Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 26,577, for Elisha Niles, Connecticut

SERVICE
NUMBER
Conn.
Niles, Elisha
W. 26,577
Naomi
CONTENTS

9774 Connecticut
Elisha Miles
of Middlesex in the State of Cont. who was a Private in the Cont. commanded by Captain Worthington of the Regt. commanded by Col. Mead - in the Cont. time for 15 months & 9 days -
Inscribed on the Roll of Cont. at the rate of 51 Dollars — Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 17 day of June 1833 — and No. 84. E. Hampt on
Arrears to the 4th of Ma: '33 $ 10 2 Semi-ant. allowance ending 4 Sep. '33 25 50 $127 50
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by G. C. Miles Clerk, Book E. Vol. 3. Page 31.

State of Connecticut } ss. County of Middlesex - }
On this 4 th day of December A.D. 1832 Person appeared in open Court before the Court of Probate for the district of Chatham, now sitting Elisha Niles a resident of Chatham, in the County of Middlesex and State of Connecticut aged sixty nine years, who being duly sworn according to law, cloth on his oath, made the following declarations, in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress, passed June 7 th 1832.
That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers, and served as herein stated:
1. That in the month of September 1774, his father Nathan Niles belonged to the company of militia commanded by Captain Elisha Worthington, which company belonged to the Regiment commanded by Col Jeremiah Morse, and was drafted for one month, that he took the place of his father went to New London as a substitute, that he with the company was quartered in the Court house, Elisha Worthington was his Captain, David Sprague was Lieutenant and John Sparrow was Ensign. At this time he performed one months duty as a private. 2. That in the month of April or May 1780 he was called out in an alarm and stationed near the light house in New London in the state of Connecticut, was in Captain Stephen Brainerd's company in the Regiment commanded by Col Dyer Thrall, the whole regiment was called into service and continued on duty three weeks, that at this time he performed three weeks duty as a private. During this time of service, he labored on building a fort, which on account of its location and construction was called "Fort Moususe". 3. That in the month of July 1780 Ambrose Niles of Colchester was drafted as a corporal to perform three months duty in the Militia, that he went as his substitute and performed said term of duty for said Ambrose Niles, not as a corporal, but as

a private, that he was in Captain Daniel Jones company, the name of the Lieutenant was Ransom, the company belonged to the Regiment commanded by Col Richard, that he joined the Regiment at Winthrop's point in New London. After remaining there about six weeks, the whole regiment marched on the Sabbath to a village called Paugussett in the town of Preston on the east side of the River Thames where or four miles below Norwich Landing, where the regiment was employed in cutting fascines to erect quick breast works, that there was a regiment from Hartford commanded by Col Harkness Wylly, that lay near his regiment and commenced their march for Lebanon where Gov. Trumbull resided, the cause of their rebellion was want of provisions, they were soon pacified by their officers and they returned to their duty. In this town of duty the Adjutant's name was Stillman and the name of the Quarter Master was Asa Dutton. That at this time he performed three months service as a private.
4. That in the Spring of 1781 he enlisted as a teamster in the Continental service under Captain Obediah Borla of Hebron in the State of New York, that he continued with the Continental army until the first of July when the Army broke up their winter quarters and marched towards the City of New York with a view of attacking the City, the next morning the British landed and attacked the American army near Valentine Hill, the battle and skirmishes continued through the day when the American army was reinforced, and the British gave way and retired to their shipping. That at the close of the day his team was loaded with the dead and wounded and he, with the armed men on towards White Plains. That he was in the team service at this time seven months as a teamster. 5. That in the Spring of 1782 on the 24 th of March he enlisted into the Continental army for one year, that he was mustered by

a Continental officer and joined the main army at the Highlands in the State of New York, near West Point, that he was in the company commanded by Captain Simon Spalding, the Lieutenant was Abraham Price and the Ensign Becket. The company belonged to the Regiment commanded by Col Thomas Green, that the Regiment belonged to the Brigade commanded by Gen. Sedgwick. That he served one year as a private when he was discharged. That for this service he was formerly put upon the pension roll and afterwards struck off on account of property. That the documentary evidence of this service together with his discharge are now in the War Department to which reference may be had. That in the various periods above mentioned he served as a private not less than sixteen months as a private and including the time he was a leader not less than two years for which he claims a pension. That he has no documentary evidence of service except what is in the War Department and the affidavit of David Spencer which is hereto annexed and  and  that  that  there is  there is no persons living who can testify to the same, that he was in no Battles except at Valentine Hill. He hereby relinquishes any 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 he says.   1. That he was born in Colchester New London County Connecticut Feb'y 29 th 1764.  2. That he has no record of his age  3. That he was living at said Colchester when called into the service, and that since the year 1786 he has lived in Chatham Middlesex County Connecticut where he now resides.  4. That he was called into the service in the manner he has stated in this declaration, to wit, by being drafted, contesting and giving as a substitute. 

 5. That he knew and served with General Washington, Huntington, Parsons, Col. Thomas Green, Majors Robert Warner and Bliss.  6. That he received a written discharge which is now in the War Department.  7. That he is known to Rev William Welch and Olmsted Gates in his present neighborhood, and who can testify to his character for veracity and their belief of his services as a soldier of the revolution. 
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
Elisha Niles
We William Welch, a Clergyman, residing in the town of Chatham and Olmsted Gates residing in the same town hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with Elisha Niles, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration that we believe him to be sixty nine years of age; that he is respected and beloved in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
William Welch Olmsted Gates
And the said court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter, and after putting the testimony of the applicant was a revolutionary soldier and served as he states. And the court further certifies that it appears to them that William Welch who has signed the preceding certificate is a Clergyman resident in the town of Chatham, and that Olmsted Gates who has also signed the same is a resident in the same town, and is a credible person, and that this statement is entitled to credit.
I William G. Corn, Clerk of the court of probate for the District of Chatham do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Elisha Niles for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 4 th day of December A.D. 1832.
Wm G. Cornstock Clk

Lieut David Spencer (Deposition for Elisha Miles a Revolutionary Prisoner)
Elisha Miles
25053

Eliza
25
Col Myllus R.S.
End March 24. 82.
Diso March 3. 83
21
10.10
12.00
11
11.09
[Faint mirrored text from the reverse side of the page]

