Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 18,379, Melancthon Lloyd Woolsey, Continental New York

SERVICE
NUMBER
Continental New York
Woolsey, Melancthon Lloyd Alida
No. 18,379
{ B.L.Wt. 2326-200-Lient. Issued Mar. 6, 1792 Recorded as of Mass. Troops No papers.
CONTENTS
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6823 L
New York
Melanchton Sloyo Woolery
of Plattsburg in the state of New York
who was a Lieut. Colonel in the regiment commanded by
Colonel Lee of the Continental
he, for the term of Two Half years
Inscribed on the Roll of New York
at the rate of 20 Dollars per month, to commence on
the 6th of June 1818
Certificate of Pension issued the 12th of Febry 1818
and sent to Hon. Clinton H. of Depts
Arrears to 4th of Sept 1818  59.33
Semi-ann. all'ce ending 4 Mar 1819  120.00
179.33
{ Revolutionary claim, } { Act 18th March, 1818. }
Dead see roll -
see letter to Comt. M. T. Woolery Feb. 24. 1836. do to Leander Babcock, Aug 17. 1838.

Albany 3169
Alida Woolsey
widow of Melancthon L. Woolsey
who died on the 29. June 1819 of Oswego Co. in the State of N. York who was a Lieutenant in the company commanded by Captain _____ of the regt. commanded by Col. Lee in the Mass. line for 2 years Mass Cont'l N.Y.
Inscribed on the Roll of Albany. at the rate of 320 Dollars _____ Cents per annum to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 13. th day of January 1840 and sent to L. Babcock Oswego, N.Y.
Arrears to the 4th of Sep. '39 2720.00 Semi-annual allowance ending March '40. 160.00 $ 2880.00
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the 3 — }
Recorded by D. Brown Clerk Book A, Vol. 2. Page 214
Lead
Paid at the Treasury Under the Act of Dec. April 1838 from 4 Mar 1843 to 11. July 1840. age Notified 25 April 1840

State of New York } Dutchess Co. }
J. A. M. Mann
pastor of the Reformed Dutch church of Poughkeepsie. having the custody of said the records of said church do hereby certify that it appears by an entry in said records that Melanchton Wolsey was married to Alida Livingston on the third day of March one thousand seven hundred & seventy nine.
I further certify that said entry is in the words & figures following. written in fair legible words & figures. in the dutch language -
M 3 ert Melanchton Wolsey 3 d met 1779 Alida Livingston "
A. M. Mann -
J. A. M. Mann depose & say that I hold the office of pastor of the above named church in the village of Po- keepsie & county of Dutchess & state aforesaid and that the above is a true extract from the records of said church as certified by me.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 10 th day of January 1839
A. M. Mann -
Gilas E. Haight Justice of the Peace Int for the County of Dutchess.

State of New York Dutchess County Ss
I, Daniel M c Bradle, Clerk of the County of Dutchess do Certify that Silas E d Wright Esquire before whom the within affidavit for perjury have been sworn to and subscribed, was at the date of the same, One of the Justices of the Peace in and for the said County, Residing in the Village of Poughkeepsie in said County, duly Etreted and sworn, And that I am acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice, and only believe that his name subscribed to the within, Certificate of an affidavit, to be his proper hand writing and signature.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Court of Common Pleas of said County of Dutchess this 20 th day of May A.D. 1839.
Daniel M c Bradle Clerk

State of New York County of Clinton ss
On this twenty sixth day of June 1818 before me the Subscriber, one of the Justices of the Supreme Court of Judicature of the State of New York, personally appears Melanethon Lloyd Woolsey Aged Sixty years, resident in the town of Plattsburgh in the County of Clinton in the said State, who being by me first duly sworn, ac- cording to law, doth, on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the late act of Congress, entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war:"
That he the said Melanethon Lloyd Woolsey being driven from his residence on Long Island in consequence of its occupation by the Enemy, was appointed an Ensign in, (he believes) the 4 th New- York Regiment, which was commanded by Colonel Henry K. Livingston - that declining this appointment, he afterwards, in November 1776 joined Gen l Lee's division of the Army at Peekskill, and attach- -ed himself to Colonel Glover's (afterwards Gen l Glover's) regiment as a Volunteer. That having been previously acquainted with Colonel Palfrey, the then Paymaster General, he was invited by that Gentleman to be at home in his quarters, & to assist him in the duties of his Office as he at that time was without a Clerk, with him I remained, & when military enterprises were afoot, joined my regiment. After the Capture of General Lee, after having shared in the previous, & subsequent distressful march thro' Jersey, crossed the Delaware at Easton under the orders of Gen l Sullivan & shortly joined the remnant of the Army under the Commander in Chief at Newtown in Pennsylva- -nia, in December - That at the attack upon Trenton on the 26 th he carried his Musket - That on the first day of January 1777 he was appointed first Lieutenant in one of 16 additional regiments of which William R. Lee (who had been Major of Glover's) was ap- -pointed Colonel - William S. Smith Lt Col o and Swayze Major - The Paymaster Gen l being absent in Philadelphia, he was ordered to Morristown with the Military Chest after the

