Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 27,494, for Nathaniel Tompkins, Rhode Island

SERVICE
NUMBER
R.I.
Tompkins, Nathaniel Sarah
N. 27,494
CONTENTS

27496  the Rhode Island Nathaniel Tompkins
of Little Compton in the State of R.I. who was a private in the Comp commanded by Captain Wild of the Rige t commanded by Colo. Cook - in the R.I. line for
24 Months. Private
Inscribed on the Roll of . . . . R.I. at the rate of 80 - Dollars - Cents per annum. Insc ri commence on the 4th day of March, 1831. at the
Certificate of Pension issued the 1 th day of July 1831 and sent to Hono. T Robbins Senate US
Arrears to the 4th of March 1833 - $160  on the day of his death Semi-ant. allowance ending 16 Mar. 33 - 1. 32 $161 32
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by George Taylor Clerk, Book 6 Vol. 2 Page 132

See let to P. Agent May 10. 1838
Rhode Island 2019
Sarah Tompkins dec. of Nathaniel Tompkins dec.
R 16 March 1833 who died on the 16 March 1833 of Newport Co in the State of R. I. who was a Private in the Company commanded by Captain Wild of the Regt. commanded by Col. Cook in the R. I. line for 21 months Payment to be made to Persimilla Tompkins only child of said deceased
Inscribed on the Roll of Rhode Island at the rate of - 60 - Dollars - Cents, per annum, to commence on the 16th day of March, 1833.
Certificate of Pension issued the 9 day of May 1838 and sent John G. Crop Portsmouth R. I.
Arrears to the 16th of March 1837 $240.00 Semi-annual allowance ending July 18th 1837 the day of her death 20.00 $260.00
{ Revolutionary Claim, Act July 4, 1836, Section the 3. }
Recorded by H. Addison Clerk, Vol. 2. Page 99

V376 Sarah Tompkins dec Widow of Nathaniel Tompkins See No 3240
No 376

Declaration.
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed July 4. 1836.
State of Rhode Island County of Newport ss.
In the 11th day of October A.D. 1836.
Personally appeared before the Court of Probate of Little Compton in the County of Newport, a Court of Record, Sarah Tompkins a resident of said Little Compton in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island, aged Seventy Seven 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 the widow of Nathaniel Tompkins, late of Little Compton, and late a Revolutionary soldier in the Militia of said Town and at Newport in the service of the State of Rhode Island during the war of the Revolution, and also late a pensioner of the United States.
I was married to my said husband during the war of the Revolution, we were both born, and always lived in this Town of Little Compton - And before our marriage lived near to each other - I knew him to be much in the service before, as well as after our said marriage - I had two children born after said marriage and before the close of the war.
After our marriage, when my husband was away in the service, I had to do, and did many things, out of doors, that women in those times think they cannot do - we suffered great privations at that time.
For a particular statement of my late husband's revolutionary services, and the evidence in relation thereto, I respectfully refer to his original declaration on file in the Pension Department, and to the proofs therewith, - saving to myself the right hereafter, to prove his Revolutionary services as performed after our said marriage, if they are not stated and proven in said declaration.
And I further declare that I was married to the said Nathaniel Tompkins on the 7th day of January, Seventeen hundred and Eighty one (1781). That my husband, the said Nathaniel Tompkins, died March 16th, in the year A.D. 1833; and that I have remained a widow ever since that Period, as will more fully appear by reference to the proofs hereto annexed.
Sarah Tompkins
I, Mark I, subscribed, on the day and year above written before, and in open Court.
And Said Court Certifies, that they believe the statements herein made, by S d . Sarah Tompkins to be true - and that she is a credible person - and that S d . Sarah Tompkins is the widow, of S d . Nathaniel Tompkins late of S d . Little Compton, and late a pensioner of the United States - She S d . Sarah never having married since her S d . husband's decease.
I Alexander R. Brownell Clerk of S d . Court of Probate, do hereby certify that the foregoing, are the original proceedings, in the Application of S d . Sarah Tompkins for a pension.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 11th day of October A.D. 1836 - And of American Independence the Sixty First.
Witness A. R. Brownell Probate Clerk.

R.S.
Nathl. Tompkins of Little Compton 22/89.
Admitted 24 Months /ni
Capt Wild Colo. Cook
died on the 16 th day of March 1823. - Certificate Issued in favour of his Widow Sarah Tompkins.
Chris. E. Robbins - A. Robbins Senate - case of Hon.

Declaration.
State of Rhode Island &c. County of Newport, Town of Little Compton Ss.
On this third day of October, A.D. 1832, personally appeared in open Court, before the Court of Probate of Little Compton, in the county and State aforesaid, at an adjourned session thereof, Nathaniel Tompkins, a resident of said Little Compton, aged seventy five years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath make the following Declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress passed June 7, 1832.
That he was first draughted as a private in the militia company of Little Compton, commanded by Capt. George Simmons, September 1775; and was immediately marched to Rhode Island and stationed at the Barracks House, near Newport. The object in moving this force was to repel the incursions of the famous Wallace and others, who were continually making attempts upon the Islands and carrying off stock. Declarant served two months, if not more, at this period, in the company aforesaid, first under Capt. George Simmons; and then under Walter Palmer and James Pearce. Declarant was one of the party at this time, that by order of Colonel William Richmond, took possession of the house, where the King's collector, Mr. Dudley, had resided, and who at that time had absconded, & taken refuge in the fleet.
That in October, 1776, he was enlisted as a private in Captain Henry Wilds' company of State troops, in the regiment of which John Cook, of Tiverton, was Colonel. Said company was stationed at Capt. Wilds' house, on the Point in Newport and declarant continued in service three months, when the British having got possession of Newport, the whole American force was compelled to retreat; and declarant was discharged.
That in December 1776, very soon after his discharge from the State troops, he was draughted as a private in the militia company of Little Compton, commanded by Capt. George Simmons to do duty as guards in protecting the shores of Little Compton from the incursions of the enemy.

