Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 18144, for Joseph Stebbins, Connecticut

SERVICE
NUMBER
Conn
Stebbins, Joseph
R. 181 44
CONTENTS

State of Connecticut Town of Norwalk } ss Fairfield County
On this tenth day of April in the year a D one thousand eight hundred and fifty one personally appeared before me a county Judge in and for the county, and State as aforesaid Joseph Stebbins who being duly sworn according to law doth declare and say that he is forty six years old and a Resident of the town, County, and State as aforesaid deponent further declares and says that his father Joseph Stebbins was a captain of the Coast Guards in the Revolutionary War and served along the Coast from the year a D seventeen hundred and seventy six until the year seventeen hundred and eighty; Deponent further declares and says that his father as aforesaid was in the engagement at the time the British destroyed Norwalk, Fairfield - Danbury Ridgefield and that he was in the engagement with General Putnam at Horse Neck Deponent also states that his father Joseph Stebbins aforesaid departed this life on the twenty sixth day of September in the year a D one thousand eight hundred and forty nine and that he was ninety three years old when he died; Deponent further declares and says that the only surviving children of Joseph Stebbins are Jesse and Jeremiah Stebbins  Stebbins Delia Gay, Samuel Stebbins, and himself Joseph Stebbins; deponent further declares that his brothers and Sisters are scattered some living in this State, and some in the State of New York, and that his mother Abigail Stebbins died on the sixteenth day of January in the year a D eighteen hundred and forty seven.

Deponent further declares, and says, that neither his father, or mother, Joseph Stebbins, and Abigail Stebbins, never received, or applied for a pension, previous to their death; and he therefore makes this declaration in order to obtain the arrearages of Pension due his Father Joseph Stebbins as aforesaid under an act of Congress passed on the seventh day of June in the year a-d one thousand eight hundred and thirty two Sworn to and subscribed ( Joseph Stebbins before me on the day and Year first above written )
Edward Taylor Judge of the County Court in & for the County and State aforesaid

State of Connecticut Town of Norwalk Fairfield County } ss
On this tenth day of April a-d one thousand eight hundred and fifty one personally appeared before me a county Judge in and for the County and State as aforesaid Mrs Mary Benedict a resident of the town, County, and State as aforesaid who being first duly sworn according to law doth depose and say that she is eighty five years old, and that she was well acquainted with Joseph Stebbins mentioned in the annexed declaration and that he is the same person therein mentioned, Deponent further declares and says that Joseph Stebbins was a Captain of the Coast Guards or Militia in the War of the Revolution that he entered the service in the year (1776) one thousand seven hundred and seventy six and that Joseph Stebbins aforesaid resided at that time op- -posite her the said deponents fathers House at a town then named Stamford, and now named Darien, Fairfield County, State of Connecticut; and her afterwards resided in Ridgefield, Deponent further declares and says that Joseph Stebbins aforesaid resided for the last two years with his son Joseph Stebbins in the town of Norwalk Fairfield County State of Connecticut and that she departed this life on the twenty sixth day of September in the year a-d eighteen hundred and forty nine at the Residence of his son Joseph Stebbins as aforesaid in the ninety fifth year of his age Deponent further declares and says that the Wife of Joseph Stebbins aforesaid departed this life several years previous to his death and that Jesse, and Jeremias Stebbins, Betty Jackson, Delia Gage Samuel and Joseph Stebbins are the only sur- viving Children of Joseph Stebbins (deceased); Deponent further declares and says that Joseph Stebbins aforesaid

(Deceased) was in the service of the Revolutionary War during the years seventeen hundred and seventy six, seventeen hundred and seventy seven, seventeen hundred and seventy eight, seventeen hundred and seventy nine up to some time in the year seventeen hundred and eighty, and that he was in the engagements at the time the British burnt Norwalk, Fairfield, Danbury and Ridgefield; Deponent further declares and says that she has heard read the declaration sworn to and subscribed by Joseph Stebbins one of the surviving children of Joseph Stebbins (Deceased) and that the same is true to the best of her knowledge and belief, Deponent further states that she is neither pecuniary or otherwise interested in the application of Joseph Stebbins for arrearages of Pension
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year first above written
Henry Mary X Benedict Mark
Edward Taylor Judge of the County Court for Fairfield County
I also certify that the foregoing Deponent is a person whose statements are entitled to full credit and belief, and that she is of the age above stated
Edward Taylor Judge of the County Court for Fairfield County

State of Connecticut Fairfield County ss.
I William H. Noble Clerk of the County-Court within and for said County of Fairfield hereby certify that Edward Taylor Esq is on this tenth day of April A.D 1857 Judge of the County-Court afore said, that I am acquainted with his handwriting and that the signa- tures to the instruments hereto annexed purporting to be his are his genuine official signatures.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court on this 10 th day of April A.D 1857 at Bridge- port in said County -
Wm H Noble Clerk

No 38. 1851
April 26. 1851
Joseph Stebbins dec.
Revolutionary War (No 1)
Heirs claim pension under act of June 1832
Original Capt. Joseph
Set to Mrs. McClellan July 18/57.
J. M. McCalla
No. 6. 9. 14.

Franklin County } State of Connecticut } On this twenty second day of April in the year A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty one personally appeared before me a County Judge in and for the County and State is aforesaid David A Lockwood aged thirty three years and Henry Bury, President of the town county and State aforesaid who being duly sworn according to law doth each and severally depose and say that they are intimately ac- quainted with Joseph Stebbins who hath sworn to and subscribed the annexed declaration deponents also declare and say that they are acquainted with his brothers and Sisters mentioned in the annexed declaration and their names are as follows Jesse, Jeremiah Samuel and Joseph Stebbins, Hettie Jackson, and Selia Gage, some reside in Hidgefield one in Norwalk and some in New York State; Deponents further declare that they are the only surviving Children of Joseph Stebbins (Deceased) and men- tioned in the annexed declaration and that Joseph Stebbins (deceased) as aforesaid departed this life on the twenty sixth day of September in the year A.D. one thousand eight hundred and forty nine; deponents also declare and say that they were acquainted with Mrs Abigail Stebbins wife of Joseph Stebbins (deceased) as aforesaid and that she departed this life in the month of January eighteen hundred and forty seven. Deponents further declare and say that they are not interested pecuniary or otherwise in the application of Joseph Stebbins for arrearages of Pension due his father and that they have heard read the declaration sworn to and subscribed by him and the same is true to the best of their knowledge and belief. (C. David A Lockwood
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year first above written Henry Bury Edward Taylor Judge of the County Court for Franklin County

I also certify that the persons who hath sworn to and subscribed the foregoing deposition are persons whose statements are entitled to full credit and belief
Edward Taylor Judge of the County Court for San Jacinto County

May 27, 1936
Joseph Stebbins-R.18144 BA-J/AWF
Grace L. Stebbins McConnellville Ohio
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request information in regard to Colonel Joseph Stebbins, War of the Revolution.
The data furnished herein were obtained from papers on file in pension claim, R. 18144, based upon the service of Joseph Stebbins during the War of the Revolution. This is the record of the only Joseph Stebbins found on file in the Revolutionary War records of this office. The surname has been searched under similar spellings.
The date and place of birth of Joseph Stebbins are not shown, nor are the names of his parents stated. He married, Abigail; her maiden name is not given, nor are there any details as to their marriage. She died January 16, 1847, date and place of her birth not given. He died September 26, 1849 at the residence of his son, Joseph Stebbins in Norwalk, Fairfield County, Connecticut. It is stated that at the time of his death, he was aged eighty-three or ninety-three years.
The surviving children in 1851 were-Jesse Stebbins, Jeremiah Stebbins, Joseph Stebbins, Samuel Stebbins, Hetty Jackson, and Delia Gage.
On April 10, 1851, Joseph Stebbins then aged forty-six years and living in Norwalk, Connecticut, applied
and living

for pension in behalf of himself and the within named children, on account of the service of his father in the War of the Revolution.
It was alleged in the claim that Joseph Stebbins, while living in Darien, Fairfield County, Connecticut, served at various times from the year 1776 to 1780 or 1781 as sergeant and Captain of Coast Guards under a company Colonels Wells and Beebe, was stationed on the coast at different periods and places between Black Rock and Stamford, that he was in the battles of Danbury, Ridgefield, Horse Neck, Fairfield, and Norwalk.
The claim was not allowed as proof of six months' service, as required by the pension law, was not furnished.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator

