Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 10,355, for Benjamin Swetland, Massachusetts

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass
Sweetland, Benjamin or Sweetland,
R 10,355
Rosanna
CONTENTS

Date of death not on QB
1,442
New York Pensions
Benj a Sweetland
Life Major - (mus ts ) Massachusetts line - 1777 - 3 years In the army of the United States during the Revolutionary War
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 8 Dollars per month to commence on the 9 of April 1818
Certificate of Pension issued the 30 of Jan y 1818 and sent to Morris Miller Esq. Utica Oneida Co New York
Arrears to 4th of Sept r 1818 - Semi-ann. acct ending
4 mos 20/30.
$38.93
{ Revolutionary claim, } { Act 18th March, 1818 }
Greaton
✓ Town unknown Oneida Co

State of New-York, ONEIDA COUNTY, ss.
I MORRIS S. MILLER , First Judge of the county of Oneida, do certify, that it appears to my satisfaction that the within named Benjamin Sutherland did serve in the Revolutionary War, against the common enemy, on the Continental Establishment, for the term of nine months or longer, as stated in the declaration hereto annexed. And I now transmit the proceedings and testimony taken and had before me, to the Secretary of the Department of War, pursuant to the directions of the Act of 18th March, 1818. Dated this 14. — day of May . 1818.
M. S. Miller First Judge of Oneida.
STATE OF NEW-YORK, CLERK'S OFFICE OF ONEIDA COUNTY.
I do certify that the above signature, and the signatures to the certificates, of the affidavits hereto annexed are in the proper hand writing of Morris S. Miller , the First Judge of the county of Oneida. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of this Court. Dated the 15 th — of May 1818.
Francis P. Woodgood

State of New York } Oneida County } ss.
Benjamin Southland being duly sworn saith that he is a resident of the County of Oneida and State of New York - that he is Sixty two - years old and upwards - that by reason of his reduced circumstances in life he is in need of assistance from his country for support - that he never had any pension allowed him by the laws of the United States that he served as a soldier in the war of the Revolution on the continental establishment three years and upwards - he enlisted in 1777. in Bolton Company Grafton Regt. Massachusetts line and served in the same about two years - when he was transferred to Sumner Company of same Regt. and served therein about one year : in 1779 he was appointed Fifth Major as appears by the Warrant hereto annexed - which warrant signed by J. Grafton is genuine and was originally granted to this deponent. He was honorably discharged in 1780. Discharge is lost.
Sworn 9 Apr. 1818
Benjamin Southland
Before me...
H. J. Merrill
First Judge of Oneida.

State of New York
Madison County } ss.
On this Nineteenth day of June 1846 personally appeared in open court before the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Madison and State of New York aforesaid, being a Court of record, Rosanna Osborn, a resident of the town of Sangerfield County of Oneida and State of New York aged sixty one years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order that the children of Rosanna Swetland deceased may obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7, 1838 entitled "An act granting half-pay and pensions to certain widows;" that she the said Rosanna Osborn is one of the children of Rosanna Swetland aforesaid, deceased; that she the said Rosanna Swetland deceased, was the widow of Benjamin Swetland, who was as she, this declarant, believes a pensioner of the United States at the time of his death and who did service in the revolutionary war, but of what rank and whether he served in the army or militia, and what service he performed, she is unable to state. She further declares that her mother the said Rosanna Swetland was married to the said Benjamin Swetland on the 6 th day of June 1782 and that the husband of the said Rosanna Swetland, the aforesaid Benjamin Swetland died on the 29 th day of September 1820; that her mother the said Rosanna Swetland was not married to him the said Benjamin Swetland prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seventeen hundred and ninety four, viz: at the time above stated. She further declares that her mother died on the 26 th day of June 1838.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written before me
J. S. Wintley
Clerk of Madison County
(over)
} Rosanna Osborn

State of New York Madison County } ss.
J. Faddock T. Bentley
Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas holden at Morrisville in and for the said County of Madison, being a court of record, do hereby certify that the foregoing declaration was made by the said Rosanna Osborn in open court before the said Court of Common Pleas on the day and year as therein mentioned that is to say on the Nineteenth day of June 1846, which declaration is satisfactory evidence to the said Court of the facts therein contained
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office this 19 th day of June in the year of Our Lord 1846 at Morrisville aforesaid
J. F. Bentley Clerk Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of the said County of Madison

State of New York Madison County } ss.
I, Isador T. Bentley Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, being a Court of record, held at Morrisville in and for the County of Madison aforesaid, do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to the said Court that Rosanna Swetland was the widow of Benjamin Swetland, who at the time of his death resided in the town of Sangerfield, County of Oneida and State of New York; that she the said Rosanna Swetland was a resident of the town of Brookfield in the County of Madison in the State of New York, and died in the said town of Brookfield in the County of Madison in the State of New York in the year 1838 on the 26 th day of June; that she left the children and only the children whose names are as follows that is to say, Rosanna Osborn, Warren Swetland Jamin Swetland Cynthia Shattuck, Alva Swetland, Polly Eames Lyman Swetland Florilla Pierce Sevilla Jefferies and Marcia Smith; that the following named children only of the foregoing are now living, that is to say, Rosanna Osborn , Jamin Swetland  Cynthia Benton (whose name at the time of her said mother's death was Cynthia Shattuck) Alva Swetland , Polly Eames Florilla Pierce , Sevilla Jefferies and Marcia Smith ; and that the said Warren Swetland & Lyman Swetland who died since the decease of their said mother, left no children.
I.S.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Morrisville aforesaid this 19 th day of June in the Year of Our Lord 1846
J. T. Bentley Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of Madison County

