Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 1015, Thomas Willis, New York

SERVICE
NUMBER
New York
Willis, Thomas Hulda or Huldeh
No. 1015
CONTENTS

2222.
New York (Albany)
Gulda Willis
Widow of Thomas Willis
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a private N.Y. Lines
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 80 Dollars 00
Cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.
Certificate of Pension issued the 3 rd day of October 1853 and sent to
R. H. Crowbridge Syracuse N.Y.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 87. Vol. A

5339
New York
George Terwilliger 5-1853
Thomas Willis
New York in the State of New York who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain Stuart of the Regt. commanded by Col Willett in the New York line for Nears-
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 80 Dollars — Cents per annum, to commence on the 14th day of March, 1834.
Certificate of Pension issued the 8 day of Feby 1833 — and sent to Hon. C.C. Cushing Atty Repre.
Arrears to 14th of Sept 1832 — $ 120.00 Pension allowance ending 4 Mar 33 40.00 $ 160.00
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by Inobrown Clerk, Book D Vol. 5 Page 205
2 a 92 1847 —

Hulda's Willis
Re. F. Fowbridge Attorney Syracuse N.Y.
See A. P. ... in

State of New York Onondaga County ss.
On this twenty eighth day of March A.D. 1853 personally appeared before the County Court of Onondaga County Mrs. Hulda Willis who being duly sworn according to law says that she is the widow of Thomas Willis deceased and is a resident of the city of Syracuse in said County and State and aged seventy nine years, that said Thomas Willis was a private in the Continental Army and subsequently drew a pension from the United States Government.
She further declares that she was married to the said Thomas Willis on the fourteenth day of November, one thousand eight hundred and two - that her said husband died on the eighth day of December A.D. one thousand eight hundred and forty seven.
She further swears that she is now a widow
Hulda Willis
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year above written and I further certify the following to be a true copy of the Record in the family bible which from appearances I have no doubt is correct and correct "viz" Thomas Willis was Born April 12 th 1761 - Hulda Willis was Born August 10 th 1773. Was married November 14 th 1802 - James Rathbun Willis was born September 22 nd 1808 & Died October 22 nd 1858 - Caleb Osborn Willis was born October 22 nd 1811 - Josiah Wyatt Willis was Born May 22 nd 1816 & died September 28 th 1819
Israel Spencer Judge of Onondaga County Court & Councillor in Supreme Court.
In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of said Court this 28 th day of March 1853 Barnard Slover Clerk.

Know all Men, by these Presents, That I Huldah Willis of the City of Syracuse in the County of Onondaga and State of New York, have made, constituted and appointed, and by these Presents do make, constitute and appoint Robert F. Brockbridge of the town of same place in the County of Onondaga and State of New York my true and lawful Attorney, for me, and in my name, place and stead to prosecute, obtain and receive from the United States government all pensions, monies, lands and other benefits due me by any act of Congress as widow of Thomas Willis a revolutionary soldier and pensioner of the said government
Giving and granting unto my said Attorney, full power and authority, to do and perform all and every act and thing whatsoever, requisite and necessary to be done, in and about the premises, as fully, to all intents and purposes, as I might or could do if personally present, with full power of substitution and revocation, hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said Attorney, or his Substitute, shall lawfully do, or cause to be done, by virtue thereof.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this fifth day of March in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty three
SEALED AND DELIVERED IN PRESENCE OF C.M. Emrick
Huldah Willis
State of New York, } ss. On this fifth day of March in ONONDAGA COUNTY, } the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and fifty three before me, personally came Huldah Willis to me known to be the individual described in and who executed the within Power of Attorney, and acknowledged that he executed the same for the purposes therein mentioned. J. H. Mott
Justice of the Peace and Commissioner of Deeds.
State of New York, } ss. ONONDAGA COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE, }
I, Barnard Slover Clerk of said County, hereby certify, that J. H. Mott Esq., whose name is subscribed to the above Certificate of acknowledgement, was at the time of taking the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, and authorized to take the same; that I am acquainted with his hand-writing, and believe the above signature to be genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County, this 18 th day of March 1853
Barnard Slover Clerk.

Hulda Willis To R.F. Brownridge Power of Attorney
R.F.B. I hereby certify that the above is a true copy of the original

State of New York
Onondaga County ss: On this twenty ninth day of March A.D. 1853 personally appeared before me a justice of the peace in and for said county and state Morton J. Lawson who being duly sworn according to law says that he is well acquainted with Huldah Willis now present and was well acquainted with Thomas Willis deceased husband of the Huldah Willis now present - that he was present at witnessed the marriage ceremony between the said Thomas Willis and Huldah Willis at Conesville in the month of August in the year 1802 as near as deponent recollect - that he knew them to live together for many years as husband and wife and to raise a family of children as such
Morton J. Lawson
Subscribed and sworn to before me the day and year above written
J. H. S. Justice of the Peace
State of New York
Onondaga County ss: Mary King being duly sworn says she is well acquainted with Huldah Willis now present and was well acquainted with Thomas Willis, deceased, a prisoner of the United States, that she has been acquainted with them for forty years both at their place and in New York City - and knew them to live together as husband and wife during all that period until his death - that she knew them to raise a family as such and they were reported and believed to be husband and wife
Mary King
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 28 th day of March 1853
J. H. S. Justice of the Peace