State of Connecticut } ss- Probate District of Norwalk }
I George A Drown just sole judge of the Court of Probate in and for the District of Norwalk in the State of Connecticut do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court that Joseph Stebbins died in the town of Norwalk in the State and District aforesaid in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty nine on the twenty sixth day of September and that he left six children and only six children who were living at the time of his death whose names were Joseph Stebbins - Jesse Stebbins - Jeremiah Stebbins - Samuel Stebbins - Hetty Jackson - and Delia Page - I further certify that satisfactory evidence has also been exhibited to said Court that said deceased left no widows him surviving -
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of said Court to be affixed this twenty first day of January A.D. 1853 -
George A Drown just judge of the Court of Probate for the aforesaid District of Norwalk

State of Connecticut Comptroller's Office Hartford April 1 st 1851
I certify that on application for further evidence of the service of Capt. Joseph Stebbins in the War of the Revolution, I have examined the books and documents remaining in this office, and do not find any Pay Roll, or evidence of the length of the service rendered by the said Stebbins.
The account rendered of £85. 13. 2 by Capt. Joseph Stebbins for Coast Guard Service at Norwalk as it appears on Harkness Receipts is under date of February 14 th 1782, but this does not show the time when the service was rendered, but which may have been in some preceding year as the account is continued from 1775 to 1783.
A. G. Pinney Comptroller by Geo. Robinson Clerk

State of Connecticut Comptroller's Office Hartford March 18 th 1851
I certify that on application for evidence of the service of Capt Joseph Stebbins in the war of the Revolution I have examined the Books and Documents remaining in this Office and I do find the name of the said Joseph Stebbins in Haskell's Receipts under the following headings and date
Expense of Coast Guards
   Date  No  Bills & accts  Purposes  Specie      1782 February 14  70  Capt Joseph Stebbins  Coast Guards Norwalk  £ 85. 13. 2   
Rufus G. Pinney, Comptroller

Deposition of Aaron Abbott
No 6. D. m
Additional evidence in the case of Joseph Stebbins, declared before Sup. Ct. Oct 7 th June 1832.
(No 9)
Sept 52 A. J. Evans
Evans of Hunt Washington City

State of Connecticut } ss. County of Fairfield }
Personally appeared before me on this Twenty seventh day of September A.D. One Thousand eight hundred and fifty two Aaron Abbott — who being first duly sworn makes Oath and says, That he is aged Ninety Three — years and upwards and a resident of the Town of New Canaan in said County State, That he was personally acquainted with Joseph Stebbins of Norwalk (deceased) That the said Stebbins was reputed and always believed in the vicinity where he resided to have been a Captain of a company of Coast Guards in the Revolutionary War stationed on the Coast at different Periods between Black Rock & Stamford; That the said Stebbins was stationed with his company at Norwalk in said State at the time of the burning of said Town by the Enemy in the Year A.D. Seventeen hundred and seventy nine; That the said Captain Stebbins resided in his Youth and at the time of entering said Service in Middletown then called, now named Darien in said County & State & That he afterwards moved to Norwalk where he died; That he was reputed & believed by his Neighbours to have acted in said Capacity in said War two years & upwards & That he the Deponent concurs in that opinion and he makes the foregoing statements from his long acquaintance with said Stebbins and having often conversed with him relative to his said Service & with other aged people who served with him and in the same vicinity during said War; Deponent also states That he is disinterested in the application of the heirs of the said Captain Joseph Stebbins of Norwalk (Deceased) & now pending in the Pension Department at Washington City D.C. for arrearages due the said Capt. Stebbins to the date of his death for his said Services; Deponent also states he is acquainted with one of said Heirs Joseph Stebbins now a resident of Norwalk in said County, and State; Deponent further states he is a Revolutionary Pensioner and placed on the Pension Roll of the State of Connecticut, That he was in service at the same time of Capt. Joseph Stebbins & in the same vicinity under Capt. Daniel Jackson who Commanded a company of Artillery in the same vicinity in the Year A.D. Seventeen hundred & seventy nine at the time of the burning of said Town of Norwalk by the Enemy under a Regiment Commanded by Col. Moad; & he is certain he
Given under my hand this day of first above written

saw the p er sons acting in said Capacity, during said year. known to me to be the persons whose names were subscribed before me on the day & year first above written
Aaron his X Abbott mark
Jas Stevens
Notary public
I also certify that the statements of the forgoing deponent are entitled to credit & that I believe him to be of the age within stated.
Jas Stevens
Notary public

STATE OF CONNECTICUT, COUNTY OF FAIRFIELD, COUNTY COURT CLERK'S OFFICE,
} ss.
I, Thomas Robinson CLERK
of the County Court, within and for Fairfield County, and keeper of the Seal thereof, and of the Commission of Justices of the Peace for said County, hereby certify—That
Samuel C. Silliman Esquire, was on the 6 th day of May 185 2 and now is
a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly appointed, commissioned and sworn, having full power and authority by the laws of this State, to take the acknowledgment of Deeds and other instruments, and to certify the same; also to administer Oaths, to take Affidavits and Depositions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; that full faith and credit may, and ought to be given to his official acts and attestations; that I am acquainted with his hand writing, and know that the signature to the instrument hereto annexed, purporting to be his, is his genuine official signature; and that said instrument is executed, acknowledged and duly authenticated according to the laws of this State.
In Testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand, and affix the Seal of said Court, at Norwalk in said County and State, on this 10 th day of May , A.D. 185 2
Thomas Robinson Clerk.
J. P. Evans
(No 5)
copy 52

State of Connecticut Fairfield County } S.S.
Personally appeared before me on this sixth — day of May A.D. eighteen hundred and fifty two William Pennoyer a Revolutionary Soldier who being first duly sworn makes oath & says; That he is aged Eighty eight  seven years ten months and a resident of the county and state aforesaid; That he was personally acquainted with Joseph Stebbins who was a Captain of the Revolutionary War between the United States & Great Britain; That he commanded a company of Coast Guards stationed at Norwalk Connecticut & along the coast; Deponent further states that he verily believes from various circumstances and information said Joseph Stebbins served for over two years as a Captain; but from his own personal knowledge he cannot swear positively to such service of more than fourteen months and he therefore states he did so actually serve fourteen months as said Captain from the month of May A.D. seventeen hundred and seventy nine to the month of July A.D. seventeen hundred and eighty; Deponent makes the foregoing statements from the fact of his having been in the same service at the same time and place or in that vicinity and having frequently seen the said Joseph Stebbins on duty during said period and acting in said capacity; Deponent recollects well of having seen the said Stebbins two or three times at what was formerly called Stamford at the Middlesex Society now called Darien in said county and state; Deponent further states that he is disinterested in the application of Joseph Stebbins of Norwalk for an allowance of a pension due to his father the said Captain Joseph Stebbins deceased.
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day & year first above written.
William Pennoyer
Wm. C. Silliman, Justice of the Peace. The erasures between the 3 rd & 4 th lines from the top were made prior to execution. I also certify that the statements of the foregoing deponent are entitled to credit and that I believe him to be of the age stated in the foregoing deposition. Wm. C. Silliman, Justice of the Peace.

Power of Attorney Capt Joseph Stebbins
H. S. Evans
Evans & Hunt
Atkins -
Commonwealth Court for Suffolk County

Know all Men by these Presents, THAT I Joseph Stebbins a Resident of the town of Norwalk Fairfield county and State of Connecticut have made, constituted and appointed, and by these presents do make, constitute, and appoint F. G. Evans Esq of Washington My true and lawful attorney for me and in my name, place and stead, to prosecute my claims for arrears of Pension, on account of the Revolutionary services of my Father Captain Joseph Stebbins (deceased), & to collect arrears for the certificate for the same
giving and granting unto My said attorney full power and authority to do and perform all and every act and thing whatsoever requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully, to all intents and purposes, as I might or could do if personally present, with full power of substitution and revocation, hereby ratifying and confirming all that My said attorney or his substitute shall lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set My hand and seal the tenth day of April in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty one Joseph Stebbins
Scaled and delivered in the presence of Edward Taylor
On this tenth day of April in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty one personally appeared before me a commission merchant for the county and State of Connecticut Joseph Stebbins and acknowledges the above letter of attorney to be his free act and deed Edward Taylor Judge of the County Court for Fairfield County

