Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 2690, for Calvin Preston, Connecticut

SERVICE
NUMBER
Conn.
Preston, Calvin Rachel
N. 2690 B.L. Wt. 26884-160-55
CONTENTS

To Utica 8703 Utica.
New York Jan
Calvin Preston
Oneida Co in the State of New York who was a private in the Company commanded Captain Potter of the Regt commanded Col Canfield in the St. M. - re for Dis. mo.
Inscribed on the Roll of New York at the rate of 80 Dollars 00 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 25 th day of Apr. 1833 and sent to B. P. Johnson Rome.
Arrears to the 4th of March 1833 $160.00 Semi-ant. allowance ending 4 Sept - 40.00 $200.00
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by W. L. Williams Clerk, Book Vol. 4 Page 28
Augh 2 nd - 1833, transfer to Utica, sent notice same day - see transfer book.
of re. by by to

10991.
Deacon Calvin Preston Oneida Co. New York
Private
1780, at New London as Substitute for pro Preston 3. months
1781. Col Wells Regt at Home neck 9 mos.
1782. Col Canfield's Regt — 1 year Whole — 2 Years.
B. 1. (Johnson) Agent Rome. N.Y.
Admitted.
24 mo. Private
Per. Payble Africa W.S.

STATE OF NEW YORK, } ss. Oneida County, }
On this 10th day of September 1832 personally appeared in open court now sitting, Calvin Preston the court of Common Pleas of said Co state, aged sixty seven a resident of said county and years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress, passed June 7, 1832.
That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated: That he was born in April 1765 at Ashford. Con - has a record of his age in family bible - United in Ashford when he entered service - since war at Salem N.Y. Norway. N.Y. Then and now Deerfield Oneida Co N.Y. That in June 1780 he entered the army as a substitute for his father John Preston who had been drafted for 3 mos. but has forgotten officers names, went to N. London, and there served whole 3 mos. Enlisted at Ashford in Spring of 1781, under Capt Bolton, Col Wells. Regt for nine mos. marched to P'keepsie - and there at Horse Neck remained stationary then and in the neighborhood until winter after when he was discharged, having served whole nine mos. - has no written discharge. Enlisted at Ashford in Spring of 1782 for one year in company (capt's name forgot) in Col Canfield's Regt. Adjutant of Regt McDowell. Marched again to Horse Neck and remained there and in the neighborhood during the whole term and served the whole year and was discharged Spring 1783 no written discharge recd. - Knows of no one that can prove his service! - refers to the annexed affidavits as to reputation.
He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Joseph D. Read Drs. Clerk
Calvin Preston
We, William Woodell and Lewis Reed farmers residing in Deerfield hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Deacon Calvin Preston who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration: that we believe him to be about sixty seven years of age: that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a Soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion. That he
Sworn and subscribed the the day is a man of truth & veracity and year aforesaid
Geo. Brown Clerk
Wm Woodell Lewis Reed
And the said court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the above named applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier and served as he states: And the court further certifies, that it appears to them that William Woodell who has signed the preceding certificate, is a resident in Deerfield and is a Clugymar and that Lewis Reed who has also signed the same, is a resident in Deerfield & a farmer and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
By the Court
C. Heyden, first presg
I, George Brown Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of Oneida Co do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Calvin Preston for a pension.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this 10th day of Sept. 1832.
Geo. Brown Clerk

885 New York
Rachel Preston w of Calvin Preston
Conn served in the Revolutionary
war, as a private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of Eighty Dollars
Cents per annum, to commence on the 1st day of March , 1848.
29 Nov
Certificate of Pension issued the 19th day of December 1887 and sent to
John Billings Trenton One D o C o NY
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under July 29, 1848, Page 81 Vol. a
Died Feb-3, 1858
Reg P m 55-109069

No 1007
Rachel Preston, widow of Calvin,
NY
Act 29 July 1848
Married before 1800 Hus d decd 29 Nov 1849,
Adm t 2 yrs pri p er 80 per annum, com ing 29 Nov 1849,
Albany
John Billings Trenton, Mercer Co N.J.

State of New York Oneida County Clerks Office of the Records Court of the City of Utica ss. I Moiren Mr. Jones Clerk of said Court do hereby certify that the Records Court of the City of Utica is a Court of Record in said City and that Aaron Hackley before whom the annexed depositions or declarations on oath of Rachel Preston, Daniel McKay, Walter R Griswold were taken was at the time of taking the same, and is at this time the Recorder (or Presiding Judge) of the City of Utica and of said Court and duly authorized to take such depositions and declarations on oath according to the laws of this State — and further that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of said Recorder and verily believe that the signatures of said Recorder to said depositions and declarations on oath and the several certificates following the same are genuine — In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court this 3 rd day of December A.D. 1851.
Mr. Mr. Jones Clerk

FAMILY RECORD.
MARRIAGES.
MARRIAGES.
Sophia Preston Was married December the 30 1810
Clarry Preston Was married Sept 19 th 1816
Silas Preston Was married Ap the 1819
Susan Preston Was Sept Married Sept 14 th A. 1820
Philip Preston was Married Feb 15 th 1823
Cyrena Preston, Was Married Sept 19 th 1826
Calvin Preston, Jr. Married Sept. 17 th 1827-
Sabrina Preston Married Sept. 23 rd 1833.
John R. Preston was Married to Cornelia E. Gibbs Oct 19. 1841