" Marriages
 " One thousand seven hundred and eighty two  " June sixth married Benjamin Sweetland and  " Rosanna Handcock, both of Springfield" 
I Jonathan Clark of the Town of Somers in the County of Tolland and State of Connecticut. Clerk of the Congregational Church of the said Town of Somers, having the custody of the records thereof, hereby certify, that the above is a true copy of the records, with the exception of the date, which is expressed on the record, in fair legible figures, as follows: "1782. June 6" -
Jonathan Clark
Clerk of the Congregational Church, in Somers, in Tolland County, in the State of Connecticut -
I Jonathan Clark above named depose & say, that I hold the office of Clerk of the Congregational Church in the County, Town and State aforesaid, which said Church was, on the 6 th day of June 1782, under the Pastoral care of the Rev d Charles Backus, now deceased, - and said Church at the present time, is destitute of a settled Minister, that the Records of said Church are in my custody, and that the above extract, from the records of said Church, is a true extract from the same, with the exception above named, as certified by me, and that the said extract, on the records of said Church, is in the proper hand writing of the said Charles Backus.
Jonathan Clark
Sworn & subscribed before { Clerk of the Congregational Church in me, this 23 rd day of November } Somers, in the County of Tolland, in the State of Connecticut - 1839.
Walter O. Kibbe Justice of the Peace

State of New York Madison County
On the 16th day of May 1857 personally appeared before me Joseph Clark a Judge of Madison County Courts it being a Court of Second Instance hereinafter a resident of Brachfield County of Madison and State of New York aged seventy five 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 4th 1836 that she is seventy five years of age that she is the widow of Benjamin Sweetland late of Brachfield County of Oneida and State of New York who was a Revolutionary pensioner under the act of Congress of 1818 she further declares that she was married to said Benjamin Sweetland in May in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty in the town of Sumner State of Connecticut by Charles Backus a minister of the gospel that she was born in the town of Longmeadow in the State of Massachusetts adjoining the aforesaid town of Sumner and lived there until she was married that she went with her said husband and was married as aforesaid living against the will of her parents that she has no record of her marriage and firmly believes there is none and that Rachel Pleasance her sister is the only surviving witness to her marriage that her said husband the aforesaid Benjamin Sweetland died on the twenty ninth day of September eighteen hundred and nineteen and that she has remained a widow ever since that provided as well more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed that her husband was in the army after she was married to him but the pension caught by him she cannot tell where and when paid on the day of her marriage and your claim mentioned before me Joseph Clark Judge of Madison County Courts

State of New-York Madison County Clerk's Office } ss: I, Andrew S. Sloan, Clerk of the said County, do hereby Certify that Joseph Clark, before whom the two preceding Affidavits purport to have been sworn, was at the date of the same, a Judge of the County Courts in and for the said County, duly Commissioned and qualified. And that I am acquainted with his hand writing and verily believe his name sub- -scribed to the said Affidavits, to be his proper hand writing and signature. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said County this 18 th day of May 1837. AS Sloan Clk.
Vol. 172 Pomaria @ western New York
Fullerton State. 1 yr = 3 sem. $67.50 on approx 60 units — 30. — 9 sem. No. ————— $97.50

State of New York } Madison County }
Rachel Kibby of Oneida County of Madison and State of New York being duly sworn deposes and says that she is seventy eight years of age that she was married and lived in the town of Sumner State of Connecticut during the Revolution war and is sister to Rosanna Sweetland the before named deponent who was married to Benjamin Sweetland in the town of Sumner aforesaid in May seventeen hundred and eighty according to the best of her recollection about the middle of May that she was present and saw them married by Deacon Buckus a minister of the gospel the marriage being against the will of her parents but few were present and that she nearly believes she is the only survivor that said Benjamin Sweetland was in the army some time after the marriage that he died on the 29th day of September 1819 and that Rosanna Sweetland aforesaid has remained a widow ever since that period sworn and subscribed.
before me the 16th day of May Rev. J. Kibby
1897 Joseph Clarke Judge of Madison County Court.
I further certify that the above deponent is a good Christian for truth and veracity and morality.
Joseph Clarke Judge of Madison County Court
2172
Rosanna Sweetland
NY.
Oct 4 July 30
Respectfully, named after the service terminated and said before 7 July 1838

April 21, 1938
XXXXXXXXXXXX
RA-J/EEL
Benjamin Swetland-E.10355
Mr. A.Osborne Mayer Waterville New York
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of Benjamin Swetland, who served as fife major in Captain Job Sumner's Company, 3 rd Massachusetts Regiment, commanded by Colonel John Greaton.
The data which follow were obtained from the papers on file in Revolutionary War pension claim, R.10355, based upon the military service in that war of Benjamin Swetland.
The date and place of birth and names of the parents of Benjamin Swetland(the name appears, also, as Sweetland) are not shown.
Benjamin Swetland enlisted, place not shown, sometime in 1777, served in Captain Colton's Company, Colonel Greaton's Massachusetts Regiment; after serving two years, was transferred to Captain Sumner's Company, same regiment; August 24, 1779, was appointed fife major for Colonel J. Greaton's 3 rd Massachusetts Regiment; he was discharged in 1780. He later served under Colonel Samuel Canfield and was discharged November 10, 1781, discharge signed M. Jackson, Colonel and Samuel Canfield, Lieutenant Colonel.
He was allowed pension on his application executed April 9, 1818, at which time he was aged sixty-two years and resided in Oneida County, New York.
The soldier died at Sangerfield, Oneida County, New York, September 29, 1819, October 24, 1819 or in 1820, all these dates are given.
Benjamin Swetland married at Somers, Connecticut, Resanna Hancock. They were married the middle of Aug st May, 1780 or January

