Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File S. 43996, for Benjamin Thompson, Massachusetts

SERVICE
NUMBER _____
massi.
Thompson, Benjamin
S. 43996
CONTENTS

20.435
New Hampshire
Benjamin Thompson
of Merrimack in the State of N. Hampshire who was a private in the company commanded by Captain Oliver of the Regiment commanded by Colonel Keyes in the Massachusetts line, for the term of three years, from April 1779 to 1780
Inscribed on the Roll of New Hampshire at the rate of eight Dollars per month, commence on the 17 th day of April 1832
Certificate of Pension issued the 23 of April 1832 and sent to Hon: J. M. Harper, House of Reps.
Arrears to 4th of Sept. 1832 $ 36.61 Semi-ann. all'ce ending
$ 36.61
{ Revolutionary Claim Acts March 18, 1818 and May 1, 1820.
Rec. Book D.
Vol. 1. fol. 157, Sept. 3
In letter July 14 1832 to the Hon Isaac Hall
Dead
Paid at the Treasury under the act of the 6 th April 1838 from 11 th Sept 1837 to 9 th Dec 1837 the day of his death Age notified 30 Jan 1839

TREASURY DEPARTMENT.
Second Comptroller's Office,
January 22, 1839.
Sir:
Under the act of the 6th of April, 1833 entitled "An act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury of the United States," The children of Benj. Thompson, a Pensioner on the Roll of the Concord, N. Hamp te Agency, at the rate of eight Dollars and  Cents per month  annum , under the law of the 18 th March, 1878, has been paid at this Department, from the 4 th of Sept., 1837, to the 9 th December, 1837, the day of his death.
Respectfully, yours,
Wilson N. Parrish Comptroller.
To the Commissioner of Pensions, Present.

Ben Thompson's Declaration for pension

State of New Hampshire. County of Merrimack ss:
On this Seventeenth day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two, personally appeared in open court, to wit, in the court of Common Pleas for said County of Merrimack, being a court of record, proceeding according to the course of common law, with a jurisdiction unlimited in point of amount and keeping a record of its proceedings, Benjamin Thompson of Andover in said county, and resident in said county, Esquire, aged seventy seven years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the acts of Congress, of the 18 th March 1818, and the first of May 1820: - That he the said Benjamin Thompson enlisted for the term of three years in the month of April 1778 in the Company commanded by Captain Oliver in Col. Grattan's Regiment in the Massachusetts line on the continental establishment. That he continued to serve in said Regiment, and for the most of the time in General Vinton's Life Guard, until about the first of June 1779 when, by reason of sickness, he was permitted to return home on furlough, and remained sick and unable to do duty for more than twelve months, and was afterwards regularly discharged by order of General Vinton, which discharge he has forwarded to the War Department. That he hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension except the present - That his name is not on the roll of any State except the State of New Hampshire. Applicant - That in September 1818 he

applied to be placed on the Pension Roll - and again in February 1823. and ever since has prosecuted his claim.
And. in pursuance of the act of first of May 1820. I do solemnly swear, that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18 th day of March 1818, and that I have not, since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner, disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress, entitled, "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary War," passed on the 18 th day of March 1818; and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property, or securities, contracts or debts due to me; nor have I any income other than what is contained in the schedule hereto annexed, and by me subscribed.
Since the 18 th of March 1818 the following change has been made in my property - To wit, at that time I owned a cow, and in 1823 I exchanged her for a two year old heifer which was the same heifer mentioned in my declaration made on the eleventh day of February 1823. and the same heifer that is now a cow as mentioned in my present schedule. - I do not recollect any other change of any consequence that has taken place in my property since March 1818. My family consists of myself and

my wife who is seventy two years of age. We are both infirm, and able to do but little towards our support, and depend on our friends for assistance. We are truly in need of the assistance of our country.
Ben Thompson
The State of NewHamps
Merimack ss.
Sworn to and declared on the Seventeenth Day of April A 1832 before the Justices of the Court of Common Pleas within and for the County and State aforesaid held at Concord in said County The Third Tuesday of April A 1832.
I Moses Eastman Clerk of said Court do hereby certify, that it appears, to the satisfaction of the Court that the said Ben Thompson did serve in the Revolutionary War as stated in the preceding declaration against the common enemy for the term of one year, under one engagement on the Continental establishment.
I also certify that the foregoing oath and the schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the records of said Court; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount of in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid schedule is Forty Dollars and Sixty Three Cents.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court on this Seventeenth day of April A 1832.
Moses Eastman

Cong? V 20. 1833 12. Sep 3 1 Sep 33
Documents
relative to application of Benjamin Thompson to be allowed a pension on account of Revolutionary ser- vices. Col. Green W. rep.
1827, Feb. 7. Referred with motion of Hon. Mr. Bell to the Committee on Pensions.
1828, February 18. referred with motion of the Honorable Mr. Bell, to Committee on Pensions.
May 23 discharged
20435-1818 6 43,996 2813 - 1832 f 19 123 (Batter) 37016 20/5
— Hon: Mr. Bell —

Dept. of War
Jan'y 28 th 1829
This case, having been once, de- -cided, on an appeal from the Pension Office to the Secretary of War, does not present those strong features in its favor, which alone could justify me in disturbing such a decision.
The applicants only hope of relief, therefore, appears to lie in an application to Congress. P.B.P.

