Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 19957, for Jotham Parker, Connecticut

SERVICE
Conn.
NUMBER _____
Parker, William Sarah
#19957
CONTENTS

6307
any York
Sarah Barker, Conn widow of Soham Barker who was a Wagon Cond. in the Rev. War.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of $80 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 26 day of Octo. 1844 sent to L. S. Chase, Present
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book "A" June 1844 Vol. 2 Page 8

£ 30
2 Cents
1843 44 5 1838 3 repts.
see let to Hon. A. M.
Purdy family 18. 1845.
let to Henry M. Mygatt
Nov. 12 1845
let to same Jan'y 17 '46
to same March 1850
H. H. Belous 1850 1850
J. S. C. Triplett 1850 1850
J. S. C. Triplett 1853
M. E. P. Niemi Feb 24/56
J. S. C. Triplett Nov 8/56
let same May 14/56
Dec 1856 Rapiat Dec 1856
Alpine 19/56
Dec 1856 Mar 25/53
Alpine May 13/56
E. B. Phelps July 20/57
let H. B. Mygatt June 2/57

189 2918 1
Sarah Parker
Marr'd 30 Dec. 1779 Husband died 19 July 188
m 79. d 15
(No 1)
Aug 26. '57

State of New York Chenango County
ss, Jotham Parker, being duly sworn, before Samuel McKoon a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Said County of Chenango, doth on his oath say, that he is 44 years of age, that he is the son of Jotham Parker and Sarah his wife, that Said Jotham Parker died at Coventry in Chenango County aforesaid, on the 19th day of July 1815, and that deponent was present at the time of his death, and that Said Sarah Parker has lived with deponent ever since his father's death, and that she has not since married.
Sworn to August 26. 1839
Jotham Parker
Before us, and I certify that Said Jotham Parker is a credible person
Samuel McKoon Judge of Chenango County Courts
1839 4/1 1798

State of New York Chautauqua County
ss. On this 26th day of August 1837 personally appeared before Samuel McKoon, a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of said County of Chautauqua, Sarah Parker a resident of Ceresco in the said County of Chautauqua and State of New York, aged 80 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 Jotham Parker who was a wagon master in the war of the Revolution. That before departure was married to him and she thinks in 1776 he enlisted in Norfolk in the State of Connecticut under Captain Titus Watson and was a brigade wagon master and served in General Washington's Regiment or Brigade from the time he enlisted most of the time until 1781. and deponent thinks he ranked as Captain, and as deponent believes he served in the capacity aforesaid, at least three years and she thinks most of the time from 1776 to 1781. that he was at the taking of Ticonderoga, and at the taking of Fort Montgomery.
She further declares that she was married to the said Jotham Parker on the 4th day of November a service of the peace 30th day of December 1779 at Norfolk in the State of Connecticut, where she lived

and she was published in the Presbyterian Church during the war by the Rev. Samuel  Samuel  Robins  Robins of Norfolk aforesaid, that her husband the aforesaid William Parker died at Coeymans in the State of New York on the 19th day of July 1815, and that she has remained a widow ever since that period, as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year Sarah Parker full of mind, and I certify that said Sarah Parker in consequence of bodily infirmity is unable to attend any Court of Record. Samuel M c Horn Judge of Chenango County Courts
State of New York Chenango County
I, Rev. Randall, Clerk of said County of Chenango hereby certify that Samuel M c Horn is a Judge of Chenango County Courts as above stated, and that the signature above purported to be his as genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, September 1st. 1837.
R. Randall , Clerk

THE H O L Y B I B L E,
CONTAINING THE
OLD AND NEW
TESTAMENTS:
TRANSLATED OUT OF
THE ORIGINAL TONGUES,
AND WITH
THE FORMER TRANSLATIONS DILIGENTLY COMPARED AND REVISED,
By His Majesty's Special Command.
Appointed to be read in Churches.
Fair as the morn Clear as the sun
EDINBURGH:
PRINTED BY SIR J. H. BLAIR AND J. BRUCE, Printers to the King's most Excellent Majesty.
1799.

Mr Parker's Bible brought still more
Jotham Parker was born April 28 th 175 A
Sarah Seward my Wife was born August 8 th 1857.
We were married the 30 th Dec. 1779.
Luman was born July 20 th 1803.
Sally was born 7 th July 1784.
Lucy was born 16 th May 1787.
Hiland Hall was born 24 th February 1790
Hannan was born 8 th Sep r 1793
Jotham Parker was born 17 th July 1795
Amelia born June 1 st 1800.
Luman Parker died 8 th October 1891.
Jotham Parker died July 19 th 1875
In his sixty 2nd of his age
Lucy M c George Died August 14 th 1823
62

State of New York Secretary's Office
I certify that Robert Monell before whom the annexed depositions were made was on the days of the date thereof Judge of the 6 th Circuit of this State duly commissioned and sworn and by law authorized to take depositions. that the signature to the jurat of said depositions is his proper hand writing and that full faith may be given to his official acts In Testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of this Office at the City of Albany the 11 th day of September A. D. 1844
Arch d Campbell Dep Sec. of State

Gotham Parker Bible Bought 13 of Nov date worn off Gotham Parker was born April 28 - 1754 Sarah my wife was born August 8 1757 We were Married the 30 th Dec 1779 Luman was born July 20 th - 1781 Sally was born 7 of July 1784 Lucy was born 16 th May 1787 Hiland Hall was born 22 nd February 1790 Hannah was born 8 th Sept 1793 Gotham Parker was born 17 July 1796 Amalia Boon June 1 st 1800
Luman Parker died 8 th October 1801 Gotham Parker died July 19 th 1815 In the Sixty 2 d of her age 62 Lucy M c George died August 14 th 1823
State of New York p.s.
Hannah Brinsmade of Country in the County of Chenango gave State of America, being duly sworn, on her oath say, that the above appearing to me but nevertheless and being in a true copy of the original in her later years the bible of Gotham Parker deceased, and a copy, as far as possible bible has hitherto been sent on to Washington, within the year, in the Patent Office. Hannah Brinsmade Sworn to, and subscribed this 9 th day of Sept r 1844 before me: Am I certify that Hannah Brinsmade is a credible witness, within the full extent Robt. Allen, Circuit Judge, Dist. Court of the U.S.

To the Clerk of the Senate or the House of Representatives of the United States at Washington, D.C.
State of New York County of Chenango Town of Coeymans September 9 th 1844
Having been informed that my petition for the allowance of a pension for the services of my Deceased Husband Jonathan Parker as Colonel or Captain of Trams in the Revolutionary war has been rejected by an action of the late United States Senate dated June 15 th 1844 I ask you as the official organ of that body to deliver up all the papers and evidence now in your possession to the Hon Thomas H Seymour of Hartford Ct or his order A member of Congress
State of New York } ss County of Chenango
Sarah Parker
Personally appeared before me
Sarah Parker and acknowledged the above order to be her free act and deed
Robt. Clarke
Circuit Judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit of the State of New York.

Julius Seward (1811)
Sept. 1. 1837
10/10/10 No 4 V J. H. ... William ...
With the sweet remembrance of the days of innocent delight, which will last for ever with us all. May God bless and keep each of us, and bring us all to heaven gloriously. Amen.

State of New York } Broome County }
ss, Silas Seward of Sanford in said County of Broome, being duly sworn, doth on his oath say, that his sister Sarah married Jotham Parker at Norfolk, Connec- ticut the 30th December 1779, and that deponent was present at the marriage, That he was well acquainted with said Jotham Parker since deceased, during the Revolutionary war. That deponent is a pensioner under the act of 1818 and is seventy seven years of age. That in 1776 said Parker enlisted into Captain John Watson Company and General Huntington's Brigade and was a wagon master of said Brigade and he thinks ranked as Captain and that he served most of the time from 1776 to 1781, the said Parker he marched from Norfolk aforesaid to Tienderoga, was in the actions and at the taking of Tienderoga, Crown point and Saint Johns and was on the hill between Peekskill and Fishkill when the British took Fort Montgomery, and deponent was present at the same time, and that deponent frequently saw the said Parker in service during the Revo- lutionary war, and has no doubt that he was in active service in the

After did more than three years sworn to at Woodstock N.Y. 1837 } Silas Seward Before me, and I say that said Silas Seward is a credible person
W. Hamilton Justice of the Peace
State of New York
Broom County ss. I, Clerk of said court do certify that the foregoing Affidavit was taken and subscribed before me this day personally appeared Silas Seward to me known to be the person whose name is subscribed to the foregoing Affidavit and acknowledged to me that he executed the same for the purposes and consideration therein expressed. Given under my hand and seal of office

after did more than three years sworn to at Windsor Sept. 1. 1837 } Silas Seward before me, and I do say } that said Silas Seward is } a credible person W. H. Hamilton Justice of the Peace
State of New York Broome County } ss. } do certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the original now on file in my office and that the same was not altered or tampered with. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office.
Silas Seward (W. 1) Sept. 1. 1837
W. H. Hamilton

Certificate of Marriage

State of Connecticut / Probate Court Litchfield County for Woodbury District
It is hereby certified that Satisfactory evidence has been established before me that Sarah Parker was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States at the rate of $480 per annum. That she died on the 16 th day of November AD 1847 - leaving surviving three Children viz Sarah Walker, Hannah Bleacher & Emily Parker, but that Sarah & Emily Parker is now the only surviving & held.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of the Probate Court for Woodbury District
At Woodbury this 15 th day of March AD 1862 J. H. Huntington - Judge of Probate

Oxford Chenango Co NY May 22d 1857
Sir
From 1839 for several years thereafter I had in charge the claim of Sarah Parker widow of Jotham Parker of Coventry in this county for a pension. A pension was granted and paid to the amount of $2,880 under the act of July 7, 1838. The last letter received by me from the Commissioner of Pensions relating to this claim was dated March 5, 1850.
On the death of said Mrs Parker she left her surviving three children viz; Sally Matten of Binghamton, in this State, Mrs Beardsley formerly Mrs Loveland of this State, and Mrs Emily P. Merwin of Woodbury Connecticut. Mrs Merwin has presented at your department a claim for an increase of said pension as the daughter of said Sarah Parker. Will you please advise me whether said pension has been increased, and when and to the amount thereof?
Respectfully Yours Henry R. Mygatt
To the Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D. C.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
N.Y. 1995-7
Washington, D. C., _____, 19_____
In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of Jotham Parker a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     * 1775 ✓ Officers not stated Conn.   1776 3 or 4 years Major Master Titus Watson Genl Huntington Brigade        
Battles engaged in, at *NY Ticonderoga, Crown Point, St. Johns. Ft. Montgomery
Residence of soldier at enlistment, enlisted at Norfolk Conn.
Date of application for pension, by wid. Aug. 26. 1837 Her d. was ab.
Residence at date of application, Coventry, Chautauqua Co. N.Y.
Age at date of application, see below
Remarks: Soldier, m. Dec. 30. 1779 at Norfolk Conn. Sarah Seward born Aug. 8. 175-7. He died July 19. 1815 at Coventry N.Y. She died Sep. 15. 1847 at Coventry N.Y. and the following children survived her, Hannah Beardslee formerly Loveland, Sally Mather, and Emily P. wife of Joseph R. Merwin see Supplement herewith for further family data.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.

V.Y.H. Rev. War Section.
August 11, 1917.
Mr. George E. Baldwin, 4 High Street, Albany, New York.
Sir:
In addition to the military history of Jotham Parker W. File No. 19,957 Revolutionary War, you are furnished the following data as to his family:
Luman born July 20, 1781, died October 8, 1801. Sally " July 7, 1784. Lucy " May 16, 1787, (Lucy McGeorge died (August 14, 1823. Hiland Hall " February 24, 1790. Hannah " September 8, 1793. Jotham Parker " July 17, 1796. Amelia " June 1, 1800.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

Rev
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 19957
Sarah Parker Widow of Jotham Parker Wagon M r Rev. War
Act: Mar. 3 d 1873
Index:—Vol. _____, Page 114
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Oct. 30/1860. to L. H. Parker Roe Building, St. Louis, Mo., Mich. March 30/1861. Soldier pensioned to Mrs. C. D. Russell, House of Reps. Mich.

Department of the Interior, Pension Office, Official Business
Not Ender
Come back
Sarah Parker
kind of
Botham Packer
NY 1858
Cal
Mr. John Dick
HR

(No. 10)
Recd Proof.

Not important to the present issue

Deed of J. L. L. Snappett, Esq.
Con of
John Parker
Concession
Dec 18th

2918 No 10
NY
4 July 26 G L L C
Sarah Parker
Original
James L. Edwards Esq Coun. of Penins War Department Washington City D.C.

Testimony - the 2000
Papers from 1841. volume.

Sarah Barker
John Sam May - 27 1843
Free
Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D. C.

June 13/50
in relation to claim
Sarah, Mother of
John John, son of son of
43 W 8302
W
Rev. Dr. L. Edwards Committee

Saml. G. Warren Cloth a - 44 - a - 42 -
Hon J. C. Whiting
Commissioner of Pension Office
See Mrs. Com. B. B. B.
Washington D.C.
FREE
have over till the first letter back is returned.

