Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 2979, Peter Van Deventer, New Jersey

SERVICE
NUMBER
New Jersey
Van Heventer, Peter Mary
N. 2979
CONTENTS

N o 11,926  Pennsylvania  Peter Vandeventer
of Erie Co. in the State of Penn a who was a Lt. H. Capt. in the company command by Captain Porter of the Regt. command by Col. Seely in the V. Jersey Mil. time for 15 months 15 days Capt. 303.28 " " 25 " Lt. 117.61  $420.89
Inscribed on the Roll of Pennsylvania at the rate of 420 Dollars 89 Cents per annum commence on the 14th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12 day of July 1833 and sent T. H. Gill Erie Pa
Arrears to the 14th of March 1833 841.78 Semi-ant. allowance ending 14 Sept. 1833 210.44  $1052.22
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }

12. 110 Peter Vandeventer
Certified -

State of Pennsylvania Erie County ss } On this tenth day of August 1832 personally appeared in open court before the Judges of the court of common Pleas of the county of Erie now sitting being a court of Record, Peter Vandeneuter, a resident of the Township of Conneaut in the county of Erie and State of Pennsylvania aged seventy seven years who being first duly sworn according to laws doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress pas- sed June 17 th 1832
That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as here in stated. That in the month of April in the year 1776 this applicant was then a resident of the town of of Buckimin in the county of Somerset in the State of N Jersey, he entered the service of the United States in the militia as a Lieutenant in the Company com- manded by Capt Nathaniel Porter in the Regi- ment commanded by Col. Frelinghuysen, at the said county of Somerset and State of N Jersey he was stati- oned at Perth Amboy for about six weeks before the British fleet landed. The British fleet landed at Staten Island, he was then stationed at Bergen and Communipaw. He continued in the service at this time for the period of about six weeks months and was then dismissed and went home We were keeping guard and sentry at different places during this time. A few weeks afterwards he was called out again in the same company of which he was like Lieutenant and was station- ed at Newark and at Hackensack for the defence of the Country and was about three mon- ths out on this tour and at the expiration of that time was dismissed and went home again In the winter of 1776 & 1777 he was again called out and stationed at Elizabeth town in N Jersey

for about three months. Capt Coley then commanded the company he was attached to and this applicant was Lieutenant of the company we were then for the defence of the Country against the enemy. At the expiration of that time we were dismissed and went home.
In the month of June 1777. He was again called into Service. He being still Lieutenant in the company commanded (at that time) by Capt Porter in Col Frelinghuyens Regiment; at that time the British army evacuated Brunswick in N Jersey. We were ordered to Boundbrook and Piscataway the British army were on their march to Newbury. At Piscataway we had a fight with the enemy and Capt Porter of our company was taken prisoner and was taken to New York and was not exchanged till the close of the war.
This applicant then took command of it till the close of the war. Col Morgan's Regiment of rifle men were with us in the engagement. We were out on this tour about two months and then again returned home. He remained at home a short time and then was called out in the fall of 1777 after harvest and were stationed at Newark.
I had then the command of the company. We went from Newark to Elizabeth town and were stationed at those places. There were three pickets kept one at Elizabeth town point one at Sealys farm and another at the Long Meadows. I had to go the grand rounds when I was officer of the day continued in the service at this time about six weeks and then went home again.
In the winter of 1777. I was again called out in command of the company and again stationed at Newark; the Militia from several parts of N Jersey were there. Col Seeley commanded us. While there I was several times sent to the Enemy at Staten Island with a flag of truce. One time when I was sent I was detained all night. I was about two months out on this tour of duty and then returned.

home again. In the spring of 1778. I was again called out in Command of the Company and stationed at Newark and Elizabeth town. I believe it was Col Frelinghuysen that commanded at that time - we were then to keep guard in the lines, was out at this time about two months and then went home.
The next time I was called out was in June, 1778 at the time the British evacuated Philadelphia. I was in Command of the Company Col Frelinghuysen commanded the Regiment. The name of our Lieutenant Col was Meadow the Major was M c Daniel.
We were marched to Princeton and from thence to Crosswick's at the draw bridge near the Delaware where I was stationed with my company. Genl Dickerson then commanded the Militia. We had an engagement with the British under Genl Leslie at that place. William Gamble was Briggd Major of our troops at that time. I attach hereto a letter I received from him respecting that affair. After the fight we went on next morning in the rear of the British. The next day was the battle of Monmouth. The weather was very hot, we suffered much from the heat and the British army had stopped up the wells on their way march and we suffered much from the want of water. We were at the battle of Monmouth. Genl Lee commanded at the commencement of the battle. until Genl Washington came up and took the command, we were out about a month on that tour, and then returned home again. I have no doubt that in 1776 and 1777, I was out on duty two thirds of the time on alert keeping guard and other duties.
In September of 1778. I was called out again to Elizabeth town with my company and stationed there. Col Frelinghuysen commanded there at that time - was absent out on this tour of duty about six weeks and then returned home.
In the fall of 1778. there was an alarm that about 40 Tories had collected at one Booresk's in Hunterdon

County and was again called out to go and supress them. We marched to Hunterdon county to a place called Lebanon. The Tories had got word of us and had gone off to the British. I was about three weeks out on this tour and then went home again.
In December 1778. I was again called out with my company and stationed at Newark - was there about six weeks at that time and then went home.
In the Spring of 1779. I was again called out with my company and stationed at Woodbridge and remained there about two months, guarding the lines, and then returned home again. In the same year was again called out and stationed at Salem River - remained there about two months - was several times called out on alarms that year I was living on the lines and was very often called out - many times which are not particularly remembered & related here.
I had a commission which I left with my father when I left home and I have not been able to find it since I have enquired for it.
The commission was for a captaincy and was signed by Governor Livingston of New Jersey.
He has no other documentary evidence in his possession of his services. He now lives very remote from the scene of his services and from those who were acquainted with him at that time and does not know of any person in particular by whom he can prove his services, except Captain Eloy Harrington.
Only Sots who will try to obtain the same other - He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension Roll of any agency of any State.
Sworn and subscribed to And the applicant day and year aforesaid
further saith he was born in Somerset County New Jersey in the year seventeen hundred & fifty five, that he thinks his age was recorded in his father's Bible which was left in his brother's possession in New Jersey -

That he has no commission now on his person & no other written testimony in his power except the letter of William Gamble who was a Brigade Major in the Militia of the Revolution -
That among his present neighbors who can prove his character are the Rev Edm Hart - & John Salsbury Esq - & Rev George Steury -
After the war he removed from New Jersey to Erie County in New York and from there he removed to Conesoh in Erie County Pennsylvania about three years ago, when he still resides -
Now subscribed this 6 August A.D. 1832 in open court
Alvin Shaw Pres
Peter Van Dusen

The court propounded the following interrogatories to the applicant
1 st Where and in what year were you born? 2. Have you any record of your age and if so when is it? 3. Where were you living when called into service? Where have you lived since the revolutionary war and where do you now live? 4. How were you called into service; were you drafted did you volunteer or were you a substitute? and if a substitute for whom? 5. State the names of some of the regular officers who were with the troops where you served such continental and militia regiments as you can recollect and the general circumstances of your service. 6. Did you ever receive a commission; and if so by whom was it given signed and what has become of it 7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighbourhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity and their belief of your services as a soldier of the revolution
P Van Klief

We George Stentz a clergyman residing in Coone at township Erie County and John Salisbury residing in same place hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Peter Van deventer who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be seventy seven years of age; that he is repu- ted and believed in the neighbourhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the revolution and that we concur in that opinion George Stentz Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid John Salisbury Edwin I. Melio Pro-
And the said court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter and the accompanying documents of Mr. Gamble and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department that the above named applicant was a revolution- ary soldier and served as he states. And the court further certifies that it appears to them that George Stentz who has signed the pre- ceding certificate is a clergyman resident in Erie County and that John Salisbury Esq. who has also signed the same is a resident in the same County and is a credible person and that their statement is entitled to credit
Attest
Edwin I. Melio
Henry Shippen Pres d of the Ct.
I Edwin I. Melio clerk of the court of Erie County do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Peter Van deventer for a pension. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of said office this Sixth day of August
1832
Edwin I. Melio Clerk

52107 Philadelphia Pennsylvania
Mary Van Deventer widow of Peter Van Deventer, who was a Lt. Captain in the N Jersey Line
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 420 Dollars 89 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 26 day of April 1841, and sent to
Hon. C. M. Leeds, Ho. of Reps.
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book A Vol. 1 Page 137.

