Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 15698, for Joseph Peirce, Massachusetts

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass
or Pierce Joseph Pierce,
W 15698
Eleanor
CONTENTS

Massachusetts Joseph Pierce
of Leicester in the State of Mass who was a Lieut in the Company commanded by Captain Gates of the Regiment commanded by Colonel Bigelow in the Mass line, for the term of 3 1/2 years from May 1777 to 17
Inscribed on the Roll of Mass at the rate of 254 3/100 Dollars per month  annum , to commence on the 1st day of Mar 1832 and
Certificate of Pension issued the 23rd of Augt 1832 and sent to George Holpor Leicester Massachusetts
the Roll on _____ day of 182 _____ and notification sent to at _____ Pension commencing on the of _____ 182
Amount due on 4th of } Mar 1832 $ 254.31- semi annual due } 4 Sept " " $ 127.15 1/2 $ 381.46 1/2
{ Revolutionary Claim, Acts March 18, 1818, May 1, 1820. }
June 1832
Recorded Book 2 Vol 2 Page 75

Hon S.H. Walley
Heby 57855
Arad Joy, June 12 1855
Albany 3148
Eleanor Peirce
widow of Joseph Peirce
who was a pensioner under the Act of 7 June 1832 and who died on the 14. March 1835 of Chenango Co in the State of N York
who was a S er g. Lieut. V ol in the company commanded by Captain Gates of the reg t . commanded by Col. Bigelow in the Mass. line for S er g t . 3 months Ensign 16 " Lieut. 5 "
Inscribed on the Roll of Albany at the rate of 241 Dollars 66 Cents per annu m to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Rate of Pension issued the 8. day of June 1839 and sent to Bony. Davis Smithville, N.Y.
  to the 4th of March '39  724.98    annual allowance ending 1 st Sep r "  120.83     $845.81  
{ Act July 7, } 1838.
Issued by D. Brown Vol. 2
A.T. ✓ 1838

DECLARATION, in order to secure the benefit of the Act of Congress, passed June 7, 1832.
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
COUNTY OF WORCESTER, ss.
ON this seventh day of August , in the year of our Lord, eighteen hundred and thirty two personally appeared in open Court, before Hon. Nathl Maine, Judge of the Court of Probate , now sitting, Joseph Peirce, Esquire , a resident of Athol , in the County of Worcester , and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, 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 the act of Congress, passed June 7th 1832.
THAT he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated.
That he, the above named Joseph Peirce , being then resident in the town of Worcester , County of Worcester Commonwealth aforesaid, in the year seventeen hundred & seventy five, enlisted in the Company commanded by Capt. Timothy Prigelow , of Col o . Jonathan Ward's Regiment , in the Massachusetts Line , Army of the Revolution , in which company he served eight months, in the capacity of musician. Soon after the expiration of his first enlistment, he again entered the service in the Company com- manded by Capt. Jos. Washburn , Regiment of Col o  Whitney , in the Line aforesaid, & served three months as musician. In the fall of seventeen hundred & seventy six, he served in the same capac- ity for two months in Capt. Lovell's Company , Col o  Denny's Regiment . Early in the next succeeding year, he enlisted at Worcester in the company under the command of Capt. William Gates , in the fifteenth Massachusetts Regiment , for three years, (commenc- ing March nineteenth, seventeen hundred & seventy seven,) and remained in the service until December thirty first, seven- teen hundred & eighty, being a term of three years, nine months and twelve days, during which period he served in the sev- eral capacities (at different times) of Orderly Sergeant, Quarter Master, Adjutant , Ensign, & Lieutenant; and that at the time of his discharge he was a regularly commissioned Lieutenant.
That he made application for a Pension under the act of March eighteenth, eighteen hundred & eighteen, & was accordingly placed on the roll, as it appears by the Certificate of the Sec- retary of War, in the year aforesaid; from which he was af- terwards stricken by reason of a new construction given to that Act of Congress. That he made an unsuccessful application for the benefit of the Act passed fifteenth of May, eighteen hundred & twenty eight. That at the time of his former ap- plications, as well as the present , he resided in the town of Athol aforesaid, where he continues to be a resident.
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 aforesaid.
Before NATHL Maine Judge of Probate for the County of Worcester Joseph Peirce

We the undersigned a Clergyman residing in the residing in  and hereby certify that we are well acquainted with to the above declaration, that we believe him to be who has subscribed and sworn years of age, that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a soldier of the revolution, and we concur in that opinion. Sworn and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
And the said court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above mentioned applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states. And the court further certifies, that it appears to them that who signed the proceeding certificate, is a clergyman, resident in the and that who has also signed the same is a resident in the and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
Nathl. James I. Prindle for the County of Worcester
I Theophilus Wheeler  Register Clerk of the Court of Probate for Worcester Co. do hereby certify the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court of Probate in the matter of the application of Joseph Pierce for a pension.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this Seventh day of August in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and thirty two .
Theophilus Wheeler Register of Probate for the County of Worcester in Massachusetts

3148
V 2457
Eleanor Pierce
Declaration Presented No. 2457
No 10 Oct. 82
4 and 14 March 1833
Eleanor Pierce Joseph Pierce
 Admitted  2 M c . Sergeant 8 mo  Lieut. en ant 8 "  Ensign 16 "  24 
Benjamin Davis Esq. Smithville N.Y.