He must specify each particular time of active service, the length of the same when beyond 2. & the names of all the officers under whom he served
4
Declarant immediately entered upon this duty, and continued to serve in the same the whole period that the British were in possession of Rhode Island - say two years and nine months. The arrangement of duty was the following, to wit: one half of the company was on duty for one month; and then relieved by the other half, the succeeding month; and so on, alternately, so long as the necessity for a guard should continue, - the whole company at the same time being liable to duty, and ready at a moment's warning, when called on. Declarant served in this manner not only his own turn, every alternate month; but frequently as a substitute for others, among whom he recollects
and for a period of time equal to one year and ten months
Declarant understands that said draught was made under authority of the act of the General Assembly, of December 1776, which placed all male persons liable to bear arms in the State under the orders of the Governor or Commanders for the time being to be marched draughted and marched to such places as said authorities should direct.
Declarant further states upon oath as aforesaid that at the time of Sullivan's expedition, August 1778, he was again draughted and served as a private in Capt. George Simmons company of militia - that he marched to Rhode Island and continued on duty in said company till Sullivan's retreat, viz one month, when the company having returned to Little Compton, declarant was discharged.
That at the time the French army left Rhode Island for the South viz May 1781, he was draughted and served as a private in Captain Benjamin Gooch's company of Little Compton militia, for a further period of one month. This company was called into service and stationed at Brenton's point for the purpose of relieving the French. At the expiration of said month, declarant was discharged.
That some time during the occupation of Rhode Island by the British an alarm having been excited that the enemy's fleet was moving from the harbor of

Newport, with the intention of destroying Bristol &c. declar- ant was ordered out as a private, in Captain George Simmons company of militia, and did duty at Howland's ferry for one month, when the alarm subsided and the troops were discharged.
That in the autumn of the year, 1779, declarant was draughted as a private, and did duty in Capt. Rowse Pearce's company of Little Compton militia, for the term of one month. An alarm having been raised, that the British were preparing to return to Rhode Island, with a view to reoccupy it, this company and others were marched to Butts's Hill to assist in its defence. After remaining at this station for the time be- fore mentioned, declarant was discharged.
That in 1781, declarant was enlisted as a private in Captain Henry Dayton's company of R.S. State troops and served therein a term of five months, when he received his discharge. This company was stationed the whole of said term, in the town of Newport, after all the foreign troops, British, and French, had left it, to protect the town, and to take charge of the ordnance, arms, magazine &c. 5- See why 13
Declarant further states upon oath as aforesaid that he was born in Little Compton, in the then colony of Rhode Island December 16 th , 1756. That a record of his birth is to be found in the Town clerk's office of said town, a proper certificate of which from the present town clerk will be here unto annexed: That he was living at the time of his first being draughted in the militia 1775 in said town of Little Comp- ton; that he has lived there ever since the revolutionary war and that he now lives there; That he is unable to give with more precision than he has herein attempted the former day, month and year when he entered the service or when he left the same; that he never received any written dis- charge from either of the companies in which he served as aforesaid, nor was it customary in the Revolution to grant such certificates; that he has no documentary evidence

of the services he has sworn to, nor did he ever profess any: That as to manner of his being called into service and the names of the officers under whom he served, they are both succinctly stated in the preceding part of this Declaration. And that he claims to have served in the whole, three years actual service.
Declarant further states that he refers to Nathaniel Grey and Walter Wilbur, as persons to whom he is he known in his present neighbourhood, who can testify to his character for veracity, and their belief of his services as a soldier of the Revolution.
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension, or annuity, except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any State.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year above written in open Court.
Nathaniel Tompkins Witness J. H. BROWNELL Probate Clerk.
We, Nathaniel Grey residing in Little Compton, in the county of Newport, and State of Rhode Island and Walter Wilbur residing in the same Little Compton, hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Nathaniel Tompkins, who has subscribed and sworn to the above Declaration; that we believe him to be seventy five years of age; and that he is reputed and believed in the neighbourhood, where he resides to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion, and that we believe him to be a person of veracity.
Sworn to and subscribed in open Court, the day and year above written
Walter Wilbur Nathl Grey Witness J. H. BROWNELL Probate Clerk.

And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the war department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary soldier and served as he states. And the Court further certifies that Walter Wilbor, who has signed the preceding certificate is a resident of Little Compton, and that Nathaniel Gray, who has also signed the same is also a resident of the same Little Compton, and are both credible persons, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, Alexander K. Brownell, Clerk of the Court of Probate of the Town of Little Compton in the county of Newport and State of Rhode Island, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of said Court in the matter of the application of Nathaniel Tompkins for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the Seal of said Court this third day of October, A. D. 1832.
A. K. Brownell Probate Clerk
The testimony of the nearest clergyman having been requested, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of the applicant, the Court think it proper to state that the Rev. Emerson Paine, having been recently settled in this place and the only one who could be conveniently called upon, was not sufficiently acquainted with the applicant to be used as such. [August 10 th 1833 Amended by order of Court - by placing hereunto the Seal of the Court & my signature]
A. K. Brownell Probate Clerk

Town Clerk's Office, Little Compton January 8 th 1833. I hereby Certify that Nathaniel Tompkins the Son of Micah Tompkins & Sarah his Wife was born December the 15 th 1756. as of record doth appear.
Witness A. P. B. W. M. H. Town Clerk.

