Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 6941, for George Martin, Virginia

SERVICE
NUMBER
Va
Martin, George Elizabeth
R 6941
CONTENTS
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State of Virginia Corporation of Lynchburg To wit
On this 2 nd day of December 1833 personally appeared in open court before the Hastings Court of the Corporation aforesaid now sitting George Martin a resident of said Corporation in the County of Campbell and State of Virginia aged seventy years on the fourteenth day of October last 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 the seventh day of June 1832.
That he was born in the County of Orange in the State of Virginia on the 14 th day of October in the year 1763 as he has always understood from his Parents there being now no vestiges of his birth in existence that he knows of. That he removed from said County of Orange to the County of Albemarle in the same State where he lived about fourteen years and then removed to the County of Campbell where he has chiefly resided ever since being about thirty years.
That he served the United States at two different periods during the War of the Revolution under the following named officers as is herein after stated.
In the year 1778 as well as he remembers he became the substitute of a certain William Moore of said County of Orange and served as such in a detachment of Virginia Militia which was drafted for the purpose of guarding some of the British Troops who surrendered as prisoners at the time of Burgoyne's Capitulation. This detachment rendezvoused at the Court House of said County of Orange where the declarant joined it and was marched from thence to the County of Augusta as well as he remembers. He being then but about fifteen or sixteen years of age. They there met the prisoners whom they guarded to the County of Albemarle where the detachment continued to serve fully three months if not longer at the Barracks assigned to the prisoners. This declarant served as the substitute of said Moore his full term, at the end of which he received his regular discharge, whether it was written he does not now remember if it was, it is either lost or mislaid. The Company in which he performed this tour of service was commanded by Capt Benjamin Johnson. He does not distinctly remember the names of the field officers of

of this detachment, but thinks his regiment was commanded by a Col: Crockett.
In the month of March in the year One thousand seven hundred and eighty One he enlisted under Major Richard Claiborne who was at that time assistant Quarter Master General for the Continental department in the state of Virginia, as an express rider, and continued to serve in that capacity, until the latter part of October in that year, nearly eight months, his pay during this term of service was five shillings per day, he riding his own horse, his services during this tour consisted in riding express from Richmond to various points in the state of Virginia as Staunton, Charlottesville and many other places, - Late in the month of October 1781, a few days after the surrender of the British Army at Yorktown, he received a regular discharge at that place in writing, which is now either lost or mislaid, and a few days afterwards was paid off at Richmond. He knows of no person now living by whom his services aforesaid can be proven.
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatsoever to a pension or annuity, except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid
Geo. Martin
I Frederick Habler residing in the county of Campbell, state of Virginia, do hereby certify that I am a clergyman, that I am now, and have been for twenty or thirty years, acquainted with George Martin, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that I believe him to be of the age therein stated, that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution, and from all the circumstances I concur in that opinion.
Frederick Habler
I Dorcas Moorman of the county of Campbell, state of Virginia, do hereby certify that I have been acquainted with George Martin who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration for more than fifty years, I believe him to be of the age therein stated, that he is reputed and believed to have served in the war of the

Revolution, and I well remember that my Brother who is now dead went with him, Sworn under my hand this 30 day of November 1833
Campbell County to Rev Dorcas Moorman
The fore above certificate was subscribed and sworn to before me a justice of the peace for said County of Campbell Nov 30 1833 Rich d Harvey
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 that court further certifies that it appears to them, that Frederick Habler who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the County of Campbell, and that Dorcas Moorman who has signed the other certificate is a resident of the same County and is a credible person, and that their statements are entitled to credit
I James Renagh Clerk of the court of Hastings for the Corporation of Lynchburg do hereby certify that the fore going contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of George Martin for a pension
In testimony whereof
The following questions were propounded to the declarant in open court
1 st Where and in what year was you born?
Answer in the County of Orange State of Virginia in the year 1763
2 nd Have you any record of your age and if so where is it
Answer I know of none in existence
3 rd Where were you living when called into service, where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live
Answer I lived in the County of Orange when I entered the service on both occasions. I after the war removed to the County of Albemarle, where I lived about fourteen years and thence to this County (Campbell), where I have resided since
4 th Question How were you called into service, were you drafted did you volunteer, or were you a substitute, and if a substitute for whom

answer. My first term of Service was performed as a Substitute for William Moir of the County of Orange, and the last term under an enlistment in the Continental Service as an Infantry
Rider
5 th Question State the names of some of the regular Officers who were with the troops where you served such Continental Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your Service
Answer, I served more than three months as a Substitute for said Moir in a Company under the Command of Capt. Benjamin Johnson. The number of the Regiment I do not remember but think it was Commanded by Colo. Crockett. My last term was in the Service of the Quartermaster department under Major Richard Claiborne, the Assistant Quartermaster General for this State.
6 th Question Did you ever receive a discharge from the Service and if so by whom was it given and what has become of it
Answer, I received a regular discharge in both instances which are now lost or mislaid
7 th Question State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood who can testify to your character for veracity and their belief of your Service as a Soldier of the Revolution
Answer, Frederick Kable and Dorcas Moorman
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 Frederick Kable who has signed the preceding certificate is a Clergyman resident in the County of Campbell - and that Dorcas Moorman who has signed the other certificate is a resident of the same County and is a credible person - and that their statements are entitled to credit.
I James Barragle Clerk of the Court of Hustings for the Corporation of Lynchburg, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of George Martin for a pension. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Hustings court, at the court house in said Corporation this 2 nd day of December 1833 in the 58 th year of the Commonwealth.
James Barragle Clerk

State of Virginia S. Alfred S. Reis deputy Campbell County Set: Clerk of the County
Court of Campbell in the State aforesaid do hereby certify that Richard Harney before whom the affidavit of Dorcas Moorman was subscribed and sworn to and was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County duly commissioned and qualified and that his acts as such are entitled to full credence. In testimony whereof I have
hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the Seal of said Court this 10 th day of December 1833 and of the Independence of the United States the 58 th
A. S. Reis D.C.C.C.C

SE State of Virginia, Bedford County To wit,
On this 2 d day of July - 1844, before me Then M c Donald a Justice of the peace, in and for said County, personally appeared M rs Elizabeth Martin, a resident of said County Aged 78 years - who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed July 7, 1838, (and March 3 d 1843,) entitled "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows": That she is the widow of George Martin died of the County of Campbell - who was in the service of his country during the Revolutionary war, in the capacities of Express rider, and deputy quarter master for 12 months or more. That the said George Martin was a good scholar for his age, and could write a good hand, and his being quite young at the time, his father preferred that he should serve as an Express rider, to serving in the ranks as a common soldier. That in the two capacities of Express rider, and quarter master sergeant, she understood that he served more than 12 months, and found his own horse. That his duty as an Express rider was to carry orders from the Army at Charlottesville, and the Barracks to different parts of the state to our Army, and to bring dispatches back: and was liable to be called up at any hour of the night - for which service of himself, and horse he was to receive 5 ¢ per day: how much he was to get for his services as quarter master she does not recollect - in which capacity it was his duty to dress horses, and battle, and other provisions for the prisoners that was stationed at the Barracks - and for the use of the troops that was there to guard them. This was a year or two before capture of Lord Cornwallis. She understood he also served a term in the militia. That she was married to the said Geo. Martin in the County of Dinwiddie on the 16 th day of June 1782, by the Rev d Matthew Murray; and that her husband the aforesaid Geo. Martin died in the

County of Campbell, on the 7 th day of February, 1834. That her maiden name was Jones - and that she has remained a widow ever since the death of her hus- band as aforesaid to the present time. All of which will be made to appear, by reference to the proof annexed. Declarant also states, that Austin Webb, and Chas Smith, and Mrs Jones, also rode Express - and that Geo. Martin's horse was named Yorick, and was of a dark ches- nut dark colour. He stabled sometimes in Rich d and went to Winchester sometimes - and was in service as an express rider, when Tattler's horse came up to Chantilly. She could name a great many circu- mstances that took place while he was in service if it was ne- cessary to do so. Her marriage } Elizabeth in Martin register cannot be found. } mark. Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written -
Before me - Ben A Donald, J.P. In presence of - John Fowle
State of Virginia, Bedford County. To wit, I Ben A Donald a Justice of the peace in and for said County, do hereby certify, that Mrs Elizabeth Martin who has sworn to and subscribed the foregoing declaration before me - is by reputation the widow of Geo. Martin dec d of the County of Campbell - and that from my own knowledge - she has been residing in said County as a widow, since her husband's death - at least 9 - years or more - and is still a widow - and too infirm to attend Court. Given under my hand this 2 nd day of July 1844.
Ben. A Donald J.P.

