Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 597, for Peter Stevens, New York

SERVICE
NUMBER
New York
Stevens, Peter. or Stephens
No. 597
B.L.H. 276/2-160-55-
Elizabeth
CONTENTS

Apr. 2.
Elizabeth Stevens, widow of Peter Stevens, Priv., Capt., & Ser.
Capt.
Col.
Enf.:-
Dis.-
Pensioners.
MS. B. 1. 6 v. 23 - 1956
Beynton
AD: 1600 ac. May 16/57
[Handwritten signature/initials]
[Vertical handwritten initials: A.P.S.]
A.P. Stephens Nyack. N.Y.
Rev. A. Stephens Aug 10/53 let. " " " " " 55 Set due Sept 13/55 1953-1955
MS. B. 1. 6 v. 23, page 78.

1950 New York City Elizabeth Stevens widow of Peter Stevens
who served in the Revolutionary N.Y. war, as a Pr, Corpl & Sgt
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 91 Dollars 33
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
3 rd February 1853 Certificate of Pension issued the 15 th day of Sept r 1853 and sent to
A. P. Stephens Nyack Rockland Co; N.Y.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act July 29, 1848. Page 83 Vol. A
Feby 3 rd 1853
1829
Ms. A. 9. 2. 20. 53-34463
AP

24.498
New York
Peter Strowd of Rockland Co in the State of New York who was a for Enp Hgt in the Company commanded by Captain Anderson of the Regt - commanded by Col. Day - in the N. Y. com. line for 4 mos/br. 9 " Enp. 9 " 88'
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 91 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 14th day of March, 1834.
Certificate of Pension issued the 2 day of Jan'y. 1834 and sent to Hon A Ward. Rep.
Arrears to the 14th of Sept 1835 $228.33 Semi-ant. allowance ending March 34 45.66 $273.99
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by W. L. Williams Clerk, Book C Vol. 4 Page 121

Declaration of Peter Stephens

State of New York } Rockland County }
ss.
th
On this 29 day of November 1832. personally appeared in open Court before the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas, now sitting Peter Stephens, a resident of the town of Clarkstown, in the County of Rockland and State of New York, being nearly 72 years of age. Who being first duly sworn, according to Law, doth on his oath make the following Decla- -ration, in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress, passed June 7. 1832. That he entered the service of the United States, under the following named officers, and served as herein stated. That on the 21. of December 1746, the day he arrived to be 16 years of age he was enrolled in the Militia Company in which he resided, commanded by Capt. Jacob Onderdonk, whereof Revolent Vanhouten was Lieut. in Col. Ann Hawkes Heay's Regt. That he volunteered and performed duty about 2 Months under said Officers previous to his said enrollment. That he was born in the now town of Clarkstown, on the 21. day of December 1760, according to the information received from his Parents, and the family record of the same. That he went upon duty, at and under the command and order and command of his said officers. Immediately after his said enrollment, that he with others guarded the lower part of Rockland County, Bergen woods, Fort Lee Hackensack, &c making different tours and excursions through the same until about the first of February following, when he enlisted in a company (commanded by Capt. Abrahams Onderdonk Isaac Coe Lieut. for 3 months, in Col. Gilbert Cooper's Regt. during which service, he was the greatest proportion thereof stationed in the State of New Jersey opposing the common enemy, and those who should have been our friends (the Tories and Horse-thieves)

Recollects, that while there, four of our men went out on a patrolling party, were surprised and taken prisoners, at the English-neighborhood (R. Jersey) and taken to New York by the enemy, whereof Abraham Storms one of his present Townsmen was one, who was detained a prisoner some length of time--- That, after the expiration of said service some time in the month of May about the first day thereof (according to the best of his recollection and belief) he enlisted in a company commanded by Cap. John Gardner, does not recollect the term of enlistment but perfectly remembers, that he was discharged in the last of the Fall, or first of the winter season following. Thinks the said enlistment must have been for 6. or 9 Months, that under such enlistment, he was stationed along the shore of the Hudson River in the Towns of Haverstraw, Clarkstown, & Orange Town, and to what was then termed British Lines in New Jersey, along said shore, and the interior country, guarding against the invasion of the common enemy by Land and water---
That about the first of April 1778 he enlisted in a company commanded by Cap. John Bell, Col. Graham Reg t for 9 Months, served as Serjeant, during said enlistment. Was stationed along the shores of the Hudson, chiefly in the County of Rockland, for a short time, then joined the main Army, at the White Plains, where we remained some time, our company then was, attached to a body of troops commanded by a Major Bell--- Then moved to Hackensack, New Bridge--- While there, went on a picket guard at the Liberty Pole in Bergen County, when we were surprised, routed, and dispersed by the British horse

some of our men taken prisoners. some few killed and others severely wounded. Then retreated from New Bridge to Tappan. lay there. when some of our Horse was taken. and barbarously cut and mangled by the British. at a place called Old Tappan. N. J. was afterwards marched into new Rockland County to guard the shores of the Hudson. as before. and some of us. ordered to the western side of said County to protect the Inhabitants against the marauders and Horse thieves. that were then. making depredations in that section of our country. where he remained during the remaining term of said enlistment. and was there discharged on the last day of December 1778 at Tappan.
That about the first of May 1779 he again was called upon and joined his first and former Company of Militia. under said Capt. Jacob Onderdonk and served therein as a Corporal. During the remain- =ing part of the Revolutionary war. in guarding the shores of the Hudson as before. against the British Boats that frequently came on shore and committed depredations. that this last duty. was chiefly per- =formed. between Stoney Point. and a place called Foster Excepting the service of about one month. which he rendered as a substitute for a Garret Cooper. in a Com- =pany commanded by a Capt. Prentice Bowen in the standing troops Militia. And he further states that in the year 1779 (when the British troops had possession of Stoney Point) he and others of the militia was on immediate duty during the whole season in guarding the shores from place to place continu- =ally. That they had to furnish themselves with
Provisions while supporting their Country that the calls of their Country were so frequent and despite their duty

