Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 17,087, for James Mathews, New Jersey

SERVICE
NUMBER
New Jersey
Mathews, James
No. 17087
or Matthews
Mary
{ B.L. Wt 8533-100, Pkt. Issued June 16, 1789 to Thomas Boyle, assignee No papers.
CONTENTS

New Jersey Roll.
(2198)
James Mathews,
Private,
Jersey Line
In the army of the United States during the Revolutionary War.
Inscribed on the Roll of N. Jersey at the rate of 8 Dollars per month, to commence on the 7. of Apr. 1818.
Certificate of Pension issued the 8. of Aug. 1818, and sent to Mr. Gustin, Esq. Au- gusta, Super. Co. N. Jersey.
Arrearages to 4. Sept. 1818
4 mo. 28/30. $ 39.46
{ Revolutionary claims, } { Act 18th March, 1818, }
74 War.
4 Sept 1818
Dead
Paid at the Treasury under the Act of the 6. April 1838 from 4 March to 29. April 1834. Age notified 8 June 1841
See letter to Hon. M. G.
Leonard H. R. June
13. 1844. do. to C. A. Lay 19 June 1844
same July 27. 1844. do. to 3rd Oct. 4. 1845

Report
New York 4609
Mary Matthews Dorothy Matthews
who died on the 29th April 1834 New York in the State of New York He was a Private in the Comp. commanded by Captain Leonard of the Regt. commanded by Col. Dayton in the N. Jersey line for 2 years
enrolled on the Roll of New York the rate of 80 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 29th day of March 1834, when he died
Certificate of Pension issued the 7 day of Feb 1848 and sent to Q. A. Day Esq.
Arrears to the 4th of New York Semi-annual allowance ending
Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the 3rd
Recorded by Thos. Simplkin Clerk, Vol. 1 Page 122

N o . 8533. issued 16 th June 1789.
✓
Discharge of James Mathews of the New Jersey Line.
Deposited by Mr. Josiah Goldsmith 11 th Sept r 1818.
Certificate dated Oct r 17 th 1818.

State of New Jersey Sussex County -
Personally appeared affirmed before me John Gustin one of the judges of the court of common pleas in and for the said county of Sussex James Matthews of advantage in the said who being duly sworn deposeth and saith that he enlisted in the service of the United States in the month of February Seventeen Hundred and Twenty Six in the company commanded Peter Dickerson in the then S d New Jersey Regiment commanded by Col. Dayton in a Brigade commanded by General Williams Nassau for and during the war that he served in the S d company until the death of the said Captain Dickerson when Jeremiah Ballard was appointed captain under whom he served to the close of the war when he was discharged near New Windsor with the rest of the army, that his discharge has got mislaid and cannot be found & that from his reduced circumstances age he needs the assistance of his country for support -
Sworn & subscribed before me the 7 th Day April 1810 - John Gustin
James his  h Mathews mark

I John Justin one of the Judges of the court of common Pleas in and for the said County of Sussex do hereby certify that the within affidavit was taken before me at the time & place therein mentioned that I am fully satisfied that he is entitled to the provisions of the late act of Congress as a Pension for a Private in the Army of the Continental Establishment in the Revolutionary war — he being old & poor John Justin Judge
I also further certify that the S d James Mathew is so poor that he has been & is now a Pauper at the Expense of the Township of Wantage in S d County John Justin Judge
Correct

Copy of James Mathews affidavit Sussex co. N. Jersey. Wantage township.
2198
Paul M. Roschelle
Long City N.Y. Apr 1818

District of New Jersey Sussex County ss
On this thirty-first day of May in the term of May in the year of our Lord One Thousand eight Hundred and twenty personally appeared in open Court before the Judges of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas of the County of Sussex and State of New Jersey the said Court being a court of Record in the said County constituted and established by the Laws of the state of New Jersey as a court of Record having a seal with power to fine and imprison and an unlimited jurisdiction in civil cases and whose judgments are only removable by writ of error at common Law and now sitting at Newton in said County James Matthews of the age of seventy seven years resident in the Township of Wantage in the County of Sussex and state of New Jersey who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath declare that he served in the Revolutionary War as follows He enlisted and served in the Company commanded by Capt. Peter Dickinson in the third Regiment of the New Jersey Troops commanded by Colo Elias Dayton in 1780 Anno Domini One Thousand seven hundred and seventy five for the term of one year. He enlisted in the Month of March in the year following in the Company commanded by Captain Jeremiah Holland in the Second New Jersey Regiment commanded by Colo Francis Barber and was discharged at Snake Hill near Newburg in the state of New York at the close of the war. That on the seventh day of April in the year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and eighteen he applied for a pension at the rate of eight dollars per month and on the eighth day of August in the same year obtained a certificate numbered 2198 under the hand and seal of J. C. Calhoun Secretary of war of the United States payable on the 4 th of March and 4 th of September annually for the lifetime of the claimant. Complainant, and I do hereby solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18 th day of March A.D. 1818 and that I have not since that time by gift sale or in any manner

disposed of my property or any part thereof with intent there- by so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval services of the United States in the Revolutionary war passed on the 18th day of March Anno Domini 1818" And that I have not nor has any person in trust for me any property or securities contracts or debts due to me nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed, That he is a Shoemaker by trade and on account of his age being seventy seven years old and infirmity is incapable thereby to procure for himself a sufficient support He has no family neither wife nor children And he was previous to the receipt of this pension a pauper supported by the township of Mantague in said County of Sussex And this deponent considers himself in such indigent circu- -mstances as to be unable to support himself without the assistance of government except by public or private charity,
Sworn in open court and declared this 31 st day of May A.D. 1820 } James X Mathews his mark Lab A Ford
Schedule of Property
Real estate none. Personal estate none. Sworn in open court and declared this 31 st day of May A.D. 1820 } James X Mathews his mark Lab A Ford

Ephraim Green junr. Clerk of the before mentioned Court do hereby certify that the foregoing oath, and the Schedule thereto annexed, are Truly Copied from the record of the said Court —
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court on this Seventeenth day of July in the year of our Lord Eigh- teen hundred and Twenty
E. Green Junr. Clerk of the Court for the R. County of Sussex

122 S. 422. 1840 - 5018
Mary C Matthews
First Declaration -
W. Richmond
20 June 1840

City and County of New York ss. Marine Court
On this 3 d day of September 1840 personally appeared before me being of the justice of the Marine Court Mary Matthews late of Wappingers Creek Dutchess County but now of the City of New- York, who being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in open court in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of congress passed July 4 th 1836 to wit, That she is the widow of James Matthews a private soldier in the American Army of the Revolutionary war that she was eighty four years of age on the second day of July last past, that she was married to said James Matthews in the spring of the year 1774 by a clergyman named Mr Lewis who resided at Florida in Orange County in this state that said James Matthews entered the army as a volunteer at the commencement of the revolutionary war and continued in the army until after peace was concluded but she does not remember the precise date of his joining or leaving the army; that said James Matthews resided in Orange County in this state when he entered the service, that she has heard her husband speak of the Battle of Monmouth and she thinks he said that he was there, and that she has no documentary evidence to support her claim to the benefit of said act, and that she is now a widow and has not been married since the death of her said husband who died at the City of New York on the fifteenth day of April 1834.
Mary F Matthews Widow
Sworn the 3 d September 1840 before
Judah Hammond the of the justice of the Marine Court elective name court

of the City of New York have hereunto set my hand at the City of New York this day of August 1840 the words "open court" first interlined
State of New York } City and County of New York } ss.
I John Barbieri Clerk of the Marine Court of the City of New York which court is a Court of record do hereby certify that Judah Hammond who has signed the foregoing certificate is one of the justices of the Marine Court of the City of New York and that to his official acts full faith and credit are due in judicature and thereout.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Marine Court this third day of September 1840, the words "open court" first interlined and the words "Judah Hammond" and "September" first written on erasure: the words "one of the justices of the Marine Court" also interlined
John Barbieri

City and County of New York, S.S.
Mary Vanderwoote being duly sworn doth depose and say, that she is aged fifty eight years, and resides at N o 49. Orchard Street, in the City of New York, she being now a widow, that her first deceased husbands name was John Brown, and that the record annexed, is the original family record, of this deponent and her said deceased husbands, in whose hand writing said record is made, with the exception of the insertion, of the marriage of Charles Brown & Phebe Shute. And this deponent further says, that she is the identical Mary Brown, shewn by said records to have been born "January, 2 d 1785," which she believes to be a true record of her age. And this deponent further says, that she is the daughter of the late James, "and surviving" Mary Matthews, who were formerly residents, and natives, of the Town of Warwick, Orange County, New York, lately residents of the City of New York, and that her father, the said late James Matthews, was at the time of his death, a pensioner of the United States. And this deponent further says, that her aforesaid father, and mother, had seven children, this deponent being their third child, all of which, with the exception of brother who was next older than this deponent, who died in her infancy, is still living, "or was a short time since." And this deponent further says, her eldest sister, Rachel, the eldest child of her said father and mother, is, as she has always understood about nine years older than this deponent, or thereabouts, that she now resides in the State of Michigan. And this deponent further says, that her said sister Rachel was older when she was married, than this deponent was when she was married, to her first husband, viz about seventeen years old, that the said Rachel was married, to Mathew Sawyer in the John Street Church in this City of New York, some four or five years before, this deponent was married to her first husband, the late John Brown.

And this deponent further says, that her Mother the said Mary Mathews, still continues the widow of the said James Mathews, deponent's father, Sworn and subscribed before me, this 7 th day of August 1843.
Edward W. Bishop Commissioner of Deeds
her Mary Mark Vanderwoort mark
I certify, that it is satisfactorily shown, that the person making the foregoing deposition, is a person of known respectability and is, I believe, fully entitled to belief.
Edward W. Bishop
Deed
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
I, NATHANIEL JARVIS, CLERK of the City and County of New-York, and also Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for said City and County, being a Court of record, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That Edward W. Bishop before whom the annexed deposition was taken, was, at the time of taking the same, a Commissioner of Deeds in and for said City and County, duly commissioned and sworn, and authorized by the laws of this State to take the same; and that I believe the Signature of said Commissioner thereunto subscribed is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court and County, the 8 th day of August 1843.
Nathl Jarvis Clerk.

