Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W 4768, for Britain Powel, North Carolina

SERVICE
NUMBER
Nb
Powel, Britan Powell, Briton
N 4768
Mary
CONTENTS

31,890 North Carolina
Agent notified } see letter 12 Oct. '41. }
Letter to P. Murphy 13 th Nov 1841.
Briton Powell, dec d payable to Mary Powell, widow of Duplin Co. in the State of North Carolina who was a Pri. of Cav. in the company commanded by Captain Stallings of the regt. comm d by Col. Kennon in the N. C. line for 1 year
Inscribed on the Roll of N. Carolina at the rate of 50 Dollars — Cents per annum, to commence on the 4 th day of March, 1831. to 13 th Oct. 1838, the time of his death.
Certificate of Pension issued the 12 th day of October 1841 and sent to Patrick Murphy, Kenansville, N. C.
Arrears to the 4 th of 13. Oct. 1838 $ 380. 41
Pension allowance ending
{ Revolutionary Pension, } { Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by D. Brown Clerk, Book E. Vol. 6 th Page 69.

Benton Powele
21/1/75
[Faint mirrored handwriting from the reverse side of the page]
[Faint mirrored handwriting from the reverse side of the page]
Declaration

State of North Carolina } Duplin County }
1
On this the twentythird day of November AD 1832 personally appeared before Alfred Ward and William M Rivenbark, two of the acting Justices of the Peace in for the County of Duplin aforesaid Briton Powell a resident of said County of Duplin and State of North Carolina aged about ninety two years, who being first first duly sworn according to law, took on his oath make the following declaration, 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 Col. James Heman, Major John Moulton
That he entered the service under Captain Shadrach Hallings, Lieutenant Elijah Bowen and he thinks Clifton Bowen Ensign, that he does not recollect the day, month, or year, when he entered the service, but that it was in the Spring or first of the Summer because he had not finished his crop, but thinks it was in the Spring or Summer of 1777 or 1778, because he had been in service, he thinks one year or more before Gen. Gates and his army passed through this State that he rather believes it was in 1778, that his entrance into the service was called enlisting though perhaps more properly speaking he was a Volunteer ; that he was a light horseman, that he engaged for three months, that he was in no battle while in this service, that he rendezvoused in the first place at Duplin old Court House now Duplin Old Court House

that he received orders to join Col. Hawkins' 2 army at Major Richards Clanton's, now Sampson Court House, called Clanton's, which orders were obeyed that his marches were principally up and down the Little and Great Cohasset and on the South East side of Black River in pursuit of a company of Tories headed by Bigby Mobley who commanded the then largest body of Tories in South Carolina that at the above named place near Clanton's then the residence of Major Richards Clanton, Col David Dod, and Lieutenant Spillars also joined Col Haw- kins' army, being a body of Cavalry and marched in pursuit of the Tories, that he marched back through Sishon, that he does not recollect the number of terms of service that he served under Capt. Shadrach Stallings, but that he continued in the service from the time he first entered until the end of war excepting one term, that in this term he hired one Lewis Lensear to take his place on account of the ill health of his wife, that during this term he also served, in what was then called the Minute Service, that so soon as one term of service expired, he volunteered or enlisted he thinks under the above named officers for two or more terms.
That he entered the service again under Cap- tain Frederick Wells, Elijah Bowers Lieutenant, he thinks, Clopton Bowers Ensign, that he does not recollect the day, month, or year when he entered this service he thinks he entered this service in the spring of the year, that his entrance into this service was after Gen. Galt's Army had marched through this State, that it was called enlisting though more properly he was a volunteer in what was then called the Minute Service

That he thinks he served under Capt Wills and the aforenamed officers twelve or eighteen months, renewing his tours, as often as they expired that he does not recollect whether, in this service his tours were longer than three months or whether they were for six months, that his marches were principally within the County of Dublin for the purpose of routing Tories and for preventing the loss of property.
That he entered the service again under the following named officers Col James Henan Major John Moulton, Captain Aaron Williams Lieutenant Joseph Williams, John Goff Esq. that he does not recollect the day the month or year when he entered this term of service he thinks it was in the month of August, and after Gen. Gort's defeat, that he left this term of service under Captain Aaron Williams in March if his memory serveth him aright, that he resided in Dublin County as well in this, as in all the service he performed that his entrance in this service was called entering though perhaps more properly speaking he was a volunteer, that he engaged he thinks for six months, that he was in no battle while in this service but that he marched at one time to Island Creeks and from thence to Maywell creeks and thence up the North East River in pursuit the Tories and returned back nearly the same route home, that soon after this he marched the same route again in pursuit of the Tories, and that he marched several times to those Creeks viz Island and Maywell and up the North East River and to Doctors Creek, the dividing line between

Duplin & New Hanover Counties, that he was present and assisted in taking seven Tories, prisoners at the house of Mrs Mary Devane on Black River in New Hanover County, that they were carried to Duplin Old Court House and kept under guard for several days and from thence they were sent to Halifax Jail that he marched down the North East River towards Wilmington to recon- noitre the British lines, that at a place called the Reed House about twelve miles from Wilming- ton he met with Generals Rutherford and Butler, that he joined their Regiments and marched with them to Newbern the distance being about ninety or one hundred miles as a guard to their baggage wagons, that on his way back to Duplin he heard of the Capture of Lord Cornwallis and his army at Yorktown Virginia, that he received this intelligence soon after he had crossed Trent River, that Generals Rutherford and Butler were united, that officers, that he served with Captain Hardy Holmes of the Continental Line at Duplin Court House now Duplin Old Court House two or three weeks, that he marched with Generals Rutherford and Butler Regiments from the Reed House in New Hanover County on the North East River to Newbern that previous to his march to Newbern he met Col. William Washington of the Continental Line, that he there joined Col. Washingtons Regiment who in a short time marched towards South Carolina, that he knew Generals, Rutherford, Butler, Col. William Washington

55 And Capt Hardy Holmes all of the Continental Line, that he has no documentary evidence that he can prove five or six months of his last service under Captain Aaron Williams, Joseph Williams Lieutenant, John Goff Conigre by Stephen Williams Sgt. Soldiers of the revolution, James Blantons
My Friend Capt. J. P. [?] I have the honor to send you the enclosed list of the names of the soldiers of the Revolution who were members of the First Baptist Church in Bristol, Rhode Island.
My Friend S.P. Fitzpatrick Esq. Alfred Wanda Mr. Stephen Williams a Soldier of the Revolution appeared as a witness in behalf of Britton Powell an applicant for the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832 being duly sworn according to law, oath on his oath make the following declaration, That I Stephen Williams of the County of Duplin and State of North Carolina aged fifty eight years, found, when I entered the United States Service under Col James Kenan, Major John Coates, Lieutenant Joseph Williams Captain Aaron Williams, Lieutenant Joseph Williams, and John Goff Ensign, Britton Powell in service under the above named officers, that I was personally acquainted with him before I found him in the Service of the United States, that he served with me from the time I entered the service until the expiration of the war, that I was with him and recollect that he marched down the North East River in Newbern County to a place called the Red House on Roachey Point about twelve or fifteen miles from Wilmington, that he was present when I met Col. Williams Washington's Army, that after Col Washington's Army marched towards South Carolina, he returned back to Duplin County, that I served with him in several routes up and down Island Creek, Matwell Creek and up the North East River.