was an immediate duty during the whole season in guarding the shores from place to place continually. That they had to furnish themselves with
Provisions while supporting their Country that the calls of their Country were so frequent that there was scarcely any respite from duty until late in the fall of the same year - Except the short time that Gen l Wayne had possession of Stoney Point, after his capture of the same, which this deponent thinks was not more than four, or five days that during the same time they were obliged to abandon their houses at night & off from duty for fear of being made prisoners, that this deponent then, and now lives about 3 Miles in a Direct line from Hudson River, and within 8, or 9 Miles from Stoney Point

And he verily believes that his whole term of service actually and faithfully rendered to his Country, during the Revolutionary war, under the different services herein mentioned, would amount at least, to two years, and four, or five months.
That he has no paper or documentary evidence of any of his said services, and relies on being supported by some of his fellow citizens, and townsmen, who can testify to their knowledge, and belief of his services as a Soldier in the Revolutionary war (to wit) Garnet Smith, Abraham Storms and Abraham Van Houten.
That he still resides in Clarkstown aforesaid the place of his birth, and has never been a resident of any other town, or place.
He also hereby relinquishes every claim whatever, to a pension, or annuity, except the present, and hereby declares, that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the agency of any State -
Sworn to, and subscribed the day and year aforesaid Peter Stephens David Pyle Clerk
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department

that the above named applicant Peter Stephens was a Revolutionary soldier, and served as he states And the Court further certifies, that Abraham Storms, and Abraham Van Houten, whose testimony is hereunto annexed, are residents of the Town of Clarkstown, and well known to us, are creditable persons and that their statement is entitled to credit
Daniel Johnson Corn. J. Blauvelt } Judges of Peter M. Smith } Rockland County
I David Pyle Clerk of the Court of Rockland County do hereby certify, that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the Court in the matter of the application of Peter Stephens for a Pension In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office, at Clarkstown, this Twenty ninth day of November A. D. 1832—
David Pyle

20407
Peter Stevens,
Rockland county, New York.
By - Admitted
  Sergeant 9 mo  45    Corporal 9 "  33    Private 4 "  13.33        22  41.52  
  Mr Ward  182.66     45.66         $128.33  
A.P. Stephens, Clarkstown
David Lee N. York

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
May 27
1833
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. These points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: { ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.
A Statement, shewing the Service of Peter Stevens, Rockland County N.Y.
   Period when the service was rendered. Duration of the claimant's service. Rank of the claimant. Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served. Names and Rank of the General and Field officers. Battles in which the applicant was engaged. Country through which he marched. Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at the present period. Evidence by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     Volunteers 1776 2 private Captain Baldwin Lieut. Col. Van Nest Genl. Washington Genl. Putnam Amsterdam Catskill Poughkeepsie White Plains Brooklyn 73 Rockland Co. N.Y.   2nd May 1775 6 1/2 Corpl. Capt. Baldwin Genl. Washington Genl. Sullivan White Plains Brooklyn Witnesses Genl. Washington Genl. Sullivan Genl. Putnam Genl. Greene   1775 9 sargent Capt. Bell Lieut. Col. Baldwin Genl. Washington Genl. Sullivan White Plains Brooklyn   1777 time of service 3 1/2 Corporal Capt. Bell Lieut. Col. Baldwin Genl. Washington Genl. Sullivan White Plains Brooklyn New York City   1 Priv. Capt. Bell Lieut. Col. Baldwin Genl. Washington Genl. Sullivan White Plains Brooklyn New York City   76   4   2  
which service ended at 2 years, 11 mos 5 days
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS,
Commissioner of Pensions.

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers," all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c. Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of Private Armed Vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
 1. The Regular Troops.  2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.  3. Persons employed in the Naval service.  4. Indian Spies. 
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons, claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.
DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of } ss. County of }
On this _____ day of _____ personally appeared (a) before A. B. a resident (b) of _____ in the county of _____ and State, Territory or District of _____ aged (c) _____ years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) _____, with _____ and served in the _____ (e) regiment of the _____ line, under the following named officers:
[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marched. [This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.]
He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of _____
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
A. B.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I, _____ of the Court of _____ do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of _____ for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this day of _____ &c.
If, on examination of the proper record the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman, residing in the _____ and C. D. residing in (the same) _____ hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with _____, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be _____ years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that A. B. _____ who has signed the preceding certificate, is a clergyman, resident in the _____ and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the _____ and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, _____ Clerk of the Court of _____ do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of _____ for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this _____ day of _____ &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the transaction.
If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County, in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
 1. Where and in what year were you born?  2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?  3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?  4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?  5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.  6. { To a Soldier. } Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given and what has become of it? { To an Officer. } Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?  7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons -one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify, to the character and standing of other persons, giving such certificates.
The traditional evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guide.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must state, with precision, the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
"Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service; but, according to the best of his recollection, he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades:—For _____ year _____ months, and _____ days, I served as a _____. For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension."
It is important, in all cases, to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about here a four months , in the militia, &c without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
Proof of Service.
[j] In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimant's entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
[k] The notes from [a] to [e] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[l] This traditional evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[m] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[n] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

34,163.
Elizabeth Stephens
A. P. Stephens Nyack N.Y.