Papers In the Case of Sarah Parker
Dept. Int. Off. Burs.
Comm. of Pensions

8815
New York
Sarah Barker widow of Colham Barker who was a pensioner under the Act of and who died on the 19 July 1815 of Manango in the State of NY who was a Wagon bond in the Co commanded by Captain _____ of the Regt _____ commanded by _____ in the Rev War line for 7 years
Inscribed on the Roll of Albany at the rate of 480 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 26 th day of October 44 and sent to A. S. Pease , Present
Total amount, $21,00.00
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by J. L. Mann Clerk, Vol. 1 Page 175

State of New York
Chenango County } ss. Sarah Parker an applicant for a pension under the act of 1836, being duly sworn, says that she now resides in Litchfield in said County of Chenango having removed from Oxford where she resided when she made her original declaration, that the annexed leaf from the family bible of herself and husband contains a record of the birth and marriage of herself and husband and the birth of her children and the death of said husband, that her said husband bought said bible more than forty years ago in Philadelphia and that the record of their marriage was copied from an old record more than forty years ago from their old small bible by her said husband and that the record of said old bible is lost or destroyed and that said annexed leaf with the bible from which the same is taken has been in different possession since her said husband's death.
Sworn to October 20. W.H. Before me
Joseph Parker
Joseph Parker Justice of the Peace

ate of New York Chenango County, ss. Hannah Beardsley of Coventry in said County of Chenango being sworn I declare that she is forty eight years of age and is the daughter of Jonathan and Sarah Parker and is the Hannah mentioned on the annexed family record as born 8th Sept 1793 and that said leaf is taken from her father and mothers old family bible and that the said record as to their marriage is in her said fathers hand writing and that said record of said marriage was on said leaf at deponents earliest recollection and that deponent lived with her said father and mother until she was twenty years of age and that from her earliest recollection to the marriage of deponent she frequently saw said record and from her marriage to this day has frequently seen said record and that the said record has been kept by her father and mother until her fathers death and since her fathers death the same has been kept by her said mother.
Sworn to October 20th 1841 and I certify that said Hannah Beardsley is a credible person and that I have been acquainted with her for several years
Hannah Beardsley
Subscribed before me John Thompson Justice of the Peace

of New Haven County, I, Levi Parker of Coventry in said County of Litchfield being duly sworn, I say that he was born in Litchfield in New Haven County in Connecticut on the 29th day of March one thousand seven hundred and sixty seven and that Jotham Parker lived where deponent was a boy in the same town and that about the commencement of the Revolution said Jotham with his father moved from said Litchfield to Norfolk in Litchfield County in Connecticut and that said Jotham was deponent's Cousin,
That as deponent was informed and believes true said Jotham was married by the Revd Ammi R. Robbins to Sarah Seward at Norfolk Connecticut in the year 1779. That this deponent's father was killed in the Revolution at New Haven July the 5th 1779 by a ball shot from the enemy as appears from an old record in deponent's possession and as deponent believes true and deponent recollects that in the winter after deponent's father's death said Jotham with his wife Sarah visited deponent's mother's family and it was then said that they had been married and it was their first marriage visit to his mother's family and that said Sarah now lives in Coventry aforesaid,
That in the summer of 1779 before deponent's father's death, said Jotham was at deponent's father's house and said he was a Captain of men or a company in the army, which deponent believes true, and that after buying a yoke of oxen of deponent's father in 1779 he left for the army and deponent well recollects that after his father's death said Jotham was at deponent's mother's house with his wife as aforesaid, and deponent has been, and in the revolution was informed, that after said marriage said Jotham

returned to the army and was a brigade wagon master and called Captain and that when he was married as aforesaid said Jotham was about on a furlough and afterwards returned to the army,
Sworn to October 28 th 1864
Levi Parker
Before me, and I certify that said Levi Parker is a credible and very respectable man, that his health and memory are good and his memory not impaired, and that he has held many offices of trust in said town of Coventry,
Bela Seymour justice

State of New York Chenango County ss.
Levi Packer and Francis Read,
I, Alfred Purdy, Clerk of said County of Chenango hereby certify, that Joel Parker and Bela Seymour were at the date of the within affidavits Justices of the peace in and for said County of Chenango and that the signatures within purporting to be theirs are genuine,
In testimony whereof I have hereat set my hand and affixed the Seal of said County this October 30th 1841.
A. Purdy. Clerk. by Nelson C. Peaford, Dep. Clerk.
Levi Packer
Oct. 30/41

Very Terms June 1. 1860.

Treasury Department June 8 th 1840.
Sir,
Your letter of the 1 st inst y in behalf of Mr. Totham Parker has been received and referred to the Third Auditor for the information desired, who reports as follows. "The Revolutionary records, in this office, do not furnish any evidence of Totham Parker's services as Wagon Master. — As the Accounts of the Quartermasters Dept t of the Revolutionary Army were filed in the office of the Register of the Treasury, it is supposed that the records of that office may, possibly, furnish the evidence sought by the writer in regard to Mr. Parkers Services — And upon further reference to the Register of the Treasury, the following report was received from that Officer: "Upon examining the Revolutionary records, which from the loss by fire in 1814, are rendered very imperfect, I can find no evidence of the services of Totham Parker as a Wagon Master in the years referred to, nor in any other capacity during the War."
I am

I am very respectfully
Your ob st Serv t
Levi Woodbury Secy of the Treasury
Henry R. Mygatt, Esq z
Oxford,
Chenango Co. N.Y.

0 Sarah Parker widow of Lotham Parker
Petition for Pension
January 20 1842 Ref to the Committee on Rev d Pensions.
July 4. 1842 - Bill n o 520.
J. Clarke
J. Clarke 103
Rev d Pension

To the Congress of the United States
This petition of Sarah Parker of Coventry in Chenango County and State of New York,
respectfully represents, that your petitioner in November 1837, presented to the Commissioner of Pensions your petitioners declaration and proof, claiming a pension under the act of July 4th 1836, for her husbands servi- ces as wagon master, for more than two years during the Revolution.
That not until May 1838 an answer was received to said application, which said answer from the Commissioner of Pensions is hereto annexed dated May 24th 1838,
That in August 1838 your petitioner caused additional evidence to be presented to the pension office, to which the Commissioner made reply by letter hereto annexed dated Sept 13. 1838, in which letter the Commissioner, says, "To sustain the claim to service "in that grade (wagon masters) it is by the rule applicable "to the case, required that his Commission or some written "or documentary evidence thereof be produced"
That in January 1839, the certificate and letter of the Comptroller of Connecticut was enclosed to the Commissioner of Pensions, by which it appears that there is no evidence of the service of your pe- titioners husband in the office of the Comptroller of Con- necticut and that only four wagon masters are "found recorded as such on the books" in the Comptrollers office,
That the Commissioners reply thereto is hereto annexed, dated April 13. 1839, in which it is stated, that "a letter or order written at any time during the period in which the service in

question is, alleged to have been rendered recognizing "the grade of the claimant's husband might be deemed "sufficient evidence on that point."
That on the 9th March 1840 your petitioner caused to be enclosed to the Commissioner of Pensions,
1st. The letter of Roger Huntington, date June 10, 1839
2d. The letter of Heman, Sec y of State of Connecticut &
3d. The affidavit of Babez Huntington proving the destruction by fire of the revolutionary papers of his father Gen l . Sedediah Huntington,
That to the letter enclosing said papers of the 9th March 1840, a reply was received, annexed, dated May 27, 1840, in which reference is made to the Treasury and State department for evidence, and in said letter the Commissioner of Pensions, asks for record evidence,
That search was made in June 1840 for record evidence of the service of said Jonathan Parker in the State and Treasury department, but without success, as appears by the letter of John Forsyth, then Secretary of State, annexed, dated June 16, 1840, and the letter of Levi Woodbury, then Secretary of the Treas- ury, annexed dated June 20th 1840
That your petitioner failing to procure record evidence of the service at the public offices in Connec- ticut and at Washington, caused search to be made by a person despatched to Washington for that purpose, among the Washington papers in the Secretary of States office, which search resulted in a certificate from the keeper of the archives, proving the said Jonathan Parker to have been a "conductor of teams" during the Revolution, which said certif- icate dated July 14, 1841 is on file in the office of the

Commissioner of pensions.
That annexed dated July 15. 1841 is the letter of the Commissioner in relation to said evidence from the Washington papers and also relating to the marriage of said Deborah Parker to your petitioner,
That on the 6th of November 1841 your petitioner caused additional proof relating to said marriage to be furnished the Commissioner of pensions and also the affidavits of Levi Parker and Silas Seward proving service as a brigade wagon master both before and after marriage.
That the reply of the Commissioner hereto annexed dated November 11th 1841, admits the evidence sufficient to prove the marriage in December 1779 and states that "unless he can be traced on the records after the marriage her claim cannot be allowed under the act of July 4th 1836"
That your petitioner on the 3d December 1841 caused an additional affidavit of said Silas Seward to be enclosed to the Commissioner of pensions, to which the reply annexed was received dated December 11th 1841, also annexed is the letter of the Commissioner of pensions dated Nov 26, 1841, to which your petitioner would refer.
That from an examination of your petitioner's case, it will appear that your petitioner was married to said Deborah Parker in December 1779 and that said Parker was in service a conductor of teams as brigade wagon master both before and after said marriage for several years.
That from the great difficulty in finding record evidence, in wagon service, your petitioner

believes, that additional record evidence never can be procured, and therefore prays that the pension of a wagon conductor being $400 per annum from the 1st of March 1831 may be granted your petitioner.
That your petitioner more than four years since presented her declaration for a pension. that she is now more than eighty two years of age - is in infirm health and is dependant on charity for support and she asks that her petition may receive early attention.
Sarah Parker
by Henry R. Mygatt her Agent.
State of New York }
Chenango County } ss Henry R. Mygatt of Oxford in said County of Chenango, being duly sworn, declare that he has had charge of the application of Sarah Parker for a pension and that he believes the above petition subscribed by deponent for said Sarah Parker to be true.
Given to Jany 5th 1842, }
Henry R. Mygatt,
Before me }
Alvan J. Perkins
Commissioner of Deeds Oxford New York

Pension Office December 11 th 1841
Sir,
The deposition of Silas Seward in the case of Mrs Sarah Parker enclosed in yours of the 3 rd inst is but a repetition of his former one and leaves the claim in the same condition as at the date of my last letters. If she shall assert a claim under the act of July 7 th 1838 she should make a declaration to that effect. But unless it can be satisfactorily shown when he entered and left the service no pension can be granted her.
I am, Very respectfully Yr. Mr. A. H.
J. L. Edwards
Henry R. Mygatt Esq. Ossipee New York

Cont. sent July 15. 1874 Recd Nov 26. 1874
J. L. Edwards
H. R. Mygatt Esq. Present,

Pension Office July 15. 1841
Sir,
In the case of Sarah Parker the extracts from the Washington papers in the State Department are sufficient to shew that her late husband was a waggon conductor in 1778 but the evidence on file is not sufficient to establish with the requisite precision that he was in the service after 30 December 1779 the alleged date of her marriage so as to bring the case within the Act of July 1836.
The proof of the date of the marriage is unsatisfactory. The witnesses do not state the means by which they have retained a knowledge of the date in relation to a common occurrence for upwards of 60 years. Parol testimony should be received I make great allowance upon such a point in the matter particularly in a case like the present where a slight error of memory would be decisive of the claim. The town clerk and the proper officer of the Presbyterian church of Norfolk (in which she says it was published) should certify whether their records of marriages, births, baptisms, &c either confirm

discredit the alleged relation of husband and wife at that time. It is not to be questioned that that relation is almost universally susceptible of record or documentary proof and claimants are required to produce the best attainable testimony.
I am Very respectfully Your Obed. Servt. J L Edwards
Con. Genl. July 10. 1874 Head No. 26. W.H.
H. R. Mygatt Esq. Present,

La. Williams May 24. 1830
J L Edwards Comm te of Pensions H. 1. 6. 4.
Henry R. Mygatt Esq., Oxford New York
P.P. -

War Department Pension Office
May 24. 1838
Sir The papers of Mrs Sarah Parker widow of Jonathan Parker have been examined & filed - It is alleged by the claimant that her husband was a Wagon Master and served in that capacity from 1776 till 1781: But his name does not appear on the rolls of the Wagon Master General in any grade - If the applicant's husband served as a Wagon Master during the period referred to it is probable, unless unemployed under civil contract, that he derived his appointments from the field of Connecticut, in that case some evidence in support of the claim may be had by application to the Comptroller of Connecticut to whom reference is made for that purpose
Respectfully
Your obed servt
J. L. Edwards
Henry R. Maygate Esq. Hartford New York
wrote to Parker to come up by Bingle May 29 38 Orill

J. L. Edwards Sept. 13. 1838

War Department Pension Office Sept. 13. 1838
Sir,
The additional evidence in the case of Mrs. Sarah Parker, contained in your letter of the 25 th ult o . has been examined. It is said by one of the witnesses that the claimant's husband served as a wagon master from 1776 to 1781; but it may be said that there were no wagon masters appointed in the continental service as early as 1776. To sustain the claim to service in that grade, it is by the rule applicable to the case, required that his commission or some written or documentary evidence thereof be produced. The name of the Colonel of the regiment in which Titus Watson was a Captain at the period of Jotham Parker's enlistment may aid the investigation.
I am respectfully
Your Obek. Servt.
J. L. Edwards
H. R. Mygatt, Esq. Oxford Chenango County N. York

J. Sedgwick
FREE
Com t of Pensions
Henry R. Mygatt, Esq.
Oxford
N. York
Com t Pensions Oct 13 1839

War Department Pension Office
April 13. 1839
Sir,
The certificate of the Comptroller of Connecticut, enclosed in your letter of the 16 th January last furnishes no evidence whatever of the services of Jotham Parker as a Wagonmaster . His name is not on the rolls of the Wagon Master General in 1778, where the name of every wagonmaster then in the continental service may be presumed to be recorded. No direction can be given as to any other source of information on the subject. A letter or order written at any time during the period in which the service in question is alleged to have been rendered recognizing the grade of the claimant's husband might be deemed sufficient evidence on that point.
I am respectfully Your Obet. Servt. J. Edwards
M. R. Mygatt, Esq. Oxford N. York

Pension Office
May 27. 1840
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 9 th March last relative to the claim of M rs Sarah Parker, widow of Jotham Parker, I have to inform you that it cannot be allowed upon the proof on file. The rule applicable to this case requires that the commission of the officer whose service is to be established should be found in the records of his appointment. If there is any evidence in support of this claim which is not in this Department, it should be furnished. It does not appear where that referred to by M r Yates is to be found. If in the Treasury or State Department, it may be obtained by an application direct for that purpose.
I am respectfully Your obed Servt.
J. L. Edwards
H. R. Mygatt, Esq. Oxford N. York

Com: penwrit Nov 11. 1840

Department of State, June 16 th , 1840.
Henry R. Mygatt Esquire, Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y.
Sir,
Your letter of the 1 st instant has been received and the search therein requested made, but nothing is found relative to the services of Nathan Parker.
I am, Sir,
Your Obedt. Servt.
John Forsyth

Pension Office November 11 th 1841
Sir,
The additional evidence in the case of Mrs Sarah Parker is sufficient to establish the alleged date of the marriage; but neither the length of the service nor its termination is ascertained with the necessary precision. There is no evidence in the Staff returns of the Army that he was in service after October 1778 and her marriage took place in December 1779. Unless he can be traced on the records after the marriage her claim cannot be allowed under the act of July, 4 th 1836.
I am, Very respectfully Mr M c O h St.
J L Edwards
Henry R. Mygatt Esq. Cortland New York

Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y. Nov 13. 1837
Sir,
I send declaration of Sarah the widow of Latham Parker for a pension,
The testimony of Silas Steward proves that from 1776 to 1781 Latham Parker served as a wagon master in Col. Huntington's Brigade, — also that he was present at the marriage Dec r 30. 1779.
That there is no parish or town record of marriage is proved by Aaron Roy, town clerk of Norfolk, Connecticut.
That Latham Parker died 17 July 1815 and that the widow has not since married is proved by her son Latham.
Please ad dress me at the place above dated.
Very Respectfully Your obed Serv
Henry B. Mygatt
J. L. Edwards Esq Comm ee of Pensions War Dept Washington City

State of Connecticut Litchfield County } to Norfolk Nov 7 - 1837
Asaah Roye of Norfolk in said County of Litchfield being duly sworn. Says that he is 67 years of age, and that he is the town Clerk of Norfolk aforesaid. that he has made diligent search of the town records of Norfolk aforesaid to find evidence of the marriage of Nathan Parker to Sarah Seward, and also the church records of the Presbyterian Church in Norfolk over which the Rev d . A. R. Robins presided during the Revolutionary war to find like evidence of the marriage aforesaid, that Giles Pettibone was a Justice of the peace of Norfolk aforesaid in 1779, and that said Giles Pettibone is dead, and that his son Augustus Pettibone Esq. resides in Norfolk aforesaid, and that deponent and said Augustus Pettibone Esq. made search among the old papers of said Giles Pettibone Esq. and that after diligent search as aforesaid no record of said marriage can be found in the office of deponent, in the records of the church aforesaid or among the papers of Giles Pettibone deceased, and further this deponent saith not. Asaah Roye Town Clerk —

not
Sworn to November 7. 1837
Before me, and I certify that I am well acquainted with said Aaron Roy and that he is a creditable person
Aaron Tibbals justice of the peace
State of Connecticut } Litchfield County }
ss Litchfield
I Geo. C. Woodruff Assistant Clerk
of the County Court of the County & State aforesaid do hereby certify that Aaron Tibbals Esq. is a justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and qualified; and that the above signature which purports to be his I believe to be genuine
Given under my hand & the seal of said Court this 7 th day of November A. D. 1837
Geo. C. Woodruff Assistant Clerk
Adn 200 Roy
110

Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y. Dec 3. 1841.
Sir,
In the case of Sarah Parker I send a new affidavit of proving 2\frac{1}{2} years service as Conductor of teams prior to the marriage in December 1779.
As it is, I believe impossible, to find record of evidence of service after the marriage as required in your letter of the 11th Nov. ult. the widow concludes to accept a five years pension. Her wants force her so to do. The length of service is not only proved by the within affidavit but corroborated by other affidavits on file, and as more than two years service is shown, I presume that a certificate will not be required for five years pension \$100 per annum, being the amount named in yours of the 26th Nov. ult. as being a full pension of a wagon Conductor.
Very Respect d Yours
Henry R. Mygatt
J. L. Edwards Esq. Com d Gen l War Dept t .