FAMILY RECORD.
BIRTHS.
B.
BIRTHS.
William Preston was born April the 11 th 1705.
Susan Preston was born December the 19 th 1801
Rachel Preston was born July the 23 rd 1706
Polly Preston was born August the 9 th 1803
Sophia Preston was born May the 15 th 1798
Sabina and Lydia Preston were born November the 22 nd 1814
Silas Preston was born May the 16 th 1793
John Preston was born Feb y the 28 th 1797
Clara Preston was born April the 14 th 1795
Philip Preston was born March the 10 th 1797
Caleb Preston jun. was born Feb y the 27 th 1799

State of New York
Oneida County ss.
On the 3 rd day December 1857 personally appeared before me, Aaron Hackley, Recorder of the City of Utica, Rachel Preston a resident of the town of Deerfield, in the county of Oneida, aged Eighty five years, who being 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 29, 1848, That she is the widow of Calvin Preston, who was a private in the Revolutionary Army and a Pensioner of the United States, Evidence of which is already of record in the War Department, and to which this deponent begs leave to refer, as evidence in this case, and also to a Copy of his Original Certificate of Pension, appended to a declaration made by this deponent and forwarded to the Pension Department, on or about the 27 th day of last September which declaration, as she is recently informed by that department, was not made before the proper Officer & therefore not allowed — She further declares that she was lawfully married to the said Calvin Preston on or about the 20 th day of May, in the year 1790 — That her husband, the aforesaid Calvin Preston died at Deerfield aforesaid on the 29 th day of November 1849 — That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the second of January 1800 viz, at the time above stated — She further swears that she is now a widow, and that she has never before made any application for a pension, except as above mentioned, She further swears that her said marriage took place in the town of Ashford in the State of Connecticut & that the marriage ceremony was performed by Samuel Thompson, a justice of the peace, and that in the relation of husband & wife they ever lived, from the day of their marriage, until the death of her said husband, as aforesaid, She further swears that she is the lawful mother, by the said Preston, of Ten children, reference being had to the Bible Record of their several births, herunto annexed & marked B, and she further swears that the Bible Record of her said marriage, if any was ever made, is now no where to be found — That she has diligently sought to obtain

Having evidence thereof, from the before named justice of the peace, who performed said marriage ceremony, and who as she is informed, and verily believes to be true, died many years ago, leaving no record that can be found amongst his papers, establishing the fact of her said Marriage - that she now resides in the town of Deerfield, in the County of Onondaga State of New York and has resided there for the space of forty years last past and that previous thereto she resided in the town of Norway, Herkimer County, New York
Sworn to and subscribed, on the day and year above written, before me Aaron Hackley
Rachel Preston
Recorder of the City of Utica John Billings, Witness
I certify that I am personally acquainted with Widow Rachel Preston above named, who signed the foregoing declaration to the truth of her statement as therein set forth, I am fully satisfied that in consequence of bodily infirmity she is wholly unable to attend Court.
Aaron Hackley
Recorder of the City of Utica
State of New York Onondaga County ss
On this 3 rd day of December 1857, personally appeared before me, Aaron Hackley, Recorder of the City of Utica, Daniel McKay, a resident of the town of Deerfield in the County Onondaga State of New York, aged seventy five years, who being duly sworn according to law, declares & says that he has been personally acquainted with Widow Rachel Preston, above named, for the space of forty years last past - that her character has ever been

correct - irreproachable and that of a devout christian - that the statement above made & by him subscribed, he verily believes to be true & correct in every particular - that he was intimately acquainted with Calvin Preston, who was a private in the Revolutionary Army and a pensioner of the United States, and that he died at Deerfield aforesaid on the 29 th day of November 1849, by whom this deponent lived a near neighbour for forty years last past and at the time of his death - that the said Calvin Preston was an Associate Deacon, with this deponent for thirty years up to and immediately preceding his death, in the Presbyterian Church in said town of Deerfield and in the adjoining town of Russia - that he, this deponent, was intimate in the family of said Preston and has often heard both him and her, speak of their relationship of husband and wife, and this deponent further testifies, that they did live and cohabit together, in that friendly relation, for forty years immediately previous to, and up to the time of the death of said Preston
Daniel Bray
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me Aaron Hackley Recorder of the City of Utica.
John Billings, witness
State of New York Oneida County ss!
On this 3 rd day of December 1851, personally appeared before me, Aaron Hackley, Recorder of the City of Utica, Doctor Walter R. Griswold, late a resident of the town of Deerfield, County of Oneida and State of New York, who being duly sworn according to law, doth depose and say, that he was the family Physician, in the family of the late Deacon Calvin Preston

and that he attended him, as such, in his last sickness, and that he died at Deerfield aforesaid, on the 29 th day of November 1849, and this deponent further says that during his intimate acquaintance, as Physician and neighbour, in the aforesaid family, their relation of husband and wife, was often spoken of, by the said Calvin Preston aforesaid, as well as by the foregoing deponent Rachel Preston his widow and that to his knowledge they did live and cohabit together, in all the affectionate relations, as such
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me Aaron Hackley
Walter B. Griswold M.D.
Recorder of the City of Utica
John Billings, witness
I certify that the foregoing deponents, Deacon Daniel McKay and Doct r Walter B. Griswold are both known to me, as men of high standing & of irreproachable character, and that the fullest reliance may be placed in the truth of  upon their several statements
The words "in the truth of" were interlined before being signed.
Aaron Hackley
Recorder of the City of Utica.

