Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 10,912, for John Polley, Connecticut

SERVICE
NUMBER
Continental (Conn) Polley, John Phebe
N 10,912 B.L. 21.33-160-55
CONTENTS
[Ruled lines for entry]
[Ruled lines for entry]

14.252
16.065
New York
John Polley
of Otego — in the State of N. York who was a Dragoon in the Company commanded by Captain Edgar — of the Regt. commanded by Col. Sheldon in the Connieticut line for 2 Years — — — — —
Inscribed on the Roll of N. York — — — at the rate of 100 Dollars — — Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 16 th day of May 1833 — — — and due to S. Grippen Worcester —
Arrears to the 4th of Mar. '33 $ 200 Sem-ant. allowance ending 4 th Sep. '33 50 $350
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Sept June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by E. B. Stiles Clerk, Book E. Vol. 4. Page 70

In the Matter of John Polley a Soldier of the Revolution
Pension application
18055
On Rolls of Sheldon's Regt. 3 years
Adm'd 24 mo h. dragoon

State of New York Otsago County ss
Be it remembered that on the Eleventh day of August A.D. 1832 personally appeared before me, Seth Chase, Esquire, one of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Otsago, being a Court of Record, proceeding according to the principals of the Common Law with power of fine and imprisonment. John Polley of the Town of Milford in the County of Otsago and State of New York, who being first duly sworn by me according to Law doth on his Oath solemnly depose and declare, in order to obtain a pension under the provisions of the Act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832 entitled "An Act Supplementary to the Act for the relief of Certain Surviving Officers and Soldiers of the Revolution," that he was seventy years of age in the Month of January last, and that he now resides in the Town of Milford in the County of Otsago aforesaid. And the said John Polley further declares in Manner aforesaid that on the 10 th day of January 1781 he enlisted at the Town of Fairfield in the County of Fairfield Connecticut, into the Service of the War of the Revolution as a private soldier for the Term or period of three years, in a company of Continental Troops commanded by Capt David Edgar, in a Regiment of Cavalry belonging to the Connecticut line commanded by Col. Elisha Sheldon, Lieutenant Col. Jennings, and Major Benjamin Tallmadge. And the said John Polley further declares in manner aforesaid, that he entered the Service immediately on his enlisting as aforesaid in the Month of January 1781, and continued in Actual Service in the War of the Revolution as a private soldier in Capt. Edgar's Company, and Col. Sheldon's Regiment, in the Continental line, until the Close of the War, and was not discharged from said Service until the American Army was disbanded, in the Month November 1783.
And the said John Polley further states that the wages of a private soldier in Col. Sheldon's Regiment of Cavalry, was One hundred dollars a year, and that he was paid at that rate for the full time he served in said Regiment as above stated. And also that he the said John Polley some time in the Spring of the year 1829 made application for a pension and to support that application he obtained the evidence of Walter Lyon of the Town of Stamford in the County of Delaware and State of New York, and Aaron Stevens

of the Town of Jefferson in the County of Schoharie, both of whom testified to the services of him the said John Polley as a Soldier in the War of the Revolution as above stated - And that they the said Walter Lyon and Aaron Stevens are now both dead, wherefore he the said John Polley is now deprived of the testimony of both of said persons, to support his present application for a pension - And the said John Polley further states, that he has no knowledge of any person now living who recollects, or is knowing to the services rendered by him in the War of the Revolution as above stated - and that he the said John Polley at the time he made his application for a pension in the year 1829 resided in the Town of Stamford in the County of Delaware aforesaid, and has since that time removed to the Town of Milford in the County of Otsego where he now resides - And the said John Polley further states that his application for a pension in the year 1829 was not admitted, as appears by the Letter of the then acting Secretary of the Treasury, which is hereunto annexed - And the said John Polley further declares in manner aforesaid that he hath not at any time, here to fore received any annuity or pension under any Law of the United States providing for Revolutionary Officers and Soldiers - And that his name is not inscribed on any pension Roll of any State, or of the United States - And further saith not
Sworn to and subscribed before me this 11 th day of July A.D. 1832
John Polley
Seth Chase a judge of Otsego County
State of New York
Otsego County ss
Samuel G. Burnside of the Town of Maryland in said County, to all whom these presents shall come Law, personally appeared before me, Seth Chase Esquire, a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Otsego, who being first duly sworn according to Law, doth depose and say that John Polley, who has signed and made the above declaration and oath, moved into the Town of Milford in the County of Otsego about two years since, from