State of New York
Onondaga County ss
On this thirtieth day of March 1853 personally appeared before me the Subscriber, a justice of the peace in and for said County James Morgan and James F. Barker
who being first duly sworn according to law say that they were well acquainted with Thomas Willis deceased late a pensioner of the United States and with Huldah Willis now present his widow that they knew them to live together as man and wife and that they were reported and believed to be such by all who knew them - that they were present at and witnessed the funeral ceremonies of said Thomas Willis deceased at Syracuse on or about the eighth day of December 1847
James Morgan James F. Barker
Subscribed and sworn to before me the day and year above written J. H. West County Clerk
I believe the want of a certificate that the above witnesses are competent in this case. S. M. Waldo

copy of witness
x 2
not authenticated
adm d
2 years pri.
80%

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the seventh of June 1832 State of New York City & County of New York } ss;
On this Seventeenth day of January A.D. 1833 personally appeared be- fore the Court of General Sessions of the Peace in and for the City and County of New York Thomas Willis a resident of the City and Coun- ty of New York in the State of New York aged sev- enty one years and upwards, 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 7 th 1832. That in the Month of April 1778 this Deponent then being about seventeen years of age and residing at Cornwall in the County of Or- ange and State of New York, Volunteered as a sub- stitute in a Company of the State Troops or Mili- tia of New York raised for a service of eight months of which Abraham Westfall was the Captain and a Mr Rose the Lieutenant. That deponent faith- fully served out his time of eight months at or near Minisink in the said County of Orange, the Company having been raised and being em- ployed in keeping back the hostile Indians - That in the Month of April 1779 Deponent again enlisted in the same manner and in the same Company for a like service of eight months and served out the said eight months in nearly the same District of Country, and on the same duty as before stated and was discharged; but received no written discharge. That in the Month of April 1780 Deponent enlisted in the same manner as before stated for another term of eight months in the same Company, and ser- ved about five months of the time out near

Esopus on the West side of the Hudson River at Beriers Mills; while so engaged on duty, a recruiting officer in the regular service came to our Post, and ten of our men including Deponent enlisted for the residue of the Eight Months and fifteen days or half a month more - Deponent and the other recruits were marched down to West Point, where they joined the 5 th New York Regiment of which Colonel Willett was the Colonel, in the Brigade commanded by General James Clinton, Deponent was attached to a Company of which James Stuart was the Captain. Colonel Willett was absent at the time, and the Regiment was commanded by Captain Hamtramack. That Deponent during this term of service was marched down with the rest of the troops to some place in New Jersey where they were reviewed by General Washington and after the review, they marched up again to Orange Town at Tappan - While they remained at the latter place, Major Andre was hung - Deponent was present at the execution under arms - After the execution of Major Andre, the Brigade to which Deponent was attached, marched to West Point, and began building huts for winter Quarters in which they had made some progress, when an order came to send men down to Westchester to guard the lines - Deponent with others volunteered for the service, and having marched down and remained about twelve or fifteen days, they were ordered to return to West Point where Deponent remained until about five days before the expiration of his term of service, when the Troops being ordered up to Sccharie, Deponent and several other soldiers who lived in the neighborhood requested their discharge; Captain Hamtramack assented to it and took Deponent and some others in a boat to Fishkill landing - While on the way he gave Deponent a written discharge; and on arriving at Fishkill landing he gave Deponent and the other discharged men, an order for three

days provisions, Deponent crossed over to Newburg and thence went home to his mother's. He left the discharge which had been given him at his Mother's house, and it was subsequently by some accident lost. Deponent has not seen it for Twenty years past. Deponent further saith that he never received any other written discharge; and that he knows of no Officer or other person with whom he served being now alive. That he has no documents of any kind relating to his having been in service during the Revolutionary War. Deponent further saith, that at the breaking out of the Revolutionary War, his mother who resided at Cornwall in the County of Orange and State of New York was a widow with one daughter and three sons of whom Deponent was one, and all three sons turned out in defence of their Country - Deponent further saith that he hereby relinquishes any Claim 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 -
Sworn to and subscribed, 30  Thomas Thib the day and year aforesaid. 30 in open Court.
Richard Hatfield
Clerk

We Samuel Hull & Jacob Hays
hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with Thomas Willis, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be forty one 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 the day and year aforesaid. in open court
Samuel Hull Jacob Hays
Richard Hatfield 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 abovenamed applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states. And the court further certifies, that it appears to them that Samuel Hull who has signed the preceding certificate, is a credible person — resident in the City of New York, and that Jacob Hays — who has also signed the same, is, a resident in the same city, and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
R. P. Wker Recorder of the City of New York W. Muhl. Alderman M c Clure Ald. 6 th Ward

I Richard Harsfeld Clerk of the court of General Sessions of the peace in and for the City and County of New York
do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Thomas Willis for a pension -
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of the said Court - This Twentieth day of January in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three -
Richard Harsfeld