I the Subscriber of Tiverton County of Newport & State of Rhode Island, do hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Nathaniel Tompkins of Little Compton, County & State above said, and are knowing that he was a Revolutionary Soldier, that he served in Capt. Henry Wiles' Company of Infantry, in Col. John Cook's Regiment, for three Months in the year 1776 - also that he Served in Capt. Henry Doytons Company of In- fantry for five Months in the year 1781. all in the County of Newport & State of Rhode Island, and that I served said terms with him.
Nahabod Simmons
State of Rhode Island County of Newport ss
Be it known, That on the 22 nd Day of August 1832. Before the Subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in & for said County, personally appeared Nahabod Simmons and made oath to the truth of the above Certificate by him subscribed - And I do hereby Certify that the Deponent is a Credible Person
Nahabod Simmons Just. Peace

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations Clerk's Office of the Court of Probate for the Town of Tiverton, in the County of Newport & State aforesaid I Asa Gray, Clerk of said Court of Probate, do hereby certify that Abner Simmons whose signature is affixed to the within deposition is a Justice of the Peace for the Town of Tiverton in said County of Newport duly commissioned under the seal of said State, and engaged thereon according to law, and qualified to act in said capacity, and I do further certify that the signature of his name affixed to the within dep- osition is in his hand writing
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of our said Court, at Tiverton aforesaid this twelfth day of September in the year One thousand eight hundred and thirty two
Asa Gray Clerk of Court of Probate
Court of Probate, Little Brp. Nov. R. L. October 3 rd — 1832.
Read in open Court, and directed to be attached to the Declaration of Nathaniel Tompkins an affidavit for a perjury under the act of Jan'y 5 th 1822 Witness:
J. N. B. W. W. Probate Clerk.

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantation Newport ss - Little Compton this Eighth day of August 1832, John Davis Esq. of Woodstock Ct. being duly sworn before me testifieth that Nathaniel Tompkins did duty in Capt Wilder's Company in Col. John Cook, Regiment of State Troops, at Newport, also did duty in the Militia under me , in Little Compton the present time not registered. — John Davis
Court of Probate, Little Compton R. I. October 3 rd 1833
Read in open Court, and directed to be attached to the Declaration of Nathaniel Tompkins, an applicant for a pension under the act of June 7 th 1832.
Witness,
J. B. Brownell Probate Clerk.

William Woodman, of Little Compton, in the State of Rhode Island, of lawful age, upon solemn oath, deposes and says, that he was well acquainted with Nathaniel Tompkins, who has this day subscribed and sworn to his Declaration in open Court in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress of June 7 th 1832: that he is knowing to the fact that said Tompkins was one of the company of militia under George Simmons, which marched to Rhode Island 1775- to repel the incursions of Captain Wallace - that he was a fellow soldier in said company and was stationed at the Bannister House; said Tompkins served at that time about two months or over. Deponent can testify to the truth of the statement of said Thomas Tompkins as to the manner & time of guard duty - in Little Compton, while the British were in possession of Rhode Island - deponent is knowing to said Tompkins having performed said duty, having been frequently with him. Deponent further states, that he was a private in the same company of militia commanded by Capt. George Simmons, which was ordered out & did a month's duty at Howlands ferry on an alarm of an attempt on Bristol &c as stated by said Tompkins. Deponent is knowing also to the month's service at Butts' Hill, which is sworn to by the declaration & 1779 as having occurred in 1779. William Woodman
State of Rhode Island v-
Newport &c.
Court of Probate, Town of Little Compton, October 3 rd 1832.
Then personally appeared in open Court William Woodman, subscriber to the foregoing Deposition, who (having first heard read the Declaration of Nathaniel Tompkins this day made, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress, passed June 7 th 1832) made solemn testimony to the truth of all and singular the matters and things

in said deposition stated, and by him subscribed. And the Court further certify that said William Woodman is a person of good standing in the church, and that his statements are entitled to full credit and belief.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand Seal of said Court.
J. H. B. W. Miller Probate Clerk.

George Brown, of Little Compton in the State of Rhode Island, being of lawful age, upon solemn oath deposes and says, that he is well acquainted with Nathaniel Tompkins, who has this day subscribed and sworn to his Declaration in open Court, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress of June 7 th , 1832: that he, (the deponent) is knowing to the fact of his having served in Captain George Simmons of militia on Sept. 1778 - having been a private in the same company & served with said deponent - but for what length of time he is unable to state. Deponent knows also, that said Tompkins enlisted and did duty as a private in Captain Henry Wilds State troops for three months, as stated in his Declaration - having been one of said company himself. That as to the guard duty in Little Compton, which is sworn to by the declarant - the deponent can state, that he is knowing to said Tompkins having performed said duty in the manner pointed out by him - but for the exact length of time or particular months he is unable to speak. He knows generally that said Tompkins was on guard, while the British were in possession of Rhode Island.
George Brown
Newport R.I.
State of Rhode Island &c
Court of Probate of Little Compton October 3 rd 1832 Then personally appeared in open Court George Brown, subscriber to the foregoing Deposition, who having first heard read the declaration of Nathaniel Tompkins this day made, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress passed June 7 th , 1832 made solemn oath to the truth of all the matters and things in said deposition contained by him subscribed. And the Court further certify, that said George Brown is a person of good reputation and standing & that his statements are entitled to full faith & credit. For witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of said Court.
[Signature] Probate Clerk