the Town of Stamford in the County of Delaware - And that he the said Samuel S. Burnside has resided a nigh neighbour to the said John Polley during the two years now last past, and that he the said John Polley is a Man of good Character and of fair reputation and is entitled to full credit and belief on oath or otherwise - and further saith not -
Sworn to and Subscribed before me the 11 th day of July A.D. 1832
Samuel S. Burnside
Seth Chase a judge of Otsego county
State of New York Otsego County ss
I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with Samuel S. Burnside who this day signed and made the above deposition before me. And that he is a Man of good Moral Character, sustaining a fair reputation for truth and veracity - In witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name this 11 th day of July A.D. 1832.
Seth Chase a judge of Otsego county
State of New York Otsego County ss
I Horace Lathrop, clerk of the said County of Otsego, do certify that Seth Chase Esquire before whom the foregoing Affidavits purport to have been sworn, & whose name appears to the foregoing certificate, was, at the date of the same, one of the Judges of Otsego County Courts, duly commissioned and sworn as such, and authorized to take Affidavits. And also that I am acquainted with his hand writing, and verily believe his name subscribed to the said Affidavits, and certificate, to be his own proper hand writing and signature. Given under my hand and the seal of said County the 16 th day of July 1832.
Horace Lathrop, clerk.

Rep.
N o 4,571. New York. Adj.
Phoebe Polley, widow of John Polley, dec d . who served in the Revolutionary Conn. war, as a Dragoon.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 100 dollars cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.
Certificate of Pension issued 11 th day of Oct., 1854, and sent to Jas. O. Parker Franklin, Del. Co., N.Y.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 82, Vol. A.
W. R. Nelson

State of New York Otsego County } ss.
Declaration
On this 20 th day of December A.D. 1853.
Personally appeared in open Court before me Hiram Kinne Surrogate of the County of Otsego in the State of New York Pheby Polley a resident of Oneonta in the County and State aforesaid aged 72 Years who first being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the Act of Congress passed on the 3 rd day of February 1853 granting pension to Widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war; That she is the Widow of John Polley who served during the Revolutionary war and was inscribed on the pension Rolls, under the Act June 7 th 1832. that she is not positive as to the Annual Amount which he received, but according to the best of her recollection it was not far from one hundred (100) dollars, which was paid by the Agency at the City of Albany She would here respectfully refer the department to her husband's Original Certificate for pension which was surrendered soon after his decease, to the said Agency at Albany - That she cannot state particulars respecting the service of her said husband, the capacity in which he served, the officers under whom said service was performed or the time when he entered and left said service, but she thinks he resided at the time he entered the service at Greenfield, in the State of Connecticut. For proof of service she would respectfully refer the department to the evidence which was filed in her husband's application -
She further declares that she was married to the said John Polley on the eight (8 th ) day of December 1814. that her said husband died at Mansfield in the County aforesaid, on the 28 th day of August 1834 -

That she was not married to him prior to the 2 nd day of January Eighteen hundred, but at the time before statut. And she further declares that she is now a Widow
J. D. C. C. D. K. K. G.
Subscribed & sworn to in open court before me Hiram Kinne Sunnyside of the county of Otago in the state of New Zealand on the day first above written.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Copetown in the county of Otago this twentieth day of December in the year one thousand eight hundred and fifty three.
Hiram Kinne Sunnyside

State of New York } ss. Otsego County }
On the 25 th day of April A.D. 1854 personally appeared before me, a justice of the peace within and for the county aforesaid Phebe Polley, a resident of Oneonta, in the county and state aforesaid aged 72 years, who being duly sworn according to law, doth, on her oath make the following additional statement and correction, that by reason of old age and the consequent loss of memory she was mistaken as to the date of her said marriage to the said John Polley, that on examining the family Record now in her possession which is in the hand writing of her said husband, she finds that her marriage to the said John Polley was on the Eleventh (11 th ) day of December in the year 1818 in stead of the 8 th of December 1817, as given in her original Declaration that her name before her said marriage was Phebe Miller, that she was married to said John Polley by the Rev John Bangs a minister of the Gospel, at her residence in Cortright, Del Co & state aforesaid that she has no knowledge of any Record of her said marriage except the family record above referred to, that said John Bangs is dead, and that his family, and those who witnessed her said marriage are also dead or removed to parts unknown, Consequently she is unable to procure an Eye witness to her said marriage
Deponent
STATE OF NEW YORK, ) OTSEGO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE. }
I, WILLIAM C. FIELDS, Clerk of said County, do hereby certify, that Samuel Ideoko Esquire, was, on the 25 th day of April 1854 a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County of Otsego, duly authorized to act as such, and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice, and that his signature to the annexed instrument is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and official seal of the said County, at Cooperstown, this 29 th day of April 1854
Wm C Fields CLERK.
above named Justice result the peace