And this deponent further says that her Mother the said Mary Mathews, still continues the widow of the said James Mathews, deponants father, Sworn and subscribed before me,
this 7 th day of August 1843.
Edward W. Bishop Commissioner of Deeds
Mary her  mark Vandervoort mark
I certify, that it is satisfactorily shewn, that the person making the foregoing deposition, is a person of known respectability and is, I believe, fully entitled to belief.
Edward W. Bishop Commissioner of Deeds

FAMILY RECORD.
BIRTHS.
John Brown, born the third of May 1780
William Lockwood Brown.
Born May 13 th 1809
Charles Terrett Brown Born April 12 th 1812
BIRTHS.
Mary Brown born the January 2 nd 1785

FAMILY RECORD.
MARRIAGES.
MARRIAGES.
John Brown & Mary Matthews Married January 9 th 1802
Charles T. Brown & Phoebe Spate Married October the 3 rd 1826
[Faint, mirrored bleed-through text from the reverse side of the page]

8
Mary Vanderwoort 7 August 1873.

Let. C. A. Lay, Jan y 13. 48. Do. Jan y 20/48

Let to C. A. Day July 12 '45 do. to same Sept. 10. 1845 } do. to same Oct. 22 o 1845
n o 5018
Mary Matthews, widow of James Mat. theus. act 1836 } 4 July } (103) She resides in N York. Her husband is said to have been a N. Jersey man. (103) See his papers act 1818 Penline. See letter to Sec. War 15 Sept 1840 do. to C. A. Day 23 Sept. 43- Oct. 7. 43 - April 20. 1844 - April 30. '44 - June 13. 1844 to Hon. M. C. Leland H. R do. to C. A. Day June 19. 1844 do to C. A. Day July 2 1844

5018
Mary Matthews N. York.
Act 4 th July 1836.
Lettn to M. Hoyt, Septem 26. 1846.
To C. A. Lay, Nov. 18, 1846.

James Matthews N.J. act 1818- To whom were the arrears after his death in '34 p. 2
G. B. J.
Mary Matthews
Died 29 Apr. 1834. prior to his death to Geo. W. Post atty for Widow, care of S. D. Knapp former Pen. Agt. New York City A. B. J.

See numerous correspon- -dence within
Let. to C. S. Day Esq March 31. '47 do. Secy of War 22 June '47 Let. to C. S. Day Esq. 8th '47

The Certificate of the Court states that he died in the City of New York on the 29 th day of April 1834, and that he left a Widow then Surviving, whose name is Mary Matthews —
3 o Auditor's Office.

Please send over the per- son papers of James Matthews for reference in Mary Matthews case He was a pensioner in the New Jersey roll.
A. Campbell Chief Clerk

Rev
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 17087
Mary Matthews Widow of James Matthews Private Rev War
Act: July 4, 1836
Index:—Vol. M , Page 8
[Arrangement of 1870.]
[Handwritten checkmark]

Nov 11, 1896
Adams, son
Thos. Matthews
H. L. Edwards Esq d Comm. of Pensions.
Present

Washington Nov. 11. 1846
Sir,
Enclosed is additional evidence in the case of Mary Mathews, of New York, widow of James Mathews, together with a Power of Attorney to me. The enclosed evidence is relied on to establish the credibility of William and James Sawyer, whose testimony which is already on file is relied on to afford the evidence required by your letter of July 12 th 1845.
By reference to your letter to me of Oct r 7. 1843 and mine to which that is an answer, it will be seen that the Dept t admits that the objections as to the proof of the date of the marriage was removed by the evidence submitted by me referred to in yours of 23 rd Sept r 1843. I suppose the remark contained in yours of the 10 th Sept r 1845. was made without reference to the letters above referred to.
Very respectfully Your most Obedient Servt C. A. Lay
D L Edwards Esq present,

Pension Office
June 22. 1847
Commissaire of Pensions
Report in the case of Mrs Mary Matthews.
I consider the evidence sufficient to prove that the claimant is the widow of James Mat- thews, the pensioner, and that they were mar- ried prior to the expi- ration of his last term of service. Her claim is admitted.
4 Nov 48. W. L. Marcy

Pension Office, June 22nd, 1847.
Sir,
I have the honor to return you Mr. Lay's letter, of appeal in the case of Mary Matthews and to make the following report.
In September, 1840, she made in the Marine Court of the City of New York, a declaration claiming a pension under Act of 14th July, 1836, for the services of James Matthews in the New Jersey Line, without professing to have any knowledge of his Officers, or of the date of his entering and leaving the Army, altho' she was married to him in 1794. No reference whatever was made to the fact that he was a pensioner in his life time, and, consequently, that his narrative and proof of service would supply all that was required upon that subject.
In October, 1843, she made a supplemental declaration, and entered into more details of the service claimed, giving the names of the Captain and Colonel and stating that he was a resident of the City of New York when he died and was a pensioner. The information respecting the Officers under whom James Matthews served, could have

been obtained at Trenton, and the only pensioner of her husband's name was on the New Jersey roll under Act of 1818, who had sworn, in direct terms, in 1820 that he had "neither wife or children". In the same Regiment there is a James Matthews who deserted in 1778, rejoined in 1779, and omitted in 1780.
From 1843 to the present time her claim has been urged as the widow of that pensioner who had sworn that he had no wife. The proof of her being his widow has been deemed insufficient.
In July 1845 an argumentative letter marked A. was received from Mr. Lay, which was answered on the 12 th (a copy herewith enclosed) acknowledging the plausibility of his argument, but reiterated the call for further proof of her being the widow of our late pensioner. In answer to this call, the testimony of the two lawyers, Grand children of claimant, and Cartman in the City of New York was filed, and their credibility certified by gentlemen for whose standing Mr. Lay referred to your certificate.
The testimony of these Members of the family

however credible, should be received with a due allowance, for being ex parte, and drawn up in the handwriting of the Agent.)
The papers marked A, and from One to eight inclusive are enclosed.
I have the honor to be, Very respectfully, Your Hon. Servt. J. L. Edwards
Hon. W. L. Marcy, Secretary of War.

New York Feb. 23 1848
Sir
I herewith enclose you the required statement called for by your letter to me of the 20 th ult o in the Case of Mary Mathews. It is taken as you will see before a Com te of Deeds as we have no Inst ce of the Poor in this City; the Com te of Deeds being authorized by law to act in their stead.
You would confer a favor by adjusting this claim with as little delay as possible as it has been pending for a number of years and the only fact to be shewn now is that she is living which you will see at a glance, and if much delay is had in the adjustment she will not derive any benefit from it, & I really hope you will permit this to occupy your early attention.
I am very respectfully Your Most Obed t Serv t W. A. Lay S. J.
Geo W Camp Esquire Act g Commissioner of Pensions

TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
Second Comptroller's Office,
June 1 st , 1841.
Sir :
Under the act of the 6th of April, 1838, entitled "An act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury of the United States," The widow of James Mathews, a Pensioner on the Roll of the New Jersey Agency, at the rate of Eight Dollars and Cents  month per annum , under the law of the 18 th March 1818, has been paid at this Department, from the 4 th of March, to the 29 th April 1841.
Respectfully yours,
William L. Patten
Comptroller.
To the Commissioner of Pensions,
Present.

A-
July 7-1845
Rev. Matthias
J. L. Edwards Esq Committee of Pensions.
Washington D.C.

New York 2 July 3 d 1845.
Dr. Sir,
I regret much to be under the necessity of troubling you with any further communication in relation to the case of Mary Matthews widow of James Matthews, but inasmuch as neither of the two grades of proof which you was pleased to suggest to me as being probably sufficient to overcome the difficulty in her case, caused by her husband's assertion in his declaration under the act of 1 st of May 1820, "that he then had no family," can be found after the most diligent search, leads me, to address you again on the subject.
You inform me that Mr. Matthews, in 1820, declared he then had no family, neither wife nor child. Now Mr. Deo Sir I am fully of the opinion, that the author of that declaration, intended to convey the meaning required by the rules, that he then had no family residing with him, neither wife, nor child, that was dependent on him for support which his own declaration will show was the case, and I suppose her declaration set forth the fact which is well known that they was not living together, in 1820, nor afterwards.
It is a hard matter for her, who to a moral certainty in my opinion, from a full investigation of the matter has a claim of the most valid character. — She is just such a claimant as Congress had in view when they passed the act of 4 th July 1836. Her husband enlisted for the war and left her with an infant, and joined the Army, not leaving her the least thing to subsist her self and child upon, which compelled her to put the child

in the custody of her relatives and to go out to service, and she was finally compelled to go to the Camp with him who she remained until the second child died, when she went to service until the close of the war, when her Country sent her home, "instead of the kind and affectionate husband that he was when he entered," a poor, miserable, drunken, vagabond , to cloath and support which she did until he roamed away to parts unknown, when he made the statement , upon which you reject his claim, I was first of the opinion that he might have been somewhat intoxicated when he took the oath, and did not understand it, but I am inclined to the same opinion of yours, that no judge would administer an oath to a man in such a condition, and he is represented to have been a credible person when sober. Hence I come to the conclusion that the author of his declaration, if he had the regulations, which points out the necessity for him to state the names , and number of his family residing with him , only intended to furnish an answer to the rules, and should ought to be so understood, if the declaration shows that the author of it had the regulations . For example, suppose Nathan had stated, he then had a family, and had stated the names , and number of, as required by the rules, and such declaration have shown that the author of it, had the regulations , and there had been the same omissions in it, as there is, in his, of the fact of whether such family did, or did not, reside with him, would not the Department have been fully warranted in supposing that it was intended to be understood that

they were residing with him. If so I see no good reason, why the Department may not be warranted in the same inform in this case, the other way.
The question now submitted for the decision in this case, is this, Is the Dept. warranted, in this case, under all the circumstances, in coming to the conclusion that Mathews, "or the author" of his declaration, intended to be understood, that he then had no family residing with him, neither wife or child. If upon a review of the case you should come to that decision, then there is no discrepancy between his, and his statement, and it will then remain for you to determine whether the marriage is made out. I do hope the matter may be carefully weighed, and justice done to the truly worthy and claimant.
With great respect by the I remain, Your most obedient humble servant B. A. Lay
J. L. Edwards, Esq. Commissioner of Pensions.