Declaration
In Order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7 th July 1838 entitled "An Act granting half pay and pensions to certain Widows".
State of New York County of Chemango ss. On this eight th day of March One thousand eight hundred and thirty Nine personally appeared before Robert Glonell, Circuit Judge of the Fifth Circuit of the State of New York, Eleanor Pierce, a resident of Smithville in the County of Chemango aged Seventy Six years on the fourteenth day of April One thousand eight hundred and thirty eight, who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her Oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provisions made by the Act of Congress passed July 7. 1838, entitled "An Act granting half pay and pensions to certain Widows". That she is the Widow of Joseph Pierce late of Athel, County of Worcester, State of Massachusetts who was a Revolutionary Pensioner and drew pay as such. That the said Joseph Pierce, drew pay as an Officer and this deponent believes as a Lieutenant. She refers to the Service of her husband and the pay he drew to the papers or file in the Pension Office of the War Department, Under the law of 18 th March 1818. and afterwards Under the law of 1832. Reference to his papers or file will show.
She further declares, that she was Married to the said Joseph Pierce, on the tenth day of October 1782: that her husband the aforesaid Joseph Pierce died on the fourteenth day of March 1835 that she was not Married to him prior to his leaving the Service, but the Marriage took place previous to the first of January 1794 at the time
Subscribed the day before Robt. Glonell Circuit Judge
Eleanor Pierce

I Certify that the within Mand Chas Pierce by reason of bodily infirmity is unable to appear in Court Robt. Moxley Circuit Judge
Chicargo County ss On this 8 th day of March 1839. personally appeared before me Benjamin Davis and James Young of Smithville in Peoria County who being duly sworn do on their Oaths declare that they were well acquainted with Joseph Pierce in his life time who died March 14. 1835 and are well acquainted with Chas Pierce his Widow; that she is the same person who has subscribed this declaration unto Arrested, and that the said Chas Pierce has remained the Widow of the said Joseph Pierce from the time of his decease up to the present since Married to any other person
Sworn to & subscribed before me this day 8 th year above Robt. Moxley Circuit Judge
Benjamin Davis James Young
I Certify that the above Mand Chas Pierce Davis and James Young are Credible Witnesses Robt. Moxley Circuit Judge

STATE OF NEW-YORK, } ss.
COUNTY OF CHENANGO,
I, Peter Randal Clerk of the County of Chenango, do hereby certify, that Robert Mowatt Esq. whose name is subscribed to the Certificate of the proof or acknowledgement of the annexed instrument, and thereon written, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgement, a Quist. Judge , in and for the county aforesaid, dwelling in said county, commissioned and sworn, and duly authorized to take the same. AND FURTHER, that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of such Judge and verily believe Certificate of proof or acknowledgement is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said county, the tenth day of March 183 9
P. Randal CLERK.

Certificates from Town & County Clerks.
Benjamin Chin.

Joseph Pierce and Eleanor Crawford, both of Shrewsbury (Mass.) were married October tenth, Seventeen Hundred and Eighty two (Oct. 10. 1782)
The above is a true Copy of the Record with the exception of the date, which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures as follows Oct. 10. 1782, and also the word (Mass.) which is not on the Record
Joab Hapgood Town Clerk, State of Massachusetts } of Shrewsbury County of Worcester }
I, Joab Hapgood above named depose and say, that I hold the Office of Town Clerk in the Town of Shrewsbury, County and State aforesaid, and that the above is a true extract from the records of said Town with the exception above named as certified by me
Joab Hapgood, Clerk of the Town of Shrewsbury
Worcester ss.
Shrewsbury April 5. 1839. Then the the above named Joab Hapgood made solemn oath that the above Deposition by him subscribed is true.
Before me Henry Snow Justice of the Peace

Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Worcester, ss.
I, Joseph G. Kendall, clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, for said County of Worcester, do certify, that Henry Snow, Esquire, is a justice of the peace in and for said County, and that his signature to the certificate on the preceding page is in his own proper hand writing.
In testimony whereof, I hereunto set my name, and affix the seal of said Court, at Worcester, this fifth day of April, in the year 1839.
Jos. G. Kendall, Clerk.

Shrewsbury April 5. 1839
Benj. Davis Esq.
Dr. Sir - Yours of 29. March came to hand by last evening mail - I herewith send you a copy of the record in the form of your copy no. 2. except the word October - which stands on the record abbreviated as in my copy - I do not see that it can be disputed that it means the same as if written in full.
I am sorry to cause you the trouble of going over this again - I asked the opinion of the Snow about the first copy which I sent and he stated that it was sufficient.
It was new to me, having held the Office but a few days - I am now going immediately to Worcester to get the Certificate of the Clerk of the Court - after which I shall mail it at Worcester.
You may send me if you please the same as before
Very Respectfully
Yours & S r David Hape
P.S. The word Ships enclosed in a parenthesis in my copy is not in the original record. This is all I can do for you & if you cannot procure the pension you need not send any money.
Yrs I. H.