State of New York
City & County of New York
ss: Henry Willis of the City of New York Cartman being duly sworn doth depose and say that Thomas Willis named in the foregoing Deposition or Declaration is the Brother of this Deponent. That the Father of this Deponent was dead at the commencement of the Revolutionary War - his mother was living with four children, one daughter and three sons - The sons names were Henry (this Deponent) Thomas, (named in the above declaration) and James who is now dead - That shortly after the commencement of the war, this Deponent entered the service, and was in active service for a considerable time during the war - and about a year or two after, his Brother Thomas also entered the service - The said Thomas was in the New York State Militia - What Regiment he was attached to, or who were his Officers deponent does not know - Nor does he know for how long a time he served - Deponent and his said Brother were enlisted in different Counties, Deponent having enlisted in Dutchess County and his said Brother in Orange County - And it was only therefore at intervals that he saw him or knew of his being in the service - That he met his said Brother in the service at one time at West Point and also at Verplanck's Point, at which latter place they with about thirty or forty other soldiers were employed to cut wood for the use of the Army - That at times when Deponent visited his Mother, she spoke repeatedly of the said Thomas being out in the service - It was a common remark in the neighbourhood, and often spoken of that the Widow Willis' three sons were all out in the Army - And Deponent further saith that he hath heard the foregoing declaration of his said Brother Thomas read, and he verily believes that the statement therein contained is true -
Sworn to in open court of Genl Sessions New York the 17 Jan'y 1833
Henry Willis
Richard Halstead Clerk

1.177
Oct. 2/52
In the matter of the Petition of Huldah Willis for Pension
Declaration of Huldah Willis
George Terwilliger, Syracuse. N. Y.

State of New York } Onondaga County ss }
Mary King of the City of Syracuse State of New York being duly sworn deposes & says that she has been acquainted with Huldah Willis for many years - that she lived in the same house with said Huldah Willis & her husband Thomas Willis for about the period of two years in the City of New York - that she resided in the same neighborhood with said Huldah Willis & Thomas Willis for a number of years - that she was present at the marriage of said Huldah & Thomas Willis & saw them married - that the marriage took place in the City of New York & according to her best recollection in or about the month of November in the year 1798. - that said Huldah & Thomas Willis lived together as man & wife until the death of said Thomas - that said Huldah has not been married again & that she is now the widow of said Thomas Willis - that said Huldah now lives in the same City, the City of Syracuse State of New York, with deponent & further says not
Subscribed & sworn to before } me this 28 day of September 1852 {
J. Hunt Clerk of the Peace
Mary King

STATE OF NEW-YORK, } Onondaga County Clerk's Office, } ss.
I Certify, That John Hurst whose name is subscribed to the Jurat of the annexed instrument, was, at the time of taking the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, and duly qualified and authorised to take the same. And I further certify that I am well acquainted with his hand-writing, and verily believe the signature to said Jurat is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County, at Syracuse, this 29 day of Sept
1852.
Rufus Cossit Clerk.
1.177 On the r of Huldah Declaration
George

In the matter of the Declaration of Huldah Willis for Pension
Affidavit of Mary King

In the matter of the Petition of Huldah Willis for Pension
Affidavit of Caleb O. Willis

State of New York Onondaga County ss
Calib O. Willis of the City of Syracuse Onondaga County State of New York being duly sworn says that Huldah Willis of said City, County & State is about applying for a pension - that he is the son of said Huldah Willis - that his Fathers name was Thomas Willis - that said Thomas Willis was a soldier in the Revolutionary war & drew full pension for services performed in said war as a private - that said Thomas Willis died on 8 th day of December 1847 & that he was a pensioner at the day of his death - that his said Father & Mother Thomas & Huldah Willis lived together as man & wife until the death of said Thomas - that he has often heard them speak of their marriage - that he has seen the family record in the Bible belonging to his said parents & that said record contained a statement of their marriage - that since the death of his Father which occurred as aforesaid said Huldah, his mother, has lived with him in his house - that she never has married since the death of his Father but still remains a widow - that she has never before applied for a pension & further say not
Subscribed & sworn to before me the 25 th day of September 1852
C O Willis
Richard Woolworth Justice of the Peace
STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss. ONONDAGA COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE, }
I Certify, That Rich d Woolworth whose name is subscribed to the Jurat of the annexed instrument, was, at the time of taking the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, and duly qualified and authorised to take the same. And I further certify that I am well acquainted with his hand-writing, and verily believe the signature to said Jurat is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County, at Syracuse this 29 day of Sept 1852.
Rufus Cossit Clerk.

