Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 28898, for James Stedman, Connecticut

SERVICE
NUMBER
born
Stedman James
S 28898
CONTENTS
carded

31.462  New York
James Hedman
Heretofore in the State of New York
a Captain in the Regiment commanded
for the commanded
for Captain 10 Mos & 18 days $212.00
Granted on the Roll of New York at the rate of 212 Dollars each per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1834.
That a Pension of the 10 th day of July 1834 and put to Special Pension Mapus. St. C. New York
to the 4th of March '34 $636.00 For-ants. allowance ending Sept 4. 34 104.00 $742.00
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by Viral Clerk, B & E Vol. 4 Page 124
Let no L Fleming
19 Sept 1834 do to J. Agat do to P. Agt & Ha. S. Wright. Aug. 3. 1837 - do to G. Moore, 19 Aug. 1837 - do. to V.S. Benton, Aug. 20. 1837 - do to same Sept. 1. 1837 do to same Sept. 9. 1837 do to same May 7. 1838. do to P. Agt & Geo. Moore Nov. 7. 1838 do to same agt Nov. 21 1838. Letter to N.S. Benton & 3 Aud. for aft 29 1844. Dead.

No 21831 James Stedman New York
Retd Care N York e
Admitted Captain 10 mo + 18 days $212.00
Thomas Stedman Maggie Stedman N.Y.
Stedman, James Com. 537898

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
May 27 1837
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew what is necessary to be done. These points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: { ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.
A Statement, shewing the Service of James Stedman Clinton County N.Y.
   Period when the service was rendered. Duration of the claimant's service. Rank of the claimant. Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served. Names and Rank of the General and Field officers. Battles in which the applicant was engaged. Country through which he marched. Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at the present period. Evidence by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     April 22 1773 1775 over 3 Private Col Elderkin Lieut. - Maj. Green Monmouth Red Bank Mass. Conn. Aged 85. Minchin County Sworn Witness Radcliffe   Aug. 1776. Enlisted about 3 " Palmer Col. Douglass Saratoga Mass. Con't   May 1776 1 Captain Ward White Plains N. York   Spring 1778. out of service " Storrs N. Jersey   Aug 1780 2 " W. Col. Penn   1781. 4 " M'Clains   Served as a two years Captain for a period in the whole exceeding  
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS,
Commissioner of Pensions.

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

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

1. State of New York Clinton County
On this third day of January 1833 personally appeared in open Court before the judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Clinton now sitting in the said County, James Stedman a resident of the town of Plattsburg in the County of Clinton in the State of New York aged Eighty seven years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832. That at the time of the commencement of the Revolutionary War by the attack of the British forces at Lexington & Concord, he resided in the Town of Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut, that he commanded a Company of Militia in the Regiment commanded by Col Elderkin, that as soon as the news of the Lexington battle arrived, he mustered his Company, and when about ready to march, with the greater part of his Company, he received orders from Col Elderkin, to proceed as soon as possible towards Boston, that on the 22 nd or 23 rd of April 1775 he marched under the command of Lieut Col Stooes & Major Brann, Col Elderkin being out of health, to Cambridge near Boston, where he remained under the command of General Putnam until about the first of August, about two or three weeks after Gen Washington took the command of the Army when he was dismissed, the regiment was greatly

reduced by the appointment of some of the Officers and the enlistment of the men into the regular service and the latter part of the time the Regiment was commanded he thinks by Major Brown, he served some time over three months.
And the said James Stedman further on his oath declares, that about the first of January 1776, a Regiment was ordered to be raised in the eastern section of the State of Connecticut by voluntary enlistment, or as a failure by detachment or draft. That he volunteered, and men offered themselves and his Company was immediately supplied with men under Lieuts Allen and Palmer, and Ensign Hale, marched to Cambridge near Boston and joined the Regiment commanded by Col. Douglass, was stationed in the College buildings in the town of Cambridge. Col. Hutchinson's Regiment was stationed in a part of the College .
Sometimes in the month of February (as he thinks) it was reported that the British General contemplated an attack upon and post at Dorchester heights, and on the day the attack was expected to be made, the Army about Cambridge was paraded and it was understood among the troops that General Washington calculated to make an attempt to take possession of Boston at the same time, and in fact a large number of flat boats were prepared and in readiness to make the attack on Boston, or induce the enemy to believe that Gen l Washington's determination was to make a simultaneous attack on Boston with the attack on Dorchester heights, however no attack was made on Dorchester and of course none on Boston. Sometimes in February Col. Douglass Regiment was ordered to Roxbury, and soon after

a party was ordered to Dorchester Point, to commence a fortification on the point of land the nearest to Boston in that quarter. A small breast work was thrown up before it was discovered by the enemy, but at daylight a firing commenced and the breast work or battery not being suf- -ficient to shelter all the men, a small number were killed and wounded, and in a very short time after the British troops evacuated Boston and General Washington with a part of his Army took possession of it. Col. Douglass Reg- -iment was raised for two months, and before the time expired, a request was made to continue sometime longer, and the said James Stedman declares that he and a considerable part of his Company continued until the fore part of April when they were dismissed having served about three months. In Cambridge was under the command of Gen. Putnam, in Roxbury under the command of Gen. Thomas he believes. And the said James Stedman further declares as his oath, that about the middle of May 1776, he was appointed Captain in a Regiment to be commanded by Col. Ward, and under him Lieut. Col. Johnson. My Lieut. were Hetch and Mates and Ensign Reed, the Company was soon raised and we were ordered to Boston in the State of Massachusetts, but this order was soon countermanded and we marched to Norwalk in the State of Connecticut, from thence sailed to New York, and after a short stay ordered to Fort Lee on the West bank of the North River above New York, after that marched to Westchester, and after the enemy took possession of New York and landed at Kings neck

as the sound Easterly from New York, marched to White Plains, where at Westchester was united into a Brigade with Col Cheffers and Col Sargeants regiments, and either at West Chester or White Plains, the Brigade was Commanded by Gen Sullivan. After the battle at White Plains in which he took a share, marched to North Castle and about the fifth first of November (he believes) marched into New Jersey, and was stationed in the vicinity of Morristown, spent the winter chiefly in patrols or scouting parties, as the Army under Gen Washington was greatly reduced about the close of the year, the few remaining troops were almost constantly in motion, and about the middle of March Col Mards regiment marched to the town of Chatham and vicinity and in- -laced for the small posts, and afterwards were stationed in and about the town of Newark until discharged, the middle of May 1777.
The Regiment was raised for one year and I received my Commission about the middle of May 1776, and I presume that my name and rank will be found on the Muster roll of Col Mards Regiment in the War Office. If it should appear on examination that the Muster Roll is not Complete , and my name is not found thereon, and any doubt should remain and further proof should be thought necessary to establish my claim to a pension, I wish reference may be made to two affidavits that were forwarded from St Lawrence County in the State of New York to the War Office in October last in further of an application of Thomas Stedman who was in my Company during the time from June 1776 to May 1777, one of these affidavits was made by Joseph

5 Ashley, who was in my Company, and the other by Jonathan Holt who was in Col Ward regi- ment this not in my Company, he lived in the same town with me until a few years since when he enlisted, and resided in the same town with me until a few years since, and has received a pension from Government several years for his services at that time. The affidavits were made in Windham County in the State of Connecticut, last April or May with a view to apply for a pension by Thomas Stedman under the old law, but after this law was passed in June last, his application was made under that law.
And the said James Stedman further states under oath that in the close of the year 1777 as in the year 1778 all the men in the State of Connecticut who were exempt from Military duty in the Militia, were organized into Companies and regiments, or annexed to the Regiments within the limits of which they were located, under the title of Alarm light Companies, and were made subject to drafts the same as the Militia, that he was appointed to the Command of the Company in that part of the Town of Windham in which he resided and that sometime about the month of August 1780 a Call was made for a Regiment of Militia to garrison the post of New London and Groton in the State of Connecticut, as the troops stationed there were called to Rhode Island to assist Gen l Sullivan in the attack on New port on Rhode Island, that he was detached and marched to New London and was ordered with his Company to Groton

on the East side of New London harbour, the Regiment was commanded by Col Abbott, and that part of the Regiment which was stationed in Groton were employed chiefly in completing Fort Griswold, particularly in making a covered way from a battery near the bank of the river Thames, to the principal part on the height of the land, the other part of the Regiment, I believe was stationed in or near New London, and occupied in and about Fort Trumbull on the west bank of the River Thames, a part of which river forms New London harbour, and the Regiment was dismissed the latter part of October after having served two months. And the said James Stedman as his oath further declares, that at the time the post at New London and Groton was attacked by the British troops under Genl Arnold, a call was made for the militia and he was detached and marched to New London and joined the regiment commanded by Col McClellan, that he commanded a company in the regiment for two months the term for which we were detached, and as the troops were wanted for a longer time Col McClellan and a considerable part of the Regiment and the subscribers volunteered to continue another term of two months, a part of the Regiment returned homeward, others joined the regiment and continued in the service two months longer, employed principally in repairing Fort Trumbull, Fort Griswold, drilling out the Cannon that were spiked by the British troops and at the end of the second term of two months were dismissed, having served four months, this service was in the year 1781. and the subscribers then lived in the town of Milford

County of Windham and State of Connecticut. And the said James Shedman doth further declare that he was born in the town of Cambridge in the State of Massachusetts in the month of March 1745 that the time of his birth (he believes) is regis- tered in the record of births and deaths in the Town of Cambridge. I received a Captains Com- -mission about six months before the Revolu- -tionary war commenced, in the Militia of the State of Connecticut signed by Jonathan Trumbull Governor, and countersigned by M'lyllis Secretary of State in May 1776. I received a Captains Commission to serve one year signed by J. Trumbull Governor and countersigned by M'lyllis Secretary of State, and sometime (I believe) in the Spring of the year 1778 he received another Captains Commission and appointed to the Command of the Alarm list Company in the town of Windham, and was annexed to the Regiment of Militia commanded by Col Storrs, and in the year 1796 the house which he occupied was burned and his Commissions destroyed. That at the commencement of the War, and through the whole time of the War in in living Windham County of Windham & State of Connecticut and of said James (except when in service) he resided in the town of Windham, until the year 1790 the town of Windham was divided, and that part where I resided was named Hampton, where I have resided until about the last of March 1832 my health not being very good I spent the time since in various places in the State of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New London York and I now reside in the town of Plattsburg in the County of Clinton in the State of New York where I expect to reside the remainder of my life.

