Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 7211, for Peter Steffey, Virginia

SERVICE
NUMBER _____
Na.
Stephy Peter Margaret
No 7211
B.L.H. 34600-160-55-
CONTENTS

Increase, 5.95 Virginia
Margaret Stoffey widow of Peter Stoffey Virginia Regt who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private ,
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 96 dollars 88 cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853. first payment 27 July 1868 made since
Certificate of Pension issued 11th day of Dec r 1868 and sent to B. M. Garmell Richmond Va
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 158 Vol. II
July 27/68
J. M. S.
sent

P.S. Buckingham June 21 1853
Virginia 12.556
Peter Steffey
Wythe in the State of Virginia who was a pri. in the company commanded by Captain Stater of the Regt. commanded by Col. Christin in the Virginia line for 10 months
Inscribed on the Roll of Virginia at the rate of 33 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 9 th day of May '33 and sent Isaac D. Le rock Wythe C.H. Va.
Arrears to the 4th of March '33 66.66 Semi-ant. allowance ending 4 Sept. 16.66
$ 83.32 1/2
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Nov June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by Will Miller Clerk, Book E. Vol. 6 - Page 26

State of Virginia May the County of P.
On this fourteenth day of January 1833 personally appeared in open court before the Justices of the county court of Wythe County now sitting Peter Staffey a resident of the said county of Wythe, is being a court of record having power to fine and imprison, aged seventy three years on the 3 rd day of June last past, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to attain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June the 7 th 1832. That he entered the service of the United States while a resident of Hampshire County, Virginia, now Wythe County, in September 1776. As a volunteer under Capt Isaac Blocher, Lieut. Daniel Young, and Col. Christie, and since the term of three months, that he was marched from the place of his enlistment to the Long Island of Hobson, where there was a general rendezvous of all the troops, and from there to the Cherokee towns, in the Cherokee nation, and remained there three weeks, before he returned, he then returned to the Long Island, and remained there until he was discharged which was some time in December 1776. by Capt Blocher, that he was a non-commissioned or written discharged. That he entered the service of the United States since a second time, while a resident of Lancaster County State of Pennsylvania as a substitute for John Snyggart in September 1779. he thinks, and since the term of three months, under the following officers Capt Peter Artz, Major Shouffler Col. Hambley from Lancaster that he was marched from the place of his enlistment where he entered the service up the Susquehanna river from Harris Ferry to Sunbury on the Susquehanna, from there to Buffalo Valley where he remained about two months he was then guarding the frontier which was greatly annoyed by the Indians, that he then returned to Sunbury and

was then discharged by Capt. Peter Art some time in December 1779. but never no written discharge. That he entered the Service of the United States a third time while still a resident of the county of Lancaster County Pennsylvania, in July 1781. as a Substitute for Mathias Beger, and served the term of two months under the following named officers, Capt. David Grouse, & Col. Hooverly, that he was marched from the said place where he entered the service as aforesaid from Lebanon, to the town of Lancaster, also in the county of Lancaster, to guard the British prisoners about fifteen in number stationed there, and was discharged in September 1781. by Capt. David Grouse, but never no written discharge. That he entered the Service of the United States a fourth time, while still a resident of the county of Lancaster in Pennsylvania, as a drafted soldier about five days after his last return from duty, in September 1781. and served the term of two months, under the following named officers Capt. Stator, and Col. Hooverly, and was marched to the same place Lancaster, and for the same purpose as last above mentioned, to guard the British Prisoners as above stated, and was discharged by Capt. Stator but never no written discharge, which was in November 1781. he thinks, that he never was in any battle in any of his terms of service aforesaid, that he has no documentary evidence to which he has access, nor any person by whom he can prove his service, that he can get, that he was born in the year 1759. the 8 th day of June in Lancaster County Pennsylvania that he left the said place of his birth, in the year 1776. and came to Frederick Virginia (now Wythe County) he thinks in May, and served the first term as above stated and then returned to Lancaster as a resident there about three years, and then returned to Wythe County Virginia where he has ever since, and still resides, that he has no record of his age, that he knows of no one present, that he is known to the following persons in his neighborhood who can testify as to his service, and their belief of his service as a res

Statutory Affirm
He hereby relinquishes any claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state, or territory whatever, sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid
Peter his  Staffey Staffey Mark
We Casper Gost - a Clergyman residing in the county of Wythe State of Virginia and Christopher Brown residing in the same place and in the neighborhood of Peter Staffey the abn applicant for a pension hereby certify that - in our united acquaintance with Peter Staffey, who has sworn to and subscribed the abn declaration, that we believe him to be of the age of seventy three years, that he is righted, and believes in the neighborhood when he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution and that we concur in that opinion,
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid
1832 1759 1755
Casper Gost M.G. Christopher Brown
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 abovenamed applicant was a revolutionary soldier and served as he states. And the Court further certifies that it appears to them that Casper Gost who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the said County of Wythe and that Christopher Brown who has also signed the same is a resident in the said County of Wythe, and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I John P. Mathews, Clerk of the Court of Wythe County aforesaid, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Peter Staffey for a pension.
In

In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this 31 st day of January 1833.
J. P. Mathews. Clk.
By A. B. Moore. D.C.
445.
Peter Stephen Dean for a pension.
Virginia
My communication relating to the within will be found in the house of delegates at. May the 6. 1833.

