Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W 9250, for John Renfro, Virginia

SERVICE
NUMBER
Va
Renfro, John Esther
W 9250
CONTENTS

13. 662
Kentucky
John Renfro.
of Barren Co in the State of Kentucky who was a Drummer in the Company commanded by Captain Harston of the reg't - commanded by Shelby - in the Virginia mili- tia for 11 months from 1777
Inscribed on the Roll of Kentucky at the rate of 39 Dollars, 33 Cents per annum to commence on the 14th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 30 day of May 1833 and sent to C. Tompkins Glasgow. Ky.
Arrears to the 14th of March 1833 $ 78.66 Semi-ant. allowance ending 4 Sep " 19.66
$ 98.32
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by Wm Allison Clerk, Book E , Vol. 7 , Page 25 ,
Letter to Hon. J. R. Underwood. b. Aug 1842.

John Renfro
Declaration for a Pension

State of Kentucky Barron County ss.
On this 15 th day of October personally appeared in open court before the justices of the county court of Barron County John Renfro resident in the County of Barron state of Kentucky aged 72 years next 12 th day of Nov r , who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain the benefit of an act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832.
That he entered the service of the in the Virginia Militia United States under the following named officers & served as herein stated.
He lived in Henry County Virginia, now called Franklin just below the Blue Ridge at the time he first entered the service. The first time he went into the service, he volunteered at the Long Island of Holston to go against the Indians under Cap Peter Harston (alias Harston), Col. Evans Shelby, Father to his excellency Isaac Shelby, Col. William Chrysty, Col. William Preston. He entered the service about April 1777 & continued in service three months. On this tour He marched from Henry County Virginia into N. Carolina crossing the Blue Ridge, thence to Fort Henry. He does not remember ever having a written Discharge, but remembers being discharged the 15 th or 16 th of July.
In 1778, about the 1 st of April he volunteered under Cap. Joseph Renfro, & Lt. David Hedans, & the first orders were to go to Point Pleasant at the mouth of Kenhawa, but when the company arrived at Bottleourt Court House orders were received from Col. Preston to go to the mouth of Greenbrier River to David Garrard's Fort, where He staid about 3 or 4 months to protect the country against the Indians. He then received orders from Col. Preston Shelby to go to Potts Fort, where the waters, he thinks, of Sandy River, where the Indians were committing depredations, where he staid out the time of 6 months, & was discharged on the

6th of Oct r . He has no recollection of getting a written Discharge. From this place he went home to Henry County.
He Afterwards, (in the same year Cornwallis was taken) he thinks it was, 1781, he volunteered under Capt. James Partee, Lieutenant Samuel Harston or Hurston, in a mounted company of Horse men, every man furnishing his own horse, equipage, Gun, &c. He assembled at Surry County into N. Carolina, in a direction to where the Battle of the Cowpens was fought & was attached to a party of Col. Morgan's men to take care of the sick & wounded & to carry them on to Henry Court House. He served this time under Col. James Lyon & Major Stephen Lyon. From Henry Court House, after staying about 3 days near to which place he marched to Join Genl. Green at Guilford, where He arrived after the Battle was fought. He was then discharged by Col. Lyon & went home. On this tour he, although he volunteered for sixty days, served only about half that time. He has no recollection of receiving a written discharge at this time.
Afterwards, He volunteered in Oct r '81 in a mounted company under Capt. Dillard & before one month, marched from Henry County Va. to Surry County N. Carolina after the Tories & outlaws on the Yadkin River. He served out the month, returned to Henry County about the same time his father returned from York, at Cornwallis's surrender. I was there discharged. He has no recollection of receiving a written discharge here either. If he ever received written Discharges he can not now tell where they are. This is all he served except about two weeks after the Tories. He has no Documentary evidence of his services, nor does he now know of any person living whose testimony he can procure, who can testify to his services. 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. In answer to the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, He saith that he was born in Bedford County Virginia, 12th Nov r 1760. He has a Record of his age at his house. When called into the service he was living in Henry County Virginia, now Franklin Va. He moved from Hen-

ry County to Union County South Carolina, he thinks about the year '87 or '88. He moved from Union County Carolina 14 th day of March 1802 to Barren County Ky, where he arrived on the last day of April 1802 & has lived there ever since. When he entered the service he volunteered. Being a Militia man he has no acquaintance with the Regular Officers or the Continental Regiments. He has no recollection of ever receiving written Discharge, if he did, he now knows nothing of them. In answer to the 7 th question he would name Joseph Ralston, John L. Woodson, Hardin Davis, Obadiah Britt, Geo. Davis, Saml Murrell Sr. Jas. Matthews, Anthony Drane Sr. Elijah Mitchell James, Bullock, James Grazier, & Thomas Wina, He could name besides many others.
Sworn to, & subscribed, the day & year aforesaid.
John his Renfro (mark)
We Zachariah Emersona clergyman residing in the County of Barren Ky & John Woodson residing in the same County hereby certify that we are well acquainted with John Renfro who has subscribed & sworn to the foregoing Declaration, that we believe him to be 72 years of age; that he is reputed & believed in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn to, and subscribed the day & year aforesaid.
Zachs Emerson John L. Woodson
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, & served as he states. And the Court further certify that it appears to them that Zachariah Emerson who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the County of Barren, Ky, and that John Woodson who has also signed the same is a resident in said County, and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I William Logan clerk of the Court of Barren County do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of John Renfro for a Pension. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 15 th day of October 1832
Teste W m Logan clerk