Instructions under the act of 1844 sent 23 July 1844 to W H Towne and, Springfield X Road. Erie Co. Penna.
W H Towne J Thompson Dec 19 '46.
H. A. Billings Nov 5 /53 Hon J. R. Giddings Jany 17/54
State of death not known
Mr 26 Oct 1844

Application of 3344 Mary Van-Dyke Oct 16. 1838
3344
admitted Feb 10th 39. $20.89
died 25 June 1837
Act 7 July 38
Thos. N. Hill Erie Pa

State of Pennsylvania Erie County, ss:
On this Sixteenth day of October in the year one thousand Eight Hundred and thirty Eight personally appeared before me, John Vincent one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas within and for the County of Erie aforesaid, Mary VanDeventer , a resident of the Township of Springfield, in the County of Erie and State of Pennsylvania aforesaid aged Seventy Seven Years (would be Seventy eight on the 15 th day of January 1839) who, being duly sworn, according to law, clothed in her oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed July 8 th 1838, entitled "An act granting half pay and pension to certain widows" That she is the widow of Peter VanDe- venter , late of the said Township of Springfield, deceased, who was a Lieutenant and Captain in the militia and Volun- teers of the State of New Jersey in the war of the Revolution, and served in three campaigns at several periods during the said war, in the State of New Jersey, and was for her said services allowed a Pension by the War Department of the United States, some time in the year 1833, a statement of her services and the proof accompanying the same being set forth in her application for a Pension, which is on file in the Pension Office, the said Peter VanDeventer having been a resident of the said Township of Spring- -field at the time the said Pension was allowed, and his certificate of Pension having been returned to the said office since the time of his decease; to which

application and Petition, reference is respectfully made for proof of his said services - She further declares that she was married to the said Peter VanDevanter on the fourth day of October one thousand Seven hundred and Eighty one at the Town of Baskinridge in the County of Somerset in the State of New Jersey; That her husband the aforesaid Peter VanDevanter died on the twenty fifth day of June 1837; that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the country but the marriage took place previous to the fifth day of January one thousand Seven hundred and ninety four; on the time above stated -
Sworn to and Subscribed on the day and year above written before me; and I, the said John Vincent a judge of the Court of Common Pleas, of the County aforesaid do certify that the said Mary VanDevanter, the above mentioned applicant, current ly being in person, attended the Court - Witness my hand and seal the day and year above written -
her Mary VanDevanter mark
John Vincent Seal

State of Pennsylvania Erie County ss 3
I William Kelley Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas within and for the County of Erie do hereby certify that John Vincent Esquire before whom the foregoing deposition of Mary VanDewenter appears to have been taken is, and at the time of taking
said deposition, was a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas within and for the said County of Erie and that the signature "John Vincent" thereto affixed is in his own proper writing
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court at Erie this 47th day of October A.D. 1838
William Kelley Pro

State of New York Livingston County ss.
Mary Doty of Danville, County of Steuben and State of New York, being duly sworn deponeth and saith that she was seventy years old on the 7 day of November last, that she is the sister of Peter Van Auwerker, who as she now learns, living at Erie in the County of Erie, in the State of Pennsylvania. That during the Revolutionary War, her & that of her Brother residence was, in the Town of Bedminster, in the County of Somerset, Village of Pluckamin in the State of New Jersey. That this deponent, recollects that the aforesaid Peter Van Auwerker was a Lieutenant of Militia in the Town aforesaid, in Captain Nathaniel Porter's Company. That she often during the Revolutionary War prepared provisions & Clothing for him to go into what was called the army, that for a considerable time during the years 1777-1778 & 1779. The said Peter had Command of the Militia Company of Captain Porter's in consequence of the said Nathaniel Porter being taken a Prisoner by the British forces, which were frequently in the neighborhood, & at one time came into the aforesaid Village, at the latter period, the said Peter commanded the Militia Company, for this deponent then

The Company Retreat before the British Army to the Mountain adjoining the said village. That this deponent, understood & believes, that he was a great part of the time, engaged in scouting parties & as this deponent, believes in the service of the Revolutionary war, from the year 1777. until the close of the war. That the said Peter Vanderkate, had the command of an arsenal, in the said village, for which the Stone Church was the building occupied & used therefor. & this deponent further saith that, she knows that he there performed, much service, it being in sight of the house occupied by this deponent. That she was personally known to his guarding & causing the Company under his command to guard the same, & as near as can be recollected, the said Peter had charge of the arsenal, for about one and a half years. and further this deponent saith not. Mary Doty
Subscribed and sworn before me this 17 day of May 1833.
Nisbet Say S d
I do hereby certify that Mary Doty, the person who has subscribed the above affidavit is to me personally known, and that her character for truth and veracity is good & that full faith and credit is due to her statement, & entitled to credit. Given under my hand this 17 day of May 1833. Nisbet Say S d

State of New York
Livingston County } I certify that Ruper Day before whom the preceding affidavit was sworn and whose signature appears to the preceding certificate of credibility was at the date of the same a legally authorized justice of the peace of said County legally And that I am well acquainted with
his hand writing and verily believe his name subscribed to the jurat of the said affidavit and to the said Certificate of credibility is his own proper hand writing & signature
Witness my hand and seal of office this 18th of May 1833.
Chauncy R. Bond Clerk of Livingston County
By. S. G. Heaven Dep Clerk

Dispositions of Amariah Hammond and Eloey Hammond, in } the application of Mary Van Cliefte

I Ely Hammond wife of Amariah Hammond of the Town of Sparta County of Sussex and State of New York was born in Puckahatchie Somerset County State of New Jersey on the 9 day of August 1775 aged 63 years and upwards, that I was the youngest child of Christopher and Mary Vanderveer of Somerset Co New Jersey, That Peter Vanderveer, late of Erie Pa. was my brother and eldest child of said Christopher & Mary. and that Peter was twenty years or upwards older than myself, that so long ago as I recollect my brother Peter and his Wife Mary lived together as man and wife, I have always understood, from my father, Mother & others, that they were married, the they read a family of children as such, that the earliest recollection I have of them as married people was at the birth of their eldest child a daughter, called Ann, as they then lived in the House with my Father, judging from my best recollection, I was then about seven years old which would make said Ann about fifty six years old, their second child named Christopher, aged about 53 or 54 years, third named John some 2 or 3 years younger fourth Michael, who was born at New Town in Tioga Co. N.Y. in the year 1795. a fifth named Marica, some 2 or 3 years younger and Eliza the youngest some 2 or 3 years younger. The said Peter and Mary left New Jersey and removed to the West branch of the Susquehanna in the State of Pa. from thence to New Town Tioga County N.Y. & from thence to Claring in the County of Erie N.Y. where they resided upwards of thirty years. from thence as this respondent had and believes they moved to Erie in Erie Co. Pa. where she heard & believes said Peter died near two years since and left his wife Mary as Widow, that I have understood and believe that my brother Peter was in his life time a United States Pensioner —

all the foregoing I do certify to be correct according to the best of my knowledge and belief and recollection Sparta Dec 8 th 1838.
Sworn and subscribed
before me this 11 day of Decr Eloy Hammond 1838. James Southworth one of the Judges of Livingston County Courts
Amariah Hammond of Sparta in the County of Livingston and State of New York says he is aged sixty five years of age and upwards, that he married Eloy Vandewater in the year 1798— who was the sister of Peter Vandewater, and I became acquainted with said Peter Vandewater and Mary his wife in New Town in the County of Sussex and State of New York in the year 1792 that the said Peter and Mary then had a family of three children, Ann, Christopher and John, aged at that time as I can recollect, the elder 8 or 10 years. Christopher 5 or 6 — & John 2 or 3 years, that said Peter and Mary lived together as man and wife, that he has always understood from the family & others that they were married, that they were a family as such, that from New Town they moved to Clarnes in Erie Co. N.Y. & from thence to Erie in Pa. where said Peter as I have heard and believe died & left a widow— and I hereby concur in all that part of my Wife Statement from 1795 up to the date as above made. Amariah Hammond Sworn and subscribed before me this 11 day, Decr 8 th 1838.
James Southworth one of the Judges of Livingston Co. Courts.