Julius Seward No 3
Nov. 24. 1841
0 No 7
H

State of New York
Broome County, ss Silas Seward of Sanford in said County of Broome and State of New York, aged eighty one years being duly sworn. Saith in addition to the affidavits heretofore made by him on the application of his sister Sarah Parker of Chenango County in New York for a pension that before the marriage of Deborah Parker to his said sister in 1779 (December) in Norfolk, Connecticut, he was well acquainted with said Deborah Parker.
That this deponent well recollects and knows that said Deborah Parker was absent in active service as a conductor of teams as a brigade wagon master at least two years and six months in the years 1777, 1778 and 1779 before his marriage to deponent's sister and that he ranked as Captain and was called Captain Parker, and that deponent frequently saw him in service during said years. Silas Seward
Sworn to November 24 th 1840
Before me, and I certify that I am well acquainted with said Silas Seward and that he is in sound mind, and health, and that his memory is not impaired
William Maclean Justice of the Peace
State of New York
Broome County ss, John G. Moore, Clerk of said County, do certify that William Maclean, Esq., whose name appears above, and before the above affidavit purports to have been subscribed & sworn, was, at the time of making the above certificate, and taking said affidavit, a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, and duly elected and sworn in authority to do the same. Also, I am acquainted with his hand writing, and believe his signature above genuine. Witness my hand & seal at Binghamton, 1. Dec r 1840. John G. Moore, Clerk.
whom in said County

South Park Conway
✓ 183 Mr Henry Bellows Oxford Chautauqua County New York
Deer Park
You had better see my gate before you go to deposit
South Park, New York May 13. 1837

Comptroller's Office Hartford Connecticut August 18 th 1837
Sir
I have examined the Books & papers relating to Revolutionary services for the purpose of proving the service of Solomon Parkin, but have been unable to prove that he served at all.
The first charge to Capt Titus Watson on the Pay table Books is under date of April 18 th 1817, and no evidence of previous service has appearance, as the applicant claims to have enlisted under Watson in 76. the entries on the pay table books can be of but little service in a certificate.
I know of no Books or documents in this Office, by which Mr Parkin's service can be proved.
I Am Respectfully Yours W. Field

Oxford. Chenango Co. N.Y. August 25. 1838
Sir,
In further support of the claim of Mrs Sarah Parker, I send two affidavits persons who knew him in service. The certificate of the Comptroller of Connecticut proves that Watson was a Captain from 1777 but no service of Parker.
She reads the affidavit of the two witnesses satisfactorily prove her husband's service, and that a certificate may be issued. Address me at the place above dated
I am. Very Respect e Yours on Service Henry R. Mygatt
J. L. Edwards Esq Com d of Penn a in War Dept t Washington City D. C.

[Signature] Henry W. Congate Esq. Oxford Chinango County N.Y.
Dec. 21 A. S. Park
B Cash at 5:130. [Stamp]

Comptrollers Office
Hartford Conn t Oct 5 1838
I certify that in reference to the Services of Nathan Parker who claims service in the Revolutionary War under Capt. Titus Watson. I have examined the Books & Papers in this Office and do not find his name. That on Pay Table Books is the following entry Capt. Titus Watson Col t Swifts Battal n Dec r Ap r 18. 1777 To order on Treas r this State bounty as per Rev d $100. and other charges from June 5 1777 to Sept 24 1778 making in all $1489-12-4. Or by age Render d Feby 10 1786 $799-12-4 bal c carr d to new ac t $620. Feby 10 To bal c of the above account reduced to Specie $264-6-4. To order on Treas r to secure the bal c before 1780 $26-14-9. Feby 10 1786 By Bal c due for Services in Col t Swifts Reg t $291-1-1. I further certify that only Four Waggon Masters are found recorded as such on the Books in this Office
Henry Wiborn Compt r

Comptroller Office Hartford Oct 5 1838
Dear Sir! Enclosed you have Col. Titus Watson's ap- as stands on our Books we have no means of knowing the length of service only by the amount of 60s which appears in this case to be larger - It is not in my power to give you the required information respecting the appointment of Waggon Master But think the appointment was made by the Genl Officers of the Regiment, authorized by the Genl Assembly, - Yours Respectfully our charge in such cases &c - Henry Wolbourn Clerk 3
To Henry A. Mygatt Esq.
No.

Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y. Jan'y 16. 1839.
Sir,
In the case of Mrs Sarah Parker widow of Jotham Parker. I send additional certificate of the Compt o of Connecticut. The testimony of the three witnesses on file in this case, establishes the fact that Jotham Parker was a waggon master for several years during the Revolution. Jotham Parker's house and all his papers were burned several years since, and it appears from the certificate of the Comptroller of Connecticut, that but few waggon masters are recorded,
Under such circumstances, is this not a proper case to waive the rule requiring "written or documentary evidence" and can you advise me of any place where "written or documentary evidence" of such service can be found,
Address me at the place above
I am, Very Respect t Yours affec t
Henry A. Mygatt
J. L. Edwards Esq Com Pension War Dept Washington City D.C.

Leicester Cont. abt 20 1829
Henry R. Mygatt Esq. Oxford. Chenango County N.Y.

Wartford April 20 th 1839
Sir
Yours of the 17 th inst is before me, and I am sure that no record has ever been kept of weegon Masters in any of the public offices - so that I can hardly suppose they were appointed by the General officers of the Commissions Department - Such an officer is not known upon the State Record, and I have not seen but two accounts of such an officer upon the books in the Comptroller's office -
Respectfully
Yours B. A. Kimman
Wartford Sunday's Office
Henry A. H. Hays Oxford N.Y. -

Q Lake Huntington alt. May 1.
1039
Burned papers of Jed. Huntington office Sage N.Y. of Tuckahoe Volcanic bomb definite Henry R. Tuckahoe N.Y.
/8

I Jacob Huntington of Norwich New London County. State of Connecticut. aged Seventy one years. do depose and say. That I am the Son of the late General Judiah Huntington. of said town, county, and State, now deceased, who was and then in the Revolutionary Army. That he died in the year 1818. and that soon after his decease, all his revolutionary papers were consumed by fire. The deponent also further states, that he knows of no Officers living, belonging to the Brigade commanded by his father, either in this State or elsewhere. In witness whereof. I hereby subscribe my hand and seal, this twenty eighth day of May 1839. Jacob Huntington
State of Connecticut County of New London ss. City of Norwich.
Be it remembered, that on the twenty eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord one thou- sand eight hundred & thirty nine, at said City, before me the subscriber, a Public Notary for said State dwelling in said City & being duly Commissioned & sworn. Came Jacob Huntington Esq who subscribed & sealed the foregoing deposition, and made affidavit thereto. And I further certify that I have for many years known the said Jacob Hun- tington, and that his credibility is entirely unimpeachable & above suspicion. In testimony whereof I

have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Notary's seal on the day and year last aforesaid.
George Perkins, Notary Public.

18 3 / 4
Henry R. Mygatt Esq r Oxford Chenango County N. York
A Rosen Huntington June 10. 1839

Norwich June 10. 1839
Henry R. Mygatt Esq
Sir. I arrived home Saturday evening and your letter dated June 1 st was put into my hand, in answer to your enquiries I am sorry to say that in all my investigations of the books in the office of the Comptroller of Public Accounts, I found little or nothing relating to the Waggon master department. I had many applications from persons in that had served in different grades in that department for proof to enable them to obtain pensions, but I never found proof in a single case. The best information I could obtain in relation to it, was, that the regulation was under the control of the Quarter master Department. I do not know any person that can furnish any evidence in relation thereto. Very respectfully your most ob t . Roger Huntington

Oxford. Chenango Co. N.York. March 9. 1840
Sir,
By your letter of the 13th April last. in relation to the claim of Sarah widow of Lotham Parker for a pension, you remark "that no direction can be given as to any other source of information on the subject. (referring to the wagon master generals rolls of 1798) You also add. that "A letter or order written at any time during the period in which the service in question is alleged to have been rendered recognizing the grade of the claimants husband might be deemed sufficient evidence on that point,"
Since the receipt of which letter searches have been made in all places where it is supposed that any written evidence might exist but no written evidence is yet found except as hereafter stated.
Within you have the letters of R. R. Newman Esq. Secretary of State of Connecticut, and Roger Huntington late Comptroller of Connecticut showing no records are to be found in the offices of Connecticut of the appointment, or service of wagon masters to any amount. you also have the affidavit of Salge Huntington son of General Ledediah Huntington under whom Parker served showing that Genl. Huntingtons revolutionary papers were several years since consumed by fire,
Do we not show sufficient to admit the parole proof which fully proves the service, when we show that the record is burned or that none

exists in Connecticut do not the rules of the department conform to the rules of our Courts admitting the parol when there is no higher proof? In this case you have on file the affidavits of three witnesses who prove the service?
It is proper that I should remark that I am advised by letter received last week from "Isaac J. Yates" Esq of Schenectady, "that in looking some memoranda he made at Washington last September he finds the name of Jonathan Parker as wagon master in 1778 & 1779 but under a different Superior officer from the one named by us. viz: one Smith," and he further adds I have no doubt however of the identity" he also adds that he will get the claim allowed at once if there is no difficulty in the way except the want of documents" but he insists upon as payment for his services 20 per cent of the pension.
The widow is willing to pay liberally for services relating to her pension but before she pays the 20 per cent. she again asks your investigation of this matter. If the evidence is to be found at Washington the same must be under your control and she begs you to give your kind attention to this claim. She is aged, poor and infirm and it is desirable if she is to receive the reward due for her husband's services, that she receives them soon.
Allow me once more to ask your immediate attention to this claim.
Will you allow me to hear from you

by the earliest mail.
I have the honor to be
Your obedt Servant
Henry R. Mygatt
J. L. Church Esq.
Com d of pens ns
War Dept t
Washington City
D. C.

Oxford. Chenango Co. N.Y. July 27. 1841
Sir,
On the 14th inst I left at your office documentary proof in support of the claim of Sarah Parker widow of Solomon Parker for a pension. In your letter of 13th April 1839 you state that "a letter or order written at any time during the period in which the service in question is alleged to have been rendered recognizing the grade of the claimants husband might be deemed sufficient evidence on that point". The documentary evidence produced shows him to have been a wagon conductor in Augt & Oct 48 and afterwards in October 48 a Brigade Quarters Master. The said proof shows that he continued in the wagon department until near the close of the war in 51. Silas Seward the first witness says that he was a Conductor of teams or brigade wagon master - the other witnesses call him brigade wagon master. Seward was at the wedding in 47-48 and he continued afterwards in service in the wagon department. - and the witnesses speak of him as Captain.
I trust you will grant a life pension with Captain's pay as I believe the evidence will now be satisfactory. The extreme wants of the widow require me to ask your kind and immediate attention.
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Court. Room War Dept. Washington City D.C.
I have the honor to be Sir
Henry R. Mygatt

3
Oct 30, 1841
0
no 6 1/2
read -

State of Connecticut Litchfield County
ss. I Aaron Hays of Norfolk in said County of Litchfield and State of Connecticut, being duly sworn doth on his oath say that he is Seventy one years of age and is the town clerk of said town of Norfolk, that he has made search in the records of said town for evidence of the marriage of Johann Parker to Sarah Seward by the Rev. Ammi Robbins in December 1779 and that there is no record of said marriage in or among the records of said town and that the records of marriages - births, baptisms or other records of said town, neither confirm or discredit the alleged relation of said Johann and Sarah as husband and wife in December 1779, but that it appears from said town records that said Rev. Ammi R. Robbins was a minister of said town of Norfolk in 1779 and for several years thereafter
Aaron Hays Town Clerk for the town of Norfolk Connecticut
Sworn to October 30th 1841 Before me
Michael F. Mills Justice of Peace
STATE OF CONNECTICUT, } ss. Litchfield. LITCHFIELD COUNTY,
I Origen S. Seymour. Clerk
of the County Court of the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that
Michael F. Mills Esquire is a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified, and by Law authorized to administer Oaths and to take the acknowledgment of Deeds. And that his commission was dated on the 24 th day of June A. D, 1841 and will expire on the 20th day of June, A. D. 1842, and that the foregoing signature and also the signature on the opposite side of this document purporting to be the signatures of said Justice are genuine
Given under my hand and the Seal of said Court this
15 th day of November A. D. 1841
Origen S. Seymour Clerk

State of Connecticut Litchfield County
Joseph Eldridge & of Norfolk in said County of Litchfield, being duly Sworn. Says that he is the pastor of the Presbyterian Church in said Norfolk and upon search of the records of said church it appears that the Rev. Ammi W. Robbins was ordained as the minister of said church in 1761 and that he contin- ued in his charge as pastor of said church for some years after the Revolutionary war, and that it appears from the monument erected in the burying ground of said Norfolk to the memory of the said Rev. Mr. Robbins that "he died on the 31st day of October 1813 aged 73"
That the records of marriages - births - baptisms &c. of said church neither affirm or discredit the alleged relation of husband and wife as existing between Johann Parker and Sarah (Servant) in December 1779.
Joseph Eldridge Jr.
Sworn to Oct 30 th 1841 Before me
Michael A. Mills Justice of Peace