New York, Nov 8/47
C. A. Lacy.
Asks attention to his appeal in the case of Mrs Mary Matthews. —
L. 142. See Nov 9/47,

New York Nov 8. 1847.
Sir.
I would most respectfully call your attention to my letter of appeal in the case of Mrs. Mary Mathews widow of James for a pension under the act of Congress of July 4 th 1836, which I had the honor to address to you a number of months ago. My reason for calling your attention to it at this time is that I suppose in the course of the mass of your more important duties this case may have been laid aside and overlooked as the Commissioner of Pensions informs me that he reported the case to you a number of months ago, and that the case is still waiting your action. The question involved in the appeal is a very simple one, — it is simply whether the Department has the right without any reason whatever to refuse to adhere to its former decision on the case, when it is stated that it was made after a careful consideration, and more particularly so when the decision is in strict conformity with the established rules of the Department in all similar cases .
If however you should come to the conclusion that you could not decide this appeal in favor of the claimant and you will see the necessity of our knowing it, in order that she may have the opportunity of laying her case before Congress at the commencement of the coming session, for its action — to secure which it must be ready when Congress meets. The prejudice which has apparently grown up against this case in the Pension Office since the

12th of July 1845 on which day the decision was made by which we contend the Department should be bound but renders the prospect of a favorable decision from that quarter entirely out of the question. I however feel confident that if you can find time to carefully consider this case you will come to the conclusion that it is a just and honest claim, as it most assuredly is,
with great respect
I have the honor to be
Your Most obedt Servant,
C. B. A. Lay
Hon W. L. Marcy
Secretary of War
Washington
D.C.

G. A. Lay. New York Jan 11. 47.
This Pension case to be examined soon as practicable
— W. L. Me.
Hon. D. C. Knapp House of Reps.

Williamsburgh, L. I.
December 11. 1847.
Dr Sir,
I regret that I have not the pleasure of a personal acquaintance with you, but being assured by your friends in Williamsburgh that you are always both ready and willing to attend to the wants of your constituents I therefore take the liberty to introduce myself, and business, to you. I have been for a number of years endeavoring to obtain a pension for Mrs Mary Matthews, of New York, widow of James Matthews who was a pensioner. The case has been one of great difficulty but I do not regard it as necessary for me to go over the whole grounds in this case. In May 1845, I made an argument in the case and submitted it to the Com d of Pensions wherein I brought up for consideration all the various and numerous grounds upon which the case had been objected to, and suggested the reasons why they were not well taken. I referred particularly to the ground upon which I assumed that the date of the marriage was admitted to be satisfactorily proven. In reply I rec d . the following letter.
Pension Office July 12th. 1845.
Sir, — I have carefully considered your suggestions in the case of Mary Matthews. And however plausible they are admitted to be I am constrained to require further proof of her identity as the widow of our late pensioner.
I am &c.
J. L. Edwards
6th Dec r 47. —

In conformity with the foregoing decision I submitted the affidavits of W m and James Sawyer, two respectable citizens of St. York who was the Grand Children of the claimants. To this testimony the Com d demurred on the ground that as they were Grand Children it might be supposed that they had some interest. I then obtained the Affidavits of Samuel A Dodge late President of the 7th Ward Banks and James B Whiting Esq r late District Attorney of New York, who stated in their affidavits "that they were well acquainted with the said W m and James Sawyer, and that they were honest and industrious men and were fully entitled to credit" This proof I presented at the Pension Office myself in person. The Chief Clerk took the case up, and made a decision against it, but he was not aware of the decision on the case as I have before furnished a copy and when I shewed it to him he then said he did not know either of the witnesses. (Dodge or Whiting) So I called on Gov. Miley the Secy of War, and he very kindly at my request made an endorsement on the papers to the effect, that he was personally acquainted with the witnesses and that they were gentlemen of the highest standing, which he signed in his official capacity as Secretary of War . When I returned the papers so endorsed to the Chief Clerk he refused to have anything further to do with the case — said the case had but lately come into his hands and that he knew nothing about the decision I have herein copied. I then called on the Commissioner and he refused peremptorily to examine the case at all unless I would consent to waive the decision, as is copied above. He said he could not recognize it — but for what reason he did not say. As I could not do any better I consented that for the

purpose of that examination it might be waived. He then examined the case when I was present, and laid the case aside for further time to make his decision. A few days after he informed me that he could not allow it. After my return I took an appeal from the decision of the Com p . "refusing to recognize his own decision of the 12th of July 1845, in this case or to give a reason why he did refuse to do so, to the secretary of War. That was last Spring, and the Com t . says that he the Secretary of War has not yet made a decision on the appeal. I have addressed two letters to him urging him to make a decision, but as his duties have been enormous I suppose he has not found time to do so. If that decision stands there is no ground left upon which to object, and that decision was he says Carefully made or made after a careful examination" and that decision was in conformity with the established usages of the P o Office in all similar cases . This old claimant is still living and is now 94 years of age and is most desperately poor, will certainly become a public charge unless her claim is allowed. It is in consequence of her extreme poverty that I take the liberty to ask your assistance, but what it is best to do I don't rightly know. I think if it would not be to much trouble it would be best for you to speak to the Sec y of War on the subject, and if he cannot decide favorable which I think he would be fully warranted in doing, he might suggest something for the best if he could not do anything for her, then I suppose we should have to submit it to Congress. In order to do so I suppose it would only be necessary for you to make a motion that her papers and copies of the correspondence be transmitted to Congress, and when they should come you could have them referred to the committee on Revolutionary Pensions, and you could hand the Com t this letter. If

it should be laid before Congress I wish you would let me know when it is referred to the committee and I will come down in order that I may explain some parts of the case as the papers is very voluminous, and the Comrs might not be able to understand them rightly. If you should think of any other mode of proceeding which you think would be more likely to secure justice to this truly worthy old claimant I should feel obliged to you if you would adopt it in preference to anything that I have suggested.
I have the honor to be Very respectfully Your most obedt Servt.
C. A. Lay
C. A. Lay New York Dec 11. 47. This Pension case to be of advantage as soon as practicable W. L. H. Co.
Hon A C Murphy House of Reps.

(Copy)
Pension Office, July 12th, 1845.
Sir,
I have carefully considered your suggestions in the case of Mary Matthieu, and however plausible they are admitted to be, I am constrained to require further proof of her identity as the widow of our late pensioner.
I am, Very respectfully
Your Obt. Servt
(Signed) J. L. Edwards.
C. A. Lay, Esqr., New York.

J. L. Edwards Esq. Committee of Pensions.

New York August, 8. 1843-
Sir,
Herewith enclosed is additional proof in the case of Mrs. Mary Mathews, widow of James Mathews, a decd. pensioner. The claimant says she was married before the war, and the enclosed proof, is the highest grade of evidence that exists to establish the alleged date of the marriage - as the records of the Clergyman by whom they were married, and by whom their eldest children were christened, is lost or destroyed. The claimant alleges that her late husband, was for some time a non Commissioned Officer, if so the Department will of course adjust her claim accordingly.
I am respectfully Your obed Servt G. A. Lay
L. B. Edwards Esq- Commrs of Pensions Washington D. C. -

New York October 5. 1843—
Sir.
Enclosed is the additional, supplemental statement of Mary Matthews, widow of James Matthews, made by her, in order to more fully comply with the rules - No 4 - and 13 - as it appears by your letter to the Socy. of Wms, in her case - under date of Sept r 15. 1840 - that she had not made, the statements in her declarations required by these rules. As the proof, as to the date of the marriage, heretofore presented, is insufficient, then she relies on the Ration Roll of his Reg t "if such a roll exists," and her later husbands Schedules, under the Act of May 1 - 1820 - to afford additional proof thereof. The proof by me forwarded, and referred to in yours of 23 d ult o to me, was presented to show that the relationships of husband and wife existed, in the War.
I am very respectfully Your Obed t Servant C. A. Lay
J. J. Edwards Esq } Commrs of Pensions. }

Sir - I am requested to ask an early investigation of the papers of Mary Matthews for a pension. The enclosed letter I am informed will explain upon what grounds this request is made.
I am truly Sir
Thos. H. B. 1844 March 1844
Washington Mar 18-1844 Col. J. L. Randall Esq. Comm. of Pensions

May 22 nd 44
to Genl
May
McKinstry
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.
7th

New York May 20. 1844.
Sir.
In relation to the application of Mrs. Mary Matthews (widow) of James Matthews for a pension under the Act of July 4-1836, referred to in your letter to me of 20 th and 30 th ultimo, I have to say that the best proof that can be found to substantiate her claim has been presented. You say in your letter to me of the 30 th ult. that I have overlooked the correspondence, in the case, if I supposed the difficulties, consisted in the form of the declaration, and that the service for which she claims for is not set forth, nor proved, and that there is no satisfactory evidence of the acts of the marriage. In reply I beg leave respectfully to state, that the service for which she claims is set forth in her supplemental declaration statement enclosed to you in my letter of 5 th October last, and the papers upon which her husband was pensioned is relied upon to afford satisfactory proof of service in her case. The evidence of the date of the marriage I transmitted to you in my letter of 5 th of August last, when I supposed that to be the only difficulty in the case. That proof carried back the relationship of husband and wife to August 1780. In reply to that proof you say it did not overcome the difficulties in the case, as I would see by reference to your report in the case to the Secretary of War of 15 Sept 1840 - "a copy of which you furnished me" and by reference to which I at once see that the proof did not overcome the difficulties, for the reason as I understood it, that there had been no service theretofore nor proof not coming enough for you to identify the husband as a pensioner, and so of course if the proof as to the marriage was

satisfactory to you to establish the relationship of husband and wife in August 1780 - you could not have then decided whether or not it was satisfactory evidence of the marriage, for the husband might have received a pension for services under the Act of 1818, that he performed some years - be for that time, in which case as I understood it such proof would be insufficient but if the pension upon which he was pensioned showed he was in service until the close of the War, I supposed it would be deemed sufficient. - I was moreover induced to believe that the proof of the relationship of husband and wife, was proved to your satisfaction, to have existed, at the time it is shown that it did, from what you say in your letter to me of 7 th October last, wherein you state that none of the objections relating to her declaration as to marriage and proof of service have been removed. Now I supposed from your omitting to inculcate the marriage in the remarks that you was not able to determine whether the proof of the date of the marriage was, or was not sufficient, but that you deemed it sufficient to show that the marriage took place before the close of the war otherwise you would have said, that none of the objections had been removed. You assert that her husband's name cannot be found on the pension "Rolls," and that he certainly never drew a pension in the State of New York, I think the persons that examined the Roll of the New York City Agency must certainly have overlooked his name, for I have it from so many people that knew him, that he received his pension at this agency for two or three years before his death that there cannot be a doubt of the truth of the statement. It may be proper to say that the balance of his pension does not

appear to have been paid until, 1840 - "About six years after his death," when his pension certificate was surrendered - and is now I suppose in the 3 d Auditor's Office of the Treasury Dept - The failure of yours being able to find him on the pensions Rolls may be, to attributed the error of yours in the spelling of his name. His name was James Mathews , not Malthews as you call him - It is undoubtedly known to you that the Government by removing the Book from the Ag- cy here wholly deprives us of the means to show by record proof the fact of his having drawn a pension here as alleged by witnesses - His claim as it appears has been pending for a number of years - and as the recent delay in its adjudication, is as I am now convinced attributable to the Dept - in a great measure, and as the testimony is clear - it is respectfully desired that you will reexamine the whole case, and if you deem the proof insufficient to warrant your allowing the claim then to point out, and assign the reasons why the proof is insufficient, in order that she may be able to state her case understanding to Congress, for its action, which I hope she will not have occasion to do, for I know you are ever ready to adjust all satisfactory claims - and as far as I am able to judge, after having made the fullest inquiry of persons of the highest respectability, both here, and in their native Vil- lage it is my opinion that a more valid claim under the act of July 1836 - was never presented at the Department.
I am with great respect
Your Most Obedient Servant
(B. A. Lay)
J. L. Edwards Esquire Commissioner of Pensions }

Oct 22 d 45
Mary Matthews No. 36
J. L. Edwards, Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Yrs Washington D.C.