I David Spencer of East Haddam Middlesex County aged Eighty three years before and say that in the month of September in the year 1779 I was a lieutenant in a company of Militia commanded by Capt. Elijah Worthington stationed at New London in the State of Connecticut where we staid for the term of one month I also recollect that Elisha Niles then of Colchester New London County but now of Chatham Middlesex County was a soldier in the said company commanded by Elijah Worthington for the term of one month when he was honorably discharged. John Sparrow of said East Haddam was Ensign of said company & Jeremiah Mason of Lebanon was Col. of said Regiment. said company & Regiment was called out by a draft David Spencer in the Revolution or war.
Middlesex County ss East Haddam September 3 d 1832
Personally appeared David Spencer signer of the above Deposition and made oath to the truth of the same — Before me
Ozias Holmes Justice of peace
I hereby certify that David Spencer the above deponent is well known to me and is in all respects a competent and credible witness.
Ozias Holmes Justice of peace
I, THOMAS DAY, Secretary of the State of Connecticut, and Keeper of the Seal thereof, do hereby certify and make known to whom it doth or may concern,
That Ozias Holmes , Esquire, before whom the foregoing Affidavit of David Spencer was taken, is, and at the time of such caption, was, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County of Middlesex in said State, duly appointed, commissioned and qualified, having full power and authority, by the laws of said State, to administer oaths to witnesses and to take Affidavits and Depositions out of Court, and to give certificates thereof; that I verily believe the foregoing signa- ture purporting to be his, is genuine; and that full credence is due to his official acts and attestations.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my Hand, and affixed the Seal of said State, at the city of Hartford, in said State, the 22 nd day of December in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred and thirty- two.
Thomas Day

No 107 Elisha Niles Chatham Jp. 30 June 1818.
not entitled

State and District of Connecticut, ss. Middletown June 21 st 1820
ON this 21 st day of June 1820 personally appeared in open Court, before the County Court holden at Middletown by adjourn- ment within and for the County of Middlesex in said State, on the 20 th day of June 1820, the same being a court of record, proceeding ac- cording to the course of common law, with a jurisdiction unlimited in point of amount, keeping a record of its proceedings, and having power of fine and imprisonment, Elisha Niles aged fifty seven years, resident in the town of Chatham in said State, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath declare that he served in the revolu- tionary war, as follows: That he the said Elisha Niles enlisted for the term of Twelve months on the 24 th day of March in the year 1782 in Colchester in the State of Connecticut in the company commanded by Captain Simon Spalding in the regiment com- manded by Colonel Thomas Grosvenor in the line of the State of Connecticut on the continental establishment: That he continued to serve in the said corps until the 3 rd day of March 1783 when he was discharged from the said service in West point in the State of New York That he made a declaration to obtain a pension under the law of the 18th of March 1818, as nearly as he can recollect, having no minutes, on the 15 th day of April 1818 ; and had transmitted to him a Certificate for a pension from the Secretary for the Department of War, No. 1145
And I do solemnly swear that I was a resident citizen of the United States on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it, as to bring myself within the provisions of an Act of Congress, entitled, "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the Revolutionary War;" and that I have not, nor has any person, in trust for me, any property or securities, contracts or debts due to me, nor have I any income other than what is contained in the Schedule hereto annexed and by me subscribed.
I do further solemnly swear, that I was in the battles of Valenus hill on the 2 nd day of July 1781 having been enlisted under the Authori- ty of the State of Connecticut at that time & joined the regular army as a recruit and as such served from a- bout the 1 st day of May till about the 1 st of November of that year That I am by occupation a Farmer and School master but for seve- ral years past have been unable to acquire any thing by the latter employment

That the number of my family residing with me is three ; and their names and ages are as follows : Naomi Viles aged 60 years and for a person of that age in ordinary health my Daughter Esther Rockwell Wife of Harry Rockwell aged 23 years and her Daughter Nancy Helena Rockwell aged 2 years & 8 months said Harry ever since the 15 th day of October 1818 having been gone to parts unknown and furnished nothing for the support of his said wife and child for more than 12 months and the said Esther being in very ill health I have been and still am at great expence for the support of said Esther & my said Grand daughter Nancy Helena Rockwell and it is still very doubtful whether said Harry will ever return to his said Wife and family and if he should it is more than probable he would come poor and penny less and unable to support them I shall therefore from paternal affection and by the Law of the land be bound to support them said Wife and child of s d Harry (if of ability). I have also one son Geo. H. Viles in the State of New York who by misfortunes unavoidable has become reduced very low and is calling on me for assistance but owing to my other embarrassments I felt wholly unable to give him any relief
Elisha Viles
Sworn to and declared day of June
1820
, before the Court of Common Pleas for the
on the 21 st
J. P. Dike Clk

SCHEDULE annexed to the Declaration and Oath above made and taken before the County Court aforesaid.
   62 Acres of Land Dwelling house & barn at y per acre 558.00   1 Yoke of Oxen one having a wen 35.00   2 Cows with calves 33.00   3 Cattle 2 yrs. Old 34.00   16 Sheep & Lambs at 75. 12.00   1 Shoal 3.50   Farming utensils 12.25   1 Watch 2.00   1 Brass kettle 2.50   Hollow & Iron ware 5.10   Crockery & Glass ware 3.00   Pewter & Tin ware 3.00   Cabinet Ware 8.84   Provision, Cider, dry barrels & wash tubs 5.00   1 Grindstone 1.50   Looking Glasses .37   Books & Pamphlets 4.00   1 Side Saddle 1.00   3 Grain Riddles .50   1 half bushel measure .50   2 Spinning wheels .75   Napkins & Table Cloths 3.00   Spectacles & case .25   Candlesticks knives & forks 2.00   Right in Library 1.00   Provisions, Meat, Flour, & Fowls 9.00   11 lb. Wool 4.62   My debts amount to $417.32 744.74  
Elisha Niles

I Wm. Smith Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for the County of Bucks aforesaid, do hereby certify, that the foregoing Oath and Schedule annex- ed, are truly copied from the record of said Court. And I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said Court, that the total amount in value, of the property exhibited in the aforesaid Schedule, is Seven Hundred & Forty four dollars and Seventy four cents.
IN TESTIMONY whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court, on this 21 day of June - 182 9
Wm. Smith Clerk of P. C.

4147 Connecticut Naomi Niles widow of Elisha who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Private .
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 57 Dollars
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 7th day of Febch 1849 and sent to
Hon. J. R. Hubbard M. C.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 322 Vol. 1.