10, 1782, as stated by the widow and her sister, or June 6, 1782, as shown by the records of the Congregational Church of Somers, Connecticut. It was further shown on said records that Benjamin Swetland and Rosanna Hancock were both then of Springfield, state not given. Rosanna stated that she was born in Long Meadow, Massachusetts, and lived there until she was married. The marriage was performed by the Reverend Charles Backus, pastor of the Congregational Church of said Somers, Connecticut. The names of the parents of Rosanna and the date and place of her birth are not shown. In 1837, she gave her age as seventy-five years.
Rosanna Swetland died in Brookfield, Madison County, New York, June 7, 1837, as stated by her sister or June 24, 1838, as stated by her daughter, Rosanna Osborn.
The following names of children are shown:
  Louisa Swetland. . . . .     Rosanna Swetland . . . . .  married Amos Osborn, date not given; in 1846, aged 61 years and living in Sangerfield, New York.    Warren Swetland. . . . .     Jamin Swetland . . . . .  in 1851, son Jamin lived at Camillus, New York.    Cynthia Swetland . . . . .  married Ebenezer Shattuck, later----- Benton and in 1862, was living in Geneva, Kane County, Illinois.    Alva or Alvah Swetland . . . . .  in 1849, was living in Jordan, New York.    Polly Swetland. . . . .  married John Eames.    Lyman Swetland . . . . .     Florilla Swetland. . . . .  married Reuben Pierce and in 1859, was living in Lima, New York.    Sevilla Swetland. . . . .  married Thomas Jefferies, in 1851, lived at Port Byron, New York, and in 1859, at Lima, New York.    Marcia Swetland. . . . .  married James A. Smith.  
In 1846, Warren and Lyman Swetland, named above, had died, Lyman leaving no issue. The dates of birth of the above named children and the dates of the marriages of the daughters are not given.
In 1851, Thomas J. Jefferies lived in Cayuga County, New York; no relationship to Mrs. Sevilla Jefferies, daughter of the soldier,

was stated. In 1848, Amos O. Osborn lived in Waterville, New York, but it was not stated whether or not he was the husband of Rosanna Osborn, daughter of the soldier, Benjamin Swetland, and his wife Rosanna.
In 1837, Rachel Kibbe, a resident of Brookfield, New York, stated that she was aged seventy-eight years and was a sister to Rosanna Swetland, widow of the soldier, Benjamin Swetland. In 1851, one Rachel Baker, aged ninety-two years and a resident of Galen, Wayne County, New York, was said to be a sister of the widow, Rosanna Swetland. In 1839, Walter R. Kibbe was a Justice of the Peace for Tolland County, Connecticut; no relationship to Rachel Kibbe, sister of the widow, Rosanna Swetland, was stated.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

Jordan N.Y. Dec 10. 1819
Sir
Abel Sweetland a son of the late Benjamin Sweetland, who was a Pensioner of the United States, under the act of 1818, wishes to be informed when the said Benjamin Sweetland was discharged, as you have his discharge on file in your Office, as a part of the Evidence on which he was pensioned, will you have the goodness to inform him.
I am Sir Your
humble Servt Abel Sweetland
J. L. Edwards, Commr of Pensions

State of New York } }
County of Wayne } On this 17 th day of October in the Year 1857 personally came before me Hiram P. Jones, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, Rachel Baker a resident of the town of Galen in the said County, aged Ninety two Years, who being by me duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath, depose and say, that, she was well acquainted with Benjamin Shattland and Rosanna his wife and, that, Benjamin Shattland was married to Rosanna Hancock on the 10 th day of January in the Year Seventeen hundred and Eighty two, in the town of Somers, in the State of Connecticut by the Rev d Elder Baeus, and the said Benjamin Shattland died the twenty fourth day of October in the Year Eighteen hundred and Nineteen in the town of Sangerfield in the County of Onondaga in the State of New York, and that Rosanna his wife died on Seventh day of June in the Year Eighteen hundred and thirty seven in the town of Brockfield in the County of Madison and that she died the Widow of Benjamin Shattland; the names of the children were Louisa Rosanna, Warren, Lavin, Gathine, Alvah, Polly, Solomon, Elmer, Stella, and Maria - Sworn and subscribed to } her the day and year above } Rachel X Baker written before me } mark
Hiram P. Jones Justice of the Peace

Wayne County ss: I certify that I am acquainted with the within named officer and that she is a person of truth and veracity
Hiram S'forza Justice of the Peace
STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss. Wayne County Clerk's Office,
I, C. B. Williams Clerk of the County Court, in and for the county and state above mentioned, DO HEREBY CERTIFY, that Hiram S'forza whose genuine signature appears to the annexed jurat, Certificate was, at the time of signing the same a Justice of the Peace in and for the county and state aforesaid, duly elected and sworn; that all his official acts, as such, are entitled to full faith and credit; and that the aforesaid County Court is a court of Record, having general Jurisdiction, a Clerk and Seal.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal, (the seal of said Court and County,) at Lyons, this 17 day of October A. D. 1851.
C. B. Williams CLERK.

STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss. ONONDAGA COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE, }
I Certify, That J. H. Cook whose name is subscribed to the Jurat of the annexed instrument, was, at the time of taking the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, and duly qualified and authorised to take the same. And I further certify that I am well acquainted with his hand-writing, and verily believe the signature to said Jurat is genuine.
the only it said
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County, at Syracuse this 11 th day of November 1850.
Rufus Lussit Clerk.
Nov. 10
S. .
Onondaga
Se o z
to by the the calli are a are D R

State of New York } Onondaga County }
ss: On this 10 th day of November, 1851, personally appeared before me Iamin Swetland a resident of the town of Camillus in Onondaga County, who being by me duly sworn doth depose and say that he is the son of Benjamin and Rosanna Swetland named in the foregoing affidavit of Rachel Baker; that said Benjamin Swetland was a pensioner at the time of his death for services in the Revolution; that the said Rosanna is the same identical person who was the widow of said Benjamin and that she never married but remained his widow at the time of her death June 7. 1837; and deponent further says that he and Sivilla S. Jefferies are the only children and surviving heirs now living of the said Benjamin and Rosanna Swetland, and he makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the pension that is due himself and said Sivilla as Heirs & children of said Rosanna under the act of Congress passed July 4. 1836. and the balance due said Benjamin Swetland at the time of his death, Oct. 24. 1819.
Nov. 10 1851 }
S. H. Cook Justice
Iamin Swetland
Onondaga County Court. Rufus Cossit. Clerk of said Court hereby certifies that it satisfactorily appears to him that the said Rosanna Swetland above named died on the 7 th of June 1837; that she never intermarried but remained the widow of Benjamin Swetland at the time of her death; and that Iamin Swetland and Sivilla S. Jefferies are the only children of said Benjamin & Rosanna Swetland now living - In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed my name and the seal of said court this 11 th day of Nov. 1851.
Rufus Cossit Clerk