And the said James Stedman hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or an annuity except the present, and he declares that his name is not on any pension roll of any agency of any State of the Union.
And the said James Stedman further on his oath declares and says that he has annexed hereto, and hereunto produces the affidavits of Nathan Hovey, and Samuel Wood and Thomas Stedman relative to the aforesaid service of the deponent. And the said James Stedman farther on his oath saith, that he is the same identical James Stedman named in the said depositions respectively, and that he knew the said Nathan Hovey, Samuel Wood and Thomas Stedman at the times mentioned in their depositions respectively, and that they respectively served as is in their said depositions stated. And the said James Stedman further saith, that he served as a Captain in the Manner and at the times stated in this declaration for a period in the whole exceeding two years, and he further says that he received but one regular discharge in writing during the periods mentioned in this declaration, and that was at the expiration of the years service in the year 1777. at the other periods the Militia or troops were dismissed in the ordinary manner without discharges being given to the individuals respectively, and this deponent says that the discharge so received by him in the year 1777. together with his commissions as Captain and all other papers relating to the service were destroyed in the house at the time the same was burned as herein before mentioned.

And the said James Stedman further saith that he has lately come to reside in Plattsburg in consequence of a purchase made of a house and lot of land by a grand son of the deponent, with whom he expects to reside as soon as the Grand son can remove here in the spring by water, & that previously he was not known to or acquainted with any of the inhabitants of this town.
Sworn in open Court (Signed) James Stedman the 8 th day of January 1833 Before me Smith Mead. Deputy Clerk.
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary soldier and served as he states. I Nathan Taylor Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of the said County of Clinton do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the Original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of James Stedman for a Pension
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal of Office this third day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three Nathan Taylor Clerk By Smith Mead, Deputy
State of New York } Franklin County }
I Nathan Hovey of the town of St. Manchester in the province of Lower Canada being duly sworn according to

law, declare that as soon as the news of the battle of Lexington arrived, Capt James Stedman of Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut who Commanded a Company of Militia in the Town of Windham mustered his Company and marched to then Cambridge near Boston about the 2 nd of April 1775. Capt Stedman engaged me to cover provisions for his Company, and after he arrived at Cambridge Lieut Col Storrs, engaged me and my team to work for the troops, and I spent the Summer chiefly in conveying provisions to the Army. Lieut Col Storrs Commanded the regiment untill some time in June when he left the Army, and the Regiment was Commanded by Major Brown, and Capt Stedman and his Company was dismissed on the 3 rd day of August and took passage home to the town of Windham in my Wagon.
Nathan Hovey.
Personally appeared before me Nathan Hovey well known to me and reputed to be a person of truth, and subscribed and swore to the truth of the above affidavit, this 19 th day of September 1832.
Asa Hascall Justice of the Peace.
State of New York } Franklin County }
I John H. Russell deputy Clerk of the County of Franklin aforesaid do hereby certify that Asa Hascall Esquire before whom the within affidavit of Nathan Hovey purporting to have been taken, and who made the Certificate of the same there under-written, was at the day of the date of the

Said Certificate of Justice of the peace in and for the said County of Franklin duly appointed and sworn. And further that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice and verily believe that the name "Isa Nascall" subscribed to the said Certificate is his proper hand writing and genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said County this 19 th day of September A. D. 1832.
John H. Russell. Dep Clerk
State of New York St Lawrence County } ss.
Samuel Ward of the town of Massena St Lawrence County and State of New York, being duly sworn, declares that as soon as the news of Lexington battle arrived in the town of Ashford in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut where he then lived he marched with the Militia to Cambridge near Boston in Capt Knowlton's Company, regiment was commanded by Lieut Col Morris and the latter part of the time by Major Brown we marched the 22 nd of April I believe, soon after Capt Knowlton was appointed a Captain in the regular service, and other officers in the Regt were also appointed, and a considerable number of Capt Knowlton's men enlisted into the regular service, and this deponent and a number of others were transferred to Capt James Steadman's Company who marched the same time and belonged to the same Regiment, and I served in the Company which he commanded until the third day of August about two or three weeks after

Genl Washington took the Command of the Army when Capt James Stedman and his Company were dismissed having served three months and about ten days. And this deponent further states that about the first of January 1776. he enlisted under Lieut Allen in Capt James Stedmans Company and Col Douglass regiment, we, engaged for two months, and were stationed in Cambridge in the College buildings until the latter part of February, we marched to Roxbury. Sometime in February, it was said the British were preparing to attack the post on Dorchester heights. Genl Washington had pre- -pared a large number of boats and calculated to make an attack on Boston at the same time, and on the day of the expected attack on Dorchester the Army was paraded in and about Cambridge and remained under arms nearly the whole day, but no attack was made on Dorchester and of course none on Boston. Before the two months expired a request was made to Col Douglass and the regiment to remain some time longer, and the greater part of the Regiment and Capt Stedman and his Company remained about another month. the invalids and some others were dismissed. After we removed to Roxbury a battery was erected on Dorchester point and soon after the enemy left Boston and about the first of April Capt James Stedman and his Company were dismissed, he having continued to command the Company three months.
Samuel Ward
Subscribed and sworn before me this 16 th day of September 1832
Ebenezer Dyer
Justice of the Peace.

This may certify that I am well acquainted with Samuel Ward and he is reputed a person of truth.
Ebenezer Minor. J. P.
State of New York } St Lawrence County }
I Alvin C. Sawin Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of said County do hereby certify that Ebenezer Minor before whom the foregoing affidavit of Samuel Ward was made was at the time of taking said affidavit a Justice of the peace in and for said County duly elected and sworn, and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice and verily believe his signature to the said affidavit to be genuine.
Sealed Executed
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this 20 th day of Decr 1832.
A. C. Sawin
State of New York } County of St Lawrence }
Thomas Stedman of the town of Massena in the County of St Lawrence being duly sworn according to law, declares under the solemnity of his oath, that the fore part of June A. D. 1776 I enlisted into Capt James Stedmans Company, the Regiment was Commanded by Col Ward, that this deponent and Capt Stedman lived in the town of Windham in the State of Connecticut, that the Regiment was raised for one year commencing about the middle of May 1776, that Captain Stedman and Company marched to Norristown in Connecticut, from there sailed to New York, thence to Fort Lee, on the

North River, thence to West Chester near Kingsbridge about 15 miles from the City of New York, thence to White Plains, after the battle at White Plains marched to North Castle, thence across the North River into the State of New Jersey, and were stationed in several places in the neighborhood of Morristown in New Jersey. About the first of March removed to the town of Chatham and were inculcated for the small pox, afterward removed to and were stationed at Newark in New Jersey until we were dismissed about the middle of June 1777. And this deponent says that Capt James Stedman Commanded his Company, personally the whole time (except two or three weeks sickness) until discharged which was one year.
And this deponent further says that sometime in August 1780 a call was made for the militia to garrison the post at New London and Groton in the State of Connecticut, that this deponent enlisted for the Claps to which he belonged into Capt Rusts Company. The regiment was Commanded by Col Abbott, marched to Groton and was employed chiefly in compleating Fort Griswold in the town of Groton on the East side of New London harbour, the regiment served two months and was then dismissed, and this deponent says that Capt James Stedman engaged at the time the regiment was raised, and Commanded a Company in Col Abbotts regiment, and was dismissed at the same time as the rest of the Regiment having served two months, and further that this deponent and Capt Stedman then resided in the town of Windham, County of Windham and State of Connecticut. And this deponent further says that at the time of the capture of New London and

Groton in the State of Connecticut, by the British troops under the Command of traitor Arnold in the year 1781. the Militia were called for, and Capt James Stedman was detached or drafted to Command a Company under Col M c Clelland and Marched to New London, that this deponent then lived with Capt Stedman in the town of Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut, and this deponent went with Capt Stedmans horses and waggon, and Carried him and several of his Company to New London. At the end of two months a Call was made on the Militia in the Counties of New London and Windham, to turn out and relieve those at New London and the regiment under the Command of Col M c Clelland was dismissed, but part of the Regiment volunteered for another tour of two months, Col M c Clelland and Capt James Stedman remained in the service two months longer and at the expiration of the second tour of two months Thomas Denison a hired man who worked on Capt Stedmans farm, went with his team and waggon and brought him home with several of his Company having been absent from home and in the service several days over four months.
And this deponent further says that he enlisted in Capt James Stedmans Company about the first of January 1776 and served in his Company about three months, but as Samuel Ward was in said Company this deponent has not related the particulars of that tour, but having read the affidavit of Samuel Ward relating to that service declares it to be true and correct and further this deponent saith not
Thomas Stedman.

Subscribed and sworn to this 17 th day of December 1832. Before me
Chauncy Pettibone Judge H.
State of New York St Lawrence County ss.
I Alvin C. Low clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of said County do hereby certify that Chauncy Pettibone Esquire before whom the annexed deposition of Thomas Stedman were made and whose name is subscrib- -ed to the Certificate following was at the time of taking the said deposition, and making the said Certificate one of the judges of the Court of Common Pleas of said County duly Commissioned and sworn and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing and signature of the said judge and verily believe his signature to the said deposition and Certificate to be genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this 20 th day of Decemr 1832.
A. C. Low Clk
State of New York St Lawrence County
On the second day of July A. D. 1833 personally appeared before me the undersigned Robert S. Day a justice of the peace for St Lawrence County James Stedman, who being duly sworn according to law, deposeth and saith, that he now resides in the town of Massena in the County of St Lawrence, that last January he resided in Plattsburg in the County of Clinton, that by reason of old age and consequent loss of Memory, he cannot swear positively to the

Precise length of time he served in the Revolutionary War, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the grade as stated. From the 23 d of April 1775 to the first of August I served as a Captain under Lieut Col Storrs, and Major Brown at Cambridge in Massachusetts not less than three months and seven days, and from the first of January 1776 I served as Captain under Col Douglass to the 3 d of April not less than three months at Cambridge and Roxbury in the State of Massachusetts not less than three months, and he further says that on the 14 th day of May 1776 he received a Captain's Commission from Governor Trumbull and served in Col Ward's regiment as a Captain and commanded a Company in said regiment until the middle or 15 th day of May 1777. Served not less than one year. And he further says that about the fifteenth of August 1780 he was ordered from Governor Trumbull, he was drafted as a Captain and served in Col Abbott's regiment at New London and Groton in the State of Connecticut not less than two months. And he further says that at the time New London and Groton were taken by the British under Gen Arnold he was detached as a Captain and marched to New London, and commanded a Company in Col McClelland's regiment for two months, and at the end of two months Col McClelland and the principal part of his regiment engaged again for two months, and he the said James Steadman engaged anew and commanded a Company in Col McClelland's regiment for two months longer having served not less than four months in the summer and fall of 80, and he said