State of Virginia, Bedford County: s. s.
On this 2 d day of July 1844, before me Ben. T. Donald a Justice of the peace in and for said County personally appeared John Fowler, a respectable resident of said County, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath say - That he is 63 years old, and was well acquainted with Geo. Martin dec d of the County of Campbell, ever since about the year 1805 - or shortly after he moved from Albemarle, to the County of Campbell - where he died, on or about the 7 th day of Feb y 1834; being the same man that married Elizabeth Jones of Orange County about 60 years ago, judging from the ages of his children. That declarant has frequently heard the said Geo. Martin tell of his having been in the service of his country during the Revolutionary war, as an express rider. it being while the British prisoners were stationed at the Barracks near Ghatottaville - he was also employed in pressing horses, and hunting up cattle, and other provision for the Army, and prisoners - this he understood from Martin himself also. Declarant also understood from said Martin, that he found his own horse - and that his name was Gorrick - and that he was to get 5/ a day for his and horse services - how long he served he can't say - but that it was at least 6 months, if not more. Martin in his life time made some effort to get a pension for himself - but, being a drinking man, and of no energy, or business habits - he died with having made not much progress in it. His widow Elizabeth, moved to said County shortly after his death and has remained a widow ever since to the present time. John Fowler
Sworn to and subscribed before signed -
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written - Before me - Ben. T. Donald, J.P.

deponent Mr Fowler says he is well acquainted with Phil. Martin the oldest son of Said Geo. Martin, and Elizabeth his wife and is satisfied that he is at least 60, or 61 years old. Ben H. Martin, J.P.
Virginia : Bedford County Set.
At a Court of Quarterly Sessions continued and held for Bedford County at the Courthouse the 28 th day of August one thousand eight hundred and forty four.
The declaration of Elizabeth Martin was read in Court, claiming a pension under the acts of July 7 th 1838, and March 3 rd 1843, together with the affidavits of Mr. Molly Rhodes, Howard Bennett, and John Fowler, and the certificates of John J. Brock, Charles A. Lynch, and Benjamin A. Donald Esq. - and the Court being satisfied with the same, do certify to the War Department that said Elizabeth Martin is the Widow of George Martin Deceased of Campbell, who was by reputation an express rider in the Revolutionary War and died in the County of Campbell on or about the 7 th day of February 1834, leaving his widow Elizabeth aforesaid, who has remained a widow in said County ever since the death of her husband as aforesaid to the present time. That the said Benjamin A. Donald is an acting Justice of the peace in and for said County, duly Commissioned and qualified as such, and that the signatures purporting to be his affixed to his several certificates in the case are genuine.
In testimony that the above is a true and correct transcript from the records of said Court, I Robert O. Mitchell Clerk thereof hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court this 9 th day of September one thousand eight hundred & forty four.
R. Mitchell C.P.

Sir
This is to certify that I am willing for George Martin to marry my daughter Elizabeth Jones. I am at your noble service. To Capt James Taylor Thos Jones June 14 th 1783 John Young Mrs Young
Know all men by these presents that we George Martin and John Young are held and firmly bound unto the Commonwealth of Virginia, in the sum of fifty pounds cur t money. We bind ourselves our heirs execs and assigns jointly and severally, firmly by these presents. Witness our hands and seals this 14 th day of June 1783.
Whereas there is a marriage suddenly intended to be solemnized between George Martin and Elizabeth Jones, spinster, of the county of Orange. The condition of the above obligation is such, that if there is no lawful cause to obstruct the same then the above obligation to be void, or else to remain in full force and virtue. Sealed and delivered in the presence of us Geo. Martin (Seal) John Young (Seal)
Virginia, to wit;
In testimony that the foregoing are truly copied from the originals upon file in the clerk's office of the county court of Orange county, I Philips Fry, clerk of the said court, have hereunto put my name, and affixed the seal of the said court this 17 th day of October, eighteen hundred and forty four, and in the 69 th year of the commonwealth
P. S. Fry CLK

Orange House
Octo 17 1844
Dear Sir
Yours of the 27 ult. came to hand when I was engaged with my accounts. I now send you the copies requested. my fee is 91 cents
Respectfully
Yours &c.
P.S. Fry

Mrs. H.
A.
Syracuse Oct. 22 nd 1844.
Sir, Enclosed is the Marriage Bond of Geo. Martin to Elizabeth Jones of Orange - which you will file with the pension papers of Mrs. Elizabeth Martin of Bedford County - I am hopes in your service is satisfactorily proven -
No. 16 Gray Ag.
Robert W Gray Esq Oppenheim New
Robert W Gray

September 27, 1937.
Mrs. William E. Williams Snowden Virginia.
BA-J/ILL George Martin (MMHF) R. 6941 Richard Wilson S. 6416
Dear Madam:
The data given herein are shown in pension claims based upon service in the Revolutionary War of George Martin and Richard Wilson.
GEORGE MARTIN-R. 6941
George Martin was born October 14, 1763, in Orange County, Virginia, and lived there at the time of the Revolutionary War; the names of his parents are not shown. He was quite a scholar and wrote an excellent hand.
George Martin enlisted in 1778, and served three months in Captain Benjamin Johnson's company, Colonel Crockett's Virginia regiment. He entered the service in March 1781, served as express rider, on his own horse, "Yorrick", a dark chestnut sorrel, under Major Richard Claiborne, the Assistant Quartermaster General for the State of Virginia, carrying messages from Albemarle Barracks to Richmond, Staunton and other places of importance and was discharged in October 1781, after the surrender of Lord Cornwallis. It was stated, also, that during a part of this period, he was engaged as quartermaster sergeant obtaining horses for the service and provisions for the troops at Albemarle Barracks and for the prisoners at that place.
He moved from Orange County, to Albemarle County, Virginia, and resided about fourteen years, then moved to Campbell County, Virginia.
George Martin applied December 31, 1833, for the pension which might have been due on account of his service in the Revolution. His claim was not allowed as his service as express rider was not provided for in the pension law under which he applied, and the length of his first service, in a regularly organized military corps, was less than six months, the length required by law in that capacity. He resided in January 1834, in