I James Faulkner one of the judges of the court of Common pleas in and for the County of Livingston do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Amariah Hammond, and Eloy his wife, that they are creditable persons and full faith and credit is due to their testimony, as witness,
Spartee Novr 12. 1838.
James Faulkner
STATE OF NEW YORK, } ss. COUNTY OF LIVINGSTON, }
I, WILLIAM H. STANLEY, Clerk of the County of Livingston, do hereby certify, That James Faulkner Esq whose name is subscribed to the certificate of the proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument, and thereon written; was at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, a Judge of County Courts in and for the County aforesaid, dwelling in the said County, commissioned and sworn and duly authorised to take the same. And further, that I am well acquainted with the hand-writing of such Judge and verily believe that the signature to the said certificate of proof or acknowl- edgment is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said County, the
12 th day of November 1838
W H Stanley

Peter Van Deventer, born July 3rd, 1755. Mary Van Deventer, born January 14, 1761.
----- ✓ Anna R. Van Deventer, born March 23, 1785. ✓ Christopher Van Deventer, born July 30, 1788. Maria Van Deventer, born December 19, 1790. ✓ John D. Van Deventer, born October 12, 1793. ✓ Mich'l Van Deventer, born March 30, 1796. ✓ Maria Van Deventer, born January 13, 1799. ✓ Eliza Van Deventer, born April 11, 1802.
----- Maria Wheeler, grand Child, born July 14, 1804. Stephen Cooper, Adopted, born ---5, 1805.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
✓ Maria Van Deventer. departed this life September 26th, 1792. Maria Wheeler departed this life June 14, 1819.
----- Copied by J. V. D. Compared by A. O. S. and J. V. D.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
I certify that the above is a true and correct copy of a Bible Leaf filed in the claim of Mary Van Deventer, widow of Peter Van Deventer, a soldier of the Revolutionary war, the same being returned this day to J. Van Deventer, Knoxville, Tenn., in accordance with the attached affidavit.
J. H. Dalton Chief, O. W. & N. Division.
June 24, 1897.

1210 Peter Vanderwater
19 Feby 1833
Obj. 5- Chz -
wants of P. See letter - April 22 o 1833
P. 259
P. 350
Thomas H. Sill
Essex
Qu
Adm e
Capt. 15 mo 5 days $ 303.28 St. 8 " 25 " 117.61 24 $ 420.89
E
E

BRIEF in the case of  Peter Vandewater , of Cornwall  County of Erie  in the State of Pennsylvania  (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? 77  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.     Entered the service April In 1776 about 6 — Lieutenant Gen. McLaughlin   called out in June weeks afterwards about 3 — " Capt. Muhl. Porter   called out winter 1776-77 about 3 — " same officers   called out May 1777 about 2 — " Capt. C. C. C.   called out Fall 1777 about 1 15 Sergeant Capt. Porter   ditto winter 1777 about 2 — ditto ditto   ditto Spring 1778 about 2 — ditto Col. Seely   ditto June 1778. In what battles was he engaged? about 1 15 ditto Col. McLaughlin   ditto Fall 1778 about 1 15 ditto ditto   Dec. 1778. about 6. weeks - Spring 1779 about 2. weeks  
 6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Pluckemin, Somerset Coy. N. Jersey  7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditional evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? living witnesses & traditional evidence  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.
Chas. B. Wilson Examining Clerk.  15. July 1832

November 26, 1937
XXXXXXXXXXXX
Mrs. Frank Anna Gerhard 215 E. St. John Street Girard, Kansas
BA-J/EBL Peter Vandeventer-W.2979
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War records of Abraham Vandeventer, of Virginia and Peter Vandeventer, of Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania.
There is no claim for pension or bounty land on file based upon the military service in the Revolutionary War of an Abraham Vandeventer. Such claims are the source of the data furnished by this office.
The record has been found of a Peter VanDeventer, who served in the New Jersey troops and applied for pension while residing in Erie County, Pennsylvania. His history is furnished herein as it may be of interest to you.
Peter Vandeventer W.2979
Peter VanDeventer, the son of Christopher and Mary VanDeventer, was born July 3, 1755, in Somerset County, New Jersey. He was the oldest child of his parents.
While residing in Pluckemin, town of Redminster, Somerset County, New Jersey, Peter VanDeventer entered the service in July, 1776, as lieutenant in Captain Nathaniel Porter's Company, Colonel Frelinghuysen's New Jersey Regiment, served in this capacity in said Captain Porter's Company and in Captain Coley's Company, Colonel Frelinghuysen's Regiment until the autumn of 1777, and from the autumn of 1777 until the summer of 1779, as captain in the New Jersey troops, under Colonels Seeley and Frelinghuysen. He stated that he served one year and one month as lieutenant and one year, three months and five days as captain. He served, also, on many short tours and it was stated was in command of the arsenal at Pluckemin for one and one-half years. It was stated
Officer in Alston page 447 as 2nd Lt. not given as capt
Could not find this captain

that the British offered a bounty of five hundred pounds for the head of Captain Peter VanDeventer, "dead or alive."
After the Revolution, Peter VanDeventer moved to the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, in Pennsylvania; thence to Newtown, Tioga County, New York; thence to Clarence, Erie County, New York, where he lived thirty years; thence to Erie County, Pennsylvania.
He was allowed pension on his application executed August 6, 1832, while residing in Conneaut Township, Erie County, Pennsylvania. He signed Peter Van Deventer, was borne on the pension rolls as Peter Vandeventer.
He died in Springfield Township, Erie County, Pennsylvania, June 25, 1837.
Peter VanDeventer married October 4, 1781 or 1782, at Baskingridge, Somerset County, New Jersey, Mary, born January 14, 1761. The place of her birth and names of her parents are not shown.
Mary VanDeventer was allowed pension on her application executed October 16, 1838, while residing in Springfield Township, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Her name was borne on the pension rolls as Van Deventer.
next time A copy of the family record shows the names of the following children: are shown:
   Anna R. Van Deventer . . . . .  born March  23, 1785.    Christopher Van Deventer . . . . .  " July  30, 1788.    Maria Van Deventer. . . . .  " December  19, 1790.    John D. Van Deventer. . . . .  " October  12, 1793.    Mich'l Van Deventer. . . . .  " March  30, 1796.    Maria Van Deventer. . . . .  " January  13, 1799.    Eliza Van Deventer. . . . .  " April  11, 1802.   
The following also appeared, also: Maria Van Deventer departed this life, September 26, 1792. Maria Wheeler departed this life June 14, 1819.
Maria Wheeler, grandchild, born July 14, 1804. Stephen Cooper, Adopted, born ---5, 1805.
In 1833, Peter VanDeventer referred to his brother, then residing in New Jersey but did not give his name. In same year

Mary Doty, a sister of Peter VanDeventer, was living in Dansville, Steuben County, New York, the name of her husband not stated; in 1838, another sister, Eloy or Eloy Hammond, wife of Amariah Hammond, was living in Sparta, Livingston County, New York and stated that she was the youngest child of her parents, Christopher and Mary Van Deventer and that she was born August 9, 1775. Her husband, Amariah Hammond, was aged sixty-five years in 1838. They were married in 1798.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, the name and address of person paid and possibly the date of death of the Revolutionary War pensioner, Mary Van Deventer, widow of Peter Van Deventer(W.2979), you should address The Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, this city, and cite the following data:
Mary Van Deventer, widow of Peter Van Deventer Certificate No.5407 Issued April 26, 1844 Rate, $420.89 per annum Commenced March 4, 1843 Act of March 3, 1843 Pennsylvania(Philadelphia) Agency.
Very truly yours
A.D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