No 12277
Naomi Miles Mow of Elisha son
13277 Oct. 13. 1845 act 7 July 1838 Married 1783
husband died 18 June 1845
be Naomi Miles and John L. 1838. Columbia Eng Columbia Press Washington
20
noted

State of Connecticut Middlesex County ss Chatham August 29 th A D 1845-
On this 29 th day of August A D 1845 personally appeared before the Court of Probate in and for the District of Chatham being a Court of record, present David Cornwall Esqr Judge holding S d Court, Mrs. Naomi Niles a resident of Chatham in S d County of Middlesex and State of Connecticut aged eighty four years , who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain a pension under the act of 7 th July 1838.
That she is the widow of Elisha Niles deceased who was a private in the war of the Revolutionary Army, and a pension is under the Act of Congress of the 7 th June, 1832 at the rate of fifty one dollars per annum during his natural life. That his pension certificate was dated at the War Office of the United States on the 17 th day of June 1833. For evidence of his services during the War of the Revolution reference can be had to his declaration on file in the War Department.
She further declares that she was married to the said Elisha Niles by the Rev Mr Parsons in the town of Chatham aforesaid on the 16 th day of October 1783. That her husband the aforesaid Elisha Niles died at S d Chatham on the 18 th day of June 1845 and that she has remained a Widow ever since that period as will appear by reference to the proofs accompanying this declaration.
Naomi the Niles - mark
Sworn and subscribed in open Court on the day & year first above written, In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of S d Court
Linus Parmach, Clerk
State of Connecticut Middlesex County ss. Chatham August 29. 1845
Probate Court District of Chatham { Present David Cornwall, Esqr Judge This Court finds from satisfactory evidence that Elisha

Niles was a prisoner of the United States under the act of Congress of the 7th of June 1832 on the roll of the Connecticut agency at the rate of Fifty one dollars per annum - that he was a resident of Chatham in the State of Connecticut - that he died in Chatham on the 18th day of June 1845 - That he left a Widow whose name is Naomi Niles now a resident of Chatham aforesaid and the identical person who has signed the foregoing declaration - And the Court certifies that the statements contained in the foregoing declaration are true.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Court the 29th day of August A.D. 1845.
Simon Parmach, Clerk
With reference to the subject contained in the accompanying papers you will please have the goodness to answer me at your earliest convenience & much oblige
Yours &c J. L. Edwards Com. Pensions
John Stockham Jr. Middle Haddam Ct.

State of Connecticut Middlesex County } ss Chatham Septm 16 th AD 1845-
I Rufus Smith of Chatham in the County of Middlesex in the State of Connecticut, do hereby certify that I have in my possession the Church records of the Congregational Society in East Hampton in said Chatham and on said Records I find by the Rev. Samuel Parsons as first the following Marriage October sixteenth one thousand seven hundred and eighty three Elisha Niles Colchester & Naomi Hckley East Hampton and I certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the record with the exception of the date which is expressed on the record in full legible figures as follows - Oct. 16 th 1783 Married Elisha Niles Colchester & Naomi Hckley East Hampton I Rufus Smith above named depose and say, that I hold the office of a Minister of the Gospel & have the the custody of the Church records in the town County and State aforesaid, and that the above is a true extract from the records of said Congregational Church with the exception above named as certified by me -
Rufus Smith Recently Past- tor of the above- mentioned Church.
Middlesex County ss Chatham Sept 16 th 1845
Personally appeared Rufus Smith and made oath to the truth of the above by him subscriber -
Before me - Wm. C. Smith Justice of the Peace

No 25-053
Elisha Bates Middlesex Connecticut
Admitted Printed 15 mo 9 days \begin{array}{r} 166^2 \\ 253 \\ \hline 494^2 \end{array}
Applicant Chatham E. Hampton Post Office Middlesex Connecticut

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
Sir:
The evidence in support of your claim, under the act of June 7, 1832, has been examined, and the papers are herewith returned. The following is a statement of your case in a tabular form. On comparing these papers with the following rules, and the subjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will show what is necessary to be done. Those points to which your attention is more particularly directed, you will find marked in the margin with a brace, (thus: { ). You will, when you return your papers to this Department, send this printed letter with them; and you will, by complying with this request, greatly facilitate the investigation of your claim.
residents
A Statement, showing the Service of Elisha H. Middlesex Co. Conn
   Period when the service was rendered. Duration of the claimant's service. Rank of the claimant. Names and rank of the Field officers under whom he served. Age at present, and place of abode when he entered the service. Proof by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     Defeated 1779 1 Private Capt Worthington 69 years Living certifies for two   May 80 21 Col Morse Col. 69 ten Med months & had certifies   Defeated July 80 3 substitute Col Thrapp ten Med ten Med   81 7 team Capt. Cone ten Med ten Med   Enl March 82 1 Private Col Richards ten Med ten Med   Col Grover  
I am, respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
J. L. EDWARDS, Commissioner of Pensions.