Ben a Thompson Statement for a pension
— Hon: W m Bell —

Benjamin Thompson & 3 brothers all the males of the family himself excepted perished in the service of their country during the revolutionary war
Entered the Army in 1775 before I was in Bunker hill battle (was born March 1750) -
was sick & went home on furlough & continued sick at the end of 9 or 10 months Genl Nixon gave him a discharge, inasmuch as it was not likely to be given this discharge purports to be a true copy of Genl Nixon's order signed by his clerk Henry The affidavit of Ebenezer Dods shows that he went to Genl Nixon & got this discharge for for Thompson. Genl Nixon - (first objection only a copy after Dods' affidavit taken objection (army return deserted) - (because did not appear Dods' character sufficiently good) - a 2 d affidavit of Dods accompanied by a certificate that Dods was a man of good character after sent - Genl Nixon Genl Nixon's life guard & could not remember Capt's name Secretary objected that it appeared that the money was due to him never called for this proved deserted - no. accrued due after he had furlough before this return deserted made - knew nothing about it The affidavit of Eastman proves that he saw this discharge in Nixon's original records

Prof a Thompson Declaration of Schidute G o . 11 th Feb y 1829

State of New Hampshire
Hillsborough ss.
At a court of Sessions held at Anhurst, in said County of Hillsborough, on this eleventh day of February 1823, being a court of Records having power of Fine and imprisonment and unlimited jurisdiction in point of amount.
Present Joshua Duling } Chief Justice The Hon. } Jedidiah H. Smith Abiel Wilson Joseph Philbrick Jacob Tuttle } Justices
Personally appeared Benjamin Thompson before Joshua Duling Chief Justice, aged sixty eight years, resident in Andover in said County who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath declare, that he served in the Revolutionary War as follows, to wit, That he joined in the Army in the Revolutionary War at the Battle of Bunker Hill, and served through said campaign, the whole of the year 1776 or 1777, and through 1777 in the New Hampshire Line - but the first 8 months in the Mass Line - That in April 1778, he enlisted for three years, and served in Col. Grafton's Regiment in the Massachusetts Line - until about the first of June 1779, when by reason of sickness he went home, on a furlough, and remained sick and unable to do duty for more than 12 months, and that he afterwards received an honorable discharge, by order of General Nixon, which he has forwarded to the Department of War.
The date of my original declaration was on or about 17th day of September Anno Domini 1818.

I have now received a pension certificate. And I do solemnly swear, that I am a resident citizen of the United States, on the 18 th day of March 1818, and that I have not since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner, dis- -posed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby to diminish it, or to bring myself within the provisions of the Act of Congress, entitled "An Act, to provide for certain persons engaged in the Land or Naval Service of the United States in the Revolutionary War, passed on the 18 th day of March Anno Domini 1818;" and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts, due to me; nor have I any income, other than what is contained in the following Schedule, by me subscribed.
Benf a Thompson.
Schedule of the Property of the said Benjamin Thompson -
  He has no real estate -     One two year old Steer  $7.00    And articles of Household Furniture     valued at $25.00  25.00     $32,00  
My occupation is laborer, but am not able to labor at this time nor have I been, for three years past.
My Family residing with me, consists of my Wife, aged Sixty two years - past labor.
Benjamin Thompson

Sworn to and declared, on the 6 th day of February Anno Domini 1823, Before Joshua Darling Chief Justice, In the said, Benjamin, being aged Infirm and lame, from the kick of a horse, And unable to attend in open court personally And living more, than sixty miles from the Court.
I Enoch Darling, Clerk of the of the above named Court, do hereby certify, that the fore- going declaration and oath and the schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the Record of said Court; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the foregoing schedule is Thirty two Dollars
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court on this Fourteenth day February Anno Domini 1823
E. Darling } Clerk of the Court of Sessions for said County of Hillsborough.

August 6, 1932.
BA-J/ILL
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Benjamin Thompson S. 43996
Homer S. Bradley 16 Central Square Keene, New Hampshire.
Dear Sir:
You are furnished herewith the record of Benjamin Thompson, the Revolutionary War pensioner of Andover, New Hampshire, who died in 1837.
The data contained in this record are from the papers on file in pension claim, S. 43996, based upon the service of Benjamin Thompson in that war.
Benjamin Thompson was born in March 1750 (as he stated); his father and three brothers, whose names are not given, "all the males in the family" with the exception of said Benjamin, perished in the service of their country during the Revolutionary War.
not true He enlisted at the time of the battle of Bunker Hill, was in that battle and served eight months as private in the Massachusetts troops, and was in the year's service in 1776; he served the year 1777 in the New Hampshire troops; no officers names were stated during these periods of service. He enlisted in March or April, 1778, served as private in Captain Oliver's Company, Colonel Greaden's Massachusetts Regiment until about June, 1779, at least a year of this service as body guard to General Nixon; he was then furloughed on account of sickness which prevented him from returning to duty before the expiration of his furlough, and was discharged July 14, 1780 by order of General Nixon. During the time he was furloughed, he was in New Hampshire, a part of the time in Keene. his return to duty
He was allowed pension on his application executed September 18, 1818, at which time he resided in Andover, New Hampshire; he gave his age then as sixty-three years. In 1823, he referred to his wife as sixty-two years of age, but he did not give her name.

