Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 15721, John Woodruff, Conn. Privateer

SERVICE
NUMBER
Conn. Privateer
Woodruff, John
S. 15721
CONTENTS
leaded

Connecticut
John Woodruff Fourth in the State of Conn who was a private in the company by Captain Griswold of the reg- by Col. Whitney in the Conn line for 2 years John Woodruff Cat # 22572 Colonel & Privatier aw
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut at the rate of 80 Dollars — Cents per a to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 4 day of Sept 1833 and O S Sayer Litchfield
Arrears to the 4th of Sept 200.00 Semi-ant. allowance ending 4 March 40.00 $240.00
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by David Doyt Clerk Book 8 Vol. 7 Page 47

Sept 4 - 1835
33.
28

BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims , of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of John Woodruff which require further proof or explanation.
I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? my II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? my III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so? no IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served? my V. * Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled? no VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations? my VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? my VIII. Has the Court given their opinion? my IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate? my X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal? my

 XI. Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolutionary service? no  XII. If the clergyman's affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtaining it? no  XIII. If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one living witness, has he stated in his declaration that such proof cannot be had? no  XIV. † If the applicant's name is not found on the rolls of military service, has he produced a witness or witnesses as to his service? no If he has produced direct proof as to service, has the magistrate who administered the oath, certified to the credibility of the witness or witnesses? no Has the proper officer certified to the official character and signature of the magistrate as the regulations direct? no  XV. Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant's service? no  XVI. ‡ Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct? no  XVII. Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily? And, if not, which of them is not so answered? answered 
EXPLANATORY NOTES.
* QUERE V. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words: "Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades; For _____ year _____ months, and _____ days, I served as a _____ For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension."

12567
John Woodruff from 1776 private 2 yrs $80. Recd 5 14/16
O S Seymour Albany
Please return W. Burgh

BRIEF in the case of  John Woodruff  of Torrington in the State of Connecticut  (Act 7th June, 1832.)
 1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? Open Court  2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?  3. How old is he? Seventy two years.  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.     enlisted In 1776 Oct 2 about (5 1/2) Gen. Wooster   " 10 Apr 1777 Capt Griswold, Col Whitney   " 3 Capt Barnes. Genl M c Dougal   drafted — " 5 Capt Budd. Col Hooker   " 1778 Jan about 3 Capt Waugh. Col Cook   " — Apr about 2 1/2 Capt Waugh Col Mead   " 1779 July 1 or more. " — Col Adams   " 1780 3 Capt Stoddard   drafted 1781 about 3 weekly teamster Capt Bradley. Col Beebe   seasoned — " Sep about 2 Capt Barnes   4 1/2 Capt Giller — Maj Strong   Capt Hance  
 5. In what battles was he engaged? many skirmishes.  6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Silchfield Conn.  7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditional evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? A clergyman & other persons certify to traditional evidence. S. Harrison proving in 1770 & 1777 as stated. Blackstone proving in 1770 with Capt Giller. John Hall proving in 1777.  8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? 
I Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
J. A. North Examining Clerk.

Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7. 1832.
State of Connecticut } Court of Probate for the District and County of Litchfield } in the County of Litchfield.
On this 17 th day of September 1832 personally appeared in open Court before the Hon: Court of Probate for the District of Litchfield in said County now sitting John Woodruff a resident of Torrington in said County, aged 72 years, who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7. 1832 — That he entered the service of the United States under the following named Officers and served as herein stated — viz —
I was born in Oxford New Haven County Conn. on the 8 th of October 1760. My name and the date of my birth is recorded in my father's family bible, which is the only record of my age that I know of. I lived in Oxford about 12 years when I removed to Litchfield, Conn. where I resided when I entered the service in the Revolutionary War. I remained in Litchfield till about 13 years ago, when I removed to Torrington Conn. where I now reside
In Oct 1776 I enlisted into Capt Shubael Griswold's Company, Col Whiting's Regt Connecticut State Troops, to go to New York. Lieut Pitts. Lieut Col Canfield and Major Beardsly were officers in our Regt. Our other Company Officers were 1 st Lieut Mason, 2 d Lieut Theodore Caltin and Ensign Buel. Genl Wooster commanded the Brigade. Soon after my enlistment which I think was about the middle of the month, I marched to New York where our Companies and Regt were formed. We lay there a few weeks and then marched to Rye, New- Rochelle, Valentine's Hill, and Selancy's Mills. We had frequent skirmishes with the enemy and captured several British Light Horse at New Rochelle. Our Company was then stationed at Selancy's Mills for a month or longer, and while we were there we were attacked by

the enemy in the month of January or February, and driven back to Valentine's Hill where we had an action. Our Compy was the only Compy stationed at the Mills, but several other companies were stationed at and near the Hill. The attack at the Mills was very sudden and we had hardly time to escape leaving our packs and baggage behind us. When we reached the Hill we met the other troops where a stand was made. Genl Wooster commanded during the engagement, and soon commanded a retreat to the Hollow, where we formed and brought up some field pieces to bear on the enemy when they retreated. One of our Compy, Levi Smith was killed in this action. After the action our Compy were stationed for a few days at Valentine's Hill, and then returned towards New Pitts, halting occasionally for a week or fortnight at New Rochelle Rye and other places, and sending out scouting parties every day. We had very frequent skirmishes with small parties of the enemy during the whole of this service. Our Compy enlisted to serve till the first of April 1777, and new recruits were coming in for a considerable time after I joined the Compy. I remained in the service till the term of my enlistment expired and was discharged by parole. As evidence of this service I send herewith the affidavits of Gideon Phillips and Solomon Harrison who were members of the same Compy with myself.
Immediately after my discharge I returned to Litchfield and after remaining about a week I was drafted to go to Poughkeepsie for three months, in Capt Barns Compy state Connecticut State Troops. Our Compy Officers were Lieut Smith and Ensign, Elihu Harrison. Our Col's name I do not remember. Genl. McDougal commanded the Brigade, and our Brigade Major's name was Plott. We were employed mostly in keeping guard, and went out on scouting parties occasionally. While we were there Danbury was burned, we went on to the mountain and saw the smoke of the burning. At evening we were ordered to take four days provisions, leave our packs and march to intercept the enemy. We marched accordingly and reached Reading, near 20 miles from Danbury, early in the morning, when word came that the British had gone on board their shipping and we returned. I remained in the service till