Lynchburg, Campbell County, Virginia. George Martin died February 7, 1834.
The soldier married in Orange County, Virginia, Elizabeth Jones, the daughter of Thomas Jones of that county; they were married by a Minister. Their marriage bond was dated June 14, 1783 and was signed by John Young. The name of Elizabeth's mother is not shown.
After the death of her husband, Elizabeth Martin moved to Bedford County, Virginia. In 1852, she gave her age as eighty-six years. She was living there in 1856.
George Martin and his wife, Elizabeth, had children; the name of only one was stated, that of their eldest son, Thomas Martin, who in 1844, was aged between sixty and sixty-one years.
RICHARD WILSON-S. 6416.
Richard Wilson was born in December 1762, in Caroline County, Virginia; the names of his parents are not shown.
While a resident of Caroline County, Virginia, he enlisted in 1779, and served a tour as orderly sergeant in Captain Long's Virginia company, engaged in guarding the lower part of Virginia; subsequently, he served four tours of three months each as orderly sergeant under Captains Clark, Hamison, Stevens and Tyler, and Colonels McWilliams, Innis, Matthews and Johnston in the Virginia troops; during this service, he was stationed in the State of Virginia, and was near Gloucester Town during the Siege of Yorktown.
The soldier moved in the year 1796, from Caroline County, to Amherst County, Virginia.
Richard Wilson was allowed pension on his application executed August 23, 1832, at which time he resided in Amherst County, Virginia; he had resided there ever since 1796.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, name of person paid, and, possibly, the date of death of this pensioner, you should address the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office,

Records Division, this city, and cite the following:
Richard Wilson Certificate #12148 Issued April 1, 1833 Rate $40 per annum Commenced March 4, 1831 Act of June 7, 1832. Virginia Agency.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILKER, Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

Hon T. S. Boeck Jan'y 7/53

Pension Office Jny 7 1853
Sir
Herewith return the letter of Doleney Martin and have the honor to inform you that the claim of Elizabeth Martin of Va. was rejected by this Department and the decision affirmed by the Secretary of the Interior June 24 1880, and in response to a letter of the Hon J. S. Wilson, Chairman of the Committee of Rev Pensions, the papers in her case were sent to him on the 8 March 1882, and are now upon the files of the Dept R.
Hon. J. S. Bocock Dept R

Elizabeth Martin
Hon - Henry J. Edmundson - V.P. Ho. of Rep. Present.
Rev Pensions

Wash City Feb. 25, 1856.
Sir,
Enclosed is the petition of W m Poulter, which you will please have filed with the papers of Mrs Elizabeth Martin, before the Com te on Rec d pensions - and by which we wish further to show, that Express Service, was not only military, but, that they were invested with the Executive power, of impressing horses for service; and his acts as such the Govt to pay for any horse, that died in said service from unreasonable treatment &c.
This is positively a just claim, and should be allowed as the widow. Mrs Martin is still alive - and one of the very few remaining needy widows, whose husband fought to acquire the liberty we enjoy.
The service of Express-riders was of an much more hazardous and exposed character than sold d in the line, as they were liable to be captured, or shot down at any time by the Tories - and I am informed by one of the best informed Agents on the subject, that since this claim has been (and appealed -) rejected, (on the grounds, that the service was not "military") that numerous claims for Express Service have been allowed by the deft.
But independent of the services of Geo. Martin - the best - as Express rider 6 mo. he served 6 months additional, as a 2 d M t Ser t for hunting up cattle and provision. I trust that the Committee, will give this claim their patient attention, and consideration - the result of which must be to allow her a 12 mo. pension on the service of Geo. Martin as Express rider, and 2 d M t Ser t - Act July 7, 1838 from the 4 th day of March 1836 - to the present time, and during life de

during the 2 years vacu.um from 1841- to 43 - and as to the pay r d as Paymaster Rider and 2 d Mast d Lieut - I have already filed evidence in the case on these points.
You will be so good as to have the within enclosed evidence - and also this letter, filed with the papers in the case of Mr. Martin - and if the papers have not been withdrawn from the files for the purpose of reference, you will please have that done also. and greatly oblige the undersigned.
Respectfully -
Robt H Gray att d for R.S.
Hen.
Henry A Edmundson of Va - Com te on Rev d Claims. Present.

Washington D.C. May 12 th 1856
My Dear Sir:
I desire to introduce to your acquaintance, my constituent, Robert H Gray esq; of Lynchburg. Va.
He has paid much attention to Revolutionary and other claims against the Government, and has a great deal of information on such subjects.
He feels deep interest in a Bill introduced by yourself to give pay the half-pay Claims, of the Officers & soldiers of the Revolutionary War, & perhaps wishes to have some conversation with you on that subject.
Hon Mr Broome very truly yrs Th. S. Roach

Wash n City Feb y 27. 1854
Sir
In the case of Mr E. M c Martin (uid of Geo) act July 7. 1838, we have to request the favor, that you will examine the authority and precedents, we shall refer you to, applicable to his case. Shewing conclusively that Express Riders, was not only "military," but that they were classed among the officers of the Army, in the Rec s was but that each Express rider was ent d to 1, 2-horse wagon or 2 Bat- Horses to enable them to carry dispatches &c. from one part of the Army to any other or to the Seat of Gov t &c. and that money was advanced them for said purposes.
Also, that the rank or office, of deputy purchasers of line stock (or deputy Q rt Mast r ) was also recognized by Cong s and $27 pr Mo. allowed them as pay. Then 1 st the Express riders.
By reference To  of old Journals of Cong s - the Hon Mr Washburne will find that Elijah Bennet was employed as an Express-Rider the 25 th July 1776.
June the 16 th 1777. Cong s in fixing the pay of the off s of the Q rt Mast r dept s allows $27 pr Mo. to deputy purchasers of line stock! (one of the ranks which Geo Martin held in the Army, at the Albermale Barracks! See Cong s Journ s this date
Dec r 29. 1777. Money was advanced to Rich d Rife an Express-Rider See Journals of Cong s this date

Jan d . 20 th 1778, $200 in Money was advanced to W m Dodd an Ex-pref. Rider. See Jour s of Cong s this date.
Jan d . 20 th 1778 - $200. was ad d to Lemuel Barry an Ex-pref. Rider. Jour s of Cong s this date.
In 1780. (July 15) Cong s . Resolved, That the following proportions of Waggons and Bat-horses be allowed to the different ranks of Officers &c. To wit -
To Ex-pref. Riders, 1, 2-horse waggons, or, 2, Bat-horses! Here it will be seen, that Ex-pref. Riders were not only advanced money, in order to prosecute efficiently their office; but that they are called, and classed among the officers of the Army belonging to the 2 d Mass s dept. See Jour s of Cong s . July 15, 1780.
The above Extracts from the Jour s of Cong s go to show that both of those officers which Geo. Martin held, are recognized by Cong s - the pay of line stock purchasers being $27. per Mo., and that of Ex-pref. Riders 5/- per day or $25 per month. being an Average of $26 per Mo. or $312. per An.
But there being only 12 Mo. Service performed she, Geo. Martin at the rate of a a certificate of pay per n would only be entitled to $156. per An. under the act of July 7, 1888 - which we trust the Committee will allow her, and direct her name to be placed on the per n

roll at that rate - as she is still alive.
The affidaits of Mrs. Molly Rhoades and Howard Bennett prove the services of Geo. Martin - 12 mo. as an Ex-pref. rider (instead of 6 mo. as stated above) and 6 mo. as an dep't g't mast' Sup't (as Mr. Rhodes called it) to hunt of battle prep horses &c. If this last service, was distinct from the service of Ex-pref. rider, there would be 18 mo. service instead of 12 - but we are willing that the pension may be allowed as above on 12 mo. service - and Mr. Martin be placed on the roll at that rate, under the act of July 7, 1838 - she having been married in 1784 - to 1786.
With these few remarks we submit the case with the hope that The Hon. Mr. Washburne will give the evidence filed, and the authorities referred to a full and patient examination, and investigation - and allow the poor old - needy - widow - still alive - such pension as said services will warrant - and overrule, and reprove, the loose manner of deciding, and rejecting claims, heretofore practised on in the pension office, by the examining clerks - without putting themselves to the trouble to examine into, authority on the subject, of what is, and what is not

and what is not military.
The Committee will also perceive, that the series of "Martin as quarter-master Serg t " or deft purchase of live stock is not even noticed. So summary manner did the Eve d clerk dispose of it! because forsooth, that he in his extreme wisdom pronounced Equestrian-riders, as not being "military," Respectfully.
To the
Robt. H. Gray
Hon. Israel Washburn Jr.
sec y
Gov t on Reserves.
cc
Eliz Martin