The soldier died December 9, 1837, survived by children whose names are not given designated.
In 1831, Hered Thompson was a resident of Andover, New Hampshire, and one Miriam Thompson appears in that county in behalf of the soldier; no relationship of either of these persons to the soldier was stated.
Very truly yours,
A. D. HILLER, Assistant to Administrator.
Soldier's name is written Thomson on discharge His name in Mass. book, in Col. Grooton's Mass. Regt., is marked deserted.

1932 - Aug. 6 - sent to Homer S. Bradley - see letter R.H. Bradley Thompson - 1918 - 26518 - 222.
43996
Rev INVALID.
File No. 43,996
Benjamin Thompson Rev Rev Rev
Act: 18 th March 18 th
Index: — Vol. 8 , Page 589
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Sketch of testimony in Bryant v. Thompson Cause

Benj n Thomson's declaration date Sep 18 th 1818.
Enlisted March 1778 in Col. Grafton's Regt Capt. Oliver's Company, Massachusetts. Served the U. States till 10 th July 1780, when at Framingham in Mass ts he was disch d . Was in battle of Bunkerhill
Feb y 11 th 1823, Thomson, Sworn, and stated. He joined Army at Bunkerhill & served thro' that campaign - the whole of 1776 in years service - and thro' 1777, in the N. Hamp n Line : but the first 8 Mo s in Mass ts Line.
In Ap l 1778, enlisted for 3 years - served in Col Grafton's Regt till about 1 st June 1779, was sick, went home on furlough - remained at home sick about 12 mo s . - That afterw d . he rec d an hon ble discharge by order of Gen l Dixon, which was forwarded to Dep t of War. whole am t of property in Sched le $32.00
The last statement above mentioned was certified by the Clerk of the Court of Sessions of Wiltshire 6 th Dec r 1818, Jackson Darling, B ar & J

Judge before whom the declaration was taken on 6 th Feb y , Thompson being lame & unable to attend Court, in which Thomp- -son deposed that he served about 11 yrs., as near as he could recollect, and nearly all the time in Genl. H s Life Guard, which was the reason had forgotten his last name when he made 1 st declaration - left Army on furlough, not without liberty . Did not reach home till furlough was nearly or quite out, was sick long time, grew weary, sent a Man to Genl. H s Regt., who returned word "that if he would get his own certificate by two Phys ns - he would send him a discharge" that he got the certificate, sent it to the Genl by Brewer Dodge, who sent back a discharge which was sent to War Dep t by Col. Evans.
Brewer Dodge on 16 th June 1820. testified had been acquainted with Thompson more than 40 years. I was a Subser in Col. Graham Regt. Col. O'Brien's 6 th . was sick and a furlough don't remember how long, unable to return to duty, in July 1740, Witness went to Genl. H s at Finsbury with certificates of Dist. Franks of Kurn & Dist. Miller of Westmoreland, to prove

Thomson discharge, and did get one dated July 14 th 1840, which was annexed to his discharges.
Nov 27. 1822, Brewster Dodge gave another discharge to same person in to the getting of discharge.
Genl Cushman, Ad. Chamberlain & Samuel Porter support the character of Brewster Esq. Jo. Loomis testify to credibility of Ad. Chamberlain & Porter
Robert Babcock William Brewster Esq. & George Darling testify to the good character of Thomson, during an acquaintance of 20 or 30 years.

Senate Report granted

In the case of Benj m Thomsen
It is in proof that his service was more than 9 months - left the Army on Furlough sick, & did not return at the expiration - but on sending certificates of continued sickness rec d an honorable discharge - noted on Roll deserted - War Dept. will not receive evidence to contradict Roll ought to be restored.

I Benjamin Thomson of lawful age testify that I served as a soldier in the Revolutionary war a number of years and at the expiration of my service I received an honorable discharge from General Nixen by the hand of Brown Dodge late of Colebrook, New Hampshire now deceased. I kept that discharge until I came to Colebrook & handed it to said Dodge said Dodge knew it as soon as he saw it and understood the circumstances connected with it The said Brown Dodge then made oath before Joseph Loomis Esquire that that discharge was the identical discharge which he received of General Nixen for me Colebrook October 22 1831 BEN: THOMPSON
Coos p Oct 22 1831 Sworn to before me Frederick G. Merrill Esquire

Edmond Chamberlain Affidavit sustains the credibility of Brewster Dodge
13. Thompson March 1 Jan '19

I Edmund Chamberlain of Colebrook of Law ful age testify and say that. I have been acquainted with Mr Brewer Dodge — that I consider him to be a Man of truth and veracity my acquaintance with him has been for three or four years last past
— Edmund Chamberlain
State of New Hampshire } October 19 th 1820
Coos County ss ————— Then Edmund Chamberlain made oath to the foregoing Affidavit by him signed Before me Joseph Loomis Justice of the Peace

I Miriam Thompson of lawfull age testify and say that I saw in Betsy Thompson papers a discharge from the army of the revolution more than forty years ago and read the same at that time I further state that I assisted him in looking it in 1812 amongst his old papers and found the same discharge and read it and heard it read I was the same which Mr Brewer Dodge told me he received of Genl- Hickson and delivered to Betsy Thompson I further testify that the said Thompson made application for a pension in the fall of 1812 and forwarded the same to the war Department by the Hon. Mr Evans Judge of Probate for the County of Grafton Miriam Thompson Concord, Nov. 3. 1831
Miriam Thompson ss.
Nov. 3. 1831
State of New Hampshire
Saw me and subscribed this third day of November. 1831 before me
Daniel Woodbury, Justice of the Peace
I further certify that the said Miriam Thompson - on is a good and creditable witness
Daniel Woodbury Justice. Peace