New York October 20 th 1845.
Sir
I have received your letter of the 10 th ulto. acknowledging the receipt of of the additional evidence enclosed in mine to you of the 24 th of July last, in the case of Mary Mathews widow of James, per act of the 4 th of July 1836. I have now most respectfully to ask that such proof may be examined and filed with her other papers agreeable to the established usages of your Office and an answer communicated as to whether such proof affords the further evidence, in the case as was required by your letter to me of 12 th of July last.
I am very respectfully Your most Obedt Servt. A. A. Lay
J. L. Edwards Esq d Commissioner of Pensions

Sept. 12. 1846
Form of attorney M rs Matthews
James P. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C.

New-York Sept. 10 th . 1846
Sir,
I herewith enclose to you a power of attorney from Mrs. Mary Mathews a Claimant for a pension, and would respectfully request an early answer on her behalf - and if her claim has been asserted; as she presumes it has, you will please advise us of the act under which it was asserted, and the situation in which it now is: whether there is a deficiency of proof of marriage or service or both & what further may be requisite to sustain her claim, and thus oblige your very humble humble Servt.
Micah Hoyt.
James L. Edwards Esqr. Commissioner of Pensions Pension Department Washington D. C.

April 25 1844
Mr. A. T.
J. Edward Esquire Compt. of Pensions Washington D.C.

New York April 23 d 1844.
Sir,
I have received your letter to me of the 20 th inst in the case of Mary Matthews, by which I am informed that her supplemental declaration, enclosed in mine of the 5 th of Oct last, unattested by satisfactory proof of the allegation contained in it . It is true that her supplemental declaration, was unattested by any proof whatever, for the reason that the proof had been previously by me transmitted, but in consequence of the claimant not complying with the rules, in her declaration the proof (as I understood it) was unavailing until she had complied, which she did in her statement above referred to, and as it appears that she did not have the benefit of any of her proof in the late examination she respectfully desires that her case may be again examined together with all her papers on file. The claimant has on file in your Office, such proof as has been considered satisfactory in similar cases heretofore.
I am very respectfully Your obed Servt. C. A. Layman
H. V. Edwards Esquire. Comm r of Pensions

Sept 30, 1843
My.
J. J. L. Edwards Esq. Commiss r of Pensions.
Washington
J. A. R. D. C. -

New York Sep 28 1843-
Sir,
Your favor of 23 rd inst. in the case of Mrs Mary Mathews and other papers therewith enclosed, has been duly received. In your report to the Secy of War under date of 15 th Sep 1840 in this case, you say, that it could not be found by the Pension Rolls in your office, that claimants late husband ever drew a pension. Now claimants late husband James Mathews, drew a pension, in the State of Pennsylvania of $96. dollars per annum, until about the year 1832, when he moved to this city, and whether he got transferred to this agency is very doubtful, as he did not live but a short time after he moved here. Mrs Vanderoot, testified I believe that Mathews, was a pensioner on the Rolls of this city - she was led to say so, from the circumstance that she knew that the balance of pension that was due her father, at the time of his death was paid by the agents here, but upon inquiry I find that he must have draw such pay from the Department. The claimant desires that you will inform me whether or not her late husband's papers can be found, and if they can, if it will be necessary for her to make a further statement, or not.
J. J. Edwards Esq e Comm ee of Pensions
I am very respectfully Your Ob st Servt C. A. Gay

1 Pur. allm.
June 24 1844
Cum
May Mathews N.Y. July 4 36
J. T. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington & C.

New York June 21 st 1844.
Sir,
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19 th inst in relation to the case of Mrs Mary Matthews. You was pleased to inform me that it would be necessary to shew by satisfactory proof that her husband was not entitled to credit on his oath, which cannot be done, as it is stated to me by numerous persons that was well acquainted with him, that when he was not under the influence of Signor, "which was rarely the case for the last 35, or forty years of his life" he was to be believed on his oath. Such being the case it would not warrant her in going to the expense of taking further proof that would add nothing to the proof already on file. From all the facts connected with this case that has come to my knowledge, and I have made the fullest enquiry, both here and in their native town, and have received, my information from persons of the most undoubted character, I believe a more valid claim under the act of July 4 th 1836, was never presented. Intemperance is the cause of all the difficulties, from first to last. He was she says intoxicated when he enlisted, and left her with an infant child without any means of support, and had to put it out, and go out to service himself to obtain a livelihood, when he came home on a furlough, and she had another child, and not being able to support it, and herself she had to go to the Army with him, where she staid until that child died, And it was his intemperance that caused

him to neglect to provide for his family and finally to abandon them, and that was most undoubtedly the cause of his having stated that he had neither wife nor child, which now deprives her of the benefit of the law that Congress had assigned for the relief of persons that had a less meritorious claim than she has. Satisfied that it cannot be shown that his statement that he had neither wife nor child, in 1820, is attributable to his want of veracity, for the reason that, that does not appear to be the cause consequently the grade of proof which you was pleased to inform me might probably be awaiting cannot be produced, certainly not through my agency as I am fully satisfied that such was not the cause, but that it is attributable to intemperance and there is not the remotest probability that we could prove that he was in liquor at the time he made that particular statement, but it can be shown that he was almost continually under the influence of liquor, at that period. If by showing that, and you was satisfied with the explanation, then comes the fact of the proof as to the date of the marriage. I inferred from your letter to me of 7 th October last that the proof as to the date of the marriage which I transmitted to you in August last, would be sufficient if when the service was proven it should be made to appear that he was in service after 1780, that being the time we showed that the relationship of husband and wife existed between them, but in your letter to me of 30 th of April last you say there is no satisfactory proof of the date of the marriage, consequently if the date of the marriage is not proven sufficiently to show that it took place before he left the service, then, it will avail her nothing by furnishing a satisfactory explanation of his statement

that he had no wife in 1820. I have made the most diligent search for proof to sustain the date of the marriage, and that furnished by me in August last is the best proof that I could find, and I am well satisfied, that no further proof can be adduced, that will afford anything further on that point.
You will confer a great favor if you will now review the proof enclosed in my letter to you of the 5 th August last, and inform me, (as the service for which she claims is now perused) whether it is sufficient to show that the marriage took place before her husband left the service, and also if by showing his habitual habits of intemperance, previous, and in the year 1820, and until the day of his death and also that she has always since her marriage to him, been known to have been his wife, will be considered a satisfactory explanation of his statement that he had no wife in 1820.
I have the honor to Very respectfully Sir Your Most Obedient Servt (W A Gay)
J. S. Edwards Esquire Commissioner of Pensions

Sir
Washington City Nov. 21. st 1846
We herewith enclose a letter from C. A. Saye Esq. appointing us his Agents to attend to his cases before the Pension Office. We will in a short time take up the cases specifically named in Mr Saye's letter, for examination.
Be pleased to recognize us in Mr Saye's cases.
Very Respectfully Yours of the Secy.
J. L. & A. H. Smith
J. L. Edwards Esq. Comm er Pensioner.

4
Hannah Clarke.
3 rd August 1853.

State of New York } County of Orange } Town of Warwick }
ss. Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for the Town, County, and State aforesaid. Hannah Clarke is resident of said Town, aged 85 years, who being duly sworn, deposes and says that during the Revolutionary war, she was well acquainted with James and Mary Mathews, who then resided near neighbors, to her in said Town of Warwick; that she does not know when they were married, but she has a distinct and positive recollection that the relationship of husband and wife existed between them for some years before she this deponent was married, to her late husband, James Clarke, which she says took place in the month of August, seventeen hundred and eighty and that, at the time of her marriage, as above stated in 1780, she has a distinct and positive recollection that the said James and Mary Mathews had one, or two children, and that after the war they had four or five more, and that they moved away to New York a great many years ago. She further says that she has received a pension from the Government.
And this deponent further says that she always understood that the said James Mathews

was a Revolutionary Soldier, and to the best of his knowledge, information, and belief, he served during the whole entire period of the war.
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 3 rd day of August 1843 — John Sly Justice of the peace
her Hannah J Clark Mark
STATE OF NEW YORK, } SS. 1, LEBBEUS L. VAIL, Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, in and for the County ORANGE COUNTY, } of Orange, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That John Sly before whom the foregoing Affidavit was subscribed and sworn, was at the time of taking the same, a Justice of the Peace in, and for said county : and further, that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice and verily believe that the signature to the said Affidavit & Certificate is genuine.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my Hand and affixed the Seal of the said County, the fourth day of August 184 3 .
Lebbeus L. Vail Clerk B. H. Vail Dept. Clerk in the absence of the Clerk

was a Revolutionary Soldier, and to the best of his knowledge, information, and belief, he served during the whole entire period of the war.
Sworn to and subscribed, before me this 13 th day of August 1843 — John H. Justice of the peace
her Hannah X Clark Mark
I certify that I am well acquainted with the person making the foregoing deposition. She is a woman of known respectability and is yet capable of being a witness. And I believe that to her statements aforesaid full faith and credit may and should be given.
John H. Justice of the peace

By His Excellency GEORGE WASHINGTON Esq; General and Commander in Chief of the Forces of the United States of America.
THESE are to CERTIFY that the bearer hereof the Jerusalem  Volunteer Regiment, having faithfully served the United States for Seven Years and being enlisted for the War only, is hereby DISCHARGED from the American Army.
GIVEN at HEAD-QUARTERS the
day of  1788 Land warrant N o 8533 issued 16 th June 1789 - in the name of Mary Bogle assigned of James Mathew for 100 acres
By His Excellency
Command,
Brigadier General
REGISTERED in the Books
of Volunteer Regiment,
James Mathew Adjutant
THE above James Mathew Jersey Battalion has been honored with the BADGE OF MERIT for Seven Years faithful Service.
Wm Moulton  Lieut

HEAD-QUARTERS, June 1783.
THE within CERTIFICATE shall not avail the Bearer as a Discharge, until the Ratification of the definitive Treaty of Peace; previous to which Time, and until Proclamation thereof shall be made. He is to be considered as being
Furloughed
GEORGE WASHINGTON
This is to certify that James Mathis has in his possession a Discharge to Samuel Mathis for the Eight Days of March 1783. Given under my hand this 10th day of June 1783 in camp at Newburgh.
John Schuyler Samuel H. Smith
James Mathis
James Mathis New Jersey, M. 1787 B.L. Wt 2533-100, issued 1789

Jan'y 26 48
Miss's Care of Mrs Matthews
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commis r of Pensions Washington D.C.