John Thomas
4
No 3
B
July 4. 1858-
✓

I John Thomas of Colebrook, Litchfield County, Connecticut aged seventy six upon oath that I enlisted in the year 1776. into the service of the United States as a private soldier, the name of the Captain that commanded the company to which I belonged was Joseph Walker, of Stratford, & belonged to the Brigade commanded by Genl. Huntington, & I belonged to the same Regiment with Capt. Titus Watson of Norfolk, Conn te , & that Nathan Parker of said Norfolk belonged to the company com- manded by Capt. Titus Watson, he enlisted as a private, & was during the same campaign was appointed & served as Brigade Wagon Master, - the troops marched in different squads & came together at Eiconderaga, & Parker was there with me there at the taking of Eiconderaga, Crown Point, St Johns, & was at the Hill with me between Peekskill & Fishkill, when the British took Fort. Mc- Gonigle - I was well acquainted with Parker, & know that he served for a period of four years in the service of the United States & as Brigade Wagon Master, & I think he served longer than I have stated; the period was from 1776. to 1781. soon after Parker enlisted & before he performed any duty he

was appointed Brigade Wagon Master, & as such he served - & further saith not. John Thomas
Leitchfield County of Rockbridge July 14 th 1838 Personally appeared John Thomas, Signer of the foregoing affidavit & made solemn oath to the truth of the same, & I further certify that the said John Thomas is well known to me, & is a credible witness - Samuel Whifford Just of the peace

I, ROYAL B. HINMAN , Secretary of the State of Connecticut, and keeper of the Seal thereof, do hereby certify and make known to whom it doth or may concern,
THAT Samuel Whitford — Esquire, is, and for more than one month last past, has been a Justice of the Peace within and for the County of Litchfield in said State, duly appointed, commissioned and qualified, having full power and authority, by the laws of said State, to take the acknowledgement of Deeds and to certify the same; also to administer oaths to witnesses and to take Affidavits and Depositions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; and that full faith and credit may and ought to be given to the official acts and attestations of the said Sam d Whitford in Court and Country.
In testimony whereof, I have, in my capacity of Secretary as aforesaid, hereunto set my Hand, and affixed the Seal of said State, at the City of Hartford, in said State, the 18 th day of July — in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight
And I further certify that the signature of said Whitford hereto attached is his genuine signature.
Royal B. Hinman Secretary of State.
Job 1/4
X

Brief of W. G. D. Miller Esq. Jotham Parker for Inverness
In Letter of the Hon. John Dick House of Reps. Jan. 3 rd 1856. S

Sarah Parker, the wd. of Jetham, New York: originally allowed under act of July 7, 1838. It is now claimed that the case is in force of the act of July 4, 1836.
This claim was rejected on the 26 th of August 1837, under the act of July 4, 1836, for service as a Wagon Master, from 1776 to 1781. The marriage of the parties is shown by a Record found to have taken place on the 30 th of Dec. 1778. The claim for was rejected by the office on the ground that there was no testimony which would show that service was rendered after marriage. On the 3 rd day of September 1844, the claim was rejected under the act of July 7, 1838, and allowed on the 26 th of October of that year, for two years service as a Wagon Master, at the rate of $480 per annum. Whilst the claim was pending in this office, the petition Mrs. Parker petitioned Congress for the allowance of her claim under the act of July 4, 1836, and on the 15 th of February 1840, the Housing Committee on Revolutionary pensions of the House of Representatives, reported, as entitled

one of people, no 1, a letter for her about an old record etc.
The claimant alleged, in her original declaration that, in 1776. She said Jethan enlisted in the time of Norfolk, Conn. under Capt. Titus Watson, and served as a Brigade Wagon Master "from the time he enlisted, most of the time, until 1781" that he served at least three years and was at the taking of Ticonderoga etc.
Dana Orris testifies that he was never acquainted with Jethan Parker, knows not he enlisted into Capt. Watson's company in 1776 - that he served as Brigade Wagon Master in Genl. Huntington's Brigade, and, to the best of his recollection, about three years.
John Thomas of Colchester, Conn. testifies that Parker enlisted in Watson's company of Kent's Brigade and was appointed and served as Brigade Wagon Master, from 1776 to 1781. He was

affidavit Brigade Wage Master was after he enlisted.
[Affidavit no 1] John Seward , a pensioner in the New York Post under the act of March 18, 1888, deposes that in 1876, Jotham Parker enlisted in Capt. John Walser's company, 2 Co. H. 104th Inf. Brigade and was a Wage Master of said Brigade, from 1876 to 1878. The respondent further saw Parker in service during the Red Bank war, and has no doubt that he was in service upwards of three years!
John Parker , of Gray Court, N.Y., alleges that in the summer of 1878, upon his father's death, Jotham Parker was at his father's house, and that he was a Captain of Team, a Wage Master. That, after buying a yoke of oxen from his father's estate, he left for the Army. That after his father's death, which was in July 1878, said Parker was at his mother's house with his wife, and deposes that her informs that, after said marriage, said Park-

or returned to the Army and was a Brigadier Wage Mark and called Captain - and that when he was promoted he was absent on a furlough and afterwards returned to the Army. [See also, Silas Seward , Affidavit No 2]
Silas Seward [Affidavit No 2] That before John Parker's marriage to his sister in December 1878 he was then engaged with John Parker, and recalls and knows that he was absent in active service as a conductor of trains, at least two years and six months in the years, 1877, 1878, and 1879 and before his marriage to his sister, and that he worked as Captain and was called Captain Parker.
Mary Phelps was then engaged with Jo- hn Parker, and his mother Sarah Parker, and that said John was reported to have served as Captain a conductor of trains under Col. Frederick Woodworth, as she then, so long as the train was required in the service.
The above concerns all of the park property

filed prior to the expiration of the claim under the Act of July 9, 1838. The Record found this consist of the papers entered into an Indulge, and marked Record found , showing that Jotham Parker was a conductor of Trains, from March 11, 1837 to March 11, 1838 - and on formering stated the said Exhibit the claim was allowed, under the Act aforesaid, and the date of March 30 1843, on the 26 th of Oct. & June 17, 1844, on the 26 th of Octob 1844, for two years, service as a conductor of Trains, at the rate of $480 per annum.
On the 7 th of November 1853, and again on the 25 th of Nov. of that year, the claim was considered under the Act of July 9, 1836, and rejected for the reasons stated in the letters of these dates, addressed to H. L. C. Tufts, Esq. It is now claimed by the Tufts, that the object in view, that natural testing was overlooked, and in the progress of the office at the time of the expiration of the claim on the 25 th of Nov. 1853. The rules upon the Record of Trains

some file with an Archibald Paper , showing that all of the experiments a Seamer made in the year 1877 were for three years - a fact which has been confirmed by a letter from the State De- partment dated on the 28 th of Oct last. and there, that all who engaged in that branch of the service at that date must be referred to their respective their engagements unless other- wise otherwise  otherwise shown by capable proof - and that William Porter who has been in charge of the  the  post  which should be deemed valid  post  since  since
I have most carefully examined our Records, and all the facts bearing upon the con- tinuance of the among them direct proof that Porter was a seamer or a Wagon Contractor after Dec. 30, 1879, and the question is the duration of the consumption  is  the office is justified, in the absence of Record proof of service after November , on the evidence which is furnished by the Records of the State De- partment and the office, admitting the existence  admitting the existence of the claim under the Act of Feb. 4, 1883.

7. 0 John Howard David Groves July 16. 1838
(No 2)
K

I David Orris of Colebrook Litchfield County & State of Connecticut aged 91 years the 15 th of January last depart & Saith that I enlisted in the year 1776 in the Service of the United States as a private Soldier The name of the Captain who commanded the company to which I belonged was Captain Herman Allen of Salisbury in said County that Company marched from Norfolk to Greenbush thence to Albany & Scituate & was in the latter at the taking of St. Johns The deponent further Saith that he was well acquainted with Jotham Parker of Norfolk & was knowing of his enlisting in Captain Watrous Company of said Norfolk in the year 1776 that said Parker served as Brigade Wagon Master in General Huntingtons Brigade & ranked as Captain that said Parker was with me on the hill at Peekskill and that said Parker served to the best of my recollection about 3 years in the Service of the United States The deponent further Saith that he the said Orris enlisted into Captain Herman Allens Company & Generals Huntingtons Brigade at the period above stated
David Orris
Litchfield County ss Colebrook July 16 th 1888 Personally appeared before me David Orris Signer of the above affidavit & made solemn Oath to the truth of the same & I further certify that the said David Orris sustains a good character for truth & veracity
Isaac Lewis Justice of Peace

I, ROYAL B. HUNMAN , Secretary of the State of Connecticut, and keeper of the Seal thereof, do hereby certify and make known to whom it doth or may concern,
THAT Isaac Lewis Esquire, is, and for more than one month last past, has been a Justice of the Peace within and for the County of Pittsfield in said State, duly appointed, commissioned and qualified, having full power and authority, by the laws of said State, to take the acknowledgement of Deeds and to certify the same; also to administer oaths to witnesses and to take Affidavits and Depositions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; and that full faith and credit may and ought to be given to the official acts and attestations of the said Isaac Lewis in Court and Country.
In testimony whereof, I have, in my capacity of Secretary as aforesaid, hereunto set my Hand, and affixed the Seal of said State, at the City of Hartford, in said State, the 18th day of July in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and eight .
And I further certify that the signature of the said Isaac Lewis to the attestation of (David Orr) , is his genuine hand writing.
Royal B. Hunman and Secretary of State

Silas Second. No 2 Married in 1780 October 29, 1841
(No 5)
4 1
2

State of New York
Broome County } ss I, Silas Seward of Sanford in said County of Broome, being duly sworn, says that he is eighty one years of age and was a fifer in the Revolution and that on the 30th day of December 1779 his Sister Sarah was married at Norfolk, Connecticut to Jotham Parker in deponents presence by the Rev d . Annon H. Robbins of said Norfolk and that deponent carried a dollar for said Jotham to pay the priest for marrying them and that the Rev d . Mr. Robbins declined receiving pay therefor. and that deponent recollects the time of their marriage from the fact that in December 1780 deponent was discharged from service, and that he was discharged from service about one year after his said Sister was married to said Parker and that said Sister now lives in Coeymans in Chenango County in New York.
That deponent knew said Parker before his mar- riage in said Norfolk and that he was a brigade wagon master for several years before said marriage and after said marriage in active service until 1780. That deponents brother Stephen Stewart was a teamster under said Parker in service and that said Stephen is now dead and that late in Summer or early in the fall of 1780 said Stephen was sick in the army and that deponent with the assistance of said Jotham Parker got him the said Stephen released from the service. That deponent applied to said Jotham to assist him to get his brother discharged and that said Jotham was then a brigade wagon master conductor in service and called Captain Parker and that de- ponent called on said Parker to assist him, as he was his brother in law having married his Sister as aforesaid, and that deponent well recollects that his said brother was discharged after said marriage, and that said brother was at Peterkill when dis-

changed from Service when said as aforesaid.
That said William Parker was a conductor of ten cars as brigade wagon master and in active service from 1861 until 1864 and was in active service in said office for more than three years, as was said and understood in said Parker family during said time and that deponent frequently saw him in service during said time.
Sworn to October 29th 1864 Before me, and I certify that Simon Seward is a credible person and his memory not impaired by the infirmities of age and that his health is good.
Simon Seward
William Macclure Justice of the Peace
State of New York Broome County
I, John G. Moore, Clerk of said
County, do hereby certify, that William Macclure Esq., whose name is subscribed above, to a certificate of an affidavit, and before whom said affidavit purports to have been sworn or taken, was, at the time of taking said affidavit, a justice of the peace in and for said County, duly elected and sworn, and authorized to act as such. And that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice. And verily believe his signature subscribed as Justice of the Peace to be genuine: —
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my official seal, at Binghamton, in said County, this 1st day of November, A.D. 1864.
John G. Moore Clerk
"taking" interlined in my certificate J. G. Moore

Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y. August Sept 14, 1841
Sir,
By your letter of the 9 th inst. respecting the case of Sarah Parker, widow &c. in reply to my letter of the 27 th July, you refer me to your letter of the "15 th of that month for the "views of the Department as well in relation to the "proof of the marriage as of the alleged service"
Your letter of the 15 th of that month has never reached me. Will you please, therefore send me a copy of your letter of the 15 th , Will you please send same by return mail
I have the honor to be Respect d Yours
Henry R. Mygatt
J. L. Edwards Esq. Com d of Pensions War Dept t Washington City D.C.

Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y. October 14. 1841
Sir,
On the 27th July last I addressed you respecting the estate of Mrs. Sarah Parker and on the 9th of September more than one month thereafter I received your reply referring me to your letter of the 15th of that month for the views of the Department.
Said "letter of the 15th of that month" never reached me, as I advised you, by letter of the 14th Sept last, and in my letter of the 14th Sept I requested a copy of your letter "of the 15th" referred to in your letter of the 9th Sept.
A month has passed since I addressed you, and the old lady's heart is made sick by the great delay in procuring a letter from your department. In July last I left papers at your office relating to her claim and we have waited three months in vain for an answer. Shall we ever hear from you?
I am, Resp d Yours
Henry R. Mygatt
J. L. Edwards Esq Comm d Pension War Department Washington City D.C.

Pension Office
March 24 th 1842
Sir,
I have the honor to return you the Petition of Sarah Parker together with her declaration and parol proofs numbered from 1 to 8 inclusive and the evidences furnished by the public archives marked A. B. C. D. E. F. and to refer you to the original letters from this office attached to the petition.
In the adjustment of a pro rata pension the length of the service must be ascertained with precision and in this case no satisfactory proof is furnished as to the commencement and termination of the service. The returns in the State Department show that her late husband in August 1778 is characterized by the letters W. C. ie Wagon Conductor and in September and October of the same year the letters W. C. are attached to his name in one item of the return, and B. Q. M. ie Brigade Quarter Master in another.
The imperfect data above are not remedied by any information from the rolls or records, and hence it is impracticable by any administrative

rules of adjudication to settle her claim in this Office
Please to acknowledge the receipt of the enclosed papers.
I have the honor to be Very respectfully Y r M c V t P c
J L Edwards
Hon. J. W. Andrews House Representatives

Mar 10. 1842
Sarah Parker N.Y.
act 4 July 36
m 29 d 15
4
5521 York St 9th flr
Hon. L.W. Andrews
D.R.

1842 9 th Mar 1842
Dr Sir
The paper enclosed is the one the papers of which I desend a few days since
Your obed Servt
L. McAndrew

Mar 7. 1842
Dear Father
at Mar 8. 1842
J. L. Edwards. Esq. Counselor of Pleas Westminster D.C.
Hon. L. W. Andrews (A.T.R.)