Army had taken its position there - that during this winter he was often engaged with military detachments, in straightening the enemys quarters, interrupting their forages &c n in one of which, wherean a large number of Waggons, horses & prisoners were captured, he rec d a wound in the leg, which at this day is an open & he believes, an incurable Ulcer,
That from March to June of that year he resided with his Mother at Danbury in Connecticut - That he was acting as Aid-de camp to Gen l Wooster & was by his side when he fell the day after the burning of Danbury - that shortly after he sustained the same character to Gen l Parsons at the conflagration of Norwalk & fought as a volunteer at the burning of Fairfield - In June he rec d orders to repair to Boston & engage in the recruiting service - that he obeyed & remained there till December following, when he marched with a detachment of 60 men, taking an escort of fixed ammunition for Carlisle, but stopped at Lancaster where his men were inoculated (such as had not had it) for the small pox; after which the Regt was ordered to Valley forge and were immediately detached in advance to the Gulf mills, where we were continually harassed until Sir Henry Clinton evacuated Philadelphia - At the Battle of Monmouth the regiment was distinguished for its steadiness.
After the army had reached the Hudson - he with his corps & many others were detached to the siege of Newport on Rhode Island under the orders of Gen l Sullivan & his accomplished lieutenants Greene & La Fayette - When the unfortunate issue of this siege (in consequence of the disaster of the french fleet) was consummated. The enemy followed, we fought & beat them & gained resources.
The army at Providence, & this regiment at Pawtucket, this department was called to Providence by Gen l Sullivan to act as Judge Advocate of the division - and the first of Jan y 1779 was furlonged to visit his mothers family. The following Spring a new arrangement of the army took place - The Regiments were but Skeletons of the three Regiments of the 16 additional

raised in Massachusetts were consolidated in one - the command of which, Lieut Henley having resigned, remained with Col o Henry Jackson - Lt Col o Smith - Capt David Vanhorne, Lt M. L. Woolsey & Ensign John Smith the only officers, natives of N. York were discharged - This department served in this regiment all 1777 & all 1778 & till May 1779 when he rec d notice of the new arrangement two years & five months - in 79 he was attached to Governor Clin- ton's person whenever the Militia of the State was called out - in 1780 at the pressing instance of Gov r Clinton he accepted a Majority in one of three Regiments raised by the State to re- inforce the Army of the United States & served from April to November - fought at Schroyer & on the Mohawk, being ordered to the frontier in Sept from the main Army near Dobbs Ferry - after which he retired from Military life - having lost his patrimony by depreciation of public paper & the necessary expenses of his station - His father fell under the Gallant Howe in the year 1758 in the service of his Country (leaving him only 5 months old -) in command of a Regiment as Colonel - His commission as Lieut signed by John Hancock President, is mislaid, but his name will doubtless be found on the records of the day, in the War Office - His Major's Commission is attached hereto & the instructions under which he acted on the frontier - That he is now in reduced circumstances and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support, & that he has no other evidence in his power of his said services
Sworn to and declared before me the day and year aforesaid
He has wife one of the Lusters Sup: Court State NY
Mr. Woolsey

I William W. Van Klief Judge &c. as aforesaid, do certify, that it appears to my satisfaction that the said Melanthon L. Woolsey did serve in the Revolutionary War, as stated in the preceding declaration, against the common enemy; and I now transmit the proceedings and testimony taken and had before me, to the Secretary for the department of War, pursuant to the directions of the aforementioned act of Congress. And I do further certify that it appears to my satisfaction as well as from my personal acquaintance with the said Melanthon L. Woolsey as otherwise, that he is in reduced circumstances & needs the assistance of his Country. 26 Decem
1818
W. W. Van Klief of the Supreme Court State of New York
State of New York ss
I certify that the above named William W. Van Klief is one of the Justices of the Supreme Court of the said State - In witness whereof I the undersigned have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of the said Court to be hereunto af-
fixed - 21 st Jany 1819 - I also certify that the foregoing signature of the said W. W. Van Klief was in his proper hand writing
M c Woodford, Clerk of The Supreme Court of the State of New York

Col Lee And mother Woolrey Lieutenant 3 January 1777 Discharged Apr. 1779 Married 3 rd March 1779 Husband 29 June 1819

State of New York
County of Oswego } ss.
Be it known that, on the seventeenth day of August in the year one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine before me - A Justice of the Peace of Town and the County of Oswego and duly authorized to administer oaths by the laws of the said State personally appeared, Susan K Platt and made oath in due form of law that she is the daughter of Mrs Alida Woolsey and the late Melancthon Lloyd Woolsey who was as she believes a Lieutenant in the service of the United States in the Revolutionary War. That she is fifty one years old, That she is acquainted with the handwriting of her father above named having often seen him write - That the statement in relation to her fathers Revolutionary services herunto annexed is in her fathers own handwriting - that it is a part of a full statement which was made out by her father some twenty five years ago with a view to applying for a pension That she distinctly recollects copying at her fathers request the said statement in full - That all of said statement Except the two pages herunto annexed and also her copy of it are lost or destroyed - That she has looked for them and cannot find them - That she found the annexed two pages of said statement sometime in the months of June or July last in her house where she resides in the Village and County of Oswego and State aforesaid - To the truth of all which I am fully satisfied
Subscribed and sworn to the
day and year first above written
Before me.
Susan K Platt
The words "A Justice" "Peace of Town and" written upon an erasure in 3 d line from top before signing or swearing.
John H. Gasy Justice of the Peace

State of New York
County of Oswego ss. Be it known that I, John M. Casey - A. Justice of the Peace of the Town of the County of Oswego aforesaid before whom the foregoing deposition of Mrs Susan K Platt was subscribed and sworn to do hereby certify that I am . . . personally acquainted with said Susan K Platt - That she is in all respects a Credible Witness, and that her statements under oath are entitled to full faith credit and belief - In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of August One Thousand Eight Hundred & Thirty Nine (The words, "John M Casey a Justice of the Peace of the Town of" written on an erasure before Execution, hereof)
John M Casey Justice of the Peace
State of New York
County of Oswego ss. I, Daniel H. Marsh Clerk of the County of Oswego aforesaid and of the County Courts of the County of Oswego do hereby certify that John M. Casey is a . . . . . Justice of the Peace of the Town of Oswego in the said County of Oswego ( being Courts of Record ) duly Commissioned & qualified and authorized by law to administer oaths. and that his two signatures above written are each of them genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said County this seventeenth day of August in the year one thousand Eight hundred and Thirty Nine. (The words "John M Casey" "a Justice of the Peace of the Town of Oswego in" written on an erasure, before Execution hereof, & the words "being Courts of Record" obliterated.)
D. H. Marsh Clerk