168. 177. Declaration of Margaret Steffen
From W m O. Yost Salem, Va. Virginia

State of Virginia County of Wythe
On this 14 th day of June 1855 personally appeared before me a justice of the peace in and for the County and State aforesaid Margaret Stoffey aged 65 years a resident of the County of Wythe in the State of Virginia, who being duly sworn according to law declares that she is the widow of Peter Stoffey , deceased, who was a private in the revolutionary war and that her husband was pensioned, during his lifetime at the rate of _____ dollars per annum, which he drew up to the time of his death, she further declares that her husband served in said war under Colonel Whitaker .
She further states that she was married to the said Peter Stoffey in the County of Wythe in the State of Virginia, on the 3 rd day of December 1819 by one George Hoor a Southern minister and that her name before her said marriage was Margaret Weyrick ; that her said husband died at his residence in the County of Wythe, State of Virginia, on the 13 th day of January 1836 and that she is now a widow.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the County land to which she may be entitled under the act approved March 3 rd 1855.
Margaret X Stoffey mark
We Joseph Gogleyong and John Weyrick residents of the County of Wythe in the State of Virginia, upon our oath declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Margaret Stoffey in our presence, and that we believe from the appearance and statements of the applicant that she is the identical person she represents herself to be. we further declare that Peter Stoffey is dead, and that Margaret Stoffey is a widow at this time, and that they lived together as husband and wife up to the time of his death, and that the fact of their lawful marriage has never been doubted by any of their neighbours.
Joseph Gogleyong John Weyrick

The foregoing declaration and affidavits 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.
H. Grossclose J.P.
Virginia By the County to Wit
I Harold S. Matthews Clerk of the County Court of Wythe County do certify that George H. Hoad was a minister of the Gospel as shown by Records in my office & that he celebrated the rites of Matrimony between Peter Steffy and Margaret Myrick on the 2 nd day of December 1819
In testimony whereof I have set my hand & affixed the seal of the County Court this 12 th day of June 1855
Teste
H.S. Matthews, C.C.
Virginia By the County to Wit
I Harold S. Matthews Clerk of the County Court do certify that M c Groseclose whose name is signed to the foregoing Decla- ration is and was at the time an acting Justice of the peace & full faith ought to be given all his official acts as such
In testimony whereof I have set my hand & affixed the seal of the County Court at my office in Wytheville the 12 th June 1855
Teste - H.S. Matthews, C.C.

22,685.
Peter Staffey: Virginia.
Admit as a per cent for 10 months 33.33
Isaac Leftwich John P. Matthews, Clk.: Wythe County Co. Ho. Va.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
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 subjjoined 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 Steffy, of Wythe Co., Va.
   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.     Vol. 1776 3 P. Capt. Isaac Bleasdale, Lieut. Daniel Young Col. Christopher Fincastle County, Va. from thence to Long Island Fincastle County, Virginia. Aged 73 years. Traditionary.   Sub: in 79 for John Lingart. 3 P. Capt. Rel. Ser. Det. Major Shaeffer, Col. Ham. to the to the to the to the   Sub: in 781 for Matthias Boge. 9 P. Capt. Da... Col. ... to the ...   Drafted '81. 9 P. Capt. Sta... " thence to Buffalo  
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 farther 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 guidance.
[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 three or four months , in the militia, &c. without specifying the hours, 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 [j] 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.
W. R. Surner

Declaration of Margaret Stuffy
Pension, act 3 rd Feb 1853
From Wm O. Gash Lazawell G. H. Va.