James Stedman says that he served in the revolutionary war agreeable to the above statement not less than two years and seven days as a Captain, he served in no other grade, and the examining Clerk will notice a mistake in his tabular statement, the two first terms of service are noted as a private, but by reference to the statement of the applicant, and the testimony of the witness he served as a Captain, and the said James Stedman says that he engaged each time of service under the direction of orders from the Governor, or was drafted or detached by the Governor's order, that he served the whole time in an embodied Corps, and was in no civil business or pursuit. If any further proof is deemed necessary relative to my service for one year in Col Wards regiment. I make reference may be had to the affidavit of Joseph Ashley and Jonathan Stott, both served in Col Wards regiment, and Joseph Ashley in my Company, these affidavits are annexed to the application of Thomas Stedman and is numbered from 14660 to 14664 There is no Clergyman residing in the town Mapes.
James Stedman
The said James Stedman is personally known to me, and the above statement was sworn to and subscribed the day and year afore-said. Before me
R. S. Day. J. P.
I Oliver Robinson now residing in the town of Mapes County of St Lawrence and State of New York, formerly a resident in the town of Hampton in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut, the same town where

Capt James Sledman formerly resided, that I believe him to be about eighty seven years, of that it was universally reported and believed where he then resided that he was a Soldier an Officer and abolition of the Revolution and I fully concur in that opinion but as Capt Sledman has resided in Mapen but a short time the people know but little about the business
Oliver Robinson
Personally appeared before me the undersigned a justice of the peace for St Lawrence County Oliver Robinson a resident of the said town of Mapen, well known to me and reputed a person of truth, and swore to the above Certificate this 2 d day of July 1833
R. S. Day. J. P.
I Samuel Ward residing in the Town of Mapen in the County of St Lawrence and State of New York, certify that I formerly resided in the town of Ashford in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut adjoining the town of Hampton where Capt James Sledman formerly resided, and that I am well acquainted with Capt James Sledman who was subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that I believe him to be about eighty six or seven years of age, that he is reputed and believed in the town of Hampton where he formerly resided lived to have been a Soldier of the revolution and I not only concur in that opinion but know the fact to be true having served in his Company three months and in the same Brigade with him the next Campaign for several months. I now reside in the town

Maspene County of St Lawrence State of New York and as Capt James Stedman has resided but a short time there is general report and belief about his service in the revolutionary War
Sam l Ward
Personally appeared before me the undersigned a justice of the peace for St Lawrence County Samuel Ward personally well known to me and reputed a person of truth and subscribed and swore to the above statement this 2 nd day of July 1833.
H. L. Day. J. P.
State of New York St Lawrence County
I Samuel Ward residing in the town of Maspene County of St Lawrence and State of New York being duly sworn do testify and say declare that in the spring of the year 1776 then residing in the town of Ashford in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut I enlisted in Capt Moxey's Company Col Chesters Regiment, marched to New York City and about the last of August Col Chesters, Col Ward's and Col S er geants regiments were stationed at West Chester in the State of New York and erected into one Brigade. That I was well acquainted with Capt James Stedman having served in his Company the winter before. That Capt James Stedman commanded a Company in Col Ward's regiment, that Col Ward's and Col Chesters regiments were together until the last of December during all which time Capt James Stedman commanded a Company.

in Colt Ullards regiment, and was informed by those of his Company that he had commanded a Company in said regiment even since it was raised in the Spring until August when I was knowing personally to the service.
Sam d Ward
Personally appeared before me Samuel Ward being personally known to me, and reputed a person of truth and being duly sworn attested to the truth of the facts contained in the foregoing affidavit. Subscribed and sworn to the 2 d day of July A. D. 1833. before me R. S. Day J. P.
State of New York St Lawrence County
I Alvin C. Lorr Clerk of the said County do hereby certify that Robert S. Day before whom the foregoing affidavits purports to have been sworn, was at the date of the same a justice of the Peace in and for said County duly elected and sworn, and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said justice and verily believe that his name subscribed to the said Affidavits to be his proper hand writing and signature
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 31 st day of July 1833
A. C. Lorr. Clerk
The word "May" erased by me and July inserted
A. C. Lorr Clerk.

The argument was raised for some years past. I received a communication about the middle of May 1776, and I presume that my name and rank will be found on the muster roll of Col. Shelton's regiment in the war office. If it should appear an examination, that the muster roll is not complete, and my name not found therein, and my rank not stated, I should remain and for their proof should be thought necessary to establish my claim to a pension, I ought to be given may be made to two affidavits, that were for- warded from St Lawrence county in the State of New York to the war office in October last in favor of an application of Thomas Stevenson who was in my company during the time from June 1776 to May 1777, one of those affida- vits was made by Joseph Ashley who was in my company, and the other by Jonathan Hott who was in Col. Shelton's regiment though not in my company, he lived in the same town with me when he enlisted and resided in the same town with me until his discharge since, and has received a pension from gov- ernment several years for his services at the time. The affidavits were made in Windha- mshire in the State of Connecticut last a few days with a view to apply for a pension by Thomas Stevenson under the old law, but after this law was passed in June last, his appli- cation was made under that law.
St. Lawrence County, N.Y.

and the said James Sedman further states under oath, that in the close of the year 1777 or in the year 1778 all the men in the State of Connecticut who were exempt from military duty in the militia were organized into companies and regiments or annexed to the regiments within the limits of which they were located, under the title of Artillery companies, and were made subject to drafts the same as the militia, that he was appointed to the command of the company in that part of the Town of Windham in which he resided and that sometime about the month of August 1780 a call was made for a regiment of Militia to garrison the Post at New London and Groton in the State of Connecticut, as the Troops stationed there were called to Rhode Island to assist Genl Sullivan in the attack on New Port on Rhode Island that he was detached and marched to New London, and was ordered with his company to Groton on the east side of New London harbor, the regiment was commanded by Col. A. Bliss, and that part of the regiment that was stationed in Groton were employed chiefly in completing Fort Griswold, particularly in making a covered way from a battery near the bank of the river Thames, a part to the principal Fort on the height of the land the other part of the regiment I believe was stationed in or near New London, and occupied in and about Fort Trumbull on the west bank of the river Thames.

a part of which since former New Bedford has been, and the Regiment was dismissed the latter part of October, after having served two months And the said James Richardson on his oath gave the declarer that at the time the post at New Ben- -dan and Gorton was attacked by the British troops under Gen l Arnold, a call was made for the militia and he was detached and marched to New Bedford and joined the Regiment commanded by Col o M c Clellan, that he commanded a company in the Regiment for two months, the term for which we were detached, and as the troops were want- -ed for a larger line Col o M c Clellan and a considerable part of the Regiment and the Subse- -quent volunteers to continue another term of two months, a part of the Regiment returned home and others joined the Regiment, and continued in the service two months longer, employed principally in repairing Fort Griswold, drilling out the cannons that were spiked by the British troops and at the end of the second term of two months were dismissed, having served four months, this service was in the year 1781. and the Subscribers then lived in the town of Wind- -ham County of Windham & State of Connecticut And the said James Richardson doth further de- -clare that he was born in the town of Lam- -bridge in the State of Massachusetts in the month of March 1745 that the time of his birth (he believes) is represented

in the records of births and deaths in the Town of Lambbridge, I received a captain's commission about six months before the revolutionary war commenced in the militia of the State of Connec- ticut signed by Jonathan Trumbull Governor and counter signed by Wyllys Secretary of State, in May 1776 I received a captain's com- mission to serve one year signed by J. Trum- bull Governor & counter signed by - Wyllys, Secretary of State and sometime (I believe) in the Spring of the year 1778 he received another captain's commission, and appointed to the com- mand of the Lancerist company in the Town of Windham, and was annexed to the regiment of Militia commanded by Col. Storrs, and in the year 1786 the house which he occupied was burnt and his commissions destroyed, that at the com- mencement of the war and through the whole time of the war (except when in service) he resided in the Town of Windham in the county of Windham & State of Connecticut, and resided in the same Town of Windham until the year 1790 the Town of Windham was divided, and that part where I resided was named Hampton where I have resided until about the last of March 1832 my health being not very good, spent the some time since in various places in the State of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York, and I now reside in the Town of Plattsburg in the county of Clinton

in the State of New York, where I expect to reside the remainder of my life -
And the said James Stedman hereby relin- -quishes every claim whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on any pension roll of any agency of any State of the union -
And the said James Stedman further on his oath declares and says, that he has annexed hereto, and here- -with produces the affidavits of Nathan Hovey, and Samuel Ward, and Shamer Stedman relative to the aforesaid service of this deponent -
And the said James Stedman further on his oath saith that he is the same identical James Stedman named in the said depositions respectively, and that he knew the said Nathan Hovey, Samuel Ward, and Shamer Stedman at the times mentioned in their depositions respectively, and that they respectively served as is in their said depositions stated - And the said James Sted- man further saith that he served as a Captain in the manner and at the times stated in this declaration for a period in the whole exceeding two years - and he further says that he received but one regular dis- -charge in writing during the periods mentioned in this declaration, and that near at the expiration of the years service in the year 1777 at the other periods the militia or troops were dismissed in the ordinary manner, without discharges being given to the individuals respectively, and this deponent says that the discharge so received by him in the year 1777 together with his commission as Captain were and all other papers relating to the service were destroyed in the house

at the time the same war occurred as herein before mentioned -
And the said James Stedman further saith that he has lately come to reside in Plattsburg in consequence of a purchase made of a house and lot of land by a grandson of his deceased with whom he expects to reside, as soon as the grandson can remove here in the spring spring by water, and that he was not previously known to, or acquainted with any of the inhab- itants of this town.
Sworn in open Court this 3 rd day of January 1833
Before me Smith Mead Deputy Clerk
James Stedman
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion that the above named applicant was a re- -volutionary Soldier and served as he states -
I Nathan Taylor Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of the said County of Clinton do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of James Stedman for a pension =
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal of office this third day of January in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty three -
Nathan Taylor Clerk By Smith Mead Deputy