Post office Feb. 28, 1854
Sir.
I did not receive yours of the 24 th inst until this morning through the P.O., which was not delivered to me yesterday at 3 o'clock when I was there.
In your note you do not state the grounds of objection to Mr. Martins claim, but presume that it was the same that was pleaded by the Comr. of Pensions, which, the authority I refer you to yesterday - through the Hon. Mr. Edmondson will remove so far as the want of a military character of Geo Martins Services is concerned.
I neglected in my note of yesterday to refer you to the fact, that Surg s and Surg s Males, Chaplains! &c. &c. and all concerned in the Hospital dept. Armory &c. and many other occupations

in connection with the Service, and are were allowed Comp n pay, bounties, and pensions. And so far as danger to life, and limb was concerned in the Rebel struggle, the post of an Express Rider was certainly the most exposed - subject at all times to death, or capture, either from the forces of G. Britain - or by the Tories of Country.
Indeed it was a matter of the utmost importance, that despatches, from one part of our Army to another should be inter ad hence the necessity, the necessity, that Express riders should perform their tour, or trust with as much secrecy as possible - and that in the night. Respectfully,
Robt H Gray
Hon Mr Washburn
Present

Eduard Locke
2 an Engraving - video prep
Wm Painter - Mare.
To be filed in the case of E. L. Martin for a pension.
Act July 7/38
No. H Gray att.
Edmundson

Resolved That the petition of W m Dainton, setting forth, that a certain Edward Cooke of Charles City County, was employed by the Gov r and Council to ride express upon public business that the horse furnished him by the public having died on the road, he impressed a grey-mare, the property of the petitioner, for the purpose of pursuing his Journey on. That the said Cooke rode so violently, that she died in a few days, and was never returned to him. That Peter Royster, and Gideon Christian, being previously sworn, valued the said Mare to £3000- and praying to be paid by the public the valuation of said Mare is reasonable; and that the petitioner ought to be allowed and paid the said sum of £3000, the amount of the same.
Journals N o . Legislature Dec r . 28 th 1788.

Pension Office,
March 8 th 1852.
Sir:
In compliance with your request, I herewith enclose the papers in the case of Elizabeth Martin an applicant for a pension under the act of July 7 th 1838, numbered from one to four inclusive, the receipt of which you will please to acknowledge. The objections to the admission of this claim are stated in the accompanying copy of a report made to the Hon Secretary of War on the 21 st January 1845, and which was concurred in by him. In January 1850, the case was again called up on an appeal to the Hon Secretary of the Interior, who also affirmed the decision of this Office.
I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
Your Ob t Servant
H. Heath
Commissioner of Pensions
Hon John S. Millson, Chairman Committee Revolutionary Pensions, House of Representatives.

That the officers, or their legal representatives, who have not received commutation, half pay for life, or for seven years; be entitled to it under this bill, upon the principles on which, it has been allowed to other officers.

At my request the Col n on Rev d pensions - call d on the Court of pensions, for the papers in the cases of Elizabeth wid of Geo  Marlin Act 1832, Eliza Simpson - wid of John Act 1836 - and Susan Oglesby wid of Richd Act 1836 - to be referred to the Court n on Rev d pensions - which papers The Col n Mr. Millson, says, has not as yet come to hand - will Mr. Wilson be so good as to have the above papers forwarded to the Hon Mr. Millson, and a greatly oblige Feb. 24, 1852. Robt H Gray Coast Pilot

Mar 8/52
Dear John S. Millman

Pension Office March 8 1852
Sir.
In compliance with your request I herewith enclose the papers in the case of Elizabeth Martin an applicant for a pension under the act of July 7, 1838, numbered from 1 to 4 inclusive, the receipt of which you will please to acknowledge. The objections to the admission of this claim are stated in the accompanying copy of a report made to the Hon Secretary War on the 21 st January 1845. and which was concurred in by him. In January 1850, the case was again called up on an appeal to the Hon Secretary of the Interior, who also affirmed the decision of this office.
I have the honor to be
Very Respectfully
Your obedient Servant
Commissioner of Pensions
Hon John T. Millson
Chairman Committee Revolutionary Pensions House of Representatives.

No 11,386
Elizabeth Martin (vs Joseph)
July 7. 1888,

Com. Room. Rev. Pensions. H. of Reps.
Feb 11. 1852
Sir
On behalf of the Committee on Rev. Pensions, I have the honor to request that the papers relating to the application of the heirs of Elizabeth Martin for a pension, may be forwarded to this Committee, with the views of the Comr. upon the case.
Very respectfully
Your obedt. servt.
John S. Millard Chair. Com. Rev. Pensions.
for E. Heath Esq Comr. Pensions.

Copy
Department of the Interior June, 24 th 1830,
Sir,
I herewith return the papers in the case of Elizabeth Martin and have to inform you that your report thereon has been affirmed by this Depart- ment.
I remain,
Very respectfully,
Your Obedt Servt,
(Signed) T Ewing
J L Edwards, Esq., Commissioner of Pensions,

State of Virginia, Orange County S.S.
I Valentine Johnson a Justice of the peace, in and for said County, do hereby certify, that at the Age of 17, or 18 years - I performed a term of service in the Revd. war, of 2 months - from the County of Culpepper, in the Fall of 1781.
I was employed by Richd. Young, an officer under the Genl. Gort and stationed in the Town of Fredericksburg - who seemed to have authority to make such appointments.
The service I rendered was of a military nature, and exempted me from serving a term in the Militia; for which term of service, that I served as an express rider, I received a certificate of service from the said Richd. Young. All appointments as express riders, I considered as of a military nature, and were derived from the a like authority, that mine were.
I did not get acquainted with Genl. Cornwallis until after the close of the Revd. war. I lived in Culpepper, and he in Orange during the war. As an express rider, I was stationed at Bowling Green, and rode from that place to Fredericksburg - and to Sodd's Bridge, where I met other express riders, which was stationed at short stages apart to convey the intelligence with as much dispatch as possible, from one part of the Army to another. General Cornwallis was taken, while I was riding. I preferred to ride as an express to serving in the ranks. I recd. pay for myself and horse.
Jan. 20 th 1845.
Valentine Johnson J.P.

