Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 2,636, for Christopher Tompkins, Virginia

SERVICE
NUMBER
Va Sea Service.
Y Tompkins Christopher R. 2636. Dameron, Martha
Former widow and Va Half-Pay
CONTENTS

Christopher Tompkins  James
Robert Tompkins 

Virginia, to wit:
I, David Campbell
Governor of the STATE aforesaid, do hereby certify and make known unto ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN , that
William Richardson whose name is subscribed to the annexed document is, (and was at the time of subscribing the same, Secretary of the Commonwealth of Virginia duly appointed and qualified according to Law, (and to all his Official acts in such full faith, credit and authority, are due and ought to be given.
In testimony whereof, I have subscribed my name, and caused the Great Seal of the STATE to be affixed hereunto. Done at the CITY OF RICHMOND , the twenty first day of June in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine and of the COMMONWEALTH the sixth third
David Campbell

To the Governor of Va:
The heirs of Capt. Ro: Tompkins respectfully state that under the arrangement of the Navy their ancestor was entitled to 5333 1/3 acres but has only received 4000 ac s . The agent of the Executive (Mr. Smith) has reported him entitled to the additional Lands - They respectfully pray its allowance
T. Green
for the Petitioners
I Caleb Jenkins aged 75 years of Glo: County do hereby certify that I was well acquainted with Capt. Robert Tompkins & L t Christopher Tompkins his son & know that they each enlisted in the State service in the Revolutionary war as early as 1775 or '76. & served in the Navy on board one of the Roe galleys belonging to York River for & during the war - Robert as a Captain & said Christopher his son as a Lieutenant - said Capt. Ro. after the war returned to Glo: county & there lived until he died - said Christopher removed to Hampton & there I believe lived until he died. They each belonged to Glo. when they enlisted
Caleb X his Jenkins mark
Gloucester county to wit:
Personally appeared before me this day a Justice of the peace in & for the said County Caleb Jenkins, who has signed the foregoing certificate, & made oath according to law as to the correctness of the statement therein contained: and I do hereby certify that any statement made by the said Caleb Jenkins entitled to full faith & credit - Given under my hand & seal this 5 th day of November 1833
Jn o Sinclair J. P. (Seal)
I William Stroud aged 81 years do hereby certify that I was acquainted with Robert Tompkins formerly of Gloucester and know that he enlisted at an early period of the war in the State service, that he was of the Navy & a Captain in the State service & commanded one of the Gallies belonging to York River - I do not recollect for what length of time he enlisted, or how long

he served, but know that he was engaged in service for some considerable length of time - After the war I understood that he returned to the county of Gloucester where he remained until he died W m Stroud
City of Williamsburg to wit:
This day personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace in & for the said city William Stroud whose name is subscribed to the foregoing certificate & made oath according to law, to the correctness of the statement, in manner & form as set forth in the same. And I do hereby certify that any statement made by the said William Stroud is entitled to full faith and credit - Given under my hand & seal this 16 th day of Octo. 1833
Seal
I Howard Hobday aged 68 years of the county of Gloucester do hereby certify that I was well acquainted with Capt. Robert Tompkins formerly of said county & know that early in the Revolutionary war (perhaps as early as 1775 or '76) he enlisted in the State service, & served as Captain in the Henry Valley for & during the said war - after the said war he returned to the said county & there lived until he died
Howard Hobday
Gloucester county to wit
This day personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace in & for the said county Howard Hobday whose name is subscribed to the foregoing certificate & made oath according to law as to the correctness of the statement therein contained - & I do hereby certify that any statement made by the said Howard Hobday is entitled to full faith & credit - Given under my hand & seal this 4 th day of November 1833 Geo. Sinclair J.P. Seal
I Henry Buchanan aged 71 years do hereby certify that I was well acquainted with Capt. Robert Tompkins of the

Navy who formerly resided in the county of Gloucester, & in the neighborhood where I was raised & know that he enlisted & entered the State service as a Captain of a Galley, during the Revolutionary war sometime during the year 1776, that when I enlisted & went to the south during the said war in 1778, he was then in service & continued in the Navy, until the British Fleet came up in York River which was in August 1781, which prevented the Gallies from rendering any effective  effectual service. I cannot recollect what were the periods of his enlistments, but presume it was for & during the war, that after he had served in the war as stated above, he returned to his farm in Gloucester, on Severn River & there remained until he died.
Henry Buchanan
York County to wit:
This day personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace in & for the said county, Henry Buchanan whose name is subscribed to the foregoing certificate, and made oath according to law as to the correctness of the statements as set forth in the said certificate & I do hereby certify that any statement made by the said Henry Buchanan is entitled to full faith & credit. Given under my hand & seal this 8 th day of Octo: 1833
J. C. Russell J.P. (Seal)
Norfolk Nov r 7 th 1791. I do hereby certify that Robert Tompkins commanded the Henry Galley in the service of this state during the late war & died in the said service having served more above three years.
John Surtey a Capt. in the State Navy
Virginia
Virginia Set:
I do hereby certify that Christopher Tompkins served during the late war, in the service of this State, as a Lieutenant on board the Brig Northampton under me & that

he served in said service for three years and upwards Given under my hand the 7 th day of Nov r 1791
John Surtey
Captain in the State Navy
I do certify that Christopher Tompkins was the heir of Robert Tompkins dec d and that said Christopher Tompkins died since the 1 st Jany: 1787 leaving children - Given under my hand the 7 th of November 1791
Rob. Brough
Executive Department June 20 1835
The foregoing encl es of papers filed in this department
Geo. Richardson Secy Com te