State of Virginia County of Wythe } ss:
On this 26 day of September 1856, personally appeared before me a justice of the peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, Margaret Steffey, aged 68 years, who, first being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provisions made by the act of Congress, passed on the 3 d February 1833, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the revolutionary war; That she is the widow of Peter Steffey, who was a private in the revolutionary war, and who was pensioned for his services, in his life time, at the rate of forty dollars per annum, which amount he drew up to the time of his death, his certificate of pension being lost. She may be incorrect as to the amount her husband drew.
She further declares that she was married to the said Peter Steffey on the 2 nd day of Dec r AD 1819 that her said husband died on the 13 th day of Jan y 1837 that she was not married to him prior to the second day of January 1800, but at the time above stated. She further declares that she is now a widow.
Her Margaret X Steffey mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me Henry M. Spangler a justice of the peace in and for the County of Wythe and State of Virginia; and I hereby certify that Margaret Steffey who makes the above declaration is a near neighbor, and that from bodily infor-

mity, and the distance she lives from the county seat She is unable to attend court.
H. M. Sprangler J.P.
We, Elizabeth Sprinkle and John Negeick residents of the County of Wythe in the State of Virginia upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Margaret Stoffey in our presence, and that we were well acquainted with Peter Stoffey in his life time, that he is dead and that Margaret Stoffey is a widow at this time We further declare that Margaret Stoffey who makes this declaration, is unable to appear in court in court, by reason of bodily infirmity living as she does some 25 miles from the county seat, it might be the cause of her immediate death.
Elizabeth Sprinkle John Negeick
The foregoing affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me on this 26 th day of September 1856, and I certify that the affiants are credible persons and that I believe they have no interest in this matter, as I have none myself. Given under my hand the day and year above written
H. M. Sprangler J.P.
Married from the first day of January 1819 till the first day of January 1820
" Peter Stoffey & Margaret Negeick the 2 day of December 1819 George Flohr M.G.
A true extract from certificate returned by George Flohr M.G. With Holmthurs Co.

Virginia Wythe County, to wit
I H. Matthews Clerk of the County Court of Wythe County certify that the foregoing certificate of the marriage of Peter Steffer with Margaret Myrick is truly copied from the records of certificates of marriages and also that H. M. Spangler whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing certificate bearing date the 26 th day of September 1856 is now and was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the peace within and for said County, duly elected Commissioned and qualified and that full faith and credit are due to all his official acts.
In testimony whereof I here set my hand and affix the seal of said Court at office this first day of October 1856
H. Matthews C. R. Wythe County Courts

Rev. and 1812 Wars Section MCS/eel Q
February 20, 1929
Mrs. H.W.Gardner S. Green Street Glasgow, Kentucky
Madam:
I advise you from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W.7211 , it appears that Peter Steffey was born, June 3, 1759, in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
While a resident of Fincastle County, Virginia, to which place he had moved in 1776, he enlisted in September, 1776, served three months as a private in Captain Isaac Bledshor's Company, Colonel Christie's Virginia Regiment.
While a resident of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, he enlisted and served as a private with the Pennsylvania Troops as follows:
From September, 1779, three months under Captain Balser Orth and Colonel Haverley or Hoverley; from July, 1781, two months under Captain David Krause and Colonel Haverly or Hoverly; from September, 1781, two months under Captain Slater or Stater and Colonel Haverley or

Hoverly.
He was allowed pension on his application executed January 14, 1833, at which time he was a resident of Wythe County, Virginia.
He died, January 13, 1836.
Soldier married, December 2, 1819, in Wythe County, Virginia, Margaret Wyrick. She was allowed pension on her application executed October 10, 1853, while a resident of Wythe County, Virginia, and she then stated that she was aged about seventy years.
In 1856, she stated that she was sixty-eight years of age. In 1866, she was living in Bland County, Virginia. In 185 3 , a son-in-law, Isaac Colvin  Corvin , lived in Wythe County, Virginia.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT Commissioner.
See agency book

E. M. Garnett, Aug. 25 th 66, 3 rd M ch 10 th , Sept. 25 th 66,
C. J. [initials]
5957
Virginia R. Margaret Stoffey, widow of Peter.
who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private,
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 33 dollars 33 cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.
Certificate of Pension issued 29 th day of Oct. 1856. and sent to W. O. Yost, Fayetteville C. H. Va.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 156. Vol. H

Application of Margaret Steffey, Widow of Peter Steffey for Restoration to the Pension Rolls—
Filed by E. M. Garmu Atty for applicant

State of Virginia County of Bland,
On this 16 th day of July A.D., One Thousand eight hundred and sixty six, personally appeared before me Jacob Wagner a Justice of the Peace in and for the State and County aforesaid, and a member of the County Court, the same being a Court of record, Margaret Stuffy aged 76 years, a resident of the County of Bland, in the State of Virginia, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the identical person who was a pensioner on the roll of the Agency at Richwood Virginia, and a copy of the Pension Certificate is herewith returned, (as the printed one has been misplaced.) That she has resided since the first day of January A.D. 1866 as follows in the County of Wythe and Bland formerly Wythe. That during this period her means of subsistence has been very limited, and that she has not been in any way against the government of the United States, or has not in any manner encouraged the rebels, or manifested a sympathy with their cause, and she was last paid her pension on the 14 th day of September 1866.
And she does hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint Edgar M. Garmett, of Richmond Va, her attorney to prosecute this her claim and authorize him to receive and receipt for any sums that may be allowed on the same.
Subscribed to before me This 16 th day of July 1866. Jacob Wagner, J.P.
Margaret F. Stuffy mark

