Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 12064, for John Pryor, Virginia

SERVICE
NUMBER
Continental (Va.)
Pryor, John. Lake, Elizabeth Q. (former widow)
W. 12 06 H
{ B.L. W 1750-200. Capt. Lieut. Issued Aug. 10. 1789 to Richard Platt, assignee. No papers.
CONTENTS

Died! In this City. Majr John Pryor, an officer of the Revolution - A gentleman of fine understanding and fine manners - an excellent Companion, and extremely respected, and regretted by his acquaintances
The foregoing notice of the death of Majr John Pryor is a true copy from the "Richmond Enquirer" bearing date on the 25th day of March 1823. Given under my hand this 11th day of October 1856. Robert S. Wiglesworth Clerk to Enquirer office
The foregoing certificate was sworn to, and subscribed before me the day and year last above mentioned. and I also certify that the said affiant Robert S. Wiglesworth is Clerk of the "Richmond Enquirer". Given under my hand & Seal this 11th day of October 1856. James R. Nelson M.P.

The affidavit of Mrs Susan Lowry of the Town of Hampton, aged eighty six Years, taken at her house in said Town, on the 6 th day of December, in the Year 1856, before John M. Willis a Justice of the peace in and for the County of Elizabeth City, State of Virginia. This affiant being duly sworn according to law, States upon her oath, that she is the Daughter of Thomas Whiting deceased of the County of Gloucester, in this State, and is now in her eighty sixth Year of age. That she was intimately acquainted with Major John Pryor of the War of the Revolution. That she became acquainted with him in the Year Seventeen hundred and eighty, and knows of her own knowledge, that he held the rank either of Capt or Major in the War, and served to the final close of the same. She further States that the said Pryor, to her own certain knowledge, was the identical person after acted as aid to Major, Genl Lord Sterling. She further States that she does not know whether the said John Pryor was the identical person or not, who received, five Years full pay, from the Government, but she does know that he received a large amount of money on account of his Revolutionary service; and she also knows that he received from the State of Virginia a considerable quantity of said several Years after the end of the War, for his services for the Continental Line which said she knows that he sold because, she recollects distinctly of seeing him receive the money for it. She further States, that if there was computation

of five Years full pay received by any officer by the name of John Pryor for service within in the State or Continental Line during the Revolution, it was the said John Pryor, as she never heard of any other officer by that name, and she knows the fact of her own knowledge that the John Pryor whom she knew served as before stated in the Virginia Continental Line. This affiant further states that the said Maj. John Pryor married for his first wife a sister of hers. That after the death of her sister, he intermarried with a Lady by the name of Elizabeth D. Graves, which intermarriage took place in the City of Richmond very soon after the close of the last war, but she does not recollect the date. She knows the fact herself, that they were married and lived together as man and wife. She further states, that after the death of the said Maj. Pryor, which took place in Richmond about the Year, 1828, his widow the said Elizabeth intermarried with one Alva Lake of the City of Richmond. Who together with his wife the said Elizabeth D. Boarded in the house of this affiant in the City of Richmond about ten Years ago, and finally the said Lake removed with his wife and children to the City of Boston where the said Elizabeth D. Lake & children still reside. And her husband having recently died as this affiant has been credibly informed, his wife is now a widow. This affiant further states, that the aforesaid John Pryor did not leave at his death any several heirs, but that he left several Nieces and nephews in the counties of

Charles City, James City and the City of Richmond by the name of Hankins, and others whom she does not now remember.
Susan Lousy
The above affidavit, with the interlineations in the eleventh, and nineteenth lines, and twenty first lines of the same, sworn to and subscribed on the day and date first before mentioned in the caption, before me
John M. Willis J.P.
And I certify that the affiant is personally known to me, that I believe her to be of the age she states, and know her to be a highly respected, and credible person, of good and intelligent mind
John M. Willis J.P.
State of Virginia, Elizabeth City County, to wit:
I, Samuel S. Howard, clerk of the County Court for the County and State aforesaid, do certify that John M. Willis whose name is signed to the foregoing writings, is a Justice of the peace in and for said County, duly commission- ed and qualified according to law, that he is legally authorized to act as such and that the signatures above purporting to be his are genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said Court this sixth day of December in the year 1856.
S. S. Howard clerk

and J. Hall,
6099
Massachusetts.
Elizabeth L. Lake, formerly widow of John Pryor, Va.
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a Lt + Capt. of Arty. + Aid to Major Genl.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of $46 dollars 10 cents per annum, to commence on the 3d February, 1853.
Certificate of Pension issued 17th day of April 1857. and sent to
R. Saunders, Shackelford Va.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 3, 1853, Page 13. Vol. 76
R Saunders May 22. 1857 - R. H Gray June 10/58
Note of deposit not on AB

Declaration In order to obtain the benefits of the 2 nd section of the act of 3 rd February, 1853
State of Massachusetts, City of Boston, Town
On this 28 th day of August in the Year 1856, has only appeared before the Hon. Peleg Sprague Judge of the District Court of the United States for the District of Massachusetts in the City of Boston and State aforesaid, Elizabeth D. Lake, a resident of said City & State, aged Fifty six Years of age, who being duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the foregoing declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the second section of the act of Congress passed on the 3 rd of February, 1853, granting Pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War. That she is the former Widow of John Poyer, who was first a Captain, then a Major, and whose service as such was uncased from an early period of the war (she cannot state the exact date) till its final close in the Virginia Continental Line. That she cannot state the number of the Regiment to which he belonged, nor the exact time which he served, but she presumes the records and the papers pertaining to his service now on file in the State Department at Richmond, and Washington will show these facts, and to these she respectfully refers. She further declares that she was married to the said John Poyer her former husband, in the City of Richmond on the 22 nd day of February in the Year 1815, by one Parson Loey a Methodist Minister, and that her said husband died in the said City of Richmond on or about the day of in the Year 1823; and that her maiden name before her said marriage was Elizabeth D. Lake. She further declares that she has no private record of her marriage to her said husband, nor of his death, nor does she know of any public record of either of their marriage or of his death, but presumes there may be some public record to be found in the City of Richmond. She further declares that she was recently intermarried with one Alva Lake in the City of Richmond aforesaid on the 10 th day of May, in the Year 1825, and that they were married by one Parson Turner a Presbyterian minister. That her last named husband died in the Town of