V 2071
Alida Wootrey
at July 8 1858
Col Lee, Mts Line McClunton Wootrey Lieut 3 Jan 1777 - Discharged April 1779 -
Summers Lieutenant
L Babcock Esq, Oswego New York

State of New York, Oswego County S.S.
On this Fifteenth day of September one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight personally appeared before David P. Brewster First Judge of the County Courts of the County of Oswego aforesaid Alida Woolsey a resident of the town of Oswego in the County of Oswego above mentioned aged Eighty — years who being first duly sworn, according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7. 1838. entitled "an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows" That she is the widow of Melancthon Woolsey who was a Lieutenant in the service of the United States during the Revolutionary War from 1775. to 1779. That she is informed and believes that the files of the War Department of the United States afford sufficient and satisfactory proof of the service and rank of her said husband — She further declares that she was married to her said husband the said Melancthon Woolsey on the third day of March in the year seventeen hundred and seventy nine at Poughkeepsie in the State of New York.
That her husband the aforesaid Melancthon Woolsey died on the twenty ninth day of June Eighteen hundred and nineteen: That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place previous to the first day of January seventeen hundred and ninety four viz: at the time above stated. That she was never married after the death of her said husband but has always remained and still remains the widow of the said Melancthon Woolsey — That she does not know of the existence of any record of her marriage with her said husband — That by reason of sickness and bodily infirmities she is not able to

attend any Court of record for the purpose of making this declaration or deposition and that she probably never will be able to attend any Court for any such purpose.
Sworn to and Subscribed on the Alida Woolsey day & year first above written before me D. P. Brewster First Judge of Oswego County ss -
Oswego County ss.
I David P. Brewster First Judge of the County Courts of the County of Oswego before whom the above declaration or deposition was subscribed and Sworn. Do hereby certify that the above named Mrs Alida Woolsey is personally known to me, and that in my opinion she is now wholly unable to attend any Court of record for the purpose of making the above declaration by reason of bodily infirmities and disease incident to old age and that in all probability she never will be able to attend any Court for any such purpose. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year first above written. And I do hereby further certify that the foregoing declaration of the said Mrs Alida Woolsey is entitled to full credit and belief
D. P. Brewster First Judge of Oswego County ss -

State of New York Oscego County } ss.
James Platt of the village and County of Oscego in the State of New York being duly sworn according to Law deposeth and saith That he was personally acquainted with Melancton S. Woolsey in the foregoing declaration of Mrs. Alida Woolsey named previous to his death - That the said Melancton S. Woolsey died at the village of Trenton in the County of Oneida and State of New York on or about the twenty ninth day of June Eighteen hundred and nineteen - That he this deponent attended upon the said Melancton S. Woolsey as a personal friend, frequently during his last illness and was present at his funeral - That he this deponent is personally and well acquainted with Mrs. Alida Woolsey the widow of the said Melancton S. Woolsey That the said widow has resided with this deponent in his family for more than seven years last past and that she has not been able to leave this deponent's house at all for more than a year last past on account of sickness and bodily infirmities incident to old age and that she is not able at the present time and never will be able in all probability be able to attend any Court for the purpose of making a declaration for the purpose of obtaining a pension And this deponent further says that he has been informed and believes the same to be true that the said Melancton S. Woolsey and Mrs. Alida Woolsey whose maiden name was Alida Livingston were legally married on the third day of March Seventeen hundred and seventy nine at Poughkeepsie in the State of New York by the Reverend Mr. Freleigh Pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church who is since dead That he this deponent has caused an Examination to be made at Poughkeepsie aforesaid for some record of the

marriage above mentioned but that none was to be found. And this deponent further saith that he has been informed and believes the same to be true that there is an entry in the Records of the Reformed Dutch Church of Poughkeepsie in the words and figures following viz. "Melancthon Taylor son of Melancthon Lloyd Woolsey & Alida Livingston his wife was born June 5. 1780. & was baptised June 18 th by Rev. John R. Livingston D. D." And this deponent further saith that the said Mrs Alida Woolsey was never married a second time but has always since the death of the Melancthon L. Woolsey remained and still remains a widow.
Subscribed and sworn to before me
James Platt
this 13 th day September 1838
D. P. Brewster First Judge of Ossey County
State of New York
Osceaga County } ss.
I. David P. Brewster First Judge of the County Courts of the County of Osceaga before whom the foregoing affidavit of James Platt was subscribed and sworn to hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with said James Platt. That he is an intelligent and respectable Man and that his declaration or deposition under oath is entitled to full faith credit and belief In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and year first above written
D. P. Brewster First Judge of Ossey County

State of New York,
Oswego County } ss.
I Daniel H Marsh Clerk of the County Courts of the County of Oswego do hereby certify that David P. Brewster before whom the foregoing declaration of Alida Woolsey who is now sick and confined to her residence was made and before whom the foregoing affidavit of James Platt was sworn is First Judge as aforesaid in due form of Law appointed and qualified. That the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Oswego of which he is First Judge as aforesaid is a Court of Record and that the four foregoing signatures of the said David P. Brewster are each and every of them his genuine signature.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court of Common Pleas on the Fifteenth day of September Eighteen hundred and thirty Eight
D. H. Marsh Clerk
of summis and verry informis she is not able to

State of New York Onondaga County } ss.
Beekman Livingston of the Town of Salina in the County of Onondaga and State of New York being duly sworn according to law deposes and saith that Mrs Alida Woolsey in the declaration herunto annexed is a sister of this deponent and about Four years older than himself. That the said Mrs Alida Woolsey, formerly Alida Livingston was legally married to Lieutenant Melancthon Woolsey in the annexed declaration of my said sister mentioned at Poughkeepsie in the State of New York on the third day of March Seventeen hundred and seventy nine by the Reverend Mr Freleigh pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church of Poughkeepsie aforesaid; who is since dead as this deponent has been informed & believes. That he this deponent was present and witnessed the ceremony of the marriage above mentioned and knows that the same took place before the first day of January seventeen hundred and ninety four viz; at the time above stated. That my said sister was never afterwards married but has always remained and still remains the widow of the aforesaid Melancthon S. Woolsey. That he this deponent does not know of the existence of any record of the aforesaid marriage. That the said Melancthon S. Woolsey died in the summer of Eighteen hundred and nineteen and further this deponent saith not.
Subscribed and Sworn to this
21 st day of September 1838. }
Before me,
Groen Lansing First Judge of Onondaga County
Beekman Livingston