sometime in July when, our three months, (the term of our service) having expired, I was discharged by parole. As evidence of this service I send herewith the affidavit of Solomon Harrison who was a member of the same company.
A few days after my return to Litchfield in 1777 there was an alarm that the enemy were burning the villages on the North River. We were all called out. I was put into Capt Archibald Buel's Compy, Lieut Ephraim Harrison. The Ensign's name I do not remember. Our Compy was attached to Col Aske's Regt, Lieut Col Hills. We were stationed at Esopus and remained there about two months. We were in a constant state of alarm and were employed in preventing the enemy from landing. They landed however and burned several places. I saw the smoke when Esopus was burning. After staying here the aforesaid two months, our company was divided and I was put into Capt Alexander Waugh's Compy, Col Cook's Regt, under Genl Parsons Command. We went down the river on to the lines. We marched to Pechskill where we found the barracks, in which we lodged in my former tour of service, had been burned. Pechskill or Crown Point was the head quarters of Col Aske's Cook's Regt. from which we marched occasionally in different directions as circumstances rendered it necessary. We went to White Plains several times. We had frequent skirmishes in small parties. I remained in the service in this Compy about three months. I believe, making five months service for the whole term, when I was discharged by word of mouth. As evidence of this service I send herewith the affidavits of Solomon Harrison and John Hall the only evidence I can procure.
In Jan. 1778 I went in Capt Waugh's Alexander Waugh's Compy Lieut Samuel Harrison, to Horse Neck. There were several other Companies stationed there, and we were all under the command of Col Mead of Horse Neck. We were stationed as a front guard on the lines, and were engaged in frequent skirmishes. When we were on Byram's guard we were attacked by a party of British Light Horse. Sherwood's guard was attacked about the same time and it was said that they killed 8 men. None of our men were killed when we were attacked. I remember that Col White

with a detachment of horse and foot went down and attacked the British guard and took 30 or 40 prisoners and some horses. I saw them and the prisoners when they returned. I remained in the service at this time about three months, when I was discharged by parole. Of this service I have no evidence to substantiate my statement, nor am I able to obtain any, though I have diligently endeavored to obtain it.
In April 1778 I was drafted to go to Horse Neck for three months. I went in Capt Waugh's Comp, Lieut Samuel Harrison, and Ensign's name I do not remember. We were in Col Adams' Regt Connecticut State Troops. We went to Sherwood's Bridge, Byram's Bridge and White Plains, and were employed most of the time in scouting parties. I was not at this time in any skirmish with the enemy though they were frequent with some of our guard. The names of the other officers I do not remember. I staid there about three months, when I was discharged by parole. As evidence of this service I send the affidavit of Solomon Harrison who was also a member of Capt Waugh's Comp.
In July 1779 I was called out at the Norwalk alarm, and marched to that place under Capt Bryant Stoddard, Ensign Jonah Sanford, the Lieut's name I do not remember. When we reached Norwalk, on the day after the burning, the enemy had got on board their vessels. The town was still burning and the dead lay on the ground unburied. We staid at Norwalk 3 or 4 days and then marched on to Stamford and were employed a month or more in keeping guard in that vicinity, along the sea shore. Of this service I have no evidence and am not able to procure any though I have often tried to procure it.
In the summer of 1780 I was drafted a member of Capt Bradley's Comp, Col Beebe's Regt Connecticut State Troops, stationed about 2 or 3 miles above Horse Neck, in tents. Our Adjutant's name was Bull, our other Regimental Comp Officers I do not remember. There were two Regts stationed there, Col Beebe's and one under Col Wells. I was acquainted with Capt. Olmsted, Curtiss, and Collins who commanded companies in Col Beebe's Regt. Col Wells was the

John Woodruff's Declaration,
12.567.

Commandant. We were employed in scouting parties, and had frequent skirmishes, in one of which Enos Barns, my townsman and a member of the same Company was killed. On one occasion the British Light Horse took some cattle and horses, which Col Beebee retook. I was in this skirmish. I staid in the service at this time three months, and was discharged by parole some time in the fall of the year. I have no direct evidence of this service but send the affidavit of Samuel Blakeslee, herewith, in support of my statement.
In the winter of 1780 and 81. I went to drive a team under the command of Capt Barns, to carry provisions and ammunition from Hartford Conn. to the American troops at Peks skill. I went to supply the place of an enlisted teamster who was sick or lame. I continued in this service about six weeks. I have no evidence of this service and can procure none, and I have stated it not knowing whether it comes within the species of service required by the act of Congress. If it does not, the mentioning it, I suppose will do no injury.
In the summer of 1781. I was drafted, I believe, into Capt Gillet's Company, to go to Stratford. A guard was stationed there of several companies, S or 6, I should think. We were under the command of Major Strong. Our other Company Officers were Lieut Ephraim Harrison, Ensign Catten. We were out in scouting parties almost every day, had some skirmishes, though nothing of great importance occurred. There were several hundred troops there, some of them Continental troops, commanded by Capt Collins a Continental Capt. I remained in the service at this time about two months and was discharged by parole. Of this service I send herewith the Affidavit of Samuel Blakeslee, who was a member of Capt Gillet's Company, and which is the only evidence I am able to procure of this service.

