Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 22,636, Elisha Williams, R.I.

SERVICE
NUMBER
R.I. _____
Williams Elisha Prudence _____
N. 22,636 B.L.Wt. 26075-160-55
CONTENTS
_____
_____

Reported
901. Rhode Island
Rudence Williams widow of Elisha Williams R.I. who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Sergeant,
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 40 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 27. day of July 1848 and sent to
Franklin Greene Providence R.I.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 29 Vol. 3,
Reg 3 rd m th 55 - no 7659

S. B. Powell, May 26/55.  Ref. Feb. 48 Page 232  John Brown, Nov. 27/55 " " " " "
Vol 1002 page 19.
No. 659. (55) Mar 21/55. Prudence Williams (wid) Elisha Williams (Sergt) Cap _____ of the Col. _____ Revolution
Ad: 16 Oct May 15/56 No. 26 Ref. Feb. 48 Page 901 Boston
Abner Powell Esq. Providence R.I.

State of Rhode Island, &c.
County of Providence
On this 17 day of March A. D. One Thousand Eight Hundred and Fifty-five, personally appeared before me, Oliver H. S. Thresher a Justice of the Peace within and for the County aforesaid, Prudence Williams aged 96 years, now resident in the Town of Cranston in said County, who being duly sworn according to law, declares and says she is the widow of Elisha Williams who was a Sergeant  Private in Capt. don't recollect company, and in a Regiment commanded by Col. don't recollect in the war of the Revolution, and that her said husband was in actual service more than Eight months in said war, and was honorably discharged.
And she further declares that she was married to said Elisha Williams on the  day of December A. D. 1779 by Samuel Wilson and that her name before marriage was Prudence Hathanson and that her said husband died on the 17 day of May A. D. 1831 and that she is now a widow.
And she further declares that she is now a Pensioner of the United States at the rate of $ 40 per annum; which pension was granted her on account of her said husband's services in said war; which pension is payable at the Agency for paying pensions in the City of Providence. And she further declares that when she made a declaration to obtain her said pension she produced satisfactory evidence of her said marriage to her said husband and of his death, to which declaration and the evidence therewith filed, she now refers for proof of her said marriage, of her said husband's death, and her claim to Bounty Land under the Act of Congress of March 3d, 1855, and she makes this declaration for that purpose. She further declares that she has never made any application for Bounty Land before the present.
Duty Colins Israel H. Potter
Prudence X Williams mark
We Israel H. Potter and Duty Colins residents of Cranston in the State of Rhode Island upon our Oath declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Prudence Williams 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. Duty Colins Israel H. Potter
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on 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
Oliver H P Thurlow Justice of the Peace
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations —
Secretary's Office, Providence
March 19 - 1855 -
I William R Watson, Secretary of said State, Keeper of the Records and Seal thereof; do hereby Certify, that Oliver H P Thurlow, above named is a Justice of the Peace for the town of Cranston in said State, duly elected, qualified and empowered to act as such, and as such is by law authorized to take Depo- sitions and the acknowledgment of Deeds, and other instruments, and to take administrative all necessary oaths; and that his signature to the above certificate is genuine in his proper handwriting.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said State at Providence the day and year aforesaid —
Wm R Watson Secretary of said State

Prudence Williams now residing in Cranston County of Providence widow of Elisha Williams maketh this further declaration in order to obtain a pension. She declares & says she was married to the said Elisha in the month of December 1779 but the exact day of the month she does not remember. Nor has she any record of it or of the birth of her children. And she further declares & says she well remembers that not a great while after her marriage her said husband was drafted as a soldier & went away & left her, she has a distinct recollection of it from the circumstances. That soon after the marriage she went to live in his father's family, & she was there living in his family when he was drafted & went away & she also remembers it from the circumstances, that she used to do some out door work which her husband did. Most all the men in the neighbor- hood were gone also. She also has a recollection of his going another time into the army & doing another term of duty after their marriage but she cannot specify the time but it was in fall of 1780 - She also remembers that when her husband was

absent in the army some of her friends used to play her a joke her by saying he would never come back again that he would be killed by the enemy of all these facts & circumstances she has very clear & distinct recollection, she also re- members that he was drafted & went away several times before her marriage when he was paying his addresses to her -
Prudence Williams
Providence R. I. In Cranston on this twentieth day of August A. D. 1840 personally appeared before me Pru- dence Williams, subscribe to the aforegoing declaration and made solemn oath of the truth of the same, and I do certify that said Prudence Williams is a credible person, and that her statements are entitled to full credit.
Amalia B. S. Dright Justice of the Peace Notary.