State of New York § I Nathan Hovey of the Franklin County § Town of Godmanchester in the province of Lower Canada being duly sworn according to law, declare, that as soon as the news of the battle at Lexington arrived, Capt. Francis Stod- man of Windham in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut, who commanded a company of the militia in the Town of Windham, mustered his company, and marched to Cambridge near Bos- ton about the 22 d of April 1775, Capt. Stodman en- gaged me to carry provisions for his company, and after we arrived at Cambridge Lieut. Col. Storer engaged me and my team to work for the troops, and I spent the summer chiefly in carrying provisions to the army, and Lieut. Col. Storer commanded the Regiment until some time in June when he left the army and the regiment was commanded by Major Green, and Capt. Stodman and his company was dismissed on the 3 d day of August, and took my team home to the Town of Windham in my wagon. Nathan Hovey
Subscribed and sworn to before me Nathan Hovey well known to me and reputed a person of truth and subscribed and sworn to truth of the above affidavit this 19 th day of September 1832 Asa Haskall Justice of the Peace

State of New York } I, John H Russell Deputy Clerk of the Franklin County } County of Franklin aforesaid Do. hereby certify that the Hascall Espine, before whom the within affidavit of Nathan Hovey purports to have been taken and who made the certificate of the same whereunder written, was on the day of the date of the said certificate a justice of the peace in and for the said County of Franklin duly appointed and qualified. And further that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said justice and verily believe that the name "Asa Hascall" subscribed to the said certificate is his proper hand writing and genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said County this 19th day of September 1832. John H Russell Dep. Clerk
Stedman, James Conn 528898
Nathan Hovey Affidavit

State of New York } On this third day of January Clinton County } 1833 personally appeared in open Court before the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Clinton now sitting in the said County James Sedman a resident of the Town of Plattsburg in the county of Clinton in the State of New York aged eighty seven years, who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declara- tion in order to obtain the benefit of the pro- vision made by the act of March 22 d passed June 7 th 1832. That at the time of the commence- ment of the revolutionary war by the attack of the British forces at Lexington & Concord he resided in the Town of Windham in the county of Windham and State of Connecticut that he commanded a company of Militia in the regiment commanded by Col o Elderkirk that as soon as the news of the Lexington battle arrived he mustered his company, and when about ready to march with the greater part of his company, he received orders from Col o Elderkirk to proceed as soon as possible towards Boston, that on the 22 d or 23 d of April 1775 he marched under the command of Lieut. Col o Storer & Major Brainerd, Col o Elderkirk being out of health, to Bunker Hill near Boston, where he remained under the command of General Putnam until about the first of August, at which

two or three weeks after Genl Washington took the command of the army, where he was distressed the regiment was greatly reduced, by the enlistment most of fame of the Officers and the enlistment of the men into the regular service, and the lat- ter part of the time the regiment was command- -ed thereby by Major Brainerd, he served some time over three months.
And the said James Shedman further on his oath declares, that about the first of January 1776, a regi- -ment was ordered to be raised in the eastern section of the State of Connecticut, by voluntary enlistment as a Garrison by detachment or draft, that he volunteered, and men offered them -selves, and any company was immediately sup- -plied with men under Lieuts Allen & Palmer. and ensign Hale, marched to Lambridge near Boston and joined the regiment commanded by Col. Dugdale, was stationed in the called Col. Hutchinson's regiment was stationed in a part of the buildings buildings in the town of Lambridge sometime in the month of February (as he thinks) it was reported that the British General contemplated -led an attack upon our post at Barchester heights and as thereby the attack was expected to be made the army about Lambridge was paraded, and it was understood among the troops that General Washington calculated to make an attempt to take the harbor of Boston at the same time, and in fact a large number of flat boats were

prepared and in readiness to make the attack on Boston, as induce the enemy to believe that Genl. Washington's determination was to make a final - turn our attack on Boston with the attack on Sachever heights, however no attack was made on Sachever, and of course none on Boston - Same time in Newburyport Col. Dagg's regiment was ordered to Roxbury, and soon after a party was ordered on to Sachever Point to commence a fortification on the Point of Land the nearest to Boston in that quarter, a small breast wall was soon thrown up was thrown before it was discover- -ed by the enemy, but at day light a firing com- -menced, and the breast work, or battery not being sufficient to shelter all the men, a small num- -ber were killed and wounded, and in a very short time after the British troops evacua- -ted Boston, and Genl. Washington with a part of his army took possession of it - Col. Dagg's regiment was raised for two months, and before the time expired, a request was made to continue Same time longer, and the said James Stodman declares that he and a considerable part of his company continued until the surrender of the fort when they were dismissed, having served about three months. In Cambridge under the command of Genl. Washington And the said James Stodman further declares on his oath that about the middle of May 1776 he was appointed a captain in a new regiment to be

commanded by Col d Ward, and under him Lieut s Col d John Far, my Lieut s were Fitch and Wales and in sign. Next the company was soon raised and we were ordered to Boston in the State of Massachusetts, but this order was soon countermanded, and we marched to New- wich in the State of Connecticut, from thence sailed to New York, and after a short stay, ordered to Fort Lee on the west bank of the north river above New York, after that we marched to Whitechester, and after the enemy took possession of New York, and landed at Long's neck on the sound easterly from New York marched to White Plains, while at Whitechester was united into a brigade with Col d Pheasant & Col d Sergeant's regiments, and either at Whitechester or White Plains, the brigade was commanded by Gen l Sullivan, after the battle at White Plains in which he took a share, marched to South Castle and about the first of November (he believes) march- ed into New Jersey, and was stationed in the vicinity of Haverstown, spent the winter chiefly in patrols and scouting parties, as the army under Gen l Washington was greatly reduced about the close of the year, the few remaining troops were almost constantly in motion, and about the middle of March Col d Ward's regiment marched to the town of Chatham and vicinity, and incor- porated to the Small Pox, and afterwards was stationed in and about the town of Newark un- till discharged the middle of May 1777.

State of New York (4 th Samuel Ward of the Town of Lawrence County) of Naperia St Lawrence County and State of New York, being duly sworn declare that as soon as the news of Lexington battle arrived in the Town of Ashford in the County of Windham & State of Connecticut where he then lived, he marched with the Militia to Cambridge near Boston, in Capt. Knowl- ton's company. Regiment was commanded by Lieut Col. Hovey, and the latter part of the time by Major Brown, we mar- ched the 22 nd of April I believe, soon after Capt. Knowlton was appointed a Capt. in the re- gular Service, and other Officers in the Regi- ment were also appointed, and a conside- rable number of Capt. Knowlton's men en- listed into the regular Service, and this detachment and a number of others were transferred to Capt. James Stedman's Company who marched soon the same time and be- longed to the same Regiment, and I served in this company which he commanded until the third day of August, about two or three weeks after Gen l Washington took the command of the Army when Capt. James Stedman and his company were dismissed having served three months and about ten days - And this detachment from this State that about the first of January 1776 he enlisted under Lieut Allen in Capt. James Stedman's Compa-

Cannany and Col d Douglass Regiment, we engaged for two months, and were stationed in Cambridge in the college buildings until  about the latter part of February, we mar- ched to Roxbury, same time in February it was said that the British were preparing to attack the Post on Dorchester heights, Genl Washington had prepared a large number of boats, and calculated to make an attack on Boston at the same time, and on the day of the expected attack on Dorchester the Army was paraded, and about Cambridge and remained under arms nearly the whole day, but no attack was made on Boston Dorchester and of course none on Boston, before the two months expired, a request was made to Col d Douglass to lead the Regiment to remain some time longer, and the greater part of the Regi- ment, and Col d Thaddeus and his Company remained about another month, the invalids and some others were discharged - After we re- -turned to Roxbury a battery was erected on Dorchester Point, and soon after the enemy left Boston and about the first of April Col d James Thad- -deus and his Company were discharged, he having for some reason continued to command the Com- pany three months. This may certify that before me this 6th Day of September 1832 I am well acquainted with Samuel Ward and he is reputed a person of truth  John Minton Justice of the Peace E. Minton S. P.

State of New York St Lawrence County
I, Allen C. Soper, Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, of said County, do hereby certify that Ebenezer Mainer before whom the foregoing affidavit of Michael Ward was made was at the time of making the said affidavit a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly elected & sworn, and that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of the said Justice and truly believe his signature to the said affidavit to be genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 20 th day of Dec r 1832
A C Soper Clk

Samuel Ward affidavit for James Shodman

State of New York - Ep Thomas Stedman County of St Lawrence) of the Town of Mass- ena in the County of St Lawrence being duly sworn according to Law, declares under the solemnity of his oath, that the fore part of June 1876 testified into Capt James Stedman's Company the regiment was commanded by Col Ward, that this regi- ment and Capt Stedman lived in the Town of Windham in the State of Connecticut that the regiment was raised for one year commencing about the middle of May 1876, that Capt Stedman's Compa- ny marched to Harrisburg in Pennsyl- -vania thence sailed to New York thence to Fort Lee, on the north river then to Westchester, near Kingsbridge about 14 miles from the city of New York thence to White Plains, after the battle at White Plains, marched to North Platte, thence across the North river to into the State of New Jersey, and were stationed in several places in the neigh- -borhood of New Brunswick in New Jersey about the first of March, remained to the Town of Paterson and were in- -cubated for the small Pox, afterward re- -mained to, and was station at Newark

in New Jersey until we were discharged about the middle of May 1777. And this deponent says that Capt. James H. D. man commanded his company pe-sonally the whole time, (except two or three weeks sick-ness) until discharged which was a year.
And this deponent further says that same time in August 1780 a call was made for the militia to garrison the Fort at New London and Groton in the State of Connecticut, that this deponent enlisted for the class to which he belonged into Capt. Ruff's Company. The regiment was commanded by Col. Abbott marched to Groton and was employed chiefly in camp during Genl. Greene's field in the town of Groton on the east side of New London harbor. The regiment served two months, and was then discharged, and this deponent says that Capt. James H. D. man engaged at the time the regiment was raised, and commanded a company in Col. Abbott's regiment and was discharged at the same time as the rest of the regiment, having served two months, and further that this deponent and Capt. H. D. man then resided in the town of Windham, in the

county of Windham & State of Connecticut And this deponent further says that at the time of the capture of New London and Groton in the State of Connecticut by the British Troops under the command of Genl For Arnold in the year 1781, the militia were called for, and Col d James Sedgwick was detached and drafted to command a company under Col d M c Clellan, and marched to the New London, that this deponent then lived with Col d Sedg- wick, in the Town of Windham in the county of Windham & State of Connecti- cut and this deponent went with Col d Sedgwick's Horse and waggon and car- ried him and General of his company to New London, at the end of two months a call was made on the militia in the counties of New London and Windham to turn out and relieve those at New London, and the Regiment under the command of Col d M c Clellan was dismissed but part of the regiment voluntarily for another term of two months, Col d M c Clellan and Col d James Sedgwick remain- ed in the service two months longer and at the expiration of the second term

of two months Thomas Denison a hired man who worked on Capt. Stedman's farm went with his team and waggon and brought him home with funeral of his family, having been absent from home and in the service funeral days and four months -
And this deponent further says that he enlisted in Capt. James Stedman's company about the first of January 1846 and served in his company about three months, but as Samuel  William Ward was in said company this deponent has not related the particulars of that time, but having read the affi- davit of Samuel  William Ward relating to that service, declares it to be true and correct And further this deponent saith not
Thomas Stedman
Subscribed and sworn to this 17th day of 1832
Before me
Chas. Pettibone
Judge etc
This may certify that I am well acquainted with Thomas Stedman the above named deponent, that he is reputed a person of truth Napa Dec 14th 1832
Chas. Pettibone Judge of Superior Court

State of New York } St Lawrence County } I, Maria Ann clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of said County, do hereby certify that Chauncy Pittbore Esquire before whom the affixed deposition of Thomas Studman was made and whose name is subscribed to the Certificate following was at the time of taking the said deposition and making the said Certificate one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of said County duly commissioned and sworn & that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Judge and rightly believe his signature to the said deposition and Certificate to be genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office This 30 th day of Dec r 1832 H. M. Clark

If any communication to me is necessary relative to this application for a Pension and if the decision is favorable or not, I wish the communication may be made to Thomas Stedman in the Town of Massena, in the County of St. Lawrence and State of New York, and if the result is favorable, my wish is that the Agency at Utica in the State of New York may be the place to receive amount of the pen- sion.