In Sept 1781. I went as a volunteer to New London Conn. soon after it was burnt. Was employed there in keeping guard under Lieuts Sharp and Short part of the time on board a Brig called The Jay and part of the time on the land. After staying there about six weeks, I went on board the Brig about the 12th of November under the command of Capt Havens, and cruised back and forth to Cape May, New York &c. The Brig Carried 14 guns, our Master's name was Wolfe, Lieut James Seymour, Prize Master's Spencer. We had 61 men on board. We took a British Schooner bound from Nova Scotia to New York laden with provisions. I was put on board with Lieut's Seymour and Spencer and 5 or 6 others to bring her to New London. We were taken by a British vessel and carried to Long Island and kept a prisoner about six weeks at a place called Barren Island, on the south side of Long Island. The Capt of the Schooner, (Spencer) went to New York and obtained leave for us to go home. I went immediately home and arrived there, I believe, then on the last week in January. I was in the service of the United States at this time at least four and a half months. Of this service I have no evidence and after diligent inquiry am unable to procure any.
I have no documentary evidence of any of the above service nor any evidence of any kind except the affidavits above referred to, which are all the evidence I am able to obtain.
I am known to the Rev William A Gould and Lyman Wetmore Esq and others of Torrington who can testify to my character for truth and of their belief of my services &c.
I hereby relinquish every claim whatever to any pension or annuity but the present and declare that my name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid
John Woodruff
before me Oliver Wolcott, Judge of Probate Litchfield District, Conn.

We William R Gould a clergyman residing in the town of Torrington, Litchfield County Conn.
and Russell C Abernathy residing in said Torrington
hereby certify that we are well acquainted with John Woodruff, who has subscribed and sworn to the foregoing declaration, that we believe him to be 72 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. Wm R Gould Russell C Abernathy
Sworn to & subscribed this _____ day of _____ A.D. 1901
Frederick Wolcott Judge of Probate
Litchfield District, Conn.
And the said Court do hereby declare their
opinion after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department that the above named applicant, was a Revolutionary soldier, and served as he states; — and the Court further certifies that it appears to them that Wm R Gould who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in said Torrington and that Russell C Abernathy who has also signed the same is a resident in Torrington and is a credible person and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Frederick Wolcott Judge of Probate District of Litchfield, Conn.

I Phinehas Miner, Clerk of the Court of Probate for the District of Litchfield in the County of Litchfield, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of John Woodruff for a pension —
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and the Seal of the Court this 25 th day of Septm 1832
Phinehas Miner Clerk

August 14, 1934
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
John Woodruff-W.16483 John Woodruff-S.15721 BA-J/AWF
Mrs. R. E. Warden Bliss Street, Southmont Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Dear Madam:
The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, W. 16483, based upon the military service of John Woodruff during the War of the Revolution.
He was born September 29, 1757 in Old Milford, Connecticut, names of his parents not given. He moved to Waterbury, Connecticut in 1772.
While residing in said Waterbury, John Woodruff enlisted and served with the Connecticut troops, as follows-
From May, 1775, seven months as private in Captain Phineas Porter's company, Colonel Ward's regiment, and was at the taking of St. Johns; from March, 1776, two and one half months in Captain Jesse Curtiss' company; from June or July, 1776, three months in Captain Benjamin Richards' company, Colonel Baldwin's regiment; from September, 1777, two months in Captain Benjamin Richards' company, Colonel Baldwin's regiment; from March or April, 1778, one year as sergeant in Captain Jesse Curtiss' company, Colonel Cook's regiment; from September, 1781, three months in Captain Joseph Guernsey's company.
He was allowed pension on his application executed August 15, 1832, at which time he was a resident of New Marlboro, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, having moved there in 1802.
He died February 16, 1834 in New Marlboro, Massachusetts.
This soldier, John Woodruff, married in May, 1779,

Sarah Cole, the daughter of Thomas Cole, the name of her mother is not shown. They were married by the Reverend Trumbull of Waterbury Parish, Litchfield County, Connecticut.
The widow, Sarah Woodruff, was allowed pension on her application executed, November 13, 1838, then aged eighty years and living in Hudson, Columbia County, New York, with her son, Anor Woodruff. She died May 15, 1839.
The following is a list of the children of John Woodruff and his wife, Sarah-
   John Lewis  born  December  4,  1779     Garret  "  November  18,  1782,  died February 15, 1814    Uriel  "  April  16,  1785     Jared  "  August  14,  1789     Thomas  "  April  28,  1792     Elisha  "  May  9,  1795     Anor  "  September  10,  1798     Amos  "  November  7,  1801,  died November 13, 1801    Amos  "  September  14,  1803    
Samuel Woodruff, brother of this soldier, John Woodruff, was in 1838 seventy-nine years of age and living in Waterbury, Connecticut; he served with his brother, several tours in the Revolution.
George C. Woodruff was in 1832 Justice of the Peace in Litchfield County, Connecticut; his relationship to the family not stated.
John Woodruff-S.15721
The record of John Woodruff, which follows was obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, S. 15721, based upon his service in the War of the Revolution.
He was born October 6, 1760 in Oxford, New Haven