X 1614 Martha Damerer wid of B. G. Damerer Va Ad 7 July 1838
Mathews Co. No. 102 Sept. 17-1838-3
Free
1614
J. S. Edwards Esq. Com. of Pensions Washington City D.C.
3636
State

State of Virginia Borough of Norfolk.
On this 12 th day of September 1838 personally appeared before me Mr. Kirke Nelson  an open Court of the Borough a presiding  Virginia Virginia in the said Borough State Martha Dameron Aged Seventy three 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 provisions made by the act of Congress passed July 7 th 1838 entitled an act granting halfpay and pensions to certain Widows. — That she was the widow of Lieut. Christopher Tompkins who was a Lieut in the Virginia State Navy a greater part of the war of the Revolution, — That she lived in Hampton at the time she was married, and where she lived until the year of 1785 and then she moved to Norfolk Virginia, where she married Emma foras Dameron her late husband in July 1796 who died on the 5 th day of May 1799 with the Decline
She further Declares that she was married to the said Christopher Tompkins on the 13 th day of March One Thousand seven hundred and Eighty Three That her husband the aforesaid Christopher Tompkins died in the fall of one thousand seven hundred and Eighty Nine; that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the the Service but the Marriage took place previous to the first of January Seventeen hundred and Ninety four Viz. at the time above stated
Martha Dameron

State of Virginia } Borough of Norfolk } ss
This day personally appeared before me M c King Mayor for the said Borough, Martha Cameron formerly the widow of Christopher Tompkins, and made oath to the within declaration that it contains the truth to the best of her knowledge and belief, and I do hereby Certify that all Statements made by her are entitled to full faith, and given from under my hand and seal this 12 th day of September 1838 M c King Mayor.
State of Virginia, Borough of Norfolk ss:
I John Williams Clerk of the Hustings Court of the Borough of Norfolk in the State of Virginia, do hereby certify M c King Esquire, before whom the above affidavit was made, as Mayor of the said Borough, duly elected and qualified that he is authorized to administer an oath that full faith and credit is due to all his acts as such and that the signature "M c King" above is in his proper hand writing as I do verily be- lieve. In Testimony whereof I hereto set my hand and affix the seal of the said Court this twelfth day of September in the year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and thirty eight, and of the Com- monwealth the sixty third. Jno. Williams

Mathews Co Virginia Sept 16 th 1838
Dear
Sir I hear with kind you the Declaration of Mar the Cameron formerly the widow of Lieut Christopher Tompkins under the act of July 7 th 1838. you will Examine the case and in form me again as possible Yours. Respectfully
George Kirwan
var upton she moved Omaha 6
Mr James L Edwards Washington City D.C.

V2756 Act. 4 th July '36 Martha Dameron Wid of Clust. Tompkins

State of Virginia Borough of Norfolk } ss
On this 29 th day of July, 1837 personally appeared before me W. King Mayor of the Borough of Norfolk Virginia Martha Dameron a resident of Norfolk & State of Virginia aged seventy two 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 4 th 1836 and the act explanatory of said act passed March 3 rd 1837 That she was married to Christopher Sompkins who was a Lieutenant in the Virginia Navy on board the Henry Galap Captain Robert Sompkins commander on York River That she lived in Hampton at the time she was married at which time he belonged to the said service and that she lived in Hampton till 1785 and then moved to Norfolk when deceased Oraneforus Dameron in July 1796
She further Declares That she was married to the said Christopher Sompkins on the 13 th day of March 1783 and that her husband the aforesaid Christopher Sompkins died in the fall of 1789 That she was afterwards married to Oraneforus Dameron who died on the 5 th of May 1799 with the Decline and that she was a widow on the 4 th July 1836 and still remains a widow as will more fully appear by reference to the proof here to annexed.
Martha Dameron
Seal

State of Virginia } ss. Borrough of Norfolk }
on this day, personall appeared Martha Darnison,
before me a Justice of the Peace for and in Said Borrough of Norfolk, and sworn to the within Declaration to be true to the best of her Knowledge, and I do here by certify That she is a old Respectfull Resident of this Town and worthy of full credit, and cannot attend the Court on account of bodily infirmity Given from under my hand and Seal This 29 th day of July 1837.
M. King Mayor.