REGULATIONS UNDER THE ACT OF JUNE 7, 1832.
The following regulations have been adopted:
This law has been construed to extend, as well to the line, as to every branch of the Staff of the Army, and to include under the terms "Continental Line," "State troops," "militia," and "volunteers," all persons enlisted, drafted, or who volunteered and who were bound to military service, but not those who were occasionally employed with the army upon civil contracts, such as Clerks to Commissaries and to Store Keepers, &c., Teamsters, Boatmen, &c. Persons who served on board of private armed vessels are also excluded from the benefits of the law, as well as persons who turned out as patrols, or were engaged in guarding particular places at night, and were not recognized as being in actual military service.
Four general classes of cases are embraced in this law:
 1. The Regular Troops.  2. The State Troops, Militia, and Volunteers.  3. Persons employed in the Naval Service.  4. Indian Spies. 
As rolls of the regular troops in the Revolutionary War exist in this Department, all persons claiming the benefit of this law as officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians or privates, will, in the first instance, make application by transmitting the following declaration, which will be made before a Court of Record of the County where such applicant resides. And every Court having by law a seal and Clerk is considered a Court of Record.
DECLARATION,
In order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress of the 7th of June, 1832.
State, Territory, or District of } ss. County of }
On this _____ day of _____ personally appeared (a) before A. B. a resident (b) of _____ in the county of _____ and State, Territory or District of _____ aged (c) _____ 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 provision made by the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832. That he enlisted in the Army of the United States in the year (d) _____, with _____ and served in the _____ (e) regiment of the _____ line, under the following named officers:
[Here set forth the names and rank of the Field and Company Officers; the time he left the service; (and if he served under more than one term of enlistment, he must specify the particular period, and rank and names of his officers;) the town or county and State in which he resided when he entered the service; the battles, if any, in which he was engaged, and the country through which he marched. [This form is to be varied so as to apply to the cases of officers and persons who belonged to the militia, volunteers, navy, &c.]
He hereby relinquishes every claim (f) whatever to a pension or an annuity, except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency in the State of _____
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid.
A. B.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
And the said Court do hereby declare their opinion (g) that the above named applicant was a revolutionary soldier, and served as he states.
I, _____ of the Court of _____ do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of _____ for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office (i) this _____ day of _____ &c.
If, on examination of the proper record, the names of applicants, making such declaration, cannot be found, they will produce such proof as the rule given in note (j) points out.
Every applicant who claims a pension by virtue of service in the State Troops, Volunteers or Militia, except those who belonged to the New Hampshire Militia and State Troops of Virginia, will make and subscribe a declaration similar to the foregoing, with the following additions, viz:
(k) We, A. B., a Clergyman, residing in the _____ and C. D. residing in (the same) _____ hereby certify, that we are well acquainted with _____, who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be _____ 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.
Sworn and subscribed the days and year aforesaid.
[And then will follow the certificate of the Court.]
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 A. B. who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman, resident in the _____ and that C. D., who has also signed the same is a resident in the _____ and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
I, _____ Clerk of the Court of _____ do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court, in the matter of the application of _____ for a pension.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office, this _____ day of _____ &c.
Every applicant will produce the best proof in his power. This is the original discharge or commission; but if neither of these can be obtained, the party will so state under oath, and will then procure, if possible, the testimony of at least one credible witness, stating in detail his personal knowledge of the services of the applicant, and such circumstances connected therewith, as may have a tendency to throw light upon the transaction.
If such surviving witness cannot be found, the applicant will so state in his declaration, (l) and he will also, whether he produce such evidence or not, proceed to relate all the material facts, which can be useful in the investigation of his claim, and in the comparison of his narrative with the events of the period of his

alleged service, as they are known at the Department. A very full account of the services of each person will be indispensable to a favorable action upon his case. The facts stated will afford one of the principal means of corroborating the declaration of the applicant, if true, or of detecting the imposition, if one be attempted; and unless, therefore, these are amply and clearly set forth, no favorable decision can be expected. All applicants will appear before some Court of Record in the County in which they reside, and there subscribe and be sworn to, one of the declarations above provided, according to the nature of his case.
The Court will propound the following (m) interrogatories to all applicants for a pension, on account of service in the Militia, State troops, or Volunteers, except the Militia of New Hampshire and the State troops of Virginia.
 1. Where and in what year were you born?  2. Have you any record of your age, and if so, where is it?  3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary war, and where do you now live?  4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? And if a substitute, for whom?  5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers, who were with the troops, where you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your services.  6. { To a Soldier. { Did you ever receive a discharge from the service, and if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it? { To an Officer. { Did you ever receive a commission, and if so, by whom was it signed, and what has become of it? 
7. State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution.
The Court will see that the answers to these questions are embodied in the declaration, and they are requested to annex their opinions of the truth of the statement of the applicant.
The applicant will further produce in Court, if the same can be done, in the opinion of the Court, without too much expense and inconvenience to him, two respectable persons—one of whom should be the nearest clergyman, if one lives in the immediate vicinity of such applicant, who can testify, from their acquaintance with him, that they believe he is of the age he represents, and that he is reputed and believed in the neighborhood to have been a Revolutionary soldier, and that they concur in that opinion. If one of these persons is a Clergyman, the Court will so certify, and they will also certify to the character and standing of other persons giving such certificates.
The traditional evidence of service is deemed very important, in the absence of any direct proof, except the declaration of the party. And the Courts are requested to be very particular in the enquiry whether the belief is general, and whether any doubts have ever existed upon the subject.
Applicants unable to appear in Court, by reason of bodily infirmity, may make the declaration before required, and submit to the examination, before a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record of the proper county, and the Judge or Justice will execute the duties, which the Court is herein requested to perform, and will also certify that the applicant cannot, from bodily infirmity, attend the Court.
Whenever any official act is required to be done by a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or by a Justice of the Peace, the certificate of the Secretary of State or Territory, or of the proper Clerk of the Court or County, under his seal of office, will be annexed, stating that such person is a Judge or Justice of a Court of Record, or a Justice of the Peace, and that the signature annexed is his genuine signature.
No payments can be made on account of the services of any person, who may have died before the taking effect of the act of June 7, 1832; and in case of death subsequent thereto, and before the declaration herein required is made, the parties interested will transmit such evidence as they can procure, taken and authenticated before a Court of Record, showing the services of the deceased, the period of his death, the opinion of the neighborhood respecting such services, the title of the claimant, and the opinion of the Court upon the whole matter.
[a] The declarant must appear in open Court, unless prevented from doing so by reason of bodily infirmity; in which case the declarant will follow the rule laid down for his guidance.
[b] The declarant must make his declaration in the county where he resides. If he should fail to do so, he must assign a sufficient reason for not conforming to the rule.
[c] The age of the claimant must invariably be mentioned.
[d] The declarant must mention the period or periods of the war when he served.
[e] Every continental officer or soldier must give the name of the Colonel under whom he served; otherwise a satisfactory examination of the claim cannot be had. Every claimant must 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. 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 each 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. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state that they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours, the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must, in every case, be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
[f] The law makes the relinquishment indispensable.
[g] The opinion of the Court is always required.
[h] The Clerk must give his certificate in every case.
[i] The Clerk must affix his seal, and if it has no device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal, or if he has no public seal of office, the certificate of a Member of Congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other papers authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends 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.
Proof of Service.
[j] 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 claimant's 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.
[k] The notes from [a] to [j] are all equally applicable to the cases of Militia men, Volunteers and State Troops. The proof required by rule in note [j] applies to continental troops only.
[l] This traditional evidence is indispensable in militia cases.
[m] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[n] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.
John N. Ashton