Joseph Parris 2 a Mol Mar 5 1878
June '18
W. H. C. C. H. T. Nat Cattle
Report of the Joint Com.
卷之

Schedule of the Estate of Joseph Pease, 2 d of Ashland in the County of Worcester, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Applicant for a pension under the Act of Congress of May 1. 1820.
   54 acres of Land $1000.00 4 Tables $1611.13   Buildings standing on land owned by another man 400.00 12 chairs 7.00   1 Cart 5.00 1 Sette 6.00   1 Chaise Marnep 25.00 2 Fin Shovel and tongs 2.50   2 Ploughs 4.00 2 Truts 2.75   2 Chairs 1.25 1 Priest .75   Half of a Harrow 1.50 3 Looking Glasses .25   1 two-horse Sleigh 2.50 1 Chest of Drawers 3.50   1 Horse-collar and chains 1.00 Crockery and glass ware 2.00   1 Bridle .50 2 candlesticks 10.00   2 scythes and snaths 1.50 3 sets Knives and forks .75   1 Iron Bar 2.00 Books 2.50   10 Cedar Barrels 2.25 Iron Hollow Ware 3.00   11 Rakes .25 Half of a Grindstone 4.00   3 Hay Forks .50 1 old Brass Kettle 1.00   1 Hay Knife .30 1 pair Flat Irons .50   1 Yoke .50 1 set Andirons 1.00   2 Meat Truts .75 $1657.63   1 Horse 60.00   3 Cows 48.00   1 Two-year old Steer 10.00   3 Yearlings 19.00   2 Hogs .33   2 Calves 4.00   2 Swine 12.00   1 Duck 9.00   Amt. cash due 1611.13.  
My own age as mentioned in the declaration is 63; my occupation that of a farmer; my health, for one of my age may, in its general state, be considered good; but by reason of a Rheumatic complaint, am unable to walk but very little; of course am incapacitated for labour.
My wife Eleanor, is 58 years old. She has long been in a feeble state of health, and is utterly unable to attend to the business of the family; and I have no reason to suppose that her health will ever be any better restored. My daughter Eleanor is twenty three years old - unmarried. She is a girl of a slender constitution. I have two grand-children - Joseph Myrick, and Thomas Eaton Myrick whom I am bound to support by the laws of this Commonwealth. The eldest 15 - the younger 13 years old. Like other lads of their age, they can labour, and thereby earn, at present a part of their support. The Honorable, the Secretary at War will have the goodness to consider that I served in the cause of my country's freedom, nearly five years, as will appear by my original declaration. I reserved in my own hands the securities of

Government, for the payment of my services, until their nominal amount was about $1800- in hope we long to realize the property. But being obliged to lose my land, or part with my securities, I was under the necessity of disposing of them at a sacrifice of 7 1/8 th or to use the language of that day, I sold them for 2/6 d on the pound.
I never rec d the commutation, as thousands of other officers did.
Joseph Penu. 2 nd .

To whom it may concern.
This may certify that Mrs. Eleanor Pierce, (wife of S r Joseph Pierce), has, for a number of years been afflicted with a sore and painful affection of her left side, together with a debility of the stomach, which has hitherto baffled the skill of Physicians, and has, to such a degree debilitated her constitution, that labour would be highly detrimental; and in all human probability her health will never be restored to its former state.
The Subscriber has for some time past, been attending to upon Mrs. Pierce, and deems the above statement, due her and the family, as it may in justice be taken into consideration in forming a just conclusion with respect to the family of S r Joseph Pierce.
Athol, Worcester County } July 8. 1820.
W m H. Williams,
Physician & Surgeon.
Copy Attest.
Joseph Pierce, Jr.
Sworn to and declared, on the tenth day of July , 1820. before the said Court.
Attest, Abijah Bigelow Clerk.
I, ABIJAH BIGELOW, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Common Pleas, holden within and for the County of Worcester, do hereby certify, that the foregoing Oath, and the Schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the Record of the said Court; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule, is one thousand six hundred fifty nine dollars and sixty three cents.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court, on this tenth day of July 1820.
Abijah Bigelow Clerk of the Court for the County of Worcester.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
COUNTY OF WORCESTER, ss.
ON this tenth day of July 1820, personally appeared in open Court, before the Circuit Court of Common Pleas, being a Court of Record, within and for said County of Worcester, established as such by the laws of said Commonwealth, Joseph Peira 2 d aged sixty three years, resident in Athol, in said County, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth, on his oath, declare that he served in the Revolutionary War as follows: In the Company commanded by Capt. William Gates, (until transferred to other companies in the same Regiment,) in the 15 th Regiment in the Mass. Line, commanded by Col. Timothy Bigelow, agreeable to a declaration by me subscribed dated on the 15 th day of April 1818; and that I have rec d a pension certificate numbered 1518;
and I do solemnly swear, that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner, disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it, as to bring myself within the provisions of an Act of Congress, entitled "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States, in the Revolutionary War," passed on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts, due to me, nor have I any income, other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed, and by me subscribed.
Joseph Peira, 2 d
Sworn to and declared, on the tenth day of July, 1820. before the said Court.
Attest, Abijah Bigelow Clerk.
I, ABIJAH BIGELOW, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Common Pleas, holden within and for the County of Worcester, do hereby certify, that the foregoing Oath, and the Schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the Record of the said Court; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule, is one thousand six hundred fifty nine dollars and sixty three cents.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court, on this tenth day of July 1820.
Abijah Bigelow Clerk of the Court for the County of Worcester.

