Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 18,124, for Ebenezer Thresher, Connecticut

SERVICE
NUMBER _____
Conn.
Thresher, Ebenezer, Hannah.
W. 18. 124
CONTENTS

Connecticut — 1383
Hannah Thresher, widow of Ebenezer Thresher, deceased
who was a pensioner under the Act of 7 June, 1832 and who died on the 23 d Oct r 1832 of Tolland co. in the State of Connecticut who was a prisoner in the camp commanded by Captain Loon of the Reg t commanded by Col. Cook in the Genl. St. Troops line for 9 months private
Inscribed on the Roll of
at the rate of 30 Dollars — Cents per annum to commence on the 4 th day of March, 1836
Certificate of Pension issued the 14 th day of De- cember 1838 and sent to Hon. O. Holt, M. R. Secy.
Arrears to the 4 th of Sept. 1838 = $75.00 Semi-annual allowance ending 15.00
$90.00
{ Act July 7, 1838. }
Recorded by S. Elliot Clerk Book 8 Vol. 1 Page 214
+ +

9711
Connecticut
Ebenezer Thresher of Stafford in the State of Connecticut who was a Pri in the Conn commander by Captain of the Reg commander by Col Book in the Conn State Troops. 9 mo
Inscribed on the Roll of Conn at the rate of 30 Dollars 00 Cents per annum to commence on the 14th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 21 day of June 1883 and sent J. W. Crawford New London at Arrears to the 14th of March 33 $ 60 3 Semi-ant. allowance ending Sept 33 1 50
47 50
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by E. D. Burroughs Clerk, Book Vol. 3 Page 43

State of Connecticut } Probate Court, August 22 nd 1832 Tolland County }
On this 22 nd day of August 1832 personally appeared in open court before Adolphus Woodworth Esquire Judge of Probate for the District of Stafford holding s d court of Probate for s d District now sitting the same being a court of record Ebenezer Thrasher of Stafford in the County of Tolland in the State of Conn- ecticut aged seventy five years whiling being first duly sworn according to Law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed May June 7 th 1832. That he enlisted into the service of the United States under the following named Officers and served as herein stated. That according to my recollection at this time some time in the month of May 1776, (the day of s d Month I have forgotten ) at Stafford aforesaid I enlisted as a private soldier for the term of seven months under Capt. Abiel Pease then of Somers in s d County of Tolland (who is no w dead) and was immediately after my s d enlistment marched in the s d Capt Pease's company to Fort Trumbull in the Town of Stratford in the State of Connecticut, where I was quartered during s d seven months in s d Capt Pease's company as s d Fort Trumbull the s d Capt Pease's company belonged to the troops called State troops. I well remember that Col. Erastus Trumbull was comm- ander in chief of all the companies stationed at s d Fort during s d seven mo- nths. I was together with the rest of the soldiers that were quartered at s d Fort during s d seven months principally employed in finishing s d Fort (which at that time was but partly built) and in defending the harbor and Town of Strat- ford from the ravages of the British forces. I was in no battle while stationed at s d Fort during s d term of seven months and at the expiration of s d seven months which was some time in the month of Dec r 1776 (the day of s d month I do not remember) I was discharged and returned to s d Town of Staff- ord where I remained until about the 20 th of August 1777 when I was dra- fted at s d Stafford out of the Militia Company to which I then belonged in s d Stafford (the name of the Capt n who then commanded s d company out of which I was drafted I do not now remember) for the term of two mo- nths as I think and immediately thereafter I joined the Company then com- manded by Capt n Thomas Lawson of Union in s d County of Tolland (who is now dead) at the Town of Tolland in s d Tolland County. Said Capt n Law- son's Company were principally composed of soldiers drafted from Militia Comp- anies, I believe that there were but few volunteers in his s d company. I was marched in the s d Capt n Lawson's s d company from s d Town of Tolland to East Hartford or Hartford in the State of Connecticut, and from thence as I think to East Hartford in s d State of Connecticut and from s d East Hartford to Green Bush in the State of New York, where I think we crossed over the North to Albany in s d State of New York and were then marched upon the west side of s d River to a place called Half Moons and from thence to a place called Still Water at which s d last mentioned place the s d Capt n Law- son and the s d company under his command joined the Regiment