John Brown, of Little Compton in the State of Rhode Island of lawful age, upon solemn oath deposes and says, that he is well acquainted with Nathaniel Pomfret, who has subscribed and sworn to his Declaration, in open Court, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress, passed June 7 th , 1832; that he is knowing to the facts that said Pomfret served as he states in Capt George Simon's company of Artillery, August 1778, in Sullivan's expedition - that this deponent was a tent-mate with said declarant, and served out with him the entire month therein stated. John Brown
State of Rhode Island v.
Newport Sc.
Court of Probate of Little Compton October 3 rd , 1832.
Then personally appeared in open Court John Brown, subscriber to the foregoing deposition, who (having first heard read the Declaration of Nathaniel Pomfret to this Court made, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress passed June 7 th , 1832,) made solemn oath to the truth of all and singular the matters and things in said deposition contained by him subscribed. And the Court further certify, that said John Brown is a person of good reputation and standing fully entitled to credit. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & the seal of said Court. J. H. Brown Probate Clerk.

Owen Greenell of Little Compton in the State of Rhode Island of lawful age, upon solemn oath, deposes and says, that he is well acquainted with Nathaniel Tompkins who has sworn to and subscribed to his Declaration in open Court, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress of June 7, 1832. That he is knowing to the fact that said Tompkins was drafted and served as a private in Captain Benjamin Coe's company of militia in 1781, as stated in his Declaration, for the period of one month at Brenton's Point. This deponent was a private and fellow soldier with said Tompkins in the above service, having acted as waiter to their commander Capt. Benj. Coe.
Newport R.I.
Owen Greenell
State of Rhode Island
Court of Probate of Little Compton. October 3, 1832.
Then personally appeared in open court, Owen Greenell, subscriber to the foregoing deposition, who (having first heard read the declaration of Nathaniel Tompkins to this Court made, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress passed June 7, 1832) made solemn oath to the truth of all and singular the matters & things in said deposition contained, by him subscribed. And the Court further certify, that said Owen Greenell is a person of good reputation & standing, & fully entitled to credit.
For witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & the seal of said Court.
J. M. [Signature] Probate Clerk.

Thomas White of Little Compton, in the State of Rhode Island of lawful age, upon solemn oath, deposes and says that he is well acquainted with Nathaniel Tompkins, who has subscribed and sworn to his Declaration in open court in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress of June 7 th 1832. That he is knowing to the fact that said Tompkins served as he states, in Capt Geo. Simmons company of militia, August 1778, in Sullivan's expedition - that this deponent was a tent-mate with said declarant & served out with him the entire month therein stated.
Thomas White
State of Rhode Island &
Newport R.I.
Court of Probate of Little Compton
October 3 rd 1832.
Then personally appeared Thomas White, subscriber to the foregoing deposition, who (having first heard read the declaration of Nathaniel Tompkins to this court made, in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress, passed June 7 th 1832) made solemn oath to the truth of all and singular the matters and things in said deposition contained, by him subscribed. And the court further certifies that the said Thomas White is a person of good reputation standing fully entitled to credit. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand the seal of said court.
A. B. Williams Probate Clerk.

3240
Parmelia Tompkins only child & heir of Samuel Tompkins, who was the widow of Samuel Tompkins - Samuel died 16 March 1833. Samuel died 18 th July 1837 See No. 376
Issue cert. in name of Parmelia Tompkins at the rate of $100 per annum from 16 March 1833 to 18 July 1837
In Trust Poulton & Co R B

State of Rhode Island & County of Newport ss.
In this 11 th day of December A.D. 1837, personally appeared before the Court of Probate of Little Compton, in the County of Newport, a court of record, Pennilla Tompkins, a resident of sd. Little Compton, in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island, the daughter of Nathaniel Tompkins and Sarah Tompkins his wife late of this town, and now both deceased, the said Nathaniel having been in his life time a revolutionary soldier, and the sd. Sarah having been an applicant for a pension under the Act of Congress of July 4 th 1836, and being first duly sworn, on oath, doth make the following Declaration: That she was fifty one years of age, on the 20 th day of February last past, and that she had always lived with her parents the sd. Nathaniel and Sarah, in said Little Compton, up to the death of her said Father, which happened on the 16 th day of March 1833. And then continued to live with and take care of her aged Mother, the said Sarah until her decease, which took place on the 13 th day of July A.D. 1837.
That she hath from her earliest recollections, and for a great number of times, heard her sd. Father tell over his revolutionary services, and the trials and hardships he then endured. In the last part of his life it was the principal subject of his conversation.
That she hath heard her said Father, in his life time, state that in the first part of the Revolutionary war, he enlisted under Capt. Wildes for three months and went to Newport, and was there a soldier in sd. Company, when the Enemy took the town in December 1776 - That after his time was out he came home, and was directly ordered into the public service in the Militia company to which he belonged, in this town under Capt. Simmons, and that he was in the service all of the first winter the Enemy were on Rhode Island, and until the spring of the year 1777 - That then the sd. Company of Militia to which he belonged, was divided into two parts, and that those parts served alternately in the public service, for one month at a time, until the Enemy left Rhode Island in the autumn of the year 1779 - and that during this period he was on Rhode Island in the Expedition under Gen. Sullivan.
She hath heard her sd. parents, the sd. Nathaniel and Sarah, often mention that they were married during the war of the Revolution, while the French Troops were in Newport, and that after their Marriage her said Father was in the public service, a soldiering on Rhode Island, for at least two several times. The last of which time he enlisted into one Capt. Saylors Company, after coming home, I believe in the month of October 1781, and that his time was out about the middle of the succeeding March 1782, having been in the service for five months - She hath heard her sd. Father and Mother often mention this service, as being the longest time he was from home, at any one time, during sd. War - Her sd. Father did perform much Military service during sd. war, which she hath often heard him relate - but she cannot now remember the exact order or duration of sd. service, as she took no written notes of them at the time, and in this declaration has to rely wholly on her memory - She believes that her said Father had the reputation of being a good soldier - She respectfully refers to the testimony in her sd. Fathers case, now in the Pension Department, as more particularly regards the duration