I Pardon Burlingame of Cranston, in the County of Providence and State of Rhode-Islands and Providence Plantations do hereby certify and say, that I am eighty-four years of age, that I was well acquainted with Elisha Williams formerly of Johnston in said County, and the husband of Providence Williams now his widow. In September 1777. I was then at Warwick and did a tour of duty there, and I was Sergeant Major for seven months during the fall and winter of that year. I further testify that I have a distinct recollection that said Elisha Williams was there doing a tour of duty at the same time in a company of Militia from Providence. In August 1778 I saw said Elisha on another tour of duty. This was what was called Sullivan's Expedition on Rhode Island. I remember having conversation with him at that time, he told me he was a Sergeant and acted as a Quarter Master. He then did a tour of duty of a month. I do not remember his Captain's name.
For Don Burlingame
Residence L. I. In Cranston, on this twentieth day of August, A. D. 1840 personally appeared before me Pardon Burlingame, subscriber to the foregoing deposition and made solemn oath of the truth of the same, and I do certify that said Pardon Burlingame is a credible witness, and that his statements are entitled to full credit.
Samuel Bliss Wright.
Public Notary.

I Sarah Baker of Wannick in the County of Kent & State of Rhode Island do testify & say that I am now Sixty years of age & upwards that I was born March 26. 1780 as appears by a Register of my birth in my family Bible. the leaf whereon it is recorded is herunto annexed I further testify that I am the eldest child of Elisha Williams & Prudence his wife My father is now deceased but my mother is living & resides in Cranston; my mother had but three Children. to-wit myself & John Williams yet living - The record of my birth & the births of my children & Marriage &c. was made some Twenty years ago, that of my own & husband was taken from an old book now lost
Sarah Baker
Kent sc. in Wannick Sep r 12 th 1840
Then Personally came before me the above named Sarah Baker & made Oath to the truth of the above affidavit by me signed - And I furthermore Certify that the said Sarah is a credible Witness
Philip Greene Justice of the Peace

FAMILY RECORD.
BIRTHS.
DEATHS.
Samuel Baker. Born in Scit. Samuel Baker Jun d Died June 30 th 1774. Oct. 3. 1826. Age 6 mo. 28 days.
Sarah Baker. Born Johnston. Sunday March 26 th 1786.
Elisha W. Baker. Born Cranston. Tuesday June 26 th 1793.
Daniel Baker. Born Cranston. Tuesday May 6 th 1806.
Mary Baker. Born Warwick. Saturday August 1 st 1812.
Samuel Baker Jun d . Born Warwick. Sunday March 5 th 1820.
Julia Baker. Born in Scituate May 18 th 1825
Sarah Baker. Born in Scituate July 1 st 1827
Samuel R. Baker Born in Cranston Oct 15 th 1829

FAMILY RECORD.
MARRIAGES.
Samuel Baker and Sarah Williams were married Dec. 3 d 1795. in the County of Providence and Town of Cranston
Daniel Baker and Delinda Relfh were married April 4 th 1824 in the County of Providence and Town of Scituate
Elisha W. Baker and Harriet Owen Sheldon were married May 21 st 1829 in the County and Town of Paw-
Joseph Baker and Mary Baker were married Nov. 25 th 1830 in the County of Kent and Town of Warwick.

Prudence Williams
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10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

I Stephen Young of Scituate in the county of Providence and State of Rhode Island aged 83 years do say upon oath that I gave an affidavit for Mrs Prudence Williams, widow of Elisha Williams, who is an applicant, I am informed for a pension. That the term of service, by me stated, in said affidavit, to have been performed in March 1780 under Capt. William Howard was so performed as I now verily believe, Although it is not in my Declaration for a pension; I served in the revolutionary war, over two years considerable, I served two long terms upon en- listments, besides one short one in March 1781 at Newport, these enlistments are all put down in my Declaration, and also several short terms which which I performed either as drafts or as a substitute, in the Militia, or upon call - but these last named short terms were performed previous to the year 1780, which with the said enlistments made over two years, which was all the act required, as I understood it at the time, wherefore I was less exact than I should have been as to the military service in the year 1780 -
Stephen Young

State of Rhode Island } County of Providence } Se In Situate on this fifth day of August 1840 personally came Stephen Young signer of the foregoing affidavit and made oath to the truth of all facts therein stated; I also certify that he is a credible witness in the premises - Before me - Isaac Saunders Justice Peace

I Philip Mathewson of Johnson, in the County of Providence and State of Rhode Island and etc., in oath, do testify and say, that I am now in the Seventieth Year of my age, and I do further testify in relation to the marriage of Elisha Williams and Providence Mathewson, as I before stated, she lived at my father's house at the time of said marriage, and I well remember the marriage took place in the winter of the Year 1779. - I was then between 8 and nine Years of age. I have a distinct recollection of the time of the marriage from the following circumstances, It was the cold winter, so called, of 1779, 80. - There was a vast deal of snow on the ground. I remember that, at the time of the wedding, I had my choice, either to stay and see them married, or ride a visiting in a sleigh. I chose to go and ride in a sleigh, and did not return until the next day. When I returned, they had been married, as I understood. I also remember it from another circumstance, that, although young, I well remember it was necessary they should be married, as she was in family circumstances, and it was necessary the marriage should take place immediately, and she had a child born not a great while after. I remember they were married by Elder Samuel Windsor, who had come to the house for the purpose of marrying them be-