Know all men by these presents that I, Sivilla S. Jeffers of Port Byron, Cayuga County, N.Y. do hereby appoint and constitute Iamin Sweetland, my lawful attorney to receive all moneys due the Heirs of Benjamin Sweetland and Rossannah his wife under the act of congress granting a pension to soldiers of the Revolutionary war and the widows of deceased pensioners - In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal Oct.
1851.
Witness Thomas J. Jeffers
Sivilla S. Jeffers
no 6.2
Cayuga County of on this 1 st day of December one thousand Eight hundred and fifty one before me personally came Thomas J. Jeffers subscribing witness to the above power of attorney to me known to who being duly sworn will depose and say that he resides in the town of Maltby in Cayuga County that he knew Sivilla S. Jeffers the individual described in and who executed the said power of attorney that he was present and saw the said Sivilla S. Jeffers seal sign seal and deliver the same as and for her act and deed and that the said Sivilla S. Jeffers then acknowledged the execution thereof when upon the said Thomas J. Jeffers below the subscribing witness then to him Alvin Boote Justice of the Peace in and for Cayuga County

STATE OF NEW-YORK, CAYUGA COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE.
I Certify , That Alvin Barton Esquire, was at the date of the Certificate of Proof or Acknowledgment of the annexed Instrument, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly authorized to take the same: that I am well acquainted with his hand-writing, and verily believe that the signature to said Certificate is genuine. I further Certify that said Instrument is execu- ted and acknowledged according to the Laws of the State of New-York.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto said Commit

Fife-Major of the 2 d Massachusetts Battalion
Benj a Sweetland
Five La Plume.
To Benj a Sweetland of the Third Massachusetts Regiment in the Service of the United States of America.
GREETING.
REPOSING especial Trust and Confidence in your Prudence and good Conduct, I do, by these Presents, appoint you Fife Major to the 3 d Mass s Regiment in the Service of the United States;—you are, therefore, carefully and diligently to discharge the Duty of a Fife Major by doing and performing all Manner of Things thereunto belonging: And I do strictly charge and require all Officers and Soldiers under your Command, to be obedient to your Orders, as Fife Major. And you are to observe and follow such Orders and Directions, from Time to Time, as you shall receive from me, or any of your superior Officers, according to the Rules and Discipline of War, in pursuance of the Trust reposed in you; for which this shall be your sufficient Warrant.
Given under my Hand, at Peekskill August 24. 1779
H. Meaton Col o

A. OSBORNE MAYER WATERVILLE, N. Y.
April 1, 1938
The Veterans' Administration Washington, D. C.
Gentlemen:
I am anxious to apply for membership in "Sons of the Revolution" by right of descent from; Benjamin Swetland, a Fife Major in Captain Job Sumner's company of 3rd, Massachusetts regiment, commanded by Col. John Greaton in the Revolutionary War. He was appointed May 1st, 1777 and was discharged May 1st, 1780. I believe he re-enlisted.
In reply to a request for information in regard to the war record of the said Benjamin Swetland I received some information from the Adjutant General's office in Washington but was advised that the Revolutionary War records in that office are far from complete and it was suggested that further information might be obtained from the Veterans' Administration.
Therefore I am writing to request such information provided it is available and can be furnished without unreasonable effort.
Thanking you I am,
Very truly yours,
A. Osborne Mayer

1938-Apr 21- Visit to C. Catherine Mayer - Et
Acts of July 16, 1866, and March 3, 1873.
10,355
P. O. Rosanna Sweetland
Service: Widow Benjamin Sweetland
Enlisted: Aug 16, 1906 , 18
Discharged: _____, 18
Application filed: _____, 18
Alleges: _____ _____
Re-enlisted: _____ _____
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____ _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18

Pension Office
February 19 th 1862.
Sir:
In reply to your letter of the 13 th inst. I have to inform you, that the children of Benjamin & Rey Rosanna Swettland are not entitled to any pension or arrears of pension under any existing laws.
It appears that Benjamin Swettland drew a pension under act of 18 th March 1818 and died in the year 1819.
His widow applied for a pension, from the  State of South Carolina , under the act of 4 th July, 1836. but the proof showed that she was not entitled under that act, as the law was which required that the marriage should have occurred before the husband left service. He left service in 1781. & the marriage took place June 6. 1782.
In the year 1839. for after the death of the Swettland. her children renewed the application under the act of 7 th July, 1838. but as her death

occurred before its passage viz: the 26 th of June 1878. She had no claim under that act, and her children were so informed.
They have at various times since, sought to revive the claim, but always with the same result has followed.
J. W. Curtis Secy Geneva - Kane Co. Ill.
J. W. Curtis, July 19.