Also personally appeared Polly Myrick and H. E. Myrick residents of the county of Bland persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who being by me duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Margaret Stuffy sign her name to the foregoing declaration and they further swear, that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of the applicant and their acquaintance with her that she is the identical person she represents herself to be and they further swear, they have interest in the prosecution of this claim Polly Myrick H. E. Myrick
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 16 th day of July A.D. 1866, and I hereby certify that I have no interest direct or indirect in the prosecution of this claim.
Jacob Wagoner J. P.
I Margaret Stuffy do solemnly swear in the pre- sence of Almighty God that I will henceforth faithfully support, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States, and the Union of the States thereunder, and that I will in like manner, abide by, and faith- fully support all laws, and proclamations which have been made during the existing rebellion with reference to the emancipation of slaves, so help me God. Margaret Stuffy mark Sworn to and subscribed to before me, this 16 th day of July 1866. Jacob Wagoner J. P.

State of Virginia County of Bland J. L. Repass Clerk of the County Court of Bland, County, State of Va, do certify that Jacob Wagoner Esq, before whom the foregoing declaration, affidavits, and acknowledgments, were made, was at the time of taking the same, and still is an acting Justice of the Peace, within and for the County of Bland, duly commissioned and sworn, and that the several signatures purporting to be his, which are appended to said declaration, affidavits and acknowledgments are his genuine signatures. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the County Court of said County, the 21 st Day of July 1885. J. L. Repass Clerk

Additional APPLICATION OF Margaret Steffey of Va For restoration to the Pension Rolls. Widow of Peter Steffey of the Revolutionary War.
P. O. Address Sharon. Bland Co. Va
Chur 6, 26, 86
FILED BY EDGAR M. GARNETT, ATTORNEY FOR APPLICANT. RICHMOND, VA.

STATE OF VIRGINIA, COUNTY OF Smyth
ss.
I, Wm C Seaton
Clerk of the said
County
Court within and for said County, do certify that James Cox
Esq., before whom the foregoing declaration, affidavits and acknowledgement were made, was, at the time of taking the same, and still is, an acting Justice of the Peace within and for said county, duly commissioned and sworn, and that the several signatures, purporting to be his, which are appended to said declaration, affidavits and acknowledgement, are his genuine signatures.
In testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and affix the seal of our said Court, at my Office this 3 d day of Sept 1866
[SEAL.]
W. C. Seaton clerk of Smyth County Court
Wm Cox

Margaret Steffy
Rev L. M. Wilson Boynton Conn
Recd Nov 28 th 1834

Sir:
I can not find the letters entirely in the case of Margaret Stiffey , Va. Act '53 (Revolutionary) records. The marriage is proved, and I know not where objection can be made to the case. Please report.
Very Resp.
J. D. Chapman

Richmond Va Augt. 11 th 1866
Hon Jos. H. Barrett Comr. of Pensions Washington D.C. Sir.
Enclosed please find additional evidence in the case of Margaret Stuffy widow of Peter Stuffy, an applicant for restoration to the Pension Rolls.
Very respectfully Your Ob t Servt O. M. Gannett Attorney -

Wytheville Va. 14 th March 1853
Dr Sir,
Enclosed I send you my altho' only for making the enquiry as to Peter Steffen's pension & what can't be done & through whom &c. - Please examine & let me know Thomas Willbourn whose Claim for County lands you say is suspended, states that after the 31 st of July he was transferred from Capt Wall's Company to that of Capt Edwards of Loudoun County under Col. Mason & this is all the additional information he is able to furnish. He does not recollect the paymaster's name Please let me hear from you as soon as convenient
Your Friend
Genl. P. C. Johnston
P. S. Buckingham
P. S. Please send the Land warrant of James Pickett for 40 acres which was promised in a letter to me long since P.S. B-

Richmond Pa September 8 th 1866
Hon Jas H. Barrett Commissioner of Pensions Sir.
I enclose herewith an additional application of Margaret Steffy Widow of Peter Steffy for restoration to the Pension, Rolls with the additional evidence asked for in your communication of the 26 th of August last.
Very respectfully Your O bed Serv t Benjamin Attorney

Buyer
Applicant to be entered on the Pension Roll Revolutionary War
[Large cursive signature]

Richmond Va. July 26 th 1866
Hon Jno. H. Barrett Comm: of Pensions Washington, D.C. Sir.
Enclosed please find application of Margaret Steffey widow of Peter Steffey a private in the revolutionary War, for restoration to the Pension Rolls!
It seems that the original Pension Certi- -ficate has been misplaced, & I enclose herewith a certified copy of the same
Very respectfully
Your Ob t Servt
O. M. Garrett Atty for Applicant

Copy of Pension Certificate in the case of Margaret Steffey - widow of Peter Steffy a private in the Revolutionary War.