under the command of Col. Cook, and if I rightly recollect General Poor commanded the Brigade to which 2 d Regiment was attached and Major General Gates was commander in chief of the American army at the time and place. I well remember that General Benedict Arnold was at said Still Water and that he was badly wounded in the battle which took place at the Still Water on the 7 th day of October 1777. I think General Lincoln from the State of Massachusetts was also there. I was myself in the battle which took place at the Still Water on the the 7 th of October, after which and I think it was during the night of the 8 th of October 1777 that Burgoyne and his army retreated to Saratoga where and as I think on the morning of the 17 th or 18 th the American army pursued Burgoyne and his Army to Saratoga They were in a short time surrounded by the American army. There was but little fighting at said Saratoga and that was confined to scouting parties. I well remember that Burgoyne and his army surrendered induced themsel- ves as prisoners of war to the American Army, which took place on the 17 th day of October 1777. I was present in the said 2 d Capt. Lawson's Company in the American army at that time and place, and saw Burgoyne and his army march through the American army as prisoners of war, after which I was marched in said 2 d Capt. Lawson's Company back to said Albany and there crossed said North River and was marched down said River on the east side thereof together with other American troops to a place called Claver- ick in said State of New York, where I think the said Capt. Lawson's Compa- ny staid a few days (I have forgotten how many) during a severe storm. I was then marched in said 2 d Capt. Lawson's Company to or near a place called Livingston Manor in said State of New York where I was discharged and also the rest of the soldiers that then belonged to said 2 d Capt. Lawson's Company. I then returned to said Stafford where I have ever since resided. I think I was not discharged until the latter part of October or the fore part of Novem- ber 1777. I served full two months in said last four weeks I think of not more
And in answer to the Interrogatories put by the Court as prescribed by the War Department I declare and say that I was born in said Town of Stafford in said County of Tolland and State of Connecticut aforesaid, in which said Town of Stafford I have lived and resided from my youth birth to the present time (except the times when I was in the American army as above stated, The time of my birth is recorded in an old family Bible which is now in my house, by which it appears that I was born on the 22 nd day of October 1756. (I have no other record of my age). I never had any written discharge, that I served under an enlistment and a draft, when I was called by out in service as above stated. I do not now remember any more of the Off- icers or Regiments or circumstances of my service than what I have before stated in this my declaration. I am known to Rufus Leonard Esq. and Deacon Olden Bledges of said Town of Stafford who can testify to my character as for veracity, and their belief of my services as a soldier

in the revolution and that I now know of no evidence that I can procure other than what I have obtained, or shall obtain and transmit therewith to the War Department, and I hereby relinquish every  whichever claim to a pension or annuity except the present. I have no documentary evidence and that my name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state, sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid Ebenezer Thresher
We Rufus Leonard and Olden Blodget both of Stafford in St. Tolland county hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Ebenezer Thresher of St. Stafford who has subscribed to the above declaration. That we believe him to be seventy five years of age, that he is a man of veracity, and 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 to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid Rufus Leonard Olden Blodget
And the said court do hereby certify and declare their opinion that 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 the said Rufus Leonard Esq. and Deacon Olden Blodget who have signed the preceding certificate are residents in the Town of Stafford in the County of Tolland in the State of Connecticut, and are creditable persons and that their statements are entitled to credit, and the court further certifies that it appears to them that Israel Howe, John Fuller, and Joseph Griggs who have severally subscribed the depositions which will be sent transmitted herewith are credible persons and their several testimonies are entitled to credit, And the court further certifies that it appears to them that the clergymen in St. Stafford have been so recently settled in St. Town that they are not particularly acquainted with the above named applicant and know nothing of his reputed services as a soldier of the revolution Passed by the court, Calvin Fiske, Clerk
I Calvin Fiske Clerk of the court of Probate for the District of Stafford, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Ebenezer Thresher for a pension. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 22 nd day of August 1832
Attest, Calvin Fiske Clerk
A true copy certified from record
Calvin Fiske, Clerk of Probate for the District of Stafford

I hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the Colvin Tishe & his hand writing - that he is Clerk of the Court of Probate for the District of Stafford - and that his signature and the seal appended to the within certificate are believed to be genuine.
J. W. G. Rawford, Collector of the Customs, Newsonn, etc.
June 4, 1833,

Who, B.B. in S. Peterboro A. 1832 Feb. 11
1383 (2044) Hannah Thresher
born act 7 July 38 m 82. d. 32
admitted 9 mo pri 30/12
No deduction
Hon. O. Holt

Declaration.
In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of the 7 th July 1838 entitled "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows"
State of Connecticut } Probate District, Stafford Tolland County } September the 13 th A D 1838- On this 13 th day of September 1838 personally
appeared in open court before Rodolphus Woodworth Esquire Judge of Probate for the District of Stafford, in said County of Tolland, Hannah Thresher of Stafford in said District and resident in said town of Stafford aged seventy six years, who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7 th 1838 entitled "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows" That she was married to Ebenezer Thresher late of said town of Stafford, deceased, on the 4 th day of May A D 1784 that the said Ebenezer Thresher was a private or soldier in the Revolutionary War and performed certain services therein for his country, which are particularly stated in his declaration now on file in the pension office at Washington dated (as she supposes) the 22 nd day of August A D 1832 on which he obtained a pension of Thirty Dollars per annum during his natural life, but she is unable to state from recollection the several terms of his service and would therefore refer the Department to his said declaration on file in the pension office as aforesaid for further information. That the said Ebenezer Thresher her said late husband died at said town of Stafford on

the 23 rd day of October A D 1832, and she the said Hannah Thresher as his widow drew the arrear of his pension due at the time of his decease - That the said Ebenezer Thresher's pension cer- tificate was forwarded to the pension Agent at Hartford Ct and she supposes afterwards forward- ed to the pension office, and the said Han- nah Thresher further represents and declares that she was at the time of the death of her said (late) husband, the said Ebenezer Thresher de- ceased, his lawful wife, and that she since his death and now is a widow and unmarried, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed, (I also certify that the said Hannah Thresher is a credible witness) Sworn to and subscribed, { Hannah Thresher on the day and year above written, before
I certify that the said Hannah Thresher after signing the above declaration discovered that the letter "N" in spelling her christian name was omitted & that she there- interlined the said letter "N" above the name Hannah where she subscribed said declaration -
Rodolphus Woodworth Judge of Probate for Stafford District
I Francis R. Woodworth Clerk of the court of Probate for the district of Stafford In the county of Tolland, and state of Connecticut, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in

the matter of the application of Hannah Thresher for a pension. In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of said office this 25 day of September A 1838
Francis R. Woodworth Clerk

State of Connecticut } County of Tolland } for Town Clerk's Office Stafford Sept. 3 rd 1838
(Extract from the records of the town of Stafford aforesaid)
"Ebenezer Thrasher and Hannah Blodget were joined in marriage May second seventeen hundred eighty two"
I hereby certify that the above is a true copy of the Record with the exception of the date, which is expressed on the record in fair and legible figures as follows "May 2 nd 1782"
Attest Abijah Blodget Town Clerk
I Abijah Blodget above named, depose and say, that I hold the office of Town Clerk in the town, county and state aforesaid, and that the above is a true extract from the records of said town of Stafford with the exception above named as certified by me Abijah Blodget
State of Connecticut } County of Tolland } for Stafford September the 13 th A.D. 1838 -
Personally appeared Abijah Blodget Town Clerk of said town of Stafford, who has subscribed the above and foregoing Certificate, and made solemn oath to the truth of the same, I also know that the said Abijah Blodget is the town clerk of said town of Stafford legally chosen and sworn as such, and that the time by him certified when said marriage took place is correct, as I have seen the original Rec- ord myself at his office, I also know him to be a credible witness -
Sworn before me Rodolphus Woodworth Justice Peace for Tolland County