Brandon in the State of Vermont, on the 2 d day of April in the present Year, 1856, and that she is now a widow. She further declares that she has never before made an application for a Pension; and hereby constitutes and appoints of the of her agent and attorney to Prosecute her claim and receive the Certificate
Elizabeth D. Lake (seal)
Sworn to, subscribed, and acknowledged the day and Year first before mentioned
Before me
Peleg Sprague } Judge of the District Court of the United States for the District of Massachusetts
United States of America, Massachusetts District I. S. E. Sprague Clerk of the District Court of the United States for the District of Massachusetts hereby Certify that the Hon Peleg Sprague before whom the aforegoing affidavit was made is Judge of the said District Court, and that the above signature is in his own hand writing.
In witness whereof I have hereto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the said Court the twenty eighth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty six.
J. C. Mayhew. Clerk.

January 29, 1937
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BA-J/EEI John Pryor-W.12064
Mrs. Bert R. Smith College Heights Bowling Green, Kentucky
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the records of John Pryor, captain in Preston's Company of Rangers, 1756-1758; also Revolutionary War records of Major John Pryor(Prior), of Virginia and Captain Luke Pryor, of South Carolina.
This office has no record of services rendered in the colonies prior to the Revolution, hence no record of Captain John Pryor, who served in 1756. There is no claim for pension on file based upon the military service in the Revolutionary War of a Luke Pryor or Prior. Such claims are the source of the data furnished by this office.
The data which follow are obtained from the papers on file in Revolutionary War pension claim, W.12064, based upon the military service in that war of John Pryor, the only soldier of that name or similar spelling, who served as an officer in the Virginia troops, that is found on the Revolutionary War records of this office.
John Pryor served as a lieutenant in the Virginia Continental Artillery from January 13, 1777, to July 27, 1777, and as captain-lieutenant of Artillery from July 27, 1777, to December 31, 1782, during which period he served from July 12, 1779, to December, 1780, as Aid-de-Camp to Major General Lord Stirling.
Warrant No. 1750, for two hundred acres of bounty land was issued August 10, 1789, on account of the services of John Pryor, as captain-lieutenant in Colonel Harrison's Regiment of Artillery.
In order to obtain information in regard to the location of the land cited above, you should address The Commissioner of the General Land Office, Interior Department, this city, and furnish that official with the number of the warrant, the acreage and the date of issuance of same.

John Pryor married the daughter of Thomas Whiting, of Gloucester County, Virginia; her Christian name, date of their marriage and date of her death are not shown; he married again February 22, 1815, at Hay Market, Richmond, Virginia, Elizabeth Quarles Graves, the granddaughter of Major James Quarles, of King William County, Virginia, who, it was stated, was also an officer in the Revolutionary War.
John Pryor died in the city of Richmond, Virginia, sometime in 1823. The exact date is not shown but it was reported in the issue of the "Richmond Enquirer" of May 25, 1823. He was then referred to as Major John Pryor, and it was stated that he was at one time president of the Virginia Society of the Order of the Cincinnati. His age at the time of his death was not given.
Elizabeth, widow of John Pryor, married May 10, 1825, at the home of her brother-in-law, Mr. Carter (his Christian name and the name of his wife not shown), in Richmond, Virginia, Alva Lake. They continued to reside at Richmond until about 1846, when they removed to Boston, Massachusetts. Alva Lake died April 2, 1856, at the home of his brother in Brandon, Vermont, where he had gone on account of ill health.
Elizabeth Q. Lake was allowed pension on account of the services of her former husband, John Pryor, on her application executed August 28, 1856, at which time she was aged fifty-six years and resided in Boston, Massachusetts.
It was stated that John Pryor left no lineal heirs but was survived by a number of nieces and nephews, some of whom were named Hawkins, and resided in the counties of Charles City, James City and in Richmond, Virginia. There are no further data in regard to them.
Two children of Alva and Elizabeth Lake are referred to: a son, Josephus, and a daughter, Mary. Said Josephus was residing in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1857.
Susan Whiting Lowry was a sister of John Pryor's former wife. In 1856, said Susan was a resident of Hampton, Virginia.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, the name and address of person paid and possibly the date of death of the Revolutionary War pensioner, Elizabeth Q. Lake, former widow of

John Pryor(W.12064), you should address The Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, this city, and cite the following data:
Elizabeth Q. Lake, former widow of John Pryor Certificate No. 6099 Issued April 17, 1857 Rate $546.10 per annum Commenced February 3, 1853 Act of February 3, 1853 Massachusetts Agency.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator.