County, Connecticut, names of his parents not given; when about twelve years of age, he moved to Litchfield, Connecticut.
While residing in said Litchfield, John Woodruff enlisted and served as a private with the Connecticut troops, as follows-
From October, 1776, five and one half months in Captain Shubael Griswold's company, Colonel Whiting's regiment, was in engagements at Delancy's Mills and Valentine's Hill; soon after, three months in Captain Amos Barns' company; in the summer of 1777, two months in Captain Archibald Buel's company, Colonel Hooker's regiment; again in 1777, three months in Captain Alexander Waugh's company, Colonel Cook's regiment; from January, 1778, five and one half months in Captain Alexander Waugh's company, under Colonels Mead and Adams; from July, 1779, one month in Captain Bryant Stoddard's company; in the summer of 1780, three months in Captain Bradley's company, Colonel Bebee's regiment; in the winter of 1780 and 1781, six weeks as teamster under Captain Barns; summer of 1781, two months in Captain Gillett's company, under Major Strong; from September, 1781, six weeks under Lieutenants Sharp and Short, guarding the coast at New London. He went, November 1, 1781 on board the brig "Jay" commanded by Captain Havens, captured a schooner loaded with provisions, bound from Nova Scotia to New York; this schooner was recaptured by the British and he was taken prisoner and held six weeks at Barren Island, Long Island.
This soldier, John Woodruff, was allowed pension on his application executed, September 17, 1832, at which time he was a resident of Torrington, Litchfield County, Connecticut, where he had lived about thirteen years. He died September 4, 1835.
There are no data in this claim relative to the family of John Woodruff.
Very truly yours
A. D. HIELER Assistant to Administrator

HENRY W. ASHLEY, ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW, 66 ELM STREET.
WESTFIELD, MASS.
Apr 18 th 1894
My Dear Mrs Oldham
I desire to obtain a copy of the papers in the pension case of John Woodruff of Litchfield Litchfield County Conn. He was placed on the pension rolls Oct 4 th 1833, under the act of Congress approved June 7 th 1832. Mr Woodruff was my Gnat Grandf- ather on my Mother's side - he was among the list of Rev.

HENRY W. ASHLEY, ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW, 66 ELM STREET.
WESTFIELD, MASS.,
189
voluntary freedmen - who served two or more years - in the war & were granted a pension under that act - his name is - among the list - in Senate Document - 1st Session - 23rd Congress - 1833 & 1834
I wrote - to the - Commissioner but - thought - perhaps - he had so many applications - for such things - that - I could get - a letter -
for you -
I want - the - Copy - so I can

HENRY W. ASHLEY, ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW, 66 ELM STREET.
WESTFIELD, MASS.,
189
have all the - evidence I can obtain - about his - place of birth - & age - what - battle - he was in - etc. I desire to give - the sons of revolution; I would like to have you see of his - discharge papers are - there also. I under- stand - the - Commissioner - is in - the habit of giving them to relatives - upon call for them. I want - to give the - sons of Revolution There is - nothing new matter - in - end. (over)

Send bill - lower & I will - count -
Yours
Henry N. Ashley
I would like the to I can use the next week
Yrs truly
TO CHIEF OF STAFF ACTION Admiral as requested APR 23 1894 initials
File No. 15792

HENRY W. ASHLEY, ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW, 66 ELM STREET.
WESTFIELD, MASS., April 18 th 189 4
Hon Commissioner of Pensions - Washington - D.C.
Dear Sir;
I desire to obtain evidence - to establish my relationship to my Great Grandfather John Woodruff, of Litchfield County Conn. who was placed on pension roll Oct - 4 th - 1833. His pension came under Act - of Congress - Approved June 7 th 1832.
I desire to obtain date of birth - when born, for what place resided - what - a - he was in: etc. I understand these facts - are contained in his - application for pension: or such records as you department have. (over)

If there is - any charges - for copy - notify - me & I will forward the - same -
Respectfully
Henry W. S. Lee

Mr B P
This Bureau can furnish the military record of only such Revolutionary soldiers as were pensioned or whose widows were pensioned for their services.
Such of the original muster and pay rolls of the Revolutionary war and the war of 1812 as are now in the possession of the Government are on file in the Record and Pension Office, War Department. Original rolls and other records pertaining to service in the Revolutionary war may also be found on file in the archives of many of the original States.
Department of the Interior,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
APR 23 1898 Washington, D. C.
Jan 13 1898
O. W. & N. D. REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Madam:
In reply to your communication of a recent date, you are informed that the courtesy of furnishing information relative to Revolutionary war soldiers, on account of whose service pensions were granted, is extended by this Bureau only to their descendants, and to them only when it is desired for historical or genealogical purposes.
In view of the large number of such inquiries now being made, and of the length of time required to make a proper search of the records in each case, information will not be given to any applicant concerning more than two soldiers.
In order that the claim of the soldier concerning whom you desire information may be identified, it is requested that you furnish as much as possible of the data called for below.
Dear Sir,
I have succeeded in getting the replies complete, I believe, to the following questions.
Very respectfully,
Mrs Charlotte N. Newton 440 Dearborn Ave. Chicago, Ills.
Philip Evans Commissioner.
Full name of soldier,
John Woodruff.
Place of residence before service,
Watertown Conn. (Town, county, and State.)
Place of residence after service,
New Marlboro Mass. Berkshire Co. (Town, county, and State.)
Approximate date of death,
February 16 th 1834, aged 76.
Given name of widow,
Sarah Cole died May 15 th 1838, age 81/400.
Did either the soldier or his widow receive a pension?
Yes, John Woodruff did receive a pension.
Additional information,
Capt John Woodruff died in Hudson New York, from an injury received from falling down stairs.
Signature,
Mrs Charlotte Woodruff Newton (Mrs. or Miss to be prefixed if a lady signs.)
Post-office address,
including street and number, town, county, and State,
440 Dearborn Avenue, Chicago, Illinois.