State of New York Onondaga County } ss.
I, Grove Laurence First Judge of the County Courts of the County of Onondaga aforesaid before whom the foregoing affidavit of Berkenan Livingston was subscribed and sworn do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the said Berkenan Livingston. That he is an intelligent and respectable man and that his affidavit or deposition under oath is entitled to full faith credit and belief. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 21 st day of September Eighteen hundred and thirty eight
Grove Laurence First Judge of Onondaga County

State of New York
Onondaga County } ss. I Elijah Rhoades Clerk of the County Courts of the County of Onondaga do hereby Certify that Grove Lawrence before whom the foregoing affidavit of Beekman Livingston was sworn and subscribed is First Judge of the County Courts of the County of Onondaga. That the Court of Common Pleas of said County of which said Grove Lawrence is first Judge is a Court of Record. and that the two foregoing signatures of said Grove Lawrence are his genuine signatures In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court of Common Pleas the 21 st day of September Eighteen hundred and thirty Eight
The word "Elijah" written on Erasme
E. Rhoades Clerk
affix seal for service E.R.

4782
10th Vol. Page 143
Alida Woolsey at. July 4. 1836
Marr d 8 th March 1779 Husband died 29. June 1819
Col Sec. M p Line Melanethon Woolsey Lieut 8 Jan 1777 - Discharged April 1779 -
Admitted Lieut 2 years
L. Babcock Esq. Oswiga N.Y.

State of New York
Oswego County } ss. On this twenty eighth day of October 1839. personally appeared before David P Brewster Esquire First Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Oswego aforesaid Mrs. Alida Woolsey a resident of the town of Oswego in the County and State aforesaid aged eighty two years, who, being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 4, 1836: That she is the widow of Melanethon Lloyd Woolsey who was a Lieutenant in the service of the United States in the Revolutionary War. That the said Melanethon Woolsey entered the military service of the United States in the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy six or Seventeen hundred and Seventy seven and remained in such service until the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy nine. That he was not in actual service as this deponent believes after the month of January of the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy nine but this deponent cannot now recollect the precise time when the said Melanethon Woolsey entered the service aforesaid or was discharged therefrom. That she does not now recollect the names of the Officers under whom her said husband served and cannot now state the particulars in regard to his service - but can only state from her present recollection that the said Melanethon Woolsey was in the military service of the United States for two years or thereabouts during the Revolutionary War and was a Lieutenant in such service. She further declares that she was married to the said Melanethon Woolsey on the third day of March in the year Seventeen hundred and Seventy nine at Poughkeepsie in the County of Dutchess in the State of New York. That her husband the aforesaid Melanethon Lloyd Woolsey died on the twenty ninth day of June in the year one thousand Eight hundred and nineteen; and that she has remained a widow ever since that period as will more fully appear by reference to the proof heretofore furnished to the War department on her application for a pension under the act of Congress passed July 7. 1838.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written. before me D. P. Brewster First Judge Oswego County ss
Alida Woolsey

Oswege County ss
I David P. Brewster First Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Oswege in the State of New York before whom the foregoing declaration was subscribed and sworn by Mrs Alida Woolsey do hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with said Alida Woolsey. That from infirmities incident to old age she is unable to attend the Court of which I am first Judge or any other Court of Record. and I do not think from present appearances that she will be able to attend the said Court of which I am Judge or any other Court of Record for the remainder of her life. she being almost entirely helpless and having been so for two years & upwards as I am credibly informed. That her declaration aforesaid is in my opinion entitled to full credit and belief - I have therefore in pursuance of the Act of Congress in such case made and provided attended at the place of abode of the said Alida Woolsey in the town and County of Oswege aforesaid and administered the foregoing oath. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this Twenty Eighth day of October One thousand Eight Hundred and thirty nine
D. P. Brewster first Judge of Oswege County ss
State of New York
Oswege County ss
I Daniel H. Marsh Clerk of the County of Oswege aforesaid and of the above mentioned Court of Common Pleas in & for said County of Oswege do hereby certify that the said Court of Common Pleas is a Court of Record by the laws of the State of New York - that David P. Brewster Esq before whom the foregoing Declaration of Alida Woolsey was sworn is First Judge of the said Court of Common Pleas. duly Commissioned and sworn and authorized to administer oaths and that his two signatures above written are each genuine
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the Seal of the said County of Oswege this Twenty Eighth day of October A.D. 1839.
D. H. Marsh Clerk

45 460
INVALID.
Rev
File No. 45 460
Melanchton Lloyd Wootsey
Lieut. Rev. War
Act: 18 th March 1818
Index:—Vol. 3 , Page 574
[Arrangement of 1870.]

2074 Oct 1. N.Y. 7 July 1838
1 1/4 3 3/4
James S. Edwards Esq Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

Asheboro. Sept. 25. 1838.
J. S. Edwards Esq. Com r of Pensions
Ver Sir
I send you the papers complete in the application of Mrs Abida Woolsey widow of the late Lieut Melancthon S. Woolsey, for a pension under the act. of July 7. 1838.
I have made out the papers as near as may be conformable to the rules of the Department and trust that they will be found correct and approved -
Very Respectfully Your most Obedient Servt
Leander Babcock

Aug 17 Mrs Melancthon L. Wolsey Mrs. W. L. Penhallow
XX
James S. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington

Oswego. Aug. 11. 1838.
J. S. Edwards Esq. Comm r of Pensions
Dear Sir
I am informed by our member of Congress that an act past at the last session of Congress granting pensions to the widows of soldiers who served in the Revolution provided they were married prior to Jan'y 1. 1794. I suppose this act will entitle the widow of the late Lieut. Melancton Woolsey to a pension and five years back pay. Am I right? If so may I ask you to cause the rolls of the War department to be exam- ined for the name of Melancton S Woolsey a- Lieutenant who served from 1776. to 1779. January If found I suppose no other proof of service will be required. Lieut W. left the service in January 1779. and was married in March 1779. died June 29. 1819. & his wife that was has remained a widow ever since
Yours &c
Leander Babcock
Melancton L. Woolsey. Lieut - 3 Jan y 77 - discharged in April 1779.