State of New York Oneida County, ss
On this 3 rd day of December 1857, personally appeared before me, Aaron Hackley, Recorder of the City of Utica, Rachel Preston widow of Calvin Preston deceased, late a pensioner of the United States, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on her Oath declare and say, that the leaf this day taken from her Family Bible, hereunto annexed & marked B, contains a true and faithful record of the names and births of her ten children, by her late husband, the said Calvin Preston deceased, and that the said Bible, in which the aforesaid record was made, has ever been in her possession, from the time said record was so made, up to the present time, and that the names and births of her said children, were entered and recorded on this said leaf by, and in the hand and writing of Eli Bracket at the request of the said Calvin Preston deceased and of this deponent, more than thirty years ago, and that the same has ever remained unaltered —
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before me Aaron Hackley
Rachel Preston
Recorder of the City of Utica. John Billings, witness I certify, that being personally acquainted with the above deponent, Rachel Preston, I am fully satisfied of the truth of her statement, as above set forth — And that the leaf taken from her Family Bible, containing the names and births of her ten children, was cut therefrom by me and hereunto appended & marked B — Aaron Hackley Recorder of the City of Utica.

Civ. H. D. Safford Dec 29/55 Set. J. Belling, Feb 26/56
109069 { Act. Mar. 3/55 May 1st/55
Rachel Preston, wid of Calvin Preston, (Pm)
Revolutionary Pension Widow has her Pension
N.Y. July 48-845
109069 ms. 2/56
[Handwritten signature/initials]
Henry D. Safford Newport N.Y.
Vol P. page 142

109.069 Application of Rachel Preston for Sana Bounty Act 1855 Henry D Safford Agent Newport Hankiner County NY

State of New York County of Oneida } ss
On this 24 th day of April A D 1855 personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace within and for the County and State aforesaid Rachel Preston aged eighty eight years a reside- nt of the town of Deerfield in the County and State aforesaid who being duly sworn according to law decl- ares that she is the widow of Calvin Preston who was a private in the Revolutionary war and who as such private was entitled to and did draw a pension of eighty dollars per annum as will appear from the records and papers on file in the pension office. She further states that she was married to the said Calvin Preston some time in the month of May or June in the year 1790
and that her name before her said marriage was Rachel Rice and that her said husband died at the town of Deerfield in the County of Oneida and State of New York in the 29 th day of November 1849 and that she is now a widow and she further states that she is now in receipt of a pension of eighty dollars per annum as the widow of the aforesaid Calvin Preston a certificate of which the following is a copy to wit
Department of the Interior Widow's Pensions I certify that in conformity with the act of July 29 th 1848 Rachel Preston widow of Calvin who was a private in the revolutionary war is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of eighty dollars and 83 cents per annum commencing on the 29 th day November over

1849 and continuing for life unless she should again marry in which case the pension is not payable after the time of such marriage
Given at the Department of the Interior this Nineteenth day of December one thousand eight hundred and fifty one
Alex H H Stuart
Examined and Countersigned) Secretary of the Interior
J E Heath
Commissioner of Pensions
Recorded in the Pension Office on the Roll of Pensioners Under Act July 29 th 1848 Page 81 Vol A
She further declares that her said husband never received Bounty Land from the United States for Military Services rendered the United States or either of the States and that she has never applied for Bounty Land under any other act of Congress
And she states that the proof of her said marriage and of the services and death of her said husband will be found on file in the Department of the Interior Pension Office at Washington to which she asks that reference may be made to establish this her claim for Bounty Land as she is unable at this time to state parti- cularly the date of her marriage or the death of her husband or any facts relative to his services.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtain- ing the bounty land to which she may be entitled under

ing the bounty land to which she may be entit
er the act approved March 3 d 1855
hu Rachel L. Preston
Awe Daniel Mc ay and Nathan mark Patchin residents of the town of Deerfield in the State of New York upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Rachel Preston (who made her mark) in our presence and that from the appearance and statements of the applicant we believe that she is the identical person she represents herself to be
Daniel Mc ay Nathan Patchin
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be and that I have no interest in this claim the undersigned on the 29 th day of November 1849 and Calvin Preston was introduced before signing and I further certify that Rachel Preston cannot write her name from the infirmities of old age but she made her mark in my presence
Archibald Blue Justice of The Peace

ing the bounty land to which she may be
or the act approved March 3 d 1855 her
Rachel L Preston
Awe Daniel McRay and Nathan Patchin residents of the town of Deerfield in the State of New York upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Rachel Preston (who made her mark) in our presence and that from the appearance and statements of the applicant we believe that she is the identical person she represents herself to be
Daniel McRay Nathan Patchin
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons that the claimant is the person she represents herself to be and that I have no interest in this claim the undersigned on the 29 th day of November 1849 and Calvin Preston was intestate before signing and I further certify that Rachel Preston cannot write her name from the infirmities of old age but the mark her making in my presence Archibald Blue Justice of
State of New York, ONEIDA COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE } ss.
I DO HEREBY CERTIFY, That Archibald Blue
Esquire, whose name is subscribed to the Jurat of the foregoing affidavit and thereon written, was, on the 24 day of April 1855 a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, and sworn and duly authorized. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice, and verily believe that the signature to the said Jurat is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto affixed the seal of the said County, and subscribed my name, this 26 day of April 1855
Richard H. Hubbell CLERK

1st Brief
No 10991
Calvin Preston
admitted.
24 mos. Private.
17.
detail required
13 Sep 1832 7 Oct 1832
P 139.
B.P. Cohoes
Rome
NY

No 10991.
BRIEF in the case of  Calvin Preston of the County  of Onondaga in the State of New York  (Act 7th June, 1832.)
1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge?
In Open Court. —
2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?
3. How old is he?
4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed.
   Period. Duration of Service. Rank. Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served.   Years, Months, Days. As a Gen.     In 1780, 3. Substitute   Spring 1781. 9. private Capt Bolton. Col Wells.   " 1782. 1. " Col Canfield.  
5. In what battles was he engaged?
6. Where did he reside when he entered the service?
Ashford.
7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditionary evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls?
By traditionary Evidence. —
8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect?
They appear to be in due form. —
I Certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
James B.
Examining Clerk.