I certify that the following is a true copy. Department of the Interior
Widows Pension,
I certify that in conformity with the first section of the act of February, 1855.
Margaret Steffy
Widow of Peter Steffy, who was a private in the revolutionary war is inscribed on the Pension List at the rate of Thirty three dollars and thirty three cents per annum, commencing on the 1 st of Feb. 1855, and continuing for life unless she should again marry, in which case the pension is not payable after the time of such marriage. Given at the Department of the Interior, this twenty ninth day of Oct. 1856, Examined and countersigned C. M c . Collander by.
I certify
The above certificate as written by me is a true copy of the printed decree which Miss Steffy gave me and I gave it to Mr. Colander. The certificate given under my hand this 23 rd day of July 1856. Jacob Wagner J rs

I, Isaac Colvin, of the County of Wythe, Va., am the son in law of the late Peter Steffey who was a soldier in the Revolution, and who I am informed was entitled to a pension, and that at one time through the agency of some person, drew $45. and no more; and I hereby authorize P. S. Buckingham to take the steps necessary to investigate the matter, & to ascertain from the Pension Office in Washington what facts he can, and to do all things necessary to recover any pension or arrearages thereof, to which the said Peter Steffey was, or his heirs are now entitled to.
Given under my hand this 12 th day of March 1853
Witness G. A. C. Smith — Isaac his Colvin mark

Richmond Va
November 21 st 1868
Hon Chas C. Cox Commissioner of Pensions Sir,
Enclosed please find application of Margaret Stoffey widow of Peter for increase of her Pension under Act 29 th July 1868.
Original pension certificate enclosed
Very respectfully Your Obedt Servt
Dee Gannett Attorney

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NOV 23 1885 FOREIGN OFFICE
2

I hereby certify that I have been well acquainted with Mrs Margaret Stoffey and that she lived with Peter Stoffey deceased who served as a private in the Revolutionary War, and that Mrs Stoffey was always called his wife and that she is yet his widow, and has never married (name under my hand this 14 th day Nov. 1868,
Polly Kyrick
The above named Polly Kyrick personally appeared, and made oath that the foregoing declaration by her subscribed is true Sworn to before me, Nov. 14 th 1868,
Jacob Wagoner, V.P.

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY NOV 23 2005 PENGAD

Treasury Department,
Third Auditor's Office,
October 1 1866.
Sir,
In reply to your letter of 28 ulto: I have to state that Margaret Steffey, Virginia Hovey, act 2 Dec 3 Feb 1853, was last paid to 2 Sept: 1860.
Very Respectfully John Wilson Auditor.
Joseph A. Stewart Esq Commissioner of Pensions
1866

Brief in the case of Margaret Steffey, widow of Peter Steffey — Wythe County and State of Virginia act February 3. 1852.
Claim, ("original," or " for increase .")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband was a pensioner under act of June 7. 1832, at rate of $33.33 1 / 3 per annum, and, his allowance was paid to January 13. 1836 — the date of his death, as per 3 d Auditor's certificate.
Marriage, Dec. 2. 1819, proved by certificate of County Clerk.
( for increase .)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Identity of claimant as the present widow of said pensioner, and his death, proved by two credible witnesses.
Wm O Gost Eng
Name and residence of Agent
Tazewell Court House, Virginia
R Gaddis Examining Clerk.

Brief in the Case of Margaret Steffey, wid. of Peter, for Restoration.
Blount County and State of Tenn.
Act 3 d Feb. 1853, the 2 d Section.
CLAIM FOR NEW PENSION CERTIFICATE,
PROOF EXHIBITED,
Claimant was pensioned on the va roll, at the rate of $33 33 / 100 per An. Widowhood, identity & loyalty is shown by from two to four Revolutionary Affidavits. The Original Certificate of pension is lost.
The Miss Auditor reports the pension last paid Sept. 1 st 1860.
Claim is allowed at the rate of $33 33 / 100 per An. Commencing Sept. 1 st 1860, and to continue during widowhood.
Oct. 6 th '66.
Name and residence of Agent. Col. M. Barnett Esq., Richmond, Tenn.
Blyton, Examining Clerk.