Jan 8. 1870.
My
Moolsey
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Commr of Pensions
Washington
Hon. D. P. Brewster
ARR

J. L. Edwards Esq. } Comm. of pension } Sir,
I am requested by
Mr Babcock of Oswego N.Y. to enquire the widow pensioned. Your Department in the case of "Alida Woolsey, the Widow of a Revolutionary officer is sufficient to entitle her to receive her pension, and if so that I would procure for her the papers. I am also requested by Miss Dunbar, of Oswego co N.Y. to make a similar enquiry in the case of her "Mother" also applying for a pension.
Very Respectfully Yours,
N.Y. Jan'y 7. 1839 —
D. P. Brewster

FREE
James V. Edwens Esq. Com r of Pensions Washington City D. C.
M rs Wood
2071
+ D r June

Owego - July 23. 1839.
James S. Edwards Esq. Com te of Pensions
Dear Sir
Since writing you last I have learned from Mrs Alida Woolsey - that she has a portion of a copy of a statement which was drawn up many years ago, by Genl Woolsey (Lieut. the late Genl Lloyd Woolsey of the revolutionary war) in his own hand writing - from which it appears that Lieut. M c D. Woolsey joined Glover's Regiment in the fall of 1776, as a volunteer and was afterwards appointed First Lieutenant in Col. Vees Regiment then stationed at Hornstown New Jersey and that he served a great portion of the time from 76. to 79. in New Jersey. The paper which Mrs W. has, was made by her daughter, Mrs James Peatt and purports to be a copy of a statement made by Lieut. after General Woolsey many years since at a time when he thought of applying in person for a pension. It is the only memorandum which can be found which has any relation to Genl W. & Military services. the most of his papers were lost many years since. I know not how this can be put in the form of proof so as to be satisfactory to you on the point of identity of the husband of the applicant.
I beg leave again respectfully to suggest whether this point on question is very material - unless indeed there are other applicants for pensions for the services of Lieut. M c D. Woolsey.
It seems to me that Mrs Alida Woolsey has established the facts necessary to be established to entitle her to a pension.

under the provisions of the act, viz. The service rank of her husband - her marriage with him - and her widowhood re. If there were two Lieut. Melanchton Lloyd Woolseys then Alice Woolsey is the widow of one of them - it seems to me therefore that she is entitled to a Pension. It is suggested to me by Mrs Alice Woolsey that her husband might have been transferred from one Regiment to another and his name appear upon the rolls of both, for she cannot believe that there were in reality more than one Lieut. M. L. W. in the country at that time - that one her husband, as she never heard of any family of the name except her own - the name altogether being rather uncommon one even now.
I hope that this explanation will be satisfactory as from what I know of this case I can see anything like suspicion of fraud or any impropriety in any of the facts of this case - The high character of the family is sufficient for me. I beg to be excused for thus trespassing upon your time in this matter on the ground that I am perfectly satisfied that the claim is a just one and am anxious to have it granted as early as may be.
Very respectfully
Yours Most obedt Servt
President Babcock