State of Connecticut County of Tolland ss County Clerk's office
I Jeremiah Parish Clerk of the County aforesaid County, Certify that Rodolphus Woodworth Esq of Stafford is a Justice of Peace within said County duly appointed, sworn and acting in said capacity, that his Commission bears date the 26 th day of April May 1838 and will continue until the 20 th day of June 1839 also that the signature to the within certificate purporting to be the signature of said Justice Woodworth is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and official seal at Tolland in said County this 20 th day of September 1838
Jeremiah Parish Clerk

We Thomas H. Thresher and Lorenda Thresher both of Stafford in the County of Tolland and State of Connecticut Son and daughter of Ebenezer Thresher late of said Stafford; deceased, (the said Thomas H. Thresher aged thirty four years, and the said Lorenda Thresher aged forty seven years) testify and say that our late honored Father the said Ebenezer Thresher, deceased, who was a pensioner at the time of his decease (as will ap- pear at the pension office at the City of Washington) died at said town of Stafford on the 23 rd day of October A D 1832. we were both of us present with him during his last sickness, and took care of him, and we both attended at his funeral, and know that he died at the time above stated, and we further testify and say that our hon- ored mother Hannah Thresher of said Stafford was at the time of his death his lawful wife, and that she survive his death and now is a widow and unmarried. — Stafford September 13 th 1838
Thomas H. Thresher
Lorenda Thresher
State of Connecticut } County of Tolland } ss Stafford September the 13 th A D 1838 —
Personally appeared Thomas H. Thresher and Lorenda Thresher of said town of Stafford, who have subscribed the above and foregoing dep- osition, and made solemn oath to the truth of the facts by them stated in the above deposition by them subscribed. I further certify that I have been well acquainted with the said Thomas H. Thresher and Lorenda Thresher for many years, they are persons of good character and are credible wit- nesses, I have personal knowledge that the facts by them stated are true —
Sworn before Rodolphus Woodworth Justice Peace for Tolland County

State of Connecticut County of Tolland } p County Clerk's office
I Jeremiah Parish Clerk of the Courts in said County, certify that Rolfe Stephen Woodworth Esq. of Stafford is a justice of Peace within said County duly appointed, sworn and acting in said Capacity, that his Commission bears date the 26 th day of May 1838 and will continue until the 26 th day of June 1839 — also that the signature to the within certifi- cate purporting to be the signature of said Justice Woodworth is genuine —
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and official seal at Tolland in said County this 20 th day of September 1838
Jeremiah Parish Clerk

12736
Ebenezer Thrasher 6, t Stafford
Obj. 10
Admitted
Parole of months
Parole of months
Admitted
Parole of months
J. W. Crawford Parole New London Conn.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjóined 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 Ebenezer Thrasher 6, t
   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.     1776 enlist 1 7 Private Capt Field  Pease Wolcott Col Stationed at Fort Trumbull 75 born in Stafford Ct and entered the service there and now lives in said place   enlist at Hartford 2 " Capt Lawson Cook Battle of Still Waters was at Green Bush the Capital N.Y. of Burgoyne East Hartford New Hartford then Three living witnesses the whole service No Certificate of a Congressman but there is a Certificate of 2 Congressmen  
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS, Commissioner of Pensions.

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

will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County, in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
 1. Where and in what year were you born?  2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?  3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?  4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?  5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.  6. { To a Soldier. } Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given and what has become of it? { To an Officer. } Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?  7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution. 
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons -one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify, to the character and standing of other persons, giving such certificates.
The traditional evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his 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 [e] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule [e] 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.