Norfolk February 26 th 1851.
Dear Sir.
By a letter from John S. Gallagher Esq, Third Auditor dated the 10 th inst I am informed that several persons within the last month have made enquiries concerning the claim of Lieut. Christopher Tompkins who served in the State Navy during the Revolutionary war, and fearing lest some unprincipled persons might institute a claim for what is due his legal heirs, I beg leave to state that the necessary papers to prove our kinship (myself being one of them) and substantiate the claim will soon be prepared and forwarded to you for your decision.
Very respectfully
Your obedient Servant Christopher Tompkins
James E. Heath Esq Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

This is my Will -
I am concerned in a claim against the government of the U. S. for the services of my first husband, Christopher B. Campkins - Mr. Poirier is prosecuting it -
I give (if my claim is recovered) five hundred dollars to my son in law Amy & Cameron - to John Hunter (to be used by him as I have directed) One hundred dollars - To the Corporation of Norfolk Boro: for the use of the poor of said Boro, one hundred dollars - and the balance to my son in law David Duncan (of Randolph Macon College) for his sole benefit -
Witness
Norfolk W. January 16. 1838.
John Croft
Martha Cameron
Seal
Ann S. Hall.
Norfolk Borough.
At a Hustings Court continued and held the 2 nd day of October 1842. This last Will and Testament of Martha Cameron deceased was proved by the oaths of John Croft and the affirmation of Ann S. Hall the witnesses thereto and ordered to be recorded. And there being no Executor appointed by the said Will and the said Testatrix having been dead for more than three months and no person applying for administration on her estate. On the motion of David Duncan it is ordered that the Sergeant of this Borough take into his possession the estate of the said Martha Cameron deceased and administer the same according to Law and the provisions of the said Will.
Hart, Geo. Williams (Seal)
State of Virginia Norfolk Borough ss.
I John Williams Clerk of the Hustings Court of the Borough of Norfolk in the State of Virginia do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the last Will and Testament of Martha Cameron deceased of record in the said Hustings Court.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Hustings Court this twelfth day of January Eighteen hundred and forty three in the sixty fourth year of the Commonwealth.
Geo. Williams (Seal)

Respectfully submitting to Bart. Ld. Vans loss of pension, & ask as a favor that he will give me any information he can on the subject before writing letter with proposal to Attorney to Rep.
Woodstock 1878.
W. H. C. H. Newburgh
Hon. Archibald Atkinson
FILE

Nashville March 28 th 1848
H on Archibald Atkinson
Dr Sir
Mrs Martha Dameron who died in July 1842 by her last Will and Testament bequeathed certain legacies to be paid out of a claim which she had against the U. States for services of her first Husband Christopher Tompkins who was a Lieut. in the Navy in the Revolutionary War during her life time she put the claim in the hands of Mr. Thornton Broom of Mathews County Ga to collect as her agent; Mr. Broom proceeded to collect the evidence to establish the claim and I have understood he filed the papers in the Pension or proper office at Washington since the death of Mr. Dameron no particular attention has been given to it, Mr. Broom was of opinion that she ought to have rec d . it during her life from some act. or acts of Congress which applied to her claim, I have conversed with Com. Barron who knew Mr. Tompkins when in the service, I observe that an act has been offered by Congress on the 2 d Feb. last respecting widows of Revolutionary soldiers, being one of the legatees named in the will, not being acquainted in Washington and having no agent there I have taken the liberty of addressing you requesting you if it will not interfere with your duties in Congress to examine into or make the enquiry into the claim and give me your opinion

and if you should report favourable will you accept an agency to collect it, not being acquaint- ed with you I refer to Dr Wilson and Mr A Wilson Esq
Very Respectfully your Obt Servt Oney. S Cameron
I have not accepted any Agency for pay aa

Rev. and 1812 Wars Section MCS/eel
February 19, 1929
Miss Josephine Yeatman 220 Belvedere Street Lynchburg, Virginia
Madam:
I advise you in the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, R.2636, it is alleged that Christopher B. Tompkins , the son of Robert, while a resident of Gloucester County, Virginia, enlisted in 1775 or 1776, and served as a Lieutenant in the Virginia State Navy; he served on the galley "Henry", under his father, Captain Robert Tompkins, and also served over three years on the brig "Northampton", under Captain John Lurtey.
Original papers showing statement of Com. Barron as to soldier not stated),
He married, March 13, 1783, Martha (her maiden name
resignation in 1779 and not in
children, their names not stated. designated
case so D made no
His widow, Martha, married in July, 1796, Omaneforus or Omnaforas Dameron , and he died, May 5, 1799.
reference to soldier's resignation in 1779 year
In July, 1837, she was seventy-two years of age and was living in Norfolk, Virginia.

Said Martha applied for pension as the widow of Christopher Tompkins but the claim was not allowed as her case did not come within the provisions of the acts under which she applied.
In 1838, she referred to David Duncan, of Randolph Macon College and Oney S. Dameron as her sons-in-law.
She died in July, 1842.
In 1851, Christopher Tompkins, of Norfolk, stated that he was the heir of Lieutenant Christopher Tompkins, relationship not stated.
This is the history of the only Christopher Tompkins that is found on the Revolutionary War records of this bureau.
The Revolutionary War records fail to afford any information in regard to any Thomas or Thomas Muse Yeatman, or to James and Joseph Gilmore and Robert Irvine as described by you.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT Commissioner.

