Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 42663, for Michael G Kuraw, New York

SERVICE
NUMBER
New York
Kuraw, Michael G. or Kurau
S. 42663
CONTENTS

19.856
New York
Correct certificate issued 29 th January 1828, & sent to Reuben Housford Esq. Lexington Heights, N.Y.
Michael G. Housford
of Otsego Co., in the State of New York who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain Gray of the regiment commanded by Colonel Livingston in the New York line, for the term of nine months, from 5 May 1778 to 5 th February 1779
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 8 Dollars per month, to commence on the 20 day of December 1827
Certificate of Pension issued the 4 th of Jan y 1828 and sent to Reuben Housford Esq. Lexington Heights, N.Y.
Arrears to 4th of March, 1828. $24.12 Semi-ann. all ce ending
$24.12
{ Revolutionary Claim, Acts March, 18, 1818, and May 1, 1820.

19,625 Michael J. Kuraw Astoria 6 o N. Y.
Hon: J. Williams, Cooperstown, N.Y.
Rec d 19 Feb. 1825.
Hon. J. Williams H. R. rec d 19 Feb. 1825
Return an Answer to J. B. Isaacs J. B. Isaacs Cooperstown N.Y.

State of New York
Otsego County ss. On this second day of February
1820, personally appeared in open Court being a Court of record for the County aforesaid, Michael G. Moran aged forty nine years, resident in the Town of Unadilla who being first duly sworn, according to law, sets on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the provision made by the acts of Congress of the 18th March 1818 and of the 1st March 1820 - that Peter said Michael G. Moran enlisted for the term of nine months on or before the fifth day of May in the year 1778 in the State of New York in the Company commanded by Lieutenant Gair who acted as captain in said Company, in the Regiment commanded by Col. Livingston in the line of the State of New York on the Continental establishment that he continued to serve in the said Corps until the 5th day of February 1779 when he was discharged from said service in the State of New York by Col. Rorer which discharge states that he had served the full term of time enlisted. That he was in the Battle of Monmouth and that he has no other evidence in his power of his said services except Christopher Blocher and John Smith Jr. who belonged to the said Regiment and are now both pensioners.
And in pursuance of the act of the 18th May 1820, I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March 1818, and that I have not since that time been gift, sold or in any manner disposed of any property or any part thereof with intent thereby to be diminished or to be brought within the provisions of an Act of Congress entitled "an act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States". Paper on the 18th day of March 1818, and that I have not since that time been in trust for any property or securities, contracts or rights due to me nor have I any income other than what is contained in the schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed.
I have no real estate I have two Cows worth $24.00 One note made by John Moran $10.00
I am by occupation a tailor but for want of

Sufficient as right, I am not able to work at any formal occupation I have no family for which I provide. reside with my son John Duran and should be charge me with my board and clothing it would amount to the sum of fifty dollars which would leave me nothing due on my note against him
Sworn and subscribed this 22 nd day of February 1825 in Open Court, William Nichols, Clk
Michael Duran
The Court are of opinion and so affirm the aggregate amount or total value of the property enumerated in the foregoing schedule of Michael Duran at twenty four dollars
Precedians
John Morris Elisha Root Levi H Beach Joshua Babcock
1184
Treasurer of the County of Otsego and Clerk of the Court I do hereby certify that the foregoing is truly copied from the records of said Court and that the Court affirmed the property enumerated in the foregoing schedule at twenty four dollars
The seal of the said Court this 22 nd day of February 1825
William Nichols Clk

State of New York Green County
On the fourth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty seven personally appeared before me Michael J. Kuran of the Town of Windham in the County of Green and State of New York aged seventy two who being by me first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declarations in order to obtain the provision made by the late act of Congress entitled an act to provide for certain persons engaged in the Land and Naval Service of the United States in the Revolutionary War that he the said Michael J. Kuran on the first day of April or on the first day of May in the year one thousand seven hundred and seventy eight at the City of Albany in the County of Albany and State of New York Enlisted a soldier in Captain Silas Gray's Company in Colonel Livingston's Regiment for the Continental New York Line and in the Continental Establishment and that he continued to serve in the said Company and Regiment until the fifth day of February in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty one on which day he received an honorable discharge from Colonel Rensselaer. If he rightly remembers his name as set forth on the Mohawk River in the State of New York. And the said Michael J. Kuran further swears that he is now in reduced circumstances and that he is not worth one Cent on earth other than a personal property save a bed to lie on and his daily clothing and daily stands in need of the aid and assistance of his Country for support. And the said Michael J. Kuran further swears that the reason why he has not made an earlier application to the Board of War for a pension was this that he never knew that there was any provision made by Congress for him until the year 1808 when he was so informed by the Honorable Judah Williams Esquire formerly Member of Congress and on this information he immediately made his application which application has been sent on to the Board of War some years ago. And the said Michael J. Kuran further swears that sometime in the year 1807 or 1808 he purchased a Lease of a parcel of nineteen acres of Land of one Peter Burkite of Middletown in the County of Orange in the aforesaid State being a part of Lot Number thirty five in the Town of Middletown for which he agreed to give him sixty four dollars in the year 1808. In the year 1808 or 9 his eldest son John who was then fourteen and being wanted me to purchase the remainder of the Lot so leased to him. I informed my son replied that if I would go and purchase it that he would set himself out by that means and pay for it himself on these principles I went and purchased the place and agreed to pay for $3.50 per acre in six years there was sixty nine acres of the said Land in addition to this there was nineteen to pay annually and my son went out to work by the month and year and paid for the Land himself after he was twenty five years old except a little paid myself. I afterwards assigned the Lease over to him I owed my son money for laboring for me by the year which I promised to pay them but there was no written contract between us of any name or nature only verbally between father and son and honestly and legally owed them some hundred dollars for their services. They paid more than one hundred dollars to pay my doctor's bill my wife before she died say for more than one year languishing on a sick bed unable to help herself had to be helped out of bed and another and they were the great support of the family the Lease of nineteen acres I assigned over to my other son for his two years labor and that