Wf 7th Mar 1842
J. L. Edwards.
Sir We have before the Committee on Rev. Purvis the Petition of Sarah Parker. & are referred to your office for the report. Please furnish me with a copy & your opinion of the case
Maudet Leek LW Andrews

SARAH PARKER.
[To accompany bill H. R. No. 140.]
FEBRUARY 15, 1840.
Mr. SIMONS, from the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, made the following
REPORT:
The Committee on Revolutionary Pensions, to whom was referred the petition of Sarah Parker, of the county of Chenango, and State of New York, ask leave to report:
That the petitioner claims to be entitled to a pension under the act of July 4, 1836, founded upon the services of her late husband (Jotham Parker) as a brigade wagon-master, or conductor of wagons, in the revolutionary war. The evidence in support of this claim, furnished the committee, is as follows:
John Thomas testifies that he enlisted, in the year 1776, in Captain Walker's company, which belonged to General Huntington's brigade; that he was well acquainted with Jotham Parker, who belonged to Captain Watson's company, in the same brigade; that said Parker enlisted as a private, but was afterwards, and before he performed any duty, appointed a brigade wagon-master. Said Parker was with witness at the taking of Ticonderoga, Crown Point, St. John's, and at the hill between Peekskill and Fishkill when the British took Fort Montgomery. Witness swears that said Parker served at least four years as brigade wagon-master, between 1776 and 1781.
Silas Seward swears that he is a pensioner under the act of 1818; that he served in the revolutionary war with Jotham Parker, who was a brigade wagon-master in General Huntington's brigade, and ranked as captain; said Parker served in said capacity for more than three years, between 1776 and 1781. He was at the taking of Ticonderoga, Crown Point, and St. John's, and near Fort Montgomery when it was taken by the British. Deponent was in all of said actions, and saw said Parker there; that, on the 30th day of December, 1779, the said Parker was married to the petitioner, at Norfolk, Connecticut, by the Rev. A. R. Robbins; deponent was present, and saw them married; and he swears that said Parker served in the revolutionary war after he was married.
David Orvis testifies that he enlisted in 1776, in Captain Allen's company, and marched to Ticonderoga; said company belonged to Huntington's brigade. Deponent was well acquainted with Jotham Parker; swears that he enlisted in Captain Watson's company, and served as brigade wagon-master for at least three years in Huntington's brigade, and ranked as captain.

38th Congress 1st Session
The character of these witnesses for truth and veracity is fully established; and, if their testimony is to be relied upon, surely the service of the petitioner's husband, as a brigade wagon-master, for two years, during the revolutionary war, is fully made out. But, in addition to the foregoing parol proof, the committee have been furnished with record evidence, from the State Department, which establishes the fact that the petitioner's husband (Jotham Parker) was a brigade wagon-master during the revolutionary war. The service of the said Jotham Parker being established, the next question for the consideration of the committee is, was he the husband of the petitioner? The family record, which accompanies the petition, shows that the petitioner was married to the said Jotham Parker on the 30th day of December, 1779. Their marriage at that time is also proved by Silas Seward, who was present at the wedding, and states all the particulars. Levi Parker also proves the marriage, and the time it took place. This witness also proves the service of the said Jotham Parker, both before and after his marriage.
The fact is fully established by several witnesses, that the said Jotham Parker died on the 19th of July, 1815, and that the petitioner has remained a widow ever since.
The committee cannot resist the conclusion that the testimony furnished in this case fully entitles the petitioner to the benefit of the act of July 4, 1836; and they herewith report a bill for her relief, according to the provisions of said act.
[Faint, mirrored text from the reverse side of the page, likely bleed-through from the original document.]

Oxford, Chenango Co. NY. Nov. 15th 1841.
Sir,
In the case of Sarah Parker I have your letter of the 11th inst, in which you state "unless she (Parker meaning) can be traced on the records after the marriage. her claim cannot be allowed under the act of July 4th 1836."
In your letter of 13th April 1839 you state. "A letter or order written at any time during the period in which the service in question is alleged to have been rendered recognizing the grade of the claimants husband might be deemed sufficient evidence on that point".
I had supposed from that letter if any record proof was produced of Parker Service in the wagon department proof would be received as to the length of the service. but your letter of the 11th inst. lays down a new rule. It is not probable that any record proof can be produced. tracing Parker Service after the marriage, tho' I presume with much trouble and expense more parole proof might be found - but under your late rule the parole proof would do no good.
As more than two years service is proved before the marriage. will you please inform me by return mail what would be the amount of the

pension under the act of 1838.?
This claim has been long delayed and the extreme want and old age of the widow may induce her to accept a "five year" pension. for if there be further delay she may die without that aid kindly intended for her benefit.
I am respectfully
Your ob t Servant
Henry R. Mygatt
J. L. Edwards Esq
Commissioner of Pensions
War Dep t
Washington City
D.C.

Oxford. Chenango Co. NY. Nov 6. 1841
X
Sir,
I send further proof in the case of Sarah Parker required by your letter of 15th July enclosed in your letter of the 19th Oct last. In your letter of 15th July you state that the proof as to the date of the marriage (30th Dec 1779) is unsatisfactory and you require further proof of service after marriage. The town records of Norfolk Conn & the church records of the same town neither confirm or discredit the alleged marriage. But the marriage is shown by the family record within and the affidavits of Silas Steward who was at the marriage and Levi Parker who saw the parties soon after marriage, and circumstances are stated by both witnesses from which they retain a knowledge of the date of the marriage. That she was in service is proved by Levi Parker, (after marriage) who says that Solomon returned to service after marriage and conclusively proved by Silas Steward who saw him in service after marriage and relates the incident of calling on Parker after the marriage to assist in procuring the discharge of his (Stewards) brother who was a teamster.
It would appear that there can be no longer a doubt as to the marriage, as to the service after the marriage and that Parker was a wagon master (brigade)

a brigade wagon conductor. The second evidence from the State department shows that he was a wagon conductor in 1778. The evidence of the witnesses shows that he was in that service over three years and was called Captain Parker. and I trust that after a delay of more than four years I may soon receive a Certificate granting the pension prayed for.
I am Very Respectfully
Your obed Servt
Kenny R. Mygatt
J. L. Edwards Esq
Comm. of Pensions
War Department.

Deer skin blue & green
16 Sept 1776 12 " " "
See Report No 157 1 Reps. 28 Cong. H. R.
Olson & Son Portland, Oregon

Sir
In case of Sarah Parker, widow Jothan, I beg leave to call your attention to a few facts and suggestions not hitherto presented. It would be recollected that this is the case of the widow and not the person who performed the service and therefore not to be expected to be so precise a statement of facts, and circumstances, as he who performed the service could have given. That Jothan Parker performed three years service, as waggon conductor , there can scarcely be a reasonable doubt.
To take the widows statement in connection with the records and proof, ought of itself to justify, and fortify, the allowance of any claim to Revolutionary Pension, to the period herein claimed.
He is found first as waggon conductor in March 1777. in connection with those, each of whom that have made application for Pension, have proven fully three years service . [See. Case of Bissell Phelps Vt. act 32. John Comins N. H. act 32. Also
* Mrs — Partridge widow of Stephen  State of Conn. act 36. a 38
In this last mentioned case it will be found that Giles Gaylord is recommended for waggon conductor, by Parker, and under Gaylord will be found the names of Transfers  partialled for three years , and is conceded by the office.
Congress by a resolution dated 16. Sept. 1776, and 12 Nov. 1776, directed that the enlistments respecting should be entitled for three years , or the war, and hence the only rational conclusion (without any fact to prove the contrary) to which the mind can arrive is, that Parker served as long as his coadjutors did, and as long as the law permitted he should do. To insist upon proof more rigid than the above, is to require what is notoriously impossible and is in opposition to the intent of the law and in violation to the instructions for its for its execution. See 8 th regulation under the plan  of the 9 th July, 36.
It is a rule of the Office founded upon a just sense of propriety to take as proven, the whole of the period for which an enlistment appears to have been made, and not to require a the Department as party to prove  to prove *
* See Abigail Gillet Pa act 1844, admitted,

a negative even when such proof is omitted , but In matters of Claims of this sort, to adopt any other than a fair, and reasonable, presumption, where the records themselves are known to have been destroyed is to adopt a harshness more unjustifiable in its execution than that of the other extreme.
I respectfully request that this case may not be made an exception to the precedent of the Office, matured by long experience. but that the Claimant may have the benefit of the proof, satisfactorily made to the Service up to March 1780,
Hon L. P. Waldo Secy of Pensions }

6.
Recd
Second Foot
V
Henry R. Mygatt Oxford Ebenang Co NY
Present

General acct of Horses Rec d Deliv d on hand Exch d from 12 to the 31 Aug t 1778.
   From whom Recv d No. To whom deliv d No. With whom Exch d No. By whose order Ex- changed or Del d ? Value.     x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x   Simon Hosmer W.C. - 2 Southam Parker W.C. 2 - - - - - - Wm Smith W.M.G. - - - - -   x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x  
The above is a true Extract from the Original in the Dept. of State.
Thos. W. Dickinson, Keeper of the Archives.
July 14 th 1821.
Original Letters No: 173 - vol. 1. Room No: 11. Dept. of State.

A General acct. of Horses Recd. Delivered Exchanged etc. from the 24 th Sept r to the 11 th Oct r 1778 Inclusive.
   Dates 1778. Of whom Received. No. To whom Deliv d . No. With whom Exchanged. No. By whose Order. Value.     x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x   - - - - Cornelius Oakley H.M. 2 M c Mathews W.C. 3 Sotham Parker W.B. 2 James Thompson B.M. G. ---   - - - - Edw d Kling W.B. 3 Giles Gayland Do. 1 Giles Gayland Do. 7 Do - - - Do ---   - - - - Q.M. G l Quarters - - - 6 Bartholemew York Do. 1 Sotham Parker B.M. G. 2 Do - - Do ---   x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x  
The above is a True Extract from the original in the Dept t of State.
M o W l Dickinson, Keeper of the Archives. July 14 th 1841.
Original Letters No. 173 - vol. 1 Room No. 11. Dept. of State.

Sarah Parker Widow of John Parker
Petition for Pension
Dec. 26. 1843. Referred to the Committee on Revolutionary Pensions
Feb. 15. 1844. Bill 140
J. M. Purdy. 32

To the Congress of the United States. This Petition of Sarah Parker of Coeymans in the County of Columbia and State of New York, Respectfully represents, That herewith are presented the Petition, and accompanying papers, presented on behalf of your Petitioner, to Congress on the 24th January 1842, for a pension, and also herewith are presented the records and papers obtained from the Commissioner of Pensions, in support of your Petitioner's claim.
Your Petitioner further States that on the 24th Day of July, 1842, the Committee of the House, on Revolutionary Pensions, reported a Bill for the relief of your Petitioner, which Bill is herewith presented.
Your Petitioner would State that your Petitioner has not a copy of the Report, accompanying said Bill, but your petitioner begs leave to refer to the Report, on file with the Reports of the last Congress, and also your formal claim.
Your Petitioner also asks your favour of the Documents herewith presented.
Your Petitioner further States that said Bill passed the House at the last Session but was not acted upon by the Committee of the Senate.
Your Petitioner claims her time spending for more than six years, at the War Office, in behalf of Congress, and it is believed that you will find the claim a most just one. Your Petitioner's advanced age, (over 80) extreme poverty, and ill health beg immediate action, and your petitioner begs that justice may not be longer delayed.
Dated December, 20th 1843.
Sarah Parker
by Henry B. Mygatt her Agent.

Certificate of Parker Service,
Recd Proof,
Read
H
This H. Symons.

"Posthumous Parker Cond. 2 of Teans Dr Contra Cr 1778 1778 June 8 To Cash £ 36.0.0 June 27 By Cash rec d 336.0.0 at Fishkill to balance 336.0.0"
"Delivery in the Quarter Master Genl. Dep't Continued 1779 March 1 st Ezra Starr A.D. 2 M.G. 3 papers Ink powder " " Gotham Parker W.M. 29 th Paper"
Comptroller Officer
Hurt / or d T
Cohn n. 7.
July 3 rd 1844
I certify that the first item above is a true and exact copy of an account found on a Ledger Book deposited in this office that belonged to the late Nehemiah Hubbard of Middletown in said State & who was Dist. y  2 nd Muster Genl. and the second item is an exact copy of the heading form of entries in a Book deposited in this office styled 2 nd Muster Genl. Book of Purchases & delivery and which belonged to the said Nehemiah Hubbard A. Barrington, Comptroller

8 Oct '44
Mrs. Phelps
(No 8 th )
4
Left by Mrs. H. C. Lyman of Concord, N.H.

I Mary Phelps of Norfolk in the County of Litchfield & State of Connecticut being Eighty five years of age do depose & say that I was formerly well acquainted with Nathan Parker & his widow Sarah Parker & that they formerly resided in said Norfolk & moved to the State of New York about forty years since & that the said Nathan Parker was reputed to have served as Captain or Colonel or of Teams under Col. Jeremiah Wadsworth who was Quarters Master General in the Revolutionary War & that he served as she believes during the war of the Revolution or so long as the teams were required in the service.
Mary Phelps
State of Connecticut Litchfield County p.
On the 8th day of March 1844 personally appeared the above named Mary Phelps the deponent who signed the foregoing affidavit in my presence & made oath to the truth of the same - before me. And I further certify that the said Mary Phelps is a credible witness.
James C. Swift Justice of Peace
State of Connecticut
Office of Secretary of State.
I certify that James C. Swift Esq. is & on the 8th day of March instant was, a Justice of the Peace within & for the County of Litchfield in said State, duly appointed & commissioned, as appears of record in this Office, and that the above foregoing signature purporting to be his are in my opinion genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said State, this fifteenth day of March A.D. 1844.
N. A. Phelps
Secretary of State

I John Dewell of the town of Norfolk in the County of Litchfield & State of Connecticut of lawful age do depose & say that I was on a visit to the State of New York in the month of February last & called on Sarah Parker the widow of Nathan Parker who formerly resided in said town of Norfolk & that his widow now resides, in the town of Coventry in the County of Chenango & State of New York & is now at the advanced age of 85 years
I had a conversation with the said Sarah Parker on the subject of her claim for a pension for her said husband's services as a conductor of Trains & she informed me that a man by the name of Mygatt of the town of Oxford in the County & State aforesaid, induced her to claim to the Pension Department seven years since & that the said Mygatt claims that he had been to a great expense in prosecuting said claim & that he got a bill passed the House of Representatives in the year 1843 allowing her a pension to commence in 1851 & that so far as she is informed in the matter
She further states that she was very much surprised that the Department should decide on her claim as she is now aged & infirm & dependent on the charity of her daughter & that she is now suffering from the effects of a broken hip bone so that she has been unable to walk for several years past
The deponent would further say that the daughter of said Sarah Parker stated that her mother was very infirm & unable to help herself & that if her mother did not receive her pension soon it would be too late to benefit her as it could not be expected she could live long
John Dewell

State of Connecticut Litchfield County ss.
On the 8th day of March 1874 personally appeared the within named John Dewell the deponent who signed the foregoing affidavit in my presence & made oath to the truth of the same. before me - And I further Certify the said John Dewell is a credible witness
James C. Swift Justice of Peace
8 Mar '74
John Dewell
(No 57)
4
Left by the Rev. Stephen J. Bane. Trust.