Savanna, Ills. W
May 28, 1898.
Col. Henry Clay Evans. Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir.
Will you please send me a record of the services of John Woodruff of the State of Connecticut or of Massachusetts, I regret I cannot state definitely which, who

Was a soldier in the Revolutionary War and received a pension for his services.
Enclosed please find stamp.
Awaiting an early reply
Yours very truly,
Marie S. Dupuis.

Watertown, Conn. Mar. 15. 98 P Town Clerk's office - Charlotte Woodruff Newton.
Yours of the 10 th inst. received. In answer to your inquiry, will say that in our "Record of Connecticut men in the War of the Revolution," we find the name of John Woodruff, among the Privates who were discharged in the North- ern Department, Oct. 29 th 1775, he being in the 8 th Company of Continental Regiments.
This is all our records show of him, which is not much - and we are glad to give you this limited information.
Very Respect.
Burton H. Wattoon. Town Clerk. Watertown, Conn.
(Per H. M. S.)

O.W.H.
C
ESTABLISHED 1880
CAPITAL $100,000.00
W. M. Welch Diploma House
LITHOGRAPHERS .: ENGRAVERS .: PRINTERS
LONG DISTANCE PHONE CENTRAL 5595
100 LAKE STREET, CORNER DEARBORN
5-48 Morse Ave
Rogers Pk CHICAGO Ills.
Aug. 29-06
Chief of the Pension Bureau. Washington D.C.
Dear Sir - My great grandfather John Woodruff was a soldier in the Revolutionary War - I was told by his son that he was a prisoner of the War of the Revolution. If so is there some record of it in your Dept? I think he must either form or near Watertown Conn. It seems in order to become a member of the Daughters of the Rev. I need this evidence - Can you supply it if not
U. S. W. & P. DIVISION SEP 4 1906 RECEIVED

ESTABLISHED 1880
CAPITAL $100,000.00
W. M. Welch Diploma House
LITHOGRAPHERS .: ENGRAVERS .: PRINTERS
LONG DISTANCE PHONE CENTRAL 5595
100 LAKE STREET, CORNER DEARBORN
CHICAGO
Will you please inform me, what steps to take to secure this in- formation.
Any help you can give me in getting the facts will be greatly appreciated
Very truly Yours
Frances Welch
(Mrs. W.M.) 548 Morse Ave
Rogers Pk Chicago Ill.

Nov 20 1912 25 Fourth St. Bridgeport Ct.
Commissioner of Pensions.
Wash. D.C.
Dear Sir:-
Can you give me any information of the war record of John Woodruff of Woodbury or Washington Ct. during the Revolutionary War.
Any aid you can give me will be greatly appreciated. Thanking you
I remain
respectfully yours Walter D. Beck

In reply to your request for a statement of the military history of John Woodruff , a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau. S. File 15,721
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     Oct. 76 5 1/2 mos. Pvt. Shubael Griswold Whiding Conn.   Apl. 77 3 " Barnes —   July 77 2 " { Archibald Buel Hooker   3 " { Alexander Waugh Cook   Jany 78 3 " { Alex. Waugh Meal   Apl. 78 2 1/2 " { " " Adams   July 79 1 " Bryant Stoddard —   Comm. 80 3 " Bradley Brett   March 80-81 1 1/2 " Non-com. Barnes —   Comm. 81 2 mos. Gillett May. Strong   Sept 81 11 1/2 mos. { Lieut. Sharp-Shoot and under Capt. Harris on the Brig. "Jay" captured a schooner wh. was retaken by the Brits & capt. was held a prisoner for 6 wks at Barren Island - R.I.  
Battles engaged in, Delancey's Mill + Valentine's Hill.
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Litchfield, Conn.
Date of application for pension, Sept. 17, 1832.  Allowed.
Residence at date of application, Torrington, Litchfield Co., Conn.
Age at date of application, B. Oxford, New Haven Co., Conn. Oct. 5, 1760.
Remarks: _____

December 26, 1933
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
BA-J/AWF
Mr. Charles E. Ellwood 134 Gladstone Road Lansdowne, Pennsylvania
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter of November 7, in which you request the Revolutionary War records of two soldiers, with name John Woodruff of Connecticut, under files W. 16483 and S. 15721, also record of Jonah Woodruff.
There is no claim for pension or bounty land on file, based upon service in the War of the Revolution, of a Jonah Woodruff. The records of the other two soldiers, are given herein as found in the claims for pensions, based upon their service in that war.
John Woodruff-W. 16483
John Woodruff was born September 29, 1757 at Old Milford, Connecticut, names of his parents not given. He moved to Waterbury, Connecticut in 1772.
While residing in said Waterbury, John Woodruff enlisted and served with the Connecticut troops, as follows-
From May, 1775, seven months as private in Captain Phineas Porter's company, Colonel Ward's regiment, and was at the taking of Fort Johns; from March, 1776, two and one half months in Captain Jesse Curtiss' company; from June or July, 1776, three months in Captain Benjamin Richards' company, Colonel Baldwin's regiment; from September, 1777, two months in Captain Benjamin Richards' company, Colonel Baldwin's regiment; from