State of Connecticut County of Fairfield
S. S. P.
Personally ap- peared before me on this 17 th
day of July A d Eighteen hundred and fifty two (Daniel Dikeman who being first duly sworn) makes oath and says; That he is aged Ninety Years & upwards and and a Resident of said County and State; That he is a United States Pensioner and placed on the Pension Roll of the State of Connecticut That he was personally acquainted with Joseph Stebbins an officer in the Revolutionary War between the United States and Great Britain; That the said Joseph Stebbins father of Joseph Stebbins of Norwalk and for whose said services an application application for a pension is now pending was a Captain of a Company of Coast Guards; That the said Joseph Stebbins (deceased) in the Year A d Seventeen hundred and Seventy eight was commanding said company and keeping guard on the Coast from about the first of April in said Year until November in said Year between Middlesex then called; now called Darien, and Stamford in said County and State and in the Succeeding Year the said Captain Stebbins was stationed on the Coast between Compo and Norwalk from about the first part of the month of March til' the month of October in said Year one Thousand seven hundred and Seventy Nine That the said Captain Stebbins was at the engagement and on duty at the time of the burning of Norwalk by the Enemy; Deponent further states that the said Captain Stebbins was in service in the Year one Thousand seven hundred and Eighty; and to his own personal knowledge the said Stebbins was on duty six months and upwards in said Year from the month of May til' the latter part of November in said Year; Deponent further states that he has been informed and arily believes by other Revolutionary Soldiers that the said Stebbins was on

duty until the summer of the year as Seventeen hundred and  Eighty one but from his own personal knowledge he cannot speak positively of the said Stebbins Service in said Capacity in said War later than the month of November in the year one Thousand seven hundred and eighty; but Deponent is positive that the said Joseph Stebbins was in duty and did actually serve in the Capacity of Captain in said War for the period of seventy months and upwards as aforesaid; Under Col. Wells & Brig. Genl. M'Intosh Deponent makes the foregoing Statements having been in the same engagements and having served nearly all of the time aforementioned in the vicinity of the said Captain Joseph Stebbins deceased and that he is disinterested in the application now pending in the pension Department for a pension on account of the said Stebbins military services in the War of the Revolution and due to Joseph Stebbins and the other Children him surviving Daniel Dikeman
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year first above written
Daniel Dikeman
Solomon V. Taylor The interlineation of Col. Wells & Brig. Genl. M'Intosh made justice of the Peace prior to execution
I also certify that the statements of the foregoing deponent are entitled to credit and that I believe him to be of the age therein stated -
Solomon V. Taylor justice of the Peace
(No 7)

STATE OF CONNECTICUT, COUNTY OF FAIRFIELD, COUNTY COURT CLERK'S OFFICE,
{ Brayant July 26 1852 I, W. H. Noble CLERK
of the County Court, within and for Fairfield County, and keeper of the Seal thereof, and of the Commission of Justices of the Peace for said County, hereby certify—THAT
the  Thomas S. Phelps ESQUIRE, was on the 21 day of July 1852 and now is
a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly appointed, commissioned and sworn, having full power and authority by the laws of this State, to take the acknowledgment of Deeds and other instruments, and to certify the same; also to administer Oaths, to take Affidavits and Depositions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; that full faith and credit may, and ought to be given to his official acts and attestations; that I am acquainted with his hand writing, and know that the signature to the instrument hereto annexed, purporting to be his, is his genuine official signature; and that said instrument is executed, acknowledged and duly authenticated according to the laws of this State.
In Testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand, and affix the Seal of said Court, at Bridgeport in said County and State, on this 20 day of July A. D. 185 52
W. H. Noble CL
July 25
and that I
er of the Peace
(Low)

State of Connecticut S.S. Fairfield County
On this first day of July a-D eighteen hundred and fifty one personally appeared before me David Betts aged fifty seven years, Seth H Gregory aged thirtyfive years and William Weeks aged sixtytwo years who being duly sworn do make oath and say; That they were intimately acquainted with Joseph Stebbins; Deceased That he was reputed and always believed in the neighbourhood where he resided to have been an officer of the Revolution and that they concur in that opinion Deponents also declare and say that the only surviving children of Joseph Stebbins (deceased) are Jesse Jeremiah Samuel and Joseph Stebbins Hettie Jackson and Delia Gage part of them reside in the state aforesaid and part of them in New York State; Deponents also declare that Mrs Abigail Stebbins wife of Joseph Stebbins deceased and mother of said children departed this Life on the 16 th day of January a-D 1847 and that Joseph Stebbins (Deceased) departed this Life on the 26 th day of September a-D 1849; Deponents also state that they are not interested pecuniary or otherwise in the application of said children for annuities due from said father Joseph Stebbins (Deceased) Sworn to and subscribed Before me on the day and year first above written
David Betts Seth H Gregory Wm Weeks
Horace Smith Justice of the Peace
I also certify that the persons who hath sworn to and subscribed the foregoing deposition are entitled to credit and I believe them to be of the age therein stated and that William Weeks is a deacon of the Congregational Church Horace Smith Justice of the Peace

No. 10. 2. 11.
July 51 (No 4)
STATE OF CONNECTICUT, COUNTY OF FAIRFIELD, COUNTY COURT CLERK'S OFFICE,
} ss.
I, Thomas Robinson CLERK
of the County Court, within and for Fairfield County, and keeper of the Seal thereof, and of the Commission of Justices of the Peace for said County, hereby certify—That
Horace Smith
ESQUIRE,
was on the first day of July 1851 at New a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly appointed, commissioned and sworn, having full power and authority by the laws of this State, to take the acknowledgment of Deeds and other instruments, and to certify the same; also to administer Oaths, to take Affidavits and Depositions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; that full faith and credit may, and ought to be given to his official acts and attestations; that I am acquainted with his hand writing, and know that the signature to the instrument hereto annexed, purporting to be his, is his genuine official signature; and that said instrument is executed, acknowledged and duly authenticated according to the laws of this State.
In Testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand, and affix the Seal of said Court, at New Milford in said County and State, on this 29 th day of July A. D. 1851
Thomas Robinson Clerk.

State of Connecticut ss Fairfield County ss
Personally appeared before me on this second day of July, in eighteen hundred and fifty one — Joseph Davis — who being first duly sworn according to law doth depose & say that he was personally acquainted with Joseph Stebbins deceased; and that he knew him from his deponent's youth up to the time of his death; That he was an officer of the Coast Guards in the Revolutionary War between the United States & Great Britain; That he entered the service in the town of Stamford in the year of seventeen hundred and seventy six as a Sergeant that he was afterwards promoted and served as a Captain in the years seventeen hundred and seventy eight, seventy nine, and seventeen hundred and eighty; That he was at the engagements at the time the British burnt Fairfield, Norwalk, and Danbury some of the principal towns on, and near the coast; This deponent further declares and says that Joseph Stebbins who hath made application for an arrearage of Pension due his said father Joseph Stebbins deceased is the son of the identical Joseph Stebbins who performed said service in the War of the Revolution; Deponent also declares and says that the facts he has herein stated are founded from his personal knowledge of said Stebbins and his service as he this deponent was in said War of the revolution at the same time and often saw said Stebbins and saw him when he returned home from the War and that he knows his length of service as a Captain was two years and upwards; Deponent further declares and says that Betsey, Jeremiah, Samuel, and Joseph Stebbins, Hettie Jackson, and Delia Gage, are the only surviving children of said Joseph Stebbins deceased, that part of the children aforesaid reside in Connecticut and some in New York State, Deponent

also declares and says that he is aged eighty eight years and a Resident of said County and State and that he is disinterested in the application of Joseph Stebbins for an arrearage of Pension due his said father Joseph Stebbins Deceased The interlineation between the 7 th & 8 th line from the top was made, as well as in the certificate, before prior to execution. Sworn to and subscribed Joseph Davis before me on the day and year first above written
Horace Smith Justice of the Peace { In said State, & County. }
I also certify that the person who hath sworn to and subscribed the foregoing Deposition is a person whose statements are en- titled to credit and I believe him to be of the age stated in the foregoing Deposition and that he is believed in the neighborhood where he resided to have been a soldier Horace Smith Justice of the Peace { In said State & County }
(No 3)
July 51

STATE OF CONNECTICUT, COUNTY OF FAIRFIELD, COUNTY COURT CLERK'S OFFICE.
ss. Thomas Robinson CLERK
of the County Court, within and for Fairfield County, and keeper of the Seal thereof, and of the Commission of Justices of the Peace for said County, hereby certify—That
Horace Smith ESQUIRE, was on the 2 d day of July 1851
a Justice of the Peace within and for said County, duly appointed, commissioned and sworn, having full power and authority by the laws of this State, to take the acknowledgment of Deeds and other instruments, and to certify the same; also to administer Oaths, to take Affidavits and Depositions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; that full faith and credit may, and ought to be given to his official acts and attestations; that I am acquainted with his hand writing, and know that the signature to the instrument hereto annexed, purporting to be his, is his genuine official signature; and that said instrument is executed, acknowledged and duly authenticated according to the laws of this State.
In Testimony whereof, I hereunto set my hand, and affix the Seal of said Court, at Norwalk in said County and State, on this 29 th day of July A. D. 1851
Thomas Robinson Clerk.