Margaret Shaffey. Payment to be made at Richmond
by James D. Sutton Jr.
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of
Richmond Va
Payable on the 4th September and 4th March
Recorded in the Pension Office on the Roll of Pensioners under act February 3d, 1853, Page 158 Vol. 6.
J. D. Collier Clerk.
A decorative flourish or signature of J. D. Collier, consisting of large, elegant cursive loops.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR.
WIDOW'S PENSION.
5957
Restoration
I certify that, in conformity with the 2d section of the act of February 3, 1853,
Margaret Steffey
widow of Peter Steffey who was a Private in the revolutionary war, is inscribed on the Pension List, at the rate of Thirty three dollars and thirty three cents per annum, commencing on the 4 th of September 1860 3d. of February, 1853, and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.
Given at the Department of the Interior, this Eighth day of October one thousand eight hundred and Sixty Six .
J. T. Otto Acting Secretary of the Interior.
Examined and countersigned.
Levi A. Bane
Commissioner of Pensions.

Additional evidence in the case of Margaret Steffey widow of Peter Steffey, an applicant for restoration to the Pension Rolls —
Filed by E. M. Gannett Atty for applicant

State of Virginia } County of Smyth }
On this 8 th day of August 1866, John B. Owens and Nancy Owens the persons were known to me personally appeared before me in my said County and made oath in due form of law, to the following statements - That they had for many years been intimately acquainted with Margaret Steggy, widow of Peter Steggy - formerly of Wythe County State of Virginia now of Bland County who is a revolutionary Pensioner, and have often heard her express most bitter sentiments, against the late rebellion, they further state upon oath that she has often wished that the rebellion could be crushed and that the leaders of it were hung, and that she could not sympathize in any way for such a cause. --- Given under my hand - James Cox J.P.
Virginia: Smyth County to wit:
I hereby Certify, that James Cox whose foregoing signature appears to the foregoing Certificate bearing date the 8 th day of August 1866, was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly Commissioned & qualified, and that his acts as such are entitled to full faith and credit.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of Smyth County County Court at office in the Town of Marion this 10 th day of August 1866. W. Weston Clerk of Smyth County Court

Treasury Department Third Auditor's Office May 16, 1836.
Sir:
I return herewith the papers in the case of Peter Steffy, & his widow Margaret, enclosed in your letter of the 15 th inst. & in reply have to inform you that the arrear, due to the death of Peter Steffy, of Va., Oct 1833, at $33.33 per am. were paid at Richmond on the 9 th day of April 1836 to Charles M. Mitchell, attorney of Margaret Steffy widow of the pensioner. The amount paid was $11.93.
Very Respectfully Yours off. Servt.
Chas. S. Rind Acting Auditor.
J. Minor Esq. Comm te of Pensions

Lynchburg Virginia Feby 27 th 1856
Sir
You will see from the enclosed letter that Mr Corvin wishes to know something about the balance of Pension or whatever it is due his father-in-law Mr Peter Stuffy or Peter Stuffy
Be pleased to examine into it & give me a history of the case —
Yours Respectfully Lafayette W Gray
Committee of Pensions

Wythe County, Virginia February 23, 1856
Mr. Lafayette W Gray, I have a soldiers claim of the revolutionary war, and I would like to get you to attend to the claim, and if you will except of the claim, I will give you one half to get the other half, my Father in law Peter Steffy, or John Peter Steffy, I think he had a double name, was in the revolutionary war he received one yearly draw of ninety six Dollars or something of that amount, the Register sent a letter up to Robert Giboney about four years ago that I should attend to the claim and get the back draw
I have had several men to see to it and they have baffled me so much about it that I believe that they have lifted the money I gave them a power of Attorney for the money and they say it has all run thread and went to nothing, Now if you will attend to it for me and see whether it is lifted or not or if you get the money you shall have half of the amount the man that got the Power of Attorney is worth the money provided he has lifted the claim, send me an answer whether you will attend to it on these terms or not as soon as you receive this letter, your H
Isaac Corrin

March 18. 1853
Pow: atty: in case of Peter Steffer
Pension Office building
Genl. John  Washington P. S. Buckingham
Virginia May
Mr. C. Johnston or E. Heath Esq. Washington City D. C.