Van Deventer Peter NJ W2919
Peter Van Deventer Eig
Return this

Dear Sir
Washington City Jan y 15. 1875
The object of this letter is to bring to your recollection an occurrence of our revolutionary days.
When the British army evacuated the City of Philadelphia in June 1778, the Militia of New Jersey were stationed at the White House in Burlington County near Trenton. —
General Dickinson Commanded and I was his Brigade Major; information was received that a division of the Enemy, commanded by a Gen t Lashy, consisting of 3000 Men, were marching in a direct line for Trenton. —
I was ordered by the General immediately to select an Officer with a detachment of Volunteers to march without delay to defend the Drawbridge over Crosswicks Creek. —
Instantly rode to your quarters and apprised you of the order, upon which you instantly procured the detachment required and marched them to the place appointed. —
The Enemy at this time had commenced repairing the bridge, by piling the plank from Nits Barn on the opposite side

This party was covered by a heavy fire both from their Artillery and Infantry which was very galling to our small party — It is not for us brave men to boast of their own deeds, yet it may not be boasting to say we defended the bridge, and made the Enemy pay very dear for his visit.
I will briefly state to you what trouble I am about to give you — While we were warmly engaged with the Enemy and near you, I received a Ball in my breast, being at that moment in an oblique attitude it lodged under my right breast and remains so —
When I had the pleasure of seeing you last on my way to Marianna, at your own House, I was rejoiced you recollected me, as well as the subject I have just been describing —
This will be forwarded to you by your Amiable son, indeed I congratulate you in having such a son — My own are all in the service of our Country — What a blessing for Parents to see their Offspring rising into the notice of their fellow Citizens, by a laudable zeal for Character and honor —
I remain dear Sir with much esteem your Ob't humble Serv William Gamble Atkins Can. Sevierville

See reply to it, re pension claim of Wm Gamble - Nf. 8.10722

227 East State Street, Trenton, 1-27-1906.
Esteemed Friend,
May I ask as a favor, if thee will please send me a copy of Family Record of Peter Vande- venter from Somerset Co. N.J. And who died in Erie Co. Pa. in 1837.
Thank thee in advance.
Thy friend,
Anna M. North. 227 East State Street. Trenton, New Jersey.

ow.w 2979.

REVOLUTIONARY SERVICE.
O. W. & N. Div.
MEMORANDUM
Very interesting
Please supply as much as possible of the data called for below.
Full name of soldier:
Peter Van de Venter
Place of residence before service: (Town, county, and State, if possible.)
Place of residence after service: (Town, county, and State, if possible.)
Date of death (as near as possible):
Christian name of widow:
Did either he or his widow receive a pension?
Remarks:
Your name and address:

U. OLD WAR & NAVY APR 25 1896 FILES. P. B.

J. VAN DEVENTER, KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE.
Knoxville Tenn. May 16. '92
Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.
Dear Sir:-
I greatly desire to obtain all the information I can concerning Peter Van Deventer , who was, I believe, a pensioner of the Government for services in the Revolutionary War .
He was from New Jersey. Moved to Erie County, N.Y. about 1802, and to Springfield Ohio, about 1827, or 1828. He probably drew his pension at Buffalo, N.Y. and Springfield, O. -
The facts particularly desired are those which would appear from his application for Pension, & the military services which your records would show.
Very truly Yours
Ward Deventer.
Anne. Anne.

1. V. D. ... KNOXVILLE TENNESSEE
[Faint, mirrored handwritten text, likely bleed-through from the reverse side of the page.]

J. VAN DEVENTER,
KNOXVILLE,
TENNESSEE.
Knoxville. Tenn. April 8, 1897.
Hon. H. Clay Evans Commissioner of Pensions Washington. D. C.
Sir:- Referring to your communication of the 3 rd inst. - "O. W. & N. Division, Revolutionary. Letter mark right hand upper corner L. W. B. W. 2979. you give as authority for the statement of Capt. Peter Van Deventer date of birth, "a leaf from a family Bible" filed with his case - You will confer a very great favor if you will send me a literal copy of this leaf. Whatever charges or expenses may be connected with the copying &c. I will most cheerfully remit. Very Respectfully J. Van Deventer.

OLD WAR & NAVY APR 12 1897 FILES.
[Faint, mirrored handwritten text, likely bleed-through from the reverse side of the page. The text is mostly illegible but appears to be a formal letter.]

1917 Feb. 13. History to Horace Van Deventer and 1937- Nov 26 " Mrs. F. A. Westland. 1938- Sept 13 Mrs. Beckenkamp. To furnish father's Ex. data for another Peter Van D. exhibit- S.A.R.
WIDOW, &c.
No. 2979
Mary Van Deventer Widow
Peter Van Deventer St. v. Cap. Rev. W.
Act: March 3, 1843
Index: Vol. 81. Page 294
[Arrangement of 1870.]

1893 J.
Jan. 9. Hist Van Deventer. Knoxville Tenn.
1893 To abo...
Apr 18 Hist to E. S.
June 24 Horace Wan Knoxville Oct. 24/93 to Knoxville
Mill Hist. to Herules, Box 819, Tenn. St. L. & J. Van Deventer Tenn.
Mch. 6, 1906. History to Annie M. ... History to N.Y. ...
Apr 2 to M
8'96 Sold perus any Desha R.B.
Apr 3. Deventer June 25 to Mr J
1897. Hist. to Mr. J. Van- -Knoxville, Tenn. 97 Bible Leaf returned Van Deventer Knoxville Tenn.

3-893. (Old No. 3-388a.)
ATTORNEYS.
..... Attorney
Residence .....
Other see memoranda on other side
Suspended .....
Restored .....
.....
.....
.....
.....
.....

February 23, 1910. Left at the Interior Dept. (to be copied for Hon. William Vandewater) originals decl. & affts of Aug. 6/32, Mar. 7/33, Widow. decl. & affts. of Oct. 23/43, June 25/37, Aug. 19/43, Oct. 17/38 & July 6/44. Affts of Levi Doty of Aug. 7/32, & Eliza Hammond of Mar. 11/38 & copy of family record, the same to be copied by the Interior Dept. & returned to
March 3/1910 Papers above mentioned returned from Interior Dept. & placed in this packet. Geo. Lander

Mary Vanderent
Peter Vanderent, Pa. act 7 June 1832 to what time paid?
No 3816
Rev. Offin.
Decd 37
Augt 9. 1839.
P. B. at $420.89 - Died 27 June 1837. paid to that time -
Note that *the widow's pension was allowed from June 25 th 1837 which is the date of death as given by her. aw-
J. H. H.

J. VAN DEVENTER,
KNOXVILLE,
TENNESSEE.
Knoxville. Tenn. July 12. 1897
Hon. H. Clay Evans,
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington.
D.C.
Sir:-
I send herewith receipt for the bible leaf mentioned in your esteemed communication of the 25 th ult. The original letter has been retained for the reason mentioned in the receipt which I have endorsed upon a copy of the letter.
Trusting this will be satisfactory
I am.
Very truly Yours
J. Van Deventer.
Of course if you regain the original of your letter, for your file, I will at once return it. W.

3816 Pennsylvania
let: 19 April 1841 Thos H. Sill.
Mary Van Deventer
widow of Peter Van Deventer dec.
who was a pensioner under the Act of 1832
who died on the 25 June 1837
at Erie Pa. in the State of Penn.
who was a Lt & Capt in the commanded
by Captain of the regt  commanded
by Col. Seely in the N. J. militia
line for 15 mths 5 ds - capt
8 " 25 " " Lt.
Inscribed on the Roll of Philadelphia at the rate of 420 Dollars 89 Cents per annum, to commence on the 25th day of June 1837.
Certificate of Pension issued the 8th day of August 1839 - sent to Thos H. Sill Esq. Erie Pa.
Arrears to the 14th of Mar 1839 $ 712.13
Semi-annual allowance ending 4 Sep '39 210.44
$922 57
{ Act July 7, ) 1838. }
Recorded by J. M. Gundy , Clerk, Book A. Vol. 2, Page 168.