Office of The Conn t Historicle Society Hartford Connecticut
March 14 th 1844
I hereby certify that Daniel Wadsworth Esq r . of said Town has presented to the Connecticut Historicle Society Sundry Books and papers that belonged to his deceased Father Col n Jeremiah Wadsworth who was a Quarter Master Gen l in the Revolutionary War and among them are some Books & papers showing the Service of Tennants which appear to have been in his employment. There is a small Book containing a roll of Conductors of Tens & the Tennants that served under them & said Book designates the towns that each conductor of Tens resided at the time of his entering the Service. The following is the heading of Jotham Parkers roll and designating his residence in Norfolk —
“Account of back Rations paid Jotham Parkers Company of Tennants to the 20 th of May 1777” — 1777 March 11 Jotham Parker Captain 12 0. 0 March 13 Josiah Hotchkiss 4. 10. 0 13 Joseph Plumbly Tennants 4. 10. 0 “ Levi Hotchkiss 4. 10. 0 “ Ebenezer Plumbly do 4. 10. 0 “ Caleb Aspinwall 4. 10. 0 “ Nathaniel Munger do 4. 10. 0 “ Nathaniel Teals 4. 10. 0 “ Ruben Munger do 4. 10. 0 “ Sam l Hull for Cook 4. 10. 0 “ Stephen Seward do 4. 10. 0 “ Ebenezer Norton do. 4. 10. 0

Hartford March 20 th 1777
"Received of Jeremiah Wadsworth Esq r . Fifty Seven pounds lawful Money being in full for one month's wages for the above Tenmen & myself"
Signed Jotham Parker
I further certify that among said papers & Books are a number of Blotters or day Books and entries made from time to time of payments made to each conductor. Their rolls of Tenmen are also entered on said Blotters from time to time
The following is an entry of Jotham Parker roll on said Blotter under date of the 8 th of Jan 1778.
"A Pay-roll of Capt. Jotham Parker's Comp y of Tenmen" "from the time of their enlistment till they were paid up" —    "Jotham Parker Cond r  24. 0. 0     "Joseph Plumbly Tenmen  9. 0. 0     "Ebenezer Plumbly do  9. 0. 0     "Nathan Munger do  9. 0. 0     "Reuben Munger do  9. 0. 0     "Stephen Stewart do  9. 0. 0     "Ebenezer Norton do  9. 0. 0  P    "Josiah Hotchkiss do  9. 0. 0     "Levi Hotchkiss do  9. 0. 0  ✓ 18    "Caleb Aspinwall do  9. 0. 0     "Nathan Seals do  9. 0. 0     "Sam l Hull Cook do  9. 1. 0     J. H. Hotchkiss

I further certify that the following are the names of the conductors of Deams on said Book with the name of the town of their residence annexed  March 11 th Jotham Parker of Norfolk " 11 Phineas Merrill of New Hartford " 12 Oziel Bingham of Litchfield " 20 Asahel Smith of Suffield " William Boland of Sharon " 20 Giles Gaylord of Norfolk " 20 Samuel Tibbals of Norfolk " 12 Isaac Goodrich of Glastonbury " 25 Gerdon Wadsworth of Hartford " 31 Thomas Gilbert of Canaan " 11 Geyer Seymour of Hartford " 6 Joseph Stephen Morris of Bridgeport Ridgefield " 28 Andrew Wakeman of Fairfield " 3 Daniel Jones of East Haddam May 16 David Force of Pomfret
I further certify that the following entries appear on a Ledger presented by the said Wadsworth
1778 Jotham Parker May 20 To Sundries p r day Book £ 9. 0.0 1779 March 11 " To Cash To acct. for p r Rec d 4.10.0
Chas. Hoxie, Rec. Secy Connecticut Historical Society

State of Connecticut Office of Secretary of State.
I certify that James Hosmer Cogg, who has signed the foregoing certificate, is the Recording Secretary of the Connecticut Historical Society, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine. I further certify that I have compared the foregoing extracts with the original entries in the said books of account & find them to be true & correct; and that the antiquated appearance of the said books, the paper & writing thereon, give undoubted evidence of their being authentic & genuine.
L
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of the said State this 14 th day of March A D 1844.
N. A. Phelps Secretary of State
Rec d Proof 2
Rec d

Sen. Ch.
May 25. 1844
J. L. Edwards Esq.
Commrs
Sir, A petition of Sarah Parker widow of Jonathan Parker is before the Committee on Pensions. Among the papers is a letter from you of July 15. 1841 to H. N. Mygatt Esq her agent, stating that "the extracts from the Washington papers in the State Dep't are sufficient to show that her late husband was a Wagon conductor in 1778" &c - Is there a service for which he would have been entitled to a pension, provided the length of term was suff- icient, at what rate per month? Can the widow claim under the act of 1832 provided the service terminated before marriage?
Very Resp't
Yours ob't serv't
G. Evans

Pension Office, May 27. 1844
Sir:
In answer to your letter of the 25 th inst. I have the honor to inform you that the widow of Jotham Parkin, deceased, would be entitled to a pension on account of his service as a Wagon Conductor, provided it can be shown that he served at least six months. The pay per month in that grade would be $20 for each month's service, which would amount to $480 per annum for two years service, and less in proportion for less than that period of service. If the evidence be satisfactory that the marriage took place before the termination of the service, the case would be embraced by the act of July 4. 1836; and if subsequently thereto, and prior to the year 1794, she would be entitled under the law of July 7. 1838.
I have the honor to be, Very respectfully Your obt servant, J L Edwards
Hon. George Evans, Senate U States.

Washington June 20 th 1832
J. L. Eames Esq Com ee of Pensions
Dr Sir
Allow me
to call your attention to the case of Sarah Parker, widow of Nathan Parker, about which I spoke to you last winter. The additional evidence I now forward you, will I believe be found sufficient to establish the claim. The papers are at the Room of the Clerk of the House of N. R. I should be glad to hear from you in relation to this case as soon as you can make it convenient.
Very Respectfully
Your obedt Servt
Thos H. Seymour

city and county of New York
William A. Martin being duly sworn saith that he is upwards of fifty years of age and resides in the town of Coventry in the county of the Hudson and State of New York. That he left said town of Coventry last week for said city of New York and that he has recently seen said Sarah Parker who is an applicant to Congress for a pension and that she lives with a brother in law of deponent within one mile of deponent's residence and that when deponent left home said Sarah was living and as deponent believes is now living and that from business and the infirmities of age her health is poor, but that her mind is good as most persons of her age.
That Henry R. Mygatt of Asford in said Columbia county was many years since employed by her to procure her pension and still has charge of her claim and that deponent has heard said Sarah Parker son in law express his belief that said Henry R. Mygatt would give faithful attention to her claim subscribed and sworn to. W. A. Martin June 5th 1874. Before me John C. Wright State Senator

ity and County of New York
Henry H. Mygatt being duly sworn, Saith that he resides in Oxford in Chenango County and State of New York and that Sarah Parker who is an applicant for a pension resides in the town of Coventry in Said County several miles distant from deponent.
That deponent drew the petition of Said Sarah Parker for a pension, at the request of Said Sarah and that deponent has since her first application for a pension had charge of the same and is fully acquainted with all the proceedings had in relation thereto and that deponent signed her petition to Congress for a pension as her Agent and at her request.
That deponent has for several years given some attention to the pension business and has procured several pensions and that deponent never made a bargain with Said Sarah or any other applicant for a pension, by which deponent was or is to receive any share of their or her said pension except that deponent has always promised and endeavored to give faithful attention to all cases left in his charge with the expectation that deponent would receive a reasonable compensation for his services and that he has not made any bargain with Said Mrs Parker other than he may have said to her that he would take charge of her

claim for a reasonable compensation,
That deponent has received several letters from different persons who have offered their services to prosecute said claim, one for twenty five per cent and others for less than that amount and that on behalf of Mrs Parker such offers have been declined, as this deponent was informed said Senate that he believed her claim just.
Henry R. Mygatt
Subscribed and sworn to June 5th 1844 before me John C. Coughlin State Senator
My knowledge of Mr. Mygatt personally, and of his family and connections, induce me to place entire confidence in his affidavit, and I think it, and the affidavit of Mr. Morton which I found with this, it appears to me should remove the suspicions which I thought justly surrounded Mrs. Parker's case. I do not doubt that these affidavits have been prepared and sent, in consequence of a letter I wrote in answer from me to Mr. Mygatt, in which I stated the suspicious circumstances as I thought them, which attached to this case.
Silas Wright
Dated Washington 7 June 1844.

Wadsworth July 6 th 1841
J. L. Edwards Esq r Comm r Pensions
Dear Sir
Herewith I send you additional proof in the case of the Widows of Phineas Merrill, from the Wadsworth papers, by which it will be seen, that the account closes the 11 th of May 1779. The Wadsworth papers, prove the commencement of Merrill's service in March 1777, as conductor, or Captain of Trains, making a period of over two years; consequently, I suppose, the Widow would be entitled to a full pension, for the services of her husband, as a conductor of Trains. I should be glad to have you dispose of this case as soon as you can conveniently. Also, will you please forward me a certifi- -cate in the case of the Widow of Anthony Burnet, for an increase of pension for his services as a Surgeon. Additional Additional proof I forward with this to be filed with the papers of Sarah Widow of Setham Parker, to which your attention is respectfully requir- -ed. The Widow is very poor, and if her claim could be allowed, it would

be a great relief to her.
Respectfully
Yours truly
Th. H. Ferguson

S. h '44
11.395
Sarah Parker
N.Y. No 8
act 7-July 38.
adm
Zion Wagon
Conductor
480
also act March 43 44-480.
n. act 1843 6004
" " 1844. 190
K
Henry
R. J. Pease Esq.
Present

State of New York } County of Chenango } ss.
On this ninth day of September in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty four personally appeared before Robert Monell Circuit Judge of Sixth Circuit In the County and State aforesaid Sarah Parker a resident of the Town of Coventry in the County and State aforesaid aged eighty seven years who being duly sworn according to law doth on her Oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7th. 1834 entitled an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows - That she is the Widow of Jotham Parker who was a conductor or Captain of teams in the Revolutionary War as appears from the papers and records of Col. Jeremiah Wadsworth late of Hartford in the State of Connecticut and who was Lt Master General in said War and also from the books and records of Nehemiah Hubbard late of Middletown in said State and who was Dpty Quarter Master General acting under said Col Wadsworth. She further declares that she was Married to the said Jotham Parker.

On the 30th day of December 1779 that her Husband the aforesaid Jotham Parker died on the 19th day of July in the year 1815 That she was Not Married to him prior to his leaving the service but the Marriage took place previous to the first of January Seventeen Hundred and Ninety four viz at the time above written
Sarah Parker
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above mentioned and I certify Satisfaction any evidence has been exhibited before me that the declarant is the widow of Jotham Parker who formerly resided in the Town of Norfolk in Litchfield County and estate of Connecticut and who was reported to be a Conductor of Teams in the Revolutionary war. and I further certify that the declarant is now debilitated by old age, and unable to walk, and not strong or health enough to appear in Open Court to make her declaration. She resides about eighteen Miles from the place where the Court are held; and therefore her declaration is taken before me, out of Court Stobbs, Clerk Circuit Judge of the Superior Judicial Court

W. J. Pease
J. L. Edwards Esq. Comm n of Pensions Washington
Mr. Oct 24 '44

Hartford Oct 15 1877
J. H. Edwards Esq
Dr Sir
I have requested Sen L. T. Pierce of this City to call upon you in relation to the case of Sarah Parker widow of Nathan Parker. The original application for a pension is on file at the office of the Clerk of the House of Representatives. Prior to leaving Washington I left with you additional proof, and as I thought conclusive, in the Parker case. Not long since I forwarded to your address a certificate of Sarah Parker, requesting that the papers in possession of the Clerk, might be given up to me. I suppose, that as the application has once been before you for examination, and rejected, and since rejected by the Senate, you can send for the papers at any time. Not wishing to be troubled with them myself, further than to see that justice is done to the widow, I hereby authorize Judge Pierce to attend to the

application case, and receive the pension certificate in the event of a favorable decision.
Very Respectfully
Respectfully
Thos W Symons

Washington, January 11. 1845.
Hon ble L. D. Edwards
Sir,
I wish to obtain an abstract or copy of the evidence upon which a pension was granted during the vacation to Sarah Parker, of Chenango Co., New York, and the name of the Agent to whom the certificate was delivered. I shall thank you to have them furnished at your earliest convenience. I have the honor to be very respectfully, Sir,
S. M. Pugh

5
Henry R. Mygatt Esq Oxford W. U.

State of New York
Chenango County ss On this 1845 ninth day of October before me appeared Sarah Parker widow of Jonathan Parker deceased, who being duly sworn Saith that she resides in Coventry in said County and is a pensioner at the rate of $400 per year and she claims an increase of said pension on the ground that she is informed and believes true that her said husband was a Brigade Quarters Master for more than two years during the Revolution and she claims that said pension should be allowed her from March 4. 1831 deducting therefrom the amount already received by her.
Subscribed and sworn to
STATE OF NEW YORK, Chenango County Clerk's Office.
} ss.
I,
John Sathan CLERK OF SAID County, do hereby certify, That E. H. Waters whose name is subscribed to the certificate of the proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument, and thereon written, was at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, a Justice of the peace in and for said county of Chenango, dwelling in the 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 Justice and verily believe that the signature to the
said certificate of proof or acknowledgment is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said county, the 13 th day of October A. D. 1845.
John Sathan Clerk.

State of New York
Chenango County ss On this 10th day of October 1845 before me appeared Sarah Parker widow of Jonathan Parker deceased, who being duly sworn Saith that she resides in Coventry in said County and is a pensioner at the rate of $400 per year and she claims an increase of said pension on the ground that she is informed and believes true that her said husband was a Brigade Quarters Master for more than two years during the Revolution and she claims that said pension should be allowed her from March 4. 1831 deducting therefrom the amount already received by her.
Subscribed and sworn to the day and year aforesaid Before me
Sarah Parker
E. G. Waters Justice of the Peace

X Oxford, Chenango Co. N.Y. October 14. 1845
Sir,
I am requested by Sarah Parker of Coventry in Chenango County to again present her claim to your consideration,
In October last she was allowed a pension at rate $1000 per annum for her husband's service as Wagon Conductor, under act July 7. 1838 and subsequent acts.
Her original petition under act July 4. 1836 claimed a pension for her husband's services as a brigade wagon master or Conductor of teams and the evidence on file of John Thomas Silas Seward and David Orvis proves him to have served as Captain. The evidence which I filed with you from the Washington papers in the State Department establish him to have been a Wagon Conductor and Brigade Quarters marked by abbreviations "WC" & "BQ M". I am informed that these papers are now indexed. They probably show further evidence. Can you examine them? The evidence filed of Silas Seward and Sir Parker show service rendered after the marriage, and said Seward was at the marriage.
Will you give your earliest examination and reply. Within I send Mrs Parker affidavit and present claim. I have the honor to be
Your ob't Ser Henry L. Mygatt,
J. L. Edwards Esq
Comd. of Pioneers
War Department,

Oxford Chenango Co NY Nov 29. 1845
Sir:
In your letter to me of the 12th inst in reply to "the application of Sarah Parker for a pension under the act of July 4th 1836 at an increased rate of $6 00 per annum. Upon the exhibits upon which her pension has been adjusted under the act of 7th July 1838" you state that the same "has been examined and rejected".
You will please send to me a copy of the exhibits upon which her pension was adjusted and at the same time inform me whether her claim for a pension under the act of July 4th 1836 is rejected on the ground that there is no record evidence of service after marriage the 30th December 1779.
Your early reply is respectfully requested. I am Your obt Servt
Henry R. Mygatt.
J. L. Edwards Esq Commissioner of Pensions.