State of New York Madison County } ss.
I, Leavitt Fairchild Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas held at Morrisville in and for the County of Madison aforesaid, do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court that Rosanna Swetland was the widow of Benjamin Swetland, a pensioner of the United States; that said Rosanna Swetland died in the Town of Brookfield, in the County of Madison and State of New York aforesaid, on the 26 th day of June in the year 1838; that she left children whose names are as follows; - Rosanna, wife of Amos Osborn - Cynthia widow of Ebenezer Shattuck - Polly, wife of John Eames, - Janine Swetland - Warren Swetland - Alvah Swetland - Florilla, wife of Reuben Pierce - Sevilla, widow of Thomas Jeffries - and Marcia, wife of James A. Smith; and that the above named children are all except Lyman Swetland who was living at the time of her death, but who has since died without heirs
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Morrisville in said County this 4 th day of February in the year of Our Lord 1841
Leavitt Fairchild
Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in & for the County of Madison aforesaid

J. Clarke
July 24 1888
N.Y.

War Dept. P. Office July 24 1837
In the papers in the case of Mrs Rosanna Sweetland widow of Benjamin Sweetland have been & filed with suspended cases in this office. The proof of the period of marriage is not sufficient. An extract from the town or church records where she was married should be exhibited showing the period of marriage and sworn to by the officer having charge of the same, and the official character & signa- ture of the magistrate should be certified by the proper officer under his seal of office Joseph Clark Esq Brookfield. N York

Rosanna Sweetland N. 3
24 Jan (Original) Joseph Clark aka evidence case Rosanna Sweetland + Shepard
him not been on register
hands name of penins hington City be,

2172
Rosana Sweetland N York
24 June 1837
Mr J. L. Edwards Commonwealth of P Washington
Burlington June 19
1, 6e,

Brockfield Jan 9 th 1837
Dear Sir
After taking the inclosed affidavits I sent to the Town Clerk of Somers Co. for a certificate of the Marriage & have just received his answer. He writes me that he cannot find the marriage of Benjamin Sweetland and that there is some records of marriages in his office about that time recorded in the same year. He therefore cannot give a certificate of this, or that there is no record of marriages, but as the parties resided west of the place and came this to be married no record would be kept therefore no records can be found and I have mentioned all the evidence in my power of the fact there is one person residing in this town who resided over where the parties resided & heard the report of their being secretly married & that they have lived together ever since until the death of her husband. There is no doubt of the marriage as stated and that he was on a farm at the time & her parents opposed the marriage. I hope & trust the evidence will be satisfactory and that a certificate will be sent as soon as possible as she is very needy.
Yours Respectfully
Joseph Clark

U. S. Atty. Office
Syracuse Ap. 7. 1852
Dear Sir — D. C. LeRoy Esq in his life time on behalf of his 2 children applied for the pension of their mother Rosanna Sweetland as widow of their father Benjamin Sweetland — i. e. he applied on behalf of the children by this marriage — Shortly after Mr. LeRays death, which took place last Dec r — a letter came to his address, of which the following is a copy
"Pension office Feb. 7. 1852
Sir The application in behalf of Rosanna Sweetland dec d has heretofore been rejected because she was married after the termination of her husbands service — wherein she had no claim under the act of 4 th July 1836 & she died before the passage of the act of 7 July 1838 & of course was not embraced by it — The same reasons make it necessary to adhere to the rejection — I am Respectfully &c. &c.
J. Willson
for Com d of Pensions"
D. C. LeRoy Esq
Cornelius N. Y. —
None the heirs live here & assure me there is a mistake by Mr. Willson, as to an important

matter of fact, which if so, makes all the difference in the world - viz The father was discharged in Nov. 1783 - he was married Jan y 10, 1782 proved by her sister Rachel Baker's affidavit - sent to the Depart. in Nov r last - after the other papers had been sent to the Depart. This will bring the application within the act of 1836 - I think this aff t must have been overlooked - as I am acquainted with you - I write directly to you stating that you will look to it -
I have seen a letter from the pastor of the Cong l Church in Somers (Con) saying it appears by the records of that ch - that in 1782 Jan y 10 th Benjamin Sweetland married Roxanna Hancock both of Springfield -
The time of his discharge will appear by the records of the Dept - was a pise major when discharged - belonged to the Continental line - please let me hear from you as soon as possible - she died in June 1837 -
Yrs affec t . Jas Mason
Saml Cole Esq Pension Dept Washington

Press Office July 7. 1832
Sir:
The application in behalf of Rosanna Sweetland and has heretofore been rejected because she was married after the termination of her husband's service, wherein she had no claim under the Act of 4 July, 1836, and she died before the passage of the Act of 7 July, 1838, and of course was not embraced by it. The same reasons make it necessary to adhere to the rejection.
D. C. Lerry Esq Camillus N. Y.

Camillus, N.Y. Nov. 12. 1851.
Hon. Sir - Herewith I send you Pension papers in the case of Jamin Swetland - I have heretofore sent papers which entitles him to a balance pension due his Father Benjamin Swetland from Sept. 4 th 1819, to Oct. 24, 1819, the time of his death as per letter received by me from "Jno. S. Gallagher, Audt" - No Draft has been received yet for that balance.
The enclosed papers I think are correct, and entitle him to receive moneys due Rosanna Swetland, widow of said Benjamin, at the time of her death - The application has not before been made, because he could not find proof of his mother's marriage until the past summer - Jamin Swetland has spent much time and money to get proof of that fact, and is very poor. Please write me the amount which will be paid on enclosed papers, and I will send a voucher duly authenticated, or will send a power of Atty. to Daniel T. Jones M.C. elect from this Dist. who will be in Washington soon -
Respect. Yours D. C. Le Roy -

Pension Office, April 9, 1852
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 7 th inst. respecting the case of Rachael Swettland, deceased of Benjamin Swettland, I have to inform you that her husband was discharged on the 18 th November 1781, and as her marriage appears to have taken place on the 18 th January 1782, it was subsequent to the last period of her husband's service.
She was, therefore, not entitled to a pension under the act of 4 July 1836, and having died prior to the passage of the act of 7 July 1838, she was not entitled under that act.
I have the honor to be, Very respectfully Your Obedient
Hon. J. R. 50 Lawrence U.S. Dist. Attorney Syracuse NY
Commissioner of Pensions,
Recd
Rev