State of New York } Onondaga County } p
On this 29 th day of September in the year 1852 personally appeared before me Israel S. Spencer, County Judge of Onondaga County Huldah Willis a resident of the City of Syracuse in said County aged Seventy nine years, who being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provisions made by the Act of Congress passed the 29 th day of July 1848. Huldah Willis declares that she is the widow of Thomas Willis who was a private in the Army of the United States in the Revolutionary war from the State of New York & who served during the war, & for particular facts in regard to said Thomas Willis her husband as aforesaid she refers to the records on file in the War Department which show the service performed by him, under whom he served, in what battles he was engaged, when he entered & when he left the service and all other & necessary facts requisite to be shown to entitle her to a pension under the above act of Congress. & she further declares that her said Husband Thomas Willis received a pension for his services in said Revolutionary War & was drawing a pension at the time of his death, which pension according to her best information & belief commenced in or about the year 1831 or 1832. & further declares that she has no means of obtaining the requisite proofs to entitle her to a pension under said above entitled act of Congress, excepting those on file in the War Department of the United States
She further declares that she was married to the said Thomas Willis on the 14 th day of November in the year Seventeen Hundred & Ninety Eight, that her husband the aforesaid Thomas Willis died on the 8 th day of December 1847 - that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place previous to the Second of January 1800 viz at the time above stated. She further swears that she is now a Widow & that she has never before made any application for a pension
Sworn to & subscribed on the day & year } above written before me, Israel S. Spencer County Judge,
Huldah Willis

STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss. Onondaga County Clerk's Office, }
I Certify, That Israel S. Spencer whose name is subscribed to the Jurat of the annexed instrument, was, at the time of taking the same, a Judge in and for said County, and duly qualified and authorised to take the same. And I further certify that I am well acquainted with his hand-writing, and verily believe the signature to said Jurat is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County, at Syracuse, this 29 day of Sept 1852/
Rufus Cossit Clerk.

Thomas Willis
adm d
Hon. C. C. Cambaking Ho: of Rep:

BRIEF in the case of  Thomas Willis  of New York in the State of New York  (Act 7th June, 1832.)
 1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? In open Court  2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity? ✓  3. How old is he? Seventy One  4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed. 
   Period. Duration of Service. Rank. Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served.   Years, Months, Days.     In 1778 — 8 — Private Gen. Capt. Westfall col. raised to repel the Indians N.Y. Mil.   '79 — 8 — Do Capt. Westfall   '80 — 5 — Do " "   '80 — 3 15 Do Col. Mearns Willett, Capt. James Stuart N.Y. line   24 15  
 5. In what battles was he engaged? None of any note  6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Cornwall, Orange Co. New York  7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? By living witnesses and by the rolls in part  8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? NO. 
I Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
Geo. C. Stiles Examining Clerk.

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section. um
December 8, 1924.
Mrs. William H. Mansfield, 56 Ring St., Putnam, CONN.
Madam:
I have to advise you that from the papers in Revolutionary War pension claim, W.1015, it appears that Thomas Willis was born April 12, 1761.
While a resident of Cornwall, Orange County, New York, he enlisted in April 1778 and served eight months as a private in Captain Abraham Westfall's New York Company. He enlisted in April 1779 and served eight months in the same Company. He enlisted in April 1780 and served eight and one half months in Captain Abraham Westfall's New York Company and in Captain James Stuart's Company, Colonel Willett's New York Regiment.
He was allowed pension on his application executed January 17, 1833, while a resident of New York City, New York. He died December 7, 1846.
Soldier married November 14, 1802, Huldah ---- who was born August 10, 1773. She was allowed pension on her ap-

plication executed September 29, 1852, while a resident of Syracuse, Onondaga County, New York. She died July 20, 1854. (from a.p.)
The following children are mentioned:
James Rathbun born September 22, 1808, died October 22, 1808. Caleb Orsburn " October 22, 1811, residing in Syracuse, New York in 1852. Josiah Wyatt " May 22, 1816, died September 28, 1817.
Respectfully,
Acting Commissioner.
I used the date of widow's 1 st ap. as it had been used before in previous letters but she was not al pens. until she ap. on another Act.

Syracuse 10 th June 1853
Hon. L. P. Waldo Comm ee Pensions
Dr Sir
Yours of the 4 th is recd. I am surprised at the statement you make in relation to the case of Mrs Huldah Willis. She came to me in the Spring and again in the Summer of 1852 to see if she could obtain a pension. She said she was married in 1802, and I saw the record in the family Bible, written very legibly. I informed her that she could not obtain a pension, that there was no law to benefit her, and she left me. I heard afterward that she had gone to Geo Frowilliger - who is now editor of a Whig paper here - and that he had told her she would have a pension.
I cannot see how Mrs Frowilliger could make such an error , when the the records in the old Bible are plain perfect and legible. I can hardly think it was accidental. Mrs King is a conscientious old lady, and made the same statement to me in 1852, that is set forth in her affidavit of this Spring. I copied the Record and know it to be correct. When the Act of 3 rd Feb 1853 passed I neglected the old lady and made the present application. It could not be

Suspected that the present claim could by any possibility be founded in fraud. The husband was a pensioner - the widow was married to him - no matter when, so far as she is concerned. She now was accessory to a fraud, every thing forbids such a suspicion
I know that many persons who had applied to me for aid in procuring pensions, and whom I have advised that there was no ground for the claim - had applied to others and had succeeded in their applications . I cannot understand how this can be so.
The entry in the Bible has not been altered since I first saw it in 1852. It is perfectly plain "November 14 th 1802"
Anything I am able to do for you I shall be glad to assist Please advise
Yours very Respectfully
R. F. Crowbridge
R.S. I will write you again in relation to this matter - but shall expect my communications to be considered confidential R. F. T