(Informal) Certificate of Col. Valentine Johnson of Orange,
To be filed with the pension papers of Mrs Elizabeth Martin of Bedford county Virginia
Ro. H. Gray Agent Present

11336, Sept 16 1844
Va July 7 1838 Eliz Martin
9 Rev. J. Edwards Esq brn. of Phoebe's Washington D.C.
FREE

Lynchburg Sept 12 1844.
Sir, Enclosed is the declaration of Mrs. Elizabeth Martin of Bedford - under the Act of July 7 1838. The proof of service I think is satisfactory, for not less than 6 mo. if not 12. and the pay as Express rider at 50 cts per day.
There has been greater delay in this case than there should have been. I undertook it in the early part of the Spring - but did not go to Abernale after the evidence I obtained from there until about the 1 st of May. Should I obtain any new evidence of Marriage I will forward it. if not, the certificate of the clerk as required by the rules.
Yours respectfully
Thos. W. Gray Atty

Lynchburg Va. Jan'y 3/45.
Rev. H. Gray.
Appeals on pension cases of Lucy Wright & Geo. Martin.
G.2. Rec Jan'y 7. 45.
Secretary of War Va. Washington info. missg G.2.
Adm McWilliams
Am

Synch's Jan. 3 1844.
Sir,
I have refrained from appealing heretofore from the decision of the Com. of pensions J S Edwards - as far as I could without making an entire surrender of the rights of those I represent. There are two cases however, in which I am bound to dissent from his decision, and appeal to you for justice - in the name of the parties.
In the case of Lucy Wright of Nelson County Virginia, whose declaration is filed with the Com. of pensions - Mr. Edwards refuses to allow for a tour that her husband Andrew Wright served as a waggoner in the public service, because it is not shown, that he Andrew Wright, was taken from the ranks for that purpose. In this case it is in proof positive, that the waggon he drove was pressed into service for at least 3 mo. by the quartermaster, and said Wright detailed by him to drive it for a full tour of 3 months - and the proof is positive, and satisfactory as to the service having been rendered as such. The only question in this case is, was it necessary that Wright should have been taken from the ranks, for the purpose of making a waggon driver of him. There was no Barracks of soldiers within 35 or 40 miles of where the waggon was pressed - and further Wright was detailed for that purpose by the Q. Master because he was called a good driver before that time. And there is no mistake about the waggon he drove having been pressed into the service - for it is in proof also, that the Q. M. had a place of deposit for the provision, and other articles he

bought at (now) Nelson Court House - when they were no, and from thence haled to the Barracks near Charlottesville, for the use of the Army and prisoners there, in 1779, 80 nd . The other case involves the same principle.
The commissioner refuses to allow the services of Geo. Maylie - as an Enlistment from one part of the Army to the other - in Virginia - services positively proven - be- -cause, as in the above case - it is not in proof, that he the said Martin was detailed from the ranks, in actual service - for that purpose. Please give me your opinion, as instructions to the Com. of pensions, whether it was necessary that those who rendered said services, should be taken alone from the ranks in actual service - or be detailed also, from the militia for said purposes. As I expect to be in Washington in a few days, you will please direct your answer to me in Washington.
Ro. W. Gray Agent for the parties.

Pension Office January 21 1845
Sir.
In obedience to your order I have the honor to make the following report upon the application of Lucy Wright and Elizabeth Martin, upon which Mr Gray has appealed.
In the case of Lucy Wright the enclosed extract from my letter of 10 Oct last to Mr Gray will apprize you of the ground upon which her claim is rejected. The improbability that a Millilia citizen soldier drafted for a tour of service to guard prisoners at a Depot, should be taken from the ranks, and required to drive a hired or impressed team engaged in hauling provisions from different parts of the country, would impose upon those who assert a claim upon that allegation, the obligation to establish it by the most conclusive evidence.
The claim of Elizabeth Martin, founded upon her husband's employment as an Express Rider finding his own horse, at 5/ per diem, would

appear to have a colorable foundation. There was no authority to enlist under Military obligation, an Express Rider; and the Pension Law, provide for those only who rendered service in an authorized and embodied corps, under the penalties of the Law Martial, with the monthly pay provided by Law. Soldiers, or Subaltern Officers in service, were very generally detailed for express and rode the public horses. But her husband residing in the neighborhood of the Barracks, at the Depot of prisoners, was engaged whenever occasion might require his service, to convey necessary communications upon his own horse at 75. per diem. The papers in both cases are herewith enclosed.
I have the honor to be Very Respectfully your obedient Servant (signed) J L Edwards. Commissioner of Pensions
Hon W m Wilkins Secretary of War.

War Department. Pension Office. 10 th January 1834.
Sir
The case of George Martin has again been examined. In no case has any Pension been granted for service as an Express rider except in a corps attached to the Head Quarters of the Commander in Chief, Gen l Washington. — That corps was placed on the same footing with the combatants of the army, and hence they have received the gratuity allowed for military service. — M c Martin's claim cannot be admitted.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully.
Your ob t serv t .
J. L. Edwards
Hon. W. Davenport. A. of Representatives.

allers from the Comt. of Pensions, & the declaration of Geo: Martin returned. —

War Department
Pension Office
Decr. 28-1833.
Sir:
The application for a pension under the act of June 7-1832 of George Martin has been examined -
It appears from the declaration of his services that he served as a soldier three months only, and that the service performed afterwards was that of an express rider exclusively - As this kind of service is not embraced by the act of June 7-1832, the claim has been rejected, and the papers placed upon the files of this office.
I have the honor to be
Your obedt Servant
J. L. Edwards
Hon: Mr. Davisson of Virginia House of Representatives

James L Edwards Esq.
Comm ee of Pensions
Washington D.C.
papers with Dawn - see war
69H15-

House of Reps.
January 7 th 1834
James L. Edwards Esq.
Sir
I am not entirely satisfy'd in regard to your decision in the case of Geo. Martin of Lynchburg for pension. It seems to me that the services perform'd by Martin as an express rider are such as might properly constitute a part of the time for which he claims; provided, it appears from the application on file, substantiated by the necessary proofs, that said service was perform'd, & that he was employ'd by an authorised officer of the army then in service. The argument that he was hired to perform this service, & that he has been paid for it according to contract, will apply, I think, with equal force to every soldier who has rec d . for services in line; and thus exclude from the benefits of your pension law, almost every applicant. for pensions I dislike very much to be compelled by a sense of duty, or any other cause, to add in any degree to the many troubles

which I have perceived are hourly & multiply'd by ac- cumulating upon you, but I must nevertheless request of you, in behalf of this poor old man, that you get up his papers again & submit them to the Genl. Secy. of War for his Inspection & final decision. —
I am Sir
Yrs Mr. Remy.
H. Claiborne

El d Martin - act 1838.
Coopref. lidus pay. s c .
No. H Gray. att?

Pay - in Vt. Mast. dep t at Albermarle Barracks - Feb. 7. 1781.
To wit.
   specie     Asst. dep. Vt. Mast. per day - 15/ or 75 cts Tobacco.   Waggon Conductors " " 5/ " 25 cts do   Waggoners. " " 1/6. " 7 1/2 cts "   Corps. Riders. " " 2/6. " 12 1/2 cts "   4 horse Team and driver. " 10/ " 50 cts "   2 do. do. do. " 7/6. " 37 1/2 cts "  
The Committee will observe, that Cor. Riders were considered as belonging to the Vt. M t dep t . and as much entitled to Pensions as any other officer belonging to it.
The pay above enumerated, corresponds with the declar n of the widow, Ed a Martin when the services of the horse - that her husband furnish d is taken in to consideration - she says he rec d 5/ per day - for 6 months. The evidence filed sustains her declar n . Geo. Martin also served 6 mo. as dep. gr. ser t . See evidence filed. Her pension should be about $25 per mo. for 12 mo. service under the Act of July 7. 1838. giving her the full benefit, of this and subsequent acts. she will alive.
R. Gray - att n .