New York
Jan 24, 1848
Sir
I herewith return you the letter you ad- dressed to me as I have nothing to do with any claim of Sarah Matthews. Nor do I know anything about the existence of such a claim. I thought it was in the case of Mary Matthews, which has been so long pen- ding a decision before the Secretary of War. Not knowing until the present time discovered the difference in the names.
I would be obliged to you if you would inform me as to whether the Secretary of War has made a decision in the case of Mrs Mary Matthews, widow of James Matthews
I am very respectfully Your obed Servt C. A. Lay
J. L. Edwards Esq. Comm r of Pensions

Hon. Wm L Marcy Secretary of War.
Washington D.C.

New York, May 28/47
C. A. Lay.
Appeals on pecuniary claim of Mrs. Mary Matthews.
Ld. Secy May 28/47
Finan Offic
✓

New York May 26. 1847.
Sir,
I would most respectfully call your attention to the unjust and inconsistent course pursued by the Commissioner of Pensions, in the case of Mrs. Mary Mathews, widow of Samuel Mathews. This is the case in which you done me the favor, which I was in Washington last fall to certify as to the credibility of the witnesses who had given the further proof required by the Commis n of Pensions, in his letter to me of 5th July 1845. Your indorsement on the papers under the circumstances was virtually an admission of the case for the reason that if they were satisfactorily shown to be credible persons, then their testimony must be received and if received in evidence the case must be admitted, as they furnished all the additional evidence required as the "Commis n " said after a careful review of the case. After I returned with the papers bearing your indorsement, neither the Chief Clerk nor the Commissioner would make any further action in the case. The Chief Clerk refused to entertain it at all, and the Commissioner said the same thing unless I would consent to waive the decision of the 5th July 1845, a decision which he had for two years insisted on as indispensable necessary to be complied with, and when they had fully done so, he would not recognize, or be bound by, nor would he assign any reason for his unprecedented decision thus made. I consented that the decision might be waived if he would review the case, "and for that purpose only" which he did and decided against it, and so the case stands, at present. The Commissioner still refuses to be bound by his decision in the case of July 1845, which refuses to appears to be the decision made in all similar cases. From his decision, "Not to be bound by his former decisions of July 1845, without assigning any reasons" this claimant appeals to you.
I am very respectfully Your Most Obedient Servt C. C. Gay
Hon. Wm. L. Marcy Secretary of War.

April 13. 1897.
Rev. Dr.
Matthews.
J. G. Edwards Esq r Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

5078
May Mathews NY
Act 4 July '36-
with Mr. H. & was in some way concerned it is

New York April 10 1847.
Sir,
I have received your letter of 30 th ult o in the case of Mrs. Mary Mathews, widow of James Mathews, reiterating the old objections which you said was feasibly explained in your letter of the 5 th July 1845, and all the evidence submitted since the date of that letter has been submitted to meet the requisitions of the further proof therein required to be furnished. By reference to my letter of Nov r last enclosing a high grade of additional proof I informed the Office that it was furnished in conformity with the requisition contained in your letter of the 5 th July 1845, and by reference to your letter of the 18 th of Nov r last, (being a decision of the Chief Clerk in which you will please to recollect you informed me that you concurred, it is not it is true admitted to be sufficient, but inasmuch as it is not objected to me - think we are justified in assuming that it is sufficient. It may be proper for me to say that when the Chief Clerk drafted the letter of the 18 th Nov r (or after he had drafted it) I called his attention to that part of his report, which neither directly admits the sufficiency of the proof to meet the requisitions of the letter of the 5 th of July 1845, and he said that he did admit it, and that that was the proper construction to be placed upon it. He made that remark after the Secretary of War had himself satisfied as to the Credibility of the witnesses, and under such circumstances I respectfully submit it to you to say if I was not warranted in assuming that the sufficiency of the proof was admitted by the Department. If other objections had existed you would have stated them in your letter of 5 th July 1845. This claim is asserted as the papers will show for the services of James Mathews not (Matthews) who was a private and a war man in Col Dayton's Regiment of the New Jersey Line, and a pensioner per act of 1818, and died in the City of New York in the year 1834, where he had resided some years before his death, and the means is only within the reach of the Department of determining whether he was or was not the Pensioner, of the same name who at one time resided in Sussex County New Jersey as the vouchers in the 3 d Auditor's Office upon which his pension was paid will of course show that fact.
I am very respectfully Your most obedt Servt A. G. Day
A. S. Edwards Esq r Commrs r of Pensions

July 27 44
Convers. of Friends
Canby left Mary Matthews — Date exp Kim J. M. S. Schiedale
Return to Prop.
Washington D.C.
7
July 27 1844

New York July 25 1844
Sir,
In the case of Mary Mathews, who is asserting a claim for a pension as the widow of James Mathews, it is respectfully desired, if the production of a high grade of proof showing that this identical Mary Mathews was well known to have been the wife of James Mathews, in and previous, to 1820, and to the day of his death, will not overcome the difficulties in which her case is involved by the statement of her husband in that year, that he had no family, which can be furnished, then it is respectfully desired that you will furnish me with a copy of the said statement, of her husband, "or that part of it," which relates to his family, as is contained in his schedule made by him in 1820, in order that she may proceed understandingly to furnish a satisfactory explanation of how he came to make such a statement, with a view to obtain her pension by special act of Congress.
I am very respectfully
Your Most Servt,
C. A. Lay
J. S. Edwards Esqr Committee of Pensions }

June 19/1844
NY Mary MacMaster
Hon. J. I. Edwards Commr. of Pensions Washington, D. C.
[Large decorative flourish or signature]

New York June 17, 1844
Dear Sir,
I have the honor to inform you that the Hon. Moses G. Leonard has transmitted to me your letter to him of the 13 th inst. in the case of Mary Matthews, by which we understand that her claim has been rejected on the ground that her husband swore in 1820 that he had neither wife nor children. It is certainly very strange that Matthews should have made such a declaration, for he was at that same time living with one of his children. It is also true that Matthews wife and children was in every sense of the word, "but its legal sense," dead to him, for he had separated himself from them some years before, and an intemperate and roving about the country and at that period "1820" it is represented that he had neither real or personal property, of any description whatever, but he then had a lawful wife and several children, two of which is now living, as is also his widow, which fact can be proven by any number of credible witnesses, and under such circumstances it is respectfully desired, that you will suggest the most advisable course to be pursued, as the regulation points out no course of action in such a case.
I am very respectfully Your obed Servt C. A. Gay
Hon. J. S. Edwards Commr s of Pensions

Mar 4. 1897
Rev. Conrad Macy Matthews
Washington of Harvard Washington 190
Rev. H. B. Church Esq.

New York Jan'y 2 nd 1847.
Sir
The authority given by me to J. S. P. A. Shod Smith, Esquire of Washington to act as my Agent, in the matter of the application of Mary Matthews widow of James Matthews, and Polly Nestor widow of John Nestor, for a pension under the act of Congress of 4 th July 1836, and for the settlement of the Pension of Bridget Demanest widow of Gilliam Demanest whose case for pension was favorably acted upon when I was lately in the office, is hereby revoked, and it is respectfully desired that the action of the Department on the above mentioned cases may be reported to the undersigned.
Very respectfully
Yours Most obedt Servt
A. A. Gay
A. L. Edwards Esquire
Commissioner of Pensions

S. 422 3/4 18 1/2
14 September 1840 MWB
Indian office.
Report Oct 1840
His Excellency
Martin Van Buren President of
answ d Nov. 17 Sept 1840

New York the 10th of September 1840
Sir
I lately made an application to the Commissioners of pensions for a pension for Mary Matthews and founded the claim on the within affidavits; the claim was rejected and sent back on the ground that the declaration of the widow was not made before a Court of record (having been made before a Surrogate) and that it was necessary for the widow to prove the actual solemnization of the marriage by living witnesses; or to produce record evidence of it — we have obviated the first objection by having the declaration made before a Court of record but the second we find it impossible to obviate, as there is no person living who was present at the marriage, and there is no record of it at the place where the marriage took place or church . The Church was burned during the revolution and if there ever was any records of the marriage it was lost or destroyed as none can now be found. — I consider the decision of the Commissioners of pensions as wrong and therefore appeal from their decision to you. — If the evidence then offered were produced in a Court of Justice it would be sufficient to establish the wife's right of dower or right to share distributions of the personal estate of her husband — general reputation you know is good proof in cases of marriage or relationship but in this case we do not rely on general reputation only but certain facts are proved which conclusively show that there must have been a marriage — Marriage is a civil contract the same as a contract for any other purpose — If a man acknowledges that he owes another a debt it is conclusive evidence that he had at one time contracted the debt — And so if a man acknowledges a woman to be his wife it is conclusive evidence that he at some previous time had married her — This principle has often been decided in Courts of Law
Rev. Peter D. V. L.

In the case in question it is proved that the said James Matthews always acknowledged the said Mary to be his wife and always lived with her and treated her as his wife and that they were always treated and considered as husband and wife by all who knew them - This evidence I think should be considered sufficient it is the best which the nature of the case affords the rule adopted by the Commissioners of Pensions would deprive this woman of the benefit of the law intended for her and others in her situation. She is very old and poor and is much in want of the pension provided for her by law - For further proof of her husband's services we refer you to the proof filed when a pension was granted to said James Matthews which he enjoyed for several years before his death.
With respect your obed servt
Walter Skidmore 13 Chambers St N York
His Excellency Abd. Van Buren President of the U. S.