State of New York Otsego County } ss.
On the 25 th day of April A.D. 1854 personally appeared before me, a justice of the peace within and for the county aforesaid Phebe Polley, a resident of Oneonta, in the county and state aforesaid, aged 72 years, who being duly sworn according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following additional statement and correction, that by reason of old age and the consequent loss of memory she was mistaken as to the date of her said marriage to the said John Polley, that on examining the family Record now in her possession which is in the hand writing of her said husband, she finds that her marriage to the said John Polley was on the Eleventh (11 th ) day of December in the year 1818 in stead of the 8 th of December 1817, as given in her original Declaration that her name before her said marriage was Phebe Miller, that she was married to said John Polley by the Rev John Bangs a minister of the Gospel, at her residence in Cortright, Del Co & state aforesaid that she has no knowledge of any Record of her said marriage except the family record above referred to, that said John Bangs is dead, and that his family, and those who witnessed her said marriage are also dead or removed to parts unknown, consequently she is unable to procure an eye witness to her said marriage
Deponent Phebe Polley
Sworn to and subscribed before me, the day and year first above written, and I certify that Phebe Polley the above named deponent is known to me to be a person of truth and veracity and I further certify that, I have no interest in the result of this case
Warren J. Cooke Justice of the Peace

State of New York } Otsego County } s.s.
On the 25 th day of April 1854, personally appeared before me, a justice of the peace within and for the County aforesaid, Russell R Chauncey aged 79 years, who being duly sworn according to law Depose and says, that he resides in Maryland in said County, that he was well acquainted with John Polly, a Revolutionary Pensioner, that said John Polly died at his residence in the town of Maryland, on, or about the 28 th day of August 1834, deponent cannot state positively the date of said Polly's death, but according to the best of his recollection it was on the day above mentioned, that he knows the fact that said John Polly died, that he was present when said Polly was laid out, and that he attended the funeral.
Deponent further states that he is acquainted with Phebe Polly of Oneonta in said County, that she is the Widow of the said John Polly, that he was acquainted with her in the lifetime of her said husband, and knew them to have lived together as Husband & Wife for several years, and he swears that he is a disinterested witness.
Russell R. Chauncey
Sworn to and subscribed before me, on the 25 th day of April 1854, and I certify that Russell R Chauncey
STATE OF NEW YORK, OTSEGO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE.
I, WILLIAM C. FIELDS, Clerk of said County, do hereby certify, that Horace J. Spencer Esquire, was, on the 25 th day of April 1854 a Justice of the Peace in and for the said County of Otsego, duly authorized to act as such, and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Justice, and that his signature to the annexed instrument is genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and official seal of the said County, at Cooperstown, this 29 th day of April 1854
Wm C Fields CLERK.

State of New York } Otsego County } s.s.
On the 25 th day of April 1854, personally appeared before me, a justice of the peace within and for the County aforesaid, Russell R. Chauncey aged 79 years, who being duly sworn according to law deposes and says, that he resides in Maryland in said County, that he was well acquainted with John Polly, a Revolutionary Pensioner, that said John Polly died at his residence in the town of Maryland, on, or about the 28 th day of August 1834, deponent cannot state positively the date of said Polly's death, but according to the best of his recollection it was on the day above mentioned, that he knows the fact that said John Polly died, that he was present when said Polly was laid out, and that he attended the funeral.
Deponent further states that he is acquainted with Phebe Polly of Oneonta in said County, that she is the Widow of the said John Polly, that he was acquainted with her in the lifetime of her said husband, and knew them to have lived together as Husband & Wife for several years, and he swears that he is a disinterested witness. Russell R. Chauncey
Sworn to and subscribed before me, on the 25 th day of April 1854, and I certify that Russell R. Chauncey the above deponent is a man of truth and veracity, and that the above statement is entitled to the fullest credit.
I further certify that I am not concerned nor in any way interested in the result of the case above referred to.
Horace D. Spencer } Justice of the peace