Thresher Company Varnish Makers Dayton, Ohio
Dec. 26th, 1899
Gen. H. Clay Evans, Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:-
I very much desire some information from the files of your Department concerning the military record in the war of the Revolution of my Grandfather, Ebenezer Thresher of Stafford, Tolland Co., Conn. The State Records of Connecticut show that he was enumerated as a government pensioner in the year 1832, and that Hannah, his wife was drawing a pension in 1840. If it is possible for me to secure a full copy of the affidavit or other documents, stating the facts upon which the pension was issued, I should be greatly obliged. I think we met last at the meeting of the National Manufacturers Association, at Chicago and hope for a repetition of the pleasure. Permit me to avail myself of this opportunity as a comrade of the Grand Army of the Republic to express my high appreciation of your wise and patriotic course in the management of your Department.
I remain,
Very truly yours,
E. W. Thresher

Faint, mirrored text from the reverse side of the page, likely bleed-through from the original letter.
Very truly yours,
Faint, mirrored signature from the reverse side of the page.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D. C., _____, 19____
In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of Ebenezer Thresher a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau. W. 18,124
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     May 1776 7 mos Pvt. Abial Pease Ebenezer Wolcott Conn.   Aug. 1777 2 mos " Thomas Lawson book "        
Battles engaged in, Stillwater.
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Stafford Tolland Co. Conn.
Date of application for pension, Aug. 22, 1832. His claim was allowed.
Residence at date of application, Stafford Tolland Co. Conn.
Age at date of application, Oct 22, 1756 in Stafford, Conn. where he died Oct 23 1832
Remarks: he married in Stafford, Conn. May 2, 1782, Hannah Blodget and she was allowed pension on an ap. ex. Sept. 13, 1838 while a resident of Stafford, Conn. aged 76 years.
Children: Dorenda, 47 years; Thomas H. 34 years in 1838.
There is no further family data.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 18124
Hannah Thresher Widow of Elmer Thresher Port New York
Act: July 14th 88
Index:—Vol. M , Page 242
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Feb. 2-1920 E. M. Thresher Dayton, Ohio H. 515 - Copies can't be furnished
1914. Apr. 23: History to Mrs. Susie W. Letourneau. M.B.H.
1914. June 8: History to Mrs. Joseph H. Johnson. M.B.H.

I Israel How of Stafford in the County of Tolland and State of Connecticut aged sixty three years depose Testify and say that according to the best of my recollection at this time some time in the month of May (the day of S. month I do not recollect) 1776 Ebenezer Thresher of S. Stafford enlisted at S. Stafford as a private soldier under Capt. Abiel Pease of Somers in S. County (who is now dead) in the army of the revolution in the State troops so called for the term of seven months - I enlisted at S. Stafford at the same time that the said Ebenezer Thresher did, & for the same term of time and under the S. Capt. Abiel Pease, im- mediately after said enlistment, we were marched to New London in the State of Connecticut, and quartered at Fort Trumbull at S. New London for the aforesaid term of seven months, myself & the said Ebenezer Thresher & most of the sol- diers then stationed at S. Fort during S. seven months service were principally employed at S. Fort in building the and finishing the same (the building of S. Fort having commenced previous to to our being quartered there) and in defending the town and harbour of S. New London against the enemy - I well remember that Col Erastus Wolcott (who I suppose is now dead) was was commander in chief at S. Fort during S. seven months that myself & S. Thresher were stationed there, & the said Capt. Abiel Pease com- manded the company at S. Fort to which myself and the S. Ebenezer Thresher belonged, and at the expiration of said seven months myself and the said Ebenezer Thresher & the rest of S. Capt. Pease's company were discharged - there was no engagement or battle at S. Fort while we were quartered there as aforesaid. I returned to S. Staf- ford in company with S. Thresher after we were discharged or dismissed as aforesaid - Stafford August 1 st 1832 -
Israel How
State of Connecticut } County of Tolland } S. Stafford August 1 st A.D. 1832.