State of New Hampshire Secretary's Office Nov. 10. 1831
The within named Daniel Woodbury is a Justice of the Peace for the County of Merrimack in this State. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the State. Ralph Nute, Secretary.
Minion Thompson Disposition

Concord Nov. 11 th 1831
Hon. Isaac Hill; Sir I have committed to the care of the Hon. D. M. Harper a number of papers containing depositions of a number of individuals which I have requested him to deliver to you and I wish you to examine the same and hand them over to the Hon. Levi Woodbury with whom I wish you to consult upon the subject of them. You being personally acquainted with me I beg the favour of you to recommend me to him as far as you can consistently. And upon examining and comparing my declaration with the records of the War Department there should be any disagreement I can only state to you that said declaration was made from the best of my recollection at the time. If when consulting with Mr. Woodbury I wish him to see if there is a record of my application for a pension and if there appears not to be any I wish him to consult or enquire of Mr. Edmonds about it for he would certainly know that there was an application made - and if you think proper to question Mr. Bell upon the subject he can state that application was made and when.
Respectfully your Obed. Servt
Benjamin Thompson

Sir,
Washington Dec r 28 th 1831
To your enquiry whether I remember to have seen among the papers accompanying the petition of Benjamin Thompson for a pension for revolutionary services a discharge from the service signed by Genl Nixon, I have to reply, that I distinctly remember that there was among said papers a discharge from the service to said Thompson signed either by Genl Nixon himself or by his Aid de Camp and purporting to be by order of Genl Nixon. I then had, and now have no doubt of the genuineness of said discharge. I take leave to add, that I carefully examined said original papers, and that in my opinion they afforded ample proof that said Thompson was entitled to a pension under the laws of Congress
Very respectfully Your Obed Servt
John L Edwards Esquire Samuel Bell

War Department Pension Office, April 21. 1828
Sir,
In reply to your letter respecting the case of Benjamin Thompson, I have to inform you that I referred the claim to the Secretary of War, who has directed me to say that a pension cannot be allowed, as he deems it proper to adhere invariably to the rule that the credit of a record is greater than the testimony of witnesses. The papers are herewith returned, as perhaps you may wish to lay them before the Committee on Pensions.
I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully, Your Ob't. Serv't.
J. L. Edwards
Hon. S. Bell, Senate, U. S.

Washington Benjamin Thompson Esq Feb 8. 1828
Sir,
In the course of the present session, and as early as I can obtain a decision from the Committee on pensions, I will bring the subject of your application before Congress, and make a last effort to have justice done you
I am respectfully your obed servt Samuel Bell

Washington Jan 23 rd 1876
Dear Sir,
Your letters of Dec r & Jan y have been duly received. I have once called at the pension office since my arrival, and conversed with the head of the Department on the subject of your application for a pension. He promised me that he would again review the evidence, and consider the subject as early as should be in his power. I will after a few days call upon him and present more fully my own views of the evidence and merits of the case, and am not without hope of your final success.
I am respectfully yours & Samuel Bell

Dear Sir,
Chester March 21. 1825
I was unable to induce the Secretary at War to change the opinion he had formed in respect to your application for a pension. A change has now taken place in that department, and I hope I shall be able at the next session to obtain for you from your country that justice to which I believe you have a fair and honest claim. You may rely upon every exertion in my power to obtain a successful result to your application.
I am respectfully your Obedient Servt Samuel Bell

Saint Porter's affidavit sustains authority of the
Dodge I have been thinking of you and your kindly words and how much I should like to see you again
Yours sincerely J. P. Morgan Oct 10
General Foster Washington

Calcutta Oct 10
Edward Lewis Hughes Minturn

Colebrook October 10 th 1820
Edward Evans Esq.
Sir — Enclosed is the Affidavits of Mrs. Edmund Charonherbain and Samuel Porter — both of whom are as well acquainted with Mr. Brewer Dodge as any in this Country and are Men of respectability Yours with esteem Joseph Loomis
MS I have delayed answering you on account of the absence of those men —————

I Samuel Porter of Colebrook of Lawful age, testimony and say that I have been acquainted with Mr Green Dyer - about three or four years - that I consider him to be a Man of truth and veracity
Samuel Porter
State of New Hampshire Coos County ss - October 10 th 1820 then Samuel Porter made Oath to the the foregoing Affidavit by him signed Before me Joseph Leconis Justice of the Peace

Rev Joseph Loomis Affidavit

State of New Hampshire Secretary's Office. Nov. 11 1831.
The within named Frederick G. Meyer is a Justice of the Peace for the County of Coos. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the State.
Ralph Metcalf Secretary.