State of Connecticut County of Fairfield } S.S.
On this Thirty first day of July in the Year One Thousand eight hundred and fifty Two personally appeared before me Daniel Weed who being first duly sworn makes Oath and Says; That he is aged Eighty Seven years and upwards and a Resident of the Town of Norwalk in Said County and State; That he was a Soldier of the Revolutionary War between the United States and Great Britain; Deponent also States he was personally acquainted with Joseph Stebbins for whose Military Services in the War of the Revolution an application for a pension is now pending; That the said Joseph Stebbins was a Captain of a Company of Coast Guards in a Regiment of Militia Commanded by Colonel Wells & Becke; Deponent further States that the said Stebbins was guarding the Coast between Compo and Stamford in Said County and State for the Space of Two years and upwards as follows during the year A D Seventeen hun- -dred and Seventy eight, Seventy nine, and A D Seventeen hundred and Eighty; That he was on duty about eight months in each year aforesaid from Spring until fall in each of said years; That he was on duty and in the engagement of the Burning of Norwalk by the Enemy, in the month of July A D Seventeen hundred and Seventy nine; and a portion of the time He was Stationed at what was then Called Middletown Now called Darien in Said County and State; Deponent makes the foregoing Statements having been in the same Service at the same time and in the same vicinity and often conversed with and knew the said Captain Stebbins during said War and That he was on duty and did actually serve as aforesaid for the period of Two years and upwards; Deponent also States that he is disinterested in the application now pending in the pension department for a pension

of pension to the date of the said Captain Stebbins's Death and now due to Joseph Stebbins his Son and the Other Children him surviving; And That he is a United States Pensioner & placed on the Pension Roll of the State of Connecticut. W.D.D. (Ver. 11.1)
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and Year first above written
Isaac Stevens Notary public
I also certify that the Statements of the foregoing Deponent are entitled to full credit and that I believe him to be of the age stated in the foregoing deposition
Isaac Stevens Notary public
(No 6)
July 25 52

State of Connecticut } p.p.
County of Fairfield } ss.
Be it known that before me On this Second day of December A D Eighteen hundred and fifty two Thomas Wilson who being first duly sworn makes oath and says That he is a Revolutionary Pensioner and placed on the Pension Roll of the State of Connecticut; That he is aged Ninety five years and upwards & a resident of Ridgefield, in said County, & State That he was personally acquainted with Captain Joseph Stebbins of Norwalk, Connecticut, deceased; That the said Stebbins was Captain of a Company of Coast Guard in the Revolutionary War; Deponent further States that he was a Private in said Stebbins Company of Militia in the years 1777-1778-1779 & 1780; The exact length of said Service deponent cannot state from the space of time that has elapsed since the Revolution Deponent further States that he is disinterested in an application for an arrearages of a Pension now pending and on file in the Pension Department at Washington City and due to the Heirs of the said Captain Joseph Stebbins Deponent further states that said Company of Coast Guard was stationed on the coast to protect the inhabitants and property from the frequent assaults of the enemy That said Service was a continuous Service; Deponent is positive that he served altogether in said Company Eighteen months & over sworn to and subscribed Thomas Wilson.
before me on the day & year first above written
Shadley's Heir Justice J. Dyer

I also certify that the statements of the foregoing deponent are entitled to full credit and that I believe him to be of the age within stated Thaddeus Keeler Justice of Peace
State of Connecticut { County of Fairfield } Probate Court District of Ridgefield
I hereby certify that Thaddeus Keeler Esq. before whom the foregoing affidavit 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 & Sworn
In testimony whereof I have here- unto set my hand & affixed the Seal of the Probate Court for the District of Ridgefield this Fourth day of December in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Eight Hundred & Fifty Two
Hiram K Scott Clerk of said Court

Deposition of Phebe Camps Cook.
Additional evidence in the case of Joseph Webb vs. decd. Camps Cook Oct 7. June 1833.
(No 8)
Sept 52
F. J. Evans
Evans & Hunt Washington City

State of Connecticut } ss. County of Fairfield }
Personally appeared before me in this County fourth day of September A D Eighteen hundred & fifty two — Phebe Comstock — who being first duly sworn makes oath says; That she is aged eighty nine years and a resident of said County & State; That she was personally acquainted with Joseph Stebbins of Norwalk deceased; that the said Stebbins was reputed and always believed in the neighborhood where he resided to have been a Captain of a Company of Coast Guards in the Revolutionary War and stationed at Norwalk in said County & State at the time said Town was burned by the Enemy in the year A D One thousand Seven hundred and seventy nine; and that he was reputed to have acted in said Capacity two years and upwards; that the said Captain Stebbins resided at the time of entering said service in Darien now called, then named Middlesex in said County & State & he afterwards moved to said Norwalk where he died; Deponent makes the foregoing statements from a long & personal acquaintance with the said Stebbins & having always resided in said Town; & she well recollects the burning of said Town by the British; that she re- sides & always has about two miles from said Village of Norwalk and that she got up in a tree near the house where she could plainly see the smoke rising from the dwellings of said Town & she well remembers that said Stebbins had charge of a company of men at that Period & she has often conversed with him & other Patriots in relation to his said services in said War; Deponent also states that she is disinterested in an application now pending in the Pension department of the City of Washington D C of the heirs of the said Stebbins (deceased) and with one of whom she is acquainted named Joseph Stebbins of Norwalk in said County & State from to subscribed before
Phebe her Comstock Mark
Jas Stevens Notary Public
I also certify that the statements of the foregoing deponent are entitled to credit and that I believe her to be of the age within stated.
Jas Stevens Notary Public

Comptroller's office Hartford Ct. Sep. 10 th 1785
Sir,
Your letter of the 8 th ult. addressed to the Comptroller has been received.
I have referred to the entry in Haskells Receipts, to Capt. Joseph Stebbins, and find it to correspond with the certificate given from this Office, It does not appear by this entry whether the £85. 13. 2 was for Capt. Stebbins services, or for the service of his company, but I have found the original entry on the Paytable Day Book which is as follows, under date of Feb ry 1782, "War Dr To Ord n on Treasury W ts Capt. Jo s Stebbins Pay Militia £85. 13. 2." From this it would appear that the money was drawn to pay his men, and not for his own services only.
There was a great amount of service performed by the Militia of this State from 1776 to 1780 of which there are no Pay Rolls to be found here, they having been sent to Washington at the time of the settlement made between the United States and the State of Connecticut

and which was not returned to this Office. Applications are frequently made for evidence of service in the war of the Revolution, in cases where there is no doubt that years of service was performed in the Militia, but of which no evidence is found here. The fact that evidence of Militia service is not found in this Office, should be no bar to granting a pension, where other evidence sufficient to establish the claim is furnished.
In the case of Capt. Stubbins, it is very probable that he served in the years from 1776 to 1780 but not for the whole time, as the Militia were seldom called out for more than six months at a time, and the terms of service were generally for periods less than six months.
There were probably few cases, where a soldier performed continuous service in the Militia, for a period so long as a year, though there may have been many where the same person served for portions of each year during the war.
Our Rolls of Militia service are very imperfect and we can seldom find evidence of all the service claimed to have been performed. I am sorry that

I am not able to give you more definite information respecting this matter.
I am Sir, with great respect your obedt Servt.
R. G. Pinney Comptroller by Geo. Robinson Clerk

State of Connecticut Comptroller's Office Hartford Nov 16 th 1832
I certify, that on application for further evidence of the service of Joseph Stebbins as a Captain in the war of the Revolution, I have re-examined the documents in this Office, and do not find any evidence of his service in addition to that heretofore certified by the Comptroller.
The "Journal of the Governor and Council of Safety," which is in this office, shows the appointment of many officers, and among them that of Joseph Stebbins, but it affords no evidence of the time, or duration of the service which any of said officers may have performed.
A large portion of the documents, containing evidence of the service performed by the Militia of Connecticut was sent to the Seat of Government some time after the close of the war of the Revolution, and said documents have never been returned to this office or State, and the fact that evidence, in any case, of Militia service, is not found in this office, should be no bar to a claim, which is apparently just, and well supported by other proof.
R. G. Pinney, Comptroller by Geo. Robinson Clerk.

Sir,
Washington, Aug 7 th 1852.
We herewith enclose additional evidence in the case of Capt n Joseph Stebbins, dec d Connecticut, Susp d Act ts yr June 1832.
We think that the additional testimony which we have filed will be sufficient to meet the objections which have heretofore been urged by the Pension Office.
We filed additional evidence, on the 13 th May 1852, July 23 rd 1852, and this day. —
Very respectfully Evan J. Hunt.
James E Heath Esq d Bureau of Pensions.