Timothy Bigelow, Esquire, Commandant of the            Battalion in the Army of the UNITED STATES of AMERICA :
To Joseph Pierce, Greeting.
REPOSING especial Trust and Confidence in your Patriotism, Valour, Conduct and Fidelity, DO, by Virtue of the Powers vested in me, Constitute and Appoint you to be 2 d Master-Sergeant of the Regiment under my Command. YOU are, therefore, carefully and diligently to discharge the Duty of 2 d Master-Sergeant , by doing and performing all Manner of Things thereunto belonging. And I do strictly charge and require all under your Command to be obedient to your Orders, as their 2 d Master-Sergeant . And you are to observe and follow such Orders and Directions, from Time to Time, as you shall receive from me, or any other your superior Officer, according to the Rules and Discipline of War. And this is your sufficient Warrant.
G I V E N under my Hand the fourth Day of May , 1778.
Tim s . Bigelow Col.

Lieutenant Pierce is hereby at his own request discharged from the service of the United States.
By His Excellency's Command
French T. Kilbrary A. D. C.
Head Quarters New Windsor
31 st Decem. 1860

Lieut. Parrie
Joseph Pierce of Pierce Mass W. 1865

State of Mass Bay To Joseph Pierce, Genl. Greeting.
Reposing special trust & confidence in your Ability, Courage & good Conduct do by these presents constitute & appoint you the said Joseph Pierce to be Lieutenant in the Fifteenth Regiment of Foot, one of the Fifteen Battalions raised by this State to serve in the Continental Army, whereof Timothy Bigelow Esq. is Colonel.
You are therefore carefully & diligently to discharge the duty of Lieutenant in the said Regiment in all things appertaining thereto observing such Orders & Instructions as you shall receive from the Colonel of said Regiment or any other Your Superior Officer for which this shall be your sufficient Warrant till you shall receive a Commission in manner & form pointed out by the Resolves of Congress of March the 8 th and June 28 th 1779.
Dated at Boston this thirteenth day of July A.D. 1780 And in the Fifth year of the Independence of the United States of America
By order of the Council John Avery Dlt
James Bowdoin President

Jos. Purn. athol

State of Massachusetts County of Worcester
I Joseph Pierce
a Citizen of the United States, now resident at Athol in the County of Worcester in the State aforesaid, do on oath testify and declare, that in the War of the Revolution, in the year A D 1775
I entered and was engaged in the land service of the United States on the continental establishment, and served accordingly from that time to the 31. Dec 1780
Sergeant Ensign & Lieutenant as a musician, Quarter master Sergeant against the common enemy, without any interruption or absence: Except part of the year 1776 that I belonged to Capt. Timothy Biglow's company in Col. Jonathan Ward's regiment in the Massachusetts line for eight months - Soon after I belonged to a company commanded by Capt. Denny Hubbard Marshburn for three months in Col. Whitney's regiment in the line aforesaid - In the fall of the year 1776 I belonged to Capt. Lovell's company in Col. Denny's regiment for two months - the above terms of enlistment I was a fife - Early in 1777 I belonged to Capt. William Gates company as orderly sergeant in the 15 Massachusetts regiment with which I had enlisted for the year term of 3 years - was appointed in 1778 Quarter master Sergeant & did duty in that capacity until having been appointed an ensign at the same time until sometime in 1780 when I and that I left the service on was appointed a Lieutenant in Col. Biglow's regiment at the 15 Massachusetts when I did duty until the 31 of December 1780 when I was discharged
and that, by reason of my reduced circumstances in life and poverty, I stand in need of assistance from my country for support, being now of the age of 61 years - & I further declare that about March A D 1779 I was appointed an ensign as above mentioned & did duty as such and as a Lieutenant until I was discharged in 1780 as above -
And I hereby relinquish all claims to every pension heretofore allowed me by the laws of the United States, if any may be or hath been so allowed.
Joseph Pierce
BE IT REMEMBERED, That on this 15 th day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and Eighteen pursuant to a law of the United States, entitled, "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary War," made and passed on the 18th of March, A. D. 1818, personally appeareth before me,
Isaac Parker Ch Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts -
the abovenamed Joseph Pierce and after due examination and caution to testify and declare the whole truth, he maketh oath to the declaration aforesaid, and subscribes the same in my presence; and, on examination duly made by me the said Judge, it appeareth to my satisfaction that the said declaration is true,
In witness whereof my hand & the seal of said Court the day & year above -
Isaac Parker C.J.P.C.

FREE
Post Master
Smithville
Jeff. Co.

Richtand P.O. March 21, 1839
Post Master Smithville
Sir — Among the letters found in tearing down a stable in this place at the recent fire there was a part of a package that appears to have been composed of papers either to or from the Pension Office — The name of Benj. Pierce of Smithville appears upon the papers. They appear to have reference to an application of the Widow of Joseph Pierce. Among them is an Aff. & certificate of a town Clerk as to the marriage of said Applicant & a Clk's Certificate attached, these are nearly entire, having been burned but little. The remaining papers having been nearly consumed by the fire before it was extinguished — The Stable being partially on fire before it was torn down.
If the papers were going to Smithville from the Pension Agent I conclude that they will not again be wanted. As they may be of use on the trial of Moody French, now in confinement for robbing the mail, I will not forward them to your office, unless you or Mr. Pierce should write to me that the Certificate as to the Marriage, would be of use, as this is the only part of the papers that remains so as to be read.
Among all the letters found, which amt. to more than 40 and which appear to have been taken at three different times, there are none mailed later than Dec. 29 th or before Nov. 29, 1838,
Should you know of any letters having been lost from the Mail in Dec. last, or before or since, containing money, please inform me. We have as yet no reason to suspect any other person than French.
Yours respectfully
Hiram Hubbell P.M.