performed for me after he was of age and thirty dollars that he promised to deliver my wife - My wife was sick for more than four years and they were the only support as I was very old feeble and poor partly blind and a cripple and was not able to do but little to support my family all this I most solemnly swear was not done with any view whatsoever to help me to get a pension difference may be said to the Sears and agreement. And the said Michael J. Sears further swears that after the Settlement application from Mr. Edwards to Hubbardston agreeable to his directions I travelled on my crutches almost blind very old and feeble to Orange County after the copies of the Sears and some other papers all the papers I performed on my feet and crutches in six weeks the said Michael further swears that those papers made mention of the two Edward's letters are not in the possession of either of the two Honorable Justices or Messrs. Hartshorne or Angel as the papers were they say they must have been lost as they have not them and know not what has become of them and the said Michael swears that he does not know where they are but he knows where they were if ever he found them but that he has not them in moving from Orange to Windham. And the said Michael further swears that before he signed over the Sears there was about one hundred and fifty seven dollars of rent due to the Landlord and that he was not able to pay on rent only one three years old House which was valued twelve dollars and there was rent warrants issued for the amount of rent which rent warrants among these proceedings - some years previous to his signing over the Sears there was a perfect understanding between himself and my two sons that it was theirs with no written agreement and on these principles they went on and worked the farm as if it was their own although I lived on the farm and claimed the right to it only to live in the house and had two cows kept on the farm - and further the said Michael swears that the fifty dollars mentioned in the inventory and application for pension he has collected and made the use of the support of his wife family also the two cows have been killed and a trade made of the hide and the hide made mention of it since that time and that it was not dead before my application he says that he is not certain that he made mention of a store as he did not know and it was dead before I heard Michael further swears that the property given on by the rent warrants was the property of his son John who went and paid the amount of the rent due himself and afterwards I signed over the Sears agreeable to our former understanding and the said Michael further swears that if his sons had not gone on and paid for the land and also paid the rent it would have been taken away from him years before as he was not able to pay for it all this the said Michael presents in some shape explanatory of his former proceedings.
and further saith not

State of New York
Green County ss. John Kuraw on his oath deponeth deponeth and saith that at the time his father Michael Kuraw purchased the Land Land he refused to do it saying that he should never be able to pay for it but so it that I requested my father to do it and I would go out to work by the month and year and pay for it myself accordingly and my younger brother went out and worked by the month and year until it was paid altho my brother did not pay as much as myself we also settled the rent, due which was a large amount consisting one three year old Stifer which my father paid and the said John further swears that his father who purchased the Land knowing well that he never should be able to pay for it always said that if my brother was not myself would go on and pay for it they should have it there was nothing in writing about it It and the said John further swears that his father owed him and his brother a large sum of money for some year work and Saloon which he always said that he would pay that there was no written agreement between us only what our father always said he would do if we would work for him and our father has not paid us any thing and we have had to pay for it and pay for the Land ourselves, and the said John further swears that his father has never been in any circumstances since he purcha- sed the Land to pay for it as he is very old and feeble almost blind and a cripple his family has been sick for some years my mother lay sick for something like four years and myself and brother had to do the most of maintaining the

Family are value my self and Brother paid more than an hundred dollars to the physicians who attended my Mother during her sickness together for more than double that amount paid for medicines for the family and the said John further swears that he believes that his father is not worth one cent in life only one box and his very damp apparel that that is all the property he is aware of in life and that he really stands in need of the assistance of his Country for support
Sworn and subscribed this fourth day of December 1817 Before * John H. Hurn
Mr Thomas Benham One of the Commissioners for taking affidavits in order for the County of Green State of New York
I do Certify that I am acquainted with John H. Hurn the above signor will prove himself to be a man of truth and integrity
Thomas Benham Commissioner of affidavits

Sworn and subscribed this fourth day of December in the year 1827
Before me Thomas Benham one of the Commissioners for taking affidavits in and for the County of Greenbale of New York
Michael G. Kanau
Green County ss. I do certify that I am well acquainted with Michael G. Kanau and him to be a very respectable old Gentleman a man of truth and sincerity
Thomas Benham Commissioner as aforesaid

Feb 6-1901 M c L Lucas Edmiston N.Y.
42 663
Rev INVALID.
File No. 42.663
Michael G. Kearan
Rev Rev Rev
Act: 18 th March 18 th
Index:—Vol. 8, Page 120
[Arrangement of 1870.]

to the Suspended Matter, April 28, 1825, to Mr. Williams

42 163
Michael G. Kurano
Feb 7, 1925 - 69 Middlefield N.Y.
May 5, 78. Sings Albany NY St. A. Gray Co. Livingston Dec 9 mos
Monmouth.
Eldest son John
Name of wife not stated no of her or his parents stated. Date of marriage not stated
Place of birth name of wife date of marriage name of parents not stated

Original claim Suspended
See letter to Hon M c G. Angel 16 th Dec r 1825
H. of Reps. To Reuben Haskin Esq. 16 th May 1827.