6 in Duplin County, that he marched down the North East River in New Hanover County to a  to a second time to a place called the Red House on Rocky Point to meet Generals Rutherford and Butler's Regiments, that he marched with their Regiments to Newbern as a guard to their baggage wagons, that as we returned from Newbern, soon after we crossed Trent River we received intelligence of the capture of Lord Cornwallis at Yorktown Virginia, that he was with us at Duplin Court House after Duplin old Court House in company with Captain Hardy Holmes of the Continental line, that he was present and assisted in taking seven British prisoners at the house of one Mrs Mary DeBane on Black River in New Hanover County
These are the general circumstances that I recollect relative to the service of Britton Powell. I do not recollect the day, month, or year when I found him in the service, but think it was in the sum- mer, that we were discharged together at Cape Williams, that I do not recollect how long he served but think it was five six or seven months, because I found him in the service when I first entered it in the summer, that he served until the ensuing spring when peace was made, I do not know how long he had been in the service when I entered it.
Wm Rivinbark J.P.
Stephen Williams
Alfred Wanda J.P. He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the pres- ent and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of any the agency of any State
Wm Rivinbark J.P.
Britton Powell
Alfred Wanda J.P.
Interrogatories proposed by us Alfred Wanda & William W Rivinbark two of the Justices of the Peace in and for the County of Duplin

to Britton Powell an applicant for a pen- sion on account of Revolutionary Services
1 st Where and in what year were you born? Ans In Virginia the County is not recollected, & I believe in the year 1740, or thereabouts.
2 nd Have you any records of your age & if so where is it? Ans I have no records of my age, but recollect from what my older brothers have told me respecting it.
3 rd Where were you living living when called into service where have you lived since the Revo- lutionary war and where do you now live? Ans, When called into service I lived in Duplin County, Since the Revolutionary war I have lived in Duplin County and still live in Duplin County.
4 th How were you called into service Ans I enlisted or volunteered in all my service.
5 th State the names of some of the regular officers who were with the troops where you served, such Continental & militia regi- ments as you can recollect and the gen- eral circumstances of your services.
Ans I knew Capt Harry Holmes General Rutherford & Butler Col Hawkins all of the Continental Line and served with their regiments. That I knew Col David Captains John Deane and Capt Phippin and served with their regiments separately a few days all of the North Carolina Militia. The General Circumstances of my service is stated in the preceding

6 th Did you ever receive a discharge from the service; and if so, by whom was it given and what has become of it
Ans I was discharged by verbal orders many times during my services by Captains Stallings Wells and Williams, but received no written discharges
7 State the names of persons to whom you are known in your present neighbourhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a soldier of the Revolution?
Mrs Rev William Wells Rev George W. Harkness Rev William Bland James Newton David Wells Alfred Ward Esq William W. Riverbark Esq, and others I could name
We George W. Harkness a clergyman Residing in the County of Duplin NC and William Bland Residing in the same, hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Boston Powell who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration, that we believe him to be about ninety two years of age, that he is reputed and believed in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a soldier of Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Sworn to & subscribed the day & year aforesaid
Test Wm. Riverbark Esq
Alfred Ward Esq
George W. Harkness his William Bland mark
And we the said Alfred Ward and William Riverbark two of the acting Justices of

of the Peace in & for the County of Duplin 9 aforesaid, do hereby declare our 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 her States. And we do also certify that it appears to us, that, George W. Haf- ham who has signed this preceding certif- —icate and in fact it is known to us that he is a clergyman resident in the County of Duplin N. C. and that William Bland who has also signed the same credible persons is an resident of Duplin County N. C. also and that their statement is entitled to credit. And we do further certify that the aforesaid applicant Briton D. Dool cannot from bodily infirmity attend Court We also certify that the statement of Stephen— Williams is entitled to credit and James Blanton is entitled to credit
Wm. Rivinbark J.P.
Alfred Ward J.P.

Elijah Powell the son of Brittain Powell and Mary Powell His was born October the 21 st 1817 Elijah Powell was born January the 29 th 1818 Brittain Devan Powell, son of Elisha and Mary Powell was born October 19, 1850. Polly Powell was born Nov. 15,

THE NEW TESTAMENT Of our LORD and SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST,
Translated out of the ORIGINAL GREEK.
And with the former
TRANSLATIONS
Diligently Compared and Revised,

W. B. Payb June 26 '46
Rep 14
7616. N. Carolina
May Powell, widow of Britow Powell, who was a private of Cavalry, in the North Carolina line.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of— 50 Dollars —
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 13 day of March, 1846. and sent to J. L. & A. J. Smith,
Present.
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
8-17 June, 1844
Recorded in Book A Vol. 2 Page 159-

✓ Declaration of Mary Lowell widow of Britton Lowell Act of 1838 —
No 1838
the amount of account rendered

State of North Carolina
Duplin County
On this the 30 th day of July A.D. 1841 before me William R. Ward a Justice of the Peace in and for said County personally appeared Mary Powell a resident of Duplin County N.C aged eighty years who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath, make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed July 7, 1838 entitled "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows." That she is the widow of Brittain alias Britton Powell who was a private of militia cavalry in the War of the Revolution and for an account of his services begs leave to refer to his declaration and the proofs accompanying it when he applied for a pension and although it was not allowed him prays that it may be reexamined and some allowance made, for his defect of memory when he made out his statement, his memory being very much impaired and couldn't detail the particulars of his service but is confident from what he told this applicant that he served a great deal, that he received tickets in payment for his services and was told that they would be made good to him, but he said that they were of no account or value, and they have been thrown away and destroyed.
She further declares that she was married to the said Brittain Powell on the 10 th of May in the year seventeen hundred and eighty four, that she was not married to

him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seventeen hundred and ninety four viz: at the time above stated.
She further declares that her husband the said Brittain Lowell died in October in the year eighteen hundred and thirty eight, that the Record of her eldest children's ages hereunto annexed has been in the possession of her husband and herself for fifty odd years that the same is true and genuine and she believes in the handwriting of Morris Fennell then a neighbour of theirs, that the Bible in which it is recorded was bought by her husband soon after their marriage, that she has not intermarried since the death of her husband but continues his widow.
in her Mary M c Lowell
Sworn to & subscribed the day & year & mark aforesaid before me and I hereby certify that said Mary Powell is well known to me is a credible person and that her statement is entitled to full faith & credit, that she is aged and infirm and unable to travel to Court without great inconvenience and danger to her health and perhaps to her life and that the word "private," was erased & "sergeant & not," interlined before sworn to and subscribed and also the word "Cavalry," was interlined before sworn to & subscribed. Given under my hand the day & year aforesaid
W m R d Ward Jr.

State of North Carolina } Duplin County }
On this the 3 rd day of July A.D. 1841 before me William R. Ward a Justice of the Peace in and for said County personally appeared Mary Bland a resident of said County aged seventy-two years who being first duly sworn according to law maketh oath that she was at the Infare  wedding of Brittain Powell and his widow Mary Powell the aforesaid applicant though she didn't see them married but saw them going on into the County of New Hanover to be married as a Magistrate was more convenient to them in that County than in Duplin where she Mrs Powell resided, being near the dividing line between said Counties, that she is confident that the marriage took place at the time stated in Mrs Powell's declaration was on the 10 th of May 1784. That the said Brittain Powell died in October 1838. That the said Mary Powell has not intermarried since the death of her husband the said Brittain but continues his widow.
Sworn to & subscribed the Mary her  Bland Mark
day & year aforesaid before me and I hereby certify that said Mary Bland is well known to me is a credible person & that her statement is entitled to full faith & credit. and that the word "wedding" was erased & "infare" inserted before sworn to & subscribed
W. R. Ward J. P.