I Joseph Loomis of Colebrook New Hampshire of Lawful age Testify and Say —
That — about the years of 1820 or 1821
Bruer Dodge then of said Colebrook now Deceased — came before me and made Oath to a Deposition to this purport — that Benjamin Thompson of Andover in said State of New Hampshire was a soldier in the Revolution — that he was sick and that he the D r Dodge went to his commanding Officer and obtained his the said Thompsons discharge for manner of Bodily Infirmary — I think from General Vixon — Said Dodge stated that the discharge then present was the one that he obtained for said Thompson — the said Bruer Dodge made oath to the foregoing in substance — before me as justice of the peace —
I further State that the said Dodge was considered as a man of Credit in witness
hereby — State of New Hampshire Coop — Octob r 22 1830
Joseph Loomis
Sworn to before me Frederick G. Gilpen Justice. Peace

I Hered Thompson of the town of New Hampshire testify that I saw in 1818 a discharge of Benjamin Thompson a soldier in Col Grahams regt. Expt. alines company from any further service in the aforesaid regt. by reason of his infirmity by order of Benjamin Govt.
Wien Sine Henry Savage Stiddcamp
I further testify that some time in the years 1822 or 23 Mr. Brewer Dodge was at my house and in conversation he told me that by the request of the said Thompson he went to Genl. Wien with said Thompsons father for the purpose of getting his discharge that he in formed the Genl. of Thompsons inability to return to the army that the Genl. told him he must bring certificates from two Doctors to that effect, and he said he got the certificates which were demanded went a second time to the Genl. presented said certificates that Genl. Wien then gave him a discharge which he delivered to the said Benjamin Thompson that it was the same that he had testified to before

Joseph Dorr Esq of the County of Essex and State of New Hampshire I further testify that some time in 1818 or 1819 application was made by the said Thompson to obtain a pension and forwarded to the war department by the Hon. Wm Evans Judge of Probate for the County of Grafton Herbert Thompson. Stroudwater Nov. 3. 1831
State of New Hampshire Merrimack ss. November 3 rd 1831 Personally appeared the above named Herbert Thompson and made solemn oath that the above deposition that the above deposition by him subscribed is just and true before me. Daniel Woodbury Justice of the Peace I further certify that the said Herbert Thompson is a good creditable witness Daniel Woodbury Justice of the Peace

State of New Hampshire Secretary's Office Nov. 11. 1831.
The within named Daniel Woodbury is a Justice of the Peace for the County of Merrimack in said State. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the State.
Ralph Metcalf Secretary.

Jonathan Eastman Esq. Dep r in Benjamin Thompson's case.

I Jonathan Eastman testify and say that I was personally acquainted with Brigadier Genl. Sizer in the days of the Revolution that I did see in his original records of that war, a discharge of Benjamin Thompson a soldier in Coll. Grafton's Key Stone Batt. from any further service in the aforesaid Batt. by reason of his infirmity by order of Brigadier Genl. Sizer
Jonathan Eastman
State of New Hampshire Rockingham ss. Concord February 8, 1823
Be it known that on this eighth day of February A.D. 1823, before me Joseph Low, Notary Public within & for said jurisdictionally appointed State, Jonathan Eastman and made solemn oath that the above certificate by him subscribed is just & true.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my name and affixed my Notarial Seal at Concord in the County & State aforesaid on the day aforesaid.
Joseph Low, Notary Public
I certify that the above deponent is an credible witness. Joseph Low, Notary Public

No 20 Benjamin Thomson had granted him a loan of 1000 pounds Sterling
Secret
Applicant must produce the original discharge -
Benjamin Thomson Dec 19th 1799
Copy - Thomas Debut made 10th Sept 1818 before a Hon. Judge Schult
Benj

STATE OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE.
Grafton ss.)
ON this 19th day of Sept 1819, before me the subscriber, one of the Judges of the Court for the probate of wills &c for said County
personally appears Benjamin Thompson aged sixty three years, resident in the County of Hillsborough in said State
in the said State, who being by me first duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the late act of Congress, entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war:" That he the said Benjamin Thompson enlisted in Col. Green's Virgin
ent in the State of Massachusetts in the company commanded by Captain Benjamin Olin of the said Regiment (to the list of first Regulars) for the term of three years in March 1778
; that he continued to serve in the said corps, or in the service of the United States, until the 14th of July AD 1780
, when he was discharged from service in said State  in said State  here  in Framingham that he was in the battles of Bunker Hill and
that he is in reduced circumstances, and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support; and that he has no other evidence now in his power of his said services except what is in such evidence
Sworn to and declared before me, the day and year aforesaid.
Deane Judge of probate
I, Edward Deane Judge of the Court for the probate of wills &c for said County
as aforesaid, do certify, that it appears to my satisfaction, that the said Benjamin Thompson was in reduced circumstances & stands in need of assistance from his country for his support & that he did
did serve in the revolutionary war, as stated in the preceding declaration, against the common enemy; and I now transmit the proceedings and testimony taken and had before me, to the Secretary for the Department of War, pursuant to the directions of the aforementioned act of Congress.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand  seal & have affixed the seal of said Court the day & year above written
Deane Judge of probate