know all men by these presents that I Martha Dameron
do by these presents appoint John Boren of the county of Mathews & State of Virginia my agent and at- torney for me and in my name and stead to demand & receive from the Register of the Land Office of Virginia any and all Warrants for Bounty Lands to which I may be entitled on account of the services of Christopher Tompkins as Lieut. in the Navy in the Revolutionary War, and my said agent and attorney is hereby authorized to sell, transfer or surrender all such Warrants to any person who may purchase or be authorized to accept the same, and to receive therefor any Money, certificates of stock or other equivalent, or substitutes or consideration and in any and all ways to control and dispose of the same in as full and ample a manner as I could do if personally present. The meaning of this deed is to invest my said agent with full powers to assert and obtain my rights to all Lands, commutation pay, half pay or to any and all bounties due from Virginia or the United States, for the services of the said Christopher Tompkins as afore said in the revolutionary war. My said agent & attorney shall have power to appoint one or more substitutes under him with the aforesaid powers, and all his or their acts I will ratify and confirm by these presents and my said agent John Boren as aforesaid may retain out of the proceeds of said Warrants his expenses, or money due.
Shelby

Thereof as compensation for his services and expenses, for which this deed shall be a lien; and the power
shall irrevocable
Witness my hand & seal this 29th day of
July 1837
Martha Cameron
Sealed & Delivered
in the presence of
George Whirnsan
W Davis
State of Virginia Borough County of Norfolk
{ ss This day
Mrs Martha Cameron this day
personally appeared before me a justice of the peace and in the said Borough County and so acknowledged
the foregoing Power of Attorney to be their her free act and
deeds, witness my hand & seal this 29th day of July - 1837
M. King, Major.

George Kirwan Esq.
June 20. 1838
H. C.

Department of War Pension Office June 20. 1838
Sir
In reply to your letter, asking the reason why the claim of Mr. Martha Cameron was rejected, I have to state, that the grounds of its rejection were, that her former husband, Christopher Thompson, performed no service after his marriage, which took place in 1783.
The law provides for those only whose husbands were married before the termination of the last term of their service. Mr. Thompson resigned in 1779. I am,
W Geo Kirwan Matthew C. A. Virginia
OC.

185
9
Mar 64
Onch 6 W B g.
Pension office.
Martha Dameron Va. Care
look at this!
Secy of War
Hon. J. R. Poinsett
FREE
from post

Norfolk March 2. 1839.
Hon. J. R. Poinsett Sec of War.
Sir. Mrs Martha Damron, of this place, who was formerly the widow of Christopher Tompkins deceased who belonged to the Revolutionary Navy, is an applicant for a pension under the late Acts of Congress. Her application is I understand preferred by a Mr Boorum of Virginia as her Attorney, who by contract made with Mrs D. is to receive one half as a compensation for his services. Mrs D. is a very aged and infirm lady, residing alone. Her friend & protector David Duncan, having removed from this place, and there is no doubt of the fact that Mrs D. is wholly incompetent from her age and infirmities to make a contract binding on her. Mr Boorum did not consult with her friends, & those who heard of his proposals advised the old lady to reject them. She herself is now anxious to annul the contract and to allow to Boorum a reasonable compensation for his services. David Duncan who was constituted her General Attorney in January 1836, & is fully authorized by it as well as by his relation to her to act for her in all matters has requested me to represent these facts to the proper Department, that the money, if any, which may be awarded Mrs D. shall not be paid to Mr Boorum. It is due to myself & Mr D. to say, that I have no connexion with this claim & that all that is proposed by this course is to put it in Mrs Damron's power to save herself from this exorbitant claim by Mr Boorum for his services, which in the event of recovery will be liberally rewarded.

I do not know the nature of the claim or whether there is any probability of a recovery - Boersma has I learn always represented the claim to be certain & but little trouble or difficulty in the recovery of it - with him I have no acquaintance & would not wish to be understood by this application to impeach his integrity - I concur with Mr. Duncan however in the prospects of this matter - and would ask the favor of you to give this letter such a direction as will ensure the attainment of the proposed object - so that I may be advised of the necessary steps for that purpose - Mrs. Duncan as I have observed is incapable of making a contract so that it would not be proper to obtain from her a formal revocation of her power to Boersma and I conceive that a mere intimation of the facts here stated would be sufficient to induce the Government from paying the amount to Boersma until further investigated.
I am very respectfully, &c. & c. Easewell, Taylor
Attorney at law. Norfolk V.

very del
June 28
Comr
J. L. Edwards Esquire Commissioner
Pension office War Dept. Present