I Timothy Bigelow of Medford in the County of Middlesex & Commonwealth of Massachusetts do testify that I am well acquainted with Joseph Pierce of Athol in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth aforesaid - That I knew him as a serjeant in the fifteenth Massachusetts regiment in the division of the Revolutionary army com- manded by General Sullivan first & afterwards by General Gates stationed at Pro- vidence in the forepart of the year 1779 - That in the month of March in said year I well remember that it was announced that several several serjeants had been promoted to the rank of Ensign as among whom was said Joseph Pierce. I well remember said Pierce with two or three others of the recently promoted Ensigns apply to Shinehas Bowman the paymaster of said regiment for an order on the Commissary for their boots & other articles to which they were entitled by their promotion - And I well remember said Pierce serving as an Ensign in said regiment like any other officer of that rank from that time till July following when the division left Providence. I add that the circumstances above detailed are the more distinctly impressed on my mind on account of the handsome & officer like appearance which said Pierce uniformly exhibited Timothy Bigelow
Worcester ss. Apr. 15. 1810 Personally appeared Timothy Bigelow & made solemn oath to the truth of the foregoing declaration by him subscribed Isaac Parker C.S.C.

W Jennings. for J Pierce 1583 Rec d 22 May 1829 2879.

Worcester, Mass ts May 18. 1829.
Sir -
In conformity with your suggestions relative to the application of Joseph Peirce, for a pension, as a Revolutionary Officer, I have communicated with him on the subject, and received the Depositions of two of his Brethren in the national service, which are herewith forwarded to you. -
Hoping, as Mr. Peirce does, that the evidence now furnished, may prove satisfactory to you, and such as will give him the support contemplated by the Act of Congress under which he makes his claim, he is desirous that you will give as early an examination of his case, as your convenience will allow, and make the result known to. -
Sir, your obedient, hum l . servant,
William Jennison
The Hon ble Asbury Dickins, Acting Secretary of the U. S. Treasury, Washington.

Joel Pratt of Shelburne in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, testify and says, that Joseph Pierce of Shelburne in said County of Worcester, was a Sergeant in the Massachusetts Line 15 th Regiment, in Capt. Gates Company in the Regiment under Colo. Timothy Bigelow, that he in the Continental Army of the Revolution, that he entered upon the service some time in the fore part of the year, I think in the month of March, 1777. that I served in the same regiment with him at that time as an Ensign. — that he continued in said Regiment and was promoted to a Quarter Master Sergeant some time in January 1778. — to an Ensign some time in March 1779. — to a Lieutenant some time in the summer 1779. — and from March 1779, he was appointed Quarter Master, served in that capacity until he was discharged, which was in the latter part of the year 1780. when the said Regiment, to which we belonged, was reduced: — that said Pierce then left the service in consequence of the other regiments having Quarter Masters, and that if he, said Pierce, had continued in the service he would have been obliged to have yielded the office of Quarter Master; therefore he requested to be discharged, which was accordingly granted him. Joel Pratt.
Worcester ss. May 14 th 1829. Personally appeared the above named Joel Pratt, submitted and made oath to the truth of the above affidavit Before me.
Alex. Dustin Justice of the Peace

I Henry Marble of Westborough in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do Testify and say, that Joseph Pierce now of Shol in said County, was a Sergeant in the Company commanded by William Gates in the fifteenth Regiment, in the Service of the United States, commanded by Timothy Biglow Esquire - that the said Pierce entered the service some time in the four part of the Year 1777 - and the dep- -ants served as Sergeant Major in said Regiment at said time - and the said Pierce was promoted to Quartermaster Sergeant in January 1778 - and the said Pierce and the deponents were promoted to Ensigns in March 1779 and to Lieutenants June 28 th 1779 - Also had rec d a previous Appointment as Quartermaster to said Regiment and in which capacity he served until the latter part of Year 1780 - at which time said Regiment was reduced - and by that reason his pay as Quartermaster at the rate of twelve dollars per Month ceased - and for this reason he took his discharge and further the deponents oath not - dated at Westborough the 15 th day of May 1829.
Henry Marble.
Worcester 15 th May 1829
Then the above named Henry Marble personally appeared and made oath that the foregoing affidavit by him sub- scribed was true before me.
Nahum Harrington Jr. of the

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Worcester, ss.
I, Abijah Bigelow, clerk of the judicial courts within and for said county of Worcester, hereby certify that Alexander Dustin, and Nathan Harrington, Esquires, named in the papers annexed, are justices of the peace in and for said county, duly qualified and authorized to administer oaths and affirmations —
In testimony whereof the Seal of the court of Common Pleas for said county is hereto affixed, this sixteenth day of May, Anno Domini 1829. —
Abijah Bigelow, Clerk.
Ms. A. 9. 2. 10

Henry Marbles Affidavit
Revolutionary Claim -
Joseph Pierce, Worcester County, Massachusetts.

R.D 30 March 1829
Treasury Dept. 28. March, 1829.