From the papers in the Revolutionary War pension claim, W.26577 , it appears that Elisha Niles (son of Nathan Niles) was born February 29, 1764 at Colchester, Connecticut.
While residing at said Colchester, he enlisted and
-3-
served as a private with the Connecticut Troops as follows:
From in September, 1779, one month in Captain Elijah Worthington's Company, Colonel Jeremiah Mason's Regiment; in the spring of 1780, three weeks in Captain Stephen Brainard's Company, Colonel Dyer Throop's Regiment; from July, 1780, three or four months in Captain Daniel Cone's Company, Colonel Richards' Regiment; from the spring of 1781, seven months as a teamster under Captain Obadiah Barber and was at the battle of Valentine's Hill; from March 24, 1782, twelve months in Captain Simon Spalding's Company, Colonel Grosvenor's Regiment.
He was allowed pension on his application executed April 15, 1818. at which time he was living at Chatham, Connecticut. He died there June 18, 1845.
Jonathan Dala L. Chas. R. Hale Accs.

no 117. Connecticut
Naomi Niles, widow of Elisha Niles, who was a private, in the Connecticut line
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 57 Dollars
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1844. 18th: June, 1845.
Certificate of Pension issued the 15 day of Nov: 1845- and sent to John Markham jr Middle Haddam, Ct: —
[Act of JUNE 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book H Vol. 1 — Page 89.
Let to G. D. Hubbard Mch 2.49
Report

Connecticut
No. 7,145
Elisha Miles Capt Spalding Private 4 Connecticut Line
In the army of the United States during the Revolutionary War.
Inscribed on the Roll of Connecticut at the rate of 8 Dollars per month, to commence on the 15 th of April, 1818.
Certificate of Pension issued the 30. of June 1818, and sent to S. Titus Horner, Esq. Middletown, Conn.
Arrears to 4th of Sept. 1818. Semi-ann. all'ce ending 4 months 20/30. $ 37.33
{ Revolutionary claim, } { Act 18th March, 1818. }
.82 On Year
Adams & Co.

see letters to G. H. Niles, 16 March, May 8. 24 3 June 1829
Capt. G. H. Niles 17 April 1823
Not entitled to a pension under the law of 1 May 1820. Not paid to John Dick 5 July 1820. Middletown, Connecticut

We The Subscribers do certify that Elisha Niles of Chatham a Revolutionary Pensioner under the act of of Congress of the 7 th of June 1832 died at said Chatham on the 18 th day of June A.D. 1845 —
Ambrose H. Markham
Hiram Markham
John Markham
Middlesex County ss- Chatham Sept d 15.. 1845 }
Personally appeared the signers of the above Certificate and made oath to the truth of the same —
Before me Nath l O. Smith Justice of the Peace

No 12277 Naomi Niles Maw of Eliza Con act 7 July 1838 Rejctd, husband decd 1845 2dm o act 17 June 1844 15mo 9 days in $57 00 per ann. jun 18 June 1845
John Markham Middle Hadam Con

Chatham June 29 th 1832 To the Honorable Secretary of War or Secretary of the Treasury, or whom it may concern - That we the Undersigned - having for a Number of years been well acquainted with Elisha Niles of Chatham - Middlesex County & State of Connecticut - (a Soldier of the Revolution) who is by the late Act of Congress entitled to receive a Pension for his services performed in that war - And as there is no particular mode of Proof pointed out by said Act - more than the Hon Secretary of War or Treasury shall be fully satisfied as it respects the truth of facts - As Character of the Claimant - We do feel willing to say - that we consider him - a man of Truth & Veracity - whose Testimony or Affidavit, would & ought to be received in any Court of Record - where he is acquainted
Amasa Daniels Jr
John Markham Jr
Warren A. Skinner
Homer Cole
Giles C. Hall (Member of the Baptist Church)
Huntington Selden
(Member of the Congregational Church - in Middle Haddam)
Noah Brooks
Joel Bradford
(Member of the Congregational Church in Middle Haddam)
Diodate B West
As to Amasa Daniels - for many years justice of the peace in Chatham John Markham - Jr - Member of Gen Assembly last Session - in 1832 Warren A. Skinner - Deacon of the Presbyterian Church in East Hampton - And for many years a Select man - for the Town of Chatham - Noah Brooks - justice of the peace for the Town of Chatham Diodate B West - justice of the peace & Deacon of the Presbyterian Church in East Hampton Homer Cole - Giles C. Hall - Huntington Selden & Joel Bradford - All men of good character & Respectable Inhabitants - the truth - if necessary may be established by the Probate Judge & several clergymen in the Town -
As all of the Above Gentlemen have been well acquainted with me for 30-or 40 years past & know that I was always known & reputed a Revolutionary Soldier - I remain with due Respect Your Obedient Servant Elisha Niles - an Old Soldier

Middle Haddam Ct. FILE Feb. 7th 182
To the Honorable War Department City of Washington United States
Per the case of James L Edwards Esq. Pension Office

To the Honorable Secretary of War As whom it may concern This may certify that we the Undersigned Subscribers = Being Requested by Elisha Niles (a Soldier of the Revolution) (who was Incribed on the pension List Roll of the Connecticut Agency - In conformity with the Law of the United States of the 18 th March 1818 And was struck off Under the Law of May 1 st 1820) - And in conformity to a Notice given by the Hon Peter B Porter Secretary of War Dated December 26 - 1828 - to be the Rule in future) have Agreed to Our Best Judgment As Disinterested Neighbors Attended to his Request - And find his property to consist of    A small house with a Barn -  And About 21 Acres & an half of Land worth -  Dolls 420    One 3 year old Heifer coming 48  One 2 year old coming 8 worth -  0 34    One Shoat - worth -  4 Dolt 6 Hens 1 Dolt -  0 05     Total  $ 459  
And are fully satisfied that it is all the property he owns clear of Debt exclusive of Household Furniture & Farming Utensils &c which are few Dated at Chatham this 6 th Day of February A 1829.
Roderick Ackley
Justus Bolles
Chatham Middlesex County S t State of Connecticut February 9 th A 1829 Personally Appeared the Above Named Justus Bolles & Roderick Ackley & made solemn Oath that they have appraised the property of Elisha Niles a Revolutionary Soldier to the full Amount in cash - And Likewise know him to be the same Elisha Niles that was Incribed on the Pension List Roll of the Connecticut Agency In conformity with the Law of the United States of the 18 th of March - 1818 - And struck off Under the Law of May 1 st 1820 - Being both Freeholders & Credible Witnesses Before Any Court of Record
Before Me
Ezra Lee Justice of the Peace

aw Mar. 13, 1919.
Mrs. W. H. Williams, 115 Atwater Ave. Derby, Conn.
Madam:
In reply to your letter of the 10" instant, you are advised that the Revolutionary War records of this Bureau fail to afford any information in regard to Elisha Niles who was born in 1750 and died in 1813 and left a widow Sarah.
The Revolutionary War pensioner of Conn. under the Act of June 7, 1833, named Elisha Niles, did not die until 1845 and he left a widow Naomi, and therefore is not the the subject of your inquiry.
Very respectfully,
E. C. Tienan
Acting Commissioner.