Personally appeared Israel Howe of said Stafford who has subscribed the within and foregoing Deposition and made solemn oaths to the truth of the same, sworn before me
Rodolphus Woodworth Just. Peace
I hereby certify that I have been for many years well acquainted with Israel Howe of Stafford in the County of Tolland who has subscribed and sworn to the foregoing Deposition that he is a person of veracity, and that his testimony is entitled to full credit
Rodolphus Woodworth Just. Peace

I John Fuller of Willington in the county of Tolland and State of Connecticut aged seventy nine years do hereby testify and say that according to the best of my remembrance at this time, about the 20 th day of August 1777 I was drafted by Capt. Jeremiah Amidean (then of S. Willington) out of a militia company in S. Willington then commanded by the S. Capt. Amidean. I think I was drafted for two months - immediately after I was drafted I joined a company of drafted militia commanded by Capt. Thomas Lawson of Union in S. Tolland County - and Ebenezer Thresher of Stafford in S. County joined the S. Capt. Lawson's company at the same time that I did (the names of the other officers of S. Lawson's company I do not remember) we were then marched in S. Capt. Lawson's company and under his command to Hartford in S. State of Connecticut & from S. Hartford to New Hartford in S. State of Connecticut and from said New Hartford to the Green Bush in the State of New York where we crossed the North River and were  then  to a place called  half moon  where we joined the American army and joined the American army at a place called Still Water in S. State of New York, the Regt. which S. Capt. Lawson's company joined at S. Still Water was I think commanded by Col. Back, I do not recollect the name of the General that commanded the Brigade to which S. Regt. was attached I recollect that Genl. Poor, Genl. Arnold, Genl. Lincoln as I think were there, and Major General Gates I think was commanded in chief of the American army at that place, myself and the S. Ebenezer Thresher and the most of S. Capt. Lawson's company were in the battle which took place at S. Still Water in the month of Octr 1777 immediately after which S. Capt. Burgoyne & his army retreated to Saratoga, and were soon pursued by the American army to that place (I well remember that Genl. Arnold was wounded in the battle at S. Still Water & I assisted in carrying him in a blanket to the American camp) and in a short time after Burgoyne and his army were surrounded by the American army, there was not much fighting at S. Saratoga after Burgoyne & his army were surrounded, except by scouting parties till he & his army surrendered themselves prisoners of war to the American army which I remember

took place the 17 day of October 1777. I was present and also the S. Ebenezer Thresher and the S. Capt. Lawson & most of his S. company in the american army, at S. Saratoga, when Burgoyne & his army surrendered and marched through the american army as prisoners of war, we were then marched to Albany & there crossed the North River & were marched down on the east side of S. River in S. Lawsons company to Glavenich in S. State of New York where we staid two or three days as I think an account of a storm, we were then marched down S. River on the east side thereof (from S. Glavenich) to a place called Livingston Manor, where at which S. last mentioned place the S. Ebenezer Thresher myself and the rest of the soldiers in S. Capt. Lawsons company were discharged, I then know that the S. Ebenezer Thresher served in said Capt. Lawsons company the same term of time that I did, which was two months, I cannot at this late period, & at my advanced age be any more particular as to dates & circumstances and further the Deposition saith not —  Stafford August 20 th 1832 — John Fuller
State of Connecticut
Tolland County
ss, Stafford August 20 th 1832 —
Personally appeared John Fuller, who has subscribed the foregoing Deposition, and made solemn oath to the truth of the same, sworn before me
Rodolphus Woodworth Just. Peace
I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with John Fuller who has subscribed and sworn to the foregoing Deposition that he is a person of veracity and his testimony entitled to full credit —
Rodolphus Woodworth Just. Peace