Oswego, April 23, 1839.
Sir—We respectfully submit to your perusal, and recommend to your consideration, the proceedings of a very large and respectable meeting of the citizens of this place, held last evening. We would more particularly recommend to your favorable considerations the suggestions contained in the 7th resolution, and request your interest and efforts in carrying out the same.
We are, very respectfully, your Obedient Servants,
G. H. McWhorter, A. Bronson, W. Duer, L. Wright, J. Platt, T. H. Bond, T. S. Morgan, J. Turrill, L. Babcock, H. Fitzhugh,
Corresponding Committee
NIAGARA SHIP CANAL.
PUBLIC MEETING.
At a numerous and highly respectable meeting of the citizens of Oswego, held at the Market Hall, on the evening of April 22, for the purpose of considering the matter of the recent REJECTION by the Senate of this state, of the bill to authorize the general government to construct the Niagara Ship Canal , on motion of the Hon. J. Turrill, HENRY FITZHUGH, Esq. was appointed President, U. G. WHITE, S. F. SWIFT, JAMES LYON and JOSEPH GRANT, Esq's, Vice Presidents, and L. Babcock, T. S. Morgan, T. H. Bond and J. W. Turner, Secretaries.
WM. DUER, Esq. in a spirited and pertinent address stated the objects of the meeting, and on his motion it was,
Resolved , That a committee of fifteen be appointed by the chair to draft resolutions expressive of the sentiments of this meeting.
Whereupon Messrs. Alvin Bronson, James Platt, Joel Turrill, G. H. McWhorter, Wm. Duer, L. Wright, J. Grant, Jr. L. Babcock, J. N. Bonesteel, W. F. Allen, J. B. Edwards, J. Neilson, D. P. Brewster, M. Harman, and G. H. Woodruff were appointed said committee.
After a short recess, Mr Duer, in behalf of the committee reported the following, which were unanimously adopted:
This meeting having been informed of the rejection by the Senate of the bill authorizing the United States to build a Canal around the Falls of Niagara —and considering,
That the proposed work is of immense importance to the state and nation, whether as a channel of trade, or a means of defence in war; that the proposition was not to build the work at the expense of the state, but simply
to accept it as a gift; that at the same time the legislature is entertaining favorably projects for public works (in more favored parts,) the completion of which will involve the people in an immense debt, and render a resort to taxation indispensable; thus denying to portions of our citizens works of great benefit to them and of no expense to the state, and at the same time forcing them to pay for other works, from which they can derive no advantage:
That the same reasoning that forbids the creation of a channel of trade that is to cost nothing, would destroy it if it existed; and that upon such principles, rivers and harbors might be blocked up, lest artificial and expensive works should suffer by the competition:
That legislation so unequal and oppressive is intolerable, and demands a prompt, unqualified, and persevering resistance: that the example is pregnant with mischief; for if majorities for selfish purposes shall violate the plain rules of right and wrong, taking from some to enrich others, popular supremacy will become tyranny, and those who obey the laws, slaves—Do therefore resolve as follows:
1. Resolved , That we have learnt with sentiments of surprise and indignation the refusal by the Senate to accept as a gift, a Ship Canal around the Falls of Niagara .
2. Resolved , That Congress have the unquestionable power to build the work in question, as a means of public defence; and that the courtesy due to the government of our common country, might have prompted Senators not to deny what that government had the delicacy to ask, but the right to demand.
3. Resolved , That to tax citizens in one part of the State to pay for improvements in other parts, and at the same time deny them works of great utility, which are to cost nothing, is gross and intolerable injustice.
4. Resolved , That we protest against a system of legislation which will convert the State into a great monopoly, crushing private enterprise, building expensive works and then forcing trade through them, that they may yield a revenue; levying tribute every where, and giving the spoils to aggrandize her favorites.
5. Resolved , That we deem it our duty, as well as our interest, to oppose legislation so unequal and oppressive; and that we will persist in such opposition until we either find a remedy or make one.
6. Resolved , That we have no confidence in the project introduced into the Senate by Mr. Verplack: that there is neither reason nor equity in asking the General Government to furnish funds to build a canal upon which the State of New-York is to be allowed to levy tolls; and that it would be unjust to the States of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, &c., first to build a canal from a common fund to which they have contributed, and then to tax their produce for the sole benefit of the State of New-York.
7. Resolved , That we invite the cities, villages and towns, interested in the Niagara Ship Canal , to hold meetings for the purpose of making known their sentiments upon this subject; and that a Corresponding Committee of nine be appointed by the chair to confer with committees that may be appointed in such meetings.
The chair appointed the following gentlemen Corresponding Committee , viz: G. H. McWhorter, Bronson, W. Duer, L. Wright, J. Platt, T. H. Fitzhugh, T. S. Morgan, J. Turrill, L. Babcock.
On motion of S. F. Swift, the President, Mr. Fitzhugh, was added to the Committee.
On motion. Resolved , That the proceedings of this meeting be signed by the officers thereof, and published in the papers of this county, in the Albany Advertiser, Albany Argus, Albany Evening Journal, New-York Journal of Commerce, Courier and Enquirer, Evening Post, and Express.
H. FITZHUGH, President. U. G. WHITE, } S. F. SWIFT, } Vice J. LYON, } Presidents. J. GRANT, }
L. BABCOCK, } T. S. MORGAN, } Secretaries. T. H. BOND, } J. W. TURNER, }

Not paid Adolph Woolsey,
FREE
James V. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D C

Oswego. June 1. 1839.
J. S. Edwards Esq. Comm ee of Pensions
Sir.
I enclose again the Certificate of the Pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church P'keepsie & with a Certificate of the County Clerk of Dutchess County as to the official character of the Magistrate &c.
Mrs Alida Woolsey is wholly unable to state or recollect the names of the officers under whom her late husband served and her family are all absent from this part of the country except one brother who lives at Salina in this State but he never knew much about the particulars of the service of Lieut Woolsey and cannot swear to the names of the officers or any facts at all except that he served as it was always understood at the time; & was called Lieut
The old Lady has failed so much in body & mind since since this application was made that she can tell nothing about the matter which can be relied on at all - It seems to me that she has, under the regulations of the department & the Law, made out a clear case & is entitled to the pension - the proof being so clear as to her marriage with M. Woolsey who as the files of the war department shows served in the Revolution.
It seems to me too that there is nothing suspicious in all this matter - not the least chance of defrauding

the government in this matter. I am instructed by Mrs Woolseys friends to say that the case is now submitted and that the prospect of their ever being able (except from the files of the Department) to produce the additional proof required is so small that it is not worth their while to attempt it - The old lady would unquestionably die before it could be brought about and the pension would not pay the probable expense. They wish the department to pass upon the application & communicate the result to me.
I forwarded an application for a pension in behalf of Mrs Hannah Lewis some months since from which I have heard nothing as yet, I trust I shall hear from this soon.
Respectfully
Deane Dabrock

Rev
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 18379 Alida Woolsey Widow of Melanchton Woolsey Lieut Genl War
Act: July 4 th 86
Index:—Vol. m Page 357
[Arrangement of 1870.]

General Woolsey Papers.
Lieut. Woolsey —
Adm.
Hon. Mr. Morris, H. R. —

V. N. York
Alida Woolsey
widow Melancton L.
letter to L. Babcock 23. Nov. '38
to same 20 April 1839
to same July 29. 1839 -
to same 21. Oct. 1839
to Hon. D. R. Brewster 8. Jan. 1840
Act. 7. July 1838

Aug 23
My acceptance Alida Wood 33
Full
James V. Edwards Esquire Commissioner of Pensions Washington City

Gluegs. Aug. 17. 1839.
James V. Edwards Esq. Comm r of Pensions
Sir
I enclose the evidence mentioned in mine of the 23 rd ult. in the application of Mrs Alice Woolsey for a Pension
The widow of Captain Abel Cook has applied to me to procure a pension for her from the Revolutionary Services of her late husband If proper please to inform me if the name of Abel Cook appears on the Rolls of the department as a Revolutionary Soldier or Officer . & what his rank -
Very Respectful
Yours most Obediently
Venuelet Babcock

See no 4782 Nov 2 N.Y. July 4. 1836
[Large decorative flourish or monogram]
J. S. Edwards Esquire Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
SECOND COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE,
February 18 th , 1845.
Sir:
Under the act of the 6th of April, 1838, entitled "An Act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury of the United States," and the third section of the Act of August 23, 1842, extending the time within which pensioners may receive their pensions from the pension agents, The Executor of Hilda Woolsey, dec d a Pensioner on the Roll of the Albany N.Y. Agency, at the rate of Three hundred & twenty Dollars and Cents per annum, under the law of the 4 th July 1836, has been paid at this Department, from the 1 st of March 1843, to the 11 th July 1843,
Respectfully, yours,
William L. Parris
Comptroller.
To the COMMISSIONER OF PENSIONS,
Present.