Rev. War Section.
Rev. Sea m
115 Atwater Ave. Derby, Conn. March 10th. 1919.
U.S. Pension Office,
Washington, D.C.
Gentlemen:-
Will you please send me a certified copy in duplicate of the Revolutionary record of Elisha Niles of Connecticut, who according to the records, was a pensioner in 1832.
The Elisha Niles in whom I am interested was born Jan. 26, 1750, and died Feb. 17, 1812. His widow-Sarah Niles - was born Aug. 16, 1747, and died March 12, 1832.
I am assuming she received her husband's pension until her death.
You will greatly oblige,
Yours truly.
Helen B. Williams (Mrs. N. H.)

Rev
WIDOW, &c.
File No. 26577
Nancy Miles
Wid of
Elisha Miles
Brin Ken was
Act Feb 2nd 1848
Index: Vol. M , Page 86
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Mar. 13/33 Paul Haspe Halford St. Louis, Mo. Chas. F. Joy. 1919 Mar 13. Mrs. W. H. Williams att. of date of sol. death & name of widow etc. aw
to C. A. Mrs. H. M. E.
1929 Jan. 2 - Tombstone Data L. Chas. R. Hale - See letter in Abel Abell 5.11.1930 aw.

Declaration
In order to obtain the benefits of the Act of Congress of 2 nd February 1848 entitled "An Act making further provision for surviving widows and Soldiers of the Revolution."
State of Connecticut } ss.
County of Middlesex }
On this 5 th day of October 1848 before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid personally appeared Naomi Niles a resident of Chatham in the County of Middlesex in the State of Connecticut Aged Eighty eight years: who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 2 nd February 1848, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War That she is the widow of Elisha Niles who was a private in the Revolutionary Army. That she received a pension under the act of 17 th June 1844 at the rate of Fifty One dollars per annum. She further declares that she is still a widow
Sworn to & subscribed on the } day & year above written }
Naomi her Niles marks
Before me Huntington Selden } Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that I am personally acquainted with the above declarant, and she is the same individual who drew a pension as stated in the foregoing declaration. Huntington Selden Justice of the Peace
I hereby certify that Huntington Selden is a justice of the Peace for the State of Connecticut & that the above signature is in his handwriting John D. Hubbardston Mar 3 rd 1849

County of Middlesex ss Chatham State of Connecticut
On this 24 th Day of March A D 1829 Personally Appeared before me a Justice of the Peace for the County of Middlesex State of Connecticut the undersigned Elisha Niles a President of said County who being duly sworn according to Law doth Depose and say, that he is the same person who served in the Revolutionary War in the Company commanded by Captain Simon Spalding of the first Connecticut Regiment commanded by Colonel Thomas Gookins Governor of the Line of the State of Connecticut. That he received a pension under the Act of March 18 th 1818 but his name was struck off or dropped from the Pension Roll on account of the amount of his property which was valued at less than $960.00. And he now applies to be restored in consequence of the regulations of the War Department of the 26 th December 1828 having at this time the following named property being worth no more than the sum below mentioned. He also claims that he before applied to be restored, but his claim was rejected on account of the amount of his property. Elisha Niles the schedule of his property as appraised by Bradburn H. Niles and Justus Boller on or about the 7 th Day of February 1829 transmitted to your Department he declares to be as follows. $3
Schedule
  One Small House And Barn - And About 21 Acres And an half of Land -  Appraised at =  420 Dollars    One 2 year old Heifer coming 3 -   0 34    (And 1, 3 year old Cows 4 at 17 Dols each)   0 68    One Shoat 4 Dols & 6 Fowls one Dollar   0 06    Being all the Land & Building Stock he owned at said time =   $ 4 59  
Sworn to before me this 24 th day of March in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and twenty nine Ira Lee Justice of the Peace

State of Connecticut County of Middlesex } I John Fisk clerk of the county courts for said county of Middlesex do certify that Ira Lee Esq was on the 24 th day of March instant now a Justice of the Peace within and for said county of Middlesex as per commission on file in my office and that his name subscribed to the within certificate is his proper hand writing and signature
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 28 th day of March A D 1829 J. Fisk Clk of the Court
Please to direct the return of the within named appointment of Susha Dimes to him at Chatham Middlesex Post-off. con

To the Honorable War Department City of Washington U States Being Unable to employ Attorneys without Injury to myself & Family I take the Liberty to State a few Facts - for Information Although I expect my former communications sent by the Honorable Stephen Hosmer Chief Judge of the State of Connecticut - especially my Original enlistment as a Soldier - In the Connecticut Line of the Continental Army for Twelve Months from the 24 th of March 1822 [I would have said the exact Copy of my enlistment And Likewise my Discharge from Brigadier Gen. Huntington Dated I shall say March 8 th 1823 - Reference to the Documents now in the War Department from which Testimony I received a pension Certi- cate from the Hon J C Calhoun Secretary of War Dated June 30 th 1818 commenced payment on the 15 of April 1818 - I was struck of the List Under the Act of May 1 1820 with a number of other Contours that I was worth more than 100 Dollars Including all & every kind of Property except Wearing Apparel Bedding - Including farming Stock, Books, provisions &c, Sharp Chaving of Revolutionary Soldiers the Attorney General will never receive thanks for his construing the meaning of the pension Law - As he did - to the ruin of many of the most Deserving Soldiers of the Revolution - I applied the same time & sent by Ebenezer Dorr Attorney at Law when I was struck of - he asked me 4 Dollars for reading my schedule & my expenses to the County or Superior Court Including fees to the Judges - Support of Evidence &c And my fees to Judge Hosmer was more than I am now Able to pay - without distressing my family - As the Honorable Peter B Porter has not mentioned any other mode of procedure than to prove the present State of property, & to prove identity - I have attended to that Method, which I hope will be Satisfactory - If not I wish immediate Information - that I may proceed accordingly, I would wish if I obtain a New pension Certificate that it may be Directed to Eliza Niles - Chatham, State of Connecticut to be Left at Middle Haddam Post Office - I hope the Hon War Depart- ment will see fit to Date my pension Certificate back - And never ought to have been struck of - As I never was worth 500 Dollars clear of Debt Since the Revolutionary war - I have aged to be in her 69 th year I remain with Sentiments of respect - Eliza Niles