fore I went a sleigh-riding. I saw him there for that purpose, and I distinctly remember this fact, as I before stated, I was between eight and nine years of age, and think I cannot be mistaken. I have a record of my birth, and by that rec- -ord it appears I was born May 3 rd .
1771.-
Philip Mathewson
Providence R.I. } In Johnson, on this Tenth day of June, A.D. 1840, per- -sonally appeared before me Philip Mathewson, subscriber to the afore- -going deposition, and made solemn oath of the truth of the same, and I do further certify that said Phil- -ip Mathewson is a credible witness.
Samuel S. Drury Public Notary.

I alise Eddy of Providence, in the County of Providence, in the County of Providence , on oath do testify and say that I am now in the seventy- ninth year of my age, and I do further testify and say, that I have been acquainted with Providence Wil- iams of Cranston, the widow of E- liha Williams, ever since I was a little girl. She always lived at my father's house until she went away to her mother's house in Johnson, named William Matthews about three months before her marriage. I was present at her wedding and saw her married. Elder Samuel Nims married her. It was in the winter of 1779. - after their marriage took place, he carried her home to his father's in Johnson. I went there to visit them about a year after- wards. Of the above facts I have a distinct recollection.
Alice Eddy
Providence ss. } In Providence on this Tues- day fifth day of August A.D. 1840 perso- nally appeared Alice Eddy, subscriber to the aforesaid deposition, before me, and made solemn oath of the truth of the same, and I do certify that said Alice Eddy is a credible witness, and that her statements are entitled to full credit. Samuel B. Dinsmore. Public Notary.

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
Secretary's Office Sept 14. 1840.
Henry Bowen Secretary of said State and Keeper of the Records and the Seal thereof.
Do certify, That at the date of the official certificate severally annexed, the said Gamaliel S Dwight was a Public Notary within the county of Providence; Eddy Walker, Justice of the Peace for the Town of Foster; Isaac Saunders Justice of the Peace for the town of Scituate, in said county; and Phileta Green Justice of the Peace for the town of Warwick in the county of Kent; duly elected and commissioned, as appears of record.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said State at Providence, the day and year above written.
Henry Bowen

A Williams

I James Howard of Foster in the county of Providence and State of Rhode Island aged 81 years do say upon oath that I was well acquainted with Elisha Williams late of Suttin in the revolution as was, I saw him on duty in said R. Militia both before and after his marriage to his present widow; I heard of his getting married about the time it took place; In March 1780 after his marriage he was drafted for a term of one month which he served out stationed at Warwick in Capt Williams Howard's company in Col Stephen Knapp's Regiment he was a Sergeant, he served in all I have no doubt as much as eight or ten months I saw him on the term in March 1780 several times & spoke with him about his wife -
James his x Howard mark
State of Rhode Island } County of Providence } In Foster on this 20 th day of July 1840 personally appeared James Howard signer of the above affidavit made oath to the truth of the facts therein stated: I also certify that he is a credible witness in the premises -
Before me Elisha Walker Just Peace

State of Rhode Island
County of Providence
On this 25- day of December A.D. 1839 personally ap- peared before me Duria Potter one of the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas within in of said County Prudence Williams now resident in the Town of Cranston in said County aged 81 years who being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed July 4, 1836 in that she is the widow of Elisha Williams formerly of Johnston who was a soldier in the war of the Revolution that he served in various companies & regiments during the War of the Revolution both before & after her intermarriage with him that she remembers distinctly that he served a number of tours of duty in the Army after her marriage she remembers it from the circum- stances of his being absent from home He was absent a month at a time But such a great length of time has

declared that she is unable from her recollection to specify his services she must therefore rely on the evidence of those who served with him - and she further declares that she was married to the said Elisha Williams in December AD 1779 but her marriage is not recorded in any public record as she believes she was married in said Johnston by Elder Miness. Her husband the said Elisha Williams died on the 19 th day of May AD 1831 and since that period she has remained a widow wherefore she requests that a pension may be granted to her agreeably to the provisions of the act aforesaid.
Attest Myrill Potter
Dorrence Williams
Providence for her Cranston Dec r 25 AD 1889
Personally appeared before me Dorrence Williams Subscribed to the foregoing declaration and made oath to the same and I further certify that said Dorrence from age & infirmities is too feeble to attend court
Myrill Potter Just G. G. Pleas