March or April, 1778, one year as sergeant in Captain Jesse Curtiss' company, Colonel Cook's regiment; from September, 1781, three months in Captain Joseph Guernsey's company.
John Woodruff was allowed pension on his application executed, August 15, 1832, then a resident of New Marlboro, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, having moved there in 1802. He died February 16, 1834 at said New Marlboro.
This soldier, John Woodruff, married in May, 1779, Sarah Cole, the daughter of Thomas Cole, the name of her mother is not shown. They were married by the Reverend Trumbull of Waterbury Parish, Litchfield County, Connecticut.
The widow, Sarah Woodruff, was allowed pension on her application executed, November 13, 1838, then aged eighty years and living in Hudson, Columbia County, New York, with her son, Anor Woodruff. She died May 15, 1839.
The following is a list of the children of John Woodruff and his wife, Sarah-
   John Lewis  born  December  4, 1779     Garret  "  November  18, 1782,  died February 15, 1814    Urial  "  April  16, 1785     Jared  "  August  14, 1789     Thomas  "  April  28, 1792     Elisha  "  May  9, 1795     Anor  "  September  10, 1798     Amos  "  November  7, 1801,  died November 13, 1801    Amos  "  September  14, 1803.    
Samuel Woodruff, brother of this soldier, John Woodruff, was in 1838, seventy-nine years of age and living in Waterbury, Connecticut; he served, with his brother, several tours in the Revolution.
George C. Woodruff was in 1832 Justice of the Peace in Litchfield County, Connecticut; no relationship to the family stated. 

John Woodruff-S.15721
John Woodruff was born October 6, 1760 in Oxford, New Haven County, Connecticut, names of his parents not given; When about twelve years of age, he moved to Litchfield, Connecticut.
While residing in said Litchfield, John Woodruff enlisted and served as a private with the Connecticut troops, as follows-
From October, 1776, five and one half months in Captain Shubael Griswold's company, Colonel Whiting's regiment, was in engagements at Delancey's Mills and Valentine's Hill; soon after, three months in Captain Amos Barns' company; in the summer of 1777, two months in Captain Archibald Buel's company, Colonel Hooker's regiment; again in 1777, three months in Captain Alexander Waugh's company, Colonel Cooke's regiment; from January, 1778, five and one half months in Captain Alexander Waugh's company, under Colonels Mead and Adams; from July, 1779, one month in Captain Bryant Stoddard's company; in the summer of 1780, three months in Captain Bradley's company, Colonel Beebe's regiment; winter of 1780 and 1781, six weeks as teamster under Captain Barns; summer of 1781, two months in Captain Gillet's company under Major Strong; from September, 1781, six weeks under Lieutenants Sharp and Short guarding the coast at New London. On November 1, 1781, he went on board the brig "Jay" commanded by Captain Havens, captured a schooner laden with provisions, bound from Nova Scotia to New York; this schooner was recaptured by the British, and he was held a prisoner for six weeks at Barren Island, Long Island.
This soldier, John Woodruff, was allowed pension on his application executed, September 17, 1832, then a resident of Torrington, Litchfield County, Connecticut, where he had lived about thirteen years. He died September 4, 1835. AB
There are no data in this claim concerning the family of John Woodruff.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

November 25, 1912.
Mr. Walter D. Peck, 25 Fourth Street, Bridgeport, Conn.
Sir:
In response to your letter dated the 20" and received the 21" instant, you are advised that John Woodruff, Sur. File No. 15,721, Rev. War, was allowed pension on his application executed September 17, 1832, at which time he was a resident of Torrington, Litchfield County, Connecticut.
He stated that he was born October 8, 1760, at Oxford, New Haven County, Connecticut, and resided at Litchfield when he enlisted and served in the Connecticut troops as follows:
Enlisted in October 1776, as Private in Captain Shubael Griswold's company, Colonel Whiting's regiment; was in engagements at Delancy's Mills and Valentine's Hill; served five and one half months.
April, 1777, under Captain Barns; three months.
July, 1777, under Captain Archibald Buel, Colonel Hooker, two months, and under Captain Alexander Waugh, Colonel Cooke, three months.
January, 1778, under Captain Alexander Waugh, Colonels Mead and Adams; five and one half months.
July, 1779, under Captain Bryant Stoddard, one month.
Summer of 1780, under

summer of 1780, under Captain Thomas Bradley, Colonel Beebe; three months.
Winter of 1780 and 1781, as Teamster under Captain Barns, two months.
Summer of 1781, under Captain Gillet and Major Strong; two months.
Volunteered September, 1781, and served under Lieuts. Sharp and Short as Guard on shore, and on board the brig "Jay" commanded by Captain Havens, captured a schooner which was retaken by the British, and he was held prisoner for six weeks at Barren Island, Long Island; four and one half months.
There is no family data on file. There is no reference to the towns of Woodbury or Washington, Connecticut, but the above is the only John Woodruff pensioned for service in the Connecticut troops, who resided in Litchfield County, Connecticut.
For the date of last payment of soldier's pension, application should be made to the Auditor of  for the Interior Department, U.S. Treasury Department, citing the following data:
"John Woodruff, Certificate NO. 22,572, issued October 4, 1833, under the Act of June 7, 1832, at the Connecticut Agency".
Very respectfully,
J. H. Haverport Commissioner.

RECORD DIVISION.
Department of the Interior, BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Briefed by L.D.L.
Claim No. _____
Certificate No. _____
Claimant _____
Soldier John Woodruff
Service Conn.
Additional Service Rev. War
No. _____ claim, State records _____, 190____
No claim, combination records _____, 190____
REMARKS:
No claim except I#15721 W#16483  Watbury Co. Conn. Berkshire Co. Mass 1832.