Pennsylvania 3816-
Mary Van Deventer - widow of Peter Van Deventer - who was a pensioner under the Act of 7 June '32. and who died on the 25 June - 1837 - of Erie Co in the State of Pennsylvania who was a H: V Capt: in the . . . . . commanded by Captain . . . . . of the Regiment, commanded by Col: Seely - in the N. Jersey - line for 15. mths: Captain 8. mo: 25 days. B:
Inscribed on the Roll of Philadelphia - at the rate of $120 - Dollars 89 - Cents per annum, to commence on the 1th day of March, 1836. & terminating 25 June 1837 -
Certificate of Pension issued the 29th - day of March 1843 - and sent to W. S. Allison Present
Arrears to the 1th of Semi-annual allowance ending
$549.47
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by Wm Stewart Clerk Book A - Vol. 2. Page
Rept. March 30 - '43 New certificate 1843 in this case - see order - on of atty. Genl: - 27 September, 1842
Buck (3 marks) res'd J. R. Miller -

W. 2979
File
The Bible leaf mentioned in the letter, of which within is a true copy, was duly received by me. The original letter has been retained, and this copy substituted, in order that the genuineness of the leaf might be attested thereby. If required I will of course return the original letter.
J. Vandewater,

O. W. & N. Div. Revolutionary.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR., Bureau of Pensions. W a s h i n g t o n, D. C.
J u n e 25 th. 1897.
Sir:-
In compliance with your request I enclose, herewith, a Bible Leaf filed in the Revolutionary War pension claim of Mary, widow of Peter Van Deventer. Kindly acknowledge receipt by an endorsement on the reverse side of this sheet, returning same to this Bureau in the enclosed penalty envelope.
Very respectfully,
(Signed) H. Clay E v a n s, Commissioner.
Mr. J. Van Deventer, Knoxville, Tenn.

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.
L. W. B. W. 2979.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D. C.,
O. W. & N. DIV.
REVOLUTIONARY.
June 25, 1897.
Sir:-
In compliance with your request I enclose, herewith, a Bible Leaf, filed in the Revolutionary war pension claim of Mary, widow of Peter Van Deventer. Kindly acknowledge receipt of same by an endorsement on the reverse side of this sheet.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.
Mr. J. Van Deventer,
Knoxville, Tenn.

LAW OFFICES, KUHN & VAN DEVENTER, KNOXVILLE, TENN.
Knoxville, Tennessee, May 28th, 1897.
Hon. H. Clay Evans,
Commissioner of Pensions,
Washington, D. C.
Sir:-
Your esteemed favor of the 24th inst. received. Pursuant to the directions made therein I herewith enclose an affidavit showing that I am the eldest surviving lineal descendant of the Revolutionary soldier, Peter Van Deventer.
If there are any further conditions that I must comply with before I can obtain possession of leaf from the Family Bible of my grandfather, I will be greatly obliged if you will inform me of them as soon as possible. If the enclosed affidavit is sufficient you will confer me a very great favor if you will send me the leaf in question.
I remain,
Very respectfully,
J. Van Deventer.

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.
D. W. D. W. 2979.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS,
WASHINGTON, D. C.,
O. W. & N. DIV.
REVOLUTIONARY.
May 24, 1897.
Sir:-
Replying to your communication of a recent date, wherein you request a certified copy of the Bible leaf now on file in the claim of Peter Van Deventer, a soldier of the Revolutionary war, you are advised that such a copy, or the original if desired, will be forwarded to you upon receipt of an affidavit showing that you are the eldest, surviving, lineal descendant of the soldier. If you cannot comply with these requirements, such an affidavit from the eldest surviving, lineal descendant of the soldier with an endorsement permitting you to receive the leaf will be accepted.
Very respectfully,
H. Clay Evans Commissioner.
Mr. J. Van Deventer,
Knoxville, Tenn.

September 12, 1938.
Mrs. Frank Anna Gerhard 215 East St. John Street Girard, Kansas.
BA-J/ILL Am
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War records of John Downing, Captain Timothy Downing, Patrick Frakes and Robert Frakes, all of Washington County, Pennsylvania, also, information in regard to Abraham and Peter VanDeventer, from Virginia or Pennsylvania.
A search of the Revolutionary War records of this office has been made in your behalf and no claim for pension or bounty land found based upon service of a John Downing who served from Pennsylvania, nor of any Timothy Downing, Patrick Frakes or Robert Frakes; similar spellings of the surnames were used in the search of the records.
As stated in a letter from this office dated November 26, 1937, at which time the Revolutionary War record of Peter Van Deventer-W. 2979 -was furnished you, there is no claim for pension or bounty land on file based upon service of any Abraham Van Deventer. In order to identify the record of any other Peter Van Deventer, it is essential that you furnish the approximate dates of his birth and death, also, his residence at the time of enlistment and after his service in the Revolutionary War. Upon receipt of additional data, another search of the Revolutionary War records will be made.
Very truly yours,
A. D. MILLER, Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

OW Rev. War Section.
February 12, 1917.
Mr. Horace Van Deventer, 201 Van Deventer Building, Knoxville, Tenn.
Sir:
In reply to your letter of the thirty-first ultimo, you are advised that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, Widow File No. 2,879, it appears that Peter Van Deventer, the son of Mary and Christopher Van Deventer, was born July 3, 1755, in Somerset Co. New Jersey. While living in Pluckemin, Somerset Co. New Jersey, he entered the New Jersey Militia, and served for one year and one month, from April 1776 to the autumn of 1777, as Lieutenant, under Captains Nathaniel Porter and Goley in Col. Frelinghuysen's Regiment and for one year and three months between the autumn of 1777 and the summer of 1779, as Captain, in Colonels Seeley and Frelinghuysen's Regiments. He was in the battles at Piscataway, Crosswick Creek and Monmouth.
He was allowed pension on his application executed August 6, 1832, while living in Conneaut Township, Erie Co. Penn. and he died June 25, 1837.
He married at Baskenridge, Somerset Co. New Jersey, Oct. 4, 1781 or 1782, Mary (surname not stated) who was born Jan. 14, 1761. She was allowed pension on her application executed Oct. 16, 1832, while living at Springfield, Erie Co. Penn. Their children were:
Ann or Anna R.-born Mar. 23, 1785.
Christopher,---born July 30, 1788.
Maria,-----born Dec. 19, 1790, died Sept. 26, 1792.
John D.-----born Oct. 12, 1793.
Michael,-----born Mar. 30, 1796.
Maria,-----born Jan. 13, 1799.
Eliza,-----born Apr. 11, 1802.
A grandchild (names of parents not stated) Maria Wheeler was born July 14, 1804, and died June 14, 1819.
Very respectfully,
M. Salzbauer Commissioner.

Cirard, Kansas. August 9, 1938.
Veterans Administration Washington, D.C.
Gentlemen:
no I am asking if you can give me any data concerning the Revolutionary War record of Patrick Frakes, who served from the State of Pennsylvania, possibly from Washington County. Or of Robert Frakes, later date, Washington, Co. Pa.
Pa no Also of John Downing, Washington County Militia, 3rd Battalion. and Captain Timothy Downing, 3rd Battalion Washington County Militia, 1783. Pennsylvania.
And likewise, is there a record of Revolutionary War service for Abraham Vandeventer, , Virginia (or Tenn.)
Has Peter VanDeventer, a record for Revolutionary War service, from Virginia or Pennsylvania.
I would appreciate very much any information concerning the above, as I am trying to establish their definite identity and Revolutionary War service, required for membership in the Daughters of The American Revolution.
I am respectfully yours,
end Frank Anna Gerhard
Mrs Frank Anna Gerhard, Girard, Kansas.
215 E St John Street.