AW
April 19, 1926..
Mrs. H. A. Proslér, 1214 6" St. S. Fargo, N. Dak.
Madam:
I have to advise you, that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 2690, it appears that Calvin Preston was born April 11, 1765, at Ashford, Conn., and while living there he substituted  enlisted in June 1780, and served  as a substitute for his father John Preston, aserved  for three months on guard duty at New London, Connecticut, officers not stated.
He enlisted in the spring of 1781 and served nine months in Captain Bolton's Company, Colonel Wells' Conn., Regiment. He also enlisted in the spring of 1782 and served one year in Colonel Canfield's Conn. Regiment.
He was allowed pension on his application executed September 10, 1832, while living in Deerfield, Oneida County, New York, where he died November 29, 1849.
He married at Ashford, Connecticut, May 20, 1790, Rachel Rice, who was born July 23, 1766. She was allowed pension on her application executed September 22, 1851 while a resident of Deerfield, New York.
10/2/3/1858
1849

They had the following children:
   Sophia  born  May  13, 1791,  married  December 30, 1810.    Silas  "  May  16, 1793,  "  April 7, 1819.    Clarry  "  April  14, 1795,  "  September 19, 1816.    Philip  "  March  10, 1797,  "  February 13, 1823.    Calvin  "  February  2, 1799,  "  September 17, 1827.    Susan  "  December  19, 1801,  "  September 14, 1820.    Polly  "  August  9, 1803,  "  September 23, 1833.    Sabrina  "  November  12, 1804,  "  September 19, 1826.    Syrena Lyrena  "  November  12, 1804,  "  (October 19, 1841    John R.  "  February  18, 1809,  "  (Cornelia E. Dibble.   
The names of the wives and husbands of all children, except that of John R. are not on record.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT, Commissioner.

No 1007
Rachel Preston,
ma balm.
New York
Lot 9. Billings Nov 14/51
July 29. 1848.
FREE
Commissioner of Pensions
Washington
D.C.
590601

26,884
5 Mrs. Ames
Rachel Preston
Calvin July 4th - 88
Portman
Henot Esq. Commissioner of Pensions D.C. Washington

WASHINGTON
HON: COMMISSIONER OF PENSIONS
TO THE
W. B. Carpenter
YOUR OBEDIENT SERVANT
REKA RESPECTFULLY
PROOFLETTER
NEEDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE ROBBERY OF ONE OF THE BANKS IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA FROM THE RECORDS OF YOUR OFFICE UPON THIS SUBJECT AS THE ONLY IS
I HAVE THE HONOR TO YOU THAT AND FURNISH THE INFORMATION NEW YORK IN WHICH PLACE I THINK LIES DOWN DIED
THEIR RESIDENCE WAS IN NORTH CYDE STREET CO
MOTHER PRESENT DIED IN JANUARY 1898
CAPTAIN PRESENT DIED NOV 20 1898
PAID PENSION DURING HER LIFE
RECEIVED A PENSION DURING HIS LIFE AFTER HIS DEATH HIS WIDOW RECEIVED
CAPTAIN PRESENT WAS AN RESPECTFUL AND LOVING FATHER AND SO ON
W. B. Carpenter

C. W. Preston & Co. Druggists. 2125-2127 MARKET, COR 22 d ST., Galveston, Texas.
10A. July 16 th 1896
SIR:-
CALVIN PRESTON WAS AN REVOLUTIONARY SOLDIER, AND AS SUCH RECEIVED A PENSION DURING HIS LIFE. AFTER HIS DEATH HIS WIDOW RECEIVED SAID PENSION DURING HER LIFE.
CALVIN PRESTON DIED NOV. 29 - 1849 .
RACHEL PRESTON DIED IN JANUARY 1858 .
THEIR RESIDENCE WAS AT NORTH GAGE , ONEIDA CO . NEW YORK . AT WHICH PLACE , I THINK, THEY BOTH DIED .
I HAVE THE HONOR TO ASK THAT YOU FURNISH ME A TRANSCRIPT FROM THE RECORDS OF YOUR OFFICE UPON THIS SUBJECT , AS THE DATA IS NEEDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE FORMATION OF ONE OF THE PATRIOTIC SOCIETIES.
VERY RESPECTFULLY
YOUR OBEDIENT SERVANT
C. W. Preston,
TO THE
HON: COMMISSIONER OF PENSIONS .
WASHINGTON .

OLIVE HANCOCK JONES 511 NORTH WASHINGTON STREET ROME, N. Y.
Mar. 3, 1933.
Hon. B. H. Morgan, Director of Pensions, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir:
Can you give me any war records or data as found in your files on the following patriots?
✓ Calvin Preston born in Ashford, Conn. He was allowed a pension about 1832.
✓ Joseph Brefflin b. 1763-1850. served in So. Cav. Line. Born in Culpepper Co. Va. died in S. Cav.

OLIVE HANCOCK JONES 511 NORTH WASHINGTON STREET ROME, N. Y.
✓ William Hancock and son, ✓ John Hancock of New Jersey.
Thanking you for any courtesy you may extend, I am
Respectfully
(Mrs.) Olive Hancock Jones.