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 12064
Elizabeth L Lake Widow of  John Pratt Capt U.S.N.
Act: Feb 22 1880
Index:—Vol. a , Page 418
[Arrangement of 1870.]
1919 Aug. 20. Visit to Mrs. Elmer M. Bampf. 4 1925 Apr. 28. " Mrs. C. McMillen 4 1933 Nov. 11. " Hon. John G. Cooper - Elk 1937 Jan. 29. Visit to Mrs. Bertha Smith - Elk 1940 May 22. " Mrs. A. E. Black and

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 12064  Elizabeth L Lake  Widow of  John Prior  Capt M. V. M.  Act: Feb 22 188  Index: Vol. a , Page 418
[Arrangement of 1870.]
1917 Aug. 20. Hilt. to Mrs. Eleanor M. Rombold. 4 1925 Oct. 29. " " Mrs. C. McMillan. 4 1933 Nov. 11. " " Hon. John G. Cooper - Est. 4 1937 Jan. 29. Hilt to Mrs. Bertha Corrick - Est. 4 1940. May 22. " " Mrs. D. E. Black and

No. 6.456.
Elizabeth Drake formerly widow of John Prior
Martha
for R. Saunders, Sept. 24/56 Same Octo 31 1856- Same Dec. 26/56.
Not Feb. 3. 1853

Rev. War Section.
August 20, 1919.
Mrs. Eleanor M. Bamford, 91 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
Madam:
In response to your letter dated the twelfth instant, you are advised that the papers in the claim of Elizabeth Q. Lake, formerly the widow of John Pryor, Wid. File No. 12,064 Rev. War, show that said John Pryor was a Lieutenant in the Virginia Continental Artillery from January 13, 1777 to July 27, 1777, and Captain-Lieutenant of Artillery from July 27, 1777 to December 31, 1782, during which period he served from June 12, 1779 to December - 1780, as Aid-de-Camp to Major General Lord Sterling.
On August 10, 1782, the United States Government issued a Warrant numbered 1,750, for two hundred acres of bounty land on account of the services of John Pryor as Captain-Lieutenant in Colonel Harrison's regiment of Artillery, to his assignee Richard Platt.
It is further stated that John Pryor was President of the Cincinnati Society of Virginia.
He married first, a daughter of Thomas Whiting, Gloucester County, Virginia, - her name and the date of marriage are not stated. He married the second time, at Hay Market in the city

of Richmond, Virginia, February 22, 1815, Elizabeth Quarles Graves aged fourteen or fifteen years, granddaughter of Major James Quarles of King William County, also an Officer in the Revolution.
John Pryor died at Richmond in 1823, and his death was reported in the "Richmond Enquirer" of May 25, 1823.
In 1856, Susan (Whiting) Loury, daughter of Thomas Whiting deceased, testified that John Pryor "did not leave at his death any lineal heirs, but that he left several nieces and nephews, named Hawkins, and others whose names she does not now remember."
Elizabeth Q. G. Pryor married in Richmond at the house of her brother-in-law Mr. Carter, on May 10, 1825, Alva Lake. They continued to reside at Richmond until about 1846, when they moved to Boston, Massachusetts.
Alva Lake died April 2, 1856, at Brandon, Vermont, whence he had gone on account of ill health, and Elizabeth Q. Lake was allowed pension for the services of her first husband John Pryor, on her application executed August 28, 1856, while a resident of Boston, Massachusetts and fifty-six years of age.
Very respectfully,
Commissioner.

VETERANS ADMINISTRATION
WASHINGTON
December 11, 1933
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
BA-J/EEI
John Pryor-W.12064
Honorable John G. Cooper House of Representatives Washington, D.C.
My dear Mr. Cooper:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request information in regard to Captain John Pryor, who served from Virginia in the Revolutionary War.
The data which follow were obtained from the papers on file in Revolutionary War pension claim, W.12064, based upon the military service in that war of John Pryor.
The date and place of birth and the names of the parents of John Pryor are not shown in the papers in the pension claim.
John Pryor served as a lieutenant in the Virginia Continental Artillery from January 13, 1777, to July 27, 1777, and as captain-lieutenant of Artillery from July 27, 1777, to December 31, 1782, during which period he served from July 12, 1779, to December, 1780, as Aide-de-Camp to Major General Lord Sterling.
Warrant Number 1750, for two hundred acres of bounty land was issued August 10, 1789, on account of the services of John Pryor as captain-lieutenant in Colonel Harrison's Regiment of Artillery. In order to obtain the location of the land, you should address the Commissioner of the General Land Office, Interior Department, this city, and furnish that official with the number of the warrant, the acreage and the date of issuance.
John Pryor married the daughter of Thomas Whiting, of Gloucester County, Virginia; her Christian name, the date of their marriage and date of her death are not shown; he again married on February 22, 1815, at Hay Market, in Richmond, Virginia, Elizabeth Quarles Graves, the granddaughter of Major James Quarles, of King William County, Virginia, who, it was stated, was also an officer in the Revolutionary War.

John Pryor died in the city of Richmond, Virginia, sometime in 1823. The exact date is not shown but it was reported in the issue of the "Richmond Enquirer" of date May 25, 1823. He was then referred to as Major John Pryor, and it was stated that he was at one time president of the Virginia Society of the Order of the Cincinnati. His age at the time of death was not given.
Soldier's widow, Elizabeth, married May 10, 1825, at the home of her brother-in-law, Mr. Carter (his Christian name and the name of his wife not shown) in Richmond, Virginia, Alva Lake. They continued to reside at Richmond until about 1846, when they removed to Boston, Massachusetts. Alva Lake died April 2, 1856, at the home of his brother, in Brandon, Vermont, where he had gone on account of ill health.
Elizabeth Q. Lake was allowed pension on account of the services of her former husband, John Pryor, on her application executed August 28, 1856, at which time she was aged fifty-six years and resided in Boston, Massachusetts.
It was stated that John Pryor left no lineal heirs but that he was survived by a number of nieces and nephews, some of whom were named Hawkins, and that they resided in the counties of Charles City, James City and in Richmond, Virginia. There are no further data in regard to them.
Two children of Elizabeth and Alva Lake are referred to: son Josephus Lake and a daughter, Mary. Said Josephus was residing in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1857.
Susan Whiting Lowry was a sister of John Pryor's former wife; in 1856, she was a resident of Hampton, Virginia.
There are no further family data.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of pension, the name and address of person, paid and possibly the date of death of Elizabeth Q. Lake, former widow of John Pryor (W.12064), you should apply to the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, this city, citing the following data:
Elizabeth Q. Lake, former widow of John Pryor, Certificate No. 6099, issued April 17, 1857, rate $546.10 per annum, commenced February 3, 1853, Act of February 3, 1853, Massachusetts Agency.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator.