Margaret Steffey, widow of Peter Steffey - Wythe Co. - Virginia
Admitted, Act Feb'y 3, 1853. at rate of $33.33 c per Annum. Commencing at date of said Act.
Husband was a private 18 months -
Pay to widow
Certificate to W m O. Gost, Esq. Tazewell Co. Va. Virginia

Nov. 9, 1853.
Appel of Margareta Stephens, widow of Peter, Nathan co.,
Pa.
Oct 26th 1853 Section
J. L. Lewis, Present. J. L. Lewis General Agent Commission of Andrew

Pension Office
November 12 1853.
Sir, Please report time of last payment to, or death of within named pensioner
Respectfully & J. Burt Esq. B. Hooe. 3 and Johnston Present.
Peter Stepney, act 1832 $33.33 p. an. — Due 13 th January 1836, Paid to his death
Sam d . J. Rind Actg. Auditor.

Pension claim of Margaret Stoffey Feb. 3 rd of February 1853
Stuart For Trippe
2 a ves h at Feb 3/53
Official Business
Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D. C.

34,600 W
Ms. A. 9. 2. 1 Ms. A. 9. 2. 1

No 3.603
VA Appl of Margaret Geffy of Peter Set to S. Lewis Nov: 15 1853
Gray v. Enoch Hunt. May 16/54
Set: A. H. Hunt Nov: 29 th 1854. Lafayette W Gray Mch 5-1856 Hon. J. McMullen, Apl. 16/56 Same May 19. 1856 Act Feb. 3 1855

J Minot Esq Commissr of Pensions Washington D C

Declaration of Margaret Hester widow of Peter Hester for renewal of pension; her husband having been a pensioner under act of 1832, and said act made in open court and sustained by two witnesses - order when obtained the original pension for Peter for Revolutionary services
Presented by C. N. Kears Washington City

Virginia At a Court held for Wythe County at the Courthouse on Monday the 10 th day of October 1853
" Wythe County to wit
On this 10 th day of October 1853 personally appeared in open Court, being a Court of record for the County of Wythe. Margret Steffey Resident in said County aged about seventy years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration That she is the widow of Peter Steffey, that the said Peter Steffey was a private soldier in the revolutionary war, that served in the Company commanded by Captain Fletcher, but she does not recollect the regiment nor by whom the regiment was commanded; that the said Peter Steffey's name was on the Pension List under the act of Congress of 1832 during his life . She further states that she was legally married to the said Peter Steffey & since his death she has remained a widow and is still a widow
John Woznick a resident of this County being duly sworn says that he was present and witnessed the marriage between Peter Steffey and Margret Woznick and that Peter Steffey died on the 13 th day of January 1839 leaving Margret Steffey his widow And that said Peter Steffey was a pensioner at the time of his death
Isaac J. Leffurich being sworn says that many years ago he prosecuted the claim of Peter Steffey for a pension and that it was granted and that he is acquainted with Margret Steffey and knows that she was the reputed wife of the said Peter Steffey
And the Court certify that John Woznick and Isaac Leffurich who have made the preceding statements are residents of this County and Creditable persons and that their statements are entitled to full credit
J. H. S. Mathews Clerk of the County Court of Wythe County certify that the foregoing declaration and statements of witnesses as stated above is a true and impartial copy from the records of my office.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office this 19 th day of October 1853 H. S. Mathews Clerk of Wythe County Court

I hereby certify that I have been intimate- ly acquainted with Mrs. Margaret Steffey for many years, and I know that she has always been called the widow of Peter Steffey deceased, who served as a private in the Revolution- ary war, and that she has never married. Nov. 14 th 1868.
James W. Glick

The within named James Hyrich personally appeared, and made (tatt), that the within declaration by him subscribed is true, Sworn to before me, Nov. 14 th 1868,
Jacob Wagoner V.P.

Nov 27, 1868

Increase 5.957 Brief in the Case of Margaret Steffey , Widow of Peter Steffey , a private Rev. War.  Shaw.
Bland County and State of Virginia  Rich
Act 2 d Sec Feb 3. 1853.
CLAIM FOR NEW PENSION CERTIFICATE,
PROOF EXHIBITED,
Pension roll of Richmond, Va. at $33.33 per ann. Certificate returned. Claim rec under Act of July 27. 1868. Personal identity & continued widowhood shown.
Admitted Nov. 28. 1868 to a pension at $96. per ann., to commence July 27. 1868—deducting pay since.
Name and residence of Agent.
C. M. Garnett Richmond Va.
W. E. Trask Examining Clerk.