Chatham April 30th 1833 To James S. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions (Dear Sir I have to inform you that I received your letter of the 17th of April together with my papers forwarded by Judge Cornstock to obtain my Pension - you wrote me that the Only Service mentioned in my Original Decla- ration. Under the Act of 1818 proper and Under my Enlistment into the Continental Army on the 24th of March 1782. As the Only Service - you think proper to allow without further proof. I suppose you would recollect that it was not required to make proof under that Act of more than 9 Months Service at one time to obtain a Pension of 40 dollars a year - for which cause I stated Only my years Service in the Continental Army - which was as good for me as to prove 7 years Service you state this will be allowed without further proof. As I presume you will find the copy of my Enlistment & my Original Discharge in the War Office But I Am much at a Loss for your Rejecting my Other Claims on the Militia Service performed at New London & Connecticut - I suppose it is impossible to make better proof than my first Service performed in September 1779 in Capt. Elyah Northrop's Company Col. Jeremiah Mason's Regt at New London where I served One month as a Substitute for my Father Nathan (Sister) of Colchester a Town adjoining New London, As I forwarded you the Evidence or Affidavit of Lieut. David Spence the Only Person that I know living that was in the Company at that time - Although 83 years of Age Still is possessed of sound mind & memory & has testified that he remembers that it was a Soldier in the Company - his Affidavit was given before Oziar Holmes Esq. of East Haddam a Justice of the Peace for Middlesex County - who has certified that the of Lieut. David Spence is a credible Witness & well known to him - he is a Neighbor to him Wm. Thomas (Day Esq. Secretary of the State of Connecticut) has certified that the  above Oziar Holmes is a Justice of the Peace for the Town of East Haddam County of Middlesex this Service is considered by the best Law Characters & Judges of the Act of June 7th 1832 to be completely proof - as a Certificate from a Commission Officer is the best possible proof of Service The Service performed in the Spring of 1780 in New London when the Militia was called out as an Alarm being but 3 weeks - I should let pass had it not heard that the 21 Days wanting to complete my years Service in the Continental Army would be deducted which ought not; As I was in a Select party at Newburgh near New London Station Staff Department from Nov 1782 until March 3rd 1783 Cutting & having wood for Gen. Washington's Staff Department Life Guard & Lived in a tent all winter - I found the 21 Days by Extraordinary Circumstances Exertions - was Discharged without making any Request - having performed the Duty expected to be done by the 3rd of March - was Oblige'd to sell my Great Coat to buy a pair of shoes - when the Order issued from my dated feet, As I drew no Clothing - though promised them when I Enlisted The Service performed in the Summer & Autumn of 1780 in New London & Pockahannock in the town of Preston In Col. Richards Regiment I have stated to be but 3 Months - Others have stated the same Service 4 Months 3 of whom viz Elyah Atell Ichabod Bailey & Hendrick Cole who has obtained a Pension Certificate I understand have testified that they served 4 Months If they did, I did, if they did I did - As they was in Col. Wyllys Regt Capt. Daniel Stewart's Company - & lay on the Left of our Regt - which was Com- manded by Col. Richards of Watertown Christian name have forgot or never knew my Captain was Daniel Cane - who performed the Duty of Major - & the Company was both known generally by the name of Major Cane's Company - the Doctor & Surgeon of the Regiment was Doctor Todd - who I never shall forget As I was Sick about one Month before the Regt was Discharged - & given over by the Doctors to Die - the other Doctor's name I don't mistake not was None of Col. Wyllys Regt who - sometimes call with Dr. Todd to see the Sick in the Hospital House - I was Left Sick when the Regt was Discharged or Left the Encampment we Lived in Tents this Campaign - my Father came after me & helped me home

I know of but one man living in the State of Connecticut that was in the company that I was, viz William Welch for 30 or 40 years past an Elder of the Baptist Church in Chatham to which I have belonged about 43 years - but as he is now 80 years or upwards of age cannot Vafely Testify that he knew me - Nor that I knew him As he was 12 or 14 years older than I - in short I cannot recollect any of the company except my Mess or Tent mates who I believe are all dead - or gone to Parts Unknown as it is 53 years ago this Summer & Autumn that I performed this Service - Elder Wm Welch & I at that time both belonged to the Town of Colchester, & Colchester & East Haddam Comf'd Mazer Jones Company - this was a (Draft) & I was a Substitute for my Uncle Ambrose Diley who was drafted as a Corporal - and it being inconvenient to go himself - Agreed with my father to let me go & take his place - which I did Now Sir If Substitutes are Entitled to pay for their Services - I Consider as do Others, that the Statement & proof forwarded by Judge Comstock, (which has been Returned - is in strict conformity to the Regulations prescribed & Adopted by the Secretary of War) for bearing into effect the Act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832 be As I have stated my Age As given me by my parents - The Different times of Service & Officers Under whom I served & period that I served - The first Service proved by the Affidavit of Lieut David Spencer the Only Survivor of the Company - whose character is completely established as good - by a justice of the Peace his Neighbor - As Jas Holmes Esq & Thomas Day Esq Secretary of State has Given a printed Certificate that As Jas Holmes is a justice of peace for Middlesex county And to my other Militia Services in the 8 Months Service in the year 1780 I have stated the time of Service the Officers Under whom I served &c &c & have the Testimony of the Revd William Welch a Clergyman of the Town of Chatham & of Mayor Olsted Gates for many years a Deputy Sheriff for the County of Middlesex, who have Given both that they are well Acquainted with me & believe me to be 69 years of age And that I am Reputed, & believed in the Neighborhood where I reside to have been a Soldier of the Revolution & that they concur in that Opinion & the Judge has Also Certified that after due Investigation of the Matter & after putting the Interrogatories of the War Department - that I was a Revolutionary Soldier &c And that William Welch who has Signed the Above Certificate is a Clergyman in the Town of Chatham & that Olsted Gates who has Also Signed the Same is a President in the Town of Chatham - is a credible person And that their Statement is Entitled to Credit - the Clerk of the Court Likewise has Certified the foregoing contains the Original proceedings of the said Court &c &c
As it respects the term Service performed in 1781 - I am not certain, that it was thought of, or Represented - when the Act of June 7 th 1832 was passed - though in Justice was as reasonable as the other - As we Enlisted for a certain time & was with the Continental Army & endured more hardship than the Troops of the Line I have had Cart or Wagon Loaded with the Dead & Wounded & went with the American & French Army - that Captain Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown was in the Service not less than 7 Months - But if the President & Secretary of War do not Consider this Service Entitled to any reward as a pension - I Request you to Strike it out - As I expect there will be a Special Petition Presented to Congress on the Next Session - & I suppose it would have been brought forward the Last Session -