May 22, 1940
Mrs. O. E. Black Lakeside Nebraska
BA-J/AWF John Pryor W. 12064
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request information in regard to John Pryor, Captain-Lieutenant, 1st Continental Artillery, February 13, 1777; Major and Aide-de-Camp to General Alexander, June 9, 1779, served until retired January 14, 1783. You state that you were advised from Richmond, Virginia, that this John Pryor was awarded 4555 acres of land. This land was not granted by the United States.
The data which follow were obtained from claim claim for pension, W. 12064, based upon military service of John Pryor in the Revolutionary War. This is the record of the only John Pryor who served as an officer in the Virginia troops, found on file in the Revolutionary War records of this office. The surname was searched under similar spellings.
The date and place of birth of John Pryor were not given, nor are the names of his parents shown.
John Pryor served as Lieutenant in the Virginia Continental Artillery from January 13, 1777, to July 27, 1777, and as Captain-Lieutenant of Artillery from July 27, 1777, to December 31, 1782, during which period he served from July 12, 1779, to December, 1780, as Aid-de-Camp to Major General Lord Stirling.
Warrant No. 1750, for two hundred acres of bounty

land was issued August 10, 1789, on account of the service of John Pryor, Captain-Lieutenant in Colonel Harrison's Regiment of Artillery.
John Pryor married the daughter of Thomas Whiting, of Gloucester County, Virginia; her christian name, date of their marriage and date of her death are not shown.
John Pryor married, Again, February 22, 1815, at Hay Market, Richmond, Virginia, Elizabeth Quarles Graves, the granddaughter of Major James Quarles, of King William County, Virginia, who, it was stated, was, also, an officer in the Revolutionary War.
John Pryor died in the city of Richmond, Virginia, sometime in 1823. The exact date is not shown, but it was reported in the issue of the "Richmond Enquirer" of May 25, 1823. He was then referred to as Major John Pryor, and it was stated that he was at one time President of the Virginia Society of the Order of the Cincinnati.
His widow, Elizabeth Pryor, married May 10, 1825, at the home of her brother-in-law, Mr. Carter (his given name and the name of his wife are not shown), in Richmond, Virginia, Alva Lake. Alva Lake, and his wife, Elizabeth, lived in Richmond, Virginia, until 1846, then moved to Boston, Massachusetts. Alva Lake died April 2, 1856, at the home of his brother (name not given) in Brandon, Vermont, where he had gone on account of ill health.
The widow, Elizabeth Q. Lake, was allowed pension on account of the service of her first husband, John Pryor, on her application executed August 28, 1856, at which time she was aged fifty-six years, and a resident of Boston, Massachusetts.
It was stated that John Pryor left no lineal heirs, but was survived by a number of nieces and nephews, some of whom were named Hawkins, and lived in the counties of

Charles City, James City, and in Richmond, Virginia. There are no further data in regard to them.
Reference was made to two children of Alva and Elizabeth Lake, son, Josephus, and a daughter, Mary. The said Josephus Lake was residing in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1857.
Susan Whiting Loury, sister of John Pryor's first wife, was living in 1856, in Hampton, Virginia.
The papers on file in this claim contain no further discernible family data.
If you desire information in regard to the location of the bounty land granted John Pryor, it is suggested that you apply to the Commissioner of the General Land Office, Interior Department, this city, and cite the following data:
Warrant # 1750- 200 acres- issued August 10, 1789.
In order to obtain the date of last payment of this pension, name and address of person paid, and possibly the date of death of the widow, Elizabeth Q. Lake, you should apply to the Comptroller General, General Accounting Office, Records Division, this city, and furnish the following data:
Elizabeth Q. Lake, former widow of John Pryor Certificate # 6099 Issued April 17, 1857 Rate $548.10 per annum Commenced February 3, 1853 Act of February 3, 1853 Massachusetts Agency.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Executive Assistant to the Administrator

Lakeside, Nebraska November 16, 1939
A.D.Hiller Veterans Administration Washington, D.C,
Dear Sir:
Quite some time ago I wrote you for any information regarding John Alexander Pryor, who was born in Amelia Co Va. 1750 and married Martha Vaughan.
You advised me to write to Richmond, Va. I did that and found that a John Pryor, whom I have reason to believe was my ancestor, had served in the Revolutionay War and had been awarded 4,555 acres of land.
I will quote the data sent to me:
"Historical Register of Virginians in the Revolution by John H. Gwathmey. P.641 Pryor, John, Capt. Lieut. 1st Continental Artillery Feb. 13, 1777; Major and Aide-de-Camp to General Alexander June 9, 1779; served until retirement Jan. 14, 1783; awarded 4,555 acres."
If this is correct you would have a record of it there. This is what I am most anxious to learn: Did this John Pryor have a wife and what was her name-abrother William or a brother Nicholas. Any mention of children and their names.
I do not wish to become a nuisance, but am so eager to establish these facts.
Sincerely,
Mrs. O. E. Black
Mrs.O.E.Black Lakeside, Nebraska