3762 Kentucky
Esther Renfro, deceased widow of John Renfro Va
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a
Private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 39 Dollars 33.
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Entry 8 th May 1837
Certificate of Pension issued the 23 rd day of Sept r 1851 and sent to
G. C. Ames Present
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1818, Page 255 Vol. 3

✓ No. 13478
Escher Renfo
wid of John Renfo
By
Act 7 July 1838

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of the 7 th July 1838 entitled "An act granting half pay and Pensions to Certain Widows" and also the benefits of the acts of Congress of the "3 rd of March 1843" and "17 th June 1844"
State of Kentucky Barren County Set
On this the 16 th day of September 1847 personally appeared before me (James Murrell a Justice of the Peace in and for said County and State) Esther Renfro a resident of said County and State aged Eighty four 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 pass d . July 7, 1838. entitled "An act granting half pay and Pensions to Certain Widows" and also the benefit of the acts of Congress of the "3 rd of March 1843" and "17 th June 1844". That she is the Widow of John Renfro who was a private and Drummer in the Revolutionary War, She further declares that she was married to the said John Renfro in the state of Virginia in the year Seventeen Hundred and eighty one (1781) That her Husband the aforesaid John Renfro died on the 22 nd day of April 1846. in said County of Barren and State of Kentucky 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, to wit in the year 1781, as above stated, That she knows of no living witness by whom she can prove her marriage and has no other evidence except the family record of her said husband (John Renfro) That she has not married since the death of her said husband and still remains the Widow of John Renfro. That her said husband John Renfro was a Pensioner of the United States and drew a pension of thirty nine Dollars and thirty three cents ($39.33) per annum
Witness James Murrell Joseph Renfro
Esther her Renfro

State of Kentucky Barren County S t
I James Murrell a Justice of the Peace in and for said County and State do hereby certify that the foregoing Declaration of Esther Renfro was taken subscribed and sworn to before me, and that the Family Record hereto attached, and described in Joseph Renfro's affidavit (below) was cut from the family Bible of John Renfro dec d by me and attached to this sheet, I do further certify, that I have known the said Esther Renfro for Forty years and know that she is the widow of the said John Renfro, de d whose Pension Certificate is hereto attached giving to him a pension of $39.33. which certificate has been in my possession ever since it was issued by the Secretary of War (Towit) 1833. I further certify that Joseph Renfro whose affidavit is below on this sheet is a respectable citizen of Barren County.
State of Kentucky
Given under my hand this 16 th day of September 1847
James Murrell J.P.B.C.
Barren County S t This day Joseph Renfro personally appeared before me and made oath in due form of law that the Family Record hereto attached, of the marriage of "John Renfro & Esther Renfro in the year 1781 in the month of February", and the death of "John Renfro on the 22 nd April 1846" is the true and only together with the ages of s t John Renfro. Six children is the true and only family record of the s t John Renfro de d .
Joseph Renfro
Subscribed & sworn to this
16 th September 1847 before me James Murrell J.P.B.C.
State of Kentucky, Barren County S t
I Thomas J. Helms clerk of the County Court for said County certify that James Murrell is a magistrate in and for said County duly commissioned & qualified that the three signatures purporting to be his is genuine and the signature of Joseph Renfro is also genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Glasgow this 28 th day of September 1847
Thos J Helms CBCC

Evidence of Marriage of Elsie Rumpf

State of Kentucky Barren County Set I Thomas I Helm clerk of the county court of said county certify that it appears from the records of my office that Jesse Renfro was married to Polly Mitchell on the 24 th day of December 1806 by the Reverend Cornelius D. Lewis who was legally authorized to celebrate the rites of Matrimony In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of my office at Glasgow This 15 th day of May 1851
Thos I Helm clerk By Chas Helm clerk

FAMILY RECORD.
BIRTHS.
John Renfro & Esther Renfro the was married in the year 1781 in the month of February
BIRTHS.
John Renfro was born November 12 th 1760
Ester Renfro his wife was born January 1. 1762
The births of their Children
Isaac Renfro was born July 4 th 1783
Jepsee Renfro was born August 8 th 1785
John Renfro was born August 20 th 1789
William Renfro was born February 23 rd 1792
Joshua Renfro was born January 3 rd 1796
Joseph Renfro was born June 21 st 1801