Lima Dec 29 1859
To the Honorable J. P. Haldor, Sir
Sometime last August I addressed a line to you, but have received no answer, Regarding the pension of Benjamin Swellands my Father who died in the year of 1819 and previous to his death drew on his pension I think twice, He died September 29 1819 and by searching the records back to that time you will find sufficient testimony to his right and title to his pension and what was his right must come to his Heirs their due lawfully, and justly, according to the laws of our Government, back pension and Warrant must come to us , How many have obtained their Fathers pension right who had their thousands without it and are now enjoying the benefit and why may not we May not he to whom I make this appeal possess the heart of a Washington the Friend of the Widow and Orphan O turn not a deaf ear to this, but answer immediately and say we can obtain it, if proof is necessary to our being his Heirs we can send it immediately we need it, we have not our thousands to boast of like many who enjoy their Fathers pensions

do favor me with an ans swere immediately direct
To Mrs. Lydia Sweetland Pefferies Linn Harilla Sweetland Pierce
Most Respectfully Yours Hon. L. P. Waldo Commission Pension

General Hans Av Ill Feb 13 1862
Pension Office Washington
Dear Sir
I am writing in behalf of a Mrs Cynthia Benton who says she is a Daughter of Benjamin Stewart -and a Revolutionary Soldier and thinks herself entitled to a Pension from the United States.
The Lady is poor & to save expense I have thought best to make the necessary inquiries of you direct, supposing you are familiar with the requirements to establish her right if she has any to a pension.

I wish to know if the lawful wife of Benjamin Sweatland & his wife Rosanna are entitled to a Pension. If they are, what will be the proper course to pursue to get the matter before the proper authorities to obtain it. (Expenses 16.). I suppose the record of Sweatland being a revolutionary Soldier is in your office. He enlisted & served in Massachusetts or Connecticut as a Musician. You will please let me know the particulars, and what will be required on her part, to make her claim good providing she is entitled, at your earliest convenience & you will much oblige yours
Truly.
J. W. Curtis

Mrs. C. D. S. Lewis
or Mrs. F. S. Pierce
Jan. 12/55.

Pension Office Jan'y 12 1855
Madam.
The children of Rosanna Sweetland dec d widow of Benjamin of NY have no claim for a pension or Bounty Land. She died before the passage of any law under which she could have opened a claim. Her children could have no right except under her. Her husband was not entitled to Land. of course, his children have none,
Mrs Sivilla Sweetland Jefferies Simm on Mrs Florilla Sweetland Pierce Sima NY

124
Peruvian Office May 12, 1832.
Sir,
Your letter of the 29 th ult. respecting the arrear due Benjamin Sweetland, Esq. has been referred to J. S. Gallaher, Esq., Third Auditor of the Treasury.
Benjamin Sweetland, Esq. Camillus, NY
PK

Benjamin Sweetland N. York. a to what time paid?
Rev. Office
July 22, 180
To Sept. 4. 1819
John Sepford

2172 NY 10,350 Let to John ... 37 add ... 29 ... 23 ... 4 ... 9, 20 ... 19 Letter to A. Sweetland Dec. 1851 Let to ... 1851 ... 1851 Let to Hon. J. ... since ... 1852 ... 1852 Act 4 July 36 (over)

Pension Office Dec 18 th 1849.
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 10 th inst., I have to inform you that it appears from the Declaration of Benjamin Swelland, formerly a pensioner under the act of 18 March 1818, enlisted in the year 1777 and was discharged in 1780. He also declared that he was honorably discharged but that his discharge was lost. This discharge is not, therefore, on file in this Office.
Abrah Swelland, Esq., Jordan, N.H.
(111)

C O P Y
Pension Office February 6, 1851
D.C. Le Roy Camillus N.Y.
Sir:
The vouchers in the case of Benjamin Swatland, deceased, have been referred to the Third Auditor of the Treasury, that if any arrears are due, the amount may be paid agreeably to the provisions of the acts of 6" April 1838 and 23 August, 1842.
I am, etc.
J.E.Heath, C.P.

Pension Office 391 July 20, 1846
The evidence filed in the Case of Rosanna Swettland dec d Widow of Benjamin Swettland shows that her husband was dis- charged from Service in November 1781, and that they were not married until 11 June 1782. Conse- quently Mrs Swettland had no claim under the act of 4 July 1836. And as she died prior to the 7 July 1838 she of course could have had nothing due her under the act of that date; there was therefore, nothing due her at the time of her death which can now be paid to her Children.
The application of the Children of Mrs Swettland is rejected.
No law has been passed by the present Congress respecting enlisted teamsters. John Fletcher, in his declaration under the act of 18 March 1818 claimed for no service as a teamster
A. O. Osborn Esq Waterville Oneida Co N.Y.

Waterville Oneida Co. N.Y. 20 th June 1846.
Hon S. L. Edwards Com: Pension
Dear Sir,
I herein enclose you the declaration of Rosanna Osborn one of the eldest of the children of Rosanna Scotland decd. as required by you in your letter to one of the 9 th Inst which is accompanied by what I suppose to be "proper evidence as to the children who are now living". There may be a discrepancy of two days as to the time of Rosanna Scotland's death between the statement in the enclosed papers and the evidence sent you in March 1841. If there be it is owing to a confounding of the time of death with the day of burial; the day of death being two days prior to the burial, and the burial having been supposed to be on the 26 th June. The witness was of the same impression now, until from reference to memoranda and circumstances which she distinctly remembered, she became satisfied that her former impression had reference to burial being on the 26 th and not her death. I make this explanatory statement on the supposition that this discrepancy may exist, not that I know it does, for I have forgotten. However it may be, it is so small, that it ought not to affect the validity of any papers; and in computing the time during which she was entitled to a pension the former evidence as to the time of death, may be taken instead of the enclosed. My efforts to procure certain evidence have been unwearied, and they have been I think successful.
The blank declaration

requires an insertion "of the rank the husband held in the army navy or militia, as the case may be, & specify the service he performed &c." Since the declarant has no means of knowing & couldn't declare as to the facts, but as they are presumed to be in the possession of the department I hope it may be unnecessary.
I have again to say to the department that it appears from that their paper should be sufficiently satisfactory. The performance of additional conditions (though deemed by the department necessary to guard against corruption) seems in this case so clearly unnecessary, that none appear. Still it should not be required. to incurred before granting the certificate.
Should any thing further be needed kindly enough to inform me as soon as may be.
Very Respectfully Yours A. D. Osborn