Wed 24 Dec 1827
19625-
Michael G Kuraw.
N Yk
Got 18 March 1818
Last residence 20 th Decem. 1827
(Faint mirrored text, likely bleed-through from the reverse side of the page)
Alexander Hosford Esq. A.G.
Lexington Heights
N Yk

Sungham Heights, New South Wales, Dec 11/1827 Honorable James Bouskell Esquire - Sir,
See
I parallel to the requisition contained in your written communication to me through the Widow of Mr. Edward, returned to the Claims of Nathan & Kuan. I have received herewith a Compliment the Old Gentleman's very old Informer Sam and almost his whole recommends all these abilities the old gentleman who took the task as it was impossible he could procure it done in any other way he has travelled on his feet assisted by his crutches and almost behind from the Town of Windham in the County of Greene to Middletown in the County of Ulster and performed his journey in six weeks and I think Sir that the Evidence he has obtained will be satisfactory. The Old Gentleman wants Assistance as soon as possible as he now lives upon the Charity of his friends the old Gentleman is as poor and needy as he can be all the property he possesses is Life and an Informer and believe to be true as the best he has in and his every day Clothing which to my certain knowledge is very poor although I think him entitled to better as he appears to me and by information a very respectable Old Gentleman and as his Claims have long been pending will that your Honor give them an early determination as it is considered he desired to receive the next mail I would further add will it be necessary to go through the Court formalities as he has no other property at all I am Sir in haste yours &c
Dear Mother

bed
Seymour Wright Jr. Jan y 16 th 1828
Hon d Sir
I have returned the pension Certificate of Michael J. Kuran I think there is a mistake you will discover that it is made payable on the 20 th day of December next when I expect you want it payable December 1827 If so please to correct it and return it to me as soon as may be
Yours truly Rankin St. John

19.625-
Michael Kuraw, Olsey Co N.Y.
Hon. Rev. J. P. Angel. A. R.
Recd. Dec. 1825
Simon H. ...
Rev. John ...
Jonathan ...
Rev. Dr. ...

Washington City December 12 1825
Sir
In the case of Michael G. Kuraw an applicant for a revolutionary pension I understand notice has been given that his papers now on file are insufficient. He has procured the inclosed affidavits in addition to the papers heretofore presented which I am requested to transmit to your department. When his case shall have been decided I desire to be notified of the result.
Your Obedt Servant.
W. G. Angel
Hon James Barbour Secretary of War

An inventory of the several goods & chattels distrained by me this 13 th 19 th day of Oct. 1816 in the houses and lands of Michael Kuraw situate in the town of Middlefield - by the authority & behalf of John M Bowers for the sum of One hundred & forty seven Dollars & fifty six Cents being balance due to the said John M Bowers on the first day of May last -
In the Barns two moughs of Rye one of the one of Wheat & a quantity of Rye threshed in the house a quantity of Rye & in the field a quantity of Rye -
To Michael Kuraw
Take notice that I have this day distrained on the premises above mentioned in behalf of the said John M Bowers the several goods & chattels specified in the above inventory for the sum One hundred and forty seven Dollars & fifty six Cents - being balance due to the said John M Bowers on the first day of May last for the said premises. And that unless you pay the said rent with the charges of detaining for the same within five days from the date hereof; the said goods & chattels will be appraised and sold according to law -
Given under my hand and seal this nineteenth day of October one thousand eight hundred & sixteen.
Colin Graves

e Michael G. Kurau 843.59

An Inventory of the several Goods and Chattels, dis- trained by me Henry Cory — in the house, out-houses and lands of Michael G. Kurau situate in the town of Madsfield and county of Otago by the authority, and on the behalf of Wm M Bowes for the sum of forty three Dollars & fifty nine cents, for Rent, due to the said Wm M Bowes on the first day of May eighteen hundred & Twenty
Henry Made this fifth day of February Sixteen hundred and twenty one one span of Horses fore hours fore year lings
To Mr Michael G. Kurau
Take Notice, that I have this day distrained as Bailiff to Wm M Bowes your Landlord, on the premises above mentioned, the several Goods and Chattels specified in the above Inventory, for the sum of forty three Dollars and fifty nine cents, being for Balance of Rent due to the said Wm M Bowes on the first day of May last — for the said prem- ises ; and that unless you pay the said rent, with the charges of dis- training for the same within five days from the date hereof, the said Goods and Chattels will be appraised and sold according to law.
Given under my hand and seal the second day of February 18 20
Henry Cory Bailiff