Jan 11. 1817
Recd of Mary Matthews
Wm Lloyd
So the and
Washington D.C.

New York January 9. 1847.
Sir,
Your letter of Nov. 18. 1846. admits that the objections in the case of Mary Mathews widow of James Mathews designed to be removed by the affidavits of William & James Sawyer, was overcome. No other inference can be put on your letter. It is also admitted that the high grade of evidence in support of the date of the Marriage was not objected to when it was under examination, four years ago, nor has it since been objected to. when the Dept. knew the proof of such an event was so fast passing away. In the correspondence heretofore it will be seen that the objections as to narrative and proof of service is admitted to be all removed. It is manifestly certain that when this case was last examined these important facts was in the hurry of business overlooked. A reexamination is therefore respectfully asked on that ground as we cannot see nor understand on what points to furnish further proof.
Very respectfully
Your Most obedt Servt
C. C. Gay
To L. Edwards Esq. Commr of Pensions

Aug 26, 1845.
Adela Tercan Mary Matthews
Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

New York July 24. 1845.
Sir
Agreeable to the requisition contained in your letter to me of 12 th Inst. in the case of Mary Mathews, widow of James, per act of July 4. 1836. I have the honor to herewith enclose to you the Affidavits of James C and William Sawyer, which is relied on to afford the further proof required.
I have the honor to be Very respectfully, Sir Your Most obed t humble serv t (C A Lay)
J. L. Edwards Esq. Comm r of Pensions }

March 15/47
Recd of May Matthews
J. Edwards Esq. Minister of Justice Washington D.C.

New York March 12 th 1847. Sir,
Not having received an answer to my letter to you of December in relation to the case of Mrs. Mary Matthews, widow of James Matthews, I would again most respectfully call your attention to her case. Every objection that has been raised has been met by a high grade of proof, the sufficiency of which has not been objected to, but to the contrary it has been admitted, and we are wholly at a loss to know on what points to adduce further proof, even if it could be found. The proof of the period of the marriage is not objected to, and her relationship to her late husband, James Matthews, himself a Pensioner is sustained by the testimony of gentlemen whose character is vouched for by gentlemen known, as the Secretary of War certifies to him personally, and the Chief Clerk decided that the proof on that point was sufficient. This case now presents this aspect, viz. All the proof required by the rules and by the requisitions of the Department has been furnished, and to which no objection has been raised, and the case has not yet been passed, I know the Department is not aware of it, but such is the case, and the Department if it will go through all the voluminous correspondence, it will find that I am correct. As no further evidence can be produced in this case even if it was required it is respectfully desired that a careful review of all the exhibits may be made and a final decision made in the case.
Very respectfully Your obed Servt E. G. Lacy C. G. P.
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commiss y of Pensions—

26 Papers
Acum 3 47 A copy of a letter to H. H. H. H. Merry Merry
L. Edwards Esquire Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C.

New York December 1 st 1847.
Sir,
As the Hon. the Secretary of War has not yet (nor is it probable that he will) decide the appeal in the case of Mrs. Mary Matthews before the commencement of the approaching session of Congress, before which body she desires to submit her claim, I would therefore feel obliged to you if you would cause to be made a copy of my letter to you, to which yours of the 13 th of 1845 is an answer, and send it to me in order that the matter involved in them letters may be understand- ingly laid before the Committee
I am very respectfully Your Most obedt Servt G. W. Lay
J. L. Edwards Esquire Commissioner of Pensions,

Verifications
Credibility of the Sample
8

A Samuel N Dodge of the City of New York, Do Certify. That William and James Sawyer, two brothers by occupation Cartmen residing in the City of New York, who I am informed testified in the case of Mary Matthews, widow of James
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
I, James Conner, CLERK of the City and County of New-York, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That David M. Cowdrey whose name is subscribed to the Certificate of the proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument and thereon written, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, a Commissioner of Deeds for said City and County, dwelling in the said City, commissioned and sworn, and duly authorized to take the same. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Commissioner, and verily believe that the signa- ture to the said certificate of proof or acknowledgment is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County, the 3 day of Nov 1846
James Conner Clerk.
to me, and have and in a city. on oath. Dodge the subscriber, personally law to the above cu- stodians one of said with William
and James Sawyer of the City of New York (cartmen for several years - I believe them both to be men of good moral character, sober and industrious - I would unhesitatingly believe either of them under oath. New York November 2 nd 1846 -
I am well acquainted with J. R. Whiting A. R. Whiting late the Dist. Atty of the City of NY and have the entire confidence in his integrity. R. D. Lillie State of New York
City and County of New York, 3 rd G. Be it known That on
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
I, James Conner, CLERK of the City and County of New-York, DO HEREBY CERTIFY That Pearsn H. Jeremiah whose name is subscribed to the Certificate of the proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument and thereon written, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, a Commissioner of Deeds for said City and County, dwelling in the said City, commissioned and sworn, and duly authorized to take the same. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Commissioner, and verily believe that the signa- ture to the said certificate of proof or acknowledgment is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County, the 3 day of Nov 1846
James Conner Clerk.
personally Whiting, Lillie and of law to subscribed, - Jeremiah Deed

A Samuel N Dodge of the City of New York. Do Certify. That William and James Sawyer, two brothers, by occupation cartmen residing in the City of New York, who I am informed testified in the Case of Mary Matthews, widow of James Matthews for a pension, is personally known to me, and have been for a number of years, as men of integrity and veracity, and I believe them fully entitled to credit on oath. City and County of New York ss. S. N. Dodge
Be it known, That on the 3 rd day of November 1846, before the subscriber, personally appeared Samuel N Dodge, and made oath in due form of law to the above cer- tificate to which his name is subscribed. O. M. Brownsey Commissioner of Oaths.
I certify that I have been acquainted with William and James Sawyer of the City of New York (cartmen) for several years. I believe them both to be men of good moral character, sober and industrious - I would unhesitatingly believe either of them under oath. New York November 2 nd 1846 -
I am well acquainted with S. N. Whitins S. N. Whitins late the dist-Atty of the City of NY & was one of the attorneys conferred in his integrity. R. D. Sillman State of New York
City and County of New York, ss. Be it known That on the second day of November 1846, before the subscriber, personally appeared Samuel N Dodge James D. Whitins, to to me personally known, and made oath in due form of law to the certificates to which his name is above subscribed. -
Leary 16 Jeremiah Clerk of Leeds

I certify that James R Whiting Esq. who has made the preceding affidavit before me lately held the office of District Attorney of the city & County of New York and is entitled to full faith and credit in his right. Pearson H. Firemich (Com. of Deeds)
I certify that Samuel N. Dodge the deponent named in the first of the within written Depositions and who made on the Verdict before me this day is one of our most respected Citizens - a few years since he was President of the Seventh Ward Bank in this City and is entitled to full faith and credit. Dated at the City of New York this 3 rd day of November 1860.
C. M. Bowdrey Commissioner of Deeds
I am acquainted with J. R. Whiting Esq. He is a gentleman of high character, and his statements are entitled
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY & COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
I, James Conner, CLERK of the City and County of New-York and also Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for said City and County, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That
A true and correct copy of the within affidavit of James R. Whiting Esq. the attorney of the City of New York and the within Court as to the City of New York and the said James R. Whiting Esq. is a true and correct copy of the original now on file in my office.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said Court and County, the _____ day of _____ 1846
James Conner Clerk.
spare the Super of the N York

I certify that James R Whiting Esq. who has made the preceding affidavit before me lately held the office of District Attorney of the city & County of New York and is entitled to full faith and credit in his said Pearson H. Firemich (Com. of Sed)
I certify that Samuel N. Dodge the deponent named in the first of the within written Affidavits and who made oath thereto before me this day is one of our most respected Citizens - a few years since he was President of the Seventh Ward Bank in this City and is entitled to full faith and credit. Given at the City of New York this 3 rd day of November 1860.
J. M. Bowdrey Commissioner of Courts
I am acquainted with J. R. Whiting Esq. He is a gentleman of high character, and his statements and ac- counts are entitled to entire credit 4 th Nov r 1860. A. Vanderpool
Judge of the Superior Court of the City & N. York

City and County of New York S.S.
Chauncy Hall being duly sworn says that the William and James Sawyer referred to in the preceding certificate made by Jas. R. Whiting Esq. and Samuel A. Dodge are the identical persons who made affidavits in the case of Mary Mathews, for a pension.
C. H. Gay
Sworn to before me this
3 rd day of November 1846
J. Brown Mrey Commissioner of Peds.

Dutchess County State of New York p.
I Mary Vandervoort at present residing at Wappingers Creek in Dutchess County being duly sworn depose and say that I was well acquainted with James Matthews who was a soldier in the American army during the Revolutionary war and who was subsequently a pensioner of the United States that I knew him from my first recollections until the time of his death which occurred in fifth Street in the City of New York on the fifteenth day of April 1834 And I further depose and say that I have been acquainted with Mary Matthews the wife of said James Matthews from my first recollection to the present time, that she is now living at Wappingers Creek in Dutchess County and is about eighty four years of age, And I further depose and say that I am at present fifty four years of age and have known the said Mary Matthews for the last fifty three years constantly and that I knew said James Matthews from the time I was one year old until the time of his death.
That said James Matthews and Mary Matthews lived together as man and wife and had several children. That deponent has known all the acquaintances and associates of the said James Matthews and Mary Matthews and that said James and Mary were always reputed among their acquaintances to be husband and wife they at all times acknowledging each other as such and were always called and considered such by all who knew them, And I further depose and say

from all my acquaintance with the said James and Mary I verily believe and have not the least possible doubt but that the said James and Mary were lawfully married and continued to be so until the death of said James. And that I have never heard the contrary intimated from any person whatever.
Mary her Vandervort mark
State of New York, Dutchess County ss
I John R. Meyer a Commissioner of Deeds for said County and authorized by the laws of this state to administer oaths do hereby certify that Mary Vandervort with whom I am personally acquainted has this day sworn
Mary Vandervort 19 Oct 1839
STATE OF NEW-YORK, County of Dutchess,
ss.
I, DANIEL W. BRADLE, Clerk of the county of Dutchess,
Do hereby Certify, That John R. Meyer Esquire before whom the annexed affidavit purports to have been sworn, and
whose name is subscribed to the certificate of the attestation of the same, was on the day when the same was taken a Commissioner of Deeds
in and for the County aforesaid, dwelling in the said County, duly appointed and qualified and authorized by the Laws of the said State of New York to take affidavits to be read in evidence of record, the acknowledgment & proof of Deeds &c
AND FURTHER, That I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Commissioner and verily believe that the signature to the said Certificate is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County, the 26th day of October A. D. 1839
Danl W. Bradle Clerk

from all my acquaintance with the said James and Mary I verily believe and have not the least possible doubt but that the said James and Mary were lawfully married and continued to be so until the death of said James. And that I have never heard the contrary intimated from any person whatever.
Mary her Vandewort mark
State of New York Dutchess County ss
I John R Myer a Commissioner of Deeds for said County and authorized by the laws of this state to administer oaths do hereby certify that Mary Vandewort with whom I am personally acquainted has this day sworn to the preceding affidavit before me and that she is a woman of good character and her evidence is worthy of credit as I verily believe
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand the 19th of Oct. 1839 the words "her evidence is" you intend -
John R Myer Commissioner of Deeds