15721 (3-469.)
15721
John Bureau of Pensions.
Application No. _____
Certificate No. _____
NAME OF SOLDIER,
John Woodruff
Co. _____, _____ Reg't _____
INFORMATION DESIRED.
(Pensioned Oct. 4-1833, under act of June 7-1832 severed from comm.)
Paper.
N. H. Nicholson Act. Chief A + N S. Div.

P
15721
INVALID.
File No. 15721
John Woodruff
Br. Rev. Nor
Act: June 7 th 1882
Index: Vol. 1 , Page 46
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Apr. 27/99 Rev. Hugh L. Henry W. Ashley, 66 Elm Westfield, Mass. C
SS,
Apr. 20/01 Mrs Charlotte H. Newton Chicago, Ills.
Miss Marie S. Dupuis Savanna, Ills.
1906 Sept 25. History to Mrs. W. M. Welch
1909 Jan. 8. Hist. to Miss Lucy J. Upson, letter in Ho. File 20 B 15 18/2 dis.
1912 Nov. 25. Walter D. Peck &
1933 Dec 25. Hist. to Chas. E. Ellwood - see his letter no. 16483 Aug
1934 Aug 14. Hist. to Mrs. R. E. Varden - see her letter in John Woodruff No. 16483 Aug

August 14, 1934
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
BA-J/AWF am
Mrs. R. E. Warden Bliss Street, Southmont Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War records of Hugh and John Houston (Huston), both of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and the Revolutionary War records of three soldiers by name of John Woodruff, cited as follows-
1st- private, Litchfield County, Connecticut, pension 1833 2nd- widow, Sarah, pension number, W. 16483 3rd- pension number, S. 15721, Torrington, Connecticut.
The Revolutionary War records of this office fail to show claims for pension on file on account of the Revolutionary War services of either, Hugh or John Houston (Huston), as described by you.
Only two soldier of Connecticut by name of John Woodruff, have been found on the Revolutionary War records of this office. The one of Litchfield County is identical with the one of Torrington.
The records of John Woodruff, W. 16483 and of John Woodruff, S. 15721 , are furnished you herewith.
Very truly yours
A. D. MILLER Assistant to Administrator

Sitcheild (Cont) July 5. 1833.
To The Hon H. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions,
I send again the application of
M r . John Woodruff for a pension; the defects are amended; except that there is still no certificate of the credibility of Gideon Philips, one of the deponents, The reason of omitting that certificate was stated in a former letter. Altho' M r . Philips could not be impeached in a court of Justice, & altho' from the manner of telling his story in this case I do not doubt its correctness; yet I cannot certify him to be fully credible,
Very Respectfully,
your ob t servant
O. S. Seymour

12. 567.
Applications.
[Faint, mirrored handwriting from the reverse side of the page]

I Solomon Harrison of Litchfield, County of Litchfield and State of Connecticut aged 71 years being duly sworn depose and say that I am well acquainted with John Woodruff of Torrington in said County of Litchfield and that I have known him well from my boyhood. In 1776 I enlisted into Capt Shubael Griswold's Compny, Col Whiting's Regt Connecticut State troops to go to Said Pits. Our Compny Officers were Lieuts Mason, & Catten, Ensign Buel. Lieut Col Canfield & Major Beardsley were Officers in our Regt. I well remember that that the aforesaid John Woodruff was a member of the same Compny with me and remained till in the service of the United States till we were discharged on the 1st of April 1777. We were stationed during this tour of service at Said Pits, Oye, New Rochelle, Valentine's Hill, & Delancey's Mills, at which latter place we were attacked by the enemy and lost our clothes, packs &c.
Immediately after our discharge I returned to Litchfield & after remaining six or seven days was drafted in Capt Amos Darns Compny State troops, to go to Peekskill. Our other Officers were Lieut Smith and Ensign Elisha Harrison. Genl McDougal commanded. Major Platt was our Brigade Major. Mr Woodruff was a member of the same Compny with myself and remained with me in the service about three months when we were discharged sometime in the month of July. We were engaged principally in keeping guard, and in small scouting parties.
I returned in July to Litchfield and in 10 or 12 days after my return, I was again drafted to go to Peekskill, in Capt Archibald Buel's Compny, on account of an alarm that the British were burning the villages on the North River. Ephraim Harrison, my father was Lieut, the Ensign's name I do not remember. I do not remember that we were formed into a Regt. We kept guard, & prevented the British

from landing when we could. I saw Brooks burned. Mr Woodruff was a member of the same company with myself and was in the service with me for two months or more. We were in Col Hooker's Regt, Light Col Hills.
In 1878 I was drafted to go to Horse Neck in Capt Alexander Edgell's Company Col Adams Regt Connecticut State troops. Ensign Mark was an officer in our company. Our Lieut's name was not remember was Samuel Harrison. I went in April and remained in the service about three months. We were employed much in scouting parties. We went to Sherwood's Bridge, Dyer's Bridge & White Plains. Mr Woodruff was with me in the same company and remained in the service of the United States the aforesaid period of three months.
Solomon Harrison
sworn to Sept 12 1882.
Sitcheville County of Sitcheville Sept 11th 1882
Then personally appeared Solomon Harrison to me known and who is a credible witness & made solemn oath to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by him in my presence
Subscribed _____
Before me
Origen S. Seymour Justice of the Peace