George Martin - Virginia
Rejected, Jan 28 Dec. 33-
to Hon. H. Davenport
to the same 10 Jan. 1834
Papers handed to same January 31. 1834
were returned in 1850 -
ack of Jan 1832

11.336
Elizabeth Martin 1838 Ya
Rejoined
Act to R. W. Gray Nov 23rd '41
to same Dec 17 '44 on Daniel R. Goggins Jan 4 '38 on Hon. Sec. of War Jan 21 '45 on Shetter T. Seale Dec 4th 1845
Act July 7 38

Decision of the office affirmed by Secretary of the Interior - See his letter of 24 th Jan 1850, filed with Decision LA No 9. S. Wilson March 8. 1852 Hon. T. S. Baccus Jng 7 '53

Mr
To the
Hon Thomas Davenport Member Congress from Va Washington City

Lynchburg Feby 13 th 1834 Dear Sir
Since my last, enclosing a Petition to Congress for George Martin in behalf of his Revolutionary Services. the Old man has followed his compatriots, and gone to that Bourne from whence no traveller can return to tell his tale of ingratitude against Republics but he has left behind an aged wife, mother of the Son who has toiled to support both, and who now, (not complaining) sees others less meritorious, less needy, receiving the bounty of the country, while his Fathers Services are postponed, or denied under cold rules of Pension Office manufacture, or Congressional neglect. Sir if this mans Representatives do not be heard, it will be a stigma on the present Congress, for if ever man had just Claims on his Country it is that man who steps forward in her hour of greatest peril and devotes his person and property to her service. that this man has done so, it is only necessary to look to his case to ascertain, told with all the simplicity of one on the verge of eternity where he has now gone, In behalf of his aged widow, I ask that You will so place the peculiar circumstances of this case before your Hon'd body as to produce action if not Justice
Your Friend
Please let me hear from you soon on this subject
J. Ward

7 th of Feby. 1834
From 4 Mar. '31 to
7 th Feby. 1834.
ent con

September 27, 1937.
Mrs. William E. Williams Snowden Virginia.
BA-J/ILL George Martin R. 6941 Richard Wilson S.6416
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War records of William Dillard of Amherst County, Virginia, Samuel Huckstep, of Virginia, George Martin of Amherst County, Virginia, who married Elisabeth Jones, John Wingfield who married Susannah Lewis and died in 1827, Richard Wilson who was born in 1762, and died in 1836, and Charles Tyler who lived in Charles City County, Virginia, and moved to Amherst County in 1783.
Revolutionary War data furnished by this office are obtained from claims for pension and bounty land which have been made to the United States based upon service.
There is no claim for pension or bounty land on file based upon service in the Revolutionary War of the Charles Tyler or John Wingfield as described by you, nor of any William Dillard or Samuel Huckstep, under any spelling of the surnames. The records of George Martin, claim R. 6941, and Richard Wilson, claim S. 6416, are furnished you herewith.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER, Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau. Copy sent to Rep.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     1778 3 mos. Benjamin Thompson Col. Eddy Va.   Oct. 1781 Oct. 1781 Impressed under Major General Washington   when with Genl. Washington General for Pa.            
Battles engaged in, _____
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Orange Co. Va.
Date of application for pension, June 11, 1844
Residence at date of application, Cambridge Co. Va. (now in Nelson Co. Va.)
Age at date of application, Oct. 14, 1763 in Orange Co. Va.
Remarks: Soldier was in Orange Co. Va. June 16, 1782. He had a daughter, Mary Jones. She was 78 years old and a resident of Bedford Co. Va. July 2, 1844. Children are referred to, no names stated other than Thomas their oldest son. Claim was rejected as soldier did not serve 6 mos. in an embodied corps as required by the act of June 7, 1832 under which he applied. Very respectfully, Service as an express rider not military service.

Snowden, Virginia September 23, 1937
War Department, Pension Bureau Washington, D. C.
Gentlemen:
Will you kindly let me have copies of the service records of the following men who fought in the American Revolutionary War? I should also appreciate it if you could furnish any other information, such as names of parents, wives, or children, or any dates of birth, marriage, or death. The notes appended to each name are added to assist you in distinguishing the individual from other persons of the same name:
1. CHARLES TYLER . Lived in (Charles City Co.?) Va.; moved to Amherst Co. Va. in 1783. Was father (possibly grandfather - the name Charles recurs frequently) of one JOHN TYLER of Amherst Co. who married ELIZABETH DILLARD.
2. WILLIAM DILLARD . Lived in Amherst Co. Va. Father of ELIZABETH DILLARD who married JOHN TYLER. cf. (1) above.
3. RICHARD WILSON . Lived in Caroline Co., Va. born 1762. OK married ANNA DISMUKE (DES MIEUX?) 1781. died 1836. Reference - Virginia Pension Rolls p. 111.
4. JOHN WINGFIELD . Lived in (Amherst Co.?) Va. married SUSANNAH LEWIS. died 1827. Was father of JOHN LEWIS WINGFIELD, born 1784.
OK 5. GEORGE MARTIN . Lived in (Amherst Co.?) Va. born in Scotland - died 1833. Married ELIZABETH JONES. Was father of HOWARD MARTIN born 1792.

6. SAMUEL HUCKSTEP Lived in Albemarle Co., Va. married ELIZABETH — died 1815. His son, RICHARD CROWIN- SHIELD HUCKSTEP married Naomi DILLARD TYLER 1814. (Amherst) The name of SAMUEL HUCKSTEP appears as one of the signers of a resolution adopted by the "Patriots of Albemarle County," a document in the possession of "The Virginia Historical Society." I believe that this resolution antedates the "Declaration of Independence."
If you can give me any information on any or all of the above, I shall appreciate it very much.
Very truly yours,
Louise Elliott Tyler Williams (Mrs. William F.)

for
RECORD DIVISION.
Department of the Interior, BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Briefed by Geo. M. Moore
Claim No. Mar 15, 1910
Certificate No. _____
Claimant _____
Soldier George Martin
Service Va.  Res.
Additional Service _____
In from Albemarle Co. Va.
No. _____ claim, State records _____, 190_____
No claim, combination records _____, 190_____
REMARKS:
In 0 W. I. No. R. as above except W. I. 45-43. Pocahontas Co. Va. " RF 6941 } Albemarle Co. Va. " RF 6945 } to be consolidated Mar. 19, 1910.

Wm. C. Smock
ATTORNEY-AT-LAW
42 NORTH DELAWARE STREET
NEW PHONE 403; OLD, MAIN 504
Indianapolis,
March 4. 1910.
Secretary of the Interior Washington D.C.
Dear Sir,
Kindly furnish me the service record of George Martin who entered the Army in the War of the Revolution from Albemarle Co. Virginia. - This record is desired for the use of one of his de- scendants in obtaining membership in the Society of the Sons of the Revolution.
Yours truly Wm C Smock
MAR 8 - 1910

1910 Mich. 21 Hist. L. Wm C Smack V.P.M. 1937-Sept. 27- Hist. to Mrs. W.E. Williams - J.H.R.
Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.
6941
P. O. Elizabeth Martin
Service: widow of George
Enlisted: _____, 18
Discharged: _____, 18
REJECTED
Application filed: _____, 18
Alleges: _____
Re-enlisted: _____
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18

Consolidated with Ref. 6941.
P. O.
George Martin
Service: Paper to Hon Mr Davenport Jany 31. 1834
Enlisted: Express Rider & not, 18 enlisted man
Discharged: 18 Paper ret from Congress files in May 1883 -
Application filed: _____, 18
Alleges: _____
Re-enlisted: _____
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____