Girard, Kansas. November 13, 1937
The VETERANS ADMINISTRATION, Washington, D.C.
Dear sir, -
I am writing for information concerning the possible Revolutionary War record, of one ABRAHAM VANDEVENTER, of Virginia.
C. J. u. P. 752 692 P. Pa
Also, of PETER VANDEVENTER, of Huntingdon County, Pa.
If these men have a Revolutionary War record, I wish to get them established for use in proving eligibility in the organization of the D.A.R.
Thanking you in advance I am respectfully,
Frank Anna Gerhard (Mrs Frank Anna Gerhard) 315 E St John St., Girard, Kansas.

Recd Sec. m
HORACE VANDEVENTER ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW 201 202 VANDEVENTER BUILDING KNOXVILLE, TENN.
Knoxville, Tenn. January 31" 1917.
Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Sir:- I have the honor to request to be furnished with a copy of record of application for, and action of Government thereon, pension by Peter VanDeventer, Ensign First Battalion, Second Establishment, "Jersey Line" Continental Army, War of Revolution.
I am informed that said Peter VanDeventer-my great grandfather- was granted a pension for his services in the Revolutionary War and desire to secure a copy of his application if possible, that the exact extent of his services may be determined, together with the action of the Government on said application that the record may be complete.
Any charges for these copies, if any, will be remitted upon receipt of information of the amount due. I have the honor to remain
Very respectfully
Horace Van Deventer H

Vandeventer
MEMPHIS, TENN. OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF THE GENERAL LAND OFFICE WASHINGTON, D.C.
16-229

TILLMAN & VAN DEVENTER, LAWYERS, KNOXVILLE, TENN.
Knoxville, Tenn. Sept. 22 nd 1900
Hon. M. Clay Evans, Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D. C.
Sir:- I have the honor to request to be furnished with a certified copy of the military records of the following named officers, as the same are shown from the records in your office, to wit:-
✓ 1. Peter VanDeventer, Revolutionary soldier from New Jersey. ✗ 2. Christopher VanDeventer, served in the War of 1812, and was afterwards chief clerk in the War Department. 3. James Thayer VanDeventer, Captain and Commissary of Subsistence and afterwards Colonel in Civil War. ✓ 4. Eugene VanDeventer, who was a volunteer officer in Mexican War.
Very respectfully
Horace VanDeventer

J. VAN DEVENTER.
KNOXVILLE,
TENNESSEE.
105-2979 Knoxville, Tenn. March 18, 1897.
To Hon. Commissioner Pensions, Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:-
In a letter from your Bureau dated June 23, 1894 to Horace VanDeventer, bearing in left hand corner
O. W. & N. Div.
P. B.
M. E. C.
Relative to the military history of Capt. Peter VanDeventer a Revolutionary Pensioner , you give date of his application for pension as August 6, 1832, and his age at that time 77 years. This would make date of birth in 1755.
A subsequent letter bearing same office marks, to myself dated Oct. 24, 95 gives the same date of application, but states that he was born in Somerset County, N. J. July 5, 1755.
In certain genealogical researches which I am making, the date of birth becomes quite important. I have therefore to request if you will now ascertain if the date July 5, 1755 in your last letter was not meant for 1755, making it correspond with the former one.
I would also be much obliged if you would inform me of the source from which the date is obtained, whether from application of the widow or the soldier himself.
Yours truly,
J. Van Deventer

J. VAN DEVENTER, KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE.
Knoxville, Tenn. Oct., 8th '95.
Hon. WM. Lochren, U.S. Com. of Pensions. Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:-
Referring to your letter of June 23th 1894 to my son Hugh VanDeventer, giving the military history of my grandfather Peter VanDeventer, an officer in the Revolutionary army and also in the Revolutionary war, you say "he was discharged finally sometime during the year 1779."
Can you give me the date of his entry into the service and also the date of his discharge, as I desire to establish his length of service as a Revolutionary soldier.
I have thought his application for pension might enable me to ascertain these facts definitely.
Yours very truly,
J. Van Deventer.

HORACE VAN DEVENTER, ATTORNEY.
P. O. Box 814.
Dictated.
KNOXVILLE, TENN., June 11 th 189 4
Hon. Commissioner of Pensions Washington, D.C.
Sir:- Will you kindly oblige me by sending to my address in this City a full and complete transcript under seal of the military record of Peter Van Deventer of Monmouth or Somerset County New Jersey in the War of the Revolution or War for the Independence of the Colonies as the said record appears in the archives of the Bureau of Pensions. As appears from data which I have at hand said Peter Van Deventer went into the service of the State of New Jersey some time in April 1776 either as a private or as a Second Lieutenant of Captain Nathaniel Porters Company, First Battalion Somerset County New Jersey Militia and after wards became Captain of that Company in 1777 and remained so until 1779. I believe that he began to draw a pension in 1832 under the Acts of Congress of that year and continued to draw the same up to his death in 1837. I will cheerfully pay all charges which may be incurred in making this investigation either for time or trouble. I remain
Very Respectfully,
Your most obedient servant.
Horace Van Deventer

AN Aug 12. 1834
hi Can you in accordance with your promise transmit to me the proofs alluded to in the accompanying letter? of the Billings Very respectfully M. G. Chapman
Hon L. P. Waldo } Clerk of Pension } 3

Commissioner of Pensions
Conneautville Crawford County
Penna Oct 29 th 1853,
Dear Sir
I have for the last two years presented for others numerous applications to the Department for Wounty Land so studiously avoiding enquiries of a private nature and if there were any other possible, though less practicable channel through which to obtain the information desired I would gladly refrain from taxing your patience at this time. If, from the following statement of facts, you think proper to reply, the favor, though I may never have the pleasure to repay, will be very thankfully recd.
Some time in 1852 I became interested for the Heirs of Capt. Peter Vandewater in the prosecution of a claim for Revolutionary services rendered the United-States by him and for that purpose, executed and forwarded to Mr. J. Neely Esq. of your City, the necessary papers to bring said Claim properly before you, or at least to enable him to give it an examination. Mr. Neely, though an active correspondent upon all other and similar subjects after full assurances of remuneration in this, has been profoundly silent. This has somewhat surprised the Heir as well as Myself and I have consented to write you; if said Claim has been presented, - by whom - what information has been given & to whom and what vouchers have been filed in the case, I hope you will not deem it inexpedient to give some information on this subject. Very respectfully your obed servt H. A. Billings

Letter to J. L. Edwards Esq. Nov 19. 1838 application of Mary Van Dorn for a Pension

Quincy, Nov r 20 th 1838
Sir,
I herewith transmit to you the application of Mary Van Devanter of Springfield Vermont Esq r for a Pension — The services of her late husband Peter Van Devanter, de d late of the same place, are fully set forth and proved, in his application for a Pension, now on file in the Dept — The time of his death is also fully proved, in the application of the widow Mary Van Devanter for the amount of his Pension remaining due, at the time of his decease, on which occasion his Pension also was forwarded to the Pension Office and filed there — These circumstances, I presume supply the want of much testimony which might, otherwise have been necessary — Accompanying the application of Mrs Van Devanter I also herewith send the deposition of Amariah Hammond; and Esq r Hammond of Bennington in the State of New York, which with the documentary evidence, now in possession of the Pension office, I hope may prove sufficient — It is respectfully requested that an answer to the above application may be forwarded to me, as soon as is convenient.
I am
very respectfully
Your most obedt Servt
Thos. H. Sice
J. L. Edmond Esq Comm r of Pensions }

Bri, Penn a April 28 th 1839
Sir,
The enclosed Papers are forwarded in compliance with your Letter requesting the Family records to be exhibited in the case of the Pension application of Mrs Mary Van derwerken, the widow of Peter Van derwerken deceased.
I am
very respectfully
Your most obedt Servt
Thomas H. Sill