In the summer of 1776 I was appointed an Ensign in (I think) the 4th N York Regiment commanded by Col o Henry W. Livingston - I soon joined that Regt - but in Nov r of the same year I joined the division of Maj r Gen l Lee at Peaks-Hill & attached myself to Glover's Regiment as a Volunteer. Having long been acquainted with Col o Palfrey (then Pay Master Gen l ) he invited me to be at home in his quarters & joined my assistance in his Office - with him I remained when military intrepidez were a part, repair to my regiment - After the capture of Gen l Lee, having shared in the previous adventures  of the  campaign  in  the  state  of  New  Jersey  where  the  Delaware  at  Trenton  & joined the Commander in Chief at Newtown about 7 miles from Trenton in December - At the battle of Trenton I carried my Musket - I did my duty - When the Army the 2nd time took post at Trenton, the very day preceding the battle of Princeton - a portion of the Regular troops, their terms of enlistment having expired were about retiring, The Commander in Chief ordered me (Col o Palfrey being in Philadelphia) to repair to Trenton & pay $10 bounty to all such men as would engage for three weeks longer - This duty was scarcely performed - when the Alarm Gun announced the approach of Lord Cornwallis - I had $12,000 left in my Paymaster's - on applying for orders - The Gen l ordered me to return immediately to Newtown & wait instructions - being anxious to carry back some intelligence I dropped the Creek, tied my horse & waited by a good fire until I could obtain some - Hearing a battle soon after, I looked out & saw the head of a column of the Enemy - I mounted, pushed for Quatun's ferry was pursued nearly 3 miles by British horsemen, who repeatedly cracked their Pistols at me - when I came to the ferry - all the boats were taken to the opposite side by direction of Lord Stirling - a detachment of troops & 2 pieces of

artillery guarded the pass & firing on my pursuit, caused them to desist. I soon after to retire - Having no other means of escape, after my horse had taken breath, I put him into the stream & swam the river, & reached the shore - but received injury - At this time I was appointed Lt Col in the Regt of which I was R. Lieut (who had been Major of Glouster) was appointed Col - One of the 16 Additional Regts of which the term in chief was entrusted with the organization - I accepted this com d soon after joined the Army at Morristown - soon after (a few weeks & it is strange I have forgot the day) a grand forage was attempted by the Enemy, when we attacked & captured many Waggons, Horses & men - the Enemy were defeated & fled the Enemy were defeated & fled
The next summer I was in Boston - recruiting - & Marched from thence the 3 d D t following with a detachment of 60 men (I always commanded the company, the Capt. Drown, never joined, but was kept on the recruiting service) took a route of fixed ammunition at Springfield for Carlisle, but was stopped to give my men the small box at Lancaster & another detachment was sent on - Col Geo Gideon commanded at Lancaster - We, as soon as all were received from the small box, were ordered to Valley Forge, & immediately after our Regt were advanced to the Gull Mills, where we found continually harassed like Vid St. Charles evacuated Philadelphia - we followed him & fought him at Monmouth - We were afterwards detached under Gen Sullivan to the Siege of New Port - his Lieutenants were then Able Soldiers - Greene & La Fayette & we should have taken the place had not Lord Howe out-witted Count de Estange the Com d of the French fleet - When we retired, from before the town, we were followed - we fought & gained renown -
The 1 st Jan y 1778 I was furloughed for the Winter - Our ranks were reduced to nothing The 3 Regts of Lee, Henry & Jackson were consolidated - the others having resigned Jackson was retained & very many officers discharged, who had been bred under Washington & would gladly have continued in service - it was March or April when I was paid off - with - less than nothing !

Osweyo Oct 28. 1839.
W m Edwards Esqr Com r of Pensions
Dear Sir
I have yours of the 21. inst. and now Enclose the new Declaration of Mrs Alice Woolsey under the Act of July 4. 1836
I presume it will not be necessary to procure anew the proofs heretofore forwarded and therefore hope to hear of a favorable decision of this application soon -
Very Respectfully
Your Ob t Servant
V. Babcock