and Manner of said services - And she humbly prays that his statements in his declaration made, be impartially considered, as he could remember much better when he made them than she now can.
And she further solemnly declares that for sometime before the decease of her s d Mother, the said Sarah, the latter was incapable from bodily weakness, brought on by long and continuous sickness, of making a supplementary declaration, of which she knew of the said Nathaniel's revolutionary services -
She therefore humbly prays, that the pension due to her s d Mother, the said Sarah, for her s d Father, the said Nathaniel's revolutionary services, be paid to the surviving child or children of the said Nathaniel and Sarah Tompkins.
Permillia Tompkins
Sworn to, & subscribed, the day and year aforewritten in open Court. And the Court do further certify that said Permillia, is a credible witness - and that they believe the statement by her made, of her late father, the said Nathaniel's revolutionary services are just and true.
I Alexander H. Brownell Clerk of said Court, of Probate do hereby certify, that the foregoing are the proceedings in the application of s d Permillia Tompkins for a pension - having reference to the papers in the case, of Nathaniel Tompkins for a pension, & Sarah Tompkins, his widow; both deceased.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & seal of office, this 11 th day of December A D 1837. - And of American Independence the sixty first.
A. H. Brownell Probate Clerk.

Town Clerk's Office, Little Compton December 8 th 1836. I certify that Nathaniel Son of Micah Tompkins dec d & Sarah his Wife, & Sarah Daughter of Isaac Snell dec d & Sarah his Wife, were joined in Matrimony this Day ————— For Jonathan Ellis Clerk.
Dated Little Compton January ye 7 th A. 1831.
As appears of record in this Office. —
Witness A. BROWNELL Town Clerk.
Town Clerk's Office, Little Compton December 8 th 1836. I certify that Nathaniel Tompkins, of this Town Died on the 16 th day of March. A.D. 1833. 3
As appears of record in this Office. —
Witness A. BROWNELL Town Clerk.
I Alexander R. Brownell of Little Compton in the County of Newport, and State of Rhode-Island, of lawful age, being duly sworn declare, That on the 30 th day of August A.D. 1836. I was duly elected Town Clerk, of said Town of Little Compton, for the term of one year, or until another shall be legally chosen, That on the same day, to wit, on the 30 th day of August 1836. I was duly sworn into said Office according to Law — And that ever since said period, and I do at the present time legally hold said Office. —
And I further declare that the above copy by me signed, in my official capacity, is true, from the records in my office. —
A. BROWNELL
State of Rhode Island } County of Newport } S.S.
Personally appeared before me at Little Compton in said County of Newport on the 10 th day of December A. 1836. the above named A. B. Brownell, and subscribed, and was duly sworn to the foregoing deposition according to Law —
I further certify that the said A. B. Brownell is to me personally known, and is a credible witness; and that he is the town clerk for the Town of Little Compton.
Philip H. Little Justice Peace

State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations
Newport Je
Clerks Office, Court of Common Pleas Newport December 13 th A.D. 1836
I Geo. L. Shaw, Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in the County aforesaid, being a Court of Record, do hereby certify that Philip S. Little before whom Alexander H. Brownell was sworn (as within written,) is a Justice of the Peace in the Town of Little Compton in the County aforesaid. was appointed by the General Assembly, and commissioned by the Governor of this State, and is fully authorized to act in his said capacity, and that his signature afore written is genuine. —
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affix the seal of the said Court at Newport on the day and year aforesaid.
Geo. L. Shaw — Clerk

Key
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 27.494 Sarah Tompkins wid. of Mathaniel Tompkins Rev. B.W. war.
Act July 4 th 1836.
Index: Vol M , Page 423
[Arrangement of 1870.]

R. V Island Sarah Tompkins Letter to Mr. Croft. 16. Nov. '37.

Hon. James L. Edwards Court of Pensions

Portsmouth R.I. Sept. 21. 1837
Sir The further evidence in the case of Mrs. Sarah Pompekins (now dec d .) are herewith enclosed - It had been the intention of the dec d to have made a supplementary statement of what she knew about her late husband, Revolutionary war but for a long time before her death (or since last May) she had become unable to do it - She had for a long time been bed-ridden, and been taken care of by this Maiden daughter And who alone (No other living in the house) has truly per- -formed her filial duty - amidst the trials and privations of poverty. - for they were  were poor - I mention this by request, and believe it to be strictly true. -
I have the honor to be, with Great Respect Your obedt. Servant
Hon. James S. Edwards Comm. of Pensions N. City
Mrs. Cross

Portsmouth R.I. October 17. 1836.
Sir
I herewith enclose the Application of Sarah Humphins for a pension, under the act of Congress of the 11th of July last - will you be pleased to make any further communication upon the subject to me at this place.
I have the Honor to be, very Respectfully Your Obdt. Servant -
M c Grath.
Hon. James C. Edwards Comm r of Pensions W. City