Dear Sir I must soon close my letter - which contains Absolute Truth And hope that you will be fully Satisfied - As I consider the declaration forwarded to you - after striking out the term Service - to be in conformity of the Act of Congress - passed June 7th 1832 - Or I do not understand it Same where in the State of New York I have heard that a man by the Name of Abisha Penfield who was sick with me in the Hospital - in the 8 Months Service in 1780 - was living not long ago - the distance - 4 or 500 Miles - Probably the expense would be more than the benefit: And probably he might not be living. And that where we have the testimony of a Glengary man & one more Respect- able inhabitant - with whom the judge is well acquainted it is not required Terms of Service performed - Performance had to my Declaration - forwarded    In 1799 - In Col Mason Regt Capt Huntington Company  1 Month    In 1780 - In Col Troops Regt Capt Brainerd Company  8 Weeks    In 1780 in Col Richards Regt Capt or Major Conner Company  3 Months 10 Days    In 1782 & 1783 In Col Greenwood Regt Continental Army  11 months     Total 16 Months  
(Exclusive of Team Service) 7 months There is a Number that have stated in their Declaration forwarded to you that they served 4 months in 1780 at New London Ct where I have stated but 3 Months If they are Right - it is 4 - but I dare not say that I served but 3 months If Substitutes are entitled - As is presumed they be - I consider my claims for 16 Months - a clear case
As I send you enclosed the Names of a Number of the Respectable Men, As they in the Town of Chatham - wrote soon after the Act passed June 7th, 1832 before any certain mode of proof was pointed out by the Secretary of War - to obtain our pensions - As you will please lay what weight to it you please I hope I shall have the pleasure soon to receive my Pension Certificate for not less than 16 Months - As my Necessities require it now if ever - three Years where I live have Deed since they apply - & have never had any Certificate (Viz Isaac Johnson - Enock Smith & Samuel Brown I remain with due Respect & Consideration Elisha Niles
James L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions
Pls please to Direct my Pension Certificate to me, As soon As convenient Directed to Chatham East Hampton Post Office Connecticut If you are not satisfied with the Declaration - Affidavits - Profile After striking out the term Service write me Immediately -

State of Connecticut, ss. Middletown,
a.
On this fifteenth day of April 1818, before me the subscriber, one of the Judges of the Superior Court for the State of Connecticut, personally appears Elisha Niles aged fifty five years, resident in Chatham in the said State, who being by me first duly sworn, according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the late act of Congress, entitled, "An Act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States in the revolutionary war:" That he the said Elisha Niles on the 24th day of March 1782, enlisted in Rochester in the state of Connecticut in the company commanded by Captain Simon  Shaloling , of and in the regiment commanded by Brigadier General Thomas Gage , and in the brigade commanded by Genl. Frederick William von Riedesel
that he continued to serve in the said corps, or in the service of the United States until the third day of March 1783 , when he was discharged from service at Westpoint in the state of New York , that he was in the battles of Valentine's Hill on the 2d of July 1781 , then being in the Continental Service ,
and that he is in reduced circumstances, and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support ; and that he has no other evidence now in his power of his said services.
Sworn to and declared before me, the day and year aforesaid.
Henry Noyes
I, Stephen Fitch Hooper Judge of the Superior Court for the State of Connecticut, do certify, that it appears to my satisfaction, that the said Elisha Niles did serve in the revolutionary war, as stated in the preceding declaration, against the common enemy ; and I now transmit the proceedings and testimony taken and had before me, to the Secretary for the Department of War, pursuant to the directions of the aforementioned act of Congress.
Connecticut, ss. Middletown April 15th 1818.
Stephen Fitch Hooper

State of Connecticut, ss. Middletown,
C. ON this 15 day of April 1818, before me the Subscriber, one of the Judges of the Superior Court for the State of Connecticut, personally appears John Niles of Chatham in the said State, who being by me first duly sworn according to law doth, on his oath, declare and say, that he is well acquainted with John Niles of Chatham aforesaid the person who made the preceding declaration on oath, and
and that he is in reduced circumstances, and stands in need of the assistance of his country for support. Sworn to and declared before me the day and year aforesaid.
John Niles

I John Hick Clerk of the Peace for the County of ... do hereby certify that the above copy of the ... is a true copy of the original now on file in my office and that the signature of the said ... is his proper hand and signature.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said County, at ... to witness, on this 22nd day of May 1818.
W. ... Clerk
Adm. & Co. Correct

Cobleskill Dist. April 27. 1878-
Personally appeared Roger B. Buckley Esq. of Cobleskill and made solemn oath that the within written instrument by him subscribed is a true copy of the original instrument of Elisha Viles - & that full faith & credit ought to be given to the same as such - sworn before me - Samuel A. Peters Justice of the Peace for Schoharie County
I certify that I have examined the within instrument and find the same to be a true copy of the original instrument of Elisha Viles - and that full faith & credit ought to be given to the same as such - sworn before me - Samuel A. Peters Justice of the Peace for Schoharie County
Elisha Viles Elisha Viles a short leave in the Co. Court May whose terms of Indictment for theft on the 21 st Instant - is now in course for a dis- charge -
March 3, 1885
B. Genl Huntington
Discharged Huntington N.Y.

I Elisha Giles of Colchester Do I enlist my self a Soldier to Serve In the Connecticut Line for the term of twelve Months From the Date for the Seventh Class of the town of Colchester As Witness My hand Elisha Giles March 24 th A 1782
To the Above is a true Copy of the Original Enlistment Roger Prudden S d of the above Class
Elisha Giles Discharge
Garrison West Point March 24 1783