Washington City. D.C. June 27 th 1859
Sir
Permit us respectfully to submit to your decision the claim of the widow of Christopher Josephs, a Lieut in the Va State Navy during the Revolution, for a Pension under such act of Congress as you may consider her to be entitled to the same.
Plan to excuse us for calling your attention particularly to the evidence and the law of her case. The Witnesses who testify are all of the highest respectability and without the most distant interest in the claim and the fact of Lieut Josephs having served to the end of the war and after his marriage in March 1783 with the present claimant is as clearly and as positively proven by parol testimony as any fact can be - Commodore Barron is positive that he was in the service after his marriage and his testimony attentively examined with the other depositions not only establishes that fact, but the fact of his being in the service to the close of the war . These facts are not contradicted by the record proof but are consistent with that kind of proof - It is a

rule of Law and of equity, that where evidence appears to be contradictory, that the expounder ought to so construe it, as to reconcile if possible the apparent contradictions, so as to give effect to the whole. In the present case, if there be any contradiction between the record evidence and the parol , which we cannot see there is, it is easily reconciled—
The only evidence of resignation , is contained in the record stating that he continued in the service as Lieut. on board the Henry Gally until 14 th September 1779 (not January) when he resigned— as Commodore Baron remarks in his deposition, this record was intended to speak only of his resignation on board the Henry gally, for Capt. John Surtz of the Navy certifies upon 7 th Nov r 1791 that Christopher Tompkins served on board the Brig North Hampton under him, as his Lieut. and as such was in the service for upwards of three years, and as Capt. Surtz was appointed to the command in 1778, it must have been subsequent to the resignation of Lieut. on board the Henry Gally in September 1779, and a Certificate of a Commanding officer given nearly forty years ago as to this fact, when the Law under which the present claim is made, was not thought of, ought to be satisfactory without the strong and respectable corroborating depositions of the very Honorable and unimpeached testimony of the other Witnesses . We also respectfully state, that parol evidence

of the high character offered in this case has always been received as conclusive as to the time of service in the courts of Virginia in similar cases and will you reject that testimony which would be satisfactory to their courts in a similar claim, when the act of Congress expressly declares it satisfactory?
All that we respectfully ask you in the case, is to view it, clear of any former impressions and be fully satisfied that the claim will be allowed.
But should you reject it upon the ground we have placed it, we ask the allowance of the pension under the act of 1838 and most certainly the evidence is amply sufficient for that object and to obtain it a declaration is filed with the papers. Our Client is old and very infirm and a little to her now, will comfort the last days of her existence and if she can obtain the pension under the Law of 1838, it will be a great relief to her, nor do we consider that her allowance under that Law and the circumstances of her case, will deprive her from obtaining the pension first asked, from Congress, should you feel yourself compelled to reject it, which we cannot believe you will.
We respectfully ask your attention to this matter —
P.S. Should the pension be allowed please to enclose the Certificate to us and we will forward it to the Widow as promised
with the greatest respect and esteem
Present & Present atts for the Widow

No. 1450
ACT OF MARCH 3, 1855.
Received _____, 187_____.
Navy. Martha Dameron, former Widow of Christopher Tompkins Lieutenant U S Navy, Revolution

Christopher Tompkins dec d .
act 5 July 1832
Rejected. See letter to John Borum Nov. 2 nd . 1842

March 31, 1848
Aug. Mrs. Martha Henson
consumptive
Stacy
Charlotte Harbor
Howe N. Atkinson
Great Narrows
Devolution
a Atkinson
6
Port. Id. 200000
cons of panacea
Washington
del.

Lib H. Northup July 5, 1842
See let. 27 Aug. 1842 Northup do. 29 Oct 42 let. 7 Sept. 42 T. Taylor
John Borum Jan Feb 2, 1850,
to the Hon. G. W. Jones Feb 2 1857
Martha Cameron wid. of Christopher Tompkins - Reg. act of July 7, 1838
George Kirwan June 20 1838 do do J. A. Dickinson Aug Sept. 3, 1838 - do. to J. Borum & W. Tod, Feb. 18, 1839 - do. to F. Taylor Mar 22, 1839 - do. to Brent & Dorsey June 28, 1839 - 1838 1838 let to H. J. Carr ap. 1840 Hon. M c Bell June 15, 1841
Susp. See letter to Sec. War Aug. 9, 1841 over

Conr Feb 12.
Martha Darnes via
James L. Edwards Esq Comm te of Pensions Washington

Richmond Senate Chamber July 12 th 1839
Sir,
Before I received your letter of the 8 th inst in reply to mine of the 31 st ultimo: it had occurred to me that I had committed a misnomer in relation to the case about which I was desirous of obtaining information & avail myself of the earliest opportunity to tender my apologies of the unnecessary trouble which my blunder has imposed upon you. I have no personal interest in this matter, nor did I ever have in any similar case, having my habit to use when acting for a friend I concealment. The case I had in view was that of Martha Darnson who was widow of Ch s Tompkins an officer in the Virginia Navy in the Revolution. It was in that case that I filed the amended deposition of Commodore Barron upon which you promised a review of the case & to communicate to me the result which I now respectfully ask you to do.
Yours very respect d W. Lloyd

F. A. Dickens
3 Sept '38
06

Department of War Pension Office Sept. 3. 1838
Sir
I return herewith, the letter of Mr. Kurnan upon the subject of the claim of Mr. Martha Dameron, widow of Christopher Tompkins, dec d . and have to state, that I have examined the additional testimony furnished in support of Mr. the Tompkins' service subsequent to March 1783, the date of their marriage and find it wholly unsatisfactory.
Mr. Dameron's may possibly claim may be embraced by the act of July 7. 1838.
I do not find the proof of Hester Spicker of a Mr. Kurnan's letter of the 11th of Elizabeth - Armistead, dec d .
J. H. Dickery Esq. Present.
Sir
OL Act 4 July

Mar 22
for Cases.
by Capt Geo Bonner
Mr James L Edwards Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.