19. 6255 Garrison office May 13 th 1857
Dear Brother Ely,
Secretary of the War Department
City Washington

Green County N.Y. Sept 18
Perinton Heights May 7 th 1827.
Rev James Wm Bee Esq r
Sir
A few days since Mr Michael J.
Knowlton called on me at my Office Informing me that some years since he had made an application to your Honorable Department for a pension for services done in the Revolutionary war, he informed me that his application and schedule of property is now on the file in your Department. He has left with me your letter to W m J. Knowlton  and  Dear William  the former Member of Congress, the applicant now resides in the town of Wintham in this County living within about six miles from me he is a stranger to me I made the acquaintance before this morning I have Dear Thomas Knowlton and others of his neighbors informed me that he is a very poor but intelligent man he has left with me three several affidavits which he has previously sent for to Otego County in obtaining the same I find they have not the Certificate of the County Clerk attached to them under what situation his property was in at the time of purchase and at the time of the assignment of the same I think that the Evidence previously sent into you and the enclosed affidavits will carry convincing proof that the Old Gentleman is perfectly competent in his application and proceedings further understand from him that he has had sent on to you the Copies of the several with the assignments, he further informs that he is so very poor that the testimony may be that he knows of nothing that the Evidence be satisfactory will your Honor write what will be your pleasure by the next mail if convenient I have a Committed in Boston which I must attend to within a week Twenty days and should be glad if I am permitted to receive your Communications previous to my leaving to Boston
I am Sir respectfully
Yours &c
Frederick H. Russell

STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss. GREENE COUNTY, }
I, CHARLES C. ABLE, Clerk of Greene County, do hereby certify, That Thomas M c Denham Esq r _____ whose name is affixed to the within Certificate of Sworn and Certificate of Good Character on the annexed instrument or Affidavit _____ was at the date of the said Certificate a Commissioner of _____ in and for said county, duly commissioned and authorised to make such certificate: And further, that I am acquainted with the handwriting of the said Thomas M c Denham _____ and do verily believe the signature of Thomas M c Denham _____ to be in his proper handwriting.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand and affixed the seal of said County this 21 st day of December 182 7
Chas. C. Able Clerk

W. A. LUCAS FOREIGN & AMERICAN GRANITES EDMESTON N.Y.
Jan 18 - 1901
Capt. Pension
Dear Sir:
Please to send me all the record there is of one John Van Slyke who served in the war of 1812 his place of birth etc also of James Van Slyke Van Slyke and Michael Godfrey Kurn who were in the war of 1776 their place of birth age etc. the maiden names of their wives and where they were born where and when they were married and the names of their parents. This is not to try to get any money from the Pension Dept but is of much importance to me. I want to trace the line to my Great Great Grand Father if possible as there is a large amount of property in this state (New York) at stake so give me the very fullest record possible and send me the bill for making the search and I will remit at once. Michael G. Kurn's wife was in the fort at the time of the massacre and was scalped but recovered. if you have any doubts as to my paying for the search send the bill first and I will remit and then you can make no mail me the Records.
Please to be as prompt as possible
Respect Yours W. A. Lucas

Personally came before me John D er Forest esq r one of the Justices of the Peace of the county of Montgomery Christopher Clouser who States upon oath that Michael G r Kurrau was enlisted in the Revolutionary war in May 1778 and joined the army at Valley Forge under Lieutenant Silas Grey in the 4 th New York Battalion commanded by Col l Livingston belonging to the N. York Line which enlistment was for nine months and that he was discharged at Fort Plank in the State of New York by Colonel Rennele who commanded the said 4 th Battalion at the time of his discharge and which took place some time in the month of February 1779 Sworn and subscribed before me this 23 rd day of January 1824 John D er Forest J.P. Christopher Clouser
Personally came before me John D er Forest esq r one of the Justices of the Peace of the county of Montgomery John Smith 2 nd who States upon oath that Michael G r Kurrau was enlisted in the Revolutionary war in the Month of May 1778 and joined the army at Valley Forge under Lieut. Silas Grey in the 4 th New York Battalion commanded by Colonel Livingston Belonging to the N. York Line which enlistment was for nine months and that he was discharged at Fort Plank in the State of N. York by Colonel Rennele who commanded the said 4 th Battalion at the time of his discharge which took place some time in the month of February 1779 and further says he thinks he was in the Battle of Monmouth Sworn and subscribed before me this 23 rd day of January 1824 John D er Forest J.P. John X Smith 2 nd mark

I Certify that the within named Christoph Clapper is a creditable person and that he is to be believed on oath
John D. Forest
State of New York
Montgomery County ss. I Henry B. Yates Clerk of the said county, do certify that the within named John D. Forest, before whom the within affidavit was taken, was on the twenty third day of Janu- ary, instant, one of the Justices of the Peace of the said county, duly constituted and qualified accor- ding to law, and that faith is due to his official acts. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the seal of the said county, and subscribed the same, with my name, this twenty third day of January, one thousand eight hundred and twenty four. Henry B. Yates Clerk
I Certify that the within named John Smith is a creditable person and that he is to be believed on oath
John D. Forest
Hon. J. Williams (J.M.W.) H. R.