I Elisha W Baker of the City of Providence in the County of Providence & State of Rhode Island being 40 years of age on oath do testify and say that the affiant named Prudence Williams is my Grand Mother and the said Elisha Williams was my Grandfather & that he the said Elisha departed this life on the 17 day of May A D 1831 and that the said Prudence since the decease of the said Elisha has remained unmarried
Providence for Cranston Dec. 25 A D 1839 Elisha W Baker Personally appeared before me Elisha W Baker who signed the foregoing affidavit in my presence and made oath to the same and I further certify that said affiant is a credible witness
Merrill P. Potter Just. C. C. Pleas

S. Samuel W. King of Johnston County of Providence do certify that I have been Town Clerk of said Town 20 years last past & have in my possession the records of deaths & marriages which have taken place in said town. that I have examined the records from the year 1777 to the year 1830 & I cannot find the record of the marriage of Elisha Williams & Prudence Matthews or any record of their childrens births I further certify that many marriages & births of children within the period above stated have taken place as I believe which have never been brought to be recorded
S. W. King
Johnston Jan 1 1840
State of Rhode Island &c. Providence Feb 17. 1840
Then the aforesaid Samuel W. King Subscribed and made oath to the foregoing before me. And I further certify that said Samuel is a credible witness.
William Aplin Sub. Notary

I Alice Eddy of Providence in the county of Providence & State of Rhode Island being now in the seventy eighth year of my age, on oath do testify and say that I have been well acquainted with Providence William, the widow of Elisha Williams, late of Scituate, now residing in Cranston in said county ever since we were young girls. I well remember when said Providence was married to said Elisha. They were married at her Brother's  uncle's in Johnston, in said county by Elder Samuel Waisor. I was present at the Marriage. I don't distinctly recollect the month of in which they were married but to the best of my recollection it was late in the fall or forepart of the winter of 1779.
Alice Eddy
Providence fc In Providence Dec. 14 1839 Then the aforesaid Alice Eddy subscribed and made oath to the foregoing before me. And

further certify that said Alice is a credible witness
William Aglin Public Notary
18th Feb 1881
Alice
1881

Deposition of Samuel H. Wilson

I Gerrit Winsor of Johnston in the County of Providence and State of Rhode Island & C of Lawfull age on oath do testify and say that I am the Grand Son of Elder Samuel Winsor that his papers and Records are in my possession all that I have any knowledge of that among them I have not found any Record of Marriages nor do I know that he ever did keep any such Record I live now and occupy the mansion house where my grandfather Elder Samuel Winsor formerly lived and did and always have
Gerrit Winsor
The Above Deposition of Gerrit Winsor was taken and sworn to at Johnston this ninth day of January A 1840 Before Me Paris Mattewson Justice of the Peace
And I further certify said Gerrit Winsor is well known to me and he is a credible witness Paris Mattewson Justice of the Peace

Deposition of Philip Matthews

I Philip Mathewson of Johnston in the county of Providence and State of Rhode Island do hereby testify and say that I was well acquainted with Elisha Williams and Providence Mathewson formerly of Johnston the said Providence was my aunt and lived at my father's house at the time she married Elisha Williams and had for some time previous. I well remember that it was in the winter of 1779 that Elder Samuel Wilson came to my father's house together with Elisha Williams and some others to the wedding I was not present at the time the ceremony was performed as I left home on that day for a visit. from that day to this I have always understood they were lawfully married and never have I heard it doubted or questioned
Philip Mathewson
The above Deposition of Philip Mathewson was taken and sworn to at Johnston this tenth day of January A D 1840
Before Me Paris Mathewson Justice of the Peace
And I further certify said Philip Mathewson is well known to me and he is a credible Witness
Paris Mathewson Justice of the Peace

I Richard Fenned of the town of Cranston in the County of Providence, State of Rhode-Island & being now in the eighty eighth year of my age on oath do testify & say that I was acquainted with Elisha Williams late of Scituate and form- -erly of Johnston in said County & State now deceased He was the husband of Providence Williams now his widow and residing in said Cranston. In the War of the Revolution among other services performed by me I commanded a Company of Rhode- -Island Militia and was stationed at Bristol Ferry in the year 1777 in the months of September & October said Regiment was commanded by Col. Joby Bower. At the time of Spencer's expedition when it was intended to attempt to go on to Rhode-Island then in preference of the British and Company marched with them with this intent but the expedition was abandon- -ed and we retreated back again to Bristol Ferry In the above mentioned expedition in said months of September & October in 1777 the said Elisha was a private in my Company & served about a month it might have been a day or two more or less which I cannot say at least The said Elisha might have served at other times with me but I do not recollect nor should I have recollect this service but for a particular circumstance which took place with respect to said Elisha which is improper to mention. My memory is so broken that I do not recollect the names of my men who served under me at various times with sufficient certainty to testify but I remembered Elisha Williams from the circumstance above allu- -ded to
Richard Fenned

Providence R.I. Jan 18th 1840 Personally appeared before me Richard Bennett who signed the within affidavit in my presence and made oath the same and I further certify that said affiant is a credible witness M ary Patten 6.6. Pears