State of New York } On the second day of July St Lawrence County } 1833 personally appear- -ed before me the under-
Signed Robert S. Day a Justice of the Peace for St Lawrence County James Hedman who being duly sworn according to Law deposes & saith, that he now resides in the Town of Mapera in the county of St Law- -rence, that last January he resided in Platts- -burg in the county of Clinton, that by reason of old age and consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively  positively to the precise length of time he served in the revol. army was, but according to the best of his recollections he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the grade as stated - From the 23 d of April 1775 to the first of August I served as a Captain under Lieut. Col. Storer & Major Brown at Cambridge in Massachusetts not less than three months & seven days - and from the first of January 1776 I served as a Captain under Col. Douglass to the 2 d or 3 d of April not less than three months, a Cambridge and Roxbu- -ry in the State of Massachusetts not less than three months, and he further says that on the 14 th day of May 1776 he received

a Captain Commissioned from Governor Turnbull, and served in Col o Ward's re- giment, was as a Captain and com- manded a company in said regiment until the middle or 15 th day of May 1777 served not less than one year.
And he further says that about the fifteenth of August 1780 by an order from Governor Turnbull he was drafted as a Captain and served in Col o Abbott's Abbott's regiment at New London & Groton in the State of Connecticut not less than two months.
And he further says, that at the time New London and Groton were taken by the British troops under Gen l Arnold he was detached to as a Captain and marched to New London, and com- manded a company in Col o M c Clellan's regiment for two months, and at the end of two months, Col o M c Clellan and the principal part of his regiment en- gaged again for two months and he says the said James Hedman engaged again, and commanded a company in Col o M c Clellan's regiment for two months longer, having served not less than four months the summer & fall of 1801 And the said James Hedman says that he served in the revolu- tionary war agreeable to the above State-

not less than two years, and seven days as a captain, he served in no other grade, and the examining clerk will notice a mistake, in his Tabular Statement the two first terms of service are noted as a private, but by reference to the Statement of the applicant and the Testimony of the witness he served as a captain, and the said former Sted- man says that he engaged each time of service under the direction of Orders from the Governor, as was drafted or detached by the Governor's Order that he served the whole time in an embodied Corps, and was in no civil business or pursuit. If any further proof is deemed necessary relative to my service for one year in Col. Ward's regiment, I with reference may be had, to the affidavit of Joseph Ashley, and Jonathan Hall, both served in Col. Ward's regiment, and Joseph Ashley in my com- pany, these affidavits are annexed to the application of Thomas Stedman and is numbered from 14,600, to 14,604 14,604 - There is no clergyman residing in the Town of Natsuna James Stedman

The said James Stedman is personally known to me, and the above State- ment was sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid Before me R S Day J. P.
I Oliver Robinson now residing in the Town of Mahena. County of St Law- rence and State of New York, formerly a resident in the Town of Hampton in the County of Windham & State of Connec- ticut, the same Town where late James Stedman formerly resided, that I be- lieve him to be about eighty seven years, that it was universally report- ed and believed where he then resi- ded that he was a Soldier or Officer of the revolution, and I fully concurs in that opinion, but as late Sted- man has resided in Mahena but a short time, the people know but little about the subject Oliver Robinson
Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the Peace for St Lawrence County, Oliver Robinson a resident of the said Town of Mahena well known to me, and we put a person of truth and swore to the above certificate this 2 day of July 1833 R S Day J. P.

I Samuel Ward residing in the Town of Massena in the County of St Lawrence and State of New York Certify that I formerly resided in the Town of R'keford in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut adjoining the Town of Hampton where Capt James Theodorus For- merly resided, and that I am well acquainted with Capt James Theod- orus who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that I be- lieve him to be about eightyfive or sixty years of age, that he is respected and beloved in the Town of Hampton where he formerly lived to have been a soldier of the revolution, and I not only concur in that opinion, but know the fact to be true, having served in his company three months and in the same Brigade with him the next campaign for several months I now reside in the Town of Massena County of St Lawrence State of New York, and as Capt James Theodorus has resided but a short time, there is

general report as he felt about his service in the revolutionary war Sam l Ward
Personally appeared before me the undersigned a Justice of the peace for St Lawrence County, Samuel Ward personally well known to me, and reputed a person of truth, and subscribed and swore to the above Statement this 2 d day of July 1833 R.S. Day J.P.
State of New York St Lawrence County
Samuel Ward residing in the Town of Massena County of St Lawrence and State of New York being duly sworn do testify and declare, that in the Spring of the year 1776, then resi- -ding in the Town of Ashford in the County of Windham and State of Connecticut I enlisted in Capt. Mavys company, Col. Cletus regiments, march- ed to New York City, and about the last

of August was Col. Cheetham, Col. Ward, and Col. Sergeant's regiments were stationed at Westchester in the State of New York and united into one brigade, that I was well acquainted with Col. James Stewart having served in his company the winter of '60. That Col. James Stewart commanded a company in Col. Ward's regiment. That Col. Ward and Col. Cheetham's regi- ments were together until the 1st of December, during all which time Col. James Stewart commanded a company in Col. Ward's regiment and was informed by those of his com- pany that he had commanded a com- pany in said regiment previous to it was disbanded in the spring until August when I was known personally to his service. Sam. Ward
Personally appeared before me Samuel Ward, being personally known to me and reported a person of truth, and being duly sworn attested to the truth of the facts contained in the foregoing affidavit.
Subscribed and sworn to this 2 d day of July A.D. 1833 before me.
R.S. Day J. P.

State of New York St Lawrence County, ss
J. Alvin Olson
Clerk of the said County, do hereby certify that Robert S. Day, before whom the foregoing affidavit purports to have been sworn to, was at the date of the same a justice of the Peace in for said County, duly stated & sworn and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Robert S. Day, believe that his name subscribed to the said affidavit to be his proper hand writing & Signature. In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal of office this 31 st day of July 1833
J. Alvin Clerk
The word "May" erased by me & "July" inserted J. Alvin Clerk

(Signature) Rev Thomas Stedman Massena St Lawrence County New York

The records of the State, show that the General Assembly of the State of Connecticut at their session in May 1776 ordered two regiments to be raised, and to serve one year. Andrew Ward was appointed a Col. of one of them, & John Ripley a Captain therein.
December 2 nd 1833.
E. Phelps
Comptrollers Office
December 2 nd 1833.
I Elisha Phelps, Comptroller of Public Accounts of the State of Connecticut, do certify, that it appears by the journal of the Council of Safety, under date June 27 th 1776, that that board appointed " Captain James Steadman appointed Captain instead of Captain Ripley promoted "
(By the State records it appears that the General Assembly in June 1776 ordered

seven battalions to be raised for continental service at New York and to serve until the 25 th of December 1776, and appointed John Ripley a Major of one of them)
I also certify, that there is charged on the books of the Pay Table, to the United States, under date June 29 th 1776, viz, "Capt. James Stedman, Col. Ward's Regiment, D r To order on Treasurer in account for his company $172, 0, 0" & that the above account was balanced, by charging that amount to the account of Royal Fleet Pay Master of Col. Ward's regiment.
C. Phelps.

Sir
I send you a copy of the only evidence of your appointment that probably exists - it remains on the journal of the Council of Safety. The Commissioners of Pensions does not require any other proof of appointments made by the Council of Safety, than my certificate. The preceding is in the usual form.
You will perceive that the examination has been laborious; for I have resorted to the records of State the State, the journal of the Council of Safety, & the books &c. of the Pay Table. Such labor is not within my official duty. If you should be successful in your appointment, of which no doubt exists, some remuneration will be expected. Yours very respectfully
E. Sheldon

The records of the State, shews that the General Assembly of the State of Connecticut at their Session in May 1776 ordered two regiments to be raised and to serve one year. Andrew Ward was appointed a colonel of one of them & John Ripley a captain thru' E Phelps
December 2 d 1833.
Comptrollers Office
December 2 d 1833
I Elisha Phelps Comptroller of Public accounts of the State of Connecticut, do certify that it appears by the journal of the Council of Safety under date June 27 th 1776, that the board appointed captain James Stedman, appointed captain instead of captain Ripley, promoted (By the State records it appears that the General Assembly in June 1776 ordered seven battalions to be raised for continental service at New York and to serve until the 25 th December 1776 and appointed John Ripley a Major of one of them)
I also certify that there is charged on the books of the Pay Table to the United States under date June 29 th 1776 viz "Capt James Stedman, Col. Ward's Regiment In It's order on Treasurer in account (over

for his company £172. 0. 0" and that the above account was balanced by charging that amount to the account of Royal Flint Paymaster of Col Wards regiment
E Phelps
Sir
I send you a copy of the only evidence of your appointment that probably exists it remains on the journal of the Commie of Safety. The Commissioner of Pensions does not require any other proof of appointment made by the Commie of Safety than my certificate. The preceding is in the usual form
You will perceive that the examination has been laborious; for I have resorted to the records of State, the State, the journal of the Commie of Safety and the books &c of the Pay Table. Such labor is not within my official duty. If you should be successful in your application of which no doubt exists, some remuneration will be expected
Yours Very respectfully E Phelps