WESTERN KENTUCKY STATE TEACHERS COLLEGE BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Jan. 12, 1937
Mr. A. D. Miller, Executive Assistant, to the Administrator, Washington, D. C.
Dear Mr. Miller:
Will you please send to address below Revolutionary War data on John Pryor a Captain in Preston's Company Rangers 1756-57-58., in Botetourt County Virginia. Major John Pryor (Prior) of Va. Captain Luke Pryor of South Carolina.
Yours Very Truly, Mrs Bert R Smith Mrs. Bert R. Smith, College Heights, Bowling Green, Ky.
C 2nd R6 - C 2nd

Posedale, Miss — Mar. 3, 1925
The Commissioner of Pensions; Washington, D. C.
Sir:- Please tell me if you have on record where Joel David Rice received any pension or bounty land. He was a Sgt. of Inf. and fought with Virginia Soldiers - during the Revolutionary War.
(2) Did John P. Pryor, Captain of a Virginia Co; during the Revolution receive a pension or bounty lands -?
All information will be greatly appreciated and thanking you,
Sincerely, Mrs. C. M c Millan —

JOHN G. COOPER 19TH OHIO DISTRICT
COMMITTEE ON INTERSTATE AND FOREIGN COMMERCE
Congress of the United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C.
Dec. 7, 1933.
Mr. E. W. Morgan, Director of Pensions, Veterans Administration, Washington, D. C.
Dear Mr. Morgan:
Will you please advise me if your records disclose any information concerning a Captain John Pryor in the Revolutionary War from Virginia. It is understood that he served in the first Artillery Regiment, commanded by Col. Charles Harrison.
I should very much appreciate any information you may be able to give me concerning this officer's family.
Thanking you in advance, I remain,
Very truly yours,
John G. Cooper

MRS. ELEANOR M. BAMFORD GENEALOGIST 91 NORTH FRANKLIN STREET WILKES-BARRE, PA.
1000 1-715 11 Aug. 12, 1919
Department of the Interior Bureau of Pensions Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir:
May I request the favor of a copy of the pension records for the Revolutionary War of
Joseph Pryor of Virginia
John Pryor of Virginia, Major Aide de Camp to Gen. Alexander 9 June 1779
Thanking you for the records, I am
Very truly yours,
Mrs. Eleanor M. Bamford

Additional Enclosure Claim for Pension ent 3 rd Febry. 1853
R Saunders
agent
for E. D. Lakin

We whose names are hereunto subscribed, do hereby certify that we were intimately acquainted with Mr. Alvah Lake deceased the husband of Mrs. Elizabeth I. Lake of the City of Boston; and we know of our own personal knowledge that the said Alvah Lake was was a resident of the said City of Boston at the time of his death, but being in bad health he made a visit to Brattleboro in the State of Vermont, where he died, as we have been credibly informed and have no doubt of the fact on or about the second day of April in the Year 1856. From under our hands the nineteenth day of February in the Year, 1857.
Ezra Forristall Geo. H. Forristall
State of Massachusetts City of Boston ss. Be it known that on this nineteenth day of February in the Year, 1857, before me the undersigned a Justice of the peace within and for the City of Boston aforesaid, duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared Ezra Forristall and George H. Forristall, above named and made oath in due form of law to the truth of the foregoing Certificate to which their names are subscribed; and I certify that the

said Ezra Hornstall and George H. Hornstall are residents of the City of Boston, and are respectable and credit persons. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and date last before mentioned
Alfred T. Turner S d Commonwealth of Massachusetts "
Suffolk ss. Superior Court of the County of Suffolk — I Jos. A. Willard an Clerk of the Court of Superior Court of the County of Suffolk in the City of Boston in the State of Massachusetts, hereby certify that Alfred T. Turner whose genuine signature appears above is an acting Justice of the Peace within and for the County of City of Boston, duly Commissioned and qualified to act as such; and that full faith and credit is due to all his official acts.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of my said Court this twenty fourth day of February in the Year One thousand eight hundred and fifty seven
Jos. A. Willard the Clerk

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston, February 19 th 1857
I Hereby Certify, That at the date of the attestation hereunto annexed,
Alfred T. Turner
Was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Suffolk
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and constituted; and that to his acts and attestations, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, in and out of Court. I believe his annexed signature to be genuine
In Testimony of which, I have hereunto affixed the SEAL OF THE COMMONWEALTH, the date above written.
Deputy John D. Sleeper Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Additional Evidence Claim for Pension. filed 3 rd July 1853
R Saunders Agent for E & L Loke

State of Virginia, County of Henrico. } to wit:
I, John A. Harrison, Clerk of Henrico County Court, in said State, do hereby certify, that I have made search amongst the papers filed in my said Office, and find no marriage bond, executed by John Pryor on the occasion of his intermarriage with Elizabeth D. Graver or any other female.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of my said Court, this 16 th day of February 1857
John A. Harrison, C.M.C.

52 Washington St. Boston Sept. 16, 1857.
Sir,
Enclosed herewith I send the statement of Mrs. Elizabeth L. Lake, a pensioner under the 2 d section of the Act of February 3 d 1853, in regard to the detention of her pension certificate. I would most respectfully request that the Pension Agent here is authorized to pay her the amount due on the 4 th inst. notwithstanding the absence of her certificate.
I am, Sir, most respectfully Your obed t Serv t Warren Noall
Geo. S. Whiting Esq. Comm r of Pensions. Washington D.C.