I Stephen Young of Scituate in the county of Providence and State of Rhode Island aged 82 years do say upon oath that I was acquainted with Elisha Williams late of said Scituate, and formerly of Johnston, husband of Prudence Williams now his widow; in the revolutionary war: I also know of his doing several months tours of service in said war, in the Rhode Island Militia in the office of Sergeant; he was drafted for a tour of one month which he served out in said capacity in what is called General Sullivan's expedition this tour commenced in the forepart of August 1778 and ended about the first of September, he served in Captain Anthony Potter Company in Colonel William West's Regiment; he was stationed at Howland Ferry (so called) about twenty five Miles from home, he drew rations from the public stores, & was paid in paper, I believe; he was marched onto Rhode Island during this tour under General Sullivan; In July 1779 he was again drafted for a tour of one month, which tour he served out in said office of Sergeant, Stationed at Bristol about twenty miles from home in Capt. Anthony Potter's company in Col Thomas Holden's Regiment, at this time there was a line of troops from said Bristol to Warren, he was quartered at the Potter house so called, he drew rations from the public stores; & I think he was paid in paper money; this tour ended about the first of August 1779: In November 1779 he was again,

drafted for a term of one month, which he served out Stationed at Warwick, quartered at the Lippit house, (so called) in Capt. Simon Harringtons Company in Col. Thomas Holders Regiment, about twelve miles from home; he drew rations from the public stores, & this term ended about the first of December 1779 He was again drafted for a term of one month which he served out, Stationed at said Warwick, quartered at the Jon corner. (so called) in March 1780 in Capt. William Howard Company in Col. Stephen Kimball Regiment; he drew rations from the public stores, dur- ing this term which ended about the first of April 1780 in all said terms he was Sergeant & acted as such; he was a small active man; I saw him often during said term, & was myself a soldier at said times; The troops were generally paid in paper money.
Stephen Young
State of Rhode Island }
County of Providence } ss December 22 d 1839
Then Col. Stephen Young, signer of the foregoing Disquisition personally came & made oath to the truth of the facts therein stated; I also certify that he is a credible witness - Jonah Titus
Public Notary -

I Samuel Kimball of Sistruate in the County of Providence and State of Rhode Island aged 77 years do say upon oath that during the revolutionary war I was well acquainted with Elisha Williams late of said Sistruate deceased and formerly of Johnston the husband of Prudence Williams now his widow; said Elisha did various monthly tours of service in said war as sergeant in the Rhode Island Militia all which as I understood & believe he performed upon drafts, as follows In February 1777 he performed a tour of service as sergeant in said Militia Stationed at the Lockwood house so called in Warwick about ten miles from home this tour was for one month which he served out in Capt. Comer Smith's company in Col John Watrous's Regiment he drew rations from the public stores; this tour ended the forepart of March 1777.
In August 1777 he performed a tour of one month which he served out at some place in same capacity of sergeant in Capt Simon Harrington's company in Col John Watrous's Regiment; this tour ended about the forepart of September, drew his rations from the public stores; as in the former tour.
In December 1777 he served a tour for one month stationed at Howland's Ferry, quartered in a house at that place, was about thirty miles from home, he drew rations from the public stores, was in Capt Simon Harrington's Company & in Col John Cook's Regiment; this tour ended the first of January 1778.

In April 1778 he was again drafted for a term of one month which he served out, as Sergeant stationed at said Warwick quartered at the Lockwood house (so called in Capt Simon Harrington's Company in Col. John Waterman's Regiment: I saw him often during said four terms of service, being myself a soldier: I also saw him on several other terms, he was in the expedition of General Sullivan in August 1778 I saw him in 1779 at Bristol in one term in Capt Anthony Potti's Company: he was also at Warwick with Capt Harrington, in November 1778 in Col. Haddon's Regiment, quartered at the Lippitt house: I heard of his going some after this; said Elisha was a smart active man, & made a good Sergeant the Troops were generally paid in paper money - & I think Williams was paid in the same way. Samuel Kimbell
State of Rhode Island } County of Providence } On the 15 th of January 1840 Samuel Kimbell signer of the foregoing deposition personally came and made oath that the facts in the same as stated are all true: I also certify that he is a credible witness: I also certify that the word "almost" on the first page was erased, and the word "his" on the second was interlined before the execution hereof. Before me Jonah Titus Public Notary

I John Alverson of the town of Johnston in the County of Providence State of Rhode Island so being 82 years of age on solemn affirmation do testify and say that I was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, was on Rhode Island in Genl Sullivan's Expedition (so called) in the fall of the year of 1778 that I was well acquainted with Elisha Williams late of Scituate & formerly of Johnston deceased husband of Prudence Williams now his widow residing in the town of Cranston in said County I saw him the said Elisha on Rhode Island in the above said expedition he was in the fort when I saw him for I well recollect how he started when the first cannon was fired we were standing near together he was a Militia soldier I cannot be positive how long he was out on this tour but well recollect of his being there with us from the circumstance above alluded to
John Alverson
Providence S d In Johnston Feby 7 th A D 1840
Personally appeared before me John Alverson who signed the foregoing affidavit in my presence and solemn affirmation to the truth of the same and I further certify that said affiant is a credible witness
My WILLIAM P. METCALF Just. C.C. Peace