July 28 '96 said period to C.W. Preston Galveston, Texas L.W.B. 1914 Feb. 26 - First 50 shares H. Preston W. L. 4 mrs - 1926 Apr. 19 - First 50 mrs - H.A. Presler. aw 1933 Mar. 22 - First 50 mrs. Clara Hancock Jones - M.L.B.
Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 2690
 Rachel Preston Widow  Calvin Preston Pri. Rev. War
Act: July 29, 1878
Index: -Vol. M. , Page 139.
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Brief in the case of Rachel Preston, widow of Calvin Queida County and State of New York act 29 July 1848
Claim, ("original," or for increase." )
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband was a Pensioner, Record proof of marriage
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Name and residence of Agent.
John Billings Trenton N.J.
J. Cole Examining Clerk.

J. E. Heath Esq. m commissioner of Pensions Department of the Interior Washington D. C.

Trenton Post-Office Onondaga County - N. York - Sep r 27, '57
J. E. Heath Esq r . Commissioner of Pensions &c Sir,
At the Solicitation of Mrs Rachel Preston, Widow of Calvin Preston, deceased, who was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States, I beg leave to lay before you, her claim & Evidence for a Pension, founded on the services of her said husband. And she begs me to add, that her age & condition in life is such, that an early consideration of her application is very much desired.
Very Respectfully
Your Ob t Serv t
John Billings

Trenton, Onida Co. N. York Nov 6. 1857
J. E. Heath Esq. Commis r . of Pensions
Sir,
On the 27 th of September last, I forwarded to you, on the request of Mrs Rachel Preston, her application for a Pension, founded on the services of her husband, Calvin Preston, deceased, who was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States — to this application I do, in her behalf, respectfully ask your attention, at your earliest convenience.
Very Respectfully yours Obedient Serv t .
John Billings

Trenton Post Office, Onondaga County N. York - Dec. 5. 1857
J. E. Heath Esq. Commissioner of Pensions &c
Sir,
I beg leave herewith, to return, for your further consideration, the Declaration &c of Widow Rachel Preston, for a pension, under the service of her late husband, Calvin Preston, deceased, - said Declaration, now sent, having been amended in conformity to the instructions contained in your favor of the 14 th Ult, and I do but follow the instructions given me, by Mrs Preston, by respectfully requesting an early consideration of her claim
Very respectfully
Your ob d Serv t
John Billings

Comptroller's Office Hartford Feb. 1, 1885
Dear Sir,
Your letter of Jan'y 28 th with $2. enclosed was duly recd. I have had a careful search made through our records, and am sorry to have to say, that I cannot find any evidence of the service of Calvin Preston on our documents. You are perhaps aware, that our pay rolls for Militia service are many of them missing, and it often happens that record evidence cannot be found here when it is well known that service was performed. I am sorry that I cannot send you a certificate.
I am truly yours, W. Robinson Sec. Comt.

Trenton Post Office Oneida Co. N.Y. Feb y 19 '56
J. C. Minot Esq. Commissioner &c Sir,
Application having been made, agreeable to your suggestion, to the Comptroller of the State of Connecticut, for evidence of service, in the case of Calvin Preston, deceased, who was a Revolutionary Soldier & Pensioner, I beg leave to hand you, herewith, the Comptroller's reply, by which it appears, that no record evidence is to be found in that office, to enable the widow of said Calvin, who is now living, to obtain bounty land, may I be permitted to inquire, if the evidence of service, now in the Pension Office, which enabled the said Calvin, deceased, to obtain a full pension, of 80 dollars per year, be not sufficient, with the testimony of the said widow & such other collateral testimony as can at this late period, be adduced, to procure for her, a warrant for bounty land, as there is not now, known to be living an individual who can testify to the actual service of said Calvin, deceased. — The pension Certificate, which has been extended to Rachel Preston, widow of said Calvin

is now in my hands & bears date Nov 29 1849 under the act of July 29. 1848 - No 885
Respectfully yr Ob. Servt
J. Billings

March 22, 1933
XXXX XXXXXXXX
Joseph Griffin, S. 21247
Calvin Preston, W. 2690
BA-J/MLB
Mrs. Olive Hancock Jones 511 North Washington Street Rome, New York
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter of March 3, in which you request the records of Joseph Griffin and Calvin Preston, soldiers of the Revolutionary War.
You are furnished herewith both records as requested, the data of which were obtained from the papers on file in their claims for pension, based upon military service in the War of the Revolution.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

March 22, 1933
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Mrs. Olive Hancock Jones 511 North Washington Street Rome, New York
Joseph Griffin, S. 21247 Calvin Preston, W. 2690 BA-J/MLB
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your request for the Revolutionary War records of Joseph Griffin and Calvin Preston, which are furnished you as follows:
JOSEPH GRIFFIN, S. 21247
The data which follow were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, S. 21247, based upon the Revolutionary War service of Joseph Griffin.
He was born August 9, 1753, in Virginia; the exact locality of birth and names of his parents are not shown.
While residing in Laurens District, South Carolina, he volunteered in November, 1780, served as a private in Captain William Harris' company, Colonels Joseph Hayes' and Levi Casey's South Carolina regiment, was in the battles of Blackstock, Long Cane, Hammond's Store, Williamson's Plantation, Cowpens, Guilford Court House, Bush River, Siege of Ninety Six, William's Fort on Little River and Eutaw, and was discharged in January, 1782.
He was allowed pension on his application executed March 4, 1834, at which time he was a resident of Anderson District, South Carolina. At that time he had been drawing a pension from the State of South Carolina, for "some years".
He died April 3, 1850, near Martin's Depot, Laurens R. R., South Carolina.
Joseph Griffin married, date not given, Nancy Black, in Anderson County, South Carolina.