18 th 1838 Matthews County Virginia March
Dear
Per Shear with Enclose you some copys of Record from Richmond, Va Deposition of Col d James Barron all in support of the Claim of Martha Barron formerly widow of Lieut. Christopher Tompkins Esq.
Some time in December last I allowed you the Declaration of Arvilla Owen former ly widow of Francis Miller Esq., I have never heard of it but that you have Recd them or not, If you have you will pleas inform me, and also examine the above claims and inform me by Capt John Borum the Bar- er, on his return from Washington, I also doing you will much oblige, yours Respectfully
Georget H. Kirwan
Mr James S Edward Washington City D.C.

Mathews 6.86
Sept 30 Sept. 25
2756
pa-
4 July '36 Office
Free
Mr. James L. Edwards, Commi- -sioner of Pensions Washington City D. C.

Mathews County Va Sept 23 rd 1837
Dear Sir
I herewith enclose you the Declaration of Martha Dameron and formerly widow of Lieutenant Christopher Tompkins in the Virginia Navy with the copy of the Marriage Bond, and the Depositions of James Webb, and John S Westward which you will please let me know whether they is any survisus of record in Washington. I beg you to write me as soon as convenient, and in so doing you will much oblige yours Respectfully
George W. Kirwan
M rs James L Edwars
Washington City D. C.

Capt J Bonner Nov 23. 1842

Pension Office
199
November 23. 1842
Sir,
I have examined and filed the papers which you sent to this Office in the case of the heirs of the late Christopher Tompkins, deceased. It appears that he was a Lieutenant in the Navy of the State of Virginia, and resigned in the month of January 1779. The act of Congress of the 5 th July 1832, under which this claim is presented, does not allow half-pay to the representatives of any Officer who resigned. The claim cannot therefore be allowed. The claim for bounty land is also rejected. The U. States does not grant bounty land to any Officer who was not in the continental service. The Commissioner of the General Land Office will give you the necessary information relative to scrip, on your application to him.
Captain John Borum, Mathews C.H. Virginia.
Enter this on Reg. act 5 th July 1832 Vra. case

A. Northrup
August 27. 1842

Pen: Office
#16
Aug t 27 1842
Sir,
The power of ally and the note from N. L. Brooke Esq r to you in the case of M rs Martha S Cameron formerly widow of Christopher Tompkins are herewith returned. The declarations now on file in her case are not sufficient. She should make a new declaration under act 7 July 1838 and the amendment thereto of the 23 Aug t 1842. There does not appear to be any testimony on file with her declaration in support of the service of her first husband and of her marriage. The testimony heretofore exhibited should be again sent to the office with her new declaration.
H. Northrup Esq r Pres t .
✓ 1614 at 38

6. Sep 1842 Mr. Allison
483
J. L. Edwards Esq. former of Pensylvania Washington St.

12 Edward St Con. Penn. com.
Norfolk Sept 3. 1842.
Dr Sir
Mrs Duncan the widow of Christopher Tomkins has recently died. If alive, she would be entitled to the benefit of the act recently passed extending the benefit of the act of July 1838. to those widows who married again.
I have been requested to write you on this to ascertain if her representatives can claim the portion to which she if alive would be entitled. My impression is that it is a lapsed legacy .
I am resp. Your obs. serv.
Fazewell. Taylor

Fazelle Taylor
Sep. 7 '42

76 P'm Offin
Sept. 7. 1842
Sir, In reply to your letter of the 3 rd inst. in the case of Mrs. Martha Damerson, lately deceased widow formerly widow of Christopher Tompkins decd., I have to inform you that her representatives are not entitled to a pension, the  not being entitled to the benefits  of a pension in virtue of her husband's service  the law in virtue of her husband's service  which did not entitle her to a pension  because the amount of her claim
Tazewell Taylor Esq. Norfolk, Va.
O.C. 1614 at 38

Pensai Office July 5. 1842.
31
Sir,
In reply to your enquiry respecting the case of Martha Dameron, I have to inform you that the following extract from a letter to the late Secretary of War of the 15 th of June 1841 last, will shew the reasons for not admitting the claim:
"Agréably to your order I have the honor to make you the following report upon the case of Martha Dameron, who claims for the services of her first husband, Christopher Tompkins, Lieut. of the Virginia Navy. The act of the 4 th of July 1836 provides for those only whose marriage took place before the expiration of the service of their respective husbands. In this case the records (which no parol testimony can be received to controvert) show that Lt. Tompkins resigned in 1779, and upon oath in September 1838 before the Mayor of Norfolk she avowed that "she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service". The proofs in her case clearly establish the date of the marriage in March 1783; and consequently, as Lieut. Tompkins was not in service as shown by the records and her own declaration under oath, after March 1783, she can have no claim under the act of 4 th July 1836. The act of 7 th July 1838 provides for those only who were at the date of its passage the widows of the Officers and Soldiers, respectively who rendered the services for which their several claims are asserted. Hence by the second marriage she is not embraced by the provisions of this act." The foregoing are the only acts awarding pensions to the widows of revolutionary officers and soldiers. In this

case it may be proper to remark that the claim under the act of 4 th July 1836, if allowed, would amount to $3600; and has been urged from 1837 to this time by various attorneys, who have uniformly received the same answer. There is reason to believe that it has been most still is urged exclusively by one who agreeably to the information in file, has bargained with the claimant for one half as a compensation for his services. If the claim should be allowed, it would be the duty of the Department, upon the above information, to secure the payment directly to the claimant or to some member of his family.
The papers which you left here this morning, are herewith returned. I am very respectfully
Your Obedt Servt Very respectfully
Yours cordially
(Signed) J. L. Edmiston
Henry Northup July 5. 1842.
Henry Northup Esq, Pres.
Mr. John Bell, Secretary of War.