I Benjamin Thompson of Lawfull age Depose & Say upon my Sacerd honour & in Presense of almighty God that I was a the Solder in the begining of the revolutionary war and joined the army at the battle of Bunker's Hill & continued in the service of the United States the whole of the time untill April Seventeen hundred & Seventy eight according to the best of my recollections at which time I enlisted into Col n Grateson's regiment for the term of three Years, and served about eleven months of sd time as near as I can recollect and nearly the hole of sd time I was one of Gen l Nickson's life Guard and I assign this as an reason why I had forgotten the Capt n name at the time I made application for a pension I further testify & say that I never did leave the army at any time with out full liberty and when I left the army I came away on furlough but being in such a reduced state of health that I did not reach my friend in the State of New Hampshire untill my furlough was nearly or quite out I remained in a low state of health & under the Doct s care for along time and continued in such a low state of health that it was imposable for me to return to the army under these circumstances I grew uneasy sent an man with a statement of my condition to Gen l Nickson. Gen l Nickson sent me word that if my case was such as I had represented to him and would have it certified by two Phisians one of which he named he would send me the discharge. I complied with his request got the certificates and sent to Gen l Nickson by one Brewer Dudge & also my furlough when sd Dudge returned he brought me the Discharge which I sent on by the Hon ble Edward Evans to the War department. and I further testify that I served in the Revolutionary War from the Battle of Bunker's Hill in 1775 until about the last of May 1778 when I left the Service and afterwards received an honorable Discharge from the Service as aforesaid signed by General Nixon and for a silly reason of drinking and being unable to do

1 military duty which discharge will be found on file with my original Discharge in the Department of War
Febry. 6. 1823.
Benj. Thompson
State of New Hampshire
Hillsborough ss.
Feb. 6. 1823
Then personally appeared Benjamin Thompson Esquire, (whom I have known more than thirty years and whom I have always considered a man of truth & veracity) and made solemn oath that the within declaration by him at any time subscribed, was just & true.
Before me Joshua Darling Justice of the Peace Chief Justice of the Court of Sessions
Febry. 6. 1823
Benj. Thompson

I Adino N. Brackett of Lane as to the the State of New Hampshire, testify, that some nine or ten years ago, Benjamin Thompson of Andover in the same State, called on me as clerk of the Superior Court of Judicature, to certify that Joseph Loomis, before whom the deposition of Brewer Dodge was taken, was an acting magistrate at that time. I recollect reading the deposition then, & that it was in substance, that the said Dodge during the war of the re- bellion, procured from Gen. Nelson a discharge from the service of the U. States, of the said Thompson, he being sick & unable to do mili- tary duty at the time. I did then certify that said Loomis was an acting magistrate, & put my name & seal of the court to the same.
Adino N. Brackett
State of New Hampshire Coos Co.
Oct. 24. 1881-
Personally was before me A. N. Brackett signer of the above affidavit & made solemn oath that the same is true.
J. W. Weeks Pres. Prob.

State of New Hampshire Secretary's Office Nov. 10. 1831
The within named John W. Weeks is a Justice of the Peace for the County of Coos. In testimony, whereof I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the State. Ralph Metcalf Secretary.
Adams N Brackebury Officer

Paid 10
Parker Esqr
Manchester
W.H.

Schedule of the whole estate (necessary clothing and bedding excepted) of Benjamin Thompson of Andover in the County of Merrimack and State of New Hampshire Esquire, applicant for a pension under the act of Congress of March 10, 1818 and May 1, 1820.
   $ cents     One Cow 18. 66   1 Looking Glass 1.00   one 3 1/2 feet Table 1.25   one Tea Table 1.25   Two Lute Stands 1.00   One Tin Pail .33   One Do. Coffee-pot 1/6 .25   Two Old tin Trays .25   One pair Brass candlesticks .75   1/2 Doz. Plates .73   One Platter .25   One Set Tea Cups & Saucers .33   One Tea Set and Creamer .35   9 knives and 4 forks .75   Two silver table Spoons 4. 00   Shovel and Tongs .03   one Warming-Pan 1.75   Eight Chairs 3.00   One Chest of Drawers 2.50   One Large Bible 1.75   One Testament .25   One Looking Glass .40   One Iron Pot 1.00   One Small Brass Kettle .50   One Dast Iron .50   $ 40.63  
Ben. Thompson
We the subscribers testify and say that we have viewed the property contained in the schedule above shown to us by Benjamin Thompson

above named as his property, and are of opinion that the sums set against the respective items are their true value, and further that said property is all the property owned by said Thompson excepting as above excepted.
Isaac Green } Selectmen Thomas Clark Nathan Wren } Chosen
Personally appeared Isaac Green, Thomas Clark and Nathan Wren above named, and made oath to the truth of the above statement by them subscribed, and I certify that they are disinterested and credible witnesses and are intitled to entire confidence.
Wm Proctor Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that Wm Proctor is a Justice of the Peace and of the Inferior, acting under the authority of New Hampshire.
Sept 23 d 1832.
Joseph M. Hovey N.B.

like a change for this is a testimony is the greatest change that has taken place in my property since the 18 March 1818
Dear Sir I wish you would have the goodness to complete the meeting as soon as possible and send it directly to me for I want to inform my Friends at Washington who are trying to assist some of them have got along Respectfully Yours Benj Thompson

Gen. Bushman's Affidavit

I the undersigned of Guilford in the county of Essex & State of Vermont do hereby certify that I knew well acquainted with Benjamin Dade late of Guilford in the county of Essex & State of Vermont who deceased for several years before his death & no man sustained a fairer character for truth & integrity. Some time in the year 1821 Mrs. Benjamin Dade of Concord in the county of Franklin & State of Vt. H. called on me with the affidavit of said Dade taken for the purpose of establishing said Dade's claim to a pension under the Act of 1818 as a Revolutionary soldier I wished me to give my affidavit that Dade was a man who sustained a fair character for truth and integrity I did.
I then read the affidavit of said Judge & do hereby recite that it stated very fully & distinctly that no judge received from Genl. Slayen or from said Mowens discharge from the service of the United States & that the Judge delivered said discharge to said Mowens when same was that time delivering under his duly competency & I think that new the cause of his discharge -
Dr. H. C. Anderson
State of Vermont & Litchfield October 24 th 1881 Ebenezer Hunt of Brattleboro, Vermont do hereby certify that the foregoing affidavit is true to the best of my knowledge, information and belief. Ebenezer Hunt