State of New York County of Rensselaer ss.
On this twenty fourth day of March A.D. One thousand eight hundred and fifty five, personally appeared before the undersigned County Judge of the County of Rensselaer - Elizabeth Stevens widow of Peter Stevens, deceased, aged eighty five years a resident of the County and State aforesaid, who - being duly sworn according to law, declares, that she is the widow of the above named Peter Stevens deceased, who was a private, Corporal and Sergeant in the Revolutionary War; That her said husband was a pensioner of the United States, and that the services performed by him, are detailed at large in the application made by him under the act of Congress of 1832, as this deponent believes, and now on file in the Pension Department in the City of Washington That this deponent has applied for a pension under the 2 d section of the act of February 3 d 1833, which is inscribed on the Pension list at the rate of thirty one dollars and thirty three cents per annum.
She further declares, that she was married to the said Peter Stevens on the 21 st day of May - A.D.

one thousand eight hundred and seventeen. That her said husband died on the seventh day of January one thousand eight hundred and forty eight. That she was married by one Samuel Petton a minister of the Gospel whose place of residence if still living, she does not know That she has no Certificate of her said marriage nor any other written Evidence in her possession, And that she is still the widow of said Peter Stevens. She further declares that she has not made any application for nor received any bounty land under this or any other act of Congress.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which she may be entitled under the act approved March 3. 1855.
Elizabeth Stevens
34, 46 B. We Ralph Van Housen and Cornelius Schuyler Residents of the County of Rockland and State of New York upon our Oaths declare, that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Elizabeth Stevens, in our presence, and that we know the applicant, to be the identical person, she represents herself to be.
Ralph Van Housen Cornelius Schuyler

The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this claim.
Wm F. Fraser Elizabeth Stevens County Judge of Rockland Co. N.Y.
State of New York } County of Rockland } ss.
I, John E. Hogenkamp Clerk of the County of Rockland do hereby certify that William F. Fraser was on the day of the date of the above declaration a competent Judge in and for the said County, duly appointed and qualified, that I am well acquainted with his handwriting and that the signature above, purporting to be his is genuine like his name to the affiant hereto annexed.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my Seal of Office and subscribed my name this Twenty Sixth day of March in the year 1855.
John E. Hogenkamp Clerk

State of New York ) County of Dutchess ) ss.
On this twenty fourth day of March A.D. 1888 personally before the undersigned a County Judge of the County aforesaid came Ralph Van Harn and Cornelius Sickly residents of the County of Roekland and the said deponents who being duly sworn according to law do severally depose and say that they are well acquainted with Elizabeth Stephens the widow of Peter Stephens whose application for dower lands is herunto annexed that they were well acquainted with said Peter Stephens in his life time, that they were present at the marriage of the said Peter Stephens with said Applicant, but the day & year of said marriage they have forgotten, that the said Peter Stephens died in Clearstone in said County, on or about the seventh day of January 1848 and that the said Elizabeth Stephens is still his widow.
Cornelius Sickly Ralph Van Harn
Subscribed and sworn before me the day and year above written and I certify that I am acquainted with the subscribing witnesses, that they are credible persons whose oaths can be relied on.
Wm. F. Fraser County Judge for Rockland

Elizabeth Stephens widow of Gen. Stephens d. 1802 Claimed & received for Pension.
W. P. Stephens Ag. N. Y.

State of New York
County of Rockland
On this fifth day of August, in the thousand eight hundred and fifty three, personally appeared before the undersigned, County Judge of the County of Rockland, and State aforesaid, Elizabeth Stephens, a resident of Orange County, County and State aforesaid, age eighty three years, who first being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following amended declaration, in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed the 3 February 1853 granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war. That she is the widow of Peter Stephens who was a soldier of the Revolutionary war and a pensioner of the United States, and that he drew a pension at the rate of about 91 dollars & 33 cents, per annum, as will appear by the records of the Pension Office, and that he was paid his pension at the agency for paying pensions in the City of New York. She further declares that she was married to the said Peter Stephens in Orange County, County of Rockland and State aforesaid on or about the 17th day of May, A.D. 1817, by Samuel Pelton a minister of the Gospel, and that her said husband died at Clarkstown, County and State aforesaid, on the seventh day of January, 1847. That -

- she was not married to him prior to the second day of January Eighteen Hundred, but at the time above stated. She further avers that she is now still his widow, and that she has no certificate or other evidence of her said marriage, nor can she produce any evidence to her knowledge, except of persons who were present.
Elizabeth Stephens
Subscribed and sworn before me the day and year above written, and I certify that I am acquainted with the above named Elizabeth Stephens, believe her to be of the age as above stated and that from age and bodily infirmity she is unable to attend court.
Wm. L. Smith County Judge for Oakland Co.

State of New York, County of Rockland I p.
On this fifth day of August. A.D. One thousand eight hundred and fifty three person- ally appears before the undersigned, County Judge of the County of Rockland in the State aforesaid, Philip Van Kliefen a resident of Greengrove in said County who being duly sworn according to law, doth depose and say that he is well acquainted with Elizabeth Stephens, the widow of Peter Stephens deceased; an applicant for pension, and who has made the annexed affidavit, that he was well acquainted with the said Peter Stephens deceased, in his life time; that he was present at the marriage of the said, Peter and Eliza- beth Stephens, and that they were married in Greeng- rove, in County aforesaid on or about the 17th day of May, A.D. 1817, by Samuel Patton a minister of the Gospel; that he knows of the decease of the said Peter Stephens, and that the said Elizabeth Stephens is still his widow. Philip V. Van Kliefen
Subscribed and sworn before me, the day and year above written. And I certify that I am well acquaint- ed with the witness above named, believe him to be a person of truth and veracity, whose oath can be relied on.
Oppen y F. Fraser County Judge for Rockland Co.