State of New York. county of Chemango ft.
I, Nelson Pellett, clerk of the Supreme Court of the State of New York holden at Norwich in and for said State do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence had been exhibited to said Court, that Sarah Parker was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of four hundred and eighty dollars per year, was a resident of the county of Chemango and State of New York, and died in the town of Coventry in said county of Chemango and State of New York, in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty seven, on the fifteenth day of November of said year; that she left three children only, whose names are, Hannah Beardslee, Sally Mather and Emily Mervin; and that each of them are over twenty one years of age.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office, at Norwich in said county of Chemango, this the twenty eighth day of December in the year 1849.
A Purdy Dep Clerk of Chemango County

Oxford Ulverston Co. N.Y.
December 29. 1849
J. L. Edwards Esq. (born of Pendleton) Sir.
The pension of Sarah Parker since deceased, of this Co. was adjusted at $480. per annum. I have been recently informed that from recent constructions given in like cases at your office, that the pension should have been $600. instead of $480. per annum.
The Washington State papers prove that her husband was not only a wagon conductor, but also a brigade quarter master.
I may be mis-informed in the premises, but am desired by her children to request your review of this case.
Within you have proof of death and the names of the children on whose behalf I now address you. I have the honor to be Yours Very resp'tly Henry R. Mygatt.

Department of State, Washington, 10. June, 1850.
Sir;
In answer to your letter of the 6 th ult. o , I have the honour to state, that the only evidence of the service of Nathan Parker, as a Wagon Conductor and a Brigade Quarters Master, which appears to be in the possession of this Department, is as follows:
In a "General Account of horses delivered & exchanged, &c, from the 24 th of September to the 11 th of October, 1778, inclusive," he is named as a Wagon Conductor and a Brigade Quarters Master .
In a "Return of Wagon Horses employed in the Wagon Department, August 29 th 1778," he is named as a Wagon Conductor.
In an "Account of Horses received, &c, from the 12 th to the 31 st of August 1778," he

he is named as a Wagon conductor.
The information, requested in your letters of the 6 th and 7 th ult o , respecting the military service of Isaac Hotchkiss, Moses Pigeon and Jacob Morris, appears not to be in the possession of this Department.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient servant, J. M. Blagden
Hon: J. Meacham, House of Representatives.

June 12 57
Sir
Encl: you will find proof showing the services of Jonathan Patten, a Ensign & Master, in addition to that of Maj. Comdr.
The papers of Sarah, the widow of New York for an inuendo are on file. She was married under the Act of 1838, at $480. was inscribed upon the New York Roll.
Very Respectfully H. H. Sylvester
Col. Evans

POWER OF ATTORNEY—Revolutionary Pension Claims.
Know all Men by these Presents, That I, Emily P. Mervin, wife of Joseph B. Mervin, and Daughter of Sarah Parker, deceased, who was the Widow, of Jonathan Parker, and also a Pensioner of the United States hereby constitute and appoint Samuel A. Pugh, of Washington City v of the District of Columbia my true and lawful Agent and Attorney, to prosecute the Claim of Sarah Parker, deceased for any amount of Revolutionary Pension, or Increase of Pension, that may be due; and I hereby authorize my said Agent to examine all the papers and documents in relation to said claim, on file in the Departments at Washington City, or elsewhere; to file additional evidence or arguments; and to receive the Certificate which may be issued for said Claim, which Certificate I wish made payable to myself .
to appoint one or more substitutes under him for the purposes herein expressed; and to do all things that I might or could do were I personally present. Hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said Attorney and Agent shall lawfully do in the premises, hereby revoking all other Powers made in the premises
WITNESS my hand and Seal this 26 th day of July A. D., 1852.
Signed and Sealed in the presence of } Marion Phelps. } Thos B. Phelps
Emily P. Mervin Joseph B. Mervin
STATE OF Connecticut } COUNTY OF Litchfield } ss: November 26 July, 1852
On this twenty sixth day of July A. D. 1852 before me, the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, personally appeared Emily P. Mervin & Joseph B. Mervin and acknowledged the foregoing Power, of Attorney to be the act and deed, for the purposes therein mentioned.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand, } the day and year aforesaid. }
Thos B. Phelps
J. Peace.

Claim of Act of
STATE OF COUNTY
} ss.
Be it known, That on this
day of _____ A. D., eighteen hundred and fifty _____, before the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared _____ a resident of _____ in said County, and made oath according to law that he is the
who was a Revolutionary Pensioner
at the rate of _____ Dollars per annum; that _____ has been informed that the said Pension ought to be increased; that he is directly interested as a claimant in said Pension, and makes this affidavit to be filed with such additional evidence or arguments as my Agent may use in prosecuting said claim.
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid, before me. } J. Peace.
Justice of the Peace, in and for said County do hereby certify that _____ who executed the foregoing paper is a respectable resident of this County, and is, I believe, directly interested in said claim as therein set forth.
J. Peace.
C. H. Pugh
Sarah Parker wid of J. H. H. N.Y. Oct. 1850 copy 185843444
I, _____ Clerk of the _____ Court in the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that _____ before whom the foregoing papers were executed, was, at the date of the same, a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly authorized by law to administer oaths; and the name thereunto subscribed, is _____ signature.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed my official Seal, this _____ day of A. D. 185_____
Clerk.

Copy.
Pension Office, November 25, 1853.
Sir,
I have carefully examined the application of Sarah Parker, widow of Jotham Parker, deceased, late of the State of New York, with a view to the claim of its being allowed under the act of July 4, 1836.
This claim is based upon the affidavits of Levi Parker, John Thomas, and Silus Seward, and the declarations of the claimant. It seems to be clearly proved that Sarah and Jotham were married on the 30 th day of December, 1779; and the only question is, did Jotham render any service in the army of the revolution after that date?
Levi Parker, on the 25 th day of October, 1841, after describing the death of his own father, who was killed July 5 th 1779, says, "he recollects that in the winter after deponent's father's death, said Jotham with his wife Sarah visited deponent's mother's

family, and it was then said that they had been married, and it was their first marriage visit to his mother's family " * * *
"That in the summer of 1779, before deponent's father's death, said Jotham was at deponent's father's house and said he was a captain of teams or wagon master in the army , which deponent believes true, and that after buying a yoke of oxen of deponent's father in 1779, he left for the army, and deponent well recollects that after his father's death the said Jotham was at deponent's mother's house with his wife as aforesaid, and deponent has been and in the revolution was informed that after said marriage said Jotham returned to the army and was a Brigade Wagon-Master and called Captain, and that when he was married as aforesaid said Jotham was absent on a furlough and afterwards returned to the army."
A slight examination of the foregoing extract will show that the witness does not pretend to speak from personal

knowledge so far as his testimony relates to the service of Jotham after his marriage. His language is, " deponent has been and in the revolution was informed ", &c. He relates incidents of his own knowledge that happened before the marriage, and the visit to his mother soon after; but so far as service of Jotham in the Army is concerned after Dec. 30, 1779, he speaks only from information from others. The fact of service after marriage is not therefore established by this witness.
John Thomas on, the 14 th day of July, 1838, says substantially that he enlisted in 1776, as a private in a company commanded by Joseph Walker, and belonged to the Brigade commanded by General Huntington, and to the same regiment to which Captain Silas Watson belonged; that Jotham Parker belonged to said Watson's company; that he enlisted as a private, but was, during the campaign, appointed and served as Brigade Wagon Master. He then

narrates several incidents that took place before the year 1780, and says, "I was well acquainted with Parker, and know that he served for a period of four years in the service of the United States and as Brigade Wagon Master, and I think he served longer than I have stated; the period was from 1776 to 1781."
This witness speaks of a service of four years , and this is substantially true, if Jotham served from early in the year 1776, to the last of December 1779, which he might have done and his service have ceased before his marriage. But it may be said that the witness uses this language; "I think he served longer than I have stated; the period was from 1776 to 1781." Now, if the witness had given us the reason for his thoughts, and any facts that enabled him to fix the termination of this service in 1781, this language might have more weight with us; but left in this loose manner it cannot be regarded sufficient

to warrant the belief that he knew the service continued to the latter date. If he had named one incident connected with the service in the year 1780, and associated Parker's service with that incident, his testimony would have borne directly upon the point to be established, but as it is, while it sustains service during the period he evidently intended it should cover, to wit, four years, yet it does not sustain any service in the year 1780.
Silas Seward, the brother of the claimant, has given three depositions.
The first deposition is dated Sept r 1, 1837. In this deposition he says, "that in 1776, said Parker enlisted into Captain Titus Watson's Company and General Huntington's Brigade and was a Wagon master of said Brigade, and he thinks ranked as Captain and that he served most of the time from 1776 to 1781." He then goes on to describe incidents connected with this service in which he took part with said Parker, and con-

cludes by saying, "this deponent frequently saw the said Parker in service during the revolutionary war, and has no doubt that he was in active service in the rank aforesaid more than three years ."
His second deposition is dated October 29. 1821. In this deposition he gives a reason for remembering the date of his sister's marriage, to wit, that he was himself discharged from service in December 1780, about one year after his said sister's marriage; and he also gives a reason for believing the said Jotham served until 1781, to wit, "that deponent's brother Stephen Stewart was a teamster under said Parker in service, and that said Stephen is now dead, and that late in summer or early in the fall of 1780, said Stephen was sick in the army and that deponent with the assistance of said Jotham Parker got him the said Stephen released from the service. That deponent applied to said Jotham to assist him to get his brother discharged, and that said Jotham was then a Brigade

Wagon Master in service and called Captain Parker, and that deponent called on said Parker to assist him as he was his brother- in law, having married his sister as afore- said, and that deponent well recollects that his said brother was discharged after said marriage, and that said brother was at Peekskill when discharged from service when sick as aforesaid." He then reiterates his former testimony by saying "that said Jotham Parker was a conductor of teams as Brigade Wagon Master, and in active service from 1777 until 1781, and was in active service in said office for more than three years as was said and understood in said Parker family during said time and that deponent frequently saw him in service during said time." If this dep- osition stood alone, it would tend to prove service of Jotham Parker in the year 1780, when the brother of deponent is said to have been sick and discharged from Jotham's Company on account of said sick-

ness. But it seems the deponent was not satisfied with the matter of this deposition, and hence we find him on the 24 th day of November, 1841, in less than four weeks after this deposition was taken, making an explanatory deposition in the following words:
"Silus Seward of Sanford in said county of Broome and State of New York, aged eighty-one years, being duly sworn saith in addition to the affidavits heretofore made by him on the application of his sister Sarah Parker of Chenango county in New York, for a pension that before the marriage of Jotham Parker to his said sister in 1779, (December) in Norfolk, Connecticut, he was well acquainted with said Jotham Parker. That this deponent well recollects and knows that said Jotham Parker was absent in active service as a conductor of teams as a Brigade Wagon master at least two years and six months in the years 1777, 1778, and 1779, before his marriage to deponent's sister, and that he ranked as Captain

and was called Captain Parker and that deponent frequently saw him in service during said years." This is the last deposition given by Seward and was given for some purpose. It certainly could not have been given to prove service before marriage merely, for in all his depositions he is positive the service commenced in 1776, or 1777. It purports to have been given "in addition to the affidavits heretofore made by him." But it adds nothing to the length of Parker's service. Heretofore he has made that service commence in 1776, and end in 1781. But it does add to the precision and positiveness of the deponent's testimony. He now speaks of what he " well recollects and knows " and this recollection and knowledge is limited to the three years next before the marriage . He is silent in regard to the service in 1780. Now, if he was positive, when he gave this last deposition, that Jotham served in 1780, why does he not state it? If it is

said he had testified to the service after the marriage before, the answer is that he had also testified to the service prior to the marriage. What need of affirmation under such positive assurances as to the service before 1780? It was the service after that date that was most important. It cannot be doubted that his feelings at least would prompt him to tell the whole truth, if that would favor the interest of the party for whom he was testifying. Is it not therefore fair to presume that, in this deposition, the deponent intended to define with precision what he meant in his former affidavits, and that he only intended to speak from his own knowledge of the service of Parker before 1780? This is the only construction I can give the language of the three affidavits, and in this construction I am aided by the narrative of his services in his own declaration for a pension. This view also harmonizes with the deposition of David Oweis, also filed in this case, and dated July 16, 1838.

Orris says that he enlisted in 1776 under captain Newman Allen; that he deponent was well acquainted with Jotham Parker of Norfolk, and knew that he enlisted in Captain Watson's company in the year 1776; that Parker served as Brigade Wagon Master in General Huntington's Brigade and ranked as Captain "and that said Parker served to the best of my (his) recollection about three years in the service of the United States. " Now when it is known that Orris and Parker lived in the same County, it will be seen that Orris had the means of knowing how long Parker served, and he says it was about three years. This service must have ended before December 30, 1779.
Sarah Parker the claimant made her first declaration on the 26 th day of August, 1837. In this she makes the following allegations: "That she is the widow of Jotham Parker who was a wagon master in the war of the revolution,

that before deponent was married to him, and she thinks in 1776, he enlisted in Norfolk in the State of Connecticut under Captain Titus Watson and was a Brigade wagon-master and served in General Huntington's Regiment or Brigade from the time he enlisted most of the time until 1781, and deponent thinks he ranked as Captain, and as deponent believes he served in the capacity aforesaid at least three years and she thinks most of the time from 1776 to 1781; that he was at the taking of Ticonderoga, and at the taking of Fort Montgomery" This is every word she says in relation to the service of her husband. She says, "she thinks he served most of the time from 1776 to 1781." She " believes he served three years. " In this declaration she does not say she knows that her husband rendered service after Dec. 30, 1779. She was in a condition to know this fact if it existed. Had her husband left her alone during the first year of

their relation as husband and wife, and been exposed to the dangers and hardships of the tented field, she would be very likely to remember the incident as well as the date of their marriage. She speaks of the latter but she says nothing of the lone hours during which she mourned over husband's absence. It is true she says she thinks he served most of the time until 1781. But she does not relate any incident of that service after her destinies were united to his. Nor does she in any supplemental declaration make any mention of her own knowledge of any one event connected with the service of her husband after her marriage. But in a declaration made by her on the 9 th day of September 1844, she uses the following language: "She further declares that she was married to the said Jotham Parker on the 30 th day of December 1779; that her husband, the aforesaid Jotham Parker, died

on the 19 th day of July in the year 1815. 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, to wit, at the time above written." Here we have her positive declaration under oath, that she was not married to her hus- band before he left the service , and it would seem that this should be conclu- sive on this point. It must be remem- bered that she does not swear anywhere, that her husband did serve after marriage, while here she swears positively that he did not. But it may be said that she was advised to make her declaration under the act of July 7, 1838, and that this allegation was in the form prescribed under that act. It is true, this office, in a letter dated December 11, 1844, in- formed her that her claim might be allowed under the act of July 7, 1838, but it did not inform her that she must state a fact that did not exist to entitle

her to a pension. If she was fully conscious at the time she made her second declaration that her husband did serve after marriage, she was guilty of perjury in swearing to that declaration. But as I can see no evidence that she even suspected any such service, I have no occasion to cast any shade upon her reputation.
Jotham Parker performed the duty for which this pension is claimed, in the team service of Connecticut. There is a tolerable fair record of that service from 1777 to 1781 to be found on the Wadsworth's Books in the Connecticut Historical Society of Hartford, Connecticut, and on the Hubbard Books, in the possession of parties in Massachusetts, copious extracts from which we now have in this office. These books have been examined and while they give evidence of Jotham Parker's service as Conductor of Teams until 1779, they do not show any evidence of his service

after December 30, of that year. The record evidence therefore harmonizes with our view of the parol evidence and tends to the same conclusion. I am therefore clearly of the opinion that the evidence in this case does not sustain the claim now made, and that Jotham Parker did not render any service in the army of the revolution after the 30 th day of December 1779. The claim for an allowance under the act of July 4, 1836, is therefore rejected.
I remain Yours, &c,
L. J. Waldo,
Commissioner.
J. F. C. Triplet, Esq., Present.