Children of Joseph Griffin were referred to, but the only name given was that of a daughter, Frances Susan Griffin, born September 28, 1835, in Anderson County, South Carolina; in 1856 was living in Laurens District, South Carolina; in 1881 she was the wife of _____ Monroe (given name not stated) and a resident of Martin's Depot, Laurens R. R. County, South Carolina.
There are no further family data in the claim. *****
CALVIN PRESTON, W. 2690
The data contained herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, W. 2690, based upon the Revolutionary War service of Calvin Preston.
He was born April 11, 1765, in Ashford, Connecticut.
While a resident of Ashford, Connecticut, he substituted in June, 1780, for his father, John Preston, and served three months on guard duty at New London, Connecticut, officers not stated. He enlisted in the spring of 1781 and served nine months in Captain Bottom's company, Colonel Wells' Connecticut regiment. He enlisted in the spring of 1782 and served one year in Colonel Canfield's Connecticut regiment.
After the Revolutionary War he resided in Salem, New York, Norway, New York, and then Deerfield, Oneida County, New York.
He was allowed pension on his application executed September 10, 1832, while a resident of Deerfield, New York. In 1833 he gave his address as Deerfield, Oneida County, New York, with post office at North Cage in that county.
He died November 29, 1849, in Deerfield, New York. At the time of his death he was a deacon in the Presbyterian Church at Deerfield and the adjoining town of Russia.
Calvin Preston married May 20, 1790, at Ashford, Connecticut, Rachel Rice, who was born July 23, 1766.

Soldier's widow, Rachel, was allowed pension on her application executed September 22, 1851, at which time she was living in Deerfield, New York, where she had lived for forty years, and where she was still living in 1855. Prior to her residence in Deerfield, she had lived at Norway, Herkimer County, New York. She died February 3, 1858.
The following children of Calvin Preston and his wife, Rachel, appear in the claim:
Sophia born May 13, 1791, married December 30, 1810 Silas " May 16, 1793, " April --, 1819 Clarry " April 14, 1795, " September 19, 1816 Philip " March 10, 1797, " February 13, 1823 Calvin " February 2, 1799, " September 17, 1827 Susan " December 19, 1801, " September 14, 1820 Polly " August 9, 1803, " Sabrina " September 23, 1833 and " November 12, 1804, " Syrena or Cyrena " September 19, 1826 John R. born February 18, 1809, " October 19, 1841, (Cornelia E. Dibble).
The names of the wives and husbands of all children, except that of John R. are not on record.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
H. F. 2690
Washington, D. C., _____, 19_____
In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of Calvin Preston 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.     * June 1780 3 mos. Pvt. on guard duty at New London officers not remembered Conn.   Spring 1781 9 mos. Bolton Hull   Spring 1782 1 year Canfield       * Substituted for his father John Preston  
Battles engaged in, _____
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Ashford Conn.
Date of application for pension, Feb. 12 1832 His el. was al.
Residence at date of application, Deerfield Oneida Co. N.Y.
Age at date of application, 1 Apr. 1765 at Ashford Conn.
Remarks:
d. Nov. 29 1849 at Deerfield, N.Y. He m. May 20, 1790 at Ashford Conn. Rachel Rice b. July 23, 1766. She was al. pens. on an application executed Sept. 22, 1851, while a Resident of Deerfield N.Y. See Supplement herewith for data as to children.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.

March 26, 1914.
Mr. Charles H. Preston, 1754 M Street N.W. Washington, D. C.
Sir:
In addition to the military history of Calvin Preston W. File No. 2,690. Rev. War, you are furnished the following data as to his children.
Sophia. born May 13, 1791, married December 30, 1810. Silas, " May 16, 1793, married April — 1819. Clarry, " April 14, 1795, married September 19, 1816. Philip, " March 10, 1797, married February 13, 1823. Calvin, " February 2, 1799, married September 17, 1827. Susan, " December 19, 1801, married September 14, 1820. Polly, " August 9, 1803. Sabrina, " November 12, 1804, married September 23, 1833. Syrena, " November 12, 1804, married September 19, 1826. John R. " February 18, 1809, married October 19, 1841,
Cornelia M. Dibble.
Very respectfully,
G. M. Dibble Commissioner.
names of other wives & husbands of children not on record

Fargo, N. Dak., March 8, 1926.
Bureau of Pensions, U. S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D. C.
Gentlemen:
I beg to inquire whether or not one William Goodell ever applied for a pension for service rendered in the Revolutionary War. He was born in July 1756-7, and married Phoebe Newton at Marlborough, Mass., Nov. 29, 1787. They lived at Templeton, Mass., and had ten children among whom was Nathan, born Apr. 18, 1797, from whom we are descended. We think the William Goodell who enlisted at Marlborough, Mass. in 1775, 1776, 1777, 1779 and 1781 is the same William Goodell as our ancestor as the age corresponds. The soldier was 23 years old when he enlisted in 1781, March 21. Our William Goodell died July 4, 1843, place of death not known.
4/26/90 I would like also to inquire concerning one Calvin Preston, born April 11, 1765, and who married Rachel _____, born July 23, 1766. They had nine children among whom was Susan Preston who married Nathan Goodell, son of Wm. Goodell above mentioned. They likely lived in Massachusetts also. Calvin Preston was of military age during the Revolutionary War. He did not die until Nov. 29, 1849, according to the family record. Therefore, if he served, he likely applied for a pension.
I am a member of the D.A.R. and am anxious to get these lines established and of record if possible, knowing another generation or two and the connection would be entirely lost.
Thanking you for what information you can send me, I am,
Very truly yours,
Mrs. H. A. Presler
1214-6th St. South, Fargo, North Dakota.