I, James Dickson Clerk of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions for Dublin County, hereby certify that William R. Ward is a Magistrate as above and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his are genuine In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this the 22 nd day of July A.D. 1841 & 66 th year of American Independence
James Dickson Clerk of the Court of Dublin County
Declaration of Mary & Paul Wilson of Carlton & Paul Act of 1838 —

I know all men by these presents that I Mary Bland of the County of Duplin and State of North Carolina do hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint John P. Edwards of Washington District of Columbia my true and lawful attorney for me and in my name, place, and stead to claim recover and receive for me any sum or sums of money due and unpaid to me on account of any arrearsages or increase of Pension which may be due to me as the daughter and heir at law of Mary Powell deceased who was a Pensioner of the United as widow of Brit- tain Powell who was a soldier of the Revolu- tion under existing Pension laws to file such evidence and make such arguments as may be found requisite and to collect such such sums of money as may be found to be due as aforesaid and to receipt for the same as my said Attorney hereby ratifying and confirm- ing all that my said attorney may legally do as cause to be done in the premises
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal this 16 th day of April 1853
In presence of
Mary Bland (seal)
Witness { Geo. W. Ward Isaac T. Bland
State of North Carolina { pp County of Duplin {
Be it known that on the 16 th day of April 1853 before the subscriber a Justice

of the Peace in and for said County duly authorized by law to administer oaths per- sonally appeared Mary Bland above named and acknowledged the foregoing Power of attorney to be her act and deed In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day & year last abovenwritten J P
State of North Carolina } to wit: County of Duplin }
I Benjamin H Grady Clerk of the Court of Duplin County do hereby certify that William R Ward Esq before whom the foregoing Power of Attorney was made and who has thereunto subscribed his name was at the time of so doing a Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn and that his signature abovenwritten is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of Duplin County Court this 19th day of April AD 1853
B H Grady Clerk

State of North Carolina New Hanover County } ss
On this the 20 th day of Dec r 1845 before the Subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said County personally appeared Isaac Newton a resident of said County of New Hanover aged fifty nine years last August who being first duly sworn according to law maketh oath that he was well acquainted with Briton Powell now deceased, and with his wife Mary Powell who is now an applicant for a pension and with their children Elisha, Isaac, Jacob, Milly who intermarried with Joel Johnson, and Molsey or Mary who intermarried with James Bland, were raised i. e. near where their children were raised near together, that this affiant was born the 30 th of Aug t 1786 and was a little older than Elisha their eldest, this affiant believes not as much as one year. They were boys and comrades together, residing within two miles of each other. He is well assured and fully confident that Briton Powell intermarried with the said Mary Powell several years previous to the 1 st of January 1794, and before this affiant was born. The words "i. e. near where their children was raised," interlined before sworn to. Sworn to & subscribed this the 20 th Dec r 1845 before me and I Isaac Newton hereby certify that said Isaac Newton is well known to me and entitled to full faith and credit. Lewis Highsmith J.P.

State of North Carolina New Hanover County
I Lewis H. Marsteller, Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County aforesaid, do hereby certify that Lewis Highsmith whose signature appears to the within affidavit, is and was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn, that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine, and that full faith and credit are due his official acts
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office the 2 nd day of January A.D. 1841.
L H Marsteller, Clerk New Hanover, Cty Court
(Faint, mirrored text from the reverse side of the page)

Briton Powell N. C. N o 21175.
Ret. Return all the papers
a. e.
Hon. J. J. McKay G. W. Huffman Kenonville, Duplin Co. N. C.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
Pension Office,
Apl. 20 th 1833
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 subjjoined notes, you will readily perceive that objections exist, which must be removed, before a pension can be allowed. The notes and the regulations will shew 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.
A Statement, shewing the Service of Briton Powell
   Period when the service was rendered. Duration of the claimant's service. Rank of the claimant. Names and Rank of the Company officers under whom he served. Names and Rank of the General and Field officers. Battles in which the applicant was engaged. Country through which he marched. Place of abode when he entered the service, and age at the present period. Evidence by which the declaration is supported.   Years. Months. Days.     He thinks 1777 to 1778 vol. ✓ 3 Pri. Light Horse Capt. S. Stallings Col. Las. Kenan Maj. Ind. Moulton about 92 years Traditionary C o N.C. Witness.   1779 ✓ 12 or 18 mos. Pri. Light Horse Capt. Fredericks   1780 6 Sergt. Capt. A. Williams Col. Las. Kenan Maj. Ind. Moulton   81 11 Capt. D. Holmes Genl. Rutherford  
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 day 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
3rd James M. May

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 he 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 [i] 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.

Very  WIDOW, &c.
File No. 4768
Mary Powell Wid.
Benton Powell Port. N.C. line
Act: Mch. 3 rd June 17 th 44
Index:—Vol. 66 , Page 135
[Arrangement of 1870.]

X 1935 Mary Powell Rejected North Carolina Set to New J. J. N. Jay Augt 26 th 1821
Act July 7 th 1838

Briton Powell
N. Carolina
Rejected —
27 July 1835
Hon: S. J. McKay —
Same Aug 5. 1835 —
Same 26 Aug. 1841
No 67 June 1832

11:046.
Mary Powell
N. 6
unpaid
Set to Patrick Murphy Nov 25 '44 " " same 27. March 1845 same April 18 th 1845 " same June 30. '45 " " J. L. & Thos. Smith Aug 12 '45
Act July 9 th 38

11046.
Mary Powell widow of Britton, N.C.
Act. 7 July 1838.
M rs S.H. husb d . d ied Oct r 13. 1838.
Admitted
1 year private Cas. 6
$50. 00 / 1.00 pr An.
from 13. Oct. 1838 - the day of her husband's death
Also Act. 3 rd March '43 & 17 June '44
J.L. & A. Thos. Smith Agents, Washington City

21.175 Briton Powell N. C.
Admitted.
Pr: Car 1 yr - $50. - bap. Stallings Col Kenon N.C.
husband died 13 th Oct 1838, annu ty due from 4 March 1831 to time of his death to be paid to his widow Mary Powell.
Act 7 June 1832
Patrick Murphy Kenansville N. C.

11046.
Mary Powell N.C. Widow of Britton
Act. 7 July 1838.

W. B. Page June 26. 46
9901.
Barahna
May Powell,
Widow of Britton Powell, who was a pensioner under the Act of '32, and who died on the 13th: October, 1838, of Dublin City in the State of N. H. who was a priv: Cav: — in the commanded by Captain of the commanded by  in the N. Carolina line for 1 year —
Inscribed on the Roll of Fayetteville, at the rate of 50 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 1st day of March, 1836. 13th: Oct: 1838 —
Certificate of Pension issued the 13. day of March, 1846 and sent to J. L. & a. J. Smith, Present.
Total amount, $ 179. 43
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by W. L. Stewart _____ Clerk, Book 2 Vol. 1 Page 297 .

Dec 29. 1845.
Adal to cow
May Porcee.
J. D.
Edwards Esq
Stearns of Benson.
2

S
Washington D.C. 27 December 1875
We transmit herewith the affidavit of Sepse Lee in the case of Mary Powell widow of Briton Powell, of Duplin County, North Carolina which we hope will prove satisfactory.
We are respectfully your most obed Servt Edw H. Smith
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions.