State of New York County of Rockland
On this fifth day of August A.D. One thousand eight hundred and fifty three, person- ally before the undersigned, County Judge of the Coun- ty of Rockland and State aforesaid, Cornelius Dickles a Resident of the town of Orange, County and State aforesaid, who being duly sworn according to law doth depose and say that he is well acquainted with Elizabeth Stephens the widow of Peter Stephens deceas- ed who was a Revolutionary Pensioner - And with whom he was well acquainted in his life time; that he was present when the said Peter Stephens & Elizabeth Stephens were married; And that they were married on or about the 17th day of May A.D. 1817. by - Samuel Pelton a minister of the Gospel, in Orange aforesaid; that the said Peter Stephens died about the 7th day of January 1847 and that the said Elizabeth Stephens is still his widow.
Cornelius Dickles
Subscribed and Sworn before me the day and year above written, And I certify that I am well acquainted with Cornelius Dickles above named believe him to be a man of truth and veracity, whose truth can be relied on.
Wm F. Fraser County Judge for Rockland Co.

State of New York County of Rensselaer } p.
On this 22 nd day of August A.D. 1858 personally before the undersigned - County Judge of the County of Rensselaer, Came Abraham Hogenkamp, a Resident of said County who being duly sworn, doth depose and say, that he is well acquainted with Elizabeth Stephens who has made the annexed affidavit for Pension that he was well acquainted with Peter Ste- phens the husband of said Elizabeth that they lived neighbours to deponent until the death of said Peter Stephens, that the following ab- stract of the marriage of Peter Stephens to Eliza- beth Sickles was made by deponent from the register of Marriages, solemnized by Reverend Samuel Pelton viz Peter Stephens to Elizabeth Sickles May 17th 1847 th which said register was left in the care of this deponent when the said Samuel Pelton, removed from the County of Rensselaer and has been in his charge ever since.
Abm Hogenkamp
Subscribed & sworn before me the day and year above written And I certify that I am personally acquainted with the above named witness, that he is a person of truth and veracity whose

oath can be relied on.
Wm. F. Fraser County Judge

Seal
State of New York County of Rockland
I John E. Hogenkamp Clerk of the County of Rockland, do hereby certify that William F. Fraser before whom the foregoing affidavits are taken is the County Judge of the Court aforesaid. And that the signatures purporting to be his are genuine to the best of my knowledge. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County the Twenty Second day of August One Thousand Eight-hundred and fifty three.
John Hogenkamp Clerk

State of New York } Rockland County }
On this seventeenth day of October 1832 - personally appeared before me one of the justices of the peace of said County, Garret Smith, a resident of said County the Township of Lower Pompton in the county of Bergen and State of New York Jersey, aged seventy five years, who being first duly sworn doth depose and say, that he was well ac- quainted with Peter Stephens a resident of the town of Clarke- town in the Revolutionary War and knows him to have faith- fully served nine months in the year 1778 in a company - commanded by Capt John Bell in Col d Graham's Regiment as a Sergeant, and three months in a company commanded by Capt Abraham Underdonk, having myself served with him sworn to and subscribed Garret Smith the day and year aforesaid
Abm B. Stephens Justice of Peace I do certify that I have known Garret Smith the above deponent for a number of years and believe him to be a man of veracity whose testimony can be relied on Abm B. Stephens Justice of Peace
I David Pyle Clerk of the County of Rockland do hereby certify, that the above and within name Abm B. Stephens before whom the above affidavit purports to have been taken, was at the date thereof a magistrate in and for said County, and am well acquainted with his handwriting, and do verily believe that his signature thereto, is his own proper handwriting
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of Office the 29 th day of Nov r 1832 David Pyle

Abraham Storms a resident of Clarkstown in the County of Rockland aged about 73 years, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that he is well acquainted with Peter Stephens of said Town, that he has known the said Peter Stephens from a boy to the present time, that the said Peter Stephens served with this deponent in a 3 months service in the Revolutionary war under Cap. Abraham Onderdonk, in Col. Cooper's Regt. That this deponent was taken Prisoner while in said service, and was detained at New York about 38 months, believes the said Peter performed his services to his country in a faithful manner, was a good soldier, and faithful to his country, and is now deemed a respectable Citizen, and a person of veracity, one to whose testimony credit can be given.
Sworn in open Court.
The 24 th Day of November 1802
Encl. No. 10
Abraham Storms
(please turn over)

Abraham Van Houten of Clarkstown in the County of Rockland being duly sworn saith that he has known Peter Stephens of Clarkstown aforesaid from his earliest recollection.
That they performed duty together in the time of the Revolutionary war, under Captain Jacob Onderdonk, and also under Cap. Garmy, and also under Cap. Bell, and after the last mentioned service under Cap. Bell, was again with him under their first and former Cap. Jacob Onderdonk. That the Declaration of his services by him set forth in his declaration, is strictly correct, as far as this deponent served with him, and the rest of the services by him set forth this deponent does not doubt, but believes they were perform- -ed in the manner by him set forth.
He knows him to have been a good and faithful soldier and supporter of the cause of his country in the Revolutionary war. Esteems him a good citizen, a person of veracity, and one on whose testimony the utmost credit may be given, and recollect of the said Peter Stephens being a sergeant in the service under Cap. Bell, by him stated.
Sworn to in open Court. Abraham Van Houten the day above stated.
Daniel Dye Clerk