ELIZABETH MARTIN.
[To accompany bill H. R. 597.]
DECEMBER 12, 1856.
Mr. BROOM, from the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, made the following
REPORT.
The Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, to whom was referred the petition of Elizabeth Martin, widow of George, report:
That the said Elizabeth made claim in 1844, to the Pension Office, for a pension under the act of Congress of July 7, 1838, founded on the services of her husband, George Martin, as an express rider from Charlottesville barracks, Virginia, to different parts of the State to the army, in the revolutionary war, for twelve months or more preceding the surrender of Lord Cornwallis. It is also claimed that he sometimes acted as deputy quartermaster at that post, to press horses and cattle, and obtain provisions for the prisoners at the barracks. The claim was disallowed on the grounds that "there was no authority to enlist under military obligations an express rider, and the pension laws provide for those only who rendered service in an authorized and embodied corps under the penalties of the law-martial."
One witness testified that she knew he served as an express rider, and found his own horse for one year in the war in the service above stated, and "also acted as a kind of deputy quartermaster to press horses into service, and bought up cattle and other provisions for the troops at the barracks and the prisoners taken at Burgoyne's defeat."
Another witness, certified to be credible, testified that he was well acquainted with the said George Martin, and he knew he served as an express rider, and found his own horse, for more than six months, if not twelve, when the British prisoners were quartered at Charlottesville, called Albemarle barracks.
It appears she was married to said Martin before the close of the war in 1782, and is now ninety years old, and needy.
Your committee think that the services rendered by an express rider is meritorious service; and while acting in that capacity, had he been derelict in the performance of his duty, would, whether taken from the line, or engaged in voluntary service, be subject to the same penalties of the law-martial. And inasmuch as the former pension laws have not provided for this service, they recommend a bill for her relief.

H. R. 597
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
FEBRUARY 25, 1857.—Ordered to be printed.
Mr. CLAY made the following
REPORT.
[To accompany bill H. R. No. 597.]
The Committee on Pensions, to whom was referred "H. R. An act for the relief of Elizabeth Martin," have had the same under consideration, and submit the following report:
Petitioner claims a pension for services rendered by her husband, George Martin, as an express rider in and during the revolutionary war, who was employed at the rate of five dollars per diem for himself and horse. Admitting the service to be rendered as asserted by the petitioner, it was not military in its character; nor was the express rider exposed to the dangers a soldier would incur by travelling alone. It is not claimed that he was wounded or injured, or contracted any disease, while so employed. Your committee are of opinion that petitioner has not a shadow of claim upon this government for a pension—especially for the arrears for 21 years proposed to be given in the House bill—and therefore unanimously recommend the adoption of the following resolution:
Resolved , That an act (597) of the House of Representatives, entitled "An act for the relief of Elizabeth Martin," be indefinitely postponed.

 George Martin The Petition of George Martin of Campbell County Va for Pension 6945 Feb. 10. 1834 Ref d to Com ee Rev. Pensions Feb. 21. 1834 - Com tee did d to him
3
23
Lea 19. to him Davenport 87. Penn

To the Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled.
The Petition of George Martin a Revolutionary Soldier, now and for many years past a Resident of the County of Campbell in the State of Virginia respectfully shews that your Petitioner at an early period of the Revolution, and of his life he being then but sixteen years of age, entered the army as a Substitute for a drafted Militia man from the County of Orange Virginia and in that capacity served three months, in guarding certain British Prisoners at the town of Charlottesville in the County of Albermarle, and there when the Corps to which he belonged was disbanded, obtained an honorable discharge - That in the month of March 1781, when his native State was in most imminent danger from an invasion by the British Forces under the Command of Lord Cornwallis, he enlisted as an express Rider under Col. Claiborne assistant Comissary General for the Southern Department, furnished his own horse at a time when they were with great difficulty obtained for military service, and was actually engaged in hard service carrying Communications from Head quarters in Richmond to every Section of the State where required so to do by the Department until after the capture of the British Forces in Yorktown, in that year. Making a period of more than four months actual, constant, and dangerous service, as will appear by reference to his declaration now on file at the Pension Office of the United States, a copy of which is herewith shown. On presenting his claim to the proper office for a pension under the act of 1832. Your Petitioner is informed that his case is not embraced in the act, and cannot be admitted. but believing that no distinction or partiality was intended by your Honorable body between those who had really faithfully and laboriously served their Country in its hour of greatest peril, and finding himself in his old age destitute of the means of support without a resort to his relatives and friends or his Country.

He humbly presents himself before the latter for an equitable consideration of his case and hopes that such relief may be afforded to him as has been extended to others and the merits of his claim may justify. and as in duty bound your Petitioner will ever pray Geo. Martin January 18 th 1834
The undersigned citizens of the town of Lynchburg and county of Campbell in the state of Virginia do hereby certify that we are well acquainted with George Martin who has signed the foregoing petition. Some of us having known him many years. that he has always borne the character of an honest Man and a good citizen. that he is poor and infirm and we believe is as equitably entitled to a pension from his country as any one who served it during the war of the Revolution. we therefore join him in respectfully asking that his case may receive the attention of the Honorable body to whom it is addressed. and that he may receive such relief as may be just and equitable.
Edw. Dren Melick Anthony Rob Morris John F. Johnson Philip Jennings John Jordan J. H. Murrell Thomas B. Atene W. H. Browne Giles Ward

B, no 3
Memo o of Mr E. Martin of Virginia.
Asking a pension under the act of July 7. 1838.
Dec. 11. 1845 Referred (Comm ee on Rev d Pensions.)
July 13. 1846 Rep d v. 1335
4
Drake 99
4 Rev. Pens

To the U.S. Senate, and Ho. of Representatives.
Your memorialist - Elizabeth Martin - of the County of Bedford, and State of Virginia, respectfully represents that she is the widow of George Martin dec d of the County of Campbell, who was in the service of his country as an Express- (and def te of master) rider during the Revo n . war, having served about 8 months in said capacity in conveying intelligence from the Army quartered at the Barracks near Charlottesville Va a to Gen l Lafayette's quarters and other parts of the State - he the said Geo. Martin furnishing his own horse - for which services of himself and horse, he was to receive 10/- per day - and 6 months as a deputy q r master, in providing provision for the Troops stationed at said Barracks for the purpose of guarding the British prisoners taken at Burgoyne's defeat. For the proof of which services of her dec d husband Geo Martin the Committee on pensions are referred to the Aff ts of Howard Bennett of Campbell in the County of Bedford and Mr s Molly Rhodes of Albermarle - and the certificate of Valentine Johnson of Orange as to the fact, that Express-riders were a part of the military establishment of the Country, during the Revo n . war, paid by the Gov t as such, and that a tour of duty, performed as an Express-rider from one part of the Army to another, exempted the person from draft in the militia. Your petitioner therefore asks respectfully that a pension be allowed her on said services of her husband, and that a copy of the evidence filed in her case in the pension office be furnished the Committee, that it may see the grounds of objection to her claim, as well as the strength of her claim to a pension - For which she will ever pray. Elizabeth J Martin
Test
By her att s R. H. Gray.