Nov. 3, 1853.
Set in case
of Sarah
Parker
A. C. D. R. L. M.
Present
Henry Purvis
 14 00  20   28 00 

Washington, Nov 3. 1883
Sir,
I ask that the case of Sarah Parker may be placed under the Act of 1836 instead of 1858 under which it now stands.
The widow in 1857 swore to the fact of her service after her marriage to him, which is found to have occurred Dec 30. 1779.
John Thomas swears that Parker served from 1776 to 1781.
Niklas Leonard swears that he knew of the marriage at the time of its occurrence, he being the claimant's brother; that Parker was then Wagon Master; that some time afterwards a brother of the witness being ill in camp he went

The other to obtain his release, found Parker still acting as M. A. and by his aid obtained his brother's release.
Levi Parker swears that Parker remained after his marriage and details circumstances by which he is enabled to recollect the fact.
The record, as far as it goes, corroborates what the witnesses say. It shows Parker in service as M. C. in '77 and as M. M. in '78 or '79.
It is impossible that the record or the witnesses could be mistaken as to the rendition of service after the marriage; if it was not so they committed voluntary perjury. And the only question in the case is whether perjury shall be presumed against all their portions, when their

is not a fact to shake their cred-
Very Resp'y
Yr affec son J. H. C. Finsen

Pension Office, Nov. 7 th 1833.
Sir.
Yours of 3 rd Nov. 1833, claiming an increase of pension in the case of Sarah Parker dec d widow of Jotham, of New York, has been received. This claim has been subjected to repeated and critical examinations, as well by the Officers of this Department, as by a Committee of Congress, resulting in each case in a refusal to admit it under Act 4 th July 1836. It is conceded that the marriage of Jotham and Sarah took place in December 1779, but the difficulty has been to establish the fact, that he performed services after that date. The certificate of the Comptroller of Connecticut proves no later services than those of 11 th March 1779; but it is urged that his services till 1781, are clearly established by parol evidence which was exhibited before this Office at the time of the admission of the claim under Act 7 th July 1838. The record shews his services as

Wagon Master up to the 11 th of March 1879, but proves nothing further for him in that or any other capacity. The failure then of the record to prove his further services, creates a strong presumption that he never performed them; and the only ground upon which it could be supposed he rendered more than is therein exhibited, would be satisfactory proof that there is no further record; and the concurrent testimony of witnesses who were in a position to know what they assert. No record of the service after 1879 appears, and the witnesses but fully sustain the assertion that it lasted any later. They all concur that he served from 1876 to 1881, but they give no satisfactory reason for fixing these dates. John Thomas declares Gotham acted as Brigade Wagon Master , but Silas Seward and Levi Parker say he acted as a Wagon Master . Which is to be believed? The entire statement of Seward is discredited by his own application for a

pension, in which he shews no services under Capt. Titus Watson at a later period than February 1777; and he did not serve from that period till the year 1780, when he entered a Regiment commanded by Major Woodbridge. John Thomas declares he enlisted in 1776, but his declaration shews he did not enter till May 1777. With these facts, I am of opinion that the testimony of Parker, Seward and Thomas, fails to sus- tain the claim for increase under the Act of July 4 th 1836, and that it ought not to be allowed.
Very Respectfully
Commissioner.
H. H. C. (W) Knight, Esq. Present.
July 10

The annexed brief was made at the instance of Judge Waldo.
On a previous occasion I had taken the ground that where a commissioned Officer had engaged to serve for a specific length of time, and the record evidence showed him in service under that engagement, it was to be presumed, in the absence of a record to the contrary, that he had served for the entire period of his engagement. In this opinion I was overruled by Judge Waldo. If such had not been the case, my conclusion would have been the opposite of what it was.
It seems to me that my view of the legal presumption which should be obtain in such cases is sustained by the decisions of the Supreme Court of Va., in relation to half-pay, referred to in the letter of Judge Waldo to J. N. Coffin, of Apr 23 d 1853
March 14 th , 1856.
Dodgp

Jotham Parker was appointed Waggon Coudr for 3 years from March 11 th 1777.
The rolls and documents show him in service in the years 1777-8 and 9. but not in 1780.
He was married Decr 30. 1779.
Silas Seward testified that himself left the service in 1780-(as also stated in his declaration) That deponent was discharged in Decr '80. (This was a 6 mos tour). That late in the summer or early in the fall of '80 deponent's brother, Stephen, a member of Parker's company of teamster's, was sick, and deponent applied to Parker as his brother-in-law, to aid in procuring his discharge, which was accomplished. Well recollects this was after the marriage. That Parker continued in active service until 1781.
Levi Parker testified that Jotham, as he is and was informed during the war, came home on a furlough to get married and afterwards returned to the army.
John Thomas testified that himself entered service in 1776, & that Jotham entered service in the same

Regt under another captain and was appointed Waggon Master - That he saw Parker at the times of the battles &c at Ticonderoga, Crown Point, St Johns and Ft Montgomery - (all of which occurred before 1780) - Knows that he served four years, & thinks longer - "the period was from 1776 to 1781."
Several other witnesses testify that he served "between" 1776 or 7- and '81.
Stephen Parker Seward was enlisted for 3 yrs under Jotham Parker on the 13 th of March 1777- and his term had expired before the summer of 1780-
The only positive testimony of service after marriage is that of Silas Seward. He says nothing of a furlough. The reason given for his recollection of the date of Stephen's discharge is that he applied to Parker as his brother-in-law.
If this had occurred the summer before the marriage would not his claims on Parker as the accepted suitor of his sister have been about as strong? It seems very likely that after so long a lapse of time this may be the rational explanation. There is no evidence of a re-enlistment.
It is by no means a necessary conclusion that Parker served out the full term of his enlistment. Few of those who entered service when he did, continued through the three years.
I should not admit under the act of 1836-

let
Hon John Dick,
Heaven of Reps,
Jan 30 1856.

St. of Reps, July 3, 1855.
Sir:
I have to ask an examination of the case of Sarah Parker, N. Y. act 1838.
I contend she is entitled under that of 1836, to bring her under which it is necessary that her husband should have served after his marriage with her.
The record shows that this marriage occurred Decr. 30. 1779. Now if Jonathan was in service one day after that, the widow must be allowed under 4 July, 1836.
Of his having served at least two years, no question is made; of his having served 3 , no reasonable man can doubt. The claimant has, with great diligence, traced up the record of his service, and so long as there is any record at all, so long we find him continued as W. M. When the records fail, we must, of course, rely upon parole proof. And of this description of evidence, it is impossible to produce stronger or more convincing than is done in this case. Not only do half a dozen witnesses swear

positively to his having served at least 3 years, (and the record shows him commencing on the 11 th Feb., 1777,) but it has recently been certified by the Secretary of State of the U. S. that all the regiments enlisted in 1777 were engaged for the term of 3 years. If then, the positive oaths of unimpeached witnesses, swearing to facts which they show themselves in a condition to be acquainted with, and their accuracy in relating which they fortify by reference to collateral circumstances, were not before sufficient, surely it must be conclusion when we show that Parker enlisted in 1777, (Feb.) and that all who went into service in that year did actually enter for 3 years. In fact, at that time no engagement for a less term than 3 years could be made in the Continental Army, for Congress, on the 16 th Sep. 1776, required all enlistments to be for the war, and on the 12 th Nov. 1776, so far relaxed this as to admit enlistments for the war or for 3 years, but for no shorter period. In no case any engagement made for a shorter term

until long after Feb '77, Rejoinments in '78 & '79 being raised for 6 & 9 months for particular emergencies -
Very Respectfully
John Dick M.L.

Sarah Parker Sotham - N.Y. Oct 1843
S

Washington, Oct 30. 1855.
Sir:
In the case of Parker, widow of Latham, it is desirable to examine the papers of their pensioners who served under a withdrawal. A list of them will be found in a paper book in your office, which is under the charge of Col. Miles. May you be so kind as to examine it, to discover wh. of them are pensioned, and direct that the papers of such pensioners shall be looked into?
Very Respectfully J. H. C. Tipton
Rev. J. Minton Com of Pension Present
She is now under the Act of 1838 & the object is to place her under the Act of 1836

State of Connecticut Probate Court
District of Woodbury December 25 1855
At a Court of Probate held at Woodbury Dec 25 1855.
Present Chas B Phelps Judge.
On motion of Joseph R. Morris and Emily P. Morris of Woodbury in said district husband and wife the said Emily P. Morris being one of the heirs at law of Sarah Parker deceased. Administration is granted to Lewis Isaac Egle upon the Estate of Sarah Parker late of Coventry in Litchfield County New York and it being proven to this Court that said Sarah Parker at her death was entitled to a pension from the Government of the United States and that administration upon the Estate of said Sarah Parker hath not been granted in any other jurisdiction.
and said Lewis Isaac accepting said trust gave bond with surety as is law

here provided
Thos D Phelps Judge
Certify the foregoing to be a true copy of Record In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed the seal of said Probate Court
Thos D Phelps Judge of Probate for said District
Lewis Isaac Esq Woodbury Conn

W.P.
Department of the Interior Washington, May 13, 1856.
Sir,
The decision of your office, in the case of Sarah Parker, as communicated to her attorney, F. F. C. Triplett, Esq., on the 25 th November, 1853, and as reported to this Department on his appeal, on the 3 d ult., has been fully affirmed, - and the papers connected therewith are herewith returned to you.
I am, Very respectfully, Your Obot. Servt., R. M c lelland, Secretary.
Hon. J. Minot, Commr of Pensions.

Washington Mar 28. 1856
Sir,
For the first time, I believe, since you have been Commissioner I have a case before you for allowance; I mean that of Sarah Parker. I will not be thought unfortunate, therefore, I hope, if I ask that you will dispose of it at once. Mr. Niles & Mr. Dodge, who examined it, think it will sustain; Mr. Lede from his knowledge of that particular service I have no doubt would concur in their opinion, and if you will yourself look into the case you will find the evidence of the very strongest character. But should I be mistaken in this, it is of importance that I should know the conclusion at which you will arrive, & I therefore very respectfully ask your attention to it.
Yrs ever R. F. C. Pickens
Genl J. Mans Comp Penna -

Woolbury Conn 15 June 1857
Hon P C Whiting
Recently compelled to make for the representation of Sarah Parker the inquiry if her pension application is rejected or suspended
All address to Mr Pugh who acted for the claim have for two years remained unanswered
I am sorry to violate the private room of procedure established in public administration - but
We can get no information without pressing the inquiry at the entire source of information
Very respectfully yours
Thos B Phelps
I represent the sole heir at law of Sarah Parker

Re examination case Sarah Parker wid
Jatham Parker NY 1824 ad H3
A. H. Markland

Washington D.C. Dec 26 th
Hon J. M c Intosh Committee of Enquiry
As the Attorney for the heirs of Mrs Sarah Parker wid of Gotham of NY admitted Oct 1824, I ask that the case may be re-examined with a view to an allow- ance under act 1836,
I remain Sir Your obed Servt
A. H. Markland

J. A. Pugh , March 4. 1862
Appeals from the action of the Pension Office in the case of Sarah Dist. of Northern Par- ker for pension under Act of July 4. 1836.
Respectfully referred to the Comm. of Pensions for report -
W. H. Smith Clerk (Report 2) March 11. 1862

Washington D.C., 12 th March 1867. Hon. C. B. Smith Secretary of the Interior. Sir
I am the attorney in the case of Sarah Rucker widow of Gotham of the State of Connecticut. Mr. Rucker was pensioned under act of July 1838 when the claim is fully estab- lished to service after marriage. Therefor entitling the widow of the benefits of the provisions of the act of 4 th July 1836
I respectfully appeal from the decision of the Court & ask a reference of the case to your Department
I am my Resp te Your obed t Serv t A. H. Pugh

Woodbury, Ct. Feb. 4 th 186.
To the Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, Sir,
Having given Mr. S. A. Pugh, of your City a power of Attorney, some time since to obtain an increase to the Pension of Sarah Parker wife of Nathan Parker of the State of New York, (both deceased) and he having required an administrator to be appointed which we have done, with satisfactory bonds given to the Court, and a Certificate of the same mailed to said Pugh on the 26 th of Dec. last with a note enclosed, that if it was not satisfactory to the Department to inform me

at once, from which time I have not heard any thing from him. Two weeks since I wrote him a letter of inquiry, as to the cause of the delay, and have had no reply to either.
Now, Sir, as the lawful Heir of Sarah Parker I respectfully solicit you as the Commissioner of Pensions to inform me if Said Pengh has received any Certificate, Order or Money from the Department to apply to the case in question.
You will confer a great favor to reply at your earliest convenience;
Yours most respectfully, Emily P. Merwin.
Please address Mrs Emily P. Merwin. Hotchkiss Ville, Ct.

Jan. 23. 1839
N.Y.
add: Snook
Sarah Parker
J. L. Edwards Esq Commissioner of Revenue War Department Washington City D.C.
FREE

Rev. 1 JN
Albany, N.Y. Aug 1 1917
The Pension Bureau, Washington, D.C.
Gentlemen:
Have you a record of the Revolutionary Service of Jotham Parker who from about 1795 to the time of his death in 1815 resided in Coventry, N.Y.
His widow Sarah removed to Franklin, N.Y. then to Addison, N.Y. where she died Nov 15, 1848. She certainly had a widow's pension and it may be her pension record which will establish his.
Any information, or the knowledge of lack of information will be gratefully received by
Geo E Baldwin 4 High St Albany N.Y.

Jotham Parker, enlisted in Connecticut, supposed to be in the Continental line, in the Revolutionary War. His widow, Sarah Parker, drew pension as widow of a soldier in the Revolutionary War, under the Act of 1831. Wanted: the war record, regularly certified, of Jotham Parker.
Address: L. F. Parker, Roe Building, St. Louis, Mo.