Hon ble Sir
I have written to the Controller in Connecticut and have enclosed his answer, the commission I received in the militia was before the the revolutionary War commenced and I did not suppose it necessary or any way helpful to prove my service in the Army. if it is needfull I presume I can prove that I was appointed a captain before the war by the certificate of the Controller. I have heard a rumour that the character of Nathan Hovey was suspected not to be good or that some improper course was taken, in procuring his affidavit. I was in the State of Ohio when it was taken, and knew nothing about it for several weeks after. I have not seen Hovey for several years, his character was formerly good and I know his statement of my service the first summer of the war is correct. Any communication to me I wish directed to me at Fort Covington, Franklin County State of New York
Yours Respectfully James Stedman

Colonel Ward's regiment. - I said that Holt several years since obtained a full pension under the old for his service in Col. Ward's regiment and Joseph Ashley has, as I am informed obtained a pension under the new law equal or in proportion to eleven months service all per- formed in Col. Ward's regiment. I think I am justly intitled to a full pension as the proofs are more full than many who have received pensions, but there appears no objections to allow me for the whole term of service in Ward's regiment which was actually ten months and eighteen days.
I am anxious to have this business closed as soon as may be and wish you to write to Thomas Stedman, Wapena, St Lawrence county and inform him of the result, and if any grant is made I wish it may be forwarded to Fort Covington Franklin county. I have calculated to go to Connecticut if able. Should I go, if you write to him he can send here and forward the certificate to me. Sorry to occupy so much of your time, but wished you to have a particular history of the subject
Yours Respectfully James Stedman

4 Fort Covington, Franklin Co New York May 25 th 1834
Sir
I received a letter from J. L. Edwards, Commissioner of Pensions in which I apprehend there is a mistake. It is stated that Col o Ward's regiment was discharged 25 December 1776 when I am very certain Col o Ward's regiment served through the winter of 1777 in the State of New Jersey and discharged in the town of Newark in the State of New Jersey on the 15 th day of May 1777 and two affidavits now I expect are in the pension office by Joseph Ashley and Jonathan Hott. Ashley was in my company and Hott in Col o Ward's regiment, both state the regiment of Col o Ward was discharged the middle of May 1777, these affidavits were taken on the application of Thomas Stedman and his application was numbered from 12600 to 14604 and I could wish that those affidavits might be referred to and that the papers and documents relative to the service of Col o Ward's regiment and the time when it was discharged might be re-examined and I am in the full belief that it will appear that this regiment
(over)

of Colonel Ward was not discharged until May 15 th 1877 and that I served in that regiment between ten & eleven months and am entitled to a pension at least for that time
I have arrived almost and very infirm and poor without ninety years of age, and cannot expect to remain here but a short time, and whatever I am entitled to I want soon. I request you would examine the affidavits I have referred to and examine the files and documents relating to the time when Col Ward's regiment was discharged and grant me whatever I am entitled to from the proof and papers now in the war office. A smaller sum will be better for me now than a larger hereafter
Yours Respectfully James Steadman
Fort Covington (Franklin Co) May 28 th 1884
Sir
Having lately come into this county and finding that you represented this District in Congress, and although a stranger, yet I have written to request your assistance relative to my pension, and will (over)

make you ample compensation. In January 1833 residing in Platts- burg I forwarded a petition stating that before the war broke out I commanded a company in the Militia in the State of Connecticut and as soon as the news of the battle of Lexington reached us I marched my company to Cam- bridge by order of Governor Trumbull and remained in the service about three months, that in January 1776 a call was made on the mili- tia, I again volunteered and served in Col Douglass' regiment, and served three months. In June 1776 I was appointed a captain in the Connecticut line, in Col Ward's regi- ment and served until 15 th May 1777 nearly eleven months. I was out two tours after this about eight months and I forwarded one or two vouchers for the three first services and some proof relative to the two last. I also stated that my commission and all my papers relative to my services were burnt a few years after the conclusion of the war. In October 1834 I received a letter from the Pensions office informing me that it was expedient for me to procure a cer- tificate from the Comptroller of the State of Connecticut relative to my appointment in the Connecticut (over)

line in Col Ward's regiment. I wrote to Mr Phelps the Controller, and received a certificate from him relative to my appointment which I enclosed to the War Department in December last and this week I received another letter stating that it was necessary that I should obtain from the Comptroller a certificate of the Service of the Troops from Connecticut who served near Boston in 1775 and 1776 and stating that Colonel Ward's regiment was discharged on the 25 th day of December 1776 when in fact Col Ward's regiment served through the winter of 1777 in the State of New Jersey, and in the month of March the regiment was inoculated for the Small Pox being stationed in the town of Chatham not far from Washington's headquarters, and were marched to Newark the last of March and there discharged the 15 th of May. Relative to the two last tours of about eight months nothing is stated in the letter from the Pensions Office: and at the close says "five months and twenty eight days service can be allowed". I have arrived almost to the age of Ninety, am quite infirm, and as more proof is required in every instance  over

stage of the business I have become discouraged about applying to the Comptroller office, for these delays will probably continue till my life is closed and the pension of no benefit to me.
I have written to the War Department, referring to some proof in the office that I think will shew that Ward's regiment was not discharged until the 15 th May 1777. Joseph Ashley who was in my company and Jonas than Holt who was in Ward's regiment made each an affidavit in the application of Thomas Stedman for a pension; they both stated that they enlisted in June 1776 and served in Ward's regiment until May 15 th 1777. you will find these affidavits among the papers of Thomas Stedman on file in the pension Office and when they were received were numbered from 14,600 to 14,604 not certain which but within these two numbers, and Thomas Stedman in his application for a pension has under oath stated that Ward's regiment were discharged in May 15 th 1777 and has made an affidavit in my case to the same effect and I expect the mistake relative to the time of the discharge of the Regiment might arise from Col Ward himself obtained a discharge on account  (over)

9 of bad health I believe late in the fall or beginning of winter. The papers of Thomas Stedman were numbered as stated above but his certificate is numbered 28,525 I expect the applications were numbered as they were received, and the certificates were numbered as they were issued. I stated to the war department my circumstance relative to my age and infirmity and wished the business closed as a smaller sum now might be better for me than a larger hereafter. I wish you would attend to this subject particularly relative to the time of the discharge of Col. Ward's regiment. Jonathan Scott several years since obtained a full pension under the old law for his service in Col. Ward's regiment and Joseph Ashley has as I am informed obtained a pension under the new law equal or in proportion to eleven months service all performed in Col. Ward's regiment. I think I am justly entitled to a full pension as the proofs are more full than many who have received pensions, but there appears no objection to allow me for the whole term of service in Ward's regiment which was actually ten months and eighteen days. I am anxious to have this over

business closed as soon as may be and wish you to write to Thomas Stedman Mapena, St Lawrence County and inform him of the result, and if any grant is made I wish it may be forwarded to Fort Covington Franklin County. I have calculated to go to Connecticut if able. Should I go, if you write to him he can send him and forward the certificate to me. Sorry to occupy so much of your time but wished you to have a particular history of the subject.
Yours Respectfully James Stedman
House of Representatives June 14 th 1834
Sir
I send you herewith a letter from Mr James Stedman on the subject of his pension. By it he seems to have time enough allowed him into two days to give him a pension. In this letter he refers to testimony in the office which you looked at a few days since and of course can again examine readily which will clearly establish time enough to give him a pension for some amount at least. Please look at it and write me your conclusions over

after so doing.
A long time since I called to have the pension of a Mr. Manapah Sawyer looked up and acted upon. He had returned his original certificate. His papers were not then to be found. I hope you will look them up so that they can be considered before the adjournment.
Your Ab t Servant R. H. Gileas
D. S. Edwards Esq
West Gerington June 20 th 1834
Sir
I received a communication from the Pension Office that I could be allowed a pension for ten months and eighteen days as a Captain and no more without further proof. I have no proof without sending to the Comptroller of the State of Connecticut, and my age and infirmities are such that I have concluded to accept of the pension for the term of ten months and eighteen days service as the probability at present is that my over

further delay would, would place me beyond the reach of deriving any benefit from a pension or any thing thing else in this world
Yours Respectfully James Stedman
Direct to Thomas Stedman Wapena St Lawrence County N York

The within pages, numbered from 1 to 12 inclusive, contain copies of letters in the case of James Stedman, the originals of which were sent on the 1 st . September 1837, to N. S. Benton Esq. U.S. District Attorney, Little Falls, N.Y.

Aug 19 N.Y.
Fre
James L. Edwards Esq. Comr of Pensions Washington,

Plattsburgh, August 9. 1837
James. I. Edwards Esqr
Dear Sir,
Having just returned from the Town of Massena, St Lawrence County, where I have been in company with George. W. Beckwith Esqr. of this Village for the purpose of apprehending Thomas. Stedman for a forgery of papers on the Pension Office, I proceed to give you a detail of the circumstances connected with the transaction
On the 8 th July last past, I was called upon to make out the usual power of Attorney for drawing the 6 mos pension money of a man styling himself "Capt. James. Stedman" & produced a Certificate entitling him to $22.00 a year, under the act of the 7 th June 1832. He was referred to me by Mr Beckwith the gentleman before mentioned, who had usually before drawing his pension, but on this occasion referred him to me, He not having at that time any blanks & I being a Justice & prepared with them - I made out the power & sent it to Albany & drew the money through a Mr Burt, one of the proprietors of the Enquirer -
This person calling himself Capt. James Stedman & residing in Montreal, said He had a Son Thomas. Stedman, residing at Massena, to whom He wished the money sent when recd by me, as He should be there on a visit at that time & I advanced him $20.00 at the time I drew the papers & on receiving the money from Albany sent him $2.00 (being the amt going to him after deducting my charges & the $20.00 advanced,) by my wife who happened to be going into that vicinity

on a visit - at Norfolk, some 10 or 12 miles from Wassena, the money was handed to a Mr Minor who was formerly a Merchant at Wassena and intimately acquainted with the Stedman family.
He said knew it must be wrong as Capt James Stedman had been dead 40 years and that Thomas Stedman, was a very old & infirm man, who had from a state of extreme poverty, been suddenly placed in easy circumstances - On Mr Minor's making these facts known to a Mr Norman Packrida, P.M. at Norfolk, (a Bro in Law of mine) He immediately wrote me and on the 4th Inst Mrs Beckwith & myself set out for Norfolk, which place We reached on the 5th & taking with us Mr Packrida (who consented to act as Constable) & a Magistrate, named Phineas Atwater, We proceeded to Wassena & arrested Thomas Stedman, whom We knew at once to be the same person who had imposed himself upon us as Capt James Stedman. He has been committed to Jail at Canton - a notice of the proceedings will be sent you by Esqr Atwater, whose promptitude in granting a process & aiding us person- -ally as well as Mr Packrida is worthy of praise.
It seems that Thos Stedman is 75 years old and has drawn in the name of Thos Stedman a pension of some thirty dollars a year. He was it is said a waiter to his father James Stedman in the revolution he has borne a bad character in his neighborhood formerly for honesty & his arrest did not there create a very great degree of surprise -
I received on the pension power after paying the notary fees & Mrs Burt's trouble $105.00
Advances of Stedman 20.00 $85.00
Postage .56
Leaving in my hands $84.44 (saying nothing about my fees)

The expenses of Mr Beckwith & myself have been as follows -
Use of our 2 horses 2 days at 10/- 4.00 Paid for extra horses 5.00 Wagon 4 days 2.00 Our expenses on the route 11.65 4 days time each at $3.00 24.00 $46.65
This amt We think should be allowed us. We started off from a sense of what we owed our country as well as ourselves & think We should be allowed to deduct the above amt from the money in my hands, but if it cannot be allowed consistently with the regulations We will lose our own time but shall expect to have pay at least for our expenses - Mr Beckwith, who is an Attorney of this village, will also write you on this subj. He & his partner having assisted him until the last time in drawing his pension -
Very Respectfully Yours &c
George Moore
P. S. I would suggest to you the sending a copy of the papers on which the S d Stedman certificate was granted to Mr Packrida, the P.M. at Norfolk, that He may ascertain whether other persons have been concerned in the fraud in that vicinity
G. M.