The Hon. John H. Eaton, Secretary of War
Sir
I enclose, for your consideration, the application of Lieut Joseph Pierce 2d for the benefits provided under the recent U. S. laws, for officers of the Revolution.
Please to signify to me what disposition is made of the case, and thereby oblige - Sir, yours, most respectfully.
Worcester, Mass 23 March, 1829.
William Jennings

REVOLUTIONARY CLAIMS.
TREASURY DEPARTMENT.
10 April 1829.
Joseph Pierce 2 nd of Athol in the County of Worcester in the State of Massachusetts has applied to the Secretary of the Treasury for the benefits of the act, entitled "An Act for the relief of certain surviving officers and soldiers of the army of the Revolution," approved on the 15th of May, 1828. He states that he was as an officer on the Continental line, and served as such until the reduction of the army under the resolves of October 1780, at which period he was a Lieutenant in the _____ regiment of the Massachusetts line; and that he received commutation certificates for the five years full pay granted by the resolve of 22 March, 1783; and, further, that he has received as a pensioner since the 3d of March, 1826, _____ dollars, paid to him by the agent in the State of -
The Third Auditor is requested to report how far these several statements are corroborated by the records in his office.
By order of the Secretary. T. Dickins.
TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
THIRD AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
13. April 1829
It appears by the records in this office, that final settlement certificates have been issued for the commutation of five years full pay to _____ in the _____ line, amounting to _____ dollars.
It further appears that Joseph Pierce 2 nd is now on the pension list of the _____ agency, and has been since the 3 rd March 1826 at the rate of _____ per month.
The Revolutionary records in this office furnish no information whatever in relation to the services of Lieutenant Joseph Pierce 2 nd of the Massachusetts line -
John Hagner Aud

War Dept: Bounty land office 30 April 1829.
The records of this office do not show that Joseph Pierce as an officer of the Mass a line ever received or is intitled to bounty land of the United States.
Robert Taylor

Joseph Pierce or Peirce - 2 nd - Lieut. Mass. line -
Mass -
Dear Wm Garrison
Worcester
Mass
15598
(See wid., file # 15,698.)

papers more
Eleanor Pierce
June 7. Jan at NY.
FREE
Hon James S Edwards Commissioner on Pensions Washington D.C.

State of New York Chenango County }
Smithville June 3 rd 1839
Hon James L. Edwards.
Commissioner on Pensions.
Sir. Last November. I sent you papers for a pension for Eleanor Peirce, a widow of Joseph Peirce late of Athol. County of Worcester, State of Massachusetts, by your letter here enclosed it does appear her papers was returned to me on the 26 th of December - on their way to this place the Mail was robbed and her papers lost. Since then I have obtained other papers, for her a pension and forwarded them to you last April. Not hearing from you by this time makes me feel anxious to know if her papers have been received at your Office, and to know if she will receive a pension, if she does receive a pension when and where she will receive the money - and if there is any blanks to fill for her agent in drawing the money. you would forward such blanks and her papers to me at. Smithville
Chenango County N. Y.
I am respectfully Your
Att. St Benjamin Davis

Joseph Pierce 2d. Lieutenant
Worcester County, Massachusetts.

The Applicant in this case begs leave to refer to the evidence furnished under his former application, as to the particular service in which he was engaged - As he has not in his possession the documents necessary to enable him to state, precisely , what those services were. His pension certificate is numbered
(1518.)
W. Garrison

Revolutionary Claims.
Under the act, entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving Officers and Soldiers of the Army of the Revolution," approved 15th May, 1828.
TREASURY DEPARTMENT, 2 June 1829
The annexed paper, relating to the claim of Joseph Pierce under the abovementioned act, is respectfully referred to the Secretary of War, with a request that he will be pleased to cause me to be informed whether a commission, and, if so, what commission, was received at the War Department, from the claimant, on an application stated to have been heretofore made by him for a pension.
J. D. Lyman
The Hon. the SECRETARY OF WAR.
Letter War Department 4 June 1829.

I Artemas Dyer and Jonathan Hugg both of Holden in the County of Worcester in the State of Massachusetts Soldiers in the army of the Revolution do Testify and say That we were person ally acquainted with Joseph Paine 2 nd An Officer in the Army of the Revo- lution and That we personally knew him in the Revolutionary War in his Official capacity — Artemas Dyer Holden March 2. 1829 Jonathan Hugg State of Massachusetts - County of Worcester March 2. 1829 Personally appeared the above named Artemas Dyer and Jonathan Hugg and severally made oath That the above deposition by them subscribed is the truth — Samuel Daman Justice of Peace
Pleas for the county of Worcester, Clerk of the Court of Common - Massachusetts, do hereby certify, that - Samuel Daman, Esquire, before whom the foregoing affidavits were sworn, was, at the time, a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, and duly empowered to administer oaths.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the [L. S.] said Court, this fourth day of March, A.D. 1829.
Abijah Bigelow, Clk.
* Here insert, To the end of the war, or, (as the case may be,) to the time when the arrangement of the Army provided by the resolves of Congress of the 3d and 21st of October, 1780, was carried into effect; and that I was reduced under that arrangement.
† Here insert, The sum of dollars, paid to me by the agent for paying pensions in the State of If the claimant has not been a pensioner, this part of the declaration may be omitted.
‡ A Justice of the Peace, or other magistrate duly empowered to administer oaths, as the case may be.