Hon. James G. Edwards Court of Pensions

Portsmouth R.I. Dec r 26, 1836.
I herewith return the certificate of marriage of Sarah Tompkins of Little Compton, Authenticated in the Mode pointed out by you, in your letter of the 25 th of Oct. last. - (Alexander R. Brownell has been Clk. of the Town of Little Compton for a number of years. & was last Elected to that office on the 30 th day of August last, for one year from that time, and has been since that time, and is now duly qualified, to perform the duties of said office, as will appear from his affidavit herewith. I hope this authentication will answer for all the Little Compton cases, until his term of office expires.)
The said Sarah Tompkins, has been very infirm in health for a number of years, and is now, and has been for some time, laid upon a bed of sickness from which, it is not probable, she will ever recover - she was left quite poor, and is now in very destitute circumstances -
The Original Declaration of Nathaniel Tompkins, the husband of said Sarah, was made by himself, in his life time, (as I have understood) but that his pension was not granted until after his decease - and was paid, up to the day of his death, to his present widow - He, no doubt, remembered his services, and stated them as near as he could - his Neighbors all give him the character of an honest and upright man - and the few who remain, who were his fellow soldiers in Arms, in the guard service, on the shores of our town, will testify to the promptitude and cheerfulness of the man in performing his full share of military duty, during the whole time the Enemy were on Rhode Island. from 1776 to 1779 - he appears to have been a very prominent soldier in his Company -
But the services alleged in his case (as appears from your letter of the above date) of three Months under Capt. Wilde in 1776 - and five Months under Capt. Dayton in 1781, are very difficult to prove - a person who, now could find one living witness, in either of these services would be fortunate indeed - And I think that not one case, in ten, in a similar service, performed in this state at that time, could a living witness be found, who was with the person - These alleged services are in exact accordance with the order of service at that time in this state - Three were raised for three Months in the latter part of the year 1776, and were on Rhode Island at the time the Enemy landed there in Dec. 1776 - And after the Enemy left Rhode Island in 1779 - and the term of the State Brigade expired in March 1780 - The only force we had to depend upon, was a sort of light Corps of Volunteers and Militia, mainly stationed at Newport through the years 1780 81 & 82 - And it seems, from the testimony of many, that a man could stay for one month or more as he chose, and some staid for more than a year in this service at Newport at the period above referred to -
The wid. Sarah aforesaid, does not know, who the witnesses were, in her said husband's case - and prays that upon this Explanation, you will waive the objections in her case - Or that if any thing further should be required - that you would please forward on to me her said husband's papers - and she will try to correct it as far as she is able -
With Great Respect, I am Yours obedt. Servt.
Hon. Jas. L. Edwards Comm. of Pensions W. City
No. Cross

I Ichabod Simmons of Tiverton in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island, a revolutionary soldier, of lawful age, being duly sworn according to law depose and say - That I was well acquainted with Nathaniel Tompkins, late of the adjoining town of Little Compton. From my earliest recollection up to his death - during the revolutionary war we lived, when we were both at home, about three miles apart.
In the Fall of the year 1776 I enlisted into Capt Wildes Company for three months, and we were quartered at Newport when the Enemy came there, we then retreated off the Island of Rhode Island at Howlands ferry, and were quartered near D. ferry until our times were out, when we were discharged - The Company was under the command of Col. John Cook - in this 1 st Company of Capt Wildes. The D. Nathaniel was also a soldier, and served therein for three months -
In the fall of the year 1780 I came out of the three years service - and the next spring, in April or May 1781 - I was with D. Nathaniel one month at Newport, in the Militia, I think one Capt Allen commanded the company we belonged to -
In the fall of the same year 1781, I believe in the month of October the said Nathaniel and myself enlisted into Capt. Dayton Company, for five months, we joined the company immediately at Newport where we were quartered till March 1782, when our times were out, and we returned home. I do not know what Regiment this company of Capt. Dayton belonged to - After much reflection, I think I cannot be mistaken as to the number of months, that D. Nathaniel & myself enlisted for at that time and we served our times out - All the foregoing is according to my best recollection -
Ichabod Simmons
State of Rhode Island County of Newport ss.
Personally appeared before me at Tiverton in the County of Newport this nineteenth day of June A. D. 1837. The above named Ichabod Simmons did subscribe, and was duly sworn to the foregoing deposition according to law. I further certify that he the said Ichabod is a credible Witness.
P. F. Little Justice of the Peace

State of Rhode Island &c, } County of Newport } S.S.
Clerk's office of the Court of Probate; a Court of Record, of Little Compton in s d County of Newport-
I hereby certify that Philip F. Little whose signature is affixed, is his own proper hand writing to the foregoing Deposition of Ichabod Simmons, was at the time of taking said deposition, a Justice of the Peace within and for s d County of Newport, duly commissioned, under the seal of s d State, and engaged thereon according to law. And that said Philip F. Little is duly Authorized to take depositions by the laws of said State.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of s d office on this nineteenth day of June - A.D. 1837.
J. H. Brown Probate Clerk.

I William Grinnell of Little Compton in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island, a revolutionary soldier, of lawful age, being duly sworn on my Corporal oath declare, — That I was well acquainted with the late Nathaniel Tompkins of this town, deceased, whose widow Sarah Tompkins is now an applicant for a pension.
In the summer of the year 1781, the year the French Troops marched away from Newport, I was with the said Nathaniel one month, at Newport, Capt. Benjamin Coe commanded the Company, and we were quartered on Brentons Neck below Newport, in a house that had been occupied by the French troops. I do not remember who commanded the troops higher than the captain of the company — after our times were out we were discharged, and we returned home — I know that sd. Nathaniel served at that time one month —
William Grinnell
State of Rhode Island } County of Newport } S.S.
Personally appeared before me at Little Compton in the County of Newport this twenty first day of June A. 1837. The above named William Grinnell and subscribed and was duly sworn to the foregoing deposition according to law. I further certify that the said William Grinnell is to me personally known and is a credible witness
P. H. Little Just. of the Peace

State of Rhode Island &c. } County of Newport } ss.
Clerk's office of the Court of Probate, a Court of Record, of Little Compton in s d County of Newport
I hereby certify that Philip G. Little whose signature is affixed is his own proper hand writing to the foregoing Deposition of William Grinnell ~ was at the time of taking said deposition a Justice of the Peace, within and for s d County of Newport, duly commissioned under the seal of s d State, and engaged thereon according to law ~ And that said Philip G. Little is duly Authorized to take depositions by the laws of said State ~
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of s d office on this twenty first day of June A.D. 1837.
A. W. BRITTAIN Probate Clerk.