State of Vermont Essex County ss
William Gates Clerk of the County Court within and for the County of Essex aforesaid do hereby certify that John Darrow Esq. before whom the within affidavit was taken and sworn to was at the day of the date of his certificate a justice of the Peace within and for said County of Essex and that his name subscribed is in his signature
In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of said Court and subscribed my name at Lunenburg this 24th day of October A.D. 1831
William Gates Clerk

Thomas Whipple's Deposition.

I Thomas Whipple of the Town of Wentworth and County of Grafton and State of New Hampshire of lawfull age do hereby certify that during my term of service as a Member of the United States Congress and I think in the winter of 1826-27 I had the care of papers from Benjamin Thompson Esq of Anacostia in the County of Alexandria in said State by which he was asking and seeking to obtain a pension from the Government of the United States as a Revolutionary Soldier and that I presented said Papers in the Office of J. L. Edwards Clerk in the Department of War and that I considered the papers as fully substantiating said Thompson's claim to a pension and as removing all the objections which had prior to that time been made to said claim.
Octob 19 th 1830
Thomas Whipple
Subscribed and sworn to before me
John T. Sanborn J. P.
State of New Hampshire Secretary's Office Nov. 10 1831
The above named John T. Sanborn is a Justice of the Peace for the County of Grafton. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of the State.
Ralph Metcalf Secretary.

Join a Earlman Bg. Affidavit

Jonathan Eastman of Concord New Hampshire do testify and say, that I was acquainted with Brigadier General Nixon in days of the revolution, and that I did see on his records of that War, a discharge of Benjamin Thompson, a private Soldier in Colonel Grayson's Regiment, from any further service in the aforesaid Regiment, by reason of his infirmity, by order of the said Brigadier General Nixon. Henry Savage Middle clerk. Jonathan Eastman Concord September 20 th 1831
State of New Hampshire } Merrimack p. }
September 20 th 1831
Personally appearing the above named Jonathan Eastman and made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition by him subscribed —
Before me Jonathan Eastman for justice of the Peace
State of New Hampshire } Secretary's Office Nov. 11. 1831 }
The above named Jonathan Eastman Esq. is a Justice of the Peace for the County of Merrimack. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the seal of the State.
Ralph Mearns Secretary,

Dear Sir
Washington Jan 18. 1831
In reply to your letter of the 8 th instant I have to inform you that in the session of 1828, 1829 your petition was by the Senate referred to the Committee of pensions to whom your papers were of course delivered. The Committee did not make a report. It was their duty to have returned the petition and papers to the Secretary of the Senate to be placed on file. I supposed that they had done so, and brought up the subject again before the Senate at the last session. Upon calling upon the Secretary for the papers he informed me that he had examined the files but could not find them. I then called upon Genl Noble who had been the Chairman of the

of the commission and enquired respecting the papers. He stated that he had no distinct recollection but presumed that the papers had been returned to the Secretary - Without the papers nothing could be done
Since the receipt of your letter I have again enquired in the Secretary's office and of Genl Noble but have obtained no further information respecting them.
Respectfully &c Samuel Bell

19.545v Dear Benj. Thompson Hillsborough 6 th March.
Edw d Evans Asst. Haverhill, Mass.
Recd. Nov. 1890.

E. Owens' letter to John C. Calhoun Sec. War covering evidence to sustain the credibility of Brewer Dodge
to of War
Pension office

Wentworth, Oct 24 th 1820
Dear Sir
Enclosed are the papers in support of the claim of Benjamin Thompson for a pension under the act of March 18 th 1818, which claim was suspended in August last in order to ascertain the reputation of Resolved Dodge for truth & veracity
It is now supported by the affidavits of respectable men who are personally acquainted with him as you will see by Mr Loome's communication to me
He is a Justice of the Peace & of the Inferior for the County of Coos
Your election shall in favour of the claim provided Dodge's reputation was supported
I am ever yours &c &c
Stearns
Hon J. C. Calhoun

Robert Barbour & W. H. Norton Esquire Affidavits.

This may certify that I have been well acquainted with Benjamin Thompson of Andover County of Hillsborough & State of New Hampshire for more than twenty years and I consider him a man of truth & veracity & I should consider his testimony as good as any mans Robt Barber Justice of the Peace Andover Jan 31 st 1823
This may certify that I have been personally acquainted with Benja a Thompson Esq r of Andover County of Hillsboro & State of New Hampshire for more than thirty years & I ever have & do now consider him a man of truth & veracity and should depend as much on his testimony as on any others mans W m Proctor Justice Peace
I hereby certify, that Robert Barber Esq r and W m Proctor Esquires, are both my respectable Magistrates, in actual commission of the Peace as Justices in Andover in the County of Hillsborough and residing in the same Town where the said Benja a Thompson lives Joshua Darling Justice of the Peace Feb. 6. 1823

Benjamin Thompson's claim.
Deserted 1 June '79
N. Hampshire
Heads Mason Dug Being a Thompson

Ben Thompson's Discharge and Bruner Dodge's Affidavit.