Oct 4/52 Joseph Hattings Additional evidence
Oct 7/52

Washington Oct 5 th 1852.
Sir.
We herewith enclose additional evidence in the case of Joseph Robbins, deceased, Virg. the depositions of Aaron Abbott and Phebe Barnstock. We hope that this will be sufficient to authorise the admission of the claim, as the evidence now presented fully meets the requirements of your letter of the 14 th ult o . in which you say, that, "If the testimony of living witnesses cannot be had it must at least be shown clearly, that he has always had the reputation of having acted in the capacity of Captain of Coast Guards!"
Very respectfully Ebenezer D. Stanton
James E. Heath Esq d Counsel of Petitioner.

Washington, May 13 th 1852.
Sir.
We herewith enclose the affidavit of William Pennayes, a Revolutionary soldier, to sustain the case of Capt Joseph Stebbins, now on the suspended files of your Office. We hope that this, together with the evidence now on file will be sufficient to authorise the allowance of the claim.
Very respectfully Ezra G. Hant.
J. E. Heath, Esq. Caretaker of Pensions.

Aug 2 1851 Capt Stebbins here Pension claim
add proof (no 2)
Aug 51
In M McCalla

State of Connecticut } Fairfield County }
Personally appeared before me on this thirty first day of July A D eighteen hundred and fifty one Joseph Stebbins who makes oath that the reason his Father never applied for a pension previous to his death, was on account of his being aged and infirm, he often conversed about the revolutionary War and remarked that he ought to be rewarded for his services in said War as well as many others; but, owing to the ignorance of the law not knowing how to apply or what proof was required in order to establish his Claim he never made application or have any one interceded in his behalf. Sworn to and subscribed Joseph Stebbins before me on the day and year first above written
Jas Stevens Notary public

Office of N. S. Dis. Atty Hartford Conn. 22 Feby. 1883
Sir,
I have this day your favn of 21 st ult. covering copies of Pension papers relating to the appli- cation of Jos. Stebbins, which shall have my immediate atten- tion -
Very Respectfully Yours Obt. Servt J. C. Perkins Dis. Atty.
To Hon. J. C. Heath Comm ee of Pensions

Washington
Nov. 22. 1852
Sir,
My attention has been called to the claim, pending before your department, by the heirs of Capt. S d Stebbins of Conn t for a pension. The parties reside in the District which I represent, and tho' I have not had time to give the subject a thorough personal examination, yet upon a representation of the case on which I rely, it seems to me, now, upon all the evidence, a strong case for allowance, and I respectfully ask that the case may receive a careful reexamination, by the department, which I trust Stebbins will result in a full conviction of the justice of the claim, and its unhesitating allowance.
Yours very respectfully O. S. Seymour
Hon Jas E Heath Comm r of Pensions,

Washington, Nov. 9 th 1852. Hon. A. H. H. Stuart Secretary of the Interior. Sir!
We have to request that you write a note for a reflag, and the papers in the case of Joseph Stebbins dep. Connieticut, suspended Oct 7 th June 1832.
We found an appeal on the ground that the evidence furnished is sufficient to authorize the admission of the claim, and that we have furnished the previous evidence required by the Comr of Pensions in his letter of the 14 th  October September 1852, and which was inclosed in our letter of the 5 th October last, viz: the depositions of Aaron Abbott and Phebe Canstock.
Very respectfully Ezra G. Hunt.

Office of U. S. Dist Atty Hartford (Conn) 7 th March 1850.
Sir,
I enclose you report of H. T. Blake Esq. dated 5 th inst. de pension claim of Jos. Stobbin in service of his father Jos. Stobbin.
I await your instructions relating thereto —
Respectfully Your Obt. Servt J. C. Perkins Dist Atty
To Hon. J. O. Heath Comm. of Pensions.

Bridgeport March 7 th 1853 Hon J. C. Perkins U. S. Dis Atty
Dr Sir -
Since my last letter relating to information received respecting the claim of Joseph Stebbins I have heard from T. A. Comstock the statement of Mr Aaron Abbott of New-Canaan regarding his deposition which set forth his (Mr. A. S.) service in the same line on the same part of the coast and his personal recollection of Stebbins serving - particularly specifying periods & places of the service - officers &c - According to Mr Comstock - Mr Abbott says that he told Taylor when he called that he knew a man of the name mentioned who formerly lived in Ridgefield & moved to Norwalk. That if so Stebbins lived in Norwalk or Darien his impression was that he might possibly have been in the service as the law required the service of every man in case of alarm but that he had no personal knowledge of his service nor any recollection of seeing him on service - He says that the deposition here set forth was never read to him and that his statement was as above - His son & two others of his family recollect the conference & confirm the old mans recollection
Respectfully. A. S. Blake -

Aug. 1. 1857
Capt. Jos. Stebbins du Heis claim pension.
add proof
M m McCalla
(Faint mirrored text from the reverse side of the page) Jos. Stebbins claim pension add proof M m McCalla

Washington Aug. 1 '57
To Com. of Pensions Sir,
I enclose two depositions as additional proof in the pension claim of the heirs of Capt. Jos. Stebbins dec d . and request they may be considered.
Respy
J. M. McCalla
[Faint, mirrored text from the reverse side of the page] J. M. McCalla Washington D.C. Aug. 1st 1857
[Faint, mirrored text from the reverse side of the page] J. M. McCalla

Office of R. S. Dis Atty. Hartford (Con)
12 th March 1853.
Sir,
Enclosed is copy of a letter recently rec d from H. T. Blake Esq. with further information respecting the pension claim of Joseph Stebbins -
Very Respectfull Your Ob. Servt J. C. Perkins Dis Atty.
To Hon J. E. Heath Comm ee of Pension

Bridgeport March 5, 1853
F. C. Perkins Esq. U. S. Dist Atty
Dear Sir -
Yours of yesterday inquiring about the Stebbins claim has just been rec d . I have made investigation into this case by personal inquiry of most of the deponents &c - and should have reported upon it but that I was awaiting replies to letters requesting information of two in distant parts of the County whom I wished to see before the case should be reported on as thoroughly examined. Not having received those replies and in view of your letter I will state what I have learned and give hereafter whatever new , may appear of importance ..
Joseph Stebbins in his application for arrearages of pension due his father Joseph Stebbins. States his father was Captain was in several battles specified - served from 1776. to 1780. & died in 1849 aged 93. He also gives the date of his mother's death & declares himself, and five others sole surviving children.
The deponents are as follows. Mary Benedict of Norwalk. - states she knew Capt Stebbins when Captain - that he lived opposite her at the time - that he was in the various battles, states that he served from 1776. to 1780 - that he died in 1849 aged 93 & that she has heard read Joseph Stebbins statement & the same is true.
The Comptroller gives an extract from an act between the State of Connecticut & Capt Joseph Stebbins of the

Coast Guard. Norwalk - dated Feb. 14, 1782.
David A Lockwood & Henry Beers . jointly testify that the children mentioned are the only survivors. No residence being stated for these deponents I have not found them.
David Betts - Seth K. Gregory - & M rs Meeks - testify that they knew Jos  Stebbins - that he was reported & commonly believed to have been an officer of the Revolution & that the children mentioned are all the survivors. Sworn to & subscribed before Horace Smith. - -
Joseph Davis - testifies to his knowledge of Service & surviving children &c - -
Danl. Dikeman - testifies to length of Service &c -
Danl. Weed do. do.
Phebe Comstock do. do.
Aaron Abbot of Newbanaan. do. do. this is one of the witnesses of whom I have written for information
Geo. A. Davenport - Judge probate Norwalk - certifies to death of Jos. Stebbins in 1849 - & to surviving children
Thomas Wilson 95 yrs of Age - of Ridgfield testifies that he was a private in Capt Stebbins Company from 1777. to 1780. - I have written to learn whether this old man is living & rational -
M rs Pennoyer - was on Service at same time as Capt Stebbins - saw him frequently, &c &c.
Some of these witnesses it will be seen are entirely unreliable even if their depositions have not been altered. Joe Davis & M rs Pennoyer. have both been shown never to have been in the War. Danl. Dikeman - Phebe