I Joseph Griggs of Brimfield in the county of Hampshire and State of Massachusetts (late of the town of Union in the county of Tolland and State of Connecticut) aged eighty two years, testify and say that about the 20 of August 1777 I was a volunteer in the company of drafted militia commanded by Capt. Thomas Lawson of S. Union (who is now dead) and that Ebenezer Thresher of Stafford in S. county joined said Capt. Lawson's company at Tolland in S. county at the same time that I did - and was marched with me in S. Capt. Lawson's company from S. Tolland to Green Bush where I think we crossed over the North River to Albany and were marched up on the west side of S. River to a place called Half Moon, and from there to Still Water, the S. Ebenezer Thresher and myself were both in S. Capt. Lawson's company and were both in the battle that took place at said Still Water on the 7 th of October 1777. I know that S. Thresher served with me in S. company until we were discharged at or near a place called Livingston's Manor on the east side of S. North River in S. State of New York - I think we were discharged also at the first of Nov r 1777 - I was the orderly serjeant of S. Capt. Lawson's company, and now have the muster roll of S. company. I have examined S. roll and find that the name of the S. Ebenezer Thresher is now upon it - and further the Deposition saith not - Stafford August 21 st 1832. Joseph Griggs
State of Connecticut } Stafford August 21 st 1832. Tolland county ss } Personally appeared Joseph Griggs who has subscribed the foregoing Deposition, and made

solemn oath to the truth of the same - sworn before me Rodolphus Woodward Justice Peace
and I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with the Joseph Griggs, that he is a person of veracity, and his testimony is entitled to credit - Rodolphus Woodward Just. Peace
State of Connecticut ss) Tolland County
s. s. Clerk's office
P. 786
I Jeremiah Parish Clerk of Tolland County Court do certify that Rodolphus Woodward Esq whose certificates accompany the foregoing depositions of Joseph Griggs Israel Howe and John Fuller and before whom sd depositions were taken & sworn to on the 18 th 20 th & 21 st days of August 1832 was at each of sd days long before was & still is a Justice of Peace with & for Tolland County aforesaid, legally appointed and authorized to administer oaths, and take depositions & that the subscribed signatures to the several certificates aforesaid purporting to be the signatures of sd Justice Woodward I believe to be genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of sd Court at Tolland this 28 th day of August A 1832
Jeremiah Parish Clerk

Mr Bryant Make copy of application of Ebenezer Thresher Revolutionary War and send A. A. Thresher Dayton Ohio.
Copy furnished Nov 20. 1900. L. M. Bryant C. D.

Mr. Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C.
Messrs. Will you kindly send to me a copy of application of Revolutionary war pension of Ebenezer Thresher Stafford Conn. - born in 1757 and died Oct 23 - 1832.
Also the copy of pension of his widow Hannah Thresher Born 1763 - and

died 1840 - and slige.
Mrs Susie Vats Letourneau. Minneapolis Minn. 1701 - Portland Ave.
4/20/14

Minneapolis Minn 2005-2 Air South
June 5-1914
Commissioner of Pensions Bureau of Pensions Washington D.C.
Dear Sir:—
Please send me copy of the pension papers of Ebenezer Thresher who was born in Stafford Conn Oct 22- 1756 and

who died in Stafford Conn. Oct 23 - 1832 - He married Annah Blodget 1782 - He served in the Revolution under Capt Abial Paine - Col. Erastus Walcott - also under Capt Thomas Dawson, Col. Cook - Very Respectfully Mrs. Joseph H Johnson

Stafford Springs Ct Sept r 25 1898
Hon. J. L. Edwards, Com te of Pensions,
Dear Sir,
I send you herewith the application of widow Hannah Thresher for a pension under the act of Congress passed July 7 1838, when the application is granted I wish you to send her certificate to me by mail, as I am her agent and have done the business for her, you will please direct to me at Stafford Springs Tolland County, State of Connecticut
Rodolphus Woodworth