June 10.

Pension Office,
June 10, 1858.
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the respecting the allowance in the case of Elizabeth D Lake as of February 3, 1858, you are informed that subsequent to the admission of the claim, a re-examination was made, and on motion denied - No evidence has since been filed.
Enquiries of this kind should be accompanied by power of attorney.
R. H. Gray Esqr Washington, D. C.

Near, Shuckafoord, King & Queen County. Va March 25 th 1837.
Dr Sir
I send herewith additional evidence in the claim of Mrs Elizabeth D Lake formerly widow Capt H. S. John Pryor. This evidence I hope Sir will fully cover the requisition in Your letter of the 26 th of Decemr. last. The fact of the Marriage License being obtained on the 22 d day of February the day on which the parties were married accounts in a measure for the the Marriage bond not being found, as in all probability in the hurry of the clerk to get out of his Office he omitted to file the bond. The marriage of the parties however can be no longer doubted, considering the high character of the evidence now adduced in support of the fact. Especially when taken in connection with the evidence of Mrs Hare who was present at the Marriage and whose testimony was filed with the application of Mrs Lake
Very respectfully Yr Obedt Servt R. Saunders
Gen. C. Whiting Esq r Comm r of Pensions

Brief in the case of Elizabeth D. Lake, form- erly widow of John Fryer, of Massachusetts. Act February 3, 1853, 2 Section,
Record evidence of service, with which her former husband is identified by common reputation; by the affidavits of persons of the highest respectability. Such as P. Mayo, clerk of the Federal Court at Richmond, Va. and Joseph Mayo, present Mayor of the city of Richmond, who swear that Fryer was President of the Virginia Cincinnati Society, which fact alone is sufficient evi- dence of service. And the testimony of one witness who knows of his service and knows of his having received land from the State of Virginia for his service, and was present when he received the money for the sale of the land thus allowed him by the State of Virginia.
Marriage proved by an eye witness to the ceremony.
Cohabitation, general reputation of their marriage, her identity as the soldier's widow; his death in 1823, the death of her second husband, and her present widowhood proved agreeably to our Regulations.
Sent to R. Saunders Esq. Shackelford Virginia
Thornton Triplett Examiner.

R Saunders
Sept 24

Pension Office, September 24, 1856.
Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 6 th instant I have to inform you, that the widow of a revolutionary soldier - becoming so after the passage of the act of February 3. 1853, is entitled to whatever pension her husband would be entitled to, (if now living) under any of the general pension laws.
The declaration of Elizabeth J. Lake for pension, under as the formerly the widow of John Prior, has been filed under said act of 1853, and awaits awaits the production of proof to sustain it.
Very resp ly JC
R. Saunders Esq y Near Shackleford's King & Queen Co Virginia

Elizabeth J. Lake, formerly widow of John Pryor- Mass.
amt 3 Feby 1853
6 mos & 14 ds St Int. $107.77 15 " " 3 " cap " 34.50 2 " " Br. kts to Mass Genl. 60.83 $203.10
a year from the passing of the Act.
Certs R Saunders Esq Shackelford Jr

Chief Clerk's Room May 17 1858.
Sir
Upon a review of the papers in the case of Elisha 2 Lake - wid of M c Dyer, Cap t U.S. N. & Aid, Act 1853 it is evident she is entitled to a pension of $600 per An m instead of $546.10. allowed to her.
By the accounts filed from Richd d V a that Dyer served from July 1777, as Capt t Lieut t of Art l to the 31 st of Oct 1782 - at $400 per An m .
And as Aid to Lord Shelburne 18 Mo - at $24 per Mo - from the 12 th June 1779 to the 12 th Dec r 1780 also, from the 13 th Jan y 77 to 27 th July 77 -
Yo will -
Recapitulation -
2 years, and more as Capt t Lt of Art l - at
$400 per An m -
$800
18 Mo. as Aid to Lord Shelburne - at $288. } while holding rank as Cap t Lt -
432
1/2 | 1232
$616
You will please certify for $600 - when the pen n balance of $546.10 is returned.
Yours
Hon Geo. C. Whiting. Present.
Robert H Gray All for her

R. Saunders
Dec 26/56

Pension Office, Dec. 26. 1856.
Sir,
I have examined the additional evidence in the case of Elizabeth D. Lake, formerly widow of John Priso.
There is doubtless a marriage bond on file in the County Clerk's Office at Richmond. A copy of which should be adduced, and also satisfactory evidence that the person who is now applying for pension is the same person who was married to John Priso marriage shall be thus proved -
The proof on file indicates that Claimant has resided at Beston continuously since her removal from Richmond; her second husband is shown to have died at Brandon, Vermont, This should be explained.
Very resply.
BC
R. Saunders Esq. } Near Shackleford, } King & Queen Co } Virginia.