FAMILY RECORD.
DEATHS.
DEATHS.
John Renfro died on the 22 nd of April 1840

State of Kentucky.
On this the 14 th day of May 1851. Person- ally appeared before me Not. P. H. Gillam an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid Joseph Rumpf who being duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath break the following Declara- tion in order to obtain the benefits of the acts of Congress passed 17 th of June 1844 22 nd of Feb- ruary 1848, and that he is the child of John Rumpf and Esther Rumpf and that his aforesaid Father was a Pensioner of the United States under the act of 9 th of June 1832 at the rate of $39.33 per annum and that he died on the 22 nd day of April 1846. That he firmly believes that his aforesaid Father and Mother were married in the year of 1781, and that his aforesaid Mother died on the 8 th day of May 1851, and left five Rumpf, John Rumpf, William Rumpf, Joshua Rumpf, and Joseph Rumpf, her only living children. That his Brother John was born in 1783, and was mar- ried in the year of 1806, in Bourbon County Kentucky. That his Brother John was born 20 th of Aug. 1789, and was married in Bourbon County Kentucky in the year of 1806 that he has a record of his Brothers ages and his Fathers and Mothers names which he herewith surrenders, That he most respectfully asks the Hon. Commis- sioner of Pensions to allow his aforesaid Mothers claim under the above named acts commencing on the

22 nd day of April 1846 and ending on the 6 th day of May 1851, the day of his death at the rate of $9. 33 per annum. and that the certificates evidencing the same may be in closed to his Attorney Isaac H. Graham of Frankfort Ky, and with him only and such others as he may direct and be with the Hon. Commissioners to hold correspondence in reference to the aforesaid Claims or Claims.
Sworn to and subscribed Before
me on the day and year aforesaid. Joseph Ringer
Not. R. H. Gillock J. P.
2 The last subscribed Magistrate do certify that the above Declaration is personally known to me and known to be a man of truth and respectability in whose statements the fullest faith and credit should be placed Given under my hand on this the 14 th day of May 1851.
Not. R. H. Gillock J. P.

John Renfro died on the 22 nd of April 1846
John Renfro and Esther Peach were married 1781 Isaac Renfro was born May 8 th 1783 Levi Renfro was born Aug 8 th 1785 John Renfro was born Aug 20 th 1789 Wm Renfro was born Feb 23 rd 1792 Joshua Renfro was born Jan 3 rd 1796 Joseph Renfro was born June 21 st 1801
2 The last information I had of him was that he was in the city of New Orleans in the year 1851. He was then in the city of New Orleans in the year 1851. He was then in the city of New Orleans in the year 1851.
Wm H. Glavin
22 nd day of April 1846 and ending on the 6 th day of May 1846. He was then in the city of New Orleans in the year 1851. He was then in the city of New Orleans in the year 1851. He was then in the city of New Orleans in the year 1851.

March 25, 1938
John Renfro W. 9250 BA-J/AWF
Miss Dee Taylor Allison 502 Bryant Avenue Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Dear Madam:
The data furnished herein were obtained from papers on file in pension claim, W. 9250, based upon the military service of John Renfro in the Revolutionary War.
John Renfro was born November 12, 1760 in Bedford County, Virginia. The names of his parents were not stated.
While a resident of Henry County (that part which was later Franklin County), Virginia, John Renfro volunteered at the Long Island of Holston, in the month of April, 1777, served three months as drummer in Captain Peter Hurston's company, under Colonels Evan Shelby, William Christie, and Preston, in an expedition against the Indians. He enlisted April 1, 1778, served six months as private in Captain Joseph Renfro's company in Colonel Preston's Virginia regiment, during this service, he was stationed at Carrards Fort and at Potts Fort to protect the inhabitants from the Indians. He served early in 1781, one month as private in Captain James Per-teete's company of Horse, Colonel James Lyon's Virginia regiment. He served again in 1781, one month as private in Captain Dillard's company in pursuit of Tories on the Yadkin River, and reached home in Henry County, about the same time that his father returned from Yorktown from the surrender of Cornwallis. He later served a tour of two weeks in an

expedition against the Tories, names of officers not stated.
The soldier, John Renfro, moved from Henry County, Virginia, about 1787 or 1788, to Union County, South Carolina, and in the spring of 1802, moved to Barren County, Kentucky. He was allowed pension on his application executed October 15, 1832, then a resident of Barren County. He died in Barren County, April 22, 1846.
John Renfro married in the month of February, 1781, in the State of Virginia, Esther Peach. She was born January 1, 1764, place not stated, nor were the names of her parents given.
The widow, Esther Renfro, was allowed pension on her application executed September 16, 1847, then living in Barren County, Kentucky. She died May 8, 1851.
The following are the names of the children of John Renfro, and his wife, Esther, as shown in the claim-
Isaac born May 3, or July 4, 1783 Jesse " August 8, 1785 John " August 20, 1789 William " February 23, 1792 Joshua " January 3, 1796 Joseph " June 21, 1801.
The following children survived their mother, Esther Renfro- Jesse, John, William, Joshua, and Joseph.
The above named son, Jesse, married December 24, 1806, Polly Mitchell.
The papers on file in this claim contain no further reference to family. It was not stated that the Captain Joseph Renfro, under whom the soldier, John Renfro, served, was a relative.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator

March 25, 1938
XXXXXXXXXXXX
Miss Dee Taylor Allison 502 Bryant Avenue Glen Ellyn, Illinois
BA-J/EEL
John Renfro W. 9250
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of John Renfro, born in Bedford County, Virginia, in 1760, served as a drummer in the Virginia troops, married Esther Peach and died in 1846; also, the War of 1812 record of his son, Jesse Renfro, who served in the Kentucky Militia.
The record of John Renfro, W.9250, Revolutionary War and that of Jesse Renfro, S.O.15226, War of 1812, are furnished you herewith.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
August 3, 1931
Rev.& 1812 Wars Section AWF
Mrs. E. N. Ingram 701 North 10th Street Opelika, Alabama.
Dear Madam:
You are advised that it appears from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 9250, that John Renfro was born November 12, 1760 in Bedford County, Virginia.
While a resident of Henry County, Virginia he enlisted and served with the Virginia Troops, as follows: from in April 1777, three months as drummer in Captain Peter Hurston's Company under Colonels Evan Shelby, William Christie and Preston; from April 1, 1778, six months as private in Captain Joseph Renfro's company in Colonel Preston's regiment; in 1781, one month as private in Captain James Pertee's company in Colonel James Lyon's regiment; again in 1781, one month as private in Captain Dillard's company; later two weeks in an expedition against the Tories, names of officers not stated.
He was allowed pension on his application executed October 15, 1832, then a resident of Barren County, Kentucky.
He died April 22, 1846 in Barren County, Kentucky.
The soldier married in February 1781, Esther Peach, who was born January 1, 1764, place not stated.
She was allowed pension on her application ex-

outed September 16, 1847, while residing in Barren County, Kentucky.
She died May 8, 1851.
The children of John Renfro and his wife Esther:
Isaac born May 3 or July 4, 1783 Jesse " August 8, 1785, married December 24, 1806, Polly Mitchell. John " August 20, 1789 William " February 23, 1792 Joshua " January 3, 1796 Joseph " June 21, 1801.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

April 22, 1926
Mrs. L. B. Browning Denison, Box 144 IOWA
Madam:
I have to advise you that from the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim W. 9250 it appears that John Renfro was born November 12, 1760 in Bedford County, Virginia.
While a resident of Henry County, Virginia he enlisted in April 1777 and served three months as drummer in Captain Peter Hurston's Company under Colonels Evan Shelby, William Christie and Preston in the Virginia Troops.
He enlisted April 1, 1778 and served six months as a private in Captain Joseph Renfro's Company, Colonel Preston's Virginia Regiment.
He enlisted in 1781 and served one month as private in Captain James Pertee's Company, Colonel James Lyons' Virginia Regiment, then enlisted in October 1781 and served one month as private in Captain Dillard's Virginia Company.
Later, he served two weeks in an excursion against the

80 yrs ago Today
Tories, names of officers not stated.
He was allowed pension on his application executed October 15, 1832 while a resident of Barren County, Kentucky. He died April 22, 1846 in Barren County, Kentucky.
Soldier married in February 1781, Esther Peach born January 1, 1764. She was allowed pension on her application executed September 16, 1847 while a resident of Barren County, Kentucky. She died May 8, 1851.
Their children were:
Isaac born May 3, or July 4, 1783. Jesse " August 8, 1785, married December 24, 1806, Polly Mitchell. John " August 20, 1789. William " February 23, 1792. Joshua " January 3, 1796. Joseph " June 21, 1801.
The above noted is the history of the only soldier surnamed Renfro found on the Revolutionary War records of this Bureau.
Respectfully,
WINFIELD SCOTT Commissioner.

Rev. & 1812 Wars Section.
July 7, 1926.
Honorable Fritz G. Lanham, House of Representatives.
My dear Mr. Lanham:
In response to your letter of the third instant, I have the honor to advise you, that photostat copies of fourteen pages from the Revolutionary War pension claims of John Renfro and his widow Esther, W. 9250, have this day been mailed to Mr. Elmer Renfro, of the Farmers and Mechanics National Bank, Fort Worth, Texas, as requested by you.
Very truly yours,
WINFIELD SCOTT, Commissioner.