State of New York } Schoharie County, } On this 26 th day of October 1833 personally appeared before the subscriber, a justice of the peace in and for said county, Peter Stephens of the Town of Coxsackie, County and State aforesaid aged nearly 73 years, and well known in said County, and to the subscriber as a man of truth and veracity, who being duly sworn, saith he is the same Peter Stephens who on the 29 th day of November 1832 made a declaration upon oath of his Revolutionary services in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832, which was done in open court then sitting in said County. When his original declaration was made out, the prop- -are of business before the court was such, as to prevent him from detailing minutely each hour of duty; he has since endeavoured to refresh his memory, by reflection, once thought and reflection on the sub- -ject, am desirous, that the Honorable the Sec- -retary of War and commissioner of pension will receive this, as his amended declaration, in which he will endeavor to set forth more specifically and in as much detail as his memory will allow the Revo- -lutionary services he performed.
That he entered the service of the United States - under the following named Officers, and served as herein stated. In the month of July 1776, the Volunteers for two months under Captain Jacob Cederdonk - then stationed at Haverstraw, from which place they were marched to Poughkeepsie (landing) & Nyack, marching from place to place as necessity required
2-112

guarding the shore & landing places, and protecting the inhabitants. Having served the time they were dismissed. The above statutory duty was rendered previous to his becoming of the age, requisite for doing military duty.
In the month of December 1776. He served was ordered on duty under Capt. Jacob Underdonk and served one month & six days. Then stationed at Earlstown Precinct of Raritan County of Orange (now Rockland) from which place the opponent with the company was marched to the frontiers in Bergen County State of New Jersey. Stationed at Hackensack Liberty Pole Bergen Wood, & along the Hudson River, guarding the shore & landing places and also defending the County. The British at this time had possession of the City of New York & the Refugees & Tories had possession of Salem County, who were continually committing depredations upon the inhabitants. The time having been served he was dismissed. Both the above terms of service were rendered under Col. Nathaniel Hays' Regiment who was Commander of the Regiment, to which this company was attached. On the first day of February 1777 he enlisted for three months in a company commanded by Capt. Abraham Underdonk. Colonel Gilbert Cope's Regiment during which term of service he was stationed the greater proportion of the time at Closter, recollecting that while there on frequent guard duty four of our men went out on a patrolling party were surprised and four taken prisoners at the English neighbourhood (at Jersey) and taken to New York by the enemy, whereof Abm. Storm, one of his present Townsmen was one. From which place they were marched along the shore of the Hudson River to Haverstraw, doing guard duty. The term of service being expired they were discharged.

In the month of May 1777 He enlisted in a company commanded by Capt. John Farmer Colonel Anthony as, Corporal Hays Regiment, for seven months, stationed along the shores of the Hudson river, in the Towns of Haverstraw Orange & Clarkstown & from which place they were marched to Closter, Liberty pole & English neighborhood in the County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, and which was then termed the British lines, the duty on this occasion was, guarding the shores & landing - places and protecting the inhabitants from the incursions of foraging & plundering parties also to prevent the illicit trade which was then carried on with the British, who had possession of the City of New York and the lower part of the County of Bergen. The term of enlistment having expired they were marched to Clarkstown and dismissed in the month of Decem- ber. In April 1778 He enlisted in a Company Com- manded by Capt. John Bell - Colonel Grahams Regiment for nine months, at Clarkstown County of Orange (now Rockland) and State of New York and at which time he was appointed Sergeant in his said Company and duly authorized to act as such, and performed duty accordingly. From which place they were marched along the shores of the Hudson river in the new County of Rockland for a short line then crossed the Hudson river at Nyack to Ferry Town in Westchester County, and marched from thence to White Plains, & there joined the main Army which was stationed there at that time, & at which place we remained some time, our company was then at- tached to a body of troops commanded by Major Peter Tappan and marched to Kings Ferry where we crossed the Hudson River, and marched to Hackensack and New Bridge in New Jersey. While there went on a picket guard at the Liberty pole in Bergen County where we were surprised, routed & dispersed by the British Force, some of our men taken prisoners, a -

few killed and a number wounded. Then retreated from new bridge to Paramus, where we were stationed for some time, doing guard duty. Then marched to now Rockland County to guard the shores of the Hudson river, then marched to the western side of said Coun- ty to protect the inhabitants against the maraud- ers & horse thieves, who were making depredations in that section of our country, where he remained during the remainder of the term of enlistment and was discharged the latter part of December or the first of January. In the first declaration it is stated - that the horse was cut and mangled at old tappan, which is correct, it appears also that they belonged to our Corps, which is an error of the draughtsman making them so. That in May 1779 he again - joined Capt. Jacob Anderson's Company of Militia was appointed Corporal by the Capt. and duly autho- rized to act as such, & performed duty accordingly, for six months, guarding the shores of Hudson River between Stony Point, & Closter in Bergen County & also protecting the inhabitants. That the British were moving up & down said river & land wherever it became practicable. That the remaining part of the war he served as a minuteman on alarms excepting one month, in October 1781 he served as a substitute for Gerrit Cropper in a Company Comm- anded by Capt. Frederick Bone, stationed along the shore of the Hudson River between Haverstraw, and Closter, marching from place to place as ne- cessity required, doing guard duty.
From the great length of time which has elapsed since the before recited services were rendered, many particulars must have escaped his mem- ory. He has related all which he can remember, as connected with his services & which are calculated to explain them; in the aid of time, he may in some

instances have fallen into mistakes. In as is a reasonable allowance for frailty of human memory whilst he has faithfully endeavoured to adhere conscientiously to the truth in all the events and occurrences of which he has spoken, and he verily believes that he faithfully served his Country, in the war of the revolution for the full period of nine months as a sergeant thirteen months as a Corporal, and the residue of the time as a private, being in actual service in the field for each term allowed, and was not employed in a civil pursuit for which he is claiming a pension under the act of Congress of June 7 th 1832.
Given and subscribed before me the 2 th day of October 1832 David Clark Justice of the Peace
States of New York I certify that I am acquainted with Peter Stephens of Clarkstown County of Rockland and State of New York and Jacob D Clark residing at Clarkstown in said County to hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Peter Stephens of Clarkstown County of Rockland who has subscribed and sworn to the above entitled declaration, that we believe him to be 72 years of age that he is reputed and believed in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a soldier in the Revolution and that we concur in that opinion.
Alexander H. Warner
Given and subscribed this 16 th day of October December 1833 John J Blanche Justice
Jacob D Clark