Pension Office, May 22, 1857-
Sir,
If General Washington had overlived the passage of the Pension Laws, and had claimed the benefits promised by them, he could not have been allowed more than $600 a year? - for lex scripta est ,
You will not, therefore, be surprised that Mrs. Elizabeth D. Lake cannot be allowed a pension at the rate of $600. a year, on account of the services of her former husband, John Pryor, as you claim, - A pension cannot be computed for more two years services - and for this period, Mrs. Lake has been allowed for the services of her husband, in the several grades of Lieutenant and Captain of Artillery, in which he lost Sterling. No charge can be made in the allowance -
If she desires to have her pension paid at Richmond instead of Boston she should make a formal application to that effect and state, under oath, the reasons which influenced her,
R. Saunders, Esq. Shackelford Virginia

Additional Evidence Claim
Mrs E. 2 Lake
Pension
act. 3 rd Feb y
1853

Near Shacklefords Bridge & Second County Virginia Decemr. 9 th 1856
Dr Sir
You will find herewith the additional testimony required in your circular of the 31 st ult. Mrs. Lowry who certifies to the marriage of Mrs. Luke to John Pryor is the sister of Capt. John Pryor's first wife; and although she was unable to testify to his having received 5 Years full pay instead of half pay for life yet she certifies him as being the identical John Pryor who acted as aid to Major Genl. Lord Sterling and she also proves the further fact that he received from Virginia a large quantity of military stores which he sold & received the money for in her presence. These facts I think will be sufficient to certify the John Pryor who received the 5 Years full pay instead of half pay and who settled his account with the United States for pay as Capt. Lt and as aid to Lord Sterling to have been the former husband of the applicant Mrs. E. D. Luke. I hope also that the evidence of Mrs. Lowry establishes the fact beyond a doubt, that the applicant was lawfully

Marr ied to the said Pryor . The Applicant states in her declaration that she has no private record of her marriage nor did she know of any public one, and I have examined the Clerk's Office without being able to find such marriage. But surely Sir Pryor will not question the veracity of two such reputable witnesses as Mrs Lowry the sister of Pryor's first wife, and Mrs Foss who testified to the fact of being present at the marriage. The death of her last husband is proved by the names of Lewis Belknap, & Lewis Rufus whose certificates are herewith enclosed.
Very Respectfully
To my oldest Respectfully
[Handwritten signature]
Geo C Whiting Esq. Board of Directors Washington City D.C.

This is to Certify that I was intimately acquainted with Major John Pryor deceased late of this City, and was a frequent Visitor at his house during his life, and up to his death. I was also acquainted with Mrs Pryor, his last wife, whose maiden name, was Elizabeth Duartes Graves, and to whom the said Pryor was regarded by his friends and acquaintances, as having been married. They lived together as man and wife, and were so considered. My acquaintance with him commenced about the Year, 1815, or 16 - or thereabouts. I also know that Major Pryor, was a reputed Officer of some rank in the War of the Revolution. Mrs Pryor, after the death of her husband the said Pryor, entered married I know with a Mr Alvah Lake who, together with the said Elizabeth D. his wife, removed from this City to the State of Massachusetts; and I have no hesitation in saying that the Elizabeth D Lake, who is now an Applicant for a Pension, is the identical person, who was the reputed widow of the said John Pryor. Given under my hand this 18 th day of February in the Year 1857
(Mays)
I fully corroborate all the above statements made by Mr. P. Mays in regard to Major John Pryor dec d & his last wife, who was Elizabeth D. Graves. I became acquainted with them about the same time that Mr. Mays did, & knew them intimately up to the time of Major Pryor's death, at which time, his family & mine occupied the same house. Given under my hand this 18 th day of February A.D. 1857.
Philip M. Tabb.

Maple Elizabeth L. ... John ... No Papers
Shackelford ... Sept 7 th - 3
Free
Ward ... Commencement of Recess Washington City D.C.

Near, Shacklefords, King & Queen County Virginia September 6 th 1884.
Dr Sir
You will receive herewith the declaration of Mrs Elizabeth L. Lake, former widow of John Pryor of the War of the Revolution, claiming a Pension under the act of Congress passed on the 3 rd February 1853 - I have not accompanied the application with the evidence of service nor visa grade, because there is some doubt resting on my mind, as to the construction placed by the department on the second section of that act, whether you construe it to apply to such persons as might thereafter become widows, as well as to those who were widows at the passage of the act.
There is no doubt on my own mind that Congress meant that the benefits of the act should apply as well to those who might become widows, as to those who were then widows, but I have not been placed in possession of any decision of the department on this point, and therefore simply send you the declaration of Mrs Lake and must request the favor of you to say whether her claim, according to any decisions of the department, comes within the meaning of said act. If the claim comes under the construction of

law, I will then furnish all the necessary proofs. Be so kind as to let me have from you at your earliest convenience and oblige
Yr M c ob d Serv t
Richard D.
[Handwritten signature]

Near Shackelford, King & Queen County Virginia October 17 th 1856,
Dr Sir
I have the honor to enclose herewith the evidence of Mrs Elizabeth D r Lake's marriage to her former husband, Majr John Pryor, who was a Capt St in the War of the Revolution; and also an affidavit to Majr Genl Lord Sterling, the proof of which I also send herewith.
Mrs Lake's application for a Pension as the former widow of John Pryor is now on file in your department, awaiting the evidence now forwarded.
Very Respectfully, Mr M c G h L h S t Reference
Hon d J. M c Intire Com d of Pensions Washington City
11 33 11 " " "

R. Saunders
Oct 31/36
P

Pension Office
October 31 1856
1853)
Sir
Mrs Elizabeth D Lake of Mass must be identified as the widow of the Officer of her husband's name  former (John Pryor) name who served as a Lieutenant Captain in the War of the Revolution and who received 5 Years full pay in lieu of 1/2 pay for life. This must be done by witnesses who know the fact, she should also prove her marriage by record or show that no such evidence can be obtained, she should also prove the death of her last husband by some one who is cognizant of the fact that he is dead.
R Saunders Esq
Shackelford Va