Putton Powell
78 3mo. St. Stalling Goldlevane family
3 " " "
79 Several short loans — in domestic police 1 yr as minute man. Goldlevane family Wally
80 6mo. St. — — —
81 — 3mo. St. Aaron Millhaim "
~ 6 — — —
(Same Plankton notes 3mo with Aaron Millhaim 3mo
78. 2 loans from St. 6
79. 1 3 — 3
80, 81 3 — 3
3. 3
May add 12mo private

Elizabeth Th. Town Aug. 1 st 1839.
Sir, The enclosed paper, asking a reexamination of the claim of Mr. D. Powell is signed by several respectable citizens of Duplin County, where the applicant lives - as I think it highly probable, for representation made to me, that Powell's case is, at least as fair as some that have been allowed. You will consider my writing as the request for a reexamination.
respectfully James I. W. H. G.

Sir
Please set out the papers in the case of Mary Powell wid of Brittain Powell Rev Penniman North Carolina Roll.
John S. Edwards
April 27 th 1853

Clinton Nov 9. 1841
Sir
At Dublin Sup te Court a paper writing was prepared and sworn to & subscribed by Mary Powell widow of Britton Powell proving that she is the widow of sd Powell and the time of his death in compliance with the suggestion in your letter dated I think in August last. Please inform me whether it has been received at your Office & if so, what is your decision upon it. It was mailed I presumed at Warsaw.
I am very respectfully
Yr obt serv t Patrick Murphy
Hon: James L. Edwards Comm r of Pensions Washington D.C.

JB
Edwards M r of Pensions Washington D.C.

Oct 11 1844 Add evidence Care Mary Pamel St. L.
FREE Hon: James L. Edwards Comm te of Pensions Washington D.C.

Near Jaylo's Bridge N.C. Oct: 7 th 1844.
Dr Sir
Enclosed is an affidavit of James Blanton in the case of Mary Powell widow of Porton Powell intended to have been sent on with her declaration, and I apprehend that I enclosed a bill of articles bought in New York through mistake in lieu of this as that can't since be found among my papers - if so please return it to me - I presume Mr Blanton is mistaken as to the time of the year that the marriage of Mrs Powell took place, as she seems very positive as to its being the 10 th of May that she was married -
Respectfully
Yr obt servt Patrick Murphy

June 28, 1845
Taylor Bridge June 24th
Rev. Mr. Powell
Fred
Dear: James G. Edwards Comm ee of Pensions Washington D.C.

Near, Taylor's Bridge P. O. Sampson Co: N.C. June 24 th 1845
I hereby certify that with the papers of Mary Powell widow of Britton Powell decd, transmitted by me, through the mail, to the Pension Office in the Fall (I believe) of 1841, a family record was cut out of a book by me and sent with her declaration and proofs, which showed the birth of their children to be prior to the year 1794. -
Respy Patrick Murphy
Hon: James L. Edwards Comm r of Pensions

Sampson, June 24, 1845)
Sir,
I send a certificate to the foregoing effect, that further search may be made among the papers in the pension Office for the family record referred to therein; I am certain it was sent on & have since seen the book it was taken out of.
No marriage license bond can be found among the Records of New Hanover County Ct C . Some of the papers of that Office are believed to have been lost or destroyed in the fire which happened in Wilmington about six years ago.
Respy yr mo: obt Patrick Murphy
Hon: J. L. Edwards Comm r of Pensions Washington City D.C.

Aug 21 1845.
Strickland NC July 31 st
Heads for card
May Pencil
Hon: James L. Edwards Comm ee of Pensions Washington D.C.
10

Near, Taylor's Bridge N.C. July 31. 1845
Sir
Enclosed is the affidavit of Joseph Stringfield in further proof of marriage in the case of Mary Powell. Please give it further consideration.
Respectfully,
yr mo: ob st Patrick Murphy
Hon: James L. Edwards Com r of Pensions Washington D.C.

Sir,
Washington D.C. 6 January 1846
Herewith you will receive additional evidence in the case of Mrs Mary Powell widow of Briton Powell of N Carolina.
We are respectfully yrs affec Secy J L & A H Smith
J L Edwards Esq. Commr of Pensions.

State of North Carolina } Superior Court of Law Duplin County } Fall Term 1841
On this the 27 th day of September A.D. 1841 before the Honorable Thomas Settle one of the Judges of the Superior Courts of Law & Equity in and for the State aforesaid, now sitting and holding Court for said County of Duplin at the Court House in Kenansville, personally appeared Mary Powell a resident of said County of Duplin, aged eighty odd years who being first duly sworn according to law maketh oath that she is the widow of Britton Powell deceased who was a resident of said County of Duplin and an applicant for a pension under the Act of Congress of June 7. 1832, and that the said Britton Powell died on or about the 13 th day of October in the year (1838.) eighteen hundred and thirty eight.
Sworn to & subscribed the day her Mary Powell and year aforesaid in open Court mark Before me, Jere Searseale C.F.

And it was made appear to the satisfaction of The said Court that the said Mary Powell who came this day into Court and swore to and subscribed the foregoing affidavit is the widow of the said Britton Powell deceased, that she has not intermarried since his death and that the said Britton Powell was an applicant for a pension and died on or about the 13 th day of October (1838), eighteen hundred and thirty eight. Given under my hand this the 27 th day of September A.D. 1841. Wm G. Bell
I Jeremiah Searsall Clerk of the Superior Court of Law for the County of Duplin hereby certify that the foregoing proceedings were had and done in open Court as therein set forth.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of Office at New- ansville, this the 27 day of September A.D. 1841 & 66 th Year of American Independence.
Jeremiah Searsall C.F.C.

State of North Carolina Sampson County ss
On this the 19 th day of Dec r 1845 before the Subscriber Clerk and Master of the Court of Equity in and for said County personally appeared Jesse Lee a resident of the County of New Hanover, State aforesaid aged sixty two years the 14 th of Febr'y last - who being first duly sworn according to law maketh oath that he was well acquainted with Briton Powell deceased, the husband of Mary Powell of Duplin County N.C. and an applicant for a pension - That he knew them from his boyhood. He also was well acquainted with their children, Elisha, Isaac and Jacob, Milly & Molsey or Mary - This affiant believes he is about five years older than Elisha Powell their eldest son - They were boys together and this affiant is fully satisfied that Briton Powell and Mary now his widow must have intermarried several years before the 1 st of January 1794 - as much as seven years at least before that period. This affiant resided and was raised in about 2 1/2 miles from said Briton Powell's.
Sworn to & subscribed the day & Jesse Lee year aforesaid before me & I hereby certify that said affiant is well known to me and entitled to full faith and credit - In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of Office Dec r 19. 1845 Patrick Murphy Clerk

Court of Pleas & quarter Sessions Duplin County Nov Term 1833 It appearing to satisfaction of the Court that Brillon Powell a Soldier of the Revolution is too aged & infirm to appear in open court to make his declaration to avail himself of the Benefit of the Pension act passed 7th June 1832 It is therefore ordered that Alfred Ward & Wm W Buren back Esqrs be appointed a committee to take declaration of the said Brillon Powell together with such evidence as he may be enabled to procure & return the same under their hands to this Term of this court
Whereupon the said Commissioners returned the following declaration & evidence taken by them
In testimony whereof I James Pearsall Clerk of the County Court of Duplin do set my hand & affix My Seal of office this 27 th Nov 1832 J Pearsall Clerk