I do hereby certify, to the Secretary of war and commissioner of pensions that Alexander H Warner is a who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman the  the resident in the Town of Clarkstown and that Jacob D Clark who has also signed the same is a res- ident in the Town of Goshen in the County of Rockham, is a credible person, and that their Statement is entitled to credit.
John S Blanch Justice
State of New York Rockland County ss.
I, David Pyle, Clerk of the said County, do hereby certify, That David Clark, before whom the preceding amended Declaration was sworn, and John S Blanch, before whom Alexander H Warner and Jacob D Clark and Abraham Steins was sworn, and John Stagg, before whom Reynard Hopfer, Abraham Van Houten and Abraham Garrison was sworn, and whose names is subscribed to the different affidavits and certificates are justices of the peace, in and for the County aforesaid, duly commissioned and sworn and that their respective names subscribed thereto is their genuine signatures. — And that the papers of Peter Stephens are in the same condition in which they passed the Court on the twenty ninth day of November, 1832. and that the amended declaration and additional testimony are now annexed to them.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this eighteenth day of December 1833
David Pyle

State of New York Rockland County ss 23
Personally appeared before me the subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for said County, Reynard Hopper of the the Township of Franklin County of Bergen & State of New Jersey aged 79 years, who being duly sworn saith that he is personally acquainted with Peter Stithy of the Clarkstown  same place who has applied for a pension under the law of Congress of June 1 st 1832, who deposeth and saith that he has a perfect recollection of serving with him in the war of the Revolution as fellow soldiers under Capt. John Bell for 9 months in Col. Grahams Infantry Regiment, in April 1778 was  was stationed at Clarkstown in the County of Orange (now Rockland) at which place he deponent was appointed Sergeant by the Captain of said Company and performed duty accordingly from which place they were marched along the shore of the Hudson River for a short time doing guard duty, then crossed the Hudson River at a place to Sary Town Westchester County and marched from thence to White Plains where the Company joined the main army which was at that time stationed there, where we remained some time, Our com- pany was then attached to a body of troops commanded by Major Peter Sell, from which place we were marched to King- s Ferry where we crossed the Hudson River and was marched from thence to Hackensack and from thence to the New Bridge in the County of Bergen in the State of New Jersey where we were stationed some time, while there he was ordered out by his Officer as Sergeant of a picket guard of which deponent was one, at the Liberty Pole, where we were sur- prised routed & dispersed by the British light Horse, some of our men were taken prisoners, a few killed and a num- ber wounded. When routed to to Paramus where we were stationed for some time doing guard duty, we were then marched to the shore of Hudson River in now Rock- land County, to guard the shore of said River, we were marched from thence to the western side of said County to protect the inhabitants against the marauders and

Home Thieves who were making depredations in that section of our country, where we remained the remainder of the term of enlistment. That the said - Peter Stephens was personally engaged throughout the nine months service and was honorably discharged.
Sworn and subscribed before me this 16th day of October 1833
John Stagg Justice
Rena P. Stephens
I hereby certify that I am acquainted with Rena Stephens the subscribing witness, believe him to be a man of truth & veracity, & when on the stand can be relied on
John Stagg Justice

State of New York Rockland County
Personally appeared before the Subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for said County, Abraham Van Houten aged 73 years, who being duly sworn saith, that he is acquainted with Peter Stephens a fellow townsman of his, who has applied for a pension under the act of Congress of June 7 th 1832, and who deponth and saith that he has a perfect recollection of the services of said Peter Stephens in the war of the Revolution, in the companies commanded by the following named officers. That in May 1777. The said Peter Stephens enlisted for seven months as a corporal in a company commanded by Capt. John Garner, that the duty performed was guar- ding the shore of the Hudson river between Haverstraw in now Rockland County, and the British lines in Bergen County at Jersey. And this deponent further says that he distinctly recollects, that the said Peter Stephens in April 1778 again enlisted in a company commanded by Capt. John Bell (Col. Grahams regiment), for nine months, that the said Peter Stephens was appointed sergeant by the Capt. of said company and performed duty accordingly. That they were marched from Clarkstown the place of enlistment, to the Hudson river performing guard duty a short time, that they then cross- ed the Hudson river at Nyack, to Larry Town in West- chester County and marched from thence to White Plains where the company joined the main army which was at that time stationed there, where we remained some time. Our Company was then attached to a body of troops, com- manded by Major Peter Fell, from which place we were marched to Kings ferry where we crossed the Hudson river, and was marched from thence to Hackensack, from thence to New bridge in the County of Bergen, where we were stationed some time, while there said Stephens was ordered on picket guard at the liberty pole. From New bridge we retreated to Paramus, here we remain- ed a short time doing guard duty, we were marched

from thence, to the shore of the Hudson river in the new County of Rockland doing guard duty. From thence we were marched to the western side of said County to protect the inhabitants from being plundered by loose thieves and banditti that were infesting that section of the country. The term of enlistment having expired we were dismissed. In the spring of 1779, the said Peter Stephens joined a company of militia commanded by Captm Jacob Col. Hays Regiment Underwood for six months, was appointed corporal by his said Captm, and performed duty accordingly, guarding the intermediate places between Stony point in Rockland County and Closter in Bergen County. And this deponent further says that the said Peter Stephens was not engaged in any civil pursuit, but was in actual military service during the above recited periods, being a fellow soldier with him.
Sworn and subscribed this 26 th day of October 1833 before me
Abraham Van Horsten
John Stagg Justice
I do hereby Certify that I am acquainted with Abraham Van Horsten the subscribing witness and believe him to be a man of truth and veracity whom a court can be relied on.
John Stagg Justice