State of New York } Delaware County } ss.
On this 16 th day of September A.D. 1854 personally appeared before me, a Justice of the peace within and for the County and State aforesaid, Sarah Wakeman a resident of Sidney in the County aforesaid, Aged 62 Years who being duly sworn according to law Depose and saith, that she is a daughter of John Polly deceased late of the Town of Maryland in the County of Steago & State of N.Y. who was a Revolu- tionary Pensioner. That Phebe Polly of Oneonta Otsego Co. State aforesaid, is her step Mother, that her name before her marriage to the said John Polly was Phebe Miller, that she did not witness said marriage but was knowing to the arrangements preparatory to said marriage, and is knowing to their having lived together as Husband & Wife till the death of her father John Polly. That the Family Record herunto annexed containing the date of said marriage, was taken from the Family Bible of her said father, and the same is in his hand writing, that said Bible is now kept by her step Mother the said Phebe Polly -
State of New-York, } DELAWARE COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE, } ss
I, BENJAMIN CANNON, Clerk of the County of Delaware, and also Clerk of the Courts of said County, do hereby certify that William Gregory Jr Esquire, before whom the annexed deposition purports to have been taken, was at the time of taking such deposition, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Delaware aforesaid, elected and sworn, and duly authorized by law to take the same, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court and County, this 28 th day of September 1854
Benj. Cannon Clerk.
Justice of the Peace
Polly aforesaid present Oneonta the said
16 th day of Wakeman and that further certify test in the presence of Justice of the Peace

State of New York } Delaware County } ss.
On this 16 th day of September A.D. 1854 personally appeared before me, a Justice of the peace within and for the County and State aforesaid. Sarah Wakeman a resident of Sidney in the County aforesaid, aged 62 years who being duly sworn according to law, depose and saith, that she is a daughter of John Polly deceased, late of the Town of Maryland, in the County of Otsego & State of N.Y. who was a Revolutionary Pensioner. That Phebe Polly of Oneonta Otsego Co. State aforesaid, is her step mother, that her name before her marriage to the said John Polly was Phebe Miller, that she did not witness said marriage but was knowing to the arrangements preparatory to said marriage, and is knowing to their having lived together as husband & wife till the death of her father John Polly. That the Family Record heretofore used containing the date of said marriage, was taken from the family Bible of her said father, and the same is in his hand writing, that said Bible is now kept by her step mother the said Phebe Polly - Deponent further states, that her father John Polly died at Maryland in the County of Otsego & State aforesaid on the 28 th day of August 1854 that she was present at his burial, and that Phebe Polly of Oneonta is the identical person who is the widow of the said Polly.
Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 16 th day of September 1854 and I Certify that Sarah Wakeman the above named deponent is personally known to me, and that she is a person of truth and veracity, and I further Certify that I am not concerned in the prosecution nor interested in the result of the case here referred to William Gregory Jr Justice of the Peace

FAMILY RECORD.
BIRTHS.
BIRTHS.
   John Polley  Born  January  11  1762    Sarah Polley  Born  November  12  1764    David Polley  Born  Sept  28  1786    Charles Polley  Born  Apr  29  1788    William Polley  Born  March  4  1790    Sarah Polley  B  Decemb  11  1791    Lucey Polley  B  May  28  1795    John Polley  B  June  10  1797    Eunice Polley  B  April  1  1800    Jonathan Polley  B  March  3  1802    Abel Polley  B  June  8  1805   

FAMILY RECORD.
MARRIAGES.
MARRIAGES.
John Polley and Sarah Lyon Married November the seventeenth Seventeen Hundred & Eighty five Second Marriage John Polley and Phebe Miller Married December the 21 st 1818

20.655 (Ser Mar 3/55 Rev n 25/55
Phoebe Polley widow of John Polley (Oregon)
Copi David Edgar " Col. Elisha Sheldon, " Em Ct. Cartl. line, Ser —
War of Revolution
U S Pensions About 160 acres July 25/55
Burgess 10n.
3133 ip July 25/55
James C. Parker Franklin N.Y.
MS
July 53 - no. 4571
Vol P. page 109