Elizabeth Martin wife of George Martin. Service as during the Revolution as an Episc. minister - Neither the Service, or marriage satisfactorily proved

Memorial of-
Elizabeth Martin for a pension - on account of the services of her husband act July 7, 1838 George Martin died in the Rev. war.
Jan. 30, 1852. Referred to the Committee on Rev. Pensions.
Jan. 12, 1854. Referred to the Committee on Revolu- tionary Pensions.
1854 Jan 10, c'tor for Rev: Pensions
Febry 20 1856. Referred to the Committee on Rev. Pensions 1856 Dec 12 Bill 597
Mr. Cook of Pa W W Smith

To the Senate and House of Representatives.
Your memorialist respectfully represents, that she has applied at the pension office by declaration for a pension under the Act of Congress of July 7, 1838, which was rejected - not because the evidence of the services of her deceased husband Geo Martin was not satisfactorily proven but because a part of the time he served as an ex-pres- riden for which services we are informed pensions have been allowed to others. Her husband also acted a dep y . D o Master at the Albermarle Barracks - in 1780-81 but for further particulars she refers to the papers on file at the pension office, which she by her att y Robt H Gray of Lynchburg Va requests may be withdrawn and laid before the Committee on pensions for adjudication and report.
Elizabeth Martin by her attorney
Robt H Gray

Ed. ... Aldway ... A. ... ... ...
...
[Faint, mirrored text from the reverse side of the page]

1 POWER OF ATTORNEY.
STATE OF Virginia COUNTY OF Bedford } ss:
Be it known that before the subscriber,
a Justice of the peace for said County personally appeared Elizabeth Martin aged eighty six years, who, being duly cautioned and then sworn in due form of law, states, that she is the widow of George Martin deceased *who was servant in the Revolutionary War and that she believes that she is entitled to whatever is due, and that the United States are still indebted to her, under the laws of Congress, for the pension that was due the said George Martin in his life time or to her as his widow and that for the purpose of investigating and establishing her claims as aforesaid, she appoints TULLY R. WISE, of Washington, D. C., her true and lawful attorney with irrevocable powers, to examine all papers on file, and to do whatever she might do were she personally present to establish her claim.
In witness whereof, I have on this 9 th day November 1852, hereunto signed my name, and affixed my seal.
Elizabeth Martin her mark [SEAL] [SEAL] [SEAL]
Witness: William Rofs Witness: Julian Mullins
Signed, sealed, acknowledged, and sworn to before me; and I further certify, that Elizabeth Martin has always by the community been known as the widow of George Martin deceased
Dated on this 10 th day of November 1852. Ben A Donald J. P.
STATE OF Virginia COUNTY OF Bedford } to wit:
I hereby certify, That Ben A Donald Esq., before whom the foregoing power of attorney was made, and who has thereunto subscribed his name, was at the time of so doing, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn, and that his signature above written is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of Bedford County Court, this 10 th day of November one thousand eight hundred and fifty two
Alban A. Ashurst Clerk.
* State whether an applicant or a pensioner.

State of Virginia, Albemarle County to wit
On this 3 d day of May 1844, before me John J. Bowcock a Justice of the peace in and for said county, personally appeared Mrs. Molly Rod as a resident of said county, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on her oath say - That she is 78 years old, and was well acquainted with George Martin de d of Campbell County the same person who married Elizabeth Jones, daughter of Tho s Jones in Orange County, just after the close of the Rev d war - say in the year 1782. Deponent knows the fact that the said Geo. Martin was in the service, from the county of Orange, during the Rev d war as an Express rider for more than a year, and furnished his own horse - the time of his services being rendered, while the British prisoners was quartered not far from Charlottesville, at what was called the Albemarle Barracks - his, the said Geo. Martin's Father preferring that he should ride Express - he being young - to serving in the ranks. His business was to carry Express orders whenever he was sent, from Charlottesville, and the Barracks, to any other part of the state, or to the Army; and started any time in the night he was ordered. No other said Martin acted also, as a kind of deputy Quarters Master, to prep horses into service, and hunt up cattle, and other provision, for the Troops stationed at the Barracks; and the prisoners taken at Burgoyne's defeat. Deponent has the utmost confidence that said Martin rendered the service above mentioned - from her own knowledge of the time he left home, until his return - and of his own statement of said services in deponent's presence, from time to time. That the said George Martin as above stated married Elizabeth Jones of Orange County; and about 42 years ago, moved to Campbell County where he died as she is informed about 18 years ago. Deponent understood that said Martin was to get five shillings a day for himself and horse, for his services as Express rider. Her

was a young man of good education - was the reason why he was appointed deputy quarter Master - and that she understood he could write an excellent hand.
Molly his X Rodes mark
sworn to and subscribed, on the day and year above written - Before me - John W. Rodes J.P. In presence of - John W. Rodes
Virginia
Albemarle County ss
I Ira Garrett Clerk of the County Court of said County do hereby certify that John J. Burrough whose name is subscribed to the above Certificate is an acting justice of the peace in and for said County duly commissioned and qualified according to law and that his signature thereto is genuine
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County Court this 6 th day of May 1814
Ira Garrett C lerk

State of Virginia, Campbell County to wit
On this 11 th day of June 1844, before me the undersigned a Justice of the peace in and for said county personally appeared Howard Bennett, a respectable resident of said county, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath say - That he is 78 years old and was well acquainted with George Martin dec d . of said county - who married Elizabeth Jones of Orange county - the daughter of Thos. Jones dec d . Deponent knows the fact, that said Geo Martin was in the service of his country from the county of Orange during the Revolutionary war - as an Express rider for more than 6 months, if not 12 months - and furnishing his own horse - which he called Yorrick - of a dark chestnut sorrel colour; said service being rendered while the British prisoners were quartered not far from Charlottesville - at what was called the Albermarle Barracks - he Martin being quite a young man at the time - and could write an excellent hand - and was considered a good English scholar. His business was to carry Express orders where ever he was sent, from the Barracks to any other part of the state, or Army - but mostly had communica- tion with Lafayette's Army. Deponent recollects having seen said Martin while employed in said service, passing and re-passing as an Express rider to and from Lafayette's Army, and the Barracks - and have had frequent conversations with him since on the subject of his services previous to his death which was on, or about the 10 th day of February 1834. That said Martin, for many years previous to his death was a man of no energy - and was disposed to drink - but dep. knows nothing of his trying to get a pension for himself; but if he had, he had not energy enough sufficient to obtain the evidence. Deponent

further recd. That Austin Webb, also rode a spy, at the same time that Martin did. Martin was much thought of by the officers of the Army, said Geo. Martin, and his present widow - maiden name Elizabeth Iris - was married in Orange County in or about the year 1782 - and continued to live together as man, and wife until his death as aforesaid in said County. And that she has remained unwid- -owed ever since to the present time. And is now living in the County of Bedford.
Test
No. 16 Gray.
Howard Bennett
Sworn to, and subscribed on the day and year above written -
Before me - Charles H. Lynch J.P.
„ as def. understood, attested before signed -
„ Lafayette attuned to Lafayette before signed Charles H. Lynch J.P.
his presence of - Geo. Lynch
State of Virginia
Complained County to wit I the undersigned Clerk of the County Court of Campbell County in the State aforesaid do hereby certify that Charles H. Lynch before whom the foregoing affidavit of Howard Bennett was subscribed and sworn to is now and was at the time an acting justice of the peace in and for said County duly Commissioned and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of Office this 20 day of June 1844 in the 68 Year of the Commonwealth
Wm. A. Clement C.K.

State of Virginia
Albemarle County Court Clerk's office seal
I Issa Garrett Clerk of the County Court of Albemarle in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify that I have diligently examined the records of my office from the present date back, that my Office contains returns of Marriages from the year Seventeen hundred and Eighty five (inclusive) to the present date, - and that there is no evidence of marriage between George Martin and Elizabeth Jones -
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court this 20 th day of June 1844.
Issa Garrett CC

No 1. 11536
Elizabeth Marston Marston
Act July 7 th 38
B.
m 83.
L. d. Feb 7 th 34.
Dec 18. 1845
Referred to the Committee on Rev Pensions
July 13. 1846 Rep. 21. to li 1325
December 27. 1847 Referred to the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions
Feb 29. 1848 no 1382
del. doc 7. int. March 29/50
Seated
Rev Pensions
2