Dutchess County N.Y.
I Mary Vanvoorn of Wappingers Creek being duly sworn do depose and say that I was well acquainted with James Matthews a soldier of the Revolutionary army and with Mary Matthews his wife. saw James Matthews in New York in April 1834 being then eighty seven years of age according to his representation; I am acquainted with the children of said James & Mary Matthews. They had three boys and three girls; the oldest child of said James and Mary Matthews was Rachel now the wife of Matthew Snoyer of Livingston County in the State of Michigan that said Mary was Rachel is at least four or five years older than I am and I was fifty four years
Jan'y 1839 54 1785
STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss. I, DANIEL W. BEADLE, Clerk of the county of Duchess, County of Duchess, }
Do hereby Certify, That John A. Myers Esq. is  the  person  whose  name  is  subscribed  to  the  affixed  Certificate  of  a  Deposition , was  on  the  day  of  the  date  thereof  a  Commissioner  of  Pleadings  in  and  for  the  County  aforesaid , dwelling  in  the  said  County , duly  Commissioned  and  Sworn  and  duly  authorized  to  take  the  Said
AND FURTHER, That I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Commissioner and verily believe that the signature to the said Certificate of a deposition is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County, the day of December A. D. 18 79
Sam H. Brade Clerk

Dutchess County p.
I Mary Vandevort of Hapsburgs Creek being duly sworn do depose and say that I was well acquainted with James Matthews a soldier of the Revolutionary army and with Mary Matthews his wife. saw James Matthews and a New York in April 1834 being then eighty seven years of age according to his representation; I am acquainted with the children of said James & Mary Matthews. They had three boys and three girls; the oldest child of said James and Mary Matthews was Rachel now the wife of Matthew Sawyer of Livingston County in the State of Michigan that said Mary was Rachel is at least four or five years older than I am and I was fifty four years of age on the second day of January last. Note. The words "Mary was" first written on erasure or struck out
Mary X Vandevort Mark
Dutchess County p. I John R. Myer a Commissioner of Dues for Dutchess County do hereby certify that Mary Vandevort has sworn to the foregoing affidavit before me according to law. And I further certify that I am acquainted with said Mary Vandevort and that she is a woman of good character and veracity and that her testimony is entitled to credit In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 19 th day of Octob November 1839.
John R. Myer
Commissioner of Dues

Edward H. Hinton John Roy -
5

State of New York.
Orange County, John Roy of Warwick in said county being only known before the undersigned justice of the peace of Goshen in said County Testified that James Mathews worked for him two seasons after the Revolutionary war at different times that he built a house for Mathews that he James Mathews and Mary his wife lived in the said house together that they had six children three sons and three dau- ghters died not see them married but has under- stood that they were married at Florida in the said town of Warwick by a Minister that is now dead has never heard any thing said nor understood any thing to the contrary but has al- ways believed and understood that they were Lawfully married and that they lived together as man and wife.
Subscribed and Sworn the 3 d day of September 1838 before me
John Roy
James H. Bullock justice of the peace

State of Vermont
Warrick County, p David Stevens of Warrick in said County personally appeared before James H. Wallock one of the justices of the peace of the town of Goshen in said County , and being in him duly sworn did depose and say that he was well acquainted with James Mathews and Mary his wife and that they lived together as man and wife a number of years eight or ten years before during the revolutionary War that this depo- nent and said Mathews was in the army near Havre de Grace that said Mathews was a very laborious man that sometimes worked at the forge and this deponent always understood that they were diligent and has never heard anything to the contrary. Subscribed and sworn to David Stevens the 3rd day of September 1838 before me
J. H. Wallock Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that David Stevens and John Roy are old and respectable inhabitants of the said town of Warrick that I have been intimately acquainted with them for more than twenty years and believe them to be men of truth and veracity and judging from the manner in which they testified by making their affidavits I am well satisfied that they recited clearly what they have sworn to.
J. H. Wallock Justice of the Peace

State of New York
Orange County ss. I, Albert J. Brinton Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Orange Do Hereby Certify that James J. Hallock before whom the fore- going affidavits of John Roy and David Stephens were subscribed and sworn, was at the time of taking the same a Justice of the peace in and for said County And further that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice and verily believe that the signature to the said affidavits, and to the Certificate following the last mentioned affidavit and herein written is genuine - In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said County the 15 th day of September 1838
A. J. Brinton Clerk -
David Stephens John Roy

Oct. 30. 1839
47 7/8
N.Y.
July 4. 1836
Mary Matthews
The Commissioner of the
Customs office Washington

New York Dec 28th 1835
Sir
My husband James Matthews died in this City on the 15th of April 1834 he was a pensioner of the United States at the time of his death - I was married to him previous to the revolutionary war and have not married since his death For proof of his services in the revolutionary army I refer you to the proof that was furnished on his obtaining his pension from the United States - I wish you to grant me the pension allowed by law to widows of revolutionary soldiers
Mary his Matthews X Mann
Direct your answer to this to me in the care of W. Shidmore Surrogates office New York

2 nd
No 5018
Mary Matthews
N.Y.
act 4 July 36.
allowed by Secy. Second Declaration 2 yrs free
$80. from 29 th 1834 when her hus- band died .
C. C. Hay New York
Act 4 th July 1836.

State of New York. City and County of New York } ss- Be it known, That before me, the undersigned a Commissioner of Deeds, in and for the State and County aforesaid, personally appeared Mary Mathews, a resident of the aforesaid State and County, aged eighty seven years, who, being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following, Supplemental, declaration, in order to more fully comply with the requirements of the rules, to carry into effect, the Act of Congress, of the 4th of July 1836, "the benefit of which law, she having heretofore, made a declaration, claiming, "That she is the widow of James Mathews, who was a private," and she believes now Com- missioned officer," during the whole period of the Revo- lutionary War, in one of the Regiments of the New Jersey line, under Col. Dayton, and Captain Leonards, and Lieutenant James. That he was an enlisted soldier for the war, and served between six and seven years-to the close of the war, and received his Bounty lands. That she was at the Camp, with him at Morristown, for near one year, while he, with his Regiment laid at that place, and that he was at that time under the above mentioned officers. that while she was there she drew her regular rations from his Regt. That she was his wife, at the time he enlisted, "she having been married to him about two years-before," and that she had by her said husband, in all, seven children, viz- one, before the war, one in the war, and five since the war-the two youngest being twins. That she, and her said husband were living at the time he enlisted and entered the service, in the Township of Warwick, in the County of Orange, in the State of New York, of which place they were natives. That her second child, died in the Revolutionary war- while she was in camp with her said husband, and that the eldest one is still living, "or was a short time since" That her said husband the aforesaid James Mathews, was at the time of his death, "which she

declares took place in the City of New York, on the 29th day of April 1834, a pensioner of the United States, at the rate of $96. per annum, and that he had received a Pension for many years before his death. That she has no additional proof either of her marriage or the service, but she relies on the proof that she has her-
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
Mathews
I, NATHANIEL JARVIS, Clerk of the City and County of New-York, and also Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for said City and County, being a Court of record, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That John R. Planagan before whom the annexed deposition was taken, was, at the time of taking the same, a Commissioner of Deeds in and for said City and County, duly commissioned and sworn, and authorized by the laws of this State to take the same; and that I believe the Signature of said Commissioner thereunto subscribed is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court and County, the 1 st day of October 1843
Nat Jarvis
Clerk.

deceased took place in the City of New York, on the 29th day of April 1834, a pensioner of the United States, at the rate of $96. per annum, and that he had re- ceived a Pension for many years before his death. That she has no additional proof either of her marriage or the service, but she relies on the proof that she has here- tofore adduced, to establish her claim.
Sworn to and subscribed on this 7 th day of October, A D 1843 before me — Ruler of the Court of which Statement is hereunto satisfied
J. R. Skirving
(Commissioner of Deeds)
Mary her Mathews marks

State of New York } On this ninth day City & County of } of September 1846 New York ss. } personally appeared before me John W. Edmonds Circuit Judge.
Mrs. Mary Mathews a resident of the State City and County aforesaid. Who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on oath depose & say. She is now a claimant for a pension in virtue of the services of James Mathews her husband deceased which were rendered in the Revolutionary War. And she further saith that she made a declaration through the agency of Mr. Pay some two or three years ago for the pension of asserting her claim for a pension but has been unable to obtain any report from the same since and not knowing whether the claim was ever asserted before the Pension Department, She does now by these presents revoke the power of Attorney given or that may have been invested in the said Pay in virtue of his aiding in preparing her said Claim, and does hereby substitute and appoint Micah Hoyt Esq. of said City as her lawful Attorney and Agent to investigate her Claim and reassert the same. Should he find she has a legal right thereto. And she does hereby respectfully request the department to report to her said Attorney hereby empowered to attend to her business revoking all former powers that might have been given to the said Pay

or any other person. She further saith she is now 83 years of age, and was married to James Matthews prior to the Revolutionary War, and that her said husband was a pensioner at the time of his decease and she further saith not
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
Matthews
I, James Conner, CLERK of the City and County of New-York, and also CLERK of the Court of
Common Pleas, for the said City and County, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That No W Edmonds before whom the annexed deposition was taken, was, at the time of taking the same, Circuit Judge in and for said City and County, duly commissioned and sworn, and authorized by the laws of this State to take the same; and that I believe the Signature of said Dubse thereunto subscribed is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said Court and County, the 9th day of Sept. 1846
James Conner
Clerk.

or any other person. She further saith she is now 83 years of age, and was married to James Matthews prior to the Revolutionary War, and that her said husband was a pensioner at the time of his decease and she further saith not
Sworn to and subscribed on the day & year first mentioned above written.
for Mary X Matthews mark
J. C. Amos Circuit Judge

Know all Men by these Presents, That I Mary, Matthews widow of James Matthews, deceased, do hereby constitute and appoint Chauncy A. Lay my true and lawful attorney, for me and in my name place, and stead to prosecute my claim for a pension, from the Government of the United States and to do all things lawful and necessary to be done in the premises as fully to all intents and purposes as I might do if personally present.
Witness my hand and seal this 24th day of October 1840.
Witness
Knockegernan
R. S. Gailor
State of New York
Mary her Matthews mark
City and County of New York } ss.
Be it Known That on the 24th day of October 1840 before me the undersigned a Commissioner of Deeds in and for the County of (small known to me by the oath of Robert L. Smith of the said City) appeared Mary Matthews above named, and acknowledged the foregoing power of Attorney to be her act and deed In testimony whereof Witness my hand the day and year last above written.
Knockegernan
Commr. of Deeds
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
I, James Conner, Clerk of the City and County of New-York, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That Knockegernan whose name is subscribed to the Certificate of the proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument, and thereon written, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, a Commissioner of Deeds for said City and County, dwelling in the said City, commissioned and sworn, and duly authorized to take the same. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Commissioner, and verily believe that the signature to the said certificate of proof or acknowledgment is genuine
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County, the 4 day of Nov 6 1840
James Conner
Clerk.