Springfield Road Aug 19
[Scribbled signature]
Rev. J. Edwards Commissioner of Revenue Washington City
pa Mar 3 rd 1843 Mary Brennan
Aug 25 43 M
5443

Springfield Erie County Aug 19 1823 Mr J. L. Edwards
Sir by act of Congress of last Session the widows of Pensioners is to receive one year more pension - I send you herewith an affidavit of the widow of an old Revolutionary pensioner who in his will left me guardian to his widow and other heirs - if there is any other fact necessary to be stated in order to obtain the certificate please to let us know - and if this is sufficient to obtain the certificate send it to me at Springfield + Roads Erie County Penn a
With Respect
J. R. Miller

W. Reed Esq.
Sir at the request of Mrs Mary Van Derintie. Widow of the late Peter Van Derintie Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States, I write You Soliciting Your assistance in obtaining a Certificate from the Pension office to enable her to receive the benefit of the Law passed last Session of Congress extending the Pension to the Widows of our Revolutionary Officers for One Year Judge Hutchinson made out the Papers last July they were returned once for Correction. It is necessary that she should have a Certificate issued by the Secretary of War signed by the Commissioner of Pensions. Will You be so kind as render her what assistance You can and write me and very much oblige E. Springfield 22 Feby 1844 W. H. Townshend
Answered & to be attested to
NO 3816. Mary Van Derintie
Ms. A. 9. 2. 24

Washington City Apr 25-1844
Col. Edward the
Please examine the facts in relation to the claim of Mary Vandemeter the widow of Peter Vandemeter a Revolutionary pension mentioned in the enclosed letter - please inform me what the facts are and what is necessary to be done and return the enclosed letter at your earliest convenience Yours with sentry of Esteem Chas. Read

War Department Pension Office April 22 o 1833.
Sir
The papers in the case of Peter Vanderwerker have been again examined, and are herewith enclosed to You. The credibility of the witness whose deposition has been taken, must be certified, and the applicant should procure the evidence of the other person, named in his declaration, all the direct proof within his reach must be produced, -
I am respectfully Your Ob t Servt J. L. Edwards
J. H. Sill Esqr
Eric Pa

Erie County ss St. of Pennsylvania
Personally appeared before me one of the Justices of the Peace in and for said County Mary Van Vandeventer and being duly sworn deponeth & saith that she is the Wid- ow of the late Peter Vandeventer deceased that she was married to him in the year A.D. 1782 as she believes and had lived with him untill his late demise; that the remains of the Family Record is the original kept the Family Bible that  the  original  kept  the  Family  Bible That the Record of their Marriage is missing or cannot be found that she is the Identical Person say Widow of the late Right Peter Van- Deventer and Pennsylvanian and further more she saith not sworn and subscribed to before me this 20 day of April in the year of our Lord A.D. 1839 by offering her oath. A. Ryan J.P. Mary Van Vandeventer Mark
Erie County ss } I James C Marshall Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of Erie County do certify A Ryan Esq before whom the above the above deposition was taken and who hath so certified in his proper hand writing to me well known was at the time and is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn to whose official acts full faith and credit are due In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of said Court at Erie this 29 th day of April A.D. 1839 James C Marshall Pro-

Springfield Road Pa Oct 25
HF
Oct 30 1823
Hon J. L. Lawana Conf. Pension Washington
Mr. J. L. Lawana aff. to Wm. Lawrence pa
540

State of Penn la Erie County ss
Before me the Subscriber one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of said County Personally came Mary Vanderventer and made oath in due form of law that She is the Widow of Peter Vanderventer who was a Lieu- tenant & Captain in the Revolutionary war and died the 25 day of June 1837 was intitled to receive a pens- ion of Four Hundred and twenty dollars & eighty nine cents per annum under the act of July 7 th 1838 — and that She has not intermarried but Still remains the widow of of the said Peter Vanderventer all of which statements the truth of which I am fully Satisfied
Sworn and Subscribed before me this 23 rd day of October A.D. 1843 Miron Hutchinson Associate Judge
for Mary Vanderventer mark.

J L Edwards Esq
We Sir we send the enclosed affidavit of Mrs Van Dorn for the purpose of obtaining a Certificate if you will please give it your personal and immediate attention you will confer a great favor on the Old Lady whose health is very ill and in no position circumstances - if there should be any thing wrong in the affidavit will you please write her immediately and confer a favor on your truly
Thos R Miller Gumawa

State of Pennsylvania
On this day personally appeared before me the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County of Erie, Peter Van Deusen, a resident of the Township of Conneaut in the said County of Erie, who being duly sworn, deposes 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 one year and one month, I served as a Lieutenant; For one year, three months, and five days I served as a Captain; and for such service I claim a Pension —
Sworn and subscribed Peter Van Deusen this Seventh day of March 1833 —
Before me —
Ebenezer D. Garrison

State of Pennsylvania ss. Erie County
I, Ethan White, Notary Public of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Erie. Do hereby certify that Ebenezer D. Garrison Esquire before whom the within deposition was taken, was at the time of the same in acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn; In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal of office this Seventh day of March 1833.
Ethan White Pro

OLD WAR & NAVY JUN 2 1897 FILES.

O. W. & N. Division. Revolutionary.
L. W. B. W. 2979.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. BUREAU OF PENSIONS. Washington, D. C.
STATE OF TENNESSEE : County of Knox : AFFIDAVIT OF JAMES VAN DEVENTER.
In the matter of the Application of said James Van Deventer for a Leaf from the Family Bible, filed with the application for a pension by Peter Van Deventer.
James Van Deventer being duly sworn says that he is a resident of Knoxville, Tennessee; is sixty-six years of age and has retired from business, and that he makes the following statement to the best of his knowledge, information and belief:-
That he is the eldest surviving son of Christopher Van Deventer who was the eldest son of Peter Van Deventer who appears from the records of the United States Pension Bureau to have been a pensioner of the Revolutionary War; that so far as affiant knows, or has been able to ascertain, he is the eldest surviving lineal descendant of the soldier, Peter Van Deventer, inasmuch as all his elder brothers and half brothers, sons of said Christopher Van Deventer, are now dead, and left no male issue.
And further this affiant saith not.
James Van Deventer
Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 28 th day of May 1897.
Anna Van Deventer
Notary Public, Knox County. Commission Expires 1898.

1841 Brie, Peme e April 13 th
Sir,
I take the liberty of requesting from you, information respecting the act of Congress of July 7 th 1838, allowing Pensions to certain widows, and, although there are several cases of the same kind, will instance that of Mary Van Devanter, widow of Peter Van Devanter.
Her Pension was granted the 8 th of Aug t 1839. Her husband died on the 27 th of June 1837, as appears by her Pension certificate. In drawing her Pension, she drew from the 25 th of June 1837, the time of her husband's death, at which time, it appears by the certificate, it should commence, and has drawn, from that time, until the 5 th of March last, and on making application for it, at that time, I understand she is required to surrender her Pension. Do the Pension then to cease?
If so, she will have drawn only about three years and nine months, instead of five years. The act of Congress seems to divide that the widow shall receive her Pension "for and during the term of five years from the 5 th of March 1836" — If the Pension ceases on the 5 th of March 1841, it would leave in arrear and unpaid, that part of the Pension which would accrue from the 5 th of March 1836 to the 25 th June 1837, the time from which she began to draw. Is she entitled to receive this amount, in order to make up the five years? If so, how is it to be drawn after the surrender of the Pension? or is her pension to cease on the 5 th of March 1841? — While you have the goodness to inform me, as there are several widows, here who are Pensioners, and, are in a similar situation with myself.
I. L. Edwards for Com te Pensioners Yours obed t Serv t M rs M ary Van Devanter

Sauvlee May 22 d 1833.
Thomas Moore Esq.
Sir.
I am directed by Mr. Peter Van Dorn to enclose you the enclosed papers, in his letter of the 5 inst. — Mr. Van Dorn's wife, wanted, his sister Eliza, Affidavit, she was as she says too young to recollect any of his services in the Revolutionary War — & all she could say would be hearsay — Please give my respects to Mr. V. & his family & say to him his family connections, in this country are in their usual health —
Very respectfully,
Your V. Servt.
Amariah Hammond