4975 Prudence Williams
R.I.
act 74 July '36
say 8 mo. serg t —

I Edward Waterman of Johnstown in the County of Providence do testify & say that, I am eighty years old, - that I was well acquainted with Elisha Wil- liams formerly of said Johnston, the husband of Providence Williams now his widow; that during the war of the Revolu- tion I performed several terms of duty with the said Elisha - the first term of duty we did together was in December 1776, when we served as privates one month together stationed a part of the time at Pawtuxet & part of the time at Warwick about eight miles from home, in Capt Richard Ferrers Company of Militia in Col Stephen  Jabez Bowen's Regiment. And again in October 1777 in Spencer's expedition we served a month together as privates stationed at Tiverton about 35 miles from home, in the same Capt Richard Ferrers Company & in Col Bowen's Regiment. The above two months service I distinctly recollect, for which we were paid & received rations.
Edward Waterman
State of Rhode Island &c Providence December 13. 1839.
Providence County ss. Edward Waterman above named, who is a credible Witness, personally came & made oath that the above statement by him made & signed is true.
Before me
William H Smith
Judge of the Peace

State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
Secretary's office Feb 13. 1840
I Henry Bowen, Secretary of said State, and Keeper of the Records and the Seal thereof,
Do certify, that at the date of the several official certificates annexed, the said Daniel Potts was Associate Justice of the Court of Common Pleas within the County of Providence: William Aplin and Jonah Titus, Public Notary's within said County: Paris Mathewson Justice of the Peace for the town of Johnston, and William H Smith, Justice of the Peace for the town of Providence in said County: duly elected and commissioned, as appears of record. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said State at Providence, the day and year first above written. Henry Bowen Secy

Prudence Williams
R.I.
act 7. July '38
ad Sholery 40 $
No deduction
Payn (with) Providence R.I.
W. Williams

State of Rhode Island
County of Providence
On this sixth day of October A.D. 1840 personally appeared before me Harriet Potter one of the Justices of Court of Common Pleas within the said County Providence Williams was resident in Cranston in said County aged 81 years who being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of July 7. 1838 Viz that she is the widow of Eliza Williams formerly of Johnston in said County who was a soldier of the Revolution. that she was married to him in the month of December A.D. 1779 in said Johnston the widow whereof she caused to be transmitted to the Pension Office in Washington where she made her first application for a pension under the act of July 4th 1836 but having failed to be proven satisfactorily to the War Department any pension after her said

marriage she now relinquishes her claim for a pension under the last mentioned act, & claims it under the said act of July 7 1838 - for the reasons of her claims she refers to the testimony now in the Pension office. And she further deposes that her husband the said Ziba Williams departed this life May 17 1830 & since that period she has remained unmarried she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place prior to the first of January Nineteen hundred & ninety four to wit at the time above mentioned Prudence Williams
Attest of Amiel Potter
Providence R.I. Cranston October 6 th D 1840 Personally appeared before me Prudence Williams subscribed to foregoing declaration & made oath to the truth of the same. I further certify that from age & infirmities that she is too feeble to attend Court
Amiel Potter Just C.C. Pleas

I Elisha W. Baker of the City of Providence in the County of Providence & State of Rhode- Island being 42 years of age on oath do testify & say that I am well acquainted with Providence Williams who has signed & sworn to the preceding declaration that she is my grandmother & that the said Elisha Williams was my grandfather that he the said Elisha departed this life May 17 A 1831 since which time the said Providence has remained unmarried
Elisha W. Baker
Providence for In Cranston Oct. 6 th A 1840
Personally appeared before me Elisha W. Baker who signed the above affidavit in my presence & made oath to the same & I further certify that said affiant is a credible witness
Y. M. Potter Just. C. C. Pleas
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
Secretary's Office Decem. 12. A 1840.
I certify, that at the date of the official certificate severally annexed, the above named Yuriel Potter was an Associate Justice of the Court of Common Pleas within the County of Providence, duly elected and commissioned as appears of record in this office.
Witness Henry Bowen Secy

1307 Prudence Williams
$40 per am
Send cat. to B. Gowell Providence R. Hand
(signature affix)

STATE OF RHODE-ISLAND.
County of Kent
On this 11 day of April A. D. 1843, personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace in said County Prudence Williams now resident in Warwick in said County, aged 84 years, who be- ing first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath, make the following declaration, in or- der to obtain the benefits of the Act of Congress, passed March 3d, 1843, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War, viz: That she is the Widow of Elisha Williams deceased, who served in said War as a private That she received a pension under the Act of July 7, 1838, at the rate of $ 4.00 per annum, payable at the Agency for paying pensions at Providence.
Prudence Williams
Kent
Sc.
In Warwick April 11 th A. D., 1843.
Personally came before me the above named Prudence Williams and made oath to the truth of the above declaration by her signed.
Robert Perry Justice of the Peace