State of North Carolina Duplin County
On this the 28th day of January A.D. 1835. before the undersigned a Justice of the Peace in and for said County personally appeared Stephen Williams a resident of Duplin County in the State aforesaid aged seventy one years next June who being duly sworn doth on his oath depose and say that he is well acquainted with Briton Powell a resident of Duplin County aforesaid in the State aforesaid aged ninety two years or upwards and an applicant for a pension under the act of Congress of June 7. 1832 and served with him in the war of the Revolution two tours of three months each under Captain Aaron Williams, Joseph Williams Lieutenant, John Goff Ensign - James Kenan Col and John Moulton Major - in a company of Duplin infantry. Said applicant was 1st Sargeant in said companies - marches mostly in Duplin, sometimes in New Hanover - once to Halifax & once to Newbern - joined Gen Rutherford's regiment at Rocky Point in New Hanover - 3000 in number - and Gen. Butler's corps of riflemen at the same place - said deponent has been acquainted with the aforesaid applicant ever since the Revolutionary war - has lived in his immediate neighbourhood ever since & even before has never heard any thing derogatory to his character and believes him to be a man of truth & strict veracity Sworn & subscribed the day & year aforesaid and I hereby certify that said deponent Stephen Williams is well known to me and entitled to full faith & credit Interlined before sworn to or subscribed
Stephen Williams
Alfred Ward JP
J. James Dickson Clerk of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions for Duplin County hereby

hereby certify that Alfred Ward before whom the foregoing affidavit was sworn and subscribed is an acting Justice of the Peace in & for said County, and that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of Office this the 31 st day of January A.D. 1835
James Dickson Clerk of the Court of Duplin County

State of North Carolina Daplin County
Hon James L. Edwards Comm t of Pensions
The Undersigned respectfully represent, in behalf of Britton Powell a Revolutionary soldier a resident of this County and who has made application to the Pension Office for an allowance of Pension, and whose claim has been rejected as we understand, that they sincerely regret the rejection of said applicant's claim, inasmuch as the Undersigned verily believe he rendered material service to his Country in the Revolution-ary war, that he, the said applicant is very aged and of defective and impaired memory so that he cannot give such an account of his service as to present to the Pension Office a fair case for a decision, that they believe from common reputation that said applicant was an uncommonly active soldier against the enemy - From the statement of those who served with him - & the personal knowledge of his aged friends now living around him - and that we would earnestly solicit a reexamination of his claim believing if a careful & minute investigation

of his is made - a pension will be allowed him - We believe he served not only against the Tories but British enemy - Given under our hands July 21 st 1835
William Bland H. Newbry Alfred Ward George W. H. Ham C. N. Williams

Near, Taylor's Bridge. N.C. July 22 d 1841-
Sir,
Enclosed is the declaration of Mary Powell widow of Britton Powell for a pension under the act of July 7. 1838- She refers to her husband's declaration and the proofs therein exhibited - among others the affidavit of Stephen Williams upon whose evidence as proof of her husband's service a pension was allowed to Elizabeth Williams of the county of Dublin N.C.
Respectfully
Yr obt servt Patrick Murphy
Hon J. L. Edwards Com r of Pensions

Sept 30. 1871
N.C.
Adolph
Britann Powell, da.
Hon: James L. Edwards Com r of Pensions Washington D.C.

Kenansville N.C. Sept 27, 41
Sir
In compliance with the suggestion in your favour of the 26 th Ult t , I have made out and herein enclose proof of the identity of the applicant Mrs Mary Powell as the widow of Britton Powell dec d and of the time of her said husband's death, to entitle her to a pension under the act of June 7, 1832 from the 4 th of March 1831 to the 13 th of Oct r 1838 the time of her husband's death, which was due her husband.
Please direct in return to me, Taylor's Bridge, Sampson County N.C.
I have the honor to be,
very respectfully
yr obt serv t
Patrick Murphy
Hon: James S Edwards Com r of Pensions

11.046
Mary Powell
N. 6
Act 7 May July '38
[Faint mirrored handwriting from the reverse side of the page]

com. al. 1.
Strickland ne Sept 25 }
11046. Sept 28 44
He Olb. July 7 1838 Mum Pault
u
How James L. Edwards Comm r of Pensions Washington D C

Duplin Co: N.C. Sept. 24. 1844
Sir
Enclosed is the declaration of Mrs Mary Powell widow of Britton Powell for a pension under the acts of 38 & 43. with proofs. Please inform me the result. & also whether any regulations have been adopted to carry into effect the last pension act.
I am very resp'y yr obt servt Patrick Murphy
Hon Jas S. Edwards Comm te of Pensions Washington D.C.

State of North Carolina New Hanover County
On this the 20 th day of December A.D. 1845 before the Subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said County per- sonally appeared Daniel Alderman a resident of said County of New Hanover age seventy one years last March who being first duly sworn according to law maketh oath that he was well acquainted with Briton Powell and his wife now widow Mary Powell, that he was at their infer when he this affiant was about twelve or thirteen years of age or between ten & fourteen. He was well acquainted with their sons Elisha, Isaac & Jacob, & this affiant believes he is about fifteen years older than Elisha Powell the eldest of their sons - and this affiant is fully satisfied that they were married and had children prior to the 1 st of January 1794.
Sworn to & subscribed } Daniel Alderman the day & year aforesaid before me do hereby certify
that said Daniel Alderman is well known to me and entitled to full faith and credit John P. Bannerman J.P.
J. Louis H. Murrletter Clerk of the Court of Pleas & Quarter Sessions for New Hanover County hereby certify that John P. Bannerman whose signature appears to the foregoing affi- davit is & was at the date thereof an acting Justice

of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned & sworn, that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine. & that full faith & credit are due his official acts.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of Office the 2 nd day of January A.D. 1846
J. H. Marstetter. Clerk St. Lawrence County Court

State of North Carolina } ss Sampson County
On this the 17 th day of July 1845. before the Subscriber Clerk & Master of the Court of Equity for the County aforesaid personally appeared Joseph Stringfield a resident of New Hanover County in said State aged sixty five years the 20 th of Dec r last to me well known & entitled to full faith & credit who being first duly sworn, maketh oath that when he was quite a small boy, he is satisfied under ten years of age - he was present at an assemblage of persons at the residence of Britton Powell deceased in Duplin County - and he recollects it distinctly that it was upon the occasion of his marriage with Mary his widow who is an applicant for a pension. Don't recollect of seeing them married and thinks it was the infares as is usually called in this section and from the calculation made of dates and circumstances which he recollects he believes it was in the year 1787 or thereabouts. Joseph Stringfield
Sworn to & subscribed
before me the day & year aforesaid
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of Office.
Patrick Murphy Bld.

Kernansville N.C. Jany 20. 1845
Sir
The papers in the case of Mary Powell widow of Britton Powell decd has been this day submitted to the Court now in session here and approved and confirmed by the Court.
Please report me the result as soon as may comport with your convenience and direct to "Taylor's Bridge, Sampson Co. N.C."
I am very respectfully yr obt servt Patrick Murphy
Hon: James L. Edwards Comm r of Pensions Washington City D.C.