Comstock & Dan d Weed - are entirely superannuated & have given other depositions notoriously untrue - their faculties being almost entirely lost. - I have not thought it necessary therefore to see any of these. Those whom I have called upon are the following -
Joseph Stebbins - who on hearing read the claim said it had been altered in several respects. He states that he told Taylor he never knew that his father was a Captain never heard of his having been so - that he did not know the length of his service but thinks he states he supposed it to have been from 1778. to 1781 - though he cannot say positively - That he did not state him to have been in any battles except one at Norwalk - that he did not state his age positively at the time of his death - but told Taylor he did not know it exactly - that he knew it was 83 at least , & how much more he could not say (Taylor puts it 93.) Mr Stebbins is an estimable man though poor and believes his father to have been actually entitled to a pension for Rev d services. - -
Mrs Mary Benedict - detected alterations in her statement very similar to those in Stebbins' - She said that Taylor called for her deposition & was very particular in his inquiries - especially as to whether Jos Stebbins was not a Captain - Mrs B. (whose recollection is confirmed by her Daughter present at the time) told him she was not a Captain when she knew him & she never knew that he was afterwards. She knew nothing more of his Rev d service except his being in the Guard for two or three months - She never knew & did not

state that he had been in any  battles . She did not know & did not state his age at the time of his death. She did not hear Joseph Stebbins deposition read over & therefore of course did not vouch for its truth. Mrs B. says she recollects Jos. Stebbins as a young man of about 16 who came down from Ridgefield with his company to stand guard on the Coast where he remained two or three months. This is all she can say respecting his Revolutionary Services. -
David Betts & Seth K. Gregory informed me that they knew nothing more of Mr Stebbins than what they learned by being neighbors to him the last two years of his life. Taylor called on them to learn what they could say & they told him what the paper sets forth - except that they knew nothing about his being an Officer of the Revolution. They signed the paper as did Mr Weeks (now dead) but that Taylor was alone - and there was no oath whatever taken then or ever after by them.
I called on the Son of Mr Daniel Weed, but was informed by him that his father is at the point of death & totally unable to answer any inquiries. -
I am informed by Mr Harry Smith - Supt. of the Norwalk & Danbury R. R. and formerly a resident of Ridgefield that he has always known the Joseph Stebbins here spoken of who lived at Ridgefield and that he never heard of his being an officer or soldier of the Revolution. He recollects an old man who died years ago who was always called Capt Joseph Stebbins and who was the father or uncle of this Stebbins. The probability is that he is the one referred to in the Comptrollers Certificate. -
Should I hear anything farther of importance I will immediately write you. -
Respectfully
H. T. Blake

Bridgeport March 5 th 1853 J. C. Perkins Esq. N. S. Dist. Atty
Dear Sir.
Yours of yesterday enquiring about the Stebbins claim has just been recd. I have made investigation into this case by personal en- quiry of most of the deponents & should have re- ported upon it but that I was awaiting replies to letters requesting information of two in distant parts of the country whom I wished to see before the case should be reported on as thoroughly examined. Not having recd these replies and in view of your letter I will state what I have learned & give hereafter whatever may appear of importance.
Joseph Stebbins is his application for arrears of pension due his father. Joseph Stebbins states his father was Captain was in several battles specified served from 1776 to 1780 & died in 1849  1849 aged 93. He also gives the date of his mother's death & declares himself five others sole surviving children.
The deponents are as follows Mary Benedict of Norwalk states she knew Captain Stebbins when Captain that he lived opposite her at the time that he was in the various battles stated. That he served from 1776 to 1780 - that he died in 1849 aged 93 & that she had
copy of H. O. B. letter to Pension Office 1853 He claims to be the only surviving child

has heard read Joseph Stebbins statement & the same is true The Comptroller gives an extract from an act between the state of Connecticut & Captain Joseph Stebbins of the Coast Guard. Norwalk dated Feb. 14 - 1782
David N. Lockwood & Henry Beers jointly testify that the children mentioned are the only survivors - no residence being spated for the deponents I have not found them - David Betts Seth K. Gregory & W m Meeks testify that they knew Jos. Stebbins that he was reported & commonly believed to have been an officer of the Revolution & that the children mentioned are all the survivors. Sworn to & subscribed before Horace Smith - Joseph Davis testifies to his knowledge of service & surviving children &c.
Daniel Dikeman testifies to length of service &c.
Daniel Wrea " do " " do " " " "
Abel Comstock - " do " - " do " - " - " -
Aaron Abbot of New Canaan - do - do - this is one of the witnesses of whom I have written for information.
George H. Davenport Judge Probate Norwalk certifies to death of Jos. Stebbins in 1849 & to surviving children.
Thomas Wilson 90 years of age of Ridgefield testifies that he was a private in Capt. Stebbins company from 1777 to 1780
I have written to learn if this old man is living & rational W m Pennycuick was on service at same time as Capt.
Stebbins saw him frequently &c. &c. -
Some of these witnesses it will be seen are entirely unreliable even if their depositions have not been altered.

Isa Davis & Mr Pennoye have both been shown never to have been in the war. Daniel Dickerson - Phebe Lemstock & Daniel Weed are entirely supernatural & have given other depositions notoriously untrue their faculties being almost entirely lost -
I have not thought it necessary to see any of these. Those whom I have called - upon are the following - Joseph Stebbins - who upon hearing read the claim said it had been altered in several respects. He states that he told Taylor he never knew his father was a Captain never heard of his having been so - that he did not know the length of his service but thinks he stated he supposed it to have been from 1778 to 1781 though he cannot state positively - That he did not state him to have been in any battles except one at Norwalk. That he did not state his age positively at the time of his death but told Taylor he did not know it exactly. That he knew it was at least & how much more he could not say (Taylor puts it 95.) Mr Stebbins is an estimable man though poor & believes his father to have been actually entitled to a pension for Rev t services -
Mrs Mary Benedict detected alterations in her statement very similar to those in Stebbins she said that Taylor called for her deposition - was very particular in his enquiries especially as to whether Is a Stebbins was not a Captain - Mrs B. (whose recollection is confirmed by her Daughter present at the time) told him she was not a Captain when she knew him & she never that he was afterwards - she knew nothing more of his Rev t service except his being in the Guard for two or three months - she never knew & did not state that he had been in any battles - she did not

know & did not state his age at the time of his death — She did not hear Joseph Stettins deposition read over & therefore of course did not vouch for its truth. Mrs B. says she rec- ollects Jos. Stettins as a young man of about 16 who came down from Ridgefield with his company to stand guard on the coast where he remained two or three months —.
This is all she can say respecting his Revolutionary services —
David Bette & Seth K. Gregory, informed me that they knew nothing more of Mr Stettins than what they learned by being neighbours to him the last two years of his life —
Taylor called on them to learn what they could say & they told him what the paper sets forth except that they knew nothing about his being an officer of the Revolution. They signed the paper as did Mr Weeks (now dead) but that Taylor was alone & there was no oath whatever taken there or ever after by them —.
I called on the son of Mr Daniel Weed but was informed by him that his father was at the point of death & totally unable to answer any enquiries —
I am informed by Mr Harry Smith — Supt. of the Norwalk & Danbury R.R., and formerly a resident of Ridgefield that he has always known the Joseph Stettins here spoken of who lived at Ridgefield and that he never heard heard of his having been an officer or soldier of the Revolution — He recollects an old man who died years ago who was always called Captain Joseph Stettins & who was the father of one  uncle of this Stettins — The probability is that he is the one referred to in the Comptrollers Certificate.
Should I hear anything farther of importance I will not immediately write you —
Respectfully
H. J. Blake —

W. Davis swears to over 2 yrs service
Pennoyer swears to 14 mos certain, but believes much more
Joseph Stebbins
Lepe Stebbins
Jeremiah Stebbins
Samuel Stebbins
Hetty Jackson
Delia Gage
children
He died 26 Sep 1849

The papers in this case were returned from the Office of the Secy of Int, at the because additional evidence was procured; after the appeal was taken, Upon an examination of the claim I am satisfied the claim should be allowed for 12 months as Capt. It is impossible to procure Record evidence of the duration of his service, Evidence of his appointment is furnished, Wm Pennoyer a pensioner, swears positively to 14 months, He is a full pensioner , for the coast guard service, Tho? Wilson swears that he served under Stebbins , Wilson is a pensioner, we find his name, upon the Rolls, as such, but can not find his papers, Other witnesses swear to 2 years & more, I have taken up the the smallest amount,
J Triplett
Pennoyer does not profess to have served in the same Company with Stebbins, but in the same neighborhood, and upon consulting his own declaration he seems to have enlisted for the third time in March 1779 & was taken prisoner the last of July '80, He says he knows Stebbins served from May 79 14 months which would bring him to the period of his imprisonment,

Washington, July 23 d 1852. Sir,
We herewith enclose additional evidence in the case of Capt Joseph Stebbins of Conn. Susp. Act of June 1832.
We filed additional evidence on the 15 th May last, which has not been acted on.
The evidence now filed, with that now on the files of the Pension Office, we think should be sufficient to cause the allowance of the claim.
Now, we request the examining Clerk to take the map of Connecticut, and trace out Fairfield County, and then look into the history of the war, and he will find that it was constantly exposed to the inroads of the enemy, as it lay immediately on Long Island Sound.
There was no County in Connecticut, which suffered so much, having two of her large villages burned by the enemy, and as a consequence her troops were almost constantly under arms, guarding the shores, as well over

as furnishing many men for the Army in other places.
Very respectfully Evan J. Hantz
James E. Heath, Esq. Chair of Penshaw.