I Samuel Blakeslee of Litchfield in the County of Litchfield & State of Connecticut aged 72 years being duly sworn depose & say that in the latter part of the summer & early in the fall of 1781 I was for two months a member of Capt Gillet's Company which was during that period stationed at Stratford Conn. I was then & still am well acquainted with Mr. John Woodruff now of Toning-ton Conn. then of Litchfield Conn. & know that said Woodruff served in said Company through the aforesaid period of two months, in the same company to which I belonged. I believe this was in the year 1781 but it might have been in 1780.
In the summer before the aforesaid service at Stratford I was a member of Capt. Curtiss' Company in Col. Buel's Regt. which was then stationed a few miles north of Hare Neck. I do not recollect seeing the said Woodruff at this time I was not then acquainted with him but after a long conversation with said Woodruff I found him acquainted with a great variety of minute particulars which occurred at this time and which he could not know without having served there from which I very believe that said Woodruff did serve in said Regt. during this summer —
From Aug. 11. 1832
Litchfield County Litchfield Aug. 11. 1832
Then personally appeared Samuel Blakeslee to me known and who is a credible Witness & made solemn oath to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by him in my presence subscribed
Before me,
Osgood Seymour Justice of the Peace

David Blakesley

I Gideon Philips of Litchfield town and County State of Connecticut aged 69 years, being duly sworn depose and say, that in November as I believe, 1776 I enlisted into Capt Shubael Griswold's Compy, Col Whiting's Regt Connecticut State troops, to serve till the 1 st of April following. Our Col & other Regimental Officers were Lieut Col Canfield & Major Beardsley. Our Compy Officers were Lieuts Mason & Catlin & Ensign Buel. Our Compy enlisted at different periods, some in Sept, some in Oct & some November. We went first to New Pits where I became acquainted with John Woodruff now of Torrington in Litchfield County aforesaid. He was a member of the same Compy with myself. We went to Rye, New Rochelle, Valentines Hill and to Delancey's Mills. At the latter place we were attacked by the enemy & lost our packs. We were mostly employed in scouting & keeping guard &c. We were discharged about the first of April. Mr Woodruff was with me during the whole of this service. Gideon Philips
Snow Sept 12
Litchfield County ss
Litchfield Sept 12. 1832
Then personally appeared Gideon Phillips & made solemn oath to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by him in my presence subscribed Before me Origen S. Seymour Justice of the Peace

I John Hall of Litchfield Town and County State of Connecticut aged 78 years being duly sworn depose and say that I am well acquainted with John Woodruff of Torrington in said County of Litchfield and was well acquainted with him for many years before the Revolutionary War. In Sept 1777 I was drafted to go to Diskkill in Capt Alexander Waugh's Compy Connecticut State troops. Our troops were divided and the division in which I was placed went down the river under Genl Parsons' command, and in Col Cook's Regt. Mr Woodruff was in the same Compy with myself, and served as a soldier about three months. We staid but a short time in a place, being employed almost constantly in scouting parties. We went nearly to White Plains, but Peekskill was the place of head quarters of the Regt. Mr Woodruff remained there in the service of the United States till we were discharged, which was at Peekskill or Crown Pond, I believe the latter
John Hall
sworn to Sept 12. 1832
Litchfield County ss Litchfield September 12. 1832
Then personally appeared John Hall to me well known & who is a Witness entitled to full credit & made solemn oaths to the truth of the foregoing by him in my presence subscribed
Before me Origen Skrymour Justice of the Peace
3

State of Connecticut p. Office of the Clerk of the County Court for the County of Litchfield
I Frederick Wolcott Clerk of said Court hereby certify that Origen S. Seymour Esq. before whom the foregoing affidavits of Solomon Harrison, Samuel Blakelee, Gideon Harrison Phillips and John Hall appear to have been taken is, and for more than a year last past has been a Justice of the Peace for said County and as such duly authorized to administer oaths, and that the signatures to said affidavits which purport to be his are genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Court this 25 th day of September A.D. 1832
Frederick Wolcott Clerk

State of Connecticut County of Litchfield ss Litchfield July 6 th 1833.
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in & for the said County John Woodruff — of Torrington in County  the of Litchfield, who being duly sworn, deposeth & saith, that by reason of old age, & the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below & in the following grades;
In Capt Griswold's company I was in the actual service of the United States the full period of five & one half months , the particulars of which service, as also of the other services herein after mentioned, are detailed in my declaration made on the 17 th day of September 1832 before the Hon Court of Probate for the District of Litchfield.
In Capt Barnes's company I was in the actual service of the United States, the full period of three months . —
In Capt Buel's & Waugh's companies I was in the actual service of the United States the full period of five months . —
In Capt Waugh's company under Col Adams's command I was in the actual service of the United States the further full period of three months . —
In Capt Waugh's company under Col Adams's command I was in the actual service of the United States the further full period of two months and an half .

In Capt Stoddard's company I was in the actual service of the United States, the full period of one month . —
In Capt Bradley's company I was in the actual service of the United States, the full period of three months . —
In Capt Barnes' company of Teamsters I was in the actual service of the United States, the full period of one & one half months .
In Capt Gillat's company I was in the actual service of the United States, the full period of two months . —
In that service as Volunteer from September 1781 & onward I was in the actual service of the United States the full period of four & one half months . —
On all the occasions aforesaid I served as private . —
In the whole then, for the full period of two years & seven months , I served as a private, & for this service I claim a pension —
Wm Woodruff
Subscribed, & sworn to, on this 5th day of July 1833 at said ditchfuls.
Before me
Origen S. Seymour. Justice of the Peace.
State of Connecticut County of Litchfield July 5. 1833.
I Frederick Wolcott, Clerk of the County Court in & for said County, hereby certify, that Origen S. Seymour Esquire, before whom the foregoing affidavit was made, is & for more than a year last past has been a Justice of the Peace in & for said County & duly qualified to administer oaths. & that the signature above purporting to be his, is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of said Court this 5th day of July 1833.
Frederick Wolcott, Clerk.