211695 Claim of Thebe Polley for Bounty Land Act March 3 rd 1855
James O Patten Franklin Del Co N.Y.
State of New-York, DELAWARE COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE, } ss
I, BENJAMIN CANNON, Clerk of the County of Delaware, and Clerk of the Courts of said County, do hereby certify that William Gregory Esquire, before whom the annexed deposition purports to have been taken, was at the time of taking such deposition, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Delaware aforesaid, elected and sworn, and duly authorised by law to take the same, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court and County, this day of March 23 1858
Benj. Cannon Clerk.
11/20 11/20

State of New York Delaware County } ss.
On this 19 th day of March A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty five personally appeared before me, a justice of the peace within and for the County and State aforesaid. Phebe Polley, aged 73 years a resident of Oneonta in the state of New York who being duly sworn according to law declares that she is the identical widow of John Polley deceased, who was a Dragoon in the Revolutionary War, and a pensioner of the United States, that she cannot state the particulars respecting the service of the said John Polley, for proof of service she respectfully refers to the evidence which was filed in his application for Pension. She further states that she was married to the said John Polley, at Wortright in the County and State aforesaid, on the 11 th day of December A.D. 1818, by one John Bangs a minister of the gospel, that her name before her said marriage was Phebe Miller, that her said husband died at Maryland in the County of Allegany and State of New York on the 28 th day of August A.D. 1834. that she is a Pensioner of the United States, and for proof of her said marriage, and the death of her said husband she respectfully refers to the department to the evidence which was filed in her application for Pension. She further declares that she is now a Widow.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the Bounty Land to which she may be entitled under the act approved March 3 rd 1855, and she hereby appoints James C. Parker of Franklin Del Co. N.Y. her Attorney to receive a Warrant therefor from the Department of the Interior.
John C. Parker
We James Wakeman and James Wakeman Jr residents of Sidney in the state of New York upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Phebe Polley in our presence, and that we believe from the appearance and statements of the Applicant, that she is the identical person she represents herself to be.
James Wakeman
James Wakeman Jr
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to acknowledged and subscribed before me, on the day and year above written; And I certify that I know the affiants to be

State of New-York, DELAWARE COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE, } ss
I, BENJAMIN CANNON, Clerk of the County of Delaware, and also Clerk of the Courts of said County, do hereby certify that William Grary Esquire, before whom the annexed deposition was taken, was at the time of taking such deposition, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Delaware aforesaid, elected and sworn, and duly authorised by law to take the same, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the said Court and County, this 28 day of March 1858
Benjamin Cannon Clerk.
residents ss
20655 Chas. L. Potter Shake for Bound Land Act March 5 th 1855
James O. Parker Franklin Del Co NY

Credible persons, that the Claimant is the person she represents herself to be, and that I have no interest in this Claim William Grayson Jr. Justice of the Peace
20655 Claim of Polly Shake for Land Act March 3 rd 1855
James O. Parker Franklin Del Co NY

19.10.55
John Polley N G
Old case
roma
Schuyler Cook , Agent
Worcester Otsego County New York

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 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 John Polley of Otsego County New York
   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.     Enlisted 1781 10th Jan. 3 3 10 Private Capt David Polger Col. Elisha Sheldon — Lieut. Col. Garrison — Major. Benj. Tillymudge To the Hudson River N.Y. to Dobbs Ferry White Plains North Castle Wing Zee born of fair field County of Fairfield State of Connecticut Aged 70  
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 do hereby certify (h) that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the Court of the application of said Court in the matter 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. D.
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 (1) 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 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.
[t] If a witness cannot be found, the declarant must state the fact.
[m] The answers to the interrogatories must all be written, and sent to the War Department, with the declaration.

mmmsf
June 7, 1923
Mrs. C. A. Carleton 1424 East 3rd Street Long Beach, California
Madam:
In addition to the military history of John Polley War of Revolution, W. 10913, you are herewith furnished the following family data, names of the children of John Polley and his wife Sarah:
David born September 28, 1786. Charles " April -8, 1788. William " March 4, 1790. Sarah " December 11, 1791, married -----Wakeman and living in Sidney, Delaware Co., New York in 1854. Lucey " May 28, 1795. John " June 10, 1797. Eunice " April 1, 1800. Jonathan " March 3, 1803. Abel " June 8, 1805.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

✓ 3133
S
Vol. 1

ms 32 14282
W. Phoebe Potter
John W. Potter Annals of the Com.
Feb 2/53
Commissions of Pensions Washington City
D.C.