I John Springer of Little Compton in the County of Newport and state of Rhode Island, a Revolutionary soldier of lawful age, being sworn according to law, depose - That I was ever acquainted from my youth with, with the late Nathaniel Bompkins of this town up to his death. In the year 1775, when Wallau was in the Bay, and threatened the destruction of Newport. The Militia were ordered on to Rhode Island to protect the town. and a company went on from this town under Capt. George Simmons. I was in sd. Company and the said Nathaniel at that time - I think it was in the months of September and October in 1775. The said Nathaniel was in the public service at that time, for a period of at least six weeks -
John his Springer mark.
State of Rhode Island } County of Newport } ss.
Personally appeared before me at Little Compton in the County of Newport this twenty first day of June A. D. 1837. The above named John Springer and subscribed and was duly sworn to the foregoing deposition according to law. I further certify that the said John is to me well known and is a credible witness.
P. H. Little Just of the Peace

State of Rhode Island ss. County of Newport } ss.
Clerk's office of the Court of Probate; a Court of Record, of Little Compton in s d County of Newport—
I hereby certify that Philip G. Little whose signature is affixed is his own proper hand writing to the foregoing Deposition of John Springer—was at the time of taking said deposition, a Justice of the Peace, within and for s d County of Newport —st, duly commissioned under the seal of s d State, and engaged thereon according to Law—And that said Philip G. Little is duly Authorized to take depositions by the Laws of said State.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of s d office on this twenty first day of June A D . 1837.
A. H. Brown Probate Clerk.

I George Brown of Little Compton in the County of Newport and State of Rhode Island, a revolutionary soldier, of lawful age being duly sworn, on my corporal oath declare - That I was always acquainted with the late Nathaniel Tompkins of this town dec d , whose widow Sarah Tompkins also of this town, is an applicant for a pension - During the revolutionary war, we belonged to the same Militia company in this town, viz. the 2 d or North Company, then under the command of Capt. George Simmons - In the fall of the year 1776, I think in October, I enlisted for three months in Capt. Wilder's company in Col. Cook's Regiment, and said Nathaniel enlisted in the same company about the same time for three months - we were marched to Newport, and there stationed, until the Enemy came there in December 1776 - we then retreated off the Island, at Howland's Ferry, and were quartered near S d Ferry until our times were out, when we were, then discharged - I remember S d Nathaniel well, and that he served out his time of three months - We then returned home to this town, and went into the militia guard service, on the shores, in our own, the said Company of Militia to which we belonged. All of our S d Company of Militia were in the service, on the shores of the town, until the spring of the year 1777, and until the Month of April, as near as I can remember - when the company was divided into two classes - and one class served a month and then was relieved by the other class for one month, and so on, until the enemy left Rhode Island in the month of November 1779 - during all of this time the said Nathaniel was in the said guard service much of the time - a part of the time I think he served as a substitute, but I do not now remember for whom - during this time I have been with him on the west shore, many times for a month at a time - from my best recollections and belief, I state that said Nathaniel served in said company of militia, on the shores as aforesaid, under our company officers, from the time we were discharged from Capt. Wilder's company (which I believe was in December 1776) to April 1777 as many as four months - in the same company of Militia, in the manner aforesaid, from April 1777 to December 1777 four months - in the same company of Militia, in the manner aforesaid, from December 1777 to November 1778 six months - in the same company of Militia, in the manner aforesaid, from November 1778 to November 1779 as many as six months - we were under Capt. Simmons, and S d Davis and Pease officers of said company at that time -
I further testify that after the Enemy left Rhode Island, and the French troops were there, I believe in the summer or autumn of 1780 - I was drafted and went to Newport for one month, we were quartered at the house of Dea d Brenton, on the Neck - and just before my time was out, the S d Nathaniel came on, and I left him there in the service, I do not know how long he staid. I do not remember the names of the officers there - The S d Nathaniel I better remember, than almost any of my fellow soldiers at that time, he was a very strong man, and liable to get into personal conflicts with the soldiers -
State of Rhode Island County of Newport 3. S. S.
George Brown
Personally appeared before me at Little Compton in the County of Newport this nineteenth day of June 18 th the above named George Brown and subscribed and was duly sworn to the foregoing deposition according to law.
I do further certify that the said George is to me personally known, and is a credible witness.
Philip H. Little Justice of the Peace

State of Rhode-Island &c, } County of Newport } ss.
Clerk's Office of the Court of Probate, a Court of Records, of Little Compton in s d County of Newport.
I hereby certify that Philip F. Little whose Signature is affixed is his own proper hand writing to the foregoing Deposition of George Brown, was at the time of taking said Deposition, a Justice of the Peace, within and for s d County of Newport, duly commissioned under the seal of s d State, and engaged thereon according to Law. And that said Philip F. Little is duly Authorized to take depositions by the Laws of said State.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of s d office on this Nineteenth day of June 1837.
A. H. Brown Probate Clerk.