Revolutionary Claims.
[ A. ]
Form of a Declaration to be made by the Officers.
For the purpose of obtaining the benefits of an act, entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving Officers and Soldiers of the Army of the Revolution," approved on the 15th of May, 1828, I, Joseph Pierce 2d.
of  Attleboro , in the county of Worcester , in the State of Massachusetts ,
do hereby declare that I was an officer in the Continental Line of the Army of the Revolution,
and served as such* to the time when the arrangement of the army provided by the resolves of Congress of the 3d and 21st of October, 1780, was carried into effect; and that I was reduced under that arrangement, and at my request was then discharged, as appears by my certificate now in the pension office at Washington, on my application at which period I was a Lieutenant in the fifteenth regiment of the Massachusetts line.
for a pension, which was granted, no. 1518.
And I also declare, that I afterwards received certificates (commonly called commutation certificates) for a sum equal to the amount of five years' full pay, which sum was offered by the resolve of Congress, of the 22d of March, 1786, instead of the half pay for life, to which I was entitled under the resolve of the 21st of October, 1780.
And I do further declare, that I have received of the United States as a pensioner since the 2d day of March, 1826,†
Witness my hand, this second day of March , in the year 1829 . Joseph Pierce 2d
Before me, ‡ Samuel Daman , a Justice of the peace in the county of Worcester , in the State of Massachusetts , personally appeared, this day, Artemas Dryden and Jonathan H. Ladd , of the said county, who did severally make oath that Joseph Pierce 2d , by whom the foregoing declaration was subscribed, is generally reputed and believed to have been an officer in the Army of the Revolution, in manner as therein stated.
Witness my hand, this second day of March , in the year 1829 . Samuel Daman Justice Peace
I, Abijah Bigelow , Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for the county of Worcester , in the State of Massachusetts , do hereby certify, that Samuel Daman Esquire , before whom the foregoing affidavits were sworn, was, at the time, a Justice of the peace, in and for said county, and duly empowered to administer oaths.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said Court, this fourth day of March, A.D. 1829 . Abijah Bigelow, Clk.
* Here insert, To the end of the war, or, (as the case may be,) to the time when the arrangement of the Army provided by the resolves of Congress of the 3d and 21st of October, 1780, was carried into effect; and that I was reduced under that arrangement. † Here insert, The sum of _____ dollars, paid to me by the agent for paying pensions in the State of _____. If the claimant has not been a pensioner, this part of the declaration may be omitted. ‡ A Justice of the Peace, or other magistrate duly empowered to administer oaths, as the case may be.

Rev. Cent. Soc. No. 2457 pm at up (27)
NY July '38.
Hon. S. S. Edwards, Commissioner of Pensions Washington
Q. 6.
207 B-10

State of New York Chenango County P. Smithville April 20. 1839 Hon. J. L. Edwards -
Sir. Inclosed are papers for a pension for Eleanor Pierce, (widow of Joseph Pierce late of Athol Mass) her former papers which you returned to me on the 24 th of Dec r . last last was lost by reason of the mail being robbed as you will see by two letters here enclosed one from the Post Master at Richland and the other from the P. M. at Smithville Jefferson Co.
I hope the papers are satisfactory to what is required by Law - and that Mrs. Pierce may receive her Certificate. If any thing further is required to obtain her pension so far as consultant with your business please to inform me -
You will direct to me Smithville Flats, Chenango County. N. Y.
I am respectfully Your Oble. Servt.
Benjamin Davis -

5 Mo 198
$254 : 31 per ann
Sister Mary Berglund
May-77
George Holm Concord
Me.
War Department, Pension Office, Washington, D.C.
John May 14 1892 Officer
3 3/4 2 1/2 1 3/4

Wormwood Mass. Aug. 7, 1832.
The subscriber being constituted Attorney by the within applicants for receiving their Certificates from the War Department, desires that those documents, or any matter in relation to the application, be addressed to him at this place.
George Folsom, Atty at Law.
To the Hon. War Department.

(Copy)
War Department Pension Office
Dec. 26. 1838
Sir,
The papers of M rs Eleanor Pierce, widow of Joseph Pierce, have been examined and are herewith returned. A certificate showing the record of the marriage of the claimant should be made, in conformity with the regulations of the Department, a printed copy of which is herewith endorsed. The claimant is also required to make her declaration in a Court of Record, unless prevented by bodily infirmity.
I am respectfully &c. (Signed) J. L. Edwards
Benjamin Davis, Esq. Smithville N. York
Dear Sir. As your letter mentioned that you had heard nothing from the Pension office I have obtained a copy of the above letter, dated when I received yours of 26. Dec, which I enclose for that you may see what remains to be done. Yours Truly J. G. Clark

Post Master Smithville Flats Chenango Co NY

Smithville Apr 8 1839
In Sir since your Enquiry after letter for Benj Davis at my office I Recd the enclosed letter and it may be mistake in the name being Burnt there is no letter in my office for the name of Benj Davis nor have not been any by Reading this letter it may account for it I know of no such man here as Benj Pierce
Yours Respectfully
M. H. Kim PM
I have neglected your letter it got mislaid when I Recd this I thought of your Enquiry after the man

War Department Pension Office April 11 th 1829
Sir,
The document which you sent to this Office in order to have your name restored to the pension list, has been examined. Your property, which is estimated at $666. 25 / 100 , is considered sufficient to disqualify you from receiving a pension under the act of May 1. 1820. The regulations of December 26, 1828, which allowed pensions to persons possessing property to the amount of $900 and upwards, have been suspended. Your pension certificate is herewith returned. The papers will remain on our files.
I am, respectfully Your H on . Servt James I. Edwards

Quincy N.Y. June 5th 1855
Sir
I inclose a power of attorney, & ask a copy of the alleged service of Joseph Pierce late a pensioner under law of 1832 of Mass; I also ask how much per annum the widow of said Pierce drew under law of 1838 probably of N.Y. may be of Mass, the power of attorney is in these cases
Most respectfully Your Obl Servt Abad Joy
Hon L P Waldo Cand.