Aug 20. 1842
via Lunc Martha Dameron
to be delivered for the purpose within
J Edwards Esq r
Commissioner of Customs
Present

Washington City 17th of August 1842
Sir
Some month or six weeks ago I called on you at the request of Henry L Brooke of Newbern and be with a power of attorney from Ellen the Daughter of said path. To him Brooke to prosecute her Pension claim etc. In your answer returning the power of attorney you stated that the claim for Pension under the Act of 4th of July 1836 was not sustained that her marriage was after his services ended. In that letter you did not state any other objection I therefore infer that the evidence of rank and time served. Marriage Death of the officer and life of the widow was all satisfactorily shown but that the period when married precluded a pension under the Act of 4th of July 1836. and the second marriage precluded a pension under the Act of 7th of July 1837. That objection is now removed as will be in a day or two. I therefore being about to leave the City for a few days enclose this power of attorney to you and also a note from Ellen Brooke to me when in this City a few days ago -
Will you Sir do me the kindness to take up Ellen's Pension case as early as practicable after the law shall have passed and if passed enclose me the Certificate and a copy of this power of attorney (unless you are willing to return the original) as I should have any object in the papers or any fine there rendered wanted advise me of it and oblige me Yours respectfully Henry Chase Tharp
Ellen
The power of attorney is not authorized with any public Seal but I presume it is fully satisfactory for the delivery of the Pension Certificate being the receipt of that which cannot by possibility injure Ellen's claim as President Brooke says if not in any court it is an order signed and attested and this will answer

Hon. John Bell August 9 th 1841
ab.
..
H
173
Oct 2nd 1841

Pension Office August 9 th 1841
Sir:
I have the honor to enclose herewith a copy of my report of the 26 th of June last in the case of Martha Dameron. The evidence then required in the case was merely what had been before called for in the reports previously made. No additional proof has been filed since the date of that report.
Hon. John Bell Sec. of War
No. 2756 act '36 Va. case

In: off June 15 th 41
Sir
Agreeably to your order I have the honor to make you the following report upon the case of Mrs Martha Cameron who claims for the services of her first husband Christopher Tompkins Lt of the N a Navy. The act of 4 July '36 provides for those only whose marriage took place before the expiration of the service of their respective husbands. In this case the records (which no parol testimony can be received to controvert) shew that Lt Tompkins resigned in '79 and has  upon oath in Sept '38 before the Mayor of Norfolk she averred that "she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service". The proofs in her case clearly establish the date of the marriage in March 1783. and consequently as Lt Tompkins was not in service as shewn by the records & her own declaration under oath, after March 1783 she can have no claim under the

How John Bell June 15-1841 1841
act of 4 July '36 -
The act of 7 July '38 provides for those only who were at the date of its passage the widows of the officers & soldiers respectively who ren-  for whose ded the services for which their several claims are asserted. None by her second marriage she is not embraced by the provisions of this act. The foregoing are the only acts awarding pensions to the widows of rev'dy Off & Soldiers -
In this case it may be proper to remark that the claim under the act of 4 July '36 if allowed would amount to $3600. and has been urged from 1837 to this time by various attorneys ays  who who have uniformly rec'd the same answer. There is reason to believe that it has been & is still urged exclusively by one who agreeably to the information on file has bargained with the claimant for one half as a compensation  in consideration for his services. If the claim should  could be allowed above it would be the duty of the Dept. upon the information to secure the payment directly to her or to some member of her family -
Hon. John Bell
Secy of War.
I have the honor

Brent & Brent
June 28, 1889.
O:6

War Dept o
483.
Pension Office
June 28. 1839
Gentlemen,
In reply to your letter of the yesterday's date, I have to inform you that the Dept. adheres to its decision in the case of Christopher Tompkins's widow. She was married in March 1783, and Tompkins resigned in 1779. The case is not embraced by the act of July 4. 1836. under our rules, no As evidence can be received to contradict the record evidence as to his resignation.
Under the act of July, 7. 1838 she is not entitled to a pension, because that law extends to none who married after the death of the husband on account of whose service the claim is presented, and it appears that Tompkins wid as was after his death married to O. Dameron.
Messrs Brent & Brent, Attorneys at Law, Present.
✓ No. 1641 '38 act '38 ✓ No. 2756 - act '36