She was an child of Rachel, eldest daughter of Mary James Matthews.
James died at Rachel's home
Mary lived on the her daughter to Mary Vandervoort.

State of New York
City and County of New York } ss.
James Sawyer being duly sworn says, that he is aged about 43 years, and resides at No 133, Norfolk Street, in the City of New York, and is by occupation a Carman, and that there is residing with him in the same house, his Grand Mother, Mary Matthews, who is asserting a claim for a Pension, on account of the Revolutionary Service of her late husband, who was this deponent's Grand father, whose name was James Matthews, who this deponent knew to be a pensioner of the United States, and who died in Fifth Street in the City of New York at this deponent's Mother's house, about ten or eleven years ago. That his said Grand Father and Grand Mother, during the latter periods of his Grand father's life resided in the City of New York, but did not live together, they being so old and infirm as to take care of each other, so the said James Matthews resided with this deponent's Mother, and the said Mary Matthews resided with his aunt Mary with whom she continues to reside. And this deponent further says, that his Grand father and Grand Mother, the aforesaid James and Mary Matthews, has not lived together within the period of his recollection, but they always regarded each other as husband and wife, and always acknowledged this deponent's Mother and his aunt Mary to be their Children, and this deponent always knew, regarded, and called them his Grand father and Grand Mother, and that he is as well satisfied that they were lawful husband and wife as tho' they had lived together until his death, and the fact that such relationship did exist between them is a matter that is well known, throughout the different branches of their
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
I, James Conner, CLERK of the City and County of New-York,
That Orandall Rich before whom the annexed deposition was taken, was, at the time of taking the same, an Alderman Judge of Court in and for said City and County, duly commissioned and sworn, and authorized by the laws of this State to take the same; and that I believe the Signature of said Alderman thereunto subscribed is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County, the 24. day of July 1845
James Conner Clerk.
to be doubted or questioned ever was doubted, and as the widow of the married since his death. re S S Sawyer

State of New York
City and County of New York } ss.
James S. Sawyer being duly sworn says, that he is aged about 43 years, and resides at No 133, Norfolk Street, in the City of New York, and is by occupation a Carman, and that there is residing with him in the same house, his Grand Mother, Mary Matthews, who is asserting a claim for a Pension, on account of the Revolutionary Service of her late husband, who was this deponent's Grand father, whose name was James Matthews, who this deponent knew to be a pensioner of the United States, and who died in Fifth Street in the City of New York at this deponent's Mother's house, about ten or eleven years ago. That his said Grand Father and Grand Mother, during the latter periods of his Grand Father's life resided in the City of New York, but did not live together, they being so old and infirm as to take care of each other, so the said James Matthews resided with this deponent's Mother, and the said Mary Matthews resided with his aunt Mary with whom she continues to reside. And this deponent further says, that his Grand father and Grand Mother, the aforesaid James and Mary Matthews, has not lived together within the period of his recollection, but they always regarded each other as husband and wife, and always acknowledged this deponent's Mother and his aunt Mary to be their Children, and this deponent always knew, regarded, and called them his Grand father and Grand Mother, and that he is as well satisfied that they were lawful husband and wife as tho they had lived together until his death, and the fact that such relationship did exist between them is a matter that is well known, throughout the different branches of their family, and that he never had that fact doubted or questioned during his lifetime, nor does he believe it ever was doubted, and that the said Mary Matthews is now known as the widow of the said James Matthews, she having remained unmarried since his death.
Sworn to and subscribed this } 24th day of July 1845 before me }
James S. Sawyer
Brandell Vick
Alld 17th Ward

I certify that James Sawyer making the foregoing affidavit is known to me, and that I believe him entitled to credit,
Brandell Nich Ald 17 th Ward

State of New York City and County of New York } ss.
William Sawyer, being duly sworn, says, that he is aged about 41 years and resides at No 25 Lewis Street in the City of New York, and is by occupation a farmer, that he is well acquainted with Mary Mathews, who resides in Norfolk Street in the same house with his brother James, that he has always known her as his Grandmother, and that he was well acquainted with James Mathews, who was a pensioner, and died at his Mother's house, in Fifth Street in the City of New York, with whom he resided about ten or eleven years ago, and that he always understood that the said James Mathews, was his Grand father, the husband of the above mentioned Mary Mathews, altho they did not live together within his recollections, but it was a matter well understood that they were husband and wife and that they always acknowledged his Mother and his aunt Mary, as their Children and they always knew and regarded them as their father, and Mother, and no doubt was ever known to exist to the contrary, and that the said Mary Mathews is known to this deponent as the widow of the said James Mathews, on whose account he understands she is claiming a pension, that he has since his earliest recollections of them, known, them called, and regarded them as his Grandfather and Grandmother.
Sworn to and subscribed this 24th day of July 1845, before me } William Sawyer Orandall Rich Ald 14th Ward
I, James Conner, CLERK of the City and County of New-York,
That Orandall Rich before whom the annexed deposition was taken, was, at the time of taking the same, An Alderman of County Court in and for said City and County, duly commissioned and sworn, and authorized by the laws of this State to take the same; and that I believe the Signature of said Alderman thereto subscribed is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County, the 24 day of July, 1845
James Conner
Clerk.
the above affidavit led to credit, Orandall Rich Ald 14th Ward

State of New York City and County of New York } ss.
William Sawyer being duly sworn, says, that he is aged about 41 years and resides at No 25 Lewis Street in the City of New York, and is by occupation a farmer, that he is well acquainted with Mary Mathews, who resides in Norfolk Street in the same house with his brother James, that he has always known her as his Grandmother, and that he was well acquainted with James Mathews, who was a pensioner, and died at his Mother's house in Fifth Street in the City of New York, with whom he resided about ten or eleven years ago, and that he always understood that the said James Mathews was his Grand father, the husband of the above mentioned Mary Mathews, altho they did not live together within his recollection, but it was a matter well understood that they were husband and wife and that they always acknowledged his Mother and his aunt Mary, as their Children and they always knew and regarded them as their father, and and Mother, and no doubt was ever known to exist to the contrary, and that the said Mary Mathews is known to this deponent as the widow of the said James Mathews, and whose account he understands she is claiming a pension, that he has since his earliest recollections of them, known, them called, and regarded them as his Grand father and Grand Mother.
Sworn to and subscribed this 24th day of July 1845, before me } William Sawyer Orandell Rich Ald 14th Ward
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
I, James Conner, CLERK of the City and County of New-York,
That Orandell Rich deposition was taken, was, at the time of taking the same, An Alderman Judge of County Court in and for said City and County, duly commissioned and sworn, and authorized by the laws of this State to take the same; and that I believe the Signature of said Alderman thereunto subscribed is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said County, the 24th day of July, 1845
James Conner
Clerk.
to above affidavit led to credit, Orandell Rich Ald 14th Ward

State of New York City and County of New York } ss.
William Sawyer being duly sworn, says, that he is aged about 41 years and resides at No 25 Lewis Street in the City of New York, and is by occupation a farmer, that he is well acquainted with Mary Mathews, who resides in Norfolk Street in the same house with his brother James, that he has always known her as his Grandmother, and that he was well acquainted with James Mathews, who was a pensioner, and died at his Mother's house, in Fifth Street in the City of New York, with whom he resided about ten or eleven years ago, and that he always understood that the said James Mathews, was his Grand father, the husband of the above mentioned Mary Mathews, altho they did not live together within his recollection, but it was a matter well understood that they were husband and wife and that they always acknowledged his Mother and his aunt Mary, as their Children and they always knew and regarded them as their father, and Mother, and no doubt was ever known to exist to the contrary, and that the said Mary Mathews is known to this deponent as the widow of the said James Mathews, and whose account he understands she is claiming a pension, that he has since his earliest recollections of them, known, them called, and regarded them as his Grand father and Grand Mother.
Sworn to and subscribed this } William Sawyer 24 th day of July 1845, before me } Brandell Rich Ald 14 th Ward
I Certify that William Sawyer making the above affidavit is known to me, and I believe him entitled to credit,
Brandell Rich Ald 14 th Ward

State of New York
City and County of New York } ss.
Mary Matthews of the City and County of New York aforesaid being duly sworn say that she is the widow of James Matthews, deceased who was a soldier, and a "Wars Man" in the New Jersey Line during the Revolutionary War, and a pensioner at the rate of $96 per annum on the Roll of the New Jersey Agency under the Act of Congress of 18th March 1818, as will more fully appear by reference to the proofs that she has submitted in support of her Claim for a pension. And further that she now resides in the City, County, and State of New York.
Subscribed and sworn to this 1 st day of February 1848 before me Deacon H. Jeremiah (own hand)
Mary Matthews mark
STATE OF NEW YORK, CITY AND COUNTY OF NEW YORK, } ss.
I, James Conner, CLERK of the City and County of New York, and also Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for said City and County, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That Deacon H. Jeremiah before whom the annexed deposition was taken, was, at the time of taking the same, a Commissioned in and for the said City and County, duly commissioned and sworn, and that I believe the Signature of said Commissioned thereto subscribed is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said Court and County, the 2 nd day of Feb y 1848
James Conner Clerk.