State of New-York, } ss. Otsego County, }
I DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That (Capt. DAVISON Esquire, before whom the annexed, affidavits were taken  was at the time of, taking the same a Justice of the peace in and for said county, dwelling in the said county, duly commissioned and sworn as such. AND FURTHER, That I am acquainted with the hand-writing of the said Justice and verily believe the signature officially set to the annexed affidavit to be his proper hand-writing.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the County aforesaid, the 27th day of Sept. 182 7
Thos. H. Cady Dep. Clerk

Otago County Is
Andrew Skene being duly sworn saith, that he has no interest directly nor indirectly in the present application of Michael G. Skene for a pension, and this deponent further saith that the said Michael G. Skene bought a piece of land situate in the town of Middlefield and county of Otago to the value of Three hundred and Seventy five Dollars to be paid in meat stock or grain and further deponent saith that Michael G. Skene and his son John came to deponents and gave new Notes for the payment of said sum and the lease was given over to Michael G. Skene, that the land was in an uncultivated state an old log house worth little or nothing about fifteen acres cleared on said lot that Bishop Warrants were twice levied upon the land that the old gentleman was almost blind and totally unable to support the family that the Doctors bill amounted to rising of One hundred Dollars that from his ill state of health he was finally unable to meet the payments as they became due owing to sickness as has been stated was forced and compelled to give up the lot to his sons John & Peter Skene who by going out to work by the month and year so in breach of time paid for said lot that the sons of Michael G. Skene by paying for said lot paid as much or more than the lot was worth at that time so that the old gentleman was left destitute of property and further the deponent saith not
I certify that Andrew Skene this day appeared before me and made oath that the above affidavit by him signed was true & further certify that I am acquainted with the said Andrew Skene and that he is a person of truth and veracity.
Given this 19 th day of March 1872 John Davidson of the Peace

Otsego County
William Van Slyke being sworn and saith that he has no interest directly nor indirectly in the present application of Michael G. Thurman for a pension and this deponent further saith that the said Michael G. Thurman bought a Lease Lot situate in Town of Middlefield and County aforesaid that the said Michael made a payment towards said Lot but was finally unable to meet the payments as they became due owing to sickness and expenses attending the same and was forced and compelled to give up Lot to his sons John & Peter Thurman who took an assignment of the lease as this deponent under stands. And this deponent saith that sons of the said Michael paid for the said Lot and took the same as their own and this deponent further saith that the Physicians bill of the said Michael during his sickness amounted to about one hundred dollars which was paid by his sons and this deponent further saith that he received within forty rods of the said Michael and was well acquainted with him and his circumstances and this deponent saith that he is of the opinion and confidently believes that the said Michael never could have paid for the said Lot of Land and he further saith that the amount paid by his sons which was due upon the Lot at the time the same was assigned to them together with the bills which they also paid for the said Michael was more or as much as the Lot was worth at the time of the assignment and deponent further saith the said Michael was troubled with a blindness a good part of the time

and that the said Michael gave nothing away by assigning the lot to his sons but merely paid them their honest due according to said deponents best knowledge and further deponent saith not
William Vondlyke
I certify that William Vondlyke this day appeared before me and made oath that the above affidavit by him signed was true and I further certify that I am well acquainted with the said William Vondlyke and that he is a man of truth and veracity Given this 22 d day of September 1827
Clark Davidson Justice of the Peace

Otsego County Is.
William Samson being Sworn and saith that he has no interest directly nor indirectly in the present application of Michael G. Thureau for a pension and this deponent further saith that Michael G. Thureau owns a farm lot situate in the Town of Middlefield and county of Otsego and further saith that Michael G. Thureau was sick and blind and unable to labor upon said lot so that the said lot became mortgaged to a considerable amount and further that John & Peter Thureau after they became of age went out to work by the month and year and paid for said lot to- gether with the doctors Bill which was rising of one hundred Dollars the Sons of Michael had also to buy confident- ly believes they paid more or as much as the lot was worth at that time and further deponent saith that Michael G. Thureau gave nothing away but what was honestly due the Sons of said Michael and further deponent saith not
William Samson

I Certify that William Simonson has appeared before me this day, and made oath to the above affidavit by him signed, was true and I further testify that I am well acquainted with the said William Simonson and that he is a man of truth and veracity.
Given this 22 nd day of September 1827
Clark Davidson Justice of the Peace

Clayton County ss
Peter Kurian being duly sworn saith that he has no interest directly nor indirectly in the present application of Michael G. Kurian for a pension, and this deponent further saith that he was twenty one years of age on the twenty fifth day of December 1816 and that for the promise that to my Father made to me I continued to stay at home untill I was nearly twenty four years of age there was no written contract made between me and my Father only a promise that if I would stay at home and assist in paying the debts made against the land that I should receive a compensation therefor and unless my Brother John and myself should stay at home my Father would be totally unable to cancel the debts then due and my Father being unable to do any labor of any consequence on the account of a blindness and my Mother was taken sick about the year 1816 or 17 and was under the Doctors care for the best part of five years and during this time my Father was unable to pay any debts whatever the Physicians that were employed brought in Bills of a considerable amount and the rent for the land had not been paid as fast as it became due my Father at length came to the conclusion that I would stay at home and pay a part of the then contracted debts that he would sign off certain acres of lease land to me which he claimed which I think was a very low price for nearly three years labor besides a considerable back rent which I had to pay also a part of the Doctors Bill which was rising of a hundred dollars that my Brother and myself paid more than the land was worth at that time and the land then came in to our possession further the deponent saith not
Peter Kurian

