn oath to the truth of the same. and I do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with the said deponent and do say that her statement is entitled to credit. and I do hereby further certify that the said Mrs. Molly Ann Vail is alive and hereinafter the certificate on this the said third day of July A.D. 1850 which said Certificate I now forward to the Pension Office
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed my official seal of Office, the day and year last above written
John W Houghton Notary Public

16 T. C. VAIL, MANUFACTURER'S AND IMPORTER'S AGENT.
not I.
T
Topeka, Kansas, February 20. 1895
Hon. Wm. Lochren, Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:
Can you give me any information concerning the military record of my great-grandfather, Christopher Vail, in the Revolutionary War? As a member of the Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, as well as for family reasons I am anxious to know all I can of his career. Family traditions say that he was at the surrender of Ticonderoga - He was attached to two or three vessels during the war, and was taken prisoner two or three times, once a prisoner on the old prison-ship "Jersey", for thirty days, and once in Antigua Jail, in West Indies for thirteen months, and so as a soldier & sailor he went through the war. One of the vessels to which he belonged was the privateer "Randolph" - He was granted a pension while living at Norwich, Conn. I would be glad to know to what Reg't & Co. he belonged in the Army, & any other information which you can give will be highly appreciated -
Yours truly
T. C. Vail, Topeka, Kans.

O. W. & N. Division.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
F. S.
Bureau of Pensions,
M.E.C.
Washington, D. C., March 29, 1895.
Sir:-
In reply to your request for a statement of the military history of --- Christopher Vail --- a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.
DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE. CAPTAIN. COLONEL. See Supplemental statement.
Battles engaged in, See Supplemental statement.
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Sag Harbor, N.Y., & Saybrook, Conn.
Date of application for pension, July 14, 1862.
Residence at date of application, Norwich, Conn.
Age at date of application, Seventy-four years.
Remarks:
Very respectfully,
T. C. Vail, Esq.,
Topeka, Kans.
Commissioner.

Supplement.
(Christopher Vail)
From July, 1775, he served six months as a private in Capt. John Hurlburt's company, New York Militia; from March, 1776, thirteen months as a private under Captains John Davis and Daniel Griffin, Col. Hadington's New York regiment; Spring, 1777, three months as a seaman on the Schooner "Mifflin", and five months on the brig "Warren"; 1778 served two months as a private, and marched to the relief of New London -- officers names not stated; Jan. 1, 1779, enlisted on board a private armed vessel (name not stated), and served on a cruise to the West Indies; Jan. 11 a prize was taken and he was sent on board to take the same to New York; Feb. 12th was taken prisoner and carried to Antigua Island where he was detained eleven months and nine days; then put on board the British ship Suffolk, and was on board during the engagement with the French fleet in April; soon after sent to England as a prisoner at his own request; landed at Plymouth, made his escape, and went to Lisbon, thence to Cadiz, Spain, where he arrived Feb. 24, 1781; returned to the United States, landing at Salem, Mass., in May, 1781; went to New London, and on May 5, 1781, enlisted on board the brig "Dean" and served twenty-five days; June 2nd enlisted on the sloop "Joy" and was on board when New London was burned and a part of this sloop destroyed; Sept. 8th

enlisted on the "Deane" which was soon after captured; taken to New York as a prisoner and confined on the old prison ship "Jersey" for thirty days, when he was exchanged; March 14, 1782, enlisted on the sloop "Randolph" and served to July; then went on board the galley "Jehu" and remained until Aug., 1782, when he left the service.

J. C. G. (over) gad (4-007.) me 3 X B67569 MILITARY LAND-WARRANT DIVISION.
O. W. W. id. File #26613
Department of the Interior,
GENERAL LAND OFFICE,
Washington, D. C., May 23, 1900
Respectfully referred to the Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, and writer so advised.
Dail May 21/1900
Wants info respecting a Wth issued in favor of Mrs Mary Anne Vail, widow of Christopher Vail - Said warrant was lost or stolen.
Binger Hermann Commissioner

Molly Ann Beil
112-44
1
admitted
John M. Houghton Norwich

State of Connecticut (ss) New London County.
On this 17 th day of June Anno domini 1848 Personally appeared before the Undersigned a justice of the Peace within and for the County of New London Molly Ann Vail, a resident of the town of Norwich in said New London County, aged eighty. Two years, who being first duly sworn according to Law, cloth in her oath, make the following declarations in order to obtain the benefits of the Provision made by the act of Congress passed on the 2 nd February 1848; granting pensions to Widows of persons who served during the revolutionary war; that she is the Widow of Christopher Vail late of said town of Norwich (deceased) who was at private in the revolution; and that she claims a pension under the act of June 17 th 1844 amounting to Sixty Seven dollars thirty two cents.
And she further declares that she is still a Widow
Signature
Molly Ann Vail
James John H. Huntington Justice of the Peace.