W. Earl Cutting of Phillipston Athol P.O. Massachusetts

Eleanor Pierce pub. of N.Y. law 1836 wid of Joseph, - my power is on file from
Abad Joy

War Department Pension Office Feb. 19. 1839
Sir,
The papers of M rs Eleanor Pierce appear to have been transmitted to the agent Benjamin Davis, Esq. of Smithville on the 24 th of December last, with objections. On being returned to this Office they will forthwith be re-examined.
I have the honor to be
Very respectfully
Your Obdt. Servt.
J. L. Edwards
Hon. J. C. Clark House of Representatives

Adm d act 7 June 1832
Joseph Peirce 2 d .
2. Mr. Levy 3 mo
Ensign - 16 mo. 13 dy
Lieut 5 mo. 18 day
$254:31 per
ann
Recorded

Jos. Pierce, 2 d Payable on the 4 th March & 4 th Septm of each year, at the Mr. Banks, N.B. at Boston Mass.
Lient.
Recorded #

WAR DEPARTMENT.
Revolutionary Claims
I CERTIFY, That in conformity with the Law of the UNITED STATES,
of the 18 th March 1818. Joseph Pierce 2 a late a Lieutenant in the Army of the Revolution
is inscribed on the Pension List, Roll of the Massachusetts Agency, at the rate of Twenty dollars cents per month, to commence on the 15 th day of April one thousand eight hundred and eighteen
GIVEN at the WAR OFFICE of the UNITED STATES,
this Twentieth day of June — one thousand eight hundred and eighteen
J. C. Calhoun Sec y of war

STATE OF Massachusetts County of Worcester
{ ss. Seraphina Young — being duly sworn according to law, deposes and says that she is a child — of Widow Eleanor Pierce — deceased, to whom more a pension was probably due — —, that this deponent is directly interested
in said claim.
Sworn and subscribed before me this 10 th day May 1855 and (I do hereby certify that the said Seraphina Young is a respectable person, and that I have full faith in the truth of the above statement sworn to by her as being directly interested in said claim.)
Know all Men by these Presents, That I Seraphina Young a child — of Widow Eleanor Pierce — deceased, to whom more a pension was probably due, —
— do hereby constitute and appoint ARAD JOY, of Ovid, N. Y., my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name as one directly and personally interested in the claim or application for a pension
Witness my hand and seal, this 10 th day of May 1855
Sealed and delivered in the presence of
L. D. Whitcomb
Seraphina Young
STATE OF Massachusetts County of Worcester
{ Be it known that on the 10 day of May 1855
before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County and State, duly authorized by law to administer oaths and take acknowledgements, personally appeared Seraphina Young above named, and duly acknowledged the above power of attorney and affidavit to be her act and deed.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day and date above mentioned.
Reuben Whitcomb Jr. Justice of the Peace.

No. of Rep. Jan 31. 55,
Gen. M. Waldo Comm r of Pensions Dear Sir,
Mrs Eleanor Pierce deceased was the widow of Joseph Pierce formerly of Athol Mass an officer in the army of the revolution her daughter Mary Pierce is now living in Boston -
I am requested to ascertain whether anything & if so what is due to the heirs of Eleanor Pierce dec d .? Ys. truly S. H. Walley

Massachusetts
Joseph Pierce on roll out June 7 th 1832 at the rate of $254.31 to what time paid? V.L.
John Harry Epps
Said to have died 14, March 1833
15 th March 1835
JH

1828 papers to be filed with Ak on mid # 15.698

Francis Clancey Joseph
NY - Oct 1838
FREE
Hon L P Wala Com d of Land Washington DC

Eleanor Pierce
Joseph
NH - Oct 38
Waltham, MA
Wm M Waldo Comm r of Pensions Washington

N. York Eleanor Pierce let. to Ben. Davis May 1839
Act. July 1838

Map
Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 15698
Elleanor Pierce Widow of Joseph Pierce Lieut Ben War
Act July 7th  188
Index: Vol. 2 , Page 122
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Massachusetts Roll.
1,518
Joseph Peirce 2 d
Lieutenant
Massachusetts line - 1775. 3 years
In the army of the United States during the Revolutionary War.
Inscribed on the Roll of Massachusetts
at the rate of 20 Dollars per month, to commence on the 15 th of April 1818.
Certificate of Pension issued the 30 th of June 1818, and sent to the Hon. Isaac Parker, Worcester, Mass. -
Arrears to 4th of Sept. 1818.
4 months 20/30. $93.33
{ Revolutionary claim, } { Act 18th March, 1818 }
See letter June 14. 1829 to Hon. S. D. Sleeper Secy of the Treasury.
Discontinued
Whot, Worcester Co.
Worcester Mass