Pension Office,
June 4. 1853.
Sir,
The papers transmitted in support of the claim of Huldah Willis, for pension under the act of Feb 3, 1853, as the widow of Thomas Willis have been examined and the case suspended for the present.
It appears, from documents in this on file in this Office that the  the claimant made an application in October 1852 for pension under the Act of 29 th July 1848, through George Perwilliger, her agent. Under this act it was indispensable that the claimant should have been married to the soldier prior to 1 st January, 1800. In her declaration in that application she swears positively that she was married on the 18 th day of November 1798 . Mary King, also a witness then, and (also a witness in the present application) swears to the same thing, and Caleb O. Willis (an alleged son of claimant) states under oath that "he has seen the family record in the Bible belonging to his parents." - Her claim, notwithstanding was rejected, on the ground that the record itself not having been transmitted. In the claim now set up a transcript from "the family bible," certified by the Court, is produced, in which it is made to appear that the claimant was

"married Nov. 14. 1802."
It is thus apparent that a such fraud was attempted, and perjury committed, in the former application, or that the entry in the Bible, now certified by the Court, and sent in support of the present there is very little doubt but that the former is the state of the case, but without a satisfactory explanation by the parties, under oath, the the applicant cannot be allowed a pension. If the claimant was imposed upon, in her former application, by others, she must so state, and thus enable the Office to institute protect itself from impositions of a like character from the same source, and in this view the office
In investigating this matter the Office relies upon your co-operation.
Very respectfully Jc
W. F. Snowbridge, Esq. Attorney at Law Syracuse N.Y.

Brief in the case of Auldah Willis, widow of Thomas Willis Onondaga County and State of New York act 3 rd February 1853.
Claim, ("original," or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband was a pensioner under the act of June 7. 1832
Marriage proved by verified copy of Private record, and the affidavit of Morton J. Larson who witnessed the ceremony — certified to be correct.
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
W. F. Knowbridge Esqr. Syracuse
Name and residence of Agent New York
R. D. D. D. Examining Clerk.

Syracuse Sept 20 1852
J. E. Heath Esq.
Dear Sir
Since writing to you concerning the search for the statement of services &c. of Thomas Willis a Revolutionary Pensioner, in behalf of his wife Huldah Willis who intends applying for a pension, I have received a line from L. Jenkins Esq. Pension Agent at Albany in our State, that he is of the opinion that said Thomas Willis was a pensioner under Act June 7, 1832 & that his pension must have commenced 4 March 1831. I thought this would aid you in the search & therefore send it. Mr Jenkins is not certain & I hope therefore you will not stop pursuing it should appear that Willis did not received his pension under that act. as the Widow is in great need of a pension for her support. Mr Jenkins also states that business of this kind is despatched very promptly in your office & that I can soon receive a satisfactory answer to my enquiries. Hoping this will remain Yours George Ferrilliger Atty at Law

House of Representatives Washington Jan'y 4 1853
Hon J. E. Heath Comm Pensions Sir,
Will you cause the inquiries of Mr Terrelliger as to Mrs Huldah Willis in the accompanying letter to be answered and much oblige
Your Obed Servt D. T. Jones N.Y.

Syracuse 2 nd April 1889
Hon L. P. Waldo
Dr Sir
This woman's husband having been a pensioner precludes the necessity of proof of service the certificate of her husband has been returned to the office
Yours &c
Rev F. Trowbridge

Syracusa Sept 29 1852
J. E. Heath Dear Sir
Enclosed you will find the declaration & affidavits for procuring the pension for Huldah Willis a widow of a Revolutionary Pensioner. In reply to a letter of enquiry addressed to you concerning the facts necessary to secure a pension for Mrs Willis, S. Cole Esq in your office informed under date of Sept 18 th that all that was necessary to obtain a pension for Mrs Willis would be to establish the identity as the widow of Thomas Willis & that she was married to him prior to the 1 st of January 1800. This I have done & I am sure you will find an affidavit of Mrs Mary Kingston she was present at the marriage of Thomas & Huldah Willis & that they were married in 1798. Also another of her son identifying her as the wife of Thomas Willis. Her declaration also establishes. According to the decision of Atty Genl Butler of August 18. 1837. in New York  that Marriage is a civil contract & that no formal solemnization is necessary. So that we have all the proof necessary.
You will perceive that Mrs Willis asks for pension under the Act 29 th July 1848. She can therefore draw pension from that date. Please have the pension granted without delay
Very Respectfully Yours George Penniliger
Inform me when granted as I have power of Attorney for receiving it