(Copy.)
Pension Office,
November 6 th 1852.
Gentlemen:
I have carefully considered the testimony submitted by you in the case of Joseph Stebbins, dec d on the 7 th of August last, and your comments upon my letter of the 18 th of July, 1851, to John M. McCalla, Esq., and you are informed, that my opinion of the insufficiency of the testimony to establish the service claimed, remains unchanged; for, if rendered as alleged, it could be readily established by testimony which would be deemed conclusive, as we know that the Coast Guard service of Connecticut was rendered under the authority of the Council of Safety of that Colony, and that minutes of its proceedings are in the Comptroller's office at Hartford. That body not only authorized the raising of the troops for the protection of the coast, and determined how their service should be rendered, but recommended the appointment of the officers to command them. If, therefore, the service of Stebbins was continuous, or rendered alternately, the minutes of the Council would contain some evidence of it. But we are of opinion that Stebbins's service was only temporary, and on the occasion of an alarm, when a company was hastily organized, and dismissed after the emergency had passed. This opinion is fortified by the Comptroller's certificate, which shows only one payment to Stebbins on account of the Coast

Guard service, of a company under him , [February 14 th 1782,] though Haskell's receipts for payments for that description of service, cover a period of eight years! An additional reason for this conviction is found in the fact, that, though Stebbins lived until 1849, he never applied for a pension. The reasons assigned for his failure to apply, are not satisfactory; for his age and infirmities furnished strong grounds for an effort in his behalf by his friends, if unable to apply himself; and there were, doubtless, persons in his neighborhood who were fully acquainted with the pension laws, who would have enlightened him as to their provisions, and especially if he was entitled for service as a captain.
The parole testimony is entitled to no consideration whatever; for it appears, that Daniel Webb, who testifies to Stebbins's service in 1778, 1779, and 1780, did not himself enter the service until May 1 st 1781, when he was but sixteen years old, and that nearly the entire service claimed by Daniel Dikeman, another witness, was rendered out of the borders of Connecticut. Pennoyer's statement is too vague and general, and conflicts with that of the other witnesses.
If the claim is further urged, record evidence of the time of Stebbins's appointment, and the duration of his service, must be produced; for none other will be deemed sufficient, in the

absence of a commission or pay roll, to establish his rank as a commissioned officer, and to remove the impression that he held merely a temporary command.
I am, very respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt,
(Signed,)
H. Keeth, Commissioner
Messrs. Evans & Paul, Present.

Rev.
Washington, Decr 14 th 1852.
We have requested the Secretary of the Interior, to return to your Office the papers in the case of Joseph Stebbins, dec d . Can't susp d , Act June 7 th 1832, upon which we took an appeal, believing in a revision of the testimony, in connection with the additional evidence, herewith enclosed, that you will allow the claim.
We think, that those who have heretofore examined the claim, have not properly weighed the testimony, and in fact that it has been prejudiced by previous adjudications.
That Joseph Stebbins served as a captain, in the Connecticut Coast guards, cannot be questioned. The records at Hartford Conn, establishes this fact. The only question to be decided is, how long did he serve?
The record evidence was destroyed in the possession of the General Government

and to require its production, is demanding an impossibility.
But we prove by five individuals who were born and reared in the same neighborhood, and who lived near neighbors during life, and who were in the Army, and whose names are now on the Pension roll, that Joseph Stetson served as Captain more than two years.
There is also, other testimony of aged and respectable people, who testify from personal knowledge, that said Stetson, was in the Army, and that he was always known and recognized by some as having performed most service in the Connecticut Coast guards during the war of the Revolution.
Very respectfully Evans J. Hunt.
James E. Heath, Esq. Counsel of Pensioners

Evans & Scott Dec 13, 1852
Rel: to the case of Joseph Stabben's
S
Keepy refer to the Com. of Pensions together with the reports & papers on the Widow of for reexamination.
Disb. of Pensions. Dec. 14/52.
Agree

Washington, Dec. 13 th 1852.
How A. A. A. Stuart Secy of the Interior. P. Sir.
The papers of Joseph Stebbins, deceased, having been transmitted to your Office, on an appeal from the decision of the Board of Pensions, and having received important evi- dence relating to the case, since taking said appeal we respectfully re- -quest that the papers be returned to the Board of Pensions, that the same may be re-examined.
Very respectfully Evans J. Stant.

Washington, Aug 7 th 1852.
Sir,
In order to place before you in its proper light the case of Capt Joseph Stebbins, I enclose a copy of your letter, to Genl. McCabe of the 18 th July 1851, and notice the several objections.
Very respectfully Evan P. Hunt.
J. E. Heath, Esq Bureau of Persian
Persian Office July 18 th 1851.
Sir,
The declaration of the heirs of Joseph Stebbins, dec d , under Act of 7 th June 1832 has been examined and filed. Without 1. Evidence of some evidence of the service alleged of service } it cannot be expected, that the claim should be allowed.

The certificate of the Comptroller, 2 Length of service { although evidence that Capt Stebbins performed some service, affords no evidence of the length of that service; nor, is it at all shown that the Joseph 3. Identity { Stebbins mentioned in that certificate is the individual, who was the father of the applicants. You do not only do not furnish any record and 4 Record evidence { documentary evidence of his service, but you fail to furnish even traditional evidence, such as that he was always 5 Reputation { reputed in the neighborhood, in which he resided to have been an officer of the Army in the Revolutionary War. To perfect this claim 6 Documentary Evidence { you must furnish some documentary evidence of his service, such as his commission, or the authority under which he acted, together 7. Parole testimony { with the evidence of those who served with him, as to the time, extent, and duration of his service 8. Explains the delay { It appears from the evidence of Capt Stebbins of and that the soldier lived up to 1849. applying in his lifetime if he performed the service

alleged by his son, it is strange that he did not apply for the benefit of the Act of 7 th June 1832, in his life time.
The reason should be given"
Very respectfully &c. (Signed) H. I. Evans for Caman?
J. M. McCalla Esq Present.
Objections answered.
1. Proven. Camptrollers certificate, payment as Captain, and parole testimony. 2. Proven. 2 years, 1778, 79, 80, Spring and fall, 8 months in each year, other previous and subsequent service in addition. 4. Camptrollers certificate, pay as Captain. 5. Proven 6. Name in existence, if not essential positively 7. Proven by four Revolutionary soldiers, giving exact tours &c. 8. Reason given.

Pension Office,
November 15 th 1852.
Sir:
I have the honor to make the following report in the case of Joseph Stebbins, dec d . a claim in right of whose alleged service in the war of the Revolution, has been filed under the Act of June 7 th 1832. The claim is asserted for two years' service in the Coast Guards of Connecticut, in the grade of captain, from 1776 to 1780. It is resisted by this Office, on the ground that neither the commission of the party on behalf of whom the claim is set up, satisfactory evidence that he ever held a commission, duration of service, or the authority under which it was rendered, has been filed in this Office. Indeed, I have seldom examined a case, in which the alleged service of a commissioned officer, for such duration of time, was so feebly supported. But, on the 14 th of September last, a letter was addressed to Messrs. Evans & Fant, the present agents in the case, which, after reciting the objections to the admission of the claim, stated, that, "if the testimony of living witnesses [of the service] cannot be had, it must, at least, be shown clearly, that he [Stebbins] has always had the reputation of having acted in the capacity of a Captain of the Coast Guards." On the 5 th of October last, Messrs. Evans & Fant filed testimony in compliance with that requisition, which they regard as sufficient to authorize this Office to issue a certifi-

cate to the children of the deceased, for the alleged service as a commissioned officer. I do not regard said testimony as conclusive, and it could not have been thus regarded by the clerk who examined the case. The objections to its admission are fairly stated in the accompanying copy of a letter addressed to the Agents on the 6 th of November, inst., and until the evidence therein required is produced, I cannot consent to admit the claim.
The papers numbered from 1 to 10, inclusive, are herewith enclosed.
I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt,
J. E. Heath Commissioner,
G. W.
Hon. A. H. H. Stuart, Secretary of the Interior.