I testify that Peter Shumway this day appeared before me and made oath to the above affidavit that it was true and I further testify that I am well acquainted with the said Peter Shumway and that he is a man of truth and veracity.
Sworn this 22 d day of September 1829
Clark Darrow Justice of the Peace

This Indenture Made the 13 day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand Eight hundred and seven Between John Rapp of the town of Middlefield County of Otsego and State of New York of the first part and Michael Bravard of the town of Sharon County of Schoharie and State aforesaid of the second part Witnesseth that the said part of the first part for and in consideration of the yearly rent Covenant and Agreements herein after mentioned and contained on the part of the said part of the second part his Executors Administrators and Assigns to be paid observed and performed has demised leased and to farm letten and by these presents do demise lease and to farm let unto the said part of the second part his Executors Administra- tors and Assigns all that lot or parcel of land situate lying and being in the town of Middlefield in the County of Otsego and State of New York which parcel of land is a part of our whole parcel five on the first range on John M Bowers patent on the southernmost side of said lot. Being bounded and contained as follows (to wit) beginning at the river at the south- west corner of said lot. thence thirty five chains running the southerly line of said lot twenty one chains twenty five links to the southeasterly corner of said lot Then along the Easterly line of said lot so far that a line running easterly to the Susquehanna River Parallel to the south line above described shall contain Nineteen acres of land then southerly down said River to the place of beginning the said part of the first part for himself his heirs Executors Administrators and Assigns or the Patentee of said patent doth hereby reserve all Mines Minerals Ores and Metals and all streams and falls of water fit for Mills being or to be found within the same parcel to be used and occupied by them any thing in these presents contained to the contrary notwithstanding together with all and singular the benefits liberties and privileges to the said premises be- longing to have and to hold the said Demised premises with the Appurtenances unto the said part of the second part his Executors Administrators and Assigns for and during and until the full end and term of ten thousand years next Enuing the day of the Date of these presents fully to be Completed and Ended: Yielding and paying therefor yearly and every year During the Continuance of this Lease unto the said part of the first part his Executors heirs or Assigns the yearly rent of five Dollars and thirty two Cents on the first day of May in each and every year Clear rent over and above all taxes Charges Assessments impositions and payments whatsoever which may hereafter be taxed Charged assessed or imposed on the prem- ises according to law and the said part of the second part for himself his heirs Executors Administrators and Assigns do Covenant will and truly to pay on demand to be paid unto the said part of the first part his heirs or Assigns at days and

is according to law and the said part of the second part for himself his heirs Executors Administrators and Assigns do Covenant well and truly to pay on Cans to be paid unto the said part of the first part his heirs or Assigns at days and times and place above Mentioned yearly and every year During the Continuance of this Lease the Rent above reserved and also to pay and discharge all taxes Charges Assessments and impositions levied or imposed on the premises as aforesaid and it is further Covenanted and agreed that if it shall at any time happen that the rent above reserved on any part thereof shall be behind and unpaid for the space of fifty Days next after any of the days of payment that then and so often as it shall so hap- pen it shall and may be lawful for the said part of the first part his heirs or Assigns unto the hereby Demised pre- mises or any part thereof to Enter and Distress and the Distress there found to take and dispose of according to law to satisfy such rent due in arrears and it is further Covenanted and agreed between the said parties that for want of sufficient Distress return to levy or if any or other of the Covenants aforesaid on the part of the said part of the second part his heirs Executors Administrators or Assigns shall not be kept or shall be broken that then or in such Case it shall and may be lawful for said part of the first part his heirs or Assigns to re-enter the said premises and the same to have again repossess and enjoy as his or their former estate fully freely and absolutely without any impediment molestation or interruption what ever and it is further Covenanted that the said part of the second part his Executors Administrators and Assigns paying the rent aforesaid and performing keeping and obser- ving the Covenants and Agreements herein before contained shall and may quietly and peaceably have hold use and Enjoy the said hereby Demised premises during the said term of ten thousand years without any hindrance Disturbance or molestation at whatsoever of the said part his heirs or Assigns or of any other person or persons having or lawful claiming any right in the premises: In witness whereof the parties hereunto have interchangeably set their hands and seals the Day and year first above written
Sealed and Delivered in presence of Labor Allen William Van Slyke
This may certify that the above is a true copy of the under-lease: Constant Brachad transcriber
John Ross Michael G Brachad