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION HENRY P. EMERSON, SUPERINTENDENT
GRAMMAR SCHOOL NO. 48. Edna Pl.
Josiah Wyatt Willis PRINCIPAL
BUFFALO. N. Y. Nov. 6, 1911.
Commissioner of U. S. Pensions! Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
I am writing you for the record of service in the Revolutionary War of Thomas Willis of some one or more Regts of the New York Line and possibly of other service earlier in a New England Regt. as he was born on Block Island. He was a Pensioner and my grandfather. He died in Syracuse N.Y. some time about 1847. His wife, my grandmother, Huldah Wyatt Willis also received a widows pension until her death in 1854, on Hawley St at Syracuse N.Y. Her Pension Attorney was named Snowbridge with his office on Genesee St Syracuse N.Y., as I well remember as a small boy going there with my grandmother. All of our family records were lost with a box of books when my father moved to Illinois in 1856 after my grandmother's death. I am trying to complete as far as possible a record of the services of members of my ancestors in the wars of the U.S.
I would also be greatly obliged if I can obtain the record of services of David Butler my mother's father who also received a pension for services in the Regulars during the war of 1812. He lived in Oneida Co. N.Y. when he first received a pension and afterwards in Madison Co NY. (wid. est. 1685-1 mar 1812) Mar. 1812 wid. David Butler.
Very respectfully
Josiah W. Willis.
P.S. The Adjt Genls Dept of the Army refers me to your department for more explicit information than that Dept can give. J.W.W.
Prin. Edna Pl. School Buffalo N.Y.

1817
Syracuse Jan'y 26 Hon. S. P. Waldo Conn Penn Sir Sir
I have come in possession of some facts in an attempted case of fraud on the W. S. gov and I wish to learn what there is of the case and suppose you can inform me I refer to the case of George Schmitzinger in Mrs Willis Matter, will you be kind enough to inform me what are the facts in the case that I may be guided in my course whether to have the delinquent made to answer for it or not and Much obliged
V. C. James No. 101 Snowhill
P.S. There were some Penns paper sent back to our County Clerk office that you thought was fraud saying his name was William Hays there is no man by that name the paper one fraud a month I have got the paper in my possession and I have got the warrant in

for the man made the paper in stead of using William Hayes it is G. Wesley Woodman
I will have him on the list no mistake
Yr W. C. Furniss

Pension Office
August 27, 1833
Sir
In reply to your letter of the 22 d inst n . I have the honor to state that the case of Houldah Willis is before the Com- -missioner for his decision upon some points involved in it. It will receive early at- -tention. The case of Ruth Randall has not yet been reached; as soon as cases of the date of her application shall come up for examination, you will be informed of its condition,
Very Respectfully J. Cole Acting Commissioner
R. T. Newbridge Esq. Syracuse N.Y.

Nyssa 24 th Sep 1878
Hon L.P. Waldo
Dr Sir Has the case of Hulbert Willis been adjudicated yet - Some six months since you informed me that the papers were received - some three months since that all that was wanting was a state- ments of some person had in relation to a former application Please let me hear from the matter
Yours Respectfully
R.F. Knowbridge

Spanner 1 st July 1853
Hon D. P. Wasson Conw H
Dr Sir
Yours in relation to the questionable application of Huldah Willis widow of Thomas Willis late a pensioner, for a pension was received and replied to You had probably received the statement sent by Mr Ferridges and by Mr Sheldon. If Mr T. never saw the Record, that would be easily account for one error. The others Mr T. says were on the statements of her son. How true this may be you must judge for yourself Mr T. is a very respectable young man much beloved, and it would ruin him to expose him by a criminal prosecution even if he was dishonored . He says he never knew but two applications and they were both answers to. All things considered I would not move in the matter at present.
I hope the last appli- cation of Mrs W. will not be delayed on this ground for the deceased and child's old woman is certainly innocent of all guilt

in the matters set forth in that said application.
There are numerous insane  prisoners in this section of the State whose claims for such assistance from government are matters of surprise; and who are no more worthy or needy of it than I am. And I presumed if there were strict proof of continued disability was strictly enforced, numbers of such lazy rascals would be shaken from the public purse. I could instance, if desired, quite a number of this class.
Yours very truly
Re F. Howbridge

Syracuse June 11 th 1853,
S. P. Waldo Esq.
Ordn.
I was this morning shewn, by Mr Knowlton, your letter of the 4 th inst in relation to the application of Huldah Willis for a pension by which, it would appear that in a similar application made in October last there was some material misstatements made in relation to the date of the marriage of Mrs Willis -
The facts stated in your letter would seem to point to Mr George Terwilliger of this city as having had some intention in procuring the false statements contained in Mrs Willis' petition & in the affidavit of Mrs King.
Having been well acquainted with Mr Terwilliger a number of years & believing him to be a gentleman incapable of intentionally procuring false affidavits I thought it my duty to call on him immediately & hear his explanation of the matter & advise him to procure affidavits to other evidence if possible & forward them to you that you might be satisfied if possible of the absence of bad intent on his part.
Mr Terwilliger very readily explained to me the whole transaction & by that explanation I am not only satisfied of his entire innocence in the affair, but believe when you read the enclosed affidavits you will be satisfied also.