State of New York Rockland County
Personally appeared before the subscriber a Justice of the peace in and for said County, Abraham (Garrison) of said County of Rockland age 76 years, who being duly sworn, says that he is personally acquainted with Peter Stephens of the same place, who has apprehended for a person under the act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832. Also that he has a perfect recollection of serving with the said Peter Stephens in the war of the Revolution under the following named officers and for the full periods mentioned below, being neighbours at that time. That the said Peter Stephens enlisted in a company commanded by Captain John Garner, as a corporal, for seven months in the spring of 1777, then stationed on the shore of the Hud- son river, in the Town of Haverstraw, County of Orange (now Rockland) and marching from place to place through the Town of Haverstraw, Clarkstown & Orange, guarding the shore & landing places on the Hudson river as necessity required and protecting the inhabitants against the incursions of the enemy. Also that the said Peter Stephens served one month in the year 1781 under Captain Prentice Bowen doing guard duty along the shore of the Hudson river between Haverstraw in the now County of Rockland and Closter in Bergen County New Jersey. Also that the said Peter Stephens served six months as a corporal in a company commanded by Captain Jacob Underwood in the year 1779, guarding the intermediate places between Haverstraw & Closter. And this deponent further says that the said Peter Stephens was not engaged in any civil - pursuit but was in actual military service, during the above recited periods.
Sworn and subscribed this 26 th day of October 1833 before me -
Abraham Garrison John Stagg Justice
I do hereby certify that I am acquainted with the subscribing witness Abraham Garrison, & believe him to be a man of truth and verac- ity, whose oath can be relied on.
John Stagg Justice

State of newyork Rockland County } Personally appeared before the subscriber one of the Justices of the peace in and for said County Abraham Storms of the same place 74 years of age who being Duly Sworn says that he is personally acquainted with Peter Stephens of the same County who has who has applied for a pension under the Act of Congress passed June 7 th - 1832 who in his oath deposeth and says that he has of perfect recollection serving with the said Peter Stephens in the Revolution- war and to his knowledge served under the following named officers that he the said Storms and Peter Stephens listed in a company commanded by Abraham Vandank as Captain and Gilbert Cuyper as Colonel for 3 months they enlisted on the first day of February 1777 in the town of Clarkstown in Rockland County that some time the last of march was an attack made at the Libertypole in the State of New Jersey in company with said Stephens went on a patrol party and was taken prisoner and to New York where he remained for about 8 months he believes the said Peter performed his duty to his Country in a faithful manner was a good Soldier and faithful to his Country and is now deemed a respectable citizen and person of ma- sity one to whom testimony credit can be given therein this
Subscribed & sworn to before me This 1 st day of December 1833
John T Blanch Justice
Abraham Storms
I Do Certify that Abr m Storms who subscribed & sworn to the above Affidavit is a man of good Character And his oath may be Relied upon as I am personally acquainted with him
John T Blanch Justice of the peace

W/pt of Elizabeth Stephens for Pension -
A. H. Stephens Nyack N. Y.

State of Kentucky County of Rockland
On the sixteenth day of April A.D. One thousand eight-hundred and fifty-three personally before the undersigned, County Judge of the County of Rockland came Elizabeth Stephens aged 83 years, a res- ident of the County aforesaid, who being duly sworn accom- pany to law, doth depose and say, that she is the widow of Peter Stephens deceased, who was a soldier of the Re- -volutionary War and a pensioner of the United States under an act of Congress passed 7th June 1832. at the rate of 91 dollars and 33 cents per annum or thereabout, as will appear by the records now on file in the Pension Office
She further states that she was married to the said Peter Stephens in Rockland County, on the 17th day of May A.D. 1817. by one Samuel Pelton a Minister of the Gospel and that her name before her said marriage was Elizabeth Sickles. That her said husband died in Clarkstown, County aforesaid on the 7th day of January 1847. And that she has not intermarried since his death, but is still his widow. She further states, that she has no Certificate or other Record Evidence of her said marriage and that the Minister by whom she was married, is either dead or has removed to parts unknown to this deponent.
She makes the above declaration in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress passed the 3rd day of February A.D. 1853. granting pensions to certain widows of Revo- -lutionary officers and soldiers, who married subsequent to 1st January 1800
Elizabeth Stephens
Subscribed and sworn before me
The day and year above written. And I certify that I have no interest in the application to which the above affidavit relates.
J. F. Fisher County Judge for Rockland County
Note: The words has interlined & and undetermined inserted before the execution hereof
J. F. Fisher

State of New York County of Roekland } ss.
In this 16 th day of April A.D.
One thousand eight hundred and fifty three personally before the undersigned County Judge of the County of Roekland, name Cornelius Sickles a resident of said County, who being duly sworn according to law, doth depose and say, that he is well acquainted with Elizabeth Stephens the widow of Peter Stephens and that he was present when the said Peter Stephens and Elizabeth Stephens were married, and that they were married on or about the 17 th day of May A.D. 1817 by Am Samuel Petton a minister of the Gospel. And that they lived together until the death of said Peter Stephens, and that the said Elizabeth Stephens is still his widow, and he further says that he has no interest in the application made by her for a pension.
Cornelius Sickles
Subscribed and sworn before me
The day and year above written, And I certify that the witness is a person of truth and veracity, whose oath can be relied on. And I further certify that I have no interest in the application to which the above affidavit relates.
Wm F. Fraser County Judge for Roekland County