State of New York Livingston County ss
Levi Doty of the town of Dansville County of Steuben and State of New York, being duly sworn deponeth and saith that he this deponent was seventy nine years of age the seventeenth day of May now last past that this deponent was well acquainted with Peter Vanderent during the Revolutionary war. that he resided in Sum- -sett County New Jersey that the said Peter Vanderent was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the militia in a company commanded by Nathan l Porter in Col. Freelinghouse n Reg t that sometime in the year sixteen hundred and seventy eight as near as this deponent can recollect Capt Porter was taken a Prisoner at the battle of Monmouth from that time untill near or at the close of the war. the said Peter Van- -derent commanded the said company and this deponent further saith that he was a private Soldier and served in said company commanded by the said Peter Vanderent from some time in the year above stated until the company were discharged. at or near the close of the war. and this de- -ponent further saith that it was reported and believed in Sum- -mersett County New Jersey where this deponent and also the said Peter Vanderent then were, that the British officers had offered a bounty of five hundred pounds for the head of the said Vanderent dead or alive Levi Doty Subscribed and sworn to before me this 8 th day of August A D 1832
Rupel Day J.P.
State of New York
Livingston County ss I certify that Rupel Day Esq. before whom the preceding affidavit purports to have been sworn was at the time the same pur- -ports to have been taken a justice of the peace in & for said county legally authorized to administer oaths And that I am well acquainted with the said justices hand writing and verily believe that his name as subscribed to said affidavit is his own proper hand writing & signature Witness my hand & Seal Chauncy A. Lord clerk of Livingston County by J. D. Haverbush of office this 11 th day of Aug. 1832.

I Russell Day the justice of peace within, do hereby certify that Levi Doty the maker of the within affidavit is to me personally known, and that his character for truth and veracity is good, & that full credit is due to his statements, and that his general character is good.
Given under my hand at Danville this 17 day of May A.D. 1833.
Russell Day
State of New York
Livingston County
I Chauncy R. Bond Clerk of said county certify that Russell Day whose signature appears to the above certificate of credibility was at the date of said certificate a legally authorized justice of the peace of said county. And that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of such justice and verily believe his name so subscribed to said certificate is his own proper hand writing & signature. Witness my hand and seal of office this 18th of May 1833
C. R. Bond Clerk
By. S. G. Thayer Deputy

J. L. Edwards Esq. Conway Parish (Washington City)

Cire, Penn ce May 27. 1833-
Sir;
Your Letter of the 2 nd of Ap r il last together with the papers accompanying the Original application of Peter Vandervoort has duly recd.
Those papers are herewith returned, with the defects therein supplied as near as circumstances will admit. The credibility of the Witness, Sir Doty is certified to - and the testimony of an additional Witness, (Mary Doty) is also obtained and herewith forwarded -
I also enclose the Letter of Amariah Cummings Esq r of Danville (N.Y.) stating the reason why the deposition of Elias H. Dunning, could not be obtained, the being too young to recollect the series of transactions - his personal knowledge and observation -
It is hoped that the papers will now prove satisfactory to the Department, Man being the usual traditional evidence, the Letter of Major Williams - General, and the printed testimony of true living and credible witnesses -
It is respectfully requested that the answer be returned to me as soon as is convenient -
I am, very respectfully
Your obedient
Thomas H. Sill
L. L. Edwards Esq r Caring Officer.

Mary Vandeventer Penn a
Arrears. At 7-July 38 420.89 from 4 March '36 to 27 June '37
W m William S. Allison Esq o George town D. b
W. S. Allison Mar 23 '43 Pres t

State of Pennsylvania Erie County ss B B
Before me the subscriber one of the Justices of the peace in and for the County aforesaid personally came Mary Vandervanter and made oath in due form of law and saith that she is the widow of Peter Vanderventer deceased that she has not intermarried but still remains the widow of the said Peter Vanderventer deceased and that she received a Pension at the rate of Four Hundred and twenty dollars & eighty seven cents per annum under an act of the Seventh July 1838 from the period of her said Husbands death to the fourth of March 1841 and that she now claims the arrears from the 4 th of March 1836 to the 25 of June 1837 at which time her said Husband died
Mary Vanderventer
Sworn and Subscribed before me this 10 th day of March AD 1843
J. R. Miller Justice
I do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the above named Mary Vanderventer and know her to be the widow of Peter Vanderventer deceased and that she is now in a very weakly and helpless situation and needs all arrears that may be coming to her from under my hand at Springfield this 10 th March AD 1843
J. R. Miller
State of Pennsylvania Erie County ss
I Wilson King Prothonotary of the Courts of Common Pleas and District Court in and for the County and State aforesaid do hereby certify that J. R. Miller is a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified, and to all whom official acts as such full faith and credit are due. And further

that the signature "J. P. Miller" above written, purporting to be his is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of the Com. of Common Pleas for said County this 15 th day of March A.D. 1843
Wilson King
Prothonotary

3445 April 23 1844
On Mary Van Devanter March 1843
# 420 89
Home to M. Reed Home of Reps

State of Penn as Erie County ss
Before me the subscriber one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas and quarter sessions of said County personally appeared Mary Vanderventer and on her solemn oath deposed and saith that she is the widow of Peter Vanderventer who was a Lieut and Captain and pensioner act 7 th June 1832 and died on the 25 th day of June 1837 and was intitled to receive a pension of four hundred and twenty dollars & eighty nine cents per annum and that she as the widow of the late Peter Vanderventer received Pension from the 25 th day of June 1837 till the 11 th day of March 1841 — and that she has not intermarried but still remains the widow of the late Peter Vanderventer and that she now resides in the township of Springfield County of Erie and State of Pennsylvania to all which statements I am fully satisfied.
Sworn and Subscribed Before me this 19 th day of August A.D. 1843
Miron Hutchinson Associate Judge
And further I certify that with the above named Mary Van Deventer Widow of the late Peter Van Deventer deceased I am personally acquainted Springfield 15. Dec. 1823
Miron Hutchinson Associate Judge
Direct to P. R. Miller Springfield & Roads En Co Penn

Hon J. L. Edwards
Plan sent to W. H. Townsend Springfield & Roads En Co Penna and very much obliged Yours truly
W. H. Townsend

Spangfield V.R.R. July 18
18 3/4
Col. J. S. Edwards
Com. Pennon Washington City
July 23
June 17 44
Mary Vandewater
100

State of Pennsylvania Erie County ss
Be it known that before me Miron Hutchinson one of the associate judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Erie aforesaid personally appeared Mary Vander- water widow of Peter Vanderwater deceased, and made oath in due form of law, that she is the identical person named in two certificates, which have been returned to the near office of the Uni- ted States, that her said husband Peter Vanderwa- ter at his death was receiving a pension from the government of the United States of four hundred & twenty dollars & eighty nine cents, that since his death, she has received a pension, as the widow of said Peter Vanderwater in pursuance of the acts of Congress and that she now claims a pension in conse- quence of the extension of said acts of Congress that she still remains the widow of the said Peter Vanderwater not having married since his death that she now resides in the township of Springfield Erie County & State of Pennsylvania and have resided in said township for the space of fifteen years, and previous thereto she resided in the State of New York To the truth of which statements I am fully satisfied. I Sworn and subscribed { her before me this sixth day { Mary Vanderwater of July A.D. 1844 { Mark Miron Hutchinson Associate Judge
Attest E. M. Wheeler

Commonwealth of Penn a } I Wilson King Prothonotary of Erie County } the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County do certify That Merin Hutchinson Esqr. before whom the within proceedings were had was at the date thereof and now is an associate Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County duly commissioned and qualified to all where official acts as such full faith and credit are due & further that the written signature "Merin Hutchinson associate Judge" thereto affixed purporting to be his is genuine. Witness my hand and the Seal of said Court at Erie this 16 th day of July 1846. Wilson King Proth a