Oswego, April 23, 1839.
Sir—We respectfully submit to your perusal, and recommend to your consideration, the proceedings of a very large and respectable meeting of the citizens of this place, held last evening. We would more particularly recommend to your favorable considerations the suggestions contained in the 7th resolution, and request your interest and efforts in carrying out the same.
We are, very respectfully, your Obedient Servants,
G. H. McWhorter, A. Bronson, Wm. Duer, L. Wright, J. Platt, T. H. Bond, T. S. Morgan, J. Turrill, L. Babcock, H. Fitzhugh,
Corresponding Committee.
NIAGARA SHIP CANAL.
PUBLIC MEETING.
At a numerous and highly respectable meeting of the citizens of Oswego, held at the Market Hall, on the evening of April 22, for the purpose of considering the matter of the recent REJECTION by the Senate of this state, of the bill to authorize the general government to construct the Niagara Ship Canal , on motion of the Hon. J. Turrill, HENRY FITZHUGH, Esq. was appointed President, U. G. WHITE, S. F. SWIFT, JAMES LYON and JOSEPH GRANT, Esq's, Vice Presidents, and L. Babcock, T. S. Morgan, T. H. Bond and J. W. Turner, Secretaries.
WM. DUER, Esq. in a spirited and pertinent address stated the objects of the meeting, and on his motion it was,
Resolved , That a committee of fifteen be appointed by the chair to draft resolutions expressive of the sentiments of this meeting.
Whereupon Messrs. Alvin Bronson, James Platt, Joel Turrill, G. H. McWhorter, Wm. Duer, L. Wright, J. Graat, Jr. L. Babcock, J. N. Bonesteel, W. F. Allen, J. B. Edwards, J. Neilson, D. P. Brewster, M. Harman, and G. H. Woodruff were appointed said committee.
After a short recess, Mr Duer, in behalf of the committee reported the following, which were unanimously adopted:
This meeting having been informed of the rejection by the Senate of the bill authorizing the United States to build a Canal around the Falls of Niagara —and considering,
That the proposed work is of immense importance to the state and nation, whether as a channel of trade, or a means of defence in war; that the proposition was not to build the work at the expense of the state, but simply
to accept it as a gift; that at the same time the legislature is entertaining favorably projects for public works (in more favored parts,) the completion of which will involve the people in an immense debt, and render a resort to taxation indispensable; thus denying to portions of our citizens works of great benefit to them and of no expense to the state, and at the same time forcing them to pay for other works, from which they can derive no advantage:
That the same reasoning that forbids the creation of a channel of trade that is to cost nothing, would destroy it if it existed; and that upon such principles, rivers and harbors might be blocked up, lest artificial and expensive works should suffer by the competition:
That legislation so unequal and oppressive is intolerable, and demands a prompt, unqualified, and persevering resistance: that the example is pregnant with mischief; for if majorities for selfish purposes shall violate the plain rules of right and wrong, taking from some to enrich others, popular supremacy will become tyranny, and those who obey the laws, slaves—Do therefore resolve as follows:
1. Resolved , That we have learnt with sentiments of surprise and indignation the refusal by the Senate to accept as a gift, a Ship Canal around the Falls of Niagara.
2. Resolved , That Congress have the unquestionable power to build the work in question, as a means of public defence: and that the courtesy due to the government of our common country, might have prompted Senators not to deny what that government had the delicacy to ask, but the right to demand.
3. Resolved , That to tax citizens in one part of the State to pay for improvements in other parts, and at the same time deny them works of great utility, which are to cost nothing, is gross and intolerable injustice.
4. Resolved , That we protest against a system of legislation which will convert the State into a great monopoly, crushing private enterprise, building expensive works and then forcing trade through them, that they may yield a revenue; levying tribute every where, and giving the spoils to aggrandize her favorites.
5. Resolved , That we deem it our duty, as well as our interest, to oppose legislation so unequal and oppressive; and that we will persist in such opposition until we either find a remedy or make one.
6. Resolved , That we have no confidence in the project introduced into the Senate by Mr. Verplanck: that there is neither reason nor equity in asking the General Government to furnish funds to build a canal upon which the State of New-York is to be allowed to levy tolls; and that it would be unjust to the States of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, &c., first to build a canal from a common fund to which they have contributed, and then to tax their produce for the sole benefit of the State of New-York.
7. Resolved , That we invite the cities, villages and towns, interested in the Niagara Ship Canal , to hold meetings for the purpose of making known their sentiments upon this subject; and that a Corresponding Committee of nine be appointed by the chair to confer with committees that may be appointed at such meetings.
The chair appointed the following gentlemen a Corresponding Committee, viz: G. H. McWhorter, A. Bronson, W. Duer, L. Wright, J. Platt, T. H. Bond, T. S. Morgan, J. Turrill, L. Babcock.
On motion of S. F. Swift, the President, Mr. Fitzhugh, was added to the Committee.
On motion. Resolved , That the proceedings of this meeting be signed by the officers thereof, and published in the papers of this county, in the Albany Advertiser , Albany Argus , Albany Evening Journal , New-York Journal of Commerce , Courier and Enquirer , Evening Post , and Express .
H. FITZHUGH, President.
U. G. WHITE, } S. F. SWIFT, } Vice J. LYON, } Presidents. J. GRANT, }
L. BABCOCK, } T. S. MORGAN, } Secretaries. T. H. BOND, } J. W. TURNER, }

Jan. 21. 1839 NY
add proof
Abida Woolsey
free
James V. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

J. S. Edwards Esq. Comr of Pensions
Oswego, Jan'y 13, 1839
Dear Sir
I enclose you a certificate of the Pastor of the Ref Dutch Church of Poughkeepsie of the marriage of Mrs Alida Woolsey with the late Lieut Melancthon Woolsey
Mr Mann when applied to on a former occasion stated that there was no Record of the Marriage in his possession but said that there was a Record of the baptism of Mr & Mrs Woolsey's oldest child the late Commodore Woolsey. On being applied to in pursuance of your letter for a Certificate of such baptism he has discovered an entry in the Record of his Church of the Marriage in Dutch which we now send you. The fact of its being in Dutch probably caused him to certify that there was no such record. Mr Mann tells us that the signature of Silas E Houghton Justice of the Peace is well known & will be recognized at Washington for that reason we send the enclosed without the Clerks Certificate. Mrs Woolsey has no kind of recollection in regard to the officers under whom her late husband served in the Rev. War. All that she knows is that he was called by everybody a Lieutenant and a brave officer when

She married him - He did not serve at all after his marriage - I relied upon your letter the fact that his name was enrolled at the War Office, as sufficient to establish the service and rank of Lieut Woolsey - This seems to me to be sufficient within the printed rules of the Department - Mrs Woolsey knows not where else but the War Office to look for proof of her husband's service & the officers names under whom he served.
With all respect I beg leave to say that this application does seem to me to be as free from suspicion of fraud or unfairness, as it now stands, as it is possible to be
Very respectfully, Your Obedient Servant
Leander Babcock