Dr 28 Aug 34
Pension Office
Oct. 6/54
Sir: Please report time of last payment to, or death of within named pensioner Your S er &c.
R. J. Atkinson Esq. & and
D. Calk for Comm ee .
Present,
John Polly died 28 Aug 1834. paid in full
Walter J. Mansfield
Auditor

0. 20695-
ACT OF MARCH 3, 1855.
Received March 29, 187 55
Phoebe Polley Wid of John Polley (dragon Capt David Edgar Col Elisha Sheldon
A cont. Mrs War of the Revolution
Warrant 3133-166-55
James O. Parker Franklin N.Y.

BRIEF IN THE CASE OF Phoebe Polley widow of John Otsego County and State of New York act of February 3-1853
CLAIM, ("original," or "for increase.") Allowed $100 per annum to Commence February 3-1853
PROOF EXHIBITED, (if original.)
Documentary & Parol. Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
Husband a pensioner under act of 1832 at $100. per annum & paid to his death Aug. 28. 1834
Dragoon
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Marriage proved by private record
Death shown by auditor's report.
Identity & widowhood proved by three credible witnesses
Papers properly attested
Name and residence of Agent
Jas. C. Parker Esqr Franklin Del. N.Y.
Examining Clerk.
J. H. Gray

1923 Nov 16
Crown of Pensions Washington city D.C.

Franklin Oct 2 d /54
Comm ee of Pensions
Sir allow me to say the case of Widow Polly her presented was made out according to the best of her recollection - being the second wife of John Polly, and having married him many years after the close of the Revolutionary War she of course can have no particular knowledge respecting his Revolutionary service.
The discrepancy between her first declaration and the Family Record, respecting the date of her marriage must be attributed entirely to old age and the consequent loss of memory.
She is a very worthy old Lady, but her memory is weak. She has no positive recollection of scarcely any thing that transpired so long ago.
Witnesses to her said marriage are all dead or removed to parts unknown.
The Department are respectfully requested to look favourably upon the case, the evidence being the best that can now be offered.
Respectfully Your O bt Servt
Jas O Parker Franklin Del Co N.Y.
L. P. Waldo Esq Comm ee Pensions Washington DC

1923 June 7 - Miss. To Minnie H. Carleton (Mrs. C.H.) let letter in ch. 15867 of Wm. Grinstead - MMH.
Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 10912
Steve Polley Widow of John Polley Drag New War
Act: Feb 31 58
Index: - Vol. M , Page 136
[Arrangement of 1870.]

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR,
BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Washington, D. C.,
June 7, 1923
In reply to your request of _____, for the history of  John Polley _____, a soldier of the Revolutionary War, the following is taken from the his and his widow's claim for pension.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     Jan. 10, 1781 to Nov. 17, 1783 Private David Edgar Elisha Sheldon's Cont. Dragoons        
Battles engaged in, None stated
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Fairfield, Fairfield Co., Conn.
Date of application for pension, Jan. 24, 1829. His ch. was ab.
Residence at date of application, Stamford, Delaware Co., N. Y.
Age at date of application, Born Jan. 11, 1762.
Remarks: He moved from Stamford, N. Y. to Milford, Otsego Co., N. Y. about 1830. He died Aug. 28, 1834 in Maryland, Otsego Co., N. Y. Soldies mar. Nov. 17, 1785 Sarah Lyon b. Nov. 17, 1764. (see supplement for names of their children). He mar. 2 nd time Dec. 11, 1818 in Kortright, Delaware Co., N. Y. Phebe Miller who was al. pen. on her ap. ex. Dec. 20, 1853 while a res. of Oneonta, Otsego Co., N. Y. aged 72 years.
Respectfully,