In the first place Mr. T. was not engaged in the business of procuring Pensions to any extent. He never prepared papers in but two applications. Neither of which was successful, & those papers were prepared with very little attention & from facts placed in his possession by other persons, he being at the time the Assistant Editor of a Newspaper printed in this City, of which paper (The Syracuse daily Journal ) he is now the Sole Editor, -
So far as character is concerned, we have no man in our City of pure morals, & he is esteemed by all his acquaintances as a Young Man of fine promise,
Such you will readily learn from any others to whom you may refer. On the facts, I have thought it was best you should be possessed of them before you should decide fully, that any absolute fraud was committed, -
I cannot learn that any intentional fraud was designed in that application. The applicant as well as the witness, Mrs. King, I am informed are very aged people - No one would for one moment think of imputing any fraudulent design to them, & I can readily perceive how the whole mistake occurred. It is probable that Mr. Corvillier informed this old lady that she would be entitled to a pension if her marriage took place prior to 1800, & that from information then communicated he drew up the petition, but you will see from the affidavits enclosed that Mrs. Willis took the paper with her & retained it over night & then

would before a judge & verify it, -
Mistakes so often occur in preparing papers detailing facts of an ancient date & old people have usually such an indistinct recollection of dates, that I am most fully convinced this was a mere mistake. The family record was not present at the time of preparing the papers, & all was stated from recollection.
At all events every idea of fraud is repelled by the manner in which the business was done & the character & standing of the parties concerned in it, -
Should there be any other point in the matter which you desire any further evidence concerning I would be glad to have you state it.
I would refer you for information in regard to myself & also in regard to Mr. Penwillings, & O. J. Ruger, a clerk in the P. O. Department in your city as the only person I now think of who is in Washington at this time.
Very Resp ly Yours
H. Sheldon

July 7, 1883.
Letter in case of Aneidah, widow of Thomas Willis, A. Genk.
Paper in relation to previous applica- tion of Claimant
R. F. Frowbridge, Syracuse, N. York.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, PENSION OFFICE, OFFICIAL BUSINESS

Oct 9. 52
Female Concerning Willis' application for Pension
FREE
Oct 9/52
E. Heath Esqr Comm of Pensions Washington D. C.

April 2. 1853
App l of Styldah recillis widow of Thomas
NY 24
5642
Act 3 Febry 1853.
FREE Rental
R. F. Frowledge Syracuse
C. Waldo Dear Pension Washington

Communion
Hon L. P. Waldo Com of Pensions Washington City D. C.

Walden Wallis M.D. Mrs. Wallis Rail
FREE
S. P. Waldo Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

1877 Hulda M. Thomson widow of George Thomas 1844
George Terwillegar b. March 25/53 H. in D.T. Jones May 26, 1883
Act July 29, 1848

Sept 23/52 Re: to case of Haddah cessis wid: of Thomas.
Geo: Tennessee Seymour J. E. Heath Esqr Comm of Pensions Washington D. C.

Jan 15/53
Rev: Jeremiah mal: cause of scandal accidentis mid: Thomas
Hon D. V. Jones Vice Pres.
Mr D. V. Jones Baldwinville J. E. Heath Con Pensen Washington

Pension Office, Sept. 28. 1853
Sir,
Please certify the time to which the within named pension was paid; and, if in your power, the date of his death
Very respectfully Your ob't. Servt
S. Cale For Commissioner.
H. Burt Esqr } 3 d Auditor, } Present }
(See other side.)

Thomas Willis, act 1832 $80.00. p. annum.- Died 7 th December 1846, Paid to his estate,
F. B. Smith Scranton,

Pension Office Sept. 30/53
Sir,
The proof in this case shows the pen- sioner to have died in the year 1847 - Please re-examine your books
Very respectfully Your Obt. Servt
J. Cale For the Commr.
F. Best Esq. 3 d Auditor. Present
Thomas Willis, act 32, $80. p.a. died 7 th Dec r 1846, arrear paid to his Widow, on settlement 2 nd Apr 1847. There is evidently a mistake in the Widow's papers herein. —
F. Best Auditor

1177 Oct 2 1852
App't of Huldah C. Willis widow of Thomas.
FRED
C. Heather N. York Locust of Pennsylvania Washington D.C.
Oct 29 - July 1848.
Geo. Tuvilligan Syracuse New York
Oct 2/52 Car of Huldah Willis Mrs. Freeman

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, Pension Office, Official Business
App n of Hulda Willis, widow of Thomas Willis
Onondaga Co New York
Act 3 d February 1833 Rev.
Ann d $80 per annum commencing 3 d Feb'y 1833
R. F. Crowbridge Esq. Syracuse New York

No 820
Huldah Willis widow of Thomas M. Y.
Set to R. H. Townbridge June 4. 1853.
Act Feby 2/53

Rev. War
WIDOW, &c.
1911 Nov. 15 - Hist. To Josiah W. Willis V.L.M. 1924, Dec 8 - Hist. To Mrs. Wm. H. Mansfield. See let. in cl - W. 24 342, David Nichols 4/24
File No. 1015 Hulda Willis Widow of Thomas Willis Brig. Rev. War
Act: Feb. 3, 1853 Index: Vol. M , Page 336
[Arrangement of 1870.]