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D. C., _____, 19_____
In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of John Benfro , 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. W.F. 9250.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     Apr. 1777 3 mos. Drummer Peter Hutton or Hareton Colon Shelby McClintock + Preston Va.   Apr. 1778 6 mos. Pvt. Joseph Benfro. Preston   1781 1 mo. Pvt. James Partee. James Lyons.   Oct. 1781. 1 mo. Dillard   r 2 mos. officers not stated, in an excursion against Tories.  
Battles engaged in, ✓ Residence of soldier at enlistment, Henry (now called Franklin) Co. Va. Date of application for pension, Oct. 15 1832. His claim was allowed. Residence at date of application, Barren Co. Ky. Age at date of application, born in Bedford Co. Va. Nov. 12. 1760, he married in Va. Feb. 1781. Esther Peach b. Jan. 1. 1764, he died in Barren Co. Ky. April 22. 1846 and she was allowed pension on an order Sept. 16. 1847 while a resident of Barren Co. Ky. She died May 8 1851. Children: Isaac b. May 3, or July 4. 1783; Sarah b. Aug. 8. 1785 mar. Dec. 24, 1806 Polly Mitchell b. John. b. Aug. 20. 1789; William born Feb. 23. 1792; Joshua born Jan. 3. 1796; Joseph born June 21, 1801.
Respectfully,
Commissioner.

February 28, 1938.
Veterans Administration, Washington, D. C.
Gentlemen:
Will you please give me any available information appearing on the Pension Rolls concerning JOHN RENFRO, who was born in Bedford County, Virginia, in 1760 and died in 1846? He served as a drummer boy in the Revolutionary War in the Virginia Militia.
JOHN RENFRO married Esther Peach and had a son, Jesse Renfro, who served in the Kentucky Militia in the War of 1812. Family tradition says that John Renfro received a pension and I am desirous of learning if this is true and also whether Jesse Renfro was a pensioner.
Any information you can give me with reference to the foregoing will be gratefully received, especially with reference to any descendants of either or both.
Respectfully,
no signature? (Miss) Dee Taylor Allison, 502 Bryant Avenue, Glen Ellyn, Illinois.

Apelika - Ala.
July 16. 1931.
Dear Sir -
Will you please let me know if you can give me information from your files in Washington. I am asking about one John Renfroe , born in Bedford Co., Va. in 1760 and was a drummer boy in the Va. militia during

the American Revolution. He received a pension.
for his service -
If you can please give me all the information possible - Are the names of his children listed. Many thanks -
Sincerely
Eliza Renfro Ingram Regent Martha Wayles Jefferson Chapter D. A. R.

3-2233
BUREAU OF PENSIONS
Finance Division
June 23, 1926
..... June 23 1926
Chief. Rev. Sect. Division.
copies of two pages from the Revolution, W. 9250.
Casanova by St. N.W. ghou, D.C.
I have this day received from
Mrs. Arturo G. Casanova
..... cash ..... No. ....
for $ 60/100 ..... , requesting
photostat copy post office addresses } as per
letter herewith.
ok not cft
June 23 1926 Photos received of Finance Div Rev. Sect
O. J. RANDALL
Chief Finance Division.
W.G.S.
ix. AWT
June 28-1926
Subject John Renfro - W. 9250 - Rev. War 2 copies of 1 pieces consisting of 1 pages to be (No.) (No.) (No.) forwarded when completed to the Rev. War 1812 Division.
Remarks: Please make 1 negative & 1 positive copy of each page Approved:
A.E. Wilson
Chief Division.
Chief Clerk.

FI 546
June 23, 1926
Commissioner of Pensions
Sir:
I desire positive photostatic copies of two pages from the Revolutionary War pension claim of JOHN RENFRO, W. 9250.
Mrs Arturo J. Casanova 727 Kennedy St. N.W. Washington, D.C.
Received payment Sixty cents June 23, 1926
W.C. Stokes
Request for Photostating (To be prepared in duplicate.)
3-2006
Ex. Aut
3639
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF CLERK
Job No.
Date June 28-1926
Subject
John Renfro W. 9250 Rev. War
2
copies of
1
pieces consisting of
1
pages to be
(No.)
(No.)
(No.)
forwarded when completed to the
Rev. War 1812
Division.
Remarks:
Please make 1 negative & 1 positive copy of each page.
Approved:
A.E. Wilson
Chief Division.
Chief Clerk.

Finance
June 23, 1926
Commissioner of Pensions
Sir:
I desire positive photostatic copies of two pages from the Revolutionary War pension claim of JOHN RENFRO, W. 9250.
Ms Arturo J. Casanova 727 Kennedy St. N.W. Washington, D.C.
Received payment Sixty cents June 23, 1926
M.C. Stokes
Rev. & 1812 Wars Section
FINANCE DIVISION JUN 23 1926 BUREAU OF PENSIONS
true copy of each page! Approved:
A.E. Wilson
Chief Division.
Chief Clerk.