Other Policy

Revolutionary Claims.
Under the act, entitled "An act for the relief of certain surviving Officers and Soldiers of the Army of the Revolution," approved 15th May, 1828.
TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
7 May 1829
Sir :
Your claim under the abovementioned act has been examined. The act provides for no other non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates, than those who enlisted in the Continental line for the war, and served until its termination.  It appears by the muster rolls that you enlisted on the 10 th of January 1781 for three years. Your claim has therefore not been admitted. —
I am, sir, very respectfully, Your obedient servant.
Adamskins Acting Secretary
Mr John Polley

Mr. Sibley
**
10.9.12
C. Sibley

Revolutionary Claim
1492.
For the purpose of Obtaining the benefits of the act entitled An act for the relief of certain surviving Officers and soldiers of the Army of the Revolution approved on the 15 th of May 1828 I John Polley of Stamford in the County of Delaware in the State of New York do hereby declare that I enlisted in the Continental Line of the Army of the Revolution for and during the war and continued in its service untill its termination at which period I was a Private in Captain David Edgers Company in a Regiment of Cavalry commanded by Colonel Sheldon of the Connecticut Line And I also declare that the eighty dollars mentioned as being entitled to under a resolve of Congress passed the 15 th of May 1778 I know nothing about it And I further certify and declare that I was not on the fifteenth day of May 1828 on the Pension List of the United States
Witness my hand this 24 th day of January in the year 1829 John Polley
Before me John McDonald Jur d a Justice of the Peace duly empowered to administer oaths in the County of Delaware in the State of New York Personally appeared this day Nathaniel Hoagly and Joseph Mitchell of the said County who did severally make oath that John Polley by whom the foregoing declaration was subscribed is generally reputed and believed to have been a soldier in the Army of the Revolution in manner as therein stated Witness my hand this 24 th day of January 1829 Nathaniel Hoagly Joseph Mitchell John McDonald Justice of the Peace

State of New York County of Delaware ss
Before me John McDonald J t a Justice of the Peace duly empowered to administer oaths in the County of Delaware in the State of New York. Personally appeared this day Aaron Stevens and made oath that he is personally acquainted with John Polley who made the foregoing declaration and was knowing to his being a Soldier in the Continental Line of the Army of the Revolution from June One thousand seven hundred and eighty one to the close of the War That he served in a Regiment of Cavalry comm- -anded by Col d Elisha Sheldon in a Company Commanded by Captain David Edgar in the Connecticut Line And I further State that I joined the said Regiment with the said John Polley in Litchfield in the State of Connecticut in June above stated and that I was with the said Polley in Danbury at the time he was dis- -charged after the close of the war
Sworn and subscribed
Before me John McDonald J t Aaron Stevens a Justice of the Peace in & for the County of Delaware this 24 th day of January, 1829 John McDonald J t Justice of the Peace

State of New York Delaware County } ss
Before me John W Donald Jr a Justice of the Peace duly empowered to administer Oaths in the County of Delaware in the State of New York Personally appeared this day Walter Lyon and made oath that he is personally acquainted with John Polly who made the foregoing declaration and that he is knowing that he was a Soldier in the Continental Line of the Army of the Revolution to the close of the War that he served in a Regiment of Cavalry commanded by Colonel Elisha Sheldon in a Company commanded by Captain David Edgar in the Continental Line of the Army of the Revolution in the Connecticut Line and that I have been personally acquainted with him from that time to the present time
Sworn and subscribed before me John W Donalds Jr a Justice of the Peace in & for the County of Delaware this 24 th day of January 1829
Walter Lyon
John W Donald Justice of the Peace

I Crawford B. Sheldon Clerk of the of the Court of the County of Delaware in the State of New York do hereby cer- tify that John McDonald Esq. — Justice of the Peace before whom the foregoing affidavits were sworn was at the the time a Justice of the Peace and duly empowered to administer Oaths.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court this 26 th day of January 1829 Crawford B. Sheldon. Clk.