Waterville Quinabec. N.Y. 16 March 1846 Hon J. L. Edwards Comr of Pensions Sir,
In the year, 1839 & 1840 I attempted to obtain for the heirs of Rosanna Suttland the pension which was due to her at the time of her death under the act of July 7 th 1838. The first letter I wrote was in 1839 and the answer rec d was, as follows;—
"War Department Pension Office
August 19, 1839
"Sir,
In answer to the enquiry relative to the claim of Rosanna Suttland, I have to inform you that no further investigation of her claim can be had until an affidavit be produced from the Pastor of the Congregational Church in Somers Connecticut, showing at what time her marriage took place. The affidavit must be drawn up and authenticated according to the enclosed printed instructions.
I am respectfully,
"Your obed. Servt
J. L. Edwards
In accordance with this letter I obtained the affidavit above referred to and forwarded it to the department on the 13 th Dec r 1839. To that evidence & letter enclosing it, I rec d from the Department the following reply;—
"War Department
Pension Office
Feb 3, 1840
"Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 13 th December last enclosing further proof in relation to the marriage of the late Mrs Rosanna Suttland, I have to state

"that in order to obtain the pension due the deceased "at the time of her death, the Court must certify the "day of her death, that she left children, and their "names. On presenting the claim, a pension Certificate "will be issued to the children.
"I am respectfully
"Your obed. Servt.
"J. L. Edwards
In answer to the above instructions, I caused to be prepared a Certificate of the Court containing all the facts required and sent it on to Washington on the 4 th Feb 1841, and to this last Certificate and letter I received the following reply, —
"Pension office
"March 22. 1841
"Sir
"In reply to your letter of the 4 th ultimo "relative to the claim of the children of Rosanna "Sutland, deceased, I have to inform you that the "decedent not being entitled to a pension under "the act of July 4, 1836, rendered it necessary that "she should apply, in order to obtain the benefit "thereof under the act of July 7, 1838. Having died "without applying under that act, her children "must in order to obtain the pension due their mother "up to the time of her death, make a declaration "in conformity with the instructions in the enclosed "printed sheet.
"I am respectfully
"Your obed. Servt.
"J. L. Edwards
"To Ab. Osborn Esq. "Watermill "N York
After the foregoing letter was received I of course was somewhat puzzled to know why such a declaration was necessary inasmuch as every thing that could

reasonably be desired, the department, was already before the department in properly authenticated documents. but I proceeded to conform with the instructions, and examined the enclosed printed instructions, and found that it was impossible to do so. As I had often heard that the department there fear that injustice might consequently be done if pension certificates are granted on slight evidence or the rules of the department are laid aside for the convenience of any one, I concluded that this was a rule necessary to be complied with or the pension could not be granted; and that as the substance of the declaration were, the whole of it, before the department, and the heirs residing all over the northern part of the United States - most of them however in New York - But not, as I can see, make one declaration unitedly nor any without action, more than they could afford, I concluded to drop the matter and let Uncle Sam once more justify the saying that he was ungrateful & keep the money in his own pocket. But I have recently been beset by some of the heirs to try again - they saying that such and such of their acquaintances have procured pensions without any trouble, and they having had so much of it, ought to be successful as they. On looking over the correspondence and referring again to the instructions or rules, I cannot but conclude that you will not require a duty of the heirs to make a declaration which is required, or seems to be so, only in case the widow be living & of such facts as relate rank of her husband &c &c. her marriage record proof of every iota of which is now before the department in as full and complete & authenticated a form and more so than could be done with a mere declaration if it were made. They would have to make as many declarations as there different heirs for no two of them lives in the same County, except two who live in Onondaga Co. In view of these facts and of the evidence on record in the department I trust that you will not continue in persisting in a condition that the law does not

seem to contemplate and which no circumstances, in this case can possibly warrant. The pension is, honestly, due them heirs. They have satisfied the Department from evidence they themselves had required  the Department itself that they are entitled to it. And nothing stands in the way but an exceedingly technical condition which your Honor must see, cannot be performed without great expense & without rendering the proceeding after it is accomplished almost ridiculous and absurd. Be kind enough therefore to send the Certificate as promised in the letter of the 3 rd Feb y 1870. Or if not consistent with your notion of duty, in the discharge of the functions of your office will you direct me how to proceed in making out such a declaration or declarations to be signed & made by the heirs as will be in conformity with the rule, and send me as soon as may be.
I am Respectfully, Your Old Servant, Amos A. Olsson

Pension Office June 9, '40.
Sir,
In answer to your letter of the 16 th March, in the case of Rosanna Swetland, decd. I have to state that it is not necessary a declaration shall be made by each of the children - a declaration made by either, provided it is accompanied by  with proper evidence as to the children  interests  is considered suf-  ficient. who are now living, is considered sufficient.
Amos A. Osborn Esq. Waterville, Oneida Co. N. Y.