(copy)
Capt. James Stedman
1837
In a/c. with A.C. & G. Moore
600
July 17. By cash rec d in Albany after deducting
Notary's fees. (2/.)
$105.75
Dr.
July 8. To cash advanced you to be repaid out of pension
$20.00
Postage on letter and pension drawn to Albany
.38
do " return letter
.19
Our Services
0.18
23.75
$82.00
E. E.
(Signed) A C & G. Moore
(copy)
The enclosed eighty two dollars is for Capt. Jas. Stedman a revolutionary pensioner who has a son residing at Mapes, Rocket River P.O.
The money can be paid to the Son Thomas Stedman if the Capt. should not be there taking a receipt for the same -
[Under this memorandum upon the same paper is the following]
Rec d of A C & G. Moore, eighty two dollars being with twenty dollars rec d of them on the 8th inst. the net proceeds of my pension drawn down by them for the 6 mos ending March 10th 1837 - Mapes. (St. L. Co.) July 1837
(over)

N. 73. The Messrs Moore are supposed by me to be merchants residing at Plattsburgh, Clinton County, New York. The account is on a separate piece of paper. The rem. is supposed to have been a direction from them to their friend Sackride named in my letter, to whom the money was sent to be paid over, and the receipt such are one as they wanted when payment should be made.
Mr. Sackride is related by marriage to the Moore family, and Mr. Merin tells me these papers, and the money was brought to him by Mrs. Moore the wife of one of the sons; that he saw and talked with the lady and she stated that an old man had been in the habit of coming to Plattsburgh to get the papers prepared to draw their pension; that he called his name James Stedman, the pensioner, represented his residence to be in Canada and said he had a son residing in Massena in this County. This person is suspected and believed by Mr. Merin to be the son Thomas Stedman himself. S. Wright Jr.

Govt Loring to Franklin County
May 28 th 1834
Sir, Having lately come into this county and finding that you represented this district in Congress, and altho a stranger, yet I have written to request your assistance relative to my pension, and will make you ample compensation. In January 1833 residing in Plattsmouth I forwarded a petition, stating that before the war broke out I commanded a company in the Militia in the State of Connecticut, and as soon as the news of the battle at Lexington reached us I marched my company to Cambridge by Order of Governor Green, and remained in the service about three months, that in January 1776 a call was made on the Militia, I again volunteered and served in Col o Douglass' regiment, and served three months. In June 1776 I was appointed a captain in the Connecticut line in Col o Wadsworth's regiment, and served until May 14 th 1778 nearly eleven months. I was out two tours after this about eight months, and I forwarded one or two requests for the three full services, also stated that my commissions, and all my papers relative to my services were burnt a few years after the conclusion of the war. In October 1834 I rec d a letter from the pension office, informing me that it was expedient for me to procure a certificate from the Comptroller of the State of Connecticut relative to my appointment in the Connecticut line in Col o Wadsworth's regiment. I wrote on to Mr o Phelps the Comptroller, and

received a certificate from him, relative to my appointment, which I enclosed to the war department in December last, and this week I rec d . another letter, stating that it was necessary that I should obtain from the Comptroller a certificate of the service of the Troops from Connecticut who served near Boston in 1775 & 1776, and stating that Col d Ward's regiment was discharged on the 29 th day of December 1775, when in fact Col d Ward's regiment served through the winter of 1777 in the State of New Jersey, and in the month of March the regiment was encamped for the Small Pox being stationed in the town of Chatham, not far from Morristown. Gen l Washington's headquarters, and were marched to Newark the last of March, and there discharged the 15 th of May - relative to the two last years of above eight months, nothing is stated in the letter from the Pension Office, and at the close, says "five months and twenty eight days service can be allowed," I have arrived almost to the age of Ninety, am quite in firm, and as more proof is required in every successive stage of the business, I have become discouraged about applying to the Comptroller's Office, for these delays will probably continue till my life is closed, and the pension of no benefit to me -
I have written to the War department referring to some proofs in the Office, that I think will show that Ward's regiment was not discharged until the 12 th of May 1777 - Joseph Asbley, who was in my

Company and Jonathan Holt who was in Ward's regiment, made each an affidavit on the application of Thomas Stedman for a pension, they both stated that they enlisted in June 1776, and served in Ward's regiment un- -till May 19 th 1777, you will find these affida- -vits among the papers of Thomas Stedman on file in the pension office, and when they were received, were numbered from 14,600, to 14,604 not certain which but within these two numbers, and Thomas Stedman in his application for a pension has underneath stated that Ward's regiment were discharged May 14 th 1777, and has made an affidavit in my case to the same effect - and I expect the mistake relative to the time of the discharge of the Regiment, might arise from Col. Ward himself obtained a discharge on account of bad health I believe late in the fall or begin- -ning of Winter - The papers of Thomas Stedman were numbered as stated above but his certificate is numbered 25 28 & 25 - I expect the applications were number- -ed as they were received, and the certificates were numbered as they were received issued - I stated to the war department my circumstan- -relative to my age and infirmity, and wished the business closed, as a smaller sum now might be better for me than a larger hereafter - I wish you would attend to this subject parti- -cularly relative to the time of the discharge of

Col. 5 Ward's regiment - Jonathan Holt several years since obtained a full pension under the old law for his services in Col. 5 Ward's regiment, and Joseph Ashley has obtained a pension under the new law equal to or in proportion to eleven months service in all performed in Col. 5 Ward's regiment - I think Sam Jettis entitled to a full pension as the proofs are more full than many who have received pensions, but there appears no objection to allow me for the whole term of service in Ward's regiment, which was actually ten months and eighteen days -
I am anxious to have this business closed as soon as may be, and wish you to write to Thomas Stedman Napauc St Lawrence County and inform him of the result, and if any grant is made I wish it may be forwarded to Fort-Livingston Franklin County, I have calculated to go to Connecticut if able - Should I go, if you write to him, he can send here and forward the certificate to me - sorry to occupy so much of your time, but wished you to have a particular history of the subject Yours respectfully James Stedman

I hereby Certify, that the accompanying pages numbered from One to Seventy One inclusive are truly copied from the originals in the Pension Office.
J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions.
Be it Remembered, that JAMES L. EDWARDS, who has signed the foregoing certificate, is Commissioner of Pensions; and that to his attestations full faith and credit are and ought to be given. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name, and caused the seal of the Department to be affixed, on this 1 st day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-Seven.
Secretary of War.

77
||||||| 3
10.18
3-|||||
10 Mo 18 day
Free
Mapen... Jan 11 th
and under... Thos. H. ... Member of ...
Genl Lewis Cass Secretary of War
City of Washington
James Stehman additional ...
Concurrence Office
Jan 21 1834

Hon. Sir  I have written to the Controller in Connecticut, and have enclosed his answer. The commission I received in the Militia was before the revolutionary war commenced and I did not suppose it necessary or any way helpful to prove my services in the Army, if it is needfull I presume I can prove that I was appointed a Captain before the war by the certificate of the Controller. I have heard a rumour that the character of Nathan Hovey was suspected not to be good, or that some improper course was taken in procuring it. his affidavit I was in the state of Ohio when it was taken, and knew nothing about it for several weeks after. I have not seen N. Hovey for several years, his character was formerly good, and I know his statement of my services the first summer of the war is correct. Any communication to me I wish directed to me at Fort Covington Franklin County State of New York.
Yours Respectfully
James Stephens

Massena June 28
Free
Hon ble Lewis Cass
Secretary of War
Washington
Virginia
James Buchanan -
Paymaster
Public Office
July 9 1834
MS

7 Sir 7 Foot Haven ton June 20 th 1834
I received a communication from the Pension Office, that I could be allowed a pension for ten months and eighteen days, as a captain, and no more without further proof. I have no proof without sending to the comptroller of the state of Connecticut, and my age and infirmities are such, that I have concluded to accept of the pension for the seven months and eighteen days service, as the probability at present is, that any further delay, would would place me beyond the reach of deriving any benefit from a pension, as any thing else in this world
Yours respectfully
James Sedgwick
Direct to Thomas Sedgwick
Mapusa St Lawrence County N.Y.