I do hereby certify that I was intimately acquainted with the late Major John Pryor deceased of this City, and know that he died about the Year, 1828, leaving a widow, whose maiden name, before her marriage, was Elizabeth Prane, a Grand Daughter of Major James Lucas, of the County of King William. Soon Shortly after the death of Major Pryor, his wife inter married with a Mr Alvah Lake whom I knew, and who was a Stone Cutter by Trade, residing at that time in this City, but who subsequently removed with his family to the State of Massachusetts, where he continued to reside up to the time of his death, which occurred as I am informed some time during the past Year. I would further add that Major Pryor, was reputed and known to have been an Officer of rank in the War of the Revolution, and I have no hesitation in saying that I believe the individual now applying for a Pension in the name of Elizabeth D Lake, is the identical person, who was the widow of the said John Pryor, as heretofore stated. Given under my hand this 19 th day of February, 1857.
Joseph Mayo
Major Pryor was President of the Cincinnati Society of 76.
J Mayo

State of Virginia
City of Richmond, to wit:
I, Robert Howard clerk of the Court of Hustings for the said City hereby certify that Joseph Mayo whose name is signed to the within certificate is now and was at the time of signing this same Mayor and ex officio a Justice of the Peace in and for said City duly qualified and that his said signature is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court this 19 th day of February 1857.
Rob: Howard, clk

Dear Shackleford as King & Queen Co. Virg. May 12, 1887 th D r Sir
The Certificate of Pension issued to Mrs. Elizabeth D. Lake formerly widow of John Poyer as Lieut. Capt. and aid to Majr. Genl. Lord Shelburne on the 17 th of last month has been duly received by me. Your aid etc. I think, allows Mrs. Lake as I make her annual as the evidence of service entitled her to; and I must therefore ask You to reconsider the case.
The evidence shows that John Poyer served first as Lieut. of Artillery from 18 th January 77. to 27 July following (1778). Then as Capt. D. from 27 th July 78. to 31 st of December 1780. Three Years, five months & upwards.
Then as aid to Majr. Genl. Lord Shelburne from 12 th June 79. to Decemr. 1780. One Year & six months.
Now, putting his pay for service in the line down to $33 1/3 per month as Capt. D. and which was the pay allowed him in the settlement of his account with the Government for his 8 Years full pay, his widow would be entitled to the annual sum of $400.
Then putting his pay for service as aid etc. at $24 per month, which amount per month he was entitled to, and which was allowed him in the settlement, she would be entitled to the additional sum of $216 more, making the annual amount $616.00 instead of $546.10. Two Years service as Capt. D. under the law, gives a full Pension of $400. alleged And two Years service as aid also gives also a full Pension of $288. but having served only eight months

months in that capacity, it would only give $18 per month, which would be $216 per annum. My own opinion however is that Capt Paynter was entitled and ought to have been paid at the rates of $40 per month for his services as Capt Sts, and $24 as aid. If I am not mistaken his rank as Capt Sts of artillery was equal to a Capt of Infantry; and that the State of Virginia, and the Genl Government also, had especially in the settlement of Pensions & half pay claims allowed to Capt Sts of artillery the same amounts per annum, that was allowed to Captains of Infantry.
You will please give the care your earliest convenient attention and oblige Very
Respectfully Yr. Most obedt Servt W. Saunders
P.S.
As it is Mrs Lake's wish & purpose to return to the State of Virginia again to reside, would You have any objection to making the Pension payable at Richmond instead of Boston?
W. S.
Geo B Whiting Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington City

D rs The United States in ac c with John Pryor Cr rs
   1782 To pay as cap. D rs artillery from Jan y 1 st to December 31 st 400 " By Pm G d for pay 100 "   Balance due. - 300 "   400 "   To five years full pay in lieu of half pay. 2000 " By certificates 2000 "     Richmond December 23. 1784. V. Pryor   Sett d by himself  
I, George M. Clutter, Auditor of Public Accounts, hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy from a book on file in this office, of copies of accounts as settled with the officers, non comm d officers, and privates of the late Regular Army of Virginia by Andrew Dunscomb ap d comm d of Army accounts and particularly appointed for that State. Given under my hand at the Auditor's Office, in the city of Richmond Virginia the 11 th day of October 1856.
G. M. Clutter Aud. Pub. Accts.

This is to certify that I am now Eighty six Years of age, have been a resident of the City of Richmond for more than seventy five Years; and was intimately acquainted with the within mentioned John Pryor, who, from my earliest acquaintance with him, and up to the day of his death, bore the title of Mayor. But whether he acquired the title while in the war of the Revolution, or after its close I do not know. He married for his second, and last wife, Miss Elizabeth D. Gooch of this place, whom I also knew very well, and after his death which occurred about the Year, 1820, she intermarried with a person by the name of Sisk. Given under my hand this 13 th day of Octo, 1856. Anderson Barrett
State of Virginia. City of Richmond. To wit The foregoing Certificate of Anderson Barrett was subscribed, and sworn to before me, a Justice of the peace in and for the City of Richmond, duly authorized by law to administer oaths for general purposes, this 13 th day of October in the Year, 1856. and I certify that the said Barrett is a respectable and credible person.
H. C. Lipscombe J.P.

State of Virginia
City of Richmond, to wit:
I Robert Howard, clerk of the Court of Hustings for the said City, do hereby certify that N.C. Lipscomb whose name is signed to the within certificate is now and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said City duly qualified & that his said signature is genuine
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of the said Court this 14 th day of October 1856.
Rob: Howard, Clk

The offfeciente of Mary Fore of the City of Richmond in the State of Virginia, taken before me Hawes Nelson a Notary public — in and for said City, duly authorized by law to take acknowledg- ments, and administer oaths for general purposes.
This affiant being duly sworn, according to law, on her oath states, that she is a resident of the City of Richmond. That she was well acquainted with Mrs Elizabeth D Lake