11.046
Mary Powell Maw of Britton NC
act 7 July 1838
h. d. 13 th Oct '38
married in the County of Newbern by

State of North Carolina Duplin County } On this the 21 st day of September
A.D. 1844 personally appeared before the Subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, Mary Powell of Rock- fish district in the County of Duplin aged eighty five years who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the fol- lowing declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision made by the act of Congress passed July 7 th 1838, entitled an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows, and the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress passed on the 3 rd March 1843, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war. That she is the widow of Britow Powell who was a Sargeant or cornet of Cavalry in the Revolutionary War and served as stated in his declaration for an account of which she begs leave to refer to his declaration sent on and filed in the Pension Office of the United States.
She further declares that she was mar- ried to the said Britow Powell on the 10 th day of May in the year seventeen hundred and eighty six or about that year, if not that year, she believes it was either the year before or the year after, having sent on to the Pension Office the only family record she had, when she applied for the pension due her deceased husband, and begs leave to refer to that to show her marriage or birth of her children. That she was married in the County of New Hanover by

Thomas Devane Esquire, that her husband the aforesaid Briton Powell died on the 13 th of October in the year eighteen hundred and thirty eight; That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first day of January seventeen hundred and ninety four viz; at the time above stated as near as she can at present ascertain, and expects to procure the affidavits of witnesses to prove the date of her marriage more precisely
Sworn to & subscribed W. R. Ward before me the 21 st day of September A.D. 1844 and I further certify that said Mary Powell is unable from bodily infirmity and old age to attend Court. W. R. Ward J.P.
I James Dickson Clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for Dublin County, certify that William R. Ward is a Magistrate as above and that the foregoing signature and the signatures to the annexed affidavits pur- porting to be his are genuine, and that full faith and credit are due to his official acts.
In testimony whereof and of all the foregoing I have hereunto set my hand & seal of Office the 24 th day of Sept r 1844
James Dickson Clerk of The Court of Dublin County

State of South Carolina Duplin County } ss
On this the 21 st September A.D. 1844 before me W.B. Ward, a justice of Peace in and for said County of Duplin personally appeared William Bland of said County & state aged twenty three years 23 of February last who being first duly sworn maketh oath that he is well acquainted with Mary Powell widow of Britan Powell decd, that he did not witness the marriage of said Britan and Mary Powell but saw the guests going to the wedding and was at the Infair, and has been well acquainted with said Mary Powell ever since, that she has since the death of her husband in 1838 resided in his family some four or five years and has not inter- married since the death of her said husband Britan Powell, this affiant thinks said Britan and Mary Powell were married in the spring of the year 1786 and further this affiant saith not-
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 21 st Sep 1844 And I further certify that said William Bland is well known to me and that his statements are entitled to full faith and credit
his William Bland mark
W.B. Ward J.P.
N.B. The word death between the 13 th & 14 th lines to be read between the words "the & of" in the 14 line was interlined before signing the above affidavit
W.B. Ward J.P.

State of North Carolina } Duplin County Sep. 21 st 1844 }
This day personally appeared before me M c R. Ward one of Justices of Peace in and for said County of Duplin, Mary Bland of said County aged seventy three years who being first duly sworn, maketh oath that she is well acquainted with Mary Powell widow of Britain Powell deceased, that this affiant did not witness their marriage, but saw the guests going to the wedding and was at their in- fair, and this affiant believes they were married in the spring, of the year 1786 and further this affiant saith not
Sworn to and
subscribed
her Mary Bland mark
before me this 21 st Sep 1844 & I certify that said Mary Bland is well known to me is a credible witness & that her statements are entitled to full faith and credit
M c R. Ward J.P.

State of North Carolina Court of Pleas & Quarter Duplin County S Sessions January Term 1845
On this the 20 th day of January A.D. 1845 at the Court aforesaid began and held at the Court House in Newnanville on the 3 rd Monday of January A.D. 1845, the foregoing proceedings in the case of the application of Mary Powell widow of Briton Powell for a pension under the act of Congress of July 7 th 1838, were submitted to the worshipful Justices now holding said Court, and after examination, and hearing evidence and consideration of the matter approve the same and declare that our associate Justice William R. Ward Esquire was authorized in making the statements and certificates thereunto annexed and the same are confirmed by this Court. And it is further ordered by the Court, that it be certified that James Blanton a witness in this case whose affidavit is hereunto annexed is a credible witness and that his statements are entitled to credit, tho, his memory is defective by reason of old age.
In testimony whereof I James Dickson Clerk of said Court have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office the 20 th day of January 1845 269 th Year of American Independence
James Dickson Clerk of Duplin County Court

State of North Carolina Sampson County } ss
On this the 20 th day of Sept r 1844 before me Patrick Murphy Clerk & Master of the Court of Equity for the County of Sampson personally appeared James Blanton a resident of Duplin County in said State aged eighty two years the 15 th March last who being first duly sworn maketh oath that he is well acquainted with Mary Powell widow of Briton Powell decd, that this affiant did not witness their marriage but was at their infaw at his residence the day after their marriage and this affiant believes and is confident that it was in the latter part of the summer or first of the fall of the year 1786. - I sworn to before me
his the 20 th Sept r James X Blanton 1844 & I certify mark
that said affiant James Blanton is well known to me & is a credible witness & that his statement is entitled to full faith & credit. Witness my hand & seal of Office. P. Murphy C. & M.

Jas Blunt's affidavit for Mary Powell

On this the 1 st day of July 1834 - Personally appeared before me one of the Justices of the Peace in and for the County of Duplin North Carolina the undersigned (James Blattner) a witness to sustain in part the declaration of Britain Powell a soldier of the Revolution and an applicant for a pension under the act of Congress passed June 7-1832 who first being duly sworn according to law doth on his oath testify to the following facts viz - That Aaron Williams was a Captain of a light horse company during the Revolution - that his company was an embodied company of light- horsemen - regularly mustered in the service and called into service by competent authority - because Captain Aaron Williams was a Commission- ed officer - of the light horse that he performed much active service in the Revolution and that his company was constantly in field or in garrison and that he was engaged in no kind of domestic police - (during the service) I know the above statements to be true from this fact viz That I was a private sergeant released sergeant - of the light horse in Captain Aaron Williams company -
That Britain Powell was a soldier of the Revolution That he served in Captain Aaron Williams company of light horsemen - and that he was a soldier or an officer under Captain Aaron Williams but whether a private or not I cannot say - that he was in field or garrison with Captain Aaron Williams company and that he served a term of three months -

Under Col James Trenan Major John Mouton - Major Williams - Captains - that his tours of service were for three months - that he served considerable longer but as to the precise number of his tours as I cannot tell but that he served I think as much as two tours of service of three months each under the above named officers in the the United States service - and in the fight when there this service was performed at or near Rockfish Bridge where there was a sharp battle between the Militia and British following particulars we were near neighbours - and were acquainted both before and found him in service and since - Further Particulars relative to his service I cannot recollect but that he has always - been considered a soldier of the Revolution and still sustains this character beyond the possibility of a doubt James his Blanton mark
Test Alfred Ward
I certify that the statement of Mr James Blanton is entitled to credit -
Alfred Ward
I James Dickson Clerk of the County Court of Duplin certify that Alfred Ward is one of the acting Justices of the Peace in and for the County of Duplin and that he was - duly authorized to take the affidavit of James Blanton in testimony to the original declarations of Britton Powell an applicant for a pension on account of Revolutionary services and that the foregoing contains the original and amended proceedings of said Alfred Ward and William Rivenbark two of the acting Justices of the Peace in and for Duplin County in the matter of the applications of Britton Powell for a pension
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office this 23 rd day of September A D 1831 James Dickson Clerk of the Court of Duplin County