Know all men by these presents that I Michael G. Kuran of Middlefield County of Otsego and State of New York hath and Doth by these presents Assign over all my right and title Interest Claim and Demand in and to the within bargained and granted premises to Peter Kuran of the same place or his heirs or Assigns for the Consideration of one hundred Dollars Current Money of the United States the said Peter to have and to hold all these privileges and Appurtenances Conveyances improvements and every thing therein unto belonging and in any wise Appertaining: Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this 4 th Day of February 1824
Josephus Wing
Michael G Kuran
Know all men by these presents that I Peter Kuran of Middlefield County of Otsego and State of New York hath and Doth by these presents Assign over all my right and title and interest Claim and Demand in and to the within Bargained and granted premises to Chester Davison of Hartwick in the County of Otsego and State of New York or his heirs or Assigns for the Consideration of two hundred Dollars Current Money of the United States the said Chester Davison to have and to hold all these privileges and Appurtenances Conveyances improvements and every thing therein to belonging and in any wise Appertaining: Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this seventeenth Day September one thousand Eight hundred and twenty five In Presence of Elisha Root
Peter Kuran
This may certify that the above are true Copies of the Assignments of the within Lease
Constant Crandall
I certify that I am well acquainted with Constant Crandall and that he is a man of truth and veracity. Given this 17 th day of September 1825
Clark Davison the Peace

This Indenture Made the first day of May in the year one thousand Eight hundred and two between John M Bowers and Margaretta his wife of the first part and John M Hughes of the second part Witnesseth that the said parties of the first part for and in Consideration of the Rents and Covenants herein after mentioned on the part and behalf of the said party of the second part his heirs Executors Administrators and assigns to be paid and performed have granted bargained sold aliened Enfeoffed and confirmed and by these presents Do grant bargain sell Enfeoff and Confirm unto the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns all that certain lot of land farm situate lying and being in the town of Middlesex in the County of Atsego which lot or farm is parcel of a certain large tract of land situate in the County aforesaid being the southernmost End of a patent granted to Godfrey Miller and others and is known and distinguished in a map or plan of the subdivision thereof by lot or farm Number thirtyfive in the first Range being bounded and Containing as follows to wit Beginning at the River at the southwest Corner of lot N o 34. and runs from thence along a line of marked trees South Sixty five Degrees East twenty six Chains to the southeast Corner of said lot N o 34 then South twenty five Degrees West twenty five Chains to a tree Marked 35:36. then North Sixty five Degrees West twenty one Chains and twenty five links to the River then up the said River to the place of beginning Containing sixty five acres of Land together with all and singular the Rights Members Hereditaments and appurtenances to the said lot or farm hereby granted belonging or in any wise appertaining Excepting and Reserving unto the said parties of the first part their heirs and assigns out of the said lot or farm hereby granted all Mines Minerals ores and Metals and all streams and falls of water for power or use found within the same to be used occupied by them for ever to have and to hold the said lot or farm hereby granted with the Hereditaments and Appurtenances Excepting and Reserving as before are excepted and Reserved unto the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns to the only proper use and behoof of the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns for ever upon Condition that the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns shall faithfully pay unto the said parties of the first part their heirs and assigns yearly and Every year and on Every first day of May in Every year for the term of one years next ensuing the date hereof the Rent of three Eights of a Spanish milled silver Dollar for the said lot or farm and from and after the Expiration of the said term of one year yearly and Every year and on Every first day of May in Every year for ever thereafter a further Annual Rent of nineteen Dollars to be paid and Delivered by the said party of the second part his Executors Administrators or Assign at Cooperstown in the State aforesaid and if Default shall be made in the payment and Delivery of the said Annual Rent hereby reserved and made payable for the space of fifty days next after any or Either of the said days of payment herein before Appointed being first lawfully Demand it then and from thenceforth it shall be lawful to and for the said parties of the first part their heirs and assigns into the said lot or farm hereby granted to distrain and the distresses or or Distresses then and there found to take Lead Drive and Carry away and therefore to dispose until the said Rent so due and in arrear together with the Charges of distress shall be fully satisfied and that if no sufficient distress shall then and there be found that then and from thenceforth it shall and may be lawful to and for the said parties of the first part their heirs or assigns into the said lot or farm hereby granted with the hereditaments and Appurtenances to re-enter and the same to have again Repossess and Enjoy as his her or their former Estate any thing in these presents contained to the contrary not withstanding