Waterville Oneida County, N.Y. 4 th Feby 1841
Mrs. J. L. Edwards
Sir, I enclose you a certificate of the Clerk of the Madison County Common Pleas, that Eudon has been admitted to said Court of the death of Roxanna Sutcliff & the names of her children. Agreeably with the requisites contained in your last, dated Feby 3 d 1840, entitled the heirs to a certificate. Should the Certificate prove satisfactory, the Col. of Allowance of pension may be sent to me.
Truly Yours Obt. Servt A. D. Osborn

Waterville 27 th March 1841
Rev. J. L. Edwards,
Or Sir,
In the first part of February last I sent to you the Certificate of the death of Rosanna Suttland to whom who an applicant for the pension due at the time of her death, and I have not yet received answer, will you have the kindness to inform me whether it has yet been received and what may be the decision of the department upon the matter?
Yours &c Respectfully,
A. D. Osborn

A. O. Osborn
3. Feb. 1840
OC

24 War Department Pension Office Feb. 3. Jan 1840
Sir
In reply to your letter of the 13 th  Dec. last. relative to the enclosing further proof in relation to the marriage of the late Mrs. Roxana Southland I have to state that in order to obtain the pension due the decedent at the time of her death, the court must certify that the day of her death that she left children and their names - On presenting the claim a pension certificate will be issued to the children
A. C. Osborn Esq., Waterville N.Y.

Waterville Onondaga N.Y. 13 th Dec. 1839
Hon J. L. Edwards
Dear Sir,
I enclose you herewith the evidence of the marriage of Rosanna Suttland with Benjamin Suttland, obtained from the records of the Cong. Church in Somers Ct. agreeably with the forms prescribed by the department. If they prove satisfactory, will you be kind enough to inform me as to the steps necessary to obtain the amount due her at her death, for the benefit of her heirs, who are with but a single exception very much in need of the money. Mrs Suttland Died in June 1838; and after I learn the required steps of proceeding I will forward proof of her death the time &c, and the authority which I have for making the application.
Respectfully Yours
Amos D. Osborn

183 14
A. O. Osborn Esq. Waterville Oneida County New York

State of Connecticut County of Tolland
S.S.
County Clerks office
I Jeremiah Parish Clerk of the Courts in sd County of Tolland certify that Walter A. Tibbet Esq is a Justice of Peace within the County of Tolland aforesaid duly appointed and acting in sd capacity & residing in the town of Somers in sd County
That his commission bears date the 8 th day of June 1839 & will continue until the 20 th day of June 1840 also that the signature to the within Certificate purporting to be the official signature signature of sd Justice Tibbet is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name & affixed the seal of sd County at Tolland in sd County of Tolland this 26. day of November A.D. 1839
Jeremiah Parish Clerk of Tolland County Court

C. O. Osborn
19 Aug. 1839
OC

War Dep t Pension Office Aug. 19. 1839
377
Sir,
In answer to the enquiry relative to the claim of Rosanna Sweetland, widow of Benjamin Sweetland, I have to inform you that no further investigation of her claim can be had until an affidavit be produced from the Pastor of the Congregational Church in Somers, Conn. showing at what time her marriage took place. The affidavit must be drawn up and authenticated according to the enclosed printed instructions.
A. O. Osborn Esq. Waterville N. York
act 1836 No. 2172

Waterville Quodlibet. N.Y.
7 August 1839
Hon. J. T. Edwards
Dear Sir,
Sometimes during the year 1837 Mrs Rosanna wife of Benjamin Tuckland deceased, through the agency of Joseph Clark Esq of Brookfield Madison Co. in this State, undertook to procure a pension under the act of 1836. Having made out the necessary papers as he supposed, they were forwarded on to Washington, from whence a return soon after came, stating that need evidence of the fact of marriage, could it possibly be procured, was required by the department before a certificate could be allowed. Mr Clark accordingly set himself about obtaining this evidence; and the result was so far successful as to enable him to find evidence on the records kept by the successive pastors of the Congregational Church and Society in Lovers, County of Tolland & State of Connecticut that Mrs Rosanna Tuckland and her husband, that is, "Benjamin Tuckland & Rosanna Hancock both of Springfield" were married on the 6 th day of June 1782. Mr Clark informs me that this fact the true is inconsistent with the affidavit which Mrs T. made in relation to her marriage; and that the fact, tho' it debars her from the pension she sought to procure, nevertheless entitled her to one under the act of 1838. Mrs T. was ignorant and liable to forget as to whether she was married prior or subsequent to the expatriation of her husband's service; and certainly the fact

claims should not be prejudiced by an honest error of memory. At the time this evidence was obtained, Mr. Calhoun was in Connecticut; and in view of the fact intended on his return to obtain a pension under the act of 1838; but learning that she died (24 June 1838) during his absence gave up the undertaking entirely. Since then I have been requested by the heirs, who are entitled to what would have been allowed her, and who are with one or two exceptions poor and exceedingly in need of the money however small the amount, to endeavour to procure it. Accordingly the papers have been transferred to me including the necessary evidence as to the marriage; and I write this to ask whether agreeably to such facts as I have related, the heirs of Mrs. T. can hope to succeed? and if so, what is it necessary to do in order to obtain it? A prompt answer will greatly oblige
Hon. J. L. Edwards Com. of Pensions
Your Obedient Servant
A. D. Osborn

Alsea 7 Yaquina 5 Nehalem 6 Salmon 4 Nestucca 3 Tillamook 2 Heceta 1  Benjamin Smethland R. 103455 Mass.

Benjaman Snethland a Soldier in Col. Canfield's Regt Time in Service being Nearly Expired is Discharged for Inability with Liberty to Pass to Connecticut S. P. Canfield Lt Col
West Point 10 Nov 1781
M c Arthur Col o

Rev. Morris L. Miller Esq.
Benjamin Southland

Langport 8 th April 1818
Hon. Morris L. Miller Esq.
Sir,
Mr Benjamin Sweetland the bearer was a Soldier of the Revolution - He is a man of fair Character - We think "that from his reduced circumstances He needs the assistance of his Country for Support" -
Joseph Bacon & Amos Osborn are respectable men. Their statement is entitled to the full credit. 9 ap r . 1818
A. S. Miller
Respectfully
Yours &c
Joseph Bacon
Amos Osborn