Tazewell Taylor
May 22 1839
Ob,

War Dep
Pension Office
May 22. 1839
Sir,
Your letter in relation to the case of Mrs Martha Dameron was received some time since, and would have met with an earlier reply, but for the great press of business in this office. My letter of the 18 th of February last, to Mr Borum, a copy of which is herewith enclosed, will show that the claim of Mrs Dameron has been rejected.
✓
Farzwell Taylor, Esq Norfolk Va
No 2756 act 36. No 1614 act 38 act 36

J. Brown &
M. God
18. Feb. 1839
C C

War Dep Pension Office Feb. 18. 1839
Sir;
The statement of Commodore Barron, in the case of Mrs. Martha Damerson, who was widow of the late Lieut. Christopher Tompkins, has been examined and filed. The record shews that Mr. Tompkins resigned on the 14 th January, 1779, and the evidence must  govern the Dept t in its decision.  be received to substantiate it. His having turned out on a particular occasion under a call made by Commodore Barron's father could not have been under a commission from the State of Virginia. As the marriage took place in March 1783, Mr. Damerson's claim cannot be admitted under the act of July 4. 1836.
Capt. John Borum, of Virginia Matthew Present. William Tod Esq. Richmond Va
n o . 1614 136 act July

Nº 101
ACT OF FEBRUARY 14, 1871.
WAR OF 1812.
3328
Heirs of Christopher Tompkins Lt
Va Navy Revolution
Discharged _____, 18
6028
H 7 Pay _____ act-32
Received _____, 187
101,
Attorney.

Her representatives are not entitled. She was not entitled to the benefits of any law in existence when she died

Christopher Tompkins
Actd 5 July 1831 1832.
Rev: E. Heath Esq
Yours Le
Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.

John Brown Feb 2, 1850

Superior Office February 2, 1850
Sir,
In reply to your letter of this date, I have to inform you that no pension has been allowed to Mrs Martha Cameron, for the revolutionary services of her husband Christopher Poepke's
John Borum, Secy. Esq., Present,
(p 115)

Mr. Samson
Henk Samson vervolg
Capt. J. Borum Matheus off ge

City of Norfolk Feby 5 1845
This day personally appeared before me Mayor of the City of Norfolk Sarah Davis of the said City and stated that she was personally acquainted with Martha Dammon for thirty years and that she resided in Norfolk during that period, and visited the said Martha Dammon, that she never heard nor does she believe that she was at any time deranged. Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and date above named
Sarah Davis
Given under my hand and seal this 5 th day of Feby 1845,
(W. D. Delany) Mayor
City of Norfolk Feby 5 th 1845
This day personally appeared before me Mayor of the City of Norfolk John Cross who stated that he knew Martha Dammon that she was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, that she lived in his neighbourhood and that he was called and did witness her will, that he never heard of her being deranged, and has no cause to doubt but that she was perfectly sane when he witnessed her will. Sworn to and subscribed before me on this day and date above mentioned
John Cross
Given under my hand and seal this 5 th day of Feby 1845
(W. D. Delany) Mayor -

State of Virginia City of Norfolk to wit:
I John Williams Clerk of the Hustings Court of the City of Norfolk in the state of Virginia do hereby Certify that William R Kilany, who has given the two preceding Certificates is the Mayor of the said City, duly elected and qualified, that by virtue of his said Office of Mayor he is a Justice of the peace in and for the said City, that his name "Wm R. Kilany" thereto subscribed is, as I do verily believe in his proper hand writing, and that full faith and credit are due to all his official acts.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Hustings Court this fifteenth day of February Eighteen hundred and forty six in the Seventeenth year of the Commonwealth.
John Williams

July 2/57
Comm te Pensions Washington D.C.

Washington Feb 2, 1850
Dr Sir,
Will you do me the favor to inform me whether the claim of Martha Cameron for a pension has ever been allowed. Mrs Cameron was formerly the widow of Lieut Christopher Tompkins of the Pa State Navy. I presented the claim for Mrs D. in her life time and have heard that it was allowed, but has not yet been paid. I still have authority from her to act in the case. Your early reply to the above enquiring will oblige Very Respectfully Your Obedt Servt
John Brown Sen d
Col J. L. Edwards Comt. Pension

1929 Feb. 19 hist. to Miss Josephine Yeaman. U.C.S.
Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.
2636
P. O. _____
Martha Cameron
Service: _____
Enlisted: _____, 18 .
Discharged: _____, 18 .
REJECTED
Application filed: _____, 18 .
Alleges: _____
Re-enlisted: _____
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18 .

220 Belvedere Street, Lynchburg, Virginia. May 15, 1928.
Commissioner of Pensions, Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
Please be kind enough to furnish me with data concerning pensions or other information regarding service in the Revolutionary War of the following, all from Virginia:
Capt. Christopher Tompkins, Mathews or Gloucester county
Thomas Yeatman, Westmoreland or Lancaster county
Thomas Muse Yeatman, Westmoreland or Mathews county
Major William Paxton, Rockbridge county
Joseph Gilmore, Rockbridge county
James Gilmore, Rockbridge county
Robert Irvine, Rockbridge county
Respectfully,
Josephine Yeatman
(Miss Josephine Yeatman, 220 Belvedere Street, Lynchburg, Va