I William Woodman of Little Compton in the county of Newport and State of Rhode Island a soldier of the revolution of lawfull age being duly sworn on my Oath declare that I was always acquainted with the late Nathaniel Tompkins of this Town. during the revolution war we belonged to the same company of Militia under the command of Capt Gen. Simmons. I remember well of his enlisting into three months Service under Capt Wildes. (Col. Cooks regiment.)
After his discharge he came immediately into the Militia when I belonged when all of our said company was called out on guard duty until some time I believe in April 1777 when we were divided into two classes. One class serving one month and then the other and so on alternately until the British left Rhode Island in Nov. 1779. He belonged with the same class with me and was always ready to perform his duty, and I think probable he acted as substitute for others when his duty did not require him for self. He being a very resolute man. From the time he left Capt Wildes co in Dec. 1776. He at least served as much as four months in our P. Company up to April 1777. from this time up to Dec. 1777 as much if not more than four months. and from Dec 1777 to November 1778 as many as six months. and from Nov. 1778 to Nov. 1779 six months, during all of the time aforesaid said Nathaniel was in the guard service from the time he left Capt. Wildes company.
I remember well of his going to Rhode Island after the British had gone. and have often heard him relate many of the circumstances attending that tour.
William Woodman
State of Rhode Island County of Newport 3 S.S.
Personally appeared before me at Little Compton in the County of Newport this nineteenth day of June A. 1837. The above named William Woodman and subscribed and was duly sworn to the foregoing deposition according to law. I do further certify that the said William is to me well known, and is a credible witness
P. H. Little Just. of the Peace

State of Rhode Island &c. } S.S. County of Newport
Clerk's office of the Court of Probate, a Court of Record, of Little Compton in s d County of Newport—
I hereby certify that Philip G. Little whose signature is affixed, is his own proper hand writing to the foregoing Deposition of William Woodman — was at the time of taking said deposition a Justice of the Peace, within and for s d County of Newport, duly commissioned, under the seal of s d State, and engaged therein according to law — And that said Philip G. Little is duly Authorized to take depositions by the Laws of said State. —
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of s d office on this Nineteenth day of June A.D. 1837.
A. H. Brown Probate Clerk.

Newport Vt.
Clerks Office Court of Common Pleas Newport 23 rd December AD 1837
George C Shaw Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in the aforesaid County being a Court of Record do hereby certify that Philip F t Little before whom the Deposition of A K Brownell was sworn to, is a Justice of the Peace in said County was elected by the General Assembly and commissioned by the Governor of this State and is fully qualified to act in his said capacity; and his signature attached thereto is genuine.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of said Court, at Newport on the day and year aforesaid
Gro. C Shaw. Clk
[Handwritten flourish]

Town Clerk's office Little Compton December 11 th 1837.
I hereby certify that Sarah Tumpkin, Widow of Nathaniel Tumpkin, died at Little Compton July 18 th 1837. Aged eighty one years. as appears of record.
Witness A. H. Brownell Town Clerk.
I A. H. Brownell, Town Clerk of Little Compton, of lawful age, being duly sworn, on my oath declare - That the above transcript from the records of my office are just and true.
A. H. Brownell Town Clerk.
State of Rhode Island } County of Newport } S.S.
Personally appeared before me at Little Compton on this Eleventh day of December A.D. 1837. A. H. Brownell Town Clerk of Little Compton to me personally known, and was solemnly sworn to the foregoing transcript from the record of said town according to law. P. H. Little Just. Peace

At a Court of Probate held within and for the Town of Little Compton on the second day of June A D 1834. I Alexander R. Brownell Clerk of the Court aforesaid in the Town of Little Compton in the County of Newport do hereby certify that Satisfactory evidence is adduced to this Court that Nathaniel Tompkins late of Little Compton was a claimant for a Pension of the United States in the State of Rhode-Island under the Act of June, 1832 that he died at Little Compton on the sixteenth of March 1833 not having a certificate. — and that Mrs Sarah Tompkins is the Widow of the said Nathaniel Tompkins and now resides in Little Compton aforesaid and still remains his Widow. —
GIVEN under my hand and the Seal of the said Court this
Second day of June A D 1834.
A. R. BROWNELL Probate Clerk. —

Little Compton May 20 th
Free
Dutcher J. Pierce Esq. Washington City

Little Compton May 16. 1832
Sister J. Pierce Esq.
Dear Sir,
I am requested by the widow of an Applicant for a pension to solicit your aid in favour her claim The Applicant Nathl. Tompkins a Soldier in the Revolution forwarded his papers about 2 years ago, about 1 year ago they were returned for want of precision as to the time, owing to the death of said Applicant the papers were again sent to Washington with a fair prospect as I was informed of success - since then I cannot find that any attention has been paid to the business - by Mr. Robins or A. H. Brownell who attended to the business for said Applicant I believe they forwarded to the War Office the time of the Applicant's death & name of the widow - wish you would be so good as to call at the Office & do what you can in her favour - there is no doubt had he lived he would have obtained a full pension as it is a thing of public notoriety here that he was a good Soldier & served nearly all the war.
Yours Respectfully
N. Tompkins (Died March 16 th 1832) Nathl. Tompkins Sarah Tompkins is the name of his widow - should you succeed, forward the Certificate to me N. J.

2.
J. J. Edwards, Esq.
Connyss House, Pukawa
Waihi
N.Z.
Hon. J. J. Pearce

Washington May 27 th 1834
Dear Sir
Please to attend to the inquiries contained in the enclosed letter, and write me the result of your investigation very respectfully yours Drew J. Pease
J. B. Edmonds Esq. Commissioner of Pensions