State of New York } Onondaga County } p
Huldah Willis of the City of Syracuse being duly sworn deposes & says that she went to George Tenilliger in October last, to get him to aid her in procuring a pension - that she then related the facts of the case as she then recollected them. She does not now remember what she told him - said Tenilliger drew up the application for her pension & gave it to her - reading it before he gave it to her. She took the application home with her & next day went before Judge Spencer and testified to it. As she understood it the application was correct. It was read to her several times by one or two different persons. Said Tenilliger did not see the Family Record. He called at Deponent's residence for that purpose when she was away from home, & did not then see it. This was the only time he ever called as Deponent believes. Deponent told said Tenilliger the facts as she then recollected them & believed them to be correct. Deponent was with said Tenilliger at the residence of Mrs King, to get her affidavit, & heard it read to her, & that she heard Mrs King say it was right as she then recollected.
Deponent further testifies that the application was sent on to Washington in October last, but that she never heard from it, & believes said Tenilliger did not but once, as he informed her, & then there was no prospect of obtaining a pension. He then gave the matter up, until Mr Howbridge called on her.
Deponent further testifies that she believes said Tenilliger drew up the application & affidavits as she related the facts to him, & as she then recollected them.

Deponent further says that her memory is not good, but that she made her statement according to her best recollection.
Deponent further says that she has known said Tenilliger for some time & knows that he would not misrepresent the facts as she stated them even if it were possible.
Subscribed & sworn to before me, by Huldah Willis to me known, who in my presence & hearing, heard the foregoing affidavit read. this 11 th day of June 1853.
} Huldah Willis
E. C. Foot
Commissioner of Pleadings in City of Syracuse

Affidavit of Geo. Semilliger
I have been thinking of the past and how things have changed since we were children. It seems like a lifetime ago. I wish I could go back for just one day, to feel that sense of peace we once had. But time moves on, and we must move with it.
I am writing this to you, my dear friend, as a way of keeping our connection alive. I hope you are well and that life is treating you kindly. I have been very busy lately, but I have managed to find some time to sit down and write to you. I hope you will be able to read this and feel a sense of comfort.
Yours truly, Geo. Semilliger

State of New York Onondaga County ss
George Terwilliger of the City of Syracuse, being duly sworn deposes & says that Houldah Willis of said City came to him in  on October last, as he believes, for the purpose of getting Deponent to aid her in making application for Pension. She came two or three times Deponent informing her that he was not accustomed to the business. He then enquired of her the facts of the case. She stated to him as nearly as he can recollect the following - that she was married to Thomas Willis in November 1798. This was her first statement. She made no other, as Deponent considered that sufficient. She then said that Mrs Mary King would testify that she was married to Mr Willis. Deponent went with Mrs Willis to the residence of Mrs King & enquired of her regarding the marriage, which facts deponent put down (and which manuscript he had until lately in his possession). He found out all he could from Mrs King concerning the marriage. Mrs King's memory was not very good in the matter, but he got from her all that he supposed was necessary. From this he drew up the affidavit, read it to her, & she testified to it. She said the affidavit was correct as she understood it. Deponent only  put in the affidavit what he gathered from the manuscript supposing the facts correct as he thinks Mrs King did at the time.
Deponent also when he drew up Mrs Willis application gave it to her & she carried it home. He gave it to her in the evening. She kept it as Deponent now thinks until the next day, or the day after when she went before Judge Spencer, as Deponent

now believes I testified to it. Deponent also read it to her & she told him it was right, as she believed. These were her words.
Deponent further says that he never saw the Family Record, and relied on what was told him regarding it. He called at Mrs Willis residence to see it, but Mrs Willis was absent, and he could not get in.
Deponent further says that at the time he was engaged in aiding Mrs Willis, he was very busy in other matters, & told her he must rely upon her & her friends for bringing in facts, & that he had no time to give the matter a full investigation.
Deponent further says he firmly believed all that was told him by Mrs Willis & others, & only acted upon what they said. He had no means of knowing, or the least intimation that anything was misrepresented. Deponent further says he believes both Mrs Willis & Mrs King gave him the information in October last as they then recollected it, as both are very old ladies.
Deponent further says that the first intimation that the facts contained in the affidavits of Mrs Willis, Colt O. Willis & Mrs King were not correct, was this morning, (June 11 th ) when a letter was shown him written from the Pension Department at Washington.
Sworn to before me this 11 th day of June 1853.
George Terrilliger
Z. C. Foot
Board of Deeds in Syracuse

information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau. Thomas Willis N.F. 1015-
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     Apr. 1778 8 mos. Pvt. Abraham Westfall ✓ N.Y.   Apr. 1779 8 mos. Abraham Westfall ✓   Apr. 1780 8 1/2 mos. Abraham Westfall ✓   James Stuart Willett  
was present at hanging of Major Andre
Battles engaged in, _____
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Cornwall Orange Co. N.Y.
Date of application for pension, Jan'y 17, 1832. His ch. al.
Residence at date of application, New York City N.Y.
Age at date of application, b. Apr. 12, 1761; died Dec. 7, 1846.
Remarks: Soldier married Nov. 14, 1802 Huldah _____ b. Aug. 10, 1773. She was al. Pension on an application executed Sept. 29, 1852 when a resident of Syracuse, Onondaga Co. N.Y. Family record shows James Rathbun Willis b. Sept. 22, 1808, died Oct. 22, 1808. Caleb Osburn Willis b. Oct. 22, 1811. Josiah Wyatt Willis b. May 22, 1816, died Sept. 28, 1817.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.