distress shall then and there be found that then and from thenceforth it shall and may be lawful to and for the said parties of the first part their heirs or assigns into the said lot or farm hereby granted with the hereditaments and appurtenances to re-enter and the same to have again possess and enjoy as his her or their former estate any thing in these presents contained to the contrary notwithstanding and the said party of the second part for himself his heirs executors and administrators doth covenant grant and agree to and with the said parties of the first part their heirs executors administrators and assigns by these presents that he the said party of the second part his heirs executors administrators or assigns shall and will well and truly pay or cause to be paid unto the said parties of the first part their heirs or assigns the respective rents and payments herein charged and reserved on each and every of the days and times of payment on which the same are above provided and prescribed to be paid and further that he the said party of the second part his heirs executors administrators and assigns shall and will at all times hereafter well and faithfully pay and satisfy as the same shall from time to time hereafter grow and become due and payable all taxes charges or assessments ordinary or extraordinary which shall be taxed charged or assessed upon the said lot or farm or any part thereof or upon the said parties of the first part their heirs or assigns for and in respect thereof or any part thereof and shall also fully and effectually indemnify the said parties of the first part their heirs executors administrators or assigns of and from damages and losses to which he she or they have or may be put or exposed by neglect of the due and punctual discharge of the same and further that he the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns shall and will within ten years from the day of the date of these presents on said lot or farm plant or set out an orchard of good grafted apple trees in a regular form at the distance of forty feet from each other and to contain one tree for every acre of the premises hereby granted and the same at all times forever hereafter shall and will until maintain and keep in good and sufficient fence order and condition and the said parties of the first part their heirs executors administrators and assigns do covenant and grant to and with the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns that he the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns observing and performing the payments and covenants herein reserved and expressed on his or their parts to be observed and performed and that at respective times and in the manner herein prescribed and appointed shall and may peaceably and quietly have hold use and enjoy the said lot or farm with the hereditaments and appurtenances unto him the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns for ever without the lawful let suit hindrance or molestation of any person or persons whomsoever and that free and clear and truly and clearly and absolutely acquitted discharged and saved harmless and kept indemnified by the said parties of the first part their heirs and assigns of and from all and all manner of incumbrances whatsoever by which whereof the parties to these presents sealed and delivered.
in the presence of Henry Shinn Alexander McCollum
This may Certify that the above is a true copy of the original Lease - Constant Brandal Transcriber
John M Bowers Margaretta M.S. Bowers John M Hughes

I John Morris Hughes Quit all my Right and title to Within Lees for Sixty five Dollars to Alphus French as witness my hand test Hugh Rogers John M Hughes
John M (Bowers) to Hughes know
Middlefield December the 9 th 1805 Know all men by these that I Samuel Ellis for value received of John Rops two hundred and thirty five Dollars paid to me in hand Do give over the Within Lees to the said John Rops all my Right and title and rents that is Due til the above Date Except fifteen Dollars free from all incumbrance except the load of the Soil as Witness my hand in presence of Andrew Strait Samuel Ellis
I Alphus French Quit all my Right and title to Within Lees for one hundred and Sixty Dollars to Samuel Ellis Alphus French
Know all men by these presents that I John Rops of Middlefield County of Otsego and State of New York both now Doth by these presents assign over all my right title interest Claim and Demand in and to the within bargained and granted premises to Hiram Alger of the same place or his heirs or assigns for the Consideration of one hundred Dollars Current money of the United States the said Hiram to have and hold all the privileges and appurtenances conveniences improvements and every thing therein belonging and in any wise appertaining Witness Whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal this 13 th day of April 1809 James Mc Callom John Rops
Know all men by these presents that I Hiram Alger of the town of Middlefield in Consideration of fifty Dollars paid in hand as for my self my heirs Executors Administrators assigns sine transfer set over the within bear rents to Michael G Kurran as witness my hand in presence of and Seal — Middlefield January 23 1810 Hiram Alger Andrew Strait
Know all men by these presents that I Michael G Kurran in Consideration fifty five Dollars & fifty two Cents L.M. in hand paid the hereby assign & make over the Within Lees to Jesse Smith to his heirs or and assigns for ever by this agreement is upon this Condition that if said Michael shall pay the above sum or less meanwhile then this agreement is to be Discharged In said Jesse is to reassign the said leases in Witness whereof I do hereunto subscribe my hand and Seal this Eighth February 1820 Sealed and Delivered in presence of — J Starkweather Michael G Kurran

Sealed and Delivered in presence of — J Starkweather
Michael G. Kuran
Know all men by these presents that I Jesse Smith in Consideration of fifty five to me in hand paid here by these presents do assign this Lease to Michael Kuran his heirs and assigns to have and to the same for ever in witness whereof I have here unto set my hand and seal this fifteenth day of march 1820 Sealed and Delivered in presence of J Jesse Smith
Know all men by these presents that I Michael G. Kuran in Consideration of one hundred and fifty two Dollars to me in hand paid doth and doth by this assign over all my right and title interest claim and demand in and to the within Bargain and granted premises to John Kuran of the same place his heirs and assigns the said John Kuran to have and to hold all these privileges and Appurtenances Conveniences improvements and every thing therein unto belonging and in any wise appertaining in witness whereof I have here unto set my hand and seal this 17 th day of February 1824 Michael G. Kuran
Know all men by these presents that I John Kuran of Middlefield in the County of Otsego and State of New York in Consideration of six hundred Dollars in hand paid do for self my Heirs Executors administrators and assigns sign transfer and set over the within Lease to Chester Davison of Hartwick in the County of Otsego and State of New York as witness my hand and seal this Seventeenth Day of September one thousand eight hundred and twenty five In presence of Elisha Root John Kuran
This may certify that the foregoing true Copies of the assignments of the original Lease
Constant Brandall Transferer
I Verrify that Constant Brandall This day appeared before me and made oath that the above are true Copies of the assignments of the original Lease and I further Verrify that I am acquainted with Constant Brandall and that he is a man of truth and veracity known before me this 17 th day of September 1824
Clark Davison Justice of the Peace