Hathorne, Mass. May 15 1914.
Department of Interior Bureau of Pensions Washington D.C.
Gentlemen:
I wish to get the particulars in regard to the Rev. Pension received by Noah Preston of Oneida Co. N.Y. and Calvin Preston of the same Co. N.Y. Both were pensioned under act of June 7 1832.
Yours very truly Charles H. Preston

State of New York
Morris County ss On this 28 th day of February 1833 Personally appeared Calvin Preston within named, who being by me duly sworn deposes and says that he served in the Revolutionary War as follows: viz
That in June 1780 he entered the army as a substitute for John Preston his father who had been detailed for three months. This deponent marched to New London and there served the full term of three months, but he cannot recollect the names of the officers. We were employed as a guard to prevent the British from coming in to the place.
In the Spring of 1781 he enlisted at Ashford in Capt Bottoms Company - 8 th Knowlton - in Colonel Wills Regiment of State troops, and marched immediately to Stafford Conn and from there we marched across the Country to Horse Neck, and were there engaged in guarding the post at Horse Neck, and served occasionally around in parties for scouting, and continued in that service until the winter of 81-82 when the said deponent was discharged from service having served the full term of nine months , for which he enlisted.
In the Spring of 1782 this deponent enlisted for one year in a company attached to Col Banfields

Regiment, of Connecticut Troops - The adjutant of the Regiment was named McDowell - This deponent cannot recollect the names of the company officers - The Regiment Marched directly to Horse neck, and were then employed as a guard to that post, and in scouting against the enemy in the neighborhood - and continued in the service there until the Spring of 1863 when he was discharged at Horse neck having served the full term of one year for which he enlisted.
This deponent refers to Aaron Reed Esq. Esopus, Ulster Co., New York, and others whom he might name of Deerfield, Ohio who can testify as to the character and reputation of this deponent.
Calvin Preston
Personally appeared before the undersigned the above named Calvin Preston who is a man of credibility, truth and veracity, and made oath to the foregoing affidavit. Feb 28 th 1883.
Alva Wheeler Justice of the Peace

Clerk's Office
Oceana County
I George Brown Clerk of said County do hereby certify that Alva Whedon above named is a Justice of the Peace in and for said County - That I am well acquainted with his hand writing and believe the above signature to be his proper hand writing. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office this first day of March 1853.
George Brown Clerk
J. B. Read Deputy Clerk

North Gage June 25 th 1846 Mr. Edwards, Secretary of Treasury of United States City of Washington.

J. L. Edwards, Secy. at war,
Sir,
My Pension of $80.00 a year is made payable in the city of R. York. It is my wish to receive it hereafter at the United States Bank - City of Utica, that being only twelve miles from my place of residence. Please write me an answer soon directed to
Deerfield
North Gage Post Office Oneida Co. N.York.
and oblige yours Calvin Priest
Deerfield Oneida Co.
87.03
June 22. - 1833.

Payments to be made at New York, by Pres't U.S. Br Bank, agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of New York
Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book E. Vol. 4 Page 28 by W. L. Williams Clerk.
No 8703
Copy of Calhoun Preston's Pension Certificate
[Handwritten signature]
you are not aware that previously there to she resided in the last part and that previously there to she resided in the town of Norway in the County of Herkimer and state of New York
Sworn and subscribed this 22 day of March Preston

State of New York Oneida County fs:
On the 22 d day of September 1851, Personally appeared before the subscriber a justice of the Peace, in and for the County of Oneida, duly authorized by Law to administer Oaths, Rachel Preston, a resident of the town of Deer- -field in the County of Oneida and State of New York, Aged Eighty five years, who being first duly sworn according to Law, doth make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provisions made by the act of Congress, passed July 29 1848, granting Pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolution- ary War — That she is the widow of Calvin Preston, who was a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States, evidence of which is already of record in the War Department, and to which this deponent begs leave to refer as evidence in this case, and also to a copy of his Original Certificate of Pension hereto annexed and marked A — That he died in said town of Deerfield on the 29 th day of November 1849, and to whom this deponent was married, on or about the 20 th of May 1790, in the town of Ashford in the state of Connecticut, by Samuel Thompson a justice of the Peace, in which relation of husband and wife, they ever lived, from the day of her marriage, until the death of her said husband, as above stated — That she is the lawful mother, by the said Calvin Preston, of Ten Children — That the Bible records of her said marriage, if any was ever made, is now no where to be found — — That she has sought diligently to obtain evidence of her said marriage, from the above named justice of the Peace, who performed said marriage ceremony, who, as she has recently been informed and verily believing to be true, died many years since, leaving no record that can be found amongst his papers, establishing the fact of her said marriage — — She further declares that she has not intermarried, but is still the widow of the above named Calvin Preston — That she now resides in the town of Deerfield, County of Oneida and State of New York and has resided there for the space of Forty years last past and that previous thereto she resided in the town of Norway in the County of Herkimer and state of New York
Sworn and subscribed this 22 day of September 1851 — Before me Daniel Warner justice of the peace John Billings, witness
Rachel Preston
I certify that I am personally acquainted with Widow Rachel Preston, above named, and who signed the foregoing instrument.