State of Rhode Island } Sc. County of Kent.
I, Jeremiah S. Hovey Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in the County aforesaid, being a court of Record, do hereby certify, that Robert Perry Esqr. is a Justice of the Peace in the town of Warwick in the County aforesaid, and is fully authorized to act, in his said capacity, and that his signature within written is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court, this sixteenth day of May A D 1843.
Jeremiah S. Hovey Ck

Rhode-Island. Nov 9.
Prudence Williams, widow of Elisha Williams, Decd.
who was a pensioner under the Act of and who died on the 17 th May, 1831 - of Providence C. in the State of R. Island who was a sergeant in the company by Captain Potter of the Regt. comman. by Col. West in the Rhode-Island line for 8 mos. Sergeant
Inscribed on the Roll of Rhode-Island at the rate of 40 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 10 th day of March, 1841 and sent to Benjamin Gannett, Providence, R. Island.
Arrears to the 4th of March, 1841.
Semi-annual allowance ending
$200:00
{ Act July 7, 1838. }
Recorded by S. A. E. Albin Clerk Book 1, Vol. 2 Page 28-

Prudence Williams
ad 918
Admitted
Franklin Greene Rovidence Rd

State of Rhode Island, } ss. COUNTY of Providence } ss.
On this Eleventh day of July 1848,
personally appeared before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Providence
Prudence Williams , a resident of Scituate in the county of Providence & 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 benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 2d of February, 1848, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war:—That she is the Widow of Elisha Williams , who was a Sergeant in the war of the Revolution, and that she received a pension of Forty dollars per annum, under the act of 17th of June, 1844. She further declares that she is still a widow.
Sworn and subscribed on the day and } ss. year above written, before me, }
Prudence Williams
Daniel Gould Justice of the Peace.
I certify that the above named affiant is personally known to me, and that she is the same individual who drew a pension as stated by her in the foregoing affidavit.
Daniel Gould Justice of the Peace.
State of Rhode Island, } ss. COUNTY of Providence } ss.
I John W Smith Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in the county aforesaid, being a Court of Record, do hereby certify, that Daniel Gould is a Justice of the Peace in the county aforesaid, and is fully authorized to act in said capacity, and that his signatures above written are genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court, at Providence on this (ninth) day of July 1848
John W. Smith , clerk

Providence Feb 22 1841
Sir
In answer to your letter of 24 Sept. last respecting the claim of Mrs. Pendergra Williams widow of Elisha Williams, I have to say that no further testimony can be produced to prove any service after the marriage. She has therefore relinquished her claim under the act of July 4, 1836 & applies under the act of July 7 1838 for a 5 years pension - You observe that 8 months service as Sergeant may be allowed under the last mentioned act. I have therefore to request that a certificate for the same may be granted - I am respectfully your obt servt
Benja Lowell
J L Edwards Esq

Providence Sept 15 1840
Sir
In answer to your letter of April 28 th respecting the claim of Mrs. Prudence Williams widow of Elias. I have with enclose further testimony both as to service & the marriage - also a further state- ment of Mrs. Williams herself - I would particularly call your attention to the affidavit of Philip Mathewson the important fact to wit the necessity of her marriage & the affidavit of Sarah Baker & the record of her birth annexed - which fully corroborates the evidence of Mathewson as well as others as to the date of the marriage Mrs. Baker was the child, who was born not a great while after the marriage as Mathewson testifies and there were as many as two terms of duty after the birth of this child

The supplemental Statement of Mrs Williams was drawn up by me in her presence & from her own words & I feel bound to say she appeared perfectly candid & very sincere - Hoping the evidence will now be satisfactory I have to request a certificate may be granted for what service is promised -
I am respectfully your obt servt Beryl Laurell
J L Edwards Esq

Providence Feb 13 1840
Sir I am requested to forward to you the application of Mrs Pudence Williams widow of Thika Williams for a pension under the act of Congress of July 4 1836
I am respectfully your obed Servt Benj. Russell
1840 41 99
Thos Edwards Esq

4975 R 92
Suspended Let. to Benj. Cowen Apl. 28 th 1840 To same Sept. 24, 1840.
act 4 July '36

Rhode Island
Prudence Williams widow of Elisha Williams who was a Sergeant in the R.I. line for 8 months
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 40 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 14 th day of July, 1843. and sent to
B. Correll Providence R.I.
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book A. Vol. 1. Page 98.