Request for Photostating (To be prepared in duplicate.)
3-2006
Ex. and
3663
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF CLERK
Job No. _____
Date July 3 26
Subject John Renfro, Rev W 9260
1 copies of 9 pieces consisting of 14 pages to be (No.) (No.) (No.)
forwarded when completed to the Rev 1812 War Section Division
Remarks: _____
Approved:
McNihon
Chief Division Section
Chief Clerk.

FRITZ G. LANHAM 12TH DIST. TEXAS
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES U. S.
WASHINGTON, D. C.
June 11, 1926.
Hon. Winfield Scott, Commissioner of Pensions, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D. C.
Dear Mr. Commissioner:
I am enclosing herewith a self-explanatory letter which I have received from one of my friends, Mr. Elmer Renfro, Cashier, The Farmers & Mechanics National Bank, Fort Worth, Texas. You will note Mr. Renfro requests a photostatic copy of one of the the pension warrants made payable to and cashed by John Renfro, who was placed on the pension roll May 30, 1833. I shall appreciate it if you will kindly forward to me the photostatic copy which Mr. Renfro requests if it can be furnished. As stated, Mr. Renfro is one of my very good friends and I shall appreciate it if you can comply with his request.
Thanking you for your courtesy in this matter, I am
Very sincerely yours,
Fritz G. Lanham
Mr Renfro in his letter, said he wanted a copy of this pensioner's signature to compare with one he had received from the Census Bureau. of a John Renfro.
There is no John Renfro in our files. Mr Renfro said this part of Barren Co Ky was his ancestor

812 Wars Section.
Mr. Lanham's Sec'y called up said Mr. Lanham was sick and and would I write her about this, explain about pay and also about removal of Bureau as Mr. Renfro had July 2, 1936. telegraphed for copies and she wanted him to understand Alf
Honorable Fritz G. Lanham, House of Representatives.
Sir:
In response to your personal inquiry of this date, I have the honor to advise you, that if Mr. Renfro wishes photostat copies of the original papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 9350 of John Renfro and his widow Esther, containing his military and family history, the same will be furnished him at the rate of fifteen cents a page, with twenty-five cents extra for certification, if that is desired.
The number of pages to be copied is fourteen.
The proper amount should be forwarded to this Bureau by a certified check, or money order, (or if by a member of Congress, a check) drawn to the order of the Secretary of the Interior, ( not to the order of the Commissioner of Pensions).
Owing to the removal of the Pension Bureau to the Interior Department Building, you are requested to ex- cuse any delay in this matter, though it is hoped that it can be immediately attended to for you.
Very truly yours,
WINFIELD SCOTT, Commissioner.

1812 Wars Section.
June 16, 1923.
Honorable Fritz G. Lanham, House of Representatives.
My dear Mr. Lanham:
In response to your letter of the eleventh instant, and the enclosed letter of Mr. Elmer Renfro of Farmers and Mechanics National Bank, Fort Worth, Texas, requesting a photostat copy of the signature of the Revolutionary War pensioner, W. 9250, John Renfro, I have the honor to advise you, that there is no signature of that soldier on file, as he signed the papers in his pension claim, by mark.
Very truly yours,
WINFIELD SCOTT, Commissioner. 14/88

3-2233
BUREAU OF PENSIONS
Finance Division
July 6, 1926
Chief Rev. Sect. Division.
I have this day received from
Hon. Fritz G. Lanham
check No.
for $2.35, requesting
photostat copy post office addresses as per
letter herewith
1926 July 7 photo. inculd Finance Div. not aw.
J. S. Randall
Chief Finance Division.
n.c.L.
ENTATIVES U. S.
ON, D. C.
July 3, 1926.
letter of July 2nd with iend, Mr. Elmer Renfro, th, Texas, to secure pho- papers in the Revolutionary John Renfro and his ilitary and family umber of pages to be ey can be furnished at ge.
my check for $2.35 and l have the photostat copies proper certification. y registered mail directly t Fort Worth, Texas, or I may forward them to e let me hear from you s promptly as possible.
courtesy, I am
very sincerely yours,
Fritz G. Lanham
Check enclosed.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES U. S.
WASHINGTON, D. C.
Fin
July 3, 1926.
Attention- Rev. & 1812 Wars Section.
Commissioner of Pensions, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
I am in receipt of your letter of July 2nd with reference to the wish of my friend, Mr. Elmer Renfro, F.& M. National Bank, Fort Worth, Texas, to secure photostat copies of the original papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W. 9250 of John Renfro and his widow Esther, containing his military and family history. You state that the number of pages to be copied is fourteen and that they can be furnished at the rate of fifteen cents a page.
I am enclosing herewith my check for $2.35 and shall appreciate it if you will have the photostat copies made at once and also have the proper certification. I suggest that you send them by registered mail directly to Mr. Renfro at his address at Fort Worth, Texas, or send them to me in order that I may forward them to him by registered mail. Please let me hear from you with reference to the matter as promptly as possible.
Thanking you for your courtesy, I am
Very sincerely yours,
Fritz G. Sanham
Check enclosed.