North Carolina Duplin County / ss
On this the 20 day of June AD 1834 personally appeared before Messrs Ward and Wm Whivenburg two of the acting Justices of the peace in and for the County of Duplin (N.C.) Briton Powell a resident of said Duplin County and state of North Carolina aged ninety three years and some months, who first being duly sworn, according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain to obtain the benefit of the provisions made by the act of congress passed June 7th 1832
he thinks in the spring or summer of 1777 or 1778 he thinks 1778 That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein stated
Col. James Kenan - Major John Moutrier
That he entered in the service under Captain Shadrach Harkings - Lieutenant Elijah Bower and he thinks Lefferts Bower Ensign; that he does not recollect the day or month when he entered the service but that it was in the spring or first of the summer because he had not finished his crop - he thinks it was in the year of 1778 because he had been in service one year or more before Gen. Gates and his army marched through this state - that his entrance into service was called enlisting though perhaps his more properly speaking he was a volunteer that he was first Sergeant in Capt. Shadrach Harkings Company of Light Horse - that he enlisted for three months, that he rendezvoused in the first place at Duplin old Court House - that he joined Col Hawkins - army he thinks of the Continentals because he understood at the time he joined him (Hawkins Regiment) that he came from Virginia that he joined Col Hawkins Regiment at Major Rich. Clintons (now Clintons)

that he does not recollect how long he served in Company with Hawkins regiment - or army but that he served considerable time - with his army, that Col David Dodd also joined Col Hawkins army that his Dods was a company of light horse - that he joined - Hawkins army at Myer Richard Clanton now Clinton the County seat of Sampson that Lieutenant Spillar also joined Col Hawkins army at the same place for the purpose of engaging a large body of Tories commanded by Bigus Mobley - that this service was performed in the counties of Newhanors - and Duplin now Duplin and Sampson that he was constantly in field or garrison that  no he was engaged in kind of domestic police, that during this term of service - that his marches - he does not recollect distinctly but so far as his memory - memory serves him were up and down the little and great Coheries and on the south east side of Black River - for the purpose of intercepting - and cutting of communication between the British and Tories - that the British were there (if his memory is right) in Wilmington. that there was a constant communication between the British and Tories that further particulars relative to this service owing to great age 93 years and some months - he does not recollect - that he left this tour of service he thinks in the last of summer or first of winter the fall of 1778 - that he resided in Duplin County North Carolina
That he entered the service a second time under the following named officers - Col James Heman Major John Matthews - Captain Shadrach Hastings - Lieutenant Elijah Bower. he thinks Clifton Bower Ensign. that he entered this service he thinks in the last of the fall or first of the winter and he thinks in the year of 1778 For reasons assigned in the caption of this declaration - that he resided in Duplin County (N.C.) that he entered for three months that his entrance into service was called enlisting though perhaps more properly speaking he was a volunteer that he rendezvoused at Duplin Old Courthouse that his marches - were in Newhanors County and Duplin counties now Duplin & Sampson that his marches were towards the points where an attack was expected either by British or Tories - and to cut off as much as could be the communications between the British and Tories and to intercept spies - and to attack the British when they could but this they were unable to do on

account of the superior force of the British - that he was constantly in field or in garrison during this tour of service and was - engaged in no kind of civil pursuit - during this term of service - that he was in no battle that he does not recollect the particular marches - or places through which he marched by reason of old age - 98 years and some months and the consequent loss of memory that he left this service he thinks about the last of 1778 - or first of 1779 - that he does not recollect further particulars relative to this term of service -
That during the year 1779 - he thinks he enlisted and served several short tours of a few days - and on some occasions weeks - that the greater part of this year was spent in a kind of domestic police not - of the nature of the two tours of service performed in he thinks 1778 - but principally in a patrol capacity to prevent loss of property and to chase Tories out of the neighborhood
That he thinks Col James Fenan and Major John Moulton were his field officers - Capt. Frederick Wells, he thinks Elijah Bower Lieutenant - Clifton Bower ensign - that during this year he does not recollect whether his field officers were in field or garrison much or any part of the time that this service was called the minute service that the company of minute men while performing minute service - were frequently at home and not constantly in field or garrison - that further particulars as a minute man and his liability to be called out to perform minute service he does not recollect - but that he was engaged in this kind of service attending to his affairs at home and in service during the greater part or whole of this year - when necessary
That he entered the service again under Captain he thinks Frederick Wells - Lieutenant Elijah Bower - Clifton Bower Ensign - Col James Fenan Major John Moulton his field officers -

that he entered this tour of service he he thinks about the first part of the year 1780 because this term of service commenced about  near he thinks near six months before Gen. Gates marched through this state that his entrance into service was called enlisting though more properly speaking he was a Volunteer that he resided in Duplin County, that he was engaged in no battle during this term of service - that his marches so far as he can recollect were principally in Duplin County now Duplin and Sampson Counties and in Craven County - that he was constantly in field or in garrison during this term of service and was not engaged in any Civil pursuit that he does not recollect - the length of this tour of service performed under the above named officers - thinks that he served six months or more - Under them that he was first sergeant of the light horse in Capt Frederick Wills Company - that his (Capt Wills) was a Company of light horse embodied and regularly mustered into service, that from old age and  consequent loss of memory he cannot recollect further particulars  that he left this service relating to the services - that he left this service he thinks about the last of summer or winter and he thinks in the year 1780 because it was the last service he performed under Capt Wills that  he  does  not  recollect further particulars relative to this service on account of old age 93-years and some months - and the consequent loss of memory
That he entered the service of United States again Col James Roman Major John Moulton Captain Aaron Williams - Joseph Williams - Lieutenant John Goff Ensign that he does not recollect the day or month when he entered this term of service but that thinks it was - in the month of May  May and in the year 1780 or 1781 and after Gen. Gates defeat - (See next page)
NB* that he was drafted - to march to Greene
join Gen. Greene's army to oppose Lord Cornwallis - that he employed one Lewis Levear to take his place during the first march to Guilford that during this his absence from Duplin County his substitute that he served in the Minute service that as soon as his Capt Wills Company returned he resumed his place again in Capt Wills company of light horse

that he resided in Duplin County that he does not recollect the length of the term of service under Captain Aaron Williams that he left this service in October  October and in the year 1781 - because he heard of the capture of Lord Cornwallis about the time his term of service expired that he served about six or seven months March  from  until Sometime in  before that he was first sergeant of the light horse in Capt. Williams Company that during this service there was a sharp battle at Rockfish Bridge - the dividing line between Newhanover and Duplin Counties that the British gained the victory that they carried the American prisoners to Wilmington that the militia were completely routed - that his marches after the battle at Rockfish Bridge for sometime were very uneventful to prevent the great influx of Tories into the British Camps - the and to cut off foraging parties - that much of his last service was in presence of and under Generals William Rutherford and Butler and Col William Washing- ton in the vicinity of Wilmington that Col William Washington after staying a considerable time with the militia regiments near the Big Bridge march- ed towards South Carolina that Craig the British officer was in possession of Wilmington - that soon after after this Generals Rutherford and Butler came with their armies to assist the militia against the British who then were at or near the Big Bridge - the North East River separated the two armies - that before any battle took place the British left Wilmington - that he joined Gen Rutherford's & Butler's regiments and marched with them to Newbern the distance being about 1 1 miles or thereabouts - that he joined Col William Washington's Regiment of Cavalry and served for a considerable time with his Regiment of Cavalry - That he joined Generals Rutherford and Butlers armies that he saved much of his last-