S. Kortright N.Y. 28 Janf.
Revolutionary Claim
Free
Hon. Richard Rush Sec. of the Treasury Washington City

So. Kortright 27. Jan'y 1829. N.Y.
Sir Enclosed is the application for Mr John Polley for relief under the act ap- -proving 15 May 1828. Of the documents sent are supposed to support his claim it is desired that you transmit to me the necessary documents to enable him to receive his pay. If any thing shall be lacking in support of his claim you will please have the goodness to point out the necessary requisites. I think there cannot be any doubt but what his proof here forwarded to support his claim is ample and suff- -icient in every respect.
I am sincerely respectfully Your Obedient Servant.
Martin Keele
Hon d Richard Rush Sec y Treasury

34,688 34,983
John Polly. Edgar Co 10 Jan 1781 - 3 yrs
War Department Bounty Land Office 5 May 1829.
The records of this Office, do not shew that John Polly of the Conn t line, ever received, or is entitled to bounty land of the W. States Robert Taylor

Not allowed Act 1828
1492
REVOLUTIONARY CLAIMS.
See #3006 Act Mills " #10,912 " "
TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
5 Feb 1829.
John Polley of Stamford in the County of Delaware in the State of New York has applied to the Secretary of the Treasury for the benefits of the act, entitled "An Act for the relief of certain surviving officers and soldiers of the Revolution," approved the 15th of May, 1828. He states that he enlisted in the Continental line of the army of the Revolution, for and during the war, and continued until its termination, at which period he was a Private in captain Edger 's company, in Col Sheldon's regiment of the Connecticut line; and that he did not received a certificate for the reward of eighty dollars, provided by the resolve of the 15th of May, 1778; and further, that he was not on the 15th day of May, 1828, on the pension list of the United States, and that he has received as a pensioner since the 3d of March, 1826, nothing .
The Third Auditor is requested to report how far the several statements are corroborated by the records in his office.
By order of the Secretary. F. H. Dickinson.
Act Mills File No 6,873
TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
THIRD AUDITOR'S OFFICE,
6 February 1829
It appears by the records in this office, that a certificate for the reward of eighty dollars has been issued to John Polley in the not
It further appears that John Polley - not - is now on the pension list of the any - - - - - agency, and has been so since the 3 d March 1826 at the rate of  dollars per month.
Certificates appear to have been issued in favor of John Polley of Col o Sheldon's Dragoons for his pay to the end of the war but as his name cannot be found among those to whom certificates for the reward of eighty dollars were issued, it would seem that he had not enlisted for the war -
Sam Hagan Aud

State of New York Otsego County ss
On this 9 th day of October of the term of October, personally appeared before the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas, in Open Court, at the Court House in Cooperstown in and for the County of Otsego, John Polley a resident of the Town of Milford in the County of Otsego and State of New York, aged seventy years on the 11 th day of February last, who being first duly sworn, according to Law, doth on his oath make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the Provisions made by the Act of Congress, passed June 7 th , 1832, that he enlisted in the Army of the United States on the 10 th day of January 1780 in the Town of Fairfield in the County of Fairfield, Connecticut as a Private Soldier for the term or period of three years, in a Company of Continental Troops commanded by Capt David Edgar, in a Regiment of Cavalry, belonging to the Connecticut Line, commanded by Col. Elisha Sheldon, Lieutenant Col. Simson and Major, Benjamin Tallmadge. And the said John Polley also declares in manner aforesaid, that he entered the service immediately on his enlistment as above stated, and continued in Actual Service in the War of the Revolution as a Private Soldier in Capt. Edgar's Company, and Col. Sheldon's Regiment until the close of the War, and was not discharged from service until the American Army was disbanded in November 1783. And the said John Polley further declares in manner aforesaid that he resided in the Town of Fairfield in the County of Fairfield in the State of Connecticut at the time he entered the service as above stated - and Marched to the Hudson River in the State of New York, was stationed at a place called Dobs Ferry - and also at White Plains, North Castle, and King Street, during the period of his service but he cannot recollect the length of time he remained at the several stations above named. And he hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a Pension or Annuity except the present, and he declares that his name is not on the Pension Roll of any Agency in any State. And for further particulars he the said John Polley refers to his oath and declaration hereto annexed, signed by him and sworn to before Seth Chase Esquire one of the Judges of this Court, as a reference thereto will more fully appear. Which oath and declaration and the facts therein stated are in all respects just and true.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid Horace Lathrop Clerk
John Polley

And the Said Court do hereby declare their opinion, that the above named Applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier and served as he states -
J. D. Moon } Judges of Seth Chase } the Court - J. Page
I Horace Lathrop Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County of Otsego, do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the Original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of John Polley for a pension - In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office this 18 th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty two -
Horace Lathrop. Clerk