State of Connecticut New London County June 17 th A D 1865 Personal appearance
Molly Ann Vail the within named who before the within certificate in my presence came made solemn oath. That that the declaration by her subscription is just and true according to her best knowledge, information and belief.
And I do hereby certify that I am personally conversant with the voice Molly Ann Vail. and do say that her statements are entitled to credit
Before me
John H. Doughty Justice of the Peace

filed 30 May 1837 J. E. Hassler attorney.

Molly Ann Vaile
Conner
1842
1878
1000 100 10 1

State of Connecticut County of New London
Be it known that before me
John W. Houghton a Notary Public
in and
for the aforesaid County and State, duly authorized to administer oaths, personally appeared Molly Ann Baile of Norwich aged 85 yrs and made oath in due form of law, that she is the identical person named in an original Pension Certificate hercunto annexed, No. 2088 and bearing date the 24 th day of July 1852, and signed by
Secretary of the Interior
D. C. Gooch for Secretary
and has resided there for the space of 40 years past—and that she makes
this declaration for the purpose of obtaining any arrears of pension that may be due her, under the laws of the United States; and that by these presents she does constitute and appoint F. E. HASSLER, of the City of Washington, her true and lawful attorney, irrevocably, with power of substitution for her and in her name, place and stead, to ask and receive of and from the United States, any bounty land, extra pay, pensions, money or moneys that now is or are due her on account of services rendered by her deceased husband; advances made, property destroyed or taken by the Government, or any claim arising from intercourse between the United States and any foreign nation, and the Indians, disbursements made, or expenses incurred by him while in the service of the United States, or on any other account whatsoever, and in her name to give receipts and other sufficient discharges for such bounty land, pensions, patents, claims, and money due as aforesaid, and to attend to and prosecute any and all business of whatsoever nature she may have with or before any of the Departments of the Government or Congress, or any legally established commission of the United States, and, generally, to do any and every other act or acts that she might or could do, were she personally present at the doing thereof, she hereby ratifying and confirming whatsoever her said attorney shall do in and about the premises, by virtue hereof.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF I have hereunto
set my hand and seal this 24 th
day of May
1851
Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of
Two witnesses.
Samuel Tylor J. B. Tylor, J. W. Houghton
Molly Ann Baile
State of Connecticut County of New London ss.
On this 24 th
day of May -
1851, personally appeared
Molly Ann Baile
before me, and acknowledged the fore-
going power of attorney to be her act and deed, for the purposes therein contained.
John W. Houghton Notary Public

Samuel Tyler
AND I HEREBY CERTIFY, that at the same time, personally appeared before me
and H W Tyler both male
known to me, to be two credible witnesses, and who being duly sworn, deposes and says, each for themselves that the above named Molly Ann Veile now present, is to their knowledge, the identical person named in the above deposition, and that the said affidavit is correct, as they verily believe; that they are acquainted with the said Molly Ann Veile and that they are, each, wholly disinterested.
Samuel Tyler
H W Tyler
Subscribed and sworn to before me, } upon the day and year first above written. }
John W Houghton
Notary Public
State of
County of
} ss :
I hereby certify, that
Esquire, before whom the foregoing affidavits were taken, and who has thereunto subscribed his name, was at the time of so doing, a _____ in and for the said County and State, duly commissioned and sworn, and authorized by law to take the same.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of _____ County Court, (a Court of Record,) this _____ day of _____ A. D. 185_____
Clerk.
*The Pension Certificate must be attached to this paper by a piece of tape passing through both, and the ends placed under the seal of the County Clerk, and if the evidence is taken before a Notary Public having a seal of office, the same, but then the County Clerk's certificate is not required.

2088 c1 48
He
Mr Boles
Honorable J. Heath Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.

Washington City D.C. May. 30th 1857
Honorable J. C. Heath Commissioner of Pensions
Sir Enclosed please find the application of Molly Ann. Vile for arrears of Pension due her under the joint Resolution of March 1857. She furthermore claims arrears of the difference of Pension between that of a captain and a private, & also that the sum then deducted from her credit on account of former payments may be duly returned, her is in justice she is entitled to it,
Respectfully
P. E. Hasker Attorney,

Oct. 1, 1845
Amended doc.
Andy Am Bail. D.C.
PAID
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of pensions
Washington

Norwich 29. Sept. 1845
J. L. Edwards Esq, Sir
Inclosed are returned the pension papers of Mrs. Molly Ann Vail, with the required certificate added.
Respectfully Yours
John H. Grace