Sep 77- Aug 78- Father July 79 - " Nov. - Harrington Mar. 80 Howard-
 Stollings  Early Spencer exp? Fenners || 10nd Sullivans ||- Seyl 1- Patten House 1 - 1. Warwick || " 1. Fourcorners 1 - 1
Feb 77 Oliver Smith - Aug 77- Harrington X Dec 77. " Apr 78- " Dec 76 Oct 77 Capt Fenners-
Lockwood House " Howland's Ferry Warwick
Serg? 1
* * * * *

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 22636
Prudence Williams
Widow of
Elisha Williams
Sergt. Ser. No.
Act: Feb 27 48.
Index:—Vol. 16 , Page 345.
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Hon L. P. Waldo
Committee of Privileges
Washington
Sept. 1852

✓ 26.075
3 New Amp

Providence William (Mrs) Elisha Reg 3 m 555 no 7659 Recd 2 nd July 48 — 901 Boynton
Ad d
S.Y. 76
L P. Waldo
Commr of Pensions
Washington
D.C.

# Providence June 4 1855
Sir
I have received your letter of the 26 th (printed) respecting the claim of Prudence Williams widow of Elisha Williams for Bounty lands under the act of March 3 d 1855. You observe her claim has been examined & suspended for the reason that the 3 d section requires a "service of fourteen days to be established by more evidence" "upon the production of which her claim would be favorably considered" In reply to which I have to say, that when the Militia of Rhode Island were called into service, in the war of the Revolution, they were generally paid by the State, and the State charged such payments to the United States, and the United States credited back what had been so advanced. In these settlements all the Pay Abstracts, Rolls were forwarded to the seat of Government, then at Philadelphia to the care of the members of Congress of this State, who generally procured a settlement, or they were put into the hands of U.S. agents to be forwarded, and they are now I presume in the Archives at Washington unless perhaps they were destroyed when the War Department was burnt about the beginning of the present century. These abstracts were forwarded without retaining copies, so that there is now, not a particle of evidence of the services of the Militia in any

official department in this State, that is, pay abstracts, containing the names of the soldiers of the Militia. For many years I sought for such evidence but without success to establish pension claims — Elisha Williams, the husband of Prudence belonged to the Militia. It is impossible therefore to produce any "record evidence" of her husband's services from any official source in this State but such evidence can be found in the archives at Washington unless, destroyed as above mentioned & to that, of necessity you are referred.
Nor could any other record evidence be required if the same rule of action should be adopted in Bounty land cases as has been in pension claims — By the 2 d section of the act of May 7 1846 making appropriations for widows, it is enacted as follows "Nor shall any evidence in any case be required to entitle a widow to a pension when the evidence is in the Archives of Government" In The case of Prudence Williams is a parallel case and a parallel rule of action should & ought to be adopted
But I would respectfully ask, is there not other "record evidence" at Washington in the Archives of Government within the meaning of the 3 d section of March 3 1855 sufficient to establish her claim? I believe there is. When a claim is adjudicated upon and a Judgment pronounced, does not that adjudication become "record evidence"

in all Courts of Law? Is it not, I ask, so considered by all Judicial tribunals? When claims are brought before such Courts, and after investigation & trial a judgment is obtained, is not that judgment "record evidence" of the facts connected with such claims? Such I believe to be the opinion universally entertained & sanctioned by all tribunals in all cases, and so upon the same principle permit me to say, is the adjudication in the case of Prudence Williams, her claim for a pension she alleged services of her husband in certain companies and regiments in the Militia in the War of the Revolution. This claim was investigated & allowed a Judgment of the War Department obtained in its favor Now I ask, Is not this judgment "record evidence" within a fair construction of the 3 d section of the act of March 3/1855? This 3 d section does not define what that evidence must be or where recorded It does not require that, that evidence must come from the Adjutant General's office or from the Third or Fourth Auditor's or from any other office, in particular either at Washington or elsewhere - Hence it is fair to conclude that if it is to be found in any office where public records are kept, it meets the requirements of the act. In the case of Prudence Williams, therefore, the adjudication of her claim many years ago & its allowance by the Secretary of War is fairly & truly "record

evidence" that her husband served "fourteen days" in the war of the Revolution as if found in any other office I beg, Sir that the decision in her case may be reconsidered for if allowed to prevail not a single claimant, soldier or widow , whose services were in the Militia of R.I. can be a recipient under the latest unless perhaps in some cases it might be shown that the claimant or claimants husband was in the battle August 29, 1778, in "Sullivan's expedition" in which the Militia were called to serve,
I am Respectfull Your obt Servt Berya Correll
Hon S P Hildreth

Providence March 19 1855
Sir
I herewith enclose the application of Pamelia Williams widow of Eliha Williams for Bounty, issued under the act of March 3, 1855. She refers to the evidence she obtained when she obtained the pension she now draws, as the best evidence of her marriage & husband's death. It was then satisfactory & must therefore be at the present time —
I am Respectfully yours at Sub Benja Lowell
Howland P. Phelps