to be true, died many years since, leaving no record that can be found amongst his papers, establishing the fact of her said marriage - She further declares that she has not intermarried, but is still the widow of the above named Calvin Preston - That she now resides in the town of Deerfield, County of Onida and State of New York and has resided there for the space of Forty years last past and that previous there to she resided in the town of Norway in the County of Herkimer and State of New York
Sworn and subscribed this 22 day of September 1857 - Before me Daniel Warner justice of the peace John Billings, witness
Rachel Preston
I certify that I am personally acquainted with Widow Rachel Preston, above named, and who signed the foregoing instrument and to the truth of her statement, as above set forth, I am fully satisfied
Daniel Warner justice of the peace
State of New York
Onida County ss.
On the 22 day of September 1857, personally appeared before the subscriber, a justice of the peace in and for the County of Onida, duly authorized by Law to administer Oaths, Deacon Daniel McKay a Resident of the town of Deerfield, in the County of Onida and State of New York Aged Seventy five years, who being first duly sworn according to Law, declares as follows, that he has been personally acquainted with Widow Rachel Preston, above named, for the space of Forty years last past - That her character has ever been correct - irreproachable and that of a devout christian, and that the statement above made, and by her subscribed, he verily believes to be true and correct in every particular, that he was well, and very intimately acquainted with Deacon Calvin Preston, who was a Revolutionary pensioner of the United States, and who died at Deerfield aforesaid on the 29 th day of November 1849 - by whom this deponent

State of New York
Onida County ss.
On the 22 nd day of September 1851, personally appeared before the subscriber, a justice of the peace in and for the County of Onida, duly authorized by Law to administer Oaths, Deacon Daniel McKay a Resident of the town of Deerfield, in the County of Onida and State of New York Aged seventy five years, who being first duly sworn according to Law, declares as follows, that he has been personally acquainted with Widow Rachel Preston, above named, for the space of Forty years last past - that her character has ever been correct - irreproachable and that of a devout christian, and that the statement above made, and by her subscribed, he verily believes to be true and correct in every particular, that he was well, and very intimately acquainted with Deacon Calvin Preston, who was a Revolutionary pensioner of the United States, and who died at Deerfield aforesaid on the 29 th day of November 1849 - by whom this Deponent
Payment to be made at New York, by Messrs. W. S. Mr. Bank, agents for Haring Pensioners, in the Agency of New York
No 8703
Copy of Calvin Preston's Pension Certificate
[Handwritten signature]
Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book E. Vol. 4 Page 28 by W. S. Williams Clerk.

lived a near neighbour for forty years previous to, and at the time of his death - that the said Calvin Preston was an associate Deacon with this deponent for thirty years up to, and immediately preceding his death, in the Presbyterian church in said town of Deerfield and in the adjoining town of Russia - that he this deponent was intimate in the family of said Preston, and has often heard Him and Her speak of, and declare their relationship of Husband and Wife, and that he this deponent, knows and testifies that they did live and cohabit together as such, for forty years previous to, and up to the time of the death of said Preston
Sworn and subscribed this 22 nd day of September 1857
Daniel McKay
before me
Daniel Warner justice of the peace John Billings, Witness
State of New York
Onida County ss!
On the 22 nd day of September 1857 personally appeared before the subscriber, a justice of the Peace in and for the County of Onida, authorized by Law to administer Oaths Doctor Walter R. Griswold, late a resident of the town of Deerfield, in the County of Onida and State of New York, who being first duly sworn according to Law, says that he was the family Physician in the family of the late Deacon Calvin Preston, who was a revolutionary Pensioner of the United States, and who died at Deerfield aforesaid on the 29 th day of November 1849 - and the said deponent further says, that during his intimate acquaintance in the aforesaid family, the relation of Husband and Wife was often spoken of by the said Calvin Preston deceased, as well as by the foregoing deponent Rachel Preston, and that to his knowledge they did live and cohabit together as such - and that the character and standing of Widow Rachel Preston and Daniel McKay the foregoing deponents, are such as to justify, where ever known, an unqualified belief in the correctness of their several statements.
Sworn and subscribed this 22 nd day of September 1857
Walter R. Griswold

of by the said Calvin Preston Deane, as well as by the foregoing deponent Rachel Preston, and that to his knowledge they did live and cohabit together as such - and that the character and standing of Widow Rachel Preston and Daniel W. Kay the foregoing deponents, are such as to justify, where ever known, an unqualified belief in the correctness of their several statements.
Sworn and subscribed this 22 nd day of September 1851 - before me Daniel Warren a justice of the peace John Billings witness
Walter R. Griswold
I certify that the above deponents, Deacon Daniel W. Kay, and Doct. Walter R. Griswold, are both personally known to me as men of high standing and of irreproachable character and the truth of their several statements the fullest reliance may be placed
Daniel Warren justice of the peace
State of New York, ss. CLERK'S OFFICE, ONEIDA COUNTY, I, ALEXANDER RAE, Clerk of the said County, Do CERTIFY, That
Daniel Warren
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 for said County, dwelling in said County, and sworn and duly authorized to take the same. And further, that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of such Justice and verily believe that the signature to the Certificate of said proof or acknowledgment, is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said County, this
26 th day of September 1851
Alexander Rae Clerk.
100 1007
Rachel Preston
Under Calvin
A New York
July 25 1850
War Department
9. Billings
Rev. Calvin

No 1007.
Rachel Preston,
Widow Calvin
New York
July 25 th 1848
War Department
Revolutionary Claims
J. Billings.
Simsbury
New York.
I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7 th June, 1832, Calvin Preston of the State of New York who was a Private in the war of the Revolution is entitled to receive Eighty dollars and 00 cents per annum, during his natural life, commencing on the 4 th of March, 1831, and payable semi-annually on the 4 th of March, and 4 th of September, in every year.
Given at the War Office of the United States, this 25 th day of April one thousand eight hundred and thirty-three
Lewis Cass Secretary of War.
Examined and countersigned. }
J. L. Edwards
Commissioner of Pensions.