This may Certify that Mr Benjamin Thomson a Soldier in Col. Grealow's Regiment Massachusetts Bay Forces is Discharged from any further Service in the aforesaid Regiment upon account of his infirmity.
Ingrinhampton } By Order of General Nixon July 21 st 1780 } Sign Henry Savage D r Comp True Copy from the Original att d J. S. Morse
Assent is True.

I further state that I have this day seen the copy of his Discharge which I received from the General in the possession of the said Thompson. meaning the same which I received for him as his Discharge which is hereunto annexed — Colebrook June 16 th 1820
Brewer Dodge
State of New Hampshire Coos ss — June 16 th 1820
Personally appeared Brewer Dodge and made oath that the within and foregoing Affidavit is true
Before me Joseph Loomis Justice of the Peace
I certify that Mr Brewer Dodge is considered as a Man of Credibility Jos Loomis Justice Peace
State of New Hampshire I hereby certify that Coos ss June 20 th 1820 Joseph Loomis is now a Justice of the Peace in & for the County of Coos, & legally qualified to administer oaths, & that the above is his signature.
Adrian N. Brackett, Clerk of the Superior Court of Justice for said County.

I Brewer Dodge of Colebrook in the County of Coos and State of New Hampshire - before and say that I have been personally acquainted with Benjamin Thompson of Andover in the County Hillsbury in said State for the term of more than forty years last past - that said Thompson was a soldier in Col Grattan's Regiment in the Revolutionary war in the Company commanded by Capt Oliver that said Thompson was out of health and received a furlow on that account - the length of time I do not recollect - that such was the state of his health that he was unable to return to the army - that he received certificates of Doctor Frinck of Heers in the State of his inability to return to the army and perform Military Duty - that in the Month of July 1780 he the said Thompson remaining out of health employed me to go to Framingham in Massachusetts to General Nixon for the purpose of procuring his Discharge from the army which I did and carried said Thompson furlow and certificate from Dr Frinck of Heers and Miller of Newton- -onland - General Nixon after examining the papers which I presented ordered his aid Henry Savage to make out said Thompson's Discharge which he did and I brought the same to said Thompson bearing Date July 14 th 1780

I further State that I have this day seen the copy of his Discharge which I received from the General in the possession of the said Thompson. meaning the same which I received for him as his Discharge which is herewith annexed —
Colebrook June 16 th 1820
Brewer Dodge
State of New Hampshire
Coos ss — June 16 th 1820
Personally appeared Brewer Dodge and made oath that the within and foregoing Affidavit is true
Before me Joseph Loomis Justice of the Peace
I certify that Mr Brewer Dodge is considered as a Man of Credibility Jos Loomis Justice Peace
State of New Hampshire ss I hereby certify that Coos ss June 20 th 1820 Joseph Loomis is now a Justice of the Peace in & for the County of Coos, & legally qualified to administer oaths, & that the above is his signature.
Adrian N. Brackett, Clerk of the Superior Court of Justice for said County.

Genl. Cushman's Affidavit

Genl. S. H. Cushman's
Affidavit
Sustains the credibil- ity of Bunker Dodge
5 Bunker Dodge of Southland County of San Jo State of

I the undersigned of lawful age do hereby say that I have been well acquainted for a number of years with Bremer Dodge of Colbrook in the County of Essex & State of Massachusetts. That he sustains a fair character for truth and integrity and in the opinion of this Deponent is a man of unimpeachable integrity and well deserves the reputation which he has - This deponent would place as full confidence in the truth of his said Dodge's testimony as in that of any other man.
The undersigned
State of Vermont Guilhall December 3 d 1822 Your humble servant personally appeared the undersigned sign of the foregoing affidavit and made solemn oath to the truth of the same.
Before me William Gates Justice of Peace State of Vermont Essex County to Guilhall Dec r 22 I hereby certify that William Gates sign of the above certificate is duly appointed & qualified a Justice of the Peace within & for the County of Essex Attest Simon Fairchild Clerk of Essex County Court

Brewer Dodge's Affidavit

I Brewer Dodge of Colebrook County of Coos & State of New Hampshire of Lawfull age do testify and say that I went to General Pison with two certificates from Surgeons of Benjamin Thompson (Disability) of performing Military Duty with a Furlow which he received of the General, that I requested a Discharge for said Thompson, upon that request the General Ordered a gentleman that was in the room to write a Discharge for said Thompson upon which the gentleman went out of the room, and returned with a Paper and gave it to General Pison and he gave it to me, which was the same Discharge I testified before Judge Dorr & further the Deponent saith not Colebrook 27 th November 1822 Sworn to before me Jared Cone Justice Brewer Dodge
This may certify that I have been acquainted with Brewer Dodge for a number of years and consider him to be a Man of truth and veracity
Jared Cone Justice Pison
State of New Hampshire Coos St. Decmber 30 1822.
I hereby certify that Jared Cone before whom the above affidavit was sworn to, is a justice of the Peace in & for the County of Coos, that he is now in commis- sion, & that he is therefore qualified to administer oaths by the laws of the State of New Hampshire, That the above is his proper signature. A. N. Brackett Clerk of Superior Court of Judicature