69 Evans Plant Sept 14/52

194
Pension Office Sep 14 1852
Sir's
The claim of Joseph Stebbins dec d of Connecticut has been again examined and I have to inform you that the evidence of the length of his service is not satisfactory as Capt is not stated . He is credited with upwards of 85 £ paid him in 1782. The certificate of the Comptroller of Connecticut shows a payment made to a Captain bearing his name of upwards of 85 £ in 1782, — The declaration states, that he was only in service to 1780, though the Comptroller admits, that the payment might have been made for service performed in '79 or earlier, — This 85 £ would only show a service of about 7 months, admitting that it was paid to him for his services, but the Comptroller is of opinion that it was paid to him for his company.
Mr Pennoyer fixes his services at 14 months as Captain, but he can hardly be presumed to know the length of his service when according to his own statement, though he was in the

Same kind of service as Stubbs, yet of course, was under other officers, and did not serve a day under Stubbs, and was frequently out of service, for he served several terms of 3 months, and then went out of service, and enlisted again and served other 3 months, and went out and again enlisted.
Of the testimony of living witnesses, can not be had, it must, at least, be shown clearly that he has always had the reputation of having acted in the capacity of Captain of Coast Guards.
Major Evans & Fleet Present,

Evans & Shaw
Oct 1. 1852.

Pension Office,
Oct 1. 1852.
Gent.
In refer to your letter of the 23 rd ult: enclosing the affidavit of Saul Lickerman in the case of Joseph Stebbins of Connecticut under the Act of 7 June 1832, you are referred to my letter to you of the 14 th ult. The additional evidence filed by you does not change the condition it was then in.
Messrs Evans & Dant Present,

Evans & Faint Nov 6, /52

1. Tennia Office, Nov. 6, 1852,
Gentlemen,
I have carefully considered the testimony submitted by you in the case of Joseph Stebbins, dated on the 7 th of August last, and your comments upon my letter of the 18 th of July 1851, to John M. M c Calla, Esq., and you are informed that my opinion of the misapprehension of the testimony to establish the service claimed, remains unchanged; for, if rendered as alleged, it could be readily established by testimony which would be deemed conclusive, or in other words that the coast guard service of Connecticut was rendered under the authority of the Council of Safety of that Colony, and that minutes of its proceedings are in the Comptroller's office at Hartford. That body not only authorized the raising of the troops for the

probab ly of the court and  has determined how their service should be rendered, but recommended the appointment of the officer to command them. If, then, for the service of the  the Steubenville, now  now , continues, or renders alternately, the minutes of the business unit contain some evi- dence of it. But in view of opinion that Steubenville's service was only temporary, and on the occasion of an alarm, when a company was hastily organized, and dissolved after the emergency had passed. This opinion is fortified by the book- bills, collected, which shows only one payment to Steubenville, on account of the cost share of a company under him Feb 14, 1782 His Haskell's Receipts for payments for that description of service, cover a period of several eight years. An additional reason is also for this connection is found in the fact

Not, tho' Stebbins, lived until 1848, he never applied for a pension, and  that The reasons assigned for his failure to apply are the strongest not satisfac- tory; for his age and infirmities fur- nished strong grounds for an effort in his behalf by his friends, if unable to apply himself; and there were, doubtless, persons in his neighborhood who were fully acquainted with the pension laws who would have enlightened him as to their provisions - and especially of the no attestation for service as a captain.
The probate testimony is entitled to no consideration whatever - for it appears that Daniel Webb, who testifies to Stebbins' service in 1778, 1779 & 1780, did not him- self enter the service until May 1, 1781, when he was but sixteen years old, and that nearly the entire service claimed by Daniel Dikeman, another witness, was rendered out of the service of Connecticut. Pen Penfield's statements

too vague and general, and confuses into that of the other notaries.
If the claim is further urged that evidence of the time of Stebbins' appoint- ment and the duration of his service must be produced; for none other can be deemed sufficient, in the absence of a commission or pay roll, to es- tablish his appointment as a commissioned officer, and to remove the impression that he held merely a temporary com- mission.
Yours Truly & Fast, Punt

Penna Offc. Nov. 15. 1852.
Sir, I have the honor to make the following report on the case of Joseph Stubbins, and a claim in right of whom alleged service in the War of the Revolution, has been filed under the Act of June 7, 1832. The claim is operated for two years, service in the coast guards of Connecticut, on the ground of captivity , from 1776 to 1780. It is resisted by this office on the ground that neither the commission of the party on behalf of whom the claim is set up—satisfactorily evidence that he ever held a commission, duration of service in the authority under which it was alleged to have been rendered, has been filed in this office. Indeed, I have seldom examined a case, in which the alleged service of a commission for such duration of time, was so fully of

spated But, on the 14 th of September last, a letter was addressed to Messrs. Evans & Frost, the present agents in the case, which, after reciting the objections to the admission of the claim acted, that, of the testimony of living wit- nesses [of the same] cannot be had. It must at least, be shown clearly that Mr. [Stebbins] has always had the reputation of having acted in the capacity of a "captain of the coast guards." On the 5 th of October last Messrs. Evans & Frost filed testimony in compliance with that requisition, which they regard as sufficient to authorize this office to issue a certificate to the children of the deceased, for the alleged sum of a com- misioned. They I do not regard such testi- mony as conclusive, and it could not have been thus regarded by the clerk who examined the case. The objections to its ad- mission are fully stated in the accompa- nying copy of a letter addressed to the agents on the 6 th of November inst. last, and un- til the evidence there referred to is pro-

duced, I cannot consent to admit the claim. The paper mentioned from L. W. H. and herewith enclosed. I have the honor to
Yours A. N. A. Stuart, Sec of the Interior

38, 186 Joseph Stebbins dec. Conn.
Ino M. McCalla July 18 '51 Comptroller Hartf'd Ct. Sep 8 '51 Evans & Fant. " 14 '51 Same Octo 1 '52 Same Nov 6 '52 Sec Int " 15 '52 Hon O. S. Seymour Dec 24 '52 " J. C. Perkins Jan 31 '53
at 7 th June 1852

Rev Sec'y No 38. 189
Joseph Stebbins dec.
Connt
Act of 7 th June 1832
To In m McCalla July 18 - 1833
Campbrooks Hartford
Connecticut, Sep 8 th 1857
Rev Sec'y Oct 11 1852
same Oct 17/52
same Nov. 6/52
Sec Inten. Nov. 15/52

18144
Rev
P. O.
Joseph Stebbins
Service:
REJECTED
Enlisted: _____, 18
Discharged: _____, 18
Application filed: _____, 18
not found on printed list
Alleges: 1852.
Re-enlisted: _____
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18
1928- July 17- Transferred Col. G. L. Chase R. Hake Army 1936- May 27- with to Grace G. Stebbins

Rev. & 1812 Wars
HEADQUARTERS COMMANDERY-IN-CHIEF SONS OF UNION VETERANS OF THE CIVIL WAR
COMMITTEE ON MARKING GRAVES CHARLES R. HALE, CHAIRMAN 33 CAPITOL AVENUE HARTFORD, CONN.
July 6-1928
Chief Clerk. Pension Dept. Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:
Please send me the following Revolutionary War Records. We wish to get headstones for these Veterans. Joseph Stebbins, Wakeman Burnett, Thomas Mead and Aaron Betts who enlisted in Becket, Mass. The first three are buried in Ridgefield, Conn. and Betts in Wilton, Conn.
Yours very Truly
Chas. R. Hale

***** From the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim Ques R. 18144, it appears that Joseph Stebbins applied for pension, April 10, 1851, and alleged that his father Joseph Stebbins, while residing at Stamford (later Darien), Fairfield County, Connecticut, served numerous times from 1776 to 1780 as captain of a company of Coast Guards, and was at the battles of Danbury, Ridgefield, Norwalk, Fairfield, and Horseneck. The claim was not allowed as there
was not sufficient proof of the alleged service.
It also appears in said claim that the soldier Joseph Stebbins, died September 26, 1849, aged ninety-three years, at this time he was living, with his son Joseph, at Norwalk, Connecticut.
The above noted Joseph Stebbins is the only soldier of that name found on the Revolutionary War records of this bureau.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT Commissioner. Joseph Stebbins data

BIG HAVANA BROADLEAF BLEND BUCKEYE BOY BANNER FOUR QUALITY JACK FROST
COCHRAN BROS. CIGAR MANUFACTURERS
FACTORY NO. 53, 11TH DISTRICT OF OHIO 39-41 CENTER STREET
McCONNELSVILLE, OHIO
CROOKS PRINCIPEES BIG BROWNIE CHERRIES SUNLIGHT CIGARS OLD KENTUCKY RAT TAIL
March 6, 1936.
Veterans Bureau, Washington D.C.
Gentlemen:
Will you kindly give me any information available on Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Stebbins who fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill also at Saratoga during the Revolutionary War.
I am very desirous of tracing a relationship to this Joseph Stebbins, in order to become a member of the D.A.R. and shall greatly appreciate any aid you may give me.
Respectfully,
no signature? Grace L. Stebbins,
McConnelsville, Ohio.