1928 Feb. 20 heat. to Mrs. H. W. Gardner See letter in John Steffey 75.72-05. n.c.s.
Revolutionary War
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 7211
Margaret Steffey Wid
Peter Steffey Print Rev War
Act: Feb 3 d 1853
July 27 th 768
Index:—Vol. 16 Page 241
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Restoration 5957
Virginia Richmond
Margaret Steffy widow of Peter
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a Private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 33 dollars 33 cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.
Certificate of Pension issued 8 th day of October 1866
and sent to
E. M. Gannett Richmond Va
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 158 Vol. 76

APPLICATION FOR RESTORATION TO THE PENSION ROLLS WHOSE NAMES HAVE BEEN DROPPED UNDER THE ACT OF FEBRUARY 4TH, 1862.
STATE OF VIRGINIA, } ss. County of Smyth }
On this first day of Sept. 186 6 one thousand eight hundred and sixty-six, personally appeared before me James Cox a Justice of the Peace in the State and county aforesaid, and a member of the County Court, the same being a Court of Record. Margaret Steffey aged 76 years, a resident of the County of Bland in the State of Virginia, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the identical person who was a Pensioner on the roll of the Agency at Richmond Virginia and whose pension certificate is herewith returned: that she has resided since the first day of January, A. D. 1861, as follows: 'In the County of Bland - State of Virginia'
That during this period her means of subsistence has been very limited, and that she has not borne arms against the government of the United States, or has not in any manner encouraged the rebels, or manifested a sympathy with their cause: and that she was last paid her pension on the
day of A. D. 18 And she does hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint Edgar M Garmill of Richmond, Va  her attorney to prosecute this her claim, and authorize him to receive and receipt for any sum that may be allowed on the same.
Witness my mark Margaret Steffey James Wyrick Sworn and subscribed to before me this first day of Septm 186 6 I certify that the contents J.P.
Also personally appeared Polly Wyrick and James Wyrick residents of the county aforesaid, persons whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and whom being by me duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Margaret Steffey sign her name to the foregoing declaration: and they further swear, that they have every reason to believe from the appearance of the applicant and their acquaintance with her that she is the identical person she represents herself to be; and they further swear they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this first day of Septm A. D. 186 6 and I hereby certify that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim. James Cox J. P.
OATH OF ALLEGIANCE.
I, Margaret Steffey , do solemnly swear, in the presence of Almighty God, that I will henceforth faithfully support, protect, and defend, the Constitution of the United States, and the Union of the States thereunder: and that I will, in like manner, abide by and faithfully support all laws and proclamations which have been made during the existing rebellion, with reference to the emancipation of slaves, so help me God.
Witness, James Wyrick Sworn and subscribed to before me this 1st day of Sept 186 6 James Cox J. P.

N.
DECLARATION FOR INCREASE OF PENSION.
Under section 13, act of July 27, 1868.
Margaret Stoffey Widow of Peter Revolutionary War
FILED BY
E. M. Garmill atty, Richmond Va.

N. DECLARATION FOR INCREASE OF PENSION.
Under Section 13, Act of July 27, 1868.
State of Virginia } ss. COUNTY OF Bland }
ON THIS 11 th day of November , A. D. 186 8 , personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County and State aforesaid, Mrs. Margaret Steffey , aged.....years, a resident of Bland County , in the State of Virginia , who, being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the identical Margaret Steffey to whom was granted Pension certificate No. 5957 , payable at Richmond Virginia , at the rate of $33. 33 dollars per month  annum , issued under the act of February 2 nd , 185 3 ; that she makes this declaration in order to secure the increase of her pension to which she is entitled under the thirteenth section of the act of July 27, 1868.
My Post Office address is as follows: Shenandoah Virginia
And she hereby constitutes and appoints Edgar M. Furniss of Richmond Virginia  her Attorney, to present and prosecute this claim, and authorizes him to receive and receipt for any certificate that may be issued for the same, and to do any other act or thing necessary or that she might do if personally present, with full power of substitution and revocation, hereby countermanning all former authority that may have been given for the above specified purpose.
Two witnesses
Signature of Claimant: Margaret Steffey
Also personally appeared John T. Leach and William H. Sprinkle , residents of Bland Co , persons
whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to credit, and who, being by me duly sworn, say that they were present and saw Margaret Steffey  sign name (make her mark) to the foregoing declaration; and they further swear that they have every reason to believe, from the appearance of the applicant and their acquaintance with her that she is the identical person she represents her self to be; and they further state that they have no interest in the prosecution of this claim, and that she is still the widow of Peter Steffey and has not again married
Signatures of Witnesses. { John T. Leach H. Sprinkle
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 11 th day of Nov , A. D. 186 8 ; and I
hereby certify that I have no interest, direct or indirect, in the prosecution of this claim.
Signature of Judge or other Officer: Jacob Wagoner, J.P.

Clerks Office Bland County Virginia.
I A. L. Repass Clerk of said County, certify that Jacob Wagener whose name is signed to the within certificate is an acting Justice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid, that his acts are and of right should be regarded as legal and valid.
Given under my hand and Official seal This 13 th day of November 1888.
A. L. Repass Clerk.