Yours sincerely & affectionately your loving sister Mary
Mr Benjamin Phillips of Macon, called at this office this morning, and informed me that you had lately received a sum of money (about $80) which you was instructed to pay to Capt. James H. Dyer of Macon, or his son Thomas, the owner of that place. Mr Phillips understands that it was money received at this Agency in payment of the portion of James H. Dyer's money, and as he does not know anything of the son Thomas, and has an unfavorable opinion of the character of Thomas H. Dyer, he thinks there is something fraudulent in the business.
On the 13 th inst. we paid to Thomas Mr Buck the of this City (a very respectable gentleman, owner of the Advertiser of the Argus) the sum of five hundred dollars, $500 — From whom Mr. Buck re- ceived the papers we have not heard —
At the suggestion of Mr Phillips I take the liberty to request you to inform me what you know in relation to the money, and also the character of Thomas Stearns - and whether you know such a person as James Stearns - where he resides - his age - and such other particulars as you may think proper -

It appears by our Books, that Thomas Steadman is himself a Revolutionary Pensioner, and Mr. Phillips states that he is about 80 years of age - If so, it can hardly be possible that his Father is still living - I am Thos. W. Clarke Postmaster P.O. Box 100 Lynchburg
P.S. Mr. Burt informs me that he received the papers on which we find him James Steadman's father father A.B. Moore of Plattsburg
To Ebenezer Munsell Esq. Canton - St. Lawrence Co. N.Y. I should be still obliged to you for information as to whether or not I have not received a copy of the last will and testament of my father which was dated in the year 1840 and was witnessed by me and others and was deposited in the hands of the late Mr. Burt of Plattsburg and which I should have received if I had not been informed that it was lost

James Stutman
Perfian Office
Huntington NY 26 Feby 1854. 3
Rev. S. L. ... 1854
Hon ble Lewis Cass Secretary of War Washington

Fort Covington Franklin County New York May 25 th 1834
Sir. I rec d a letter from J. L. Edwards, Commissioner of Pensions, in which I apprehend there is a mistake, It is stated that Col o Ward's regiment was discharged 25 th December 1776, when I am very cer- -tain Col o Ward's regiment proved through the winter of 1777 in the State of New York the town of Newark in the State of New Jersey on the 15 th day of May 1777, and two affidavits now I expect are in the Pension Office (viz) Joseph Ashley, and Jonathan Holt Ashley was in my Company, and Holt in Col o Ward's regiment, both state the regiment of Col o Ward was discharged the middle of May 1777 these affidavits were taken on the application of Thomas Stedman, and his application was num- -bered from 14,600 to 14,604, and I could

with that those affidavits might be referred to me and that the papers and documents rela- tive to the service of Col. Ward's regiment and the time when it was discharged might be re-examined, and I am in the full belief that it will appear that the regiment of Col. Ward was not dischar- ged until May 15 th 1877, and that I ser- ved in that regiment between Ten Eleve months, and am entitled to a pension at least for that time -
I have served almost to ninety years of age, am very infirm, and poor withal and cannot expect to remain here but a short time, and whatever I am entitled to I want soon. I request you would exa- -mine the affidavits I have referred to - and examine the files and documents rela- -ting to the time when Col. Ward's regi- -ment was discharged, and grant me what -ever I am entitled to from the proof and papers now in the war office - A smaller sum will be better for me now than a larger hereafter
Yours respectfully James H. Newman

House of Reps. June 14. 1874
Sir,
I send you herewith a letter from Mr James Steadman on the subject of his pension. By it, he seems to have time enough allowed him, into two days to give him a pension. In this letter he refers to testimony in the office, which you looked at a few days since & of course can again examine readily, which will clearly establish time enough to give him a pension, for some amount at least! Please look at it & write me your conclusion after so doing.
A long time since I called upon the papers of a Mr Manafah Sawyer looked up & acted upon. He had returned his original certificate. His papers were not then to be found. I hope you will look them up so that they can be considered before the adjournment. Yours & Mr. Scott R. A. Gillit J. L. Edmond
come 27 ap. 34 & sent to Messrs Allen & Baldwin

NEW 7 PORTSMOUTH COM - 5th mar my 2nd
FREE
James L. Edwards Esq. Com d of Pension Washington City -

Plattsburgh, Nov 1. 1838 To J. L. Edwards Esqr Dr Sir,
I should be happy to hear from you and know to whom I am to pay the pension money now in my hands received of the Pension Agency, for Stephen (who is now dead)
The balance in my hands as per my letter to you of August 9. 1837 is $37.79, which amt I am ready to pay over to any one, authorized to receive it.
I shall be much obliged by your directing me where to pay the money.
Very Respectfully
Yours &c
George Moore

(Private)
Canton 27 July 1837
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Commissioner of Pensions,
Dear Sir,
A representation has been made to me this day that a fraud exists, or is supposed to exist, in reference to a pension in this vicinity. The Pension is that of James Steedman, a Captain in the army of the Revolution. I am assured that Captain James Steedman has been dead for more than forty years and it is supposed that this pension has been in some way obtained and is now drawn by a son of his residing in the Town of Massena in this County by the name of Thomas Steedman. It is said the pension was first obtained in 1834 or 5 and is $212, per annum, or about that sum, and the supposition is that the papers were not made in this vicinity, but in some remote County, perhaps Clinton in this state and that the son Thomas must have personated the father on that occasion and continues to do so in the semi-annual drafts. My informant is a Mr. Ebenezer Miller, formerly of Massena in this County and now residing in this Town. He is a very respectable citizen and a merchant, and tells me that Thomas Steedman draws a pension of $30. per annum; that you wrote him in 1833, making inquiries as to Thomas Steedman and the witnesses who testified in his case; that he made all the inquiries in his power and wrote you in answer to your call upon him; that the result was the

allowance of a pension of $30; that he often acted as the attorney in making the papers and drawing this pension; that Thomas Stedman was then very poor and so poor that for some time he could not afford even to pay him for making his papers and transacting his business; that suddenly, as he thinks some time in the year 1835, he was found to have money in plenty to pay his debts and to purchase a small farm for which he paid $400. in hand and the title to which was given to two maiden daughters who lived with him; that from that time he has regularly, half yearly, been very flush with money but that the source from which he derived it has remained an entire mystery in his neighborhood; that it has always been reported by him (Thomas Stedman) among his neighbors in the Town of Maspeu that his father Capt. James Stedman died when he was about eighteen years of age; that he had accidentally placed in his hands, when on a visit to Maspeu, a few days since, papers of which the following are copies; that he supposes these papers explain the mystery of Thomas Stedman's becoming so suddenly full of money in 1835; that the $82. mentioned in the account and receipt was in the hands of a friend, Mr. Norman Sackride, a merchant of the Town of Norfolk in this County to be paid as directed in the papers; that he requested Mr. Sackride to retain the money and he consented to do so until you could be addressed upon the subject, and that this his application to me has arisen out of these circumstances. Mr. Minin is unable to tell any thing of the history of Capt. James Stedman or of his revolutionary services, or upon what pension roll his name is to be found. Of these facts and an examination of the case

shall induce you to suppose that any thing ought to be done further in the matter, will you be good enough to address me, or Mr. Menie, at this place with as little delay as possible, as the retention of this $82. may cause trouble to Mr. Lockridge, or Mr. Menie, or both, and what may be more unfortunate may convey suspicion to Thomas Stedman and enable him to escape if he has been practising fraud.
I am very Respectfully Your obedt. Servt. Silas Wright Jr.

Meek & Harris Bank Albany Pension Agency Augt. 7. 1837.
James L. Edwards Esq. Comm'r of Pensions Sir,
Your letter of the 3 d inst. respecting the cases of James Stedman & Thomas Stedman, is received. We had previously received information which had induced us to believe that James Stedman's pen- -sion had been fraudulently obtained, and had taken measures to obtain further information on the subject, as you will see by the enclosed copy of a letter addressed to Ebenezer Main Esq. of Castleton, St. Lawrence County.
I was awaiting his reply in order to communicate to you the information that might be obtained through that source. Not having received an answer from Mr. Main, I presume he has written directly to you in relation to the business - I shall be happy to render any assistance in my power in detecting the fraud -
Very Respectfully Yrs. ob't Serv't
Thos. W. D. Scott Prost. W. in ad

J. L. Edwards Esq. Corr. Pension Washington

U.S. District Attorney's office Little Falls N.Y. 27 th 1839
Sir
I have ascertained to my satisfaction that Thomas Stedman late of St. Lawrence County in this District against whom several bills of indictment for perjury and forgery were found by the Grand Jury of this District at the October Term of the United States Circuit Court 1837 did a short time previous to the last June Term of the United States Circuit Court for this District, the time fixed by the said Court for the trial of the said indictments. I am also informed that said Stedman did not leave any property.
As I have no further use for the inclosed papers - An original declaration made under the act of June 7 th 1832 for the purpose of obtaining a pension in the name of James Stedman and several affidavits and letters relating thereto, also the vouchers upon which the pension of James Stedman was paid, these vouchers comprising the whole amount paid in that case from the 4 th day of March 1831 to the 4 th day of September 1836, I return the same to you to be placed on the files of the proper office in the War & Treasury Departments. Will you do me the favor to acknowledge the receipt of these papers.
I am very respectfully your obedt Servt N. S. Benton U.S. Atty
J. L. Edwards Esqr. Commr. of Pensions Washington City.

Aug 30.
FREE
J. L. Edwards Esqr. Commr. of Pensions Washington City

U.S. District Attorney's office Little Falls, August 28 th 1837.
Sir I have this day received information from Bishop Perkins Esq. the State District Attorney for the County of St. Lawrence stating that a man by the name of Morris Studman had been committed to jail in his County for perjury and committed in receiving to some pension papers - From the information I have I suppose he has subscribed and known to papers by the name of James Studman - If the Department desires to learn this man proceeded against for the crime he is charged with you will have the goodness to forward to me the perjury papers and I think I should be furnished with the affidavits and powers of attorney known to & executed by said Studman when he drew his half yearly payments.
I am with great Respect your obedt servt
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions
N. S. Walton U.S. Atty

James Sedman Sept 16-
N.Y. Sept 16. Agassiz
Mrs L Edwams Ag. Cincinnati of Penna Washington

Mechanics Bank New York Sept r 12 1834
Sir
I Enclose for your examination a Paper in the case of James Steedman a Captain at $212 p r annum residing in Lower Canada.
Edward Thompson, the payment of whose Pension was directed to be suspended in your letter of the 5 th Inst y is deceased and the balance of his Pension was paid on the 28 th of July last.
Thomas Thomson whose Pension was directed to be suspended in yours of the 9 th Inst y was paid on the 10 th Inst y being the day previous to the receipt of your Letter.
I am Very respectfully
Sir Your ob t Serv t
W m Fleming Presd t of Com y .
Jane L. Edwards Esq r Commissioner of Pensions.

carded 28898
Pay INVALID.
File No. 28,898 ❁
James Stedman
Capt Rev War
Act: June 7 th 39 th
Index:—Vol. 2 , Page 395
[Arrangement of 1870.]
❁ See claim of son Thomas Stedman Sur. File V7121 - who impersonated his father James and fraudulently obtain this pension

Feb. 19/98. Miss. C. Mott Ball - Newport R. I. (on Mid. 122-125)

New York James Steadman
Suspended Let. 26 Oct. '33 to J. Steadman
See Letter to Thos. Steadman 12. May 1834 Let to Do June 6 '34 " to Hon R. H. Gillet June 20 '34 Act. June 1834