Service with them in reconnoitering the British Line and in marches. That he marched to Island Creek and from Island Creek to Maywell Creek and from Maywell Creek up the North-east River to cut off communications and foraging parties and in pursuit of the Tories who were very troublesome and strong being greatly increased by the victory obtained by the British at Kochfish Bridge that he marched back by the same places - to the Big Bridge near Wilmington where the main body of the army was stationed that he marched back several times to the same places viz Island Creek. Maywell Creek and up the North-east River. that he marched down the North-east River in Newhanover County to a place called the Red House about twelve miles from Wilmington that he marched repeatedly through Dupin County about this time and back to the main body of the army. that he was constantly in field or garrison during this service and was not engaged in any civil pursuit - that he served some time with Capt. Hardy Holmes of the Continental Line - that He he has no documentary evidence that he can prove his or seven months of this last service

State of North Carolina } ss. Duplin County.
On this the 28th day of January A.D. 1835 before the Undersigned a Justice of the Peace in & for said County personally appeared Briton Powell a resident of said County of Duplin in the State of North Carolina aged ninety two years and perhaps some over, who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following amendment to his declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed June 7th 1832-
In consequence of old age- infirmity for twenty odd years and the loss and defect of memory thereby- this applicant cannot make out a clear, precise and satisfactory declaration as to his services in the War of the Revolution- but according to the best of his recollection he served as follows- and under the following Officers- 1 st He cannot recollect that he engaged to serve for any particular period of time or duration of service in any of the services he performed- though it might have been the case- According to his present impression he was ordered out by Col James Kenan the commander of the Militia of Duplin- in all his service- and continued to serve as long as occasion or need required- and not for any particular tour- He is confident of having served under each of his Captains as long as herein stated- In the Spring of 1778- the militia of Duplin being required were ordered out by Col. James Kenan- and collected at Duplin old Court House the place of rendezvous for the militia- where the Captains received their orders from their superior officers, and this applicant volunteered and entered service in a company of Duplin cavalry under Captain Thadach Stallings, Elijah Bowen Lieutenants- Clifton

Bowen Ensign - James Kenan Colonel & John Mouton Major - and served; if by tours - two tours of three months each - as first sergeant - March, through Duplin & into New- Hanover - in no battle - joined a corps of Strock- down men so called or cavalry under Col Hawkins and two French Officers at Richard Clinton's plantation now in Sampson County - marched also upon the Coharus - Bearskin and various other places in pursuit of Tories under Mobley - He recollects of being in service under Captain Stallings in the fall of 1778 - He actually served under Captain Stallings - if by tours two tours of three months each - has no documentary proof - and knows of no person alive by whom he can prove his service under Captain Stallings -
2ndly - Sometime in the year 1779 The militia of Duplin were ordered out by Col James Kenan and this applicant collected together with the company of the district at John Williams the muster ground of the district in which he lived - and volunteered and entered service in a company of Duplin cavalry under Captain Frederick Wells - Elijah Bowen Lieutenant, Clifton Bowen Ensign and actually served three months as 1st Sergeant in said company - marched through Duplin then very large - into New- Hanover - His memory being very much impaired as above stated he cannot well recollect his marches - but the cavalry were principally confined to Duplin though occasionally ordered to places out of the County - The Tories were then very numerous and troublesome - He has no documentary proof and knows of no person alive by whom he can prove this service -
3rdly - In the winter of 1780-81 - There being a demand for soldiers - the British then having possession of Wil- mington, the Militia of Duplin were ordered out by Col. James Kenan and this applicant in obedience thereto met at the muster ground aforesaid viz at John Williams and volunteered and entered service in a company of Duplin cavalry under Captain Aaron Williams, Joseph Williams Lieutenant, John Goff Ensign - James

Thenan Colonel & John Moulton Major and served (as he supposes after having a conversation with Stephen Williams by whom he expects to prove his service under Captain Aaron Williams aforesaid by tours) three months as 1st Sargeant - marched through Duplin into New Hanover and came in view of the British at or near the Big Bridge across the North East - where there was firing across the River between the parties the evening (as this applicant understood) after the departure of the said company of cavalry for Newbern whither they were detached by orders of Genl Rutherford & Butler as a guard to Waggons sent for arms & ammunition -
This march to Newbern was however in his last tour of service in the fall of 1781 - as on our return from Newbern we heard of the capture of Cornwallis at York Town. His marches in this first tour under Capt Williams were principally in Duplin. He has no documentary proof but can prove this tour of service by Stephen Williams aforesaid -
4thly. There being a great demand for soldiers at this time the militia were kept in service and this applicant continued as a volunteer under the same officers as in the last mentioned tour and served three months as a 1st Sargeant in a company of Duplin cavalry - in the summer and fall of 1781 - captured some Tories at Mrs Mary Devane's on Black River in New Hanover & guarded them to Halifax jail - marches in Duplin - New Hanover - to Halifax and to Newbern; in no battle. When he entered his respective tours of service he resided in Duplin County, N.C. has no documentary evidence and can prove this tour of service also by Stephen Williams aforesaid -
Ans. 1. In Virginia in 1740 as near as I can ascertain -
2. I have no record of my age -
3. In Duplin - ever since in Duplin & now in Duplin
4. Volunteered -
5. Genl Rutherford & Butler - Capt Hardy Holmes - Col Wm Washington & for further particulars beg leave to refer to my original declaration
6. I don't recollect to have recd any written discharge or commission
7. Rev G. W. Hufham - Wm Bland - James Newton - David Wells - Alfred Ward Esq. Stephen Williams & others I could name -

He hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declares that his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any State.
Sworn & subscribed the day & his Briton Powell year aforesaid before me marks
Alfred Ward J.P.
We George M. Hufham a clergyman residing in the County of Dublin and Stephen Williams residing in the same hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Briton Powell who has sworn to & subscribed the preceding amended declaration that we believe him to be ninety two years old or upwards that he is reputed & believed in the neighbourhood where he resides to have been a Sargeant of Cavalry in the war of the Revolution & that we concur in that opinion.
George M. Hufham
Sworn & subscribed the day & year aforesaid before me & I hereby certify
that George M. Hufham who has sworn
to & subscribed the above certificate is a clergyman resident in the County of
Dublin & that Stephen Williams who has also signed the same is also a resident in the County of Dublin & a credible person
Stephen Williams
and that their statement is entitled to credit - And I the Justice of the Peace aforesaid do further certify that Briton Powell the aforesaid applicant cannot from bodily infirmity attend Court by belief of said applicant served as he states
Alfred Ward J.P.
I James Dickson Clerk of the Court of Pleas & Quarters Sessions for Dublin County hereby certify that Alfred Ward before whom the foregoing amended declaration and certificate was sworn to and subscribed is an acting Justice of the Peace in & for said County & that the foregoing signature purporting to be his is genuine
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of office this the 31 st day of January A.D. 1835 James Dickson Clerk of the Court of Dublin County