1915 May 26: History to Mrs. W. Mr. Pollock. Letter in S.F. 16 223 John Pemberton. mmre
1921 Oct. 14. Hist. to Mrs. Geo. Spangler, 312 S. Glenwood Ave. Peoria Ills. (earlier letter in James Ramsey, Va. 78541) aw
1926 Apr. 22. Hist. to Mrs. L. B. Brooking - mmre
1926 June 16. Hon. F. G. Lunham wife. Soldier Signed by Mark aw
1926 June 30. photos mailed to Mrs. A. Y. Cascinova. aw
1926 July 2. Hon. F. G. Lunham wife of an cost of copies aw
1926 July 7. photos mailed to Mr. Elmer Renfro and Hon. F. G. Lunham so advised. aw
Very WIDOW, &c.
File No. 9250
Esther Renfro Wid. of John Renfro Post Rev. Mr.
Act: Feby. 2 nd /48
Index: -Vol. 66 Page 154
[Arrangement of 1870.]
1931 Aug. 3 - Hist. to Mrs. E. H. Ingram aw 1908 - mch 25 - Hist. to Miss Dee Taylor Allison aw

Brief in the case of Esther Renfro, dec d wid of John County and State of Kentucky acts 17 June 44 & 2 o Feby '48
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 under act of 7 June '32 at $39.33 per An.
Evidence of marriage, Documentary.
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Name and residence of Agent.
G. C. Ames Present.
F. J. Kirby Examining Clerk.

Payments to be made at Lexington by the Pres d U.S. Branch Bank Agent for paying Pension- ers, in the Agency of Kentucky.
Ino " Renfro
Recorded in the Pension Of- fice, in Book C, Vol. 7 Page 25 by Wm Allison Clerk.

WAR DEPARTMENT.
Revolutionary Claim.
I certify that, in conformity with the law of the United States of the 7th June, 1832, John Renfro of the State of Kentucky who was a Drummer, Private of Cavalry & Infantry in the Army of the Revolution is entitled to receive Thirty nine — dollars and thirty three cents per annum, during his natural life, commencing on the 4th of March, 1831, and payable semi-annually on the 4th of March, and 4th of September, in every year.
Given at the War Office of the United
States, this thirtieth day of
May — one thousand eight hundred and thirty- three
Lewis Cass
Secretary of War.
Examined and } Countersigned. }
J. Edward
Commissioner of Pensions.

Oct 11/47 Del Renfrew Escher 13478 and of Johnston. 1838
Free
J. L. Edwards Com. of Pensions Washington City D.C.

Washington June 11 1857 James E. Heath Esq. Sir,
Enclosed you will please find Application of the Administrator of Esther Kenfao widow of Joseph Kenfao for arrears of Pension alleged to be due under the act of 17 June 44 and 2 nd July 1848.
Mr Kenfao's husband was a pensioner under the act of 7 June 1832. The Certificate of the Clerk of Barren Co. shows that one of their Children were married in 1806 which together with the family record now presented shows clearly that their marriage took place prior to 1794
With much respect Yours ob t Servt Geo. W. Ames

House - Augt 2 nd 1842
Sir
Inclosed you have the affidavit of Mr. Murrell upon which I desire that you will renew the certificate of Mr. Renfro. Mr. Murrell states in his letter to me, that the original was sent to him by a negro, so that Mr. Renfro could not state upon oath that it was ever delivered to Murrell. Be pleased to send me the new certificate as soon as it issues and oblige
your ob t serv t
J. R. Underwood
James L. Edwards Com te &c

John Rumba Kentucky.
From 1777. Brown Pr. Infy & Cav, 11 mo: Drummer, 3 mo. $ 11. -- Pr. Inf 6 mo. 20 -- " Cav 2 mo 8.33 $ 39.33
C. Tompkins jr Glasgow, Ky

BRIEF objections to the admission of Pension Claims, of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of
John Renfro further proof or explanation.
I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? yes II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? yes III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so? _____ IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served? yes V. * Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled? No VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations? yes VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? yes VIII. Has the Court given their opinion? yes IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate? yes X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal? yes

XI. Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolutionary service? yes XII. If the clergyman's affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtaining it?  XIII. If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one living witness, has he stated in his declaration that such proof cannot be had? yes XIV. † If the applicant has produced a witness or witnesses as to his service, has the magistrate who administered the oath certified that he, she, or they are persons of credibility?  Has the official character and signature of the magistrate been certified by the proper officer under his seal of office?  XV. Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant's service?  XVI. ‡ Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct? yes XVII. Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily? And, if not, which of them is not so answered? yes
EXPLANATORY NOTES.
* QUERE V. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words:
“Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades: For _____ year _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____. For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension.”