State of New York } County of Rockland } ss.
On the 16 th day of April A.D. One thousand eight-hundred and fifty-three personally, before the undersigned, County Judge of the County of Rockland - Carmen Ralph C. Vanhouren - a Resident of said County, who being duly sworn according to law, doth depose and say that he is well acquainted with Elizabeth Stephens the widow of Peter Stephens deceased, that he was present when the said Peter Stephens and Elizabeth Stephens were married, And that they were married on or about the 17 th day of May A.D. 1817, by one Samuel Patton a Minister of the Gospel, And that they lived together until the death of said Peter Stephens. And that the said Elizabeth Stephens is still his widow, And he further says he has no interest in the application made by her for a pension.
Subscribed and Sworn
Ralph C. Vanhouren
before me the day and year above written, and I certify that the witness is a person of truth and veracity, whose oath can be relied on, And I further certify that I have no interest in the application to which the above Affidavit relates
Wm F. Fraser County Judge for Rockland County

State of New York } ss I hereby Certify that Rockland County } Wm. F. Fraser Esq., before whom the above within affidavits were taken was at the time of taking the same County Judge in and for said County & that the signatures pur- porting to be his is genuine. —
And I further Certify that I have no interest in the result of the within claim on the proceedings thereof
Witness my hand & seal of office this 18 day of Ap. 1853. John E. Wogenkamp Clerk

Alma

Brief in the case of Elizabeth Stevens, widow of Peter Stevens Rockland County and State of New York act 3 rd February 1853.
Claim, ("original," or "for increase")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditionary, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband was a pensioner under the act of June 7. 1832
Parol proof of marriage - duly certified to be credible
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
A. P. Stephens Esq., Nyack, Rockland Co
Name and residence of Agent
N.Y.
K. H. Dyer,
Examining Clerk.

Hyde Park N. Y. August 28. 1853
Sir, I have recd a notice from the Hon. Commissioner of Pension, that the claim of Elizabeth Stevens, for bounty due at $36.46 3/4 is suspended. -
Mrs Elizabeth Stevens, Widow of Peter Stevens is inscribed on the Pension Roll, commencing 3 July 1853, at the rate of 91 3 / 100 dollars per annum. Signed by R. McLellan Secy of the Interior 15th Sept. 1853. Recorded in the Pension Office on the Roll of Pensioners under act February 3. 1853. Page 83. Vol. 1.
Mr Peter Stevens was a revolutionary Pensioner under the act of 1832, if my recollection is right, and drew a Pension under that act until he died.
The Clerks in the Pensions department I have found frequently make errors. May I not be thought too troublesome in requesting a reexamination of this case, as I well know there is a record of his services & have seen the papers while Mr Cole, had charge of that department.
Hon
J. Minton Comr.
Respectfully your Obedt Servant
A. P. Stephens

Dear
John H. Collins Commissioner of Pensions.
Under the act granting Bounty bills to Soldiers of the Revolution & the widows of soldiers, Elizabeth Supers the widow of Paul Stearns who was a soldier & a pensioner of the United States during his life time - made application for Bounty money, which application is suspended, till the evidence of his services as set forth by him on file in the Pension office, together with the evidence connected with her application, be suffi- cient to entitle her to receive the Bounty for which she has applied, or will she have to produce other evidence to make her claim satisfactory.
Respectfully your Obedient Servant A. P. Stephens
Albany N. Y. April 27. 1856

Pension Office, Sept. 10. 1853
Sir,
Please certify the time to which the within named pension was paid; and (if in your power) the date of his death
Very respectfully, James M. Hart
L. Wallace X. A. Cummins
H. Buel Esq. Present 3,
(See other side.)

Peter Stevens, At 7 th June 1832 $91.33 p. an.- Died 7 th January 1848, Paid to his death. J Barstow Executor.

597 Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. _____
Elizabeth Stevens, Widow Peter Stevens, Prio. Conf. Ex. Supt. Rev. War.
Act: Feb. 3. 1883.
Index:—Vol. M. , Page 238
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Pension Office
Sir,
Please certify in this case again - The proof shows the pensioner's death to have occurred in 1848.
Very respectfully Your Ob't Servt
J. C. Lee For the Commr.
1st Bt Eng 3rd Bt Inf Present
In the first report made in this case, Peter Stevens died 7 th Jan. 1848; - - You say above "the proof shows the Pensioner's death to have occurred 1848." - Your re- mark agrees with the record in this Office. [see other side.]

Peter Stevens, at 4 th June '32, was living on the 28 th October 1847 and drew his semi-annual Pen- sion, up to 4 th Sept. '47, as proved by the oath of James P. Stevens, com- mission of Deeds, New York City Roll.-
Peter Stevens, died on the 7 th day of January 1848, in the County of Rockland, N.Y. - proved before William H. Hovasen, County Judge, on the 6 th March 1848; Elizabeth Stevens, his widow, by her Attorney, drew the arrears of Pension to 4 th Jan. 1848; - The original Pension Certificate was surrendered to this Office when the last pay- ment was made. - viz Page. 1848.-
J. Burt sd Auditor

27.612
5 Sto Am

No 1189 or Stevens Elizabeth Stephens widow of Peter N. Y.
Lot to A. P. Stephens June 24/53.
Act Heby 3/53

Philadelphia PA AUG 29 1950
4463 1950
FREE
Mr. and Mrs. John G. Minton Committee on Pension Washington City D.C.