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which the applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable.
†QUERE XIV. Proof of Service.
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimants entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
†QUERE XVI. Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticated the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other paper authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the end of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.

Deed 8 May 1857

State of Kentucky
Barren County ss
I Thomas I Helm Clerk of the County Court of the County and State aforesaid do hereby certify that Robert R W Gillock is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid duly commissioned and sworn. That his commission was dated on the 27 th day of December 1848 and continued during life on good behaviour, and that his signature is above written on Genuine,
Given under my hand and seal of office, this the 15 th day of May 1851.
Tho I Helm C.B.C.O By Chas Helm Secy

Denison, Iowa.
Mar. 6. 1926.
Commissioner of Pensions Washington, D.C.
My dear Sir.
John Renfro, and I think James Renfro drew pensions in 1835, from Barren County Ky. They were members of the Va. Militia and John was Captain. James was Assistant Surveyor of Lincoln Co., Ky. in 1783.
The Renfro family received land grants

in Bell County Ky.
Will you please give the report of all the Renfro's who drew Revolutionary Pensions.
Sincerely
Mrs. L. B. Browning.
Denison, Iowa.
Box 144
192 6 / 8 184 6 / 8

No 13478 Esther Rumpf Ky
No action against her known
act 7 May 1838

Esther Renfro dec d widow of John Ky.
Acts 17 June 44 & 2 Feb y 48 $39.33 per Ann: from 22 d Apr 46 - when her hus- -band died, to 8 May 1851 when she died.
Payable to Joseph Renfro, Adm. for the benefit of himself Levi Renfro, Jn s Renfro, Wm Renfro, & Joshua Renfro, only surviving children
cert to G. B. Ames Present.

Barren County Court Set
May Term 1851
On motion of Joseph Renfro, It is ordered that letters of admin- -istration, with the will annexed of the estate of Esther Renfro Dec d be granted him, whereupon he took the necessary Oath & entered into bond in the penalty of $400. with Benjamin S. Curd his security conditioned as the law directs.
a Copy attest
Travis Lockrill Clerk B.C.C.

690 Kentucky Esther Penfro dead widow of John who was a Private in the Revolution
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 39 Dollars 33 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
22 nd April 1846 Certificate of Pension issued the 23 rd day of Sept 1857 and sent to
G. C. Ames, Present
[Act of March 3, 1843 June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book A. Vol. 2. Page 186.

Amendment to objection V. Geo. Renfro

State of Kentucky } 35. County of Barren }
Personally appeared before me, the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, John Renfro, who being duly sworn, deponeth, and saith, that he heretofore, to wit, on the 15th day of October, 1832, (the year being left blank in the Declaration) made out his Pension Declaration before the Justice of the County Court of said County, and sent the same on for the consideration of the War Department for the purpose of obtaining a Pension; that the same has been considered by said Department, & returned for amendment, in this, that this Affiant did not state "with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the Department to determine to what amount of Pension he is entitled"; that for the purpose of obviating said objection, Affiant now appears before the proper authority to make this affidavit. That by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below and in the following grades, to wit, when

he volunteered the first time at the Long Islands of Holston (aka Hurston) under Cap- tain Peter Hurston (alias Hurston) he served for the period of at least three months as a master Drummer. In 1778 about the 1st of A- pril when he volunteered under Captain Joseph Renfro & Lieutenant David He- dams, he served as a Private at least 6 months, and not, as is stated in his Pension Declaration, 3 or 4 months only, he served on this Tour to the best of his recollection from the 1st April 1778 to the 6th Octr 1778, and conceives that it was erroneously stated in his Pension Declaration, from mistake or otherwise, that it was only 3 or 4 months. That when he he volunteered under Cap. Perceel & Lieu- tenant Samuel Hurston or Harston in a mounted Company of Horsemen, in the year Cornwallis was taken, he served at least thirty days, as a Private. When he volun- teered under Captain Dillard in a mounted Company of Horsemen in Octr 1781, he served to the best of his recollection one month as a Private. He afterwards served two weeks in a little excursion after the Tories. He served in all at least eleven months, exclusive of the last mentioned two weeks, and is willing to receive a Pension for said eleven months as above set forth only , if the Department is of opinion he is entitled thereto. And for such service I claim a Pension.
Sworn and subscribed this 19th day of March 1833, before me } John Renfro his mark
Jas. Murrell S.P.B.C.

State of Kentucky County of Barren Sec.
I William Logan Clerk of the Court of Barren County certify that James Murrell is a Magistrate as aforesaid, and as in the foregoing affidavit he purports to be, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine. In testimony whereof I have hereunto affixed my seal of office and subscribed my name this 20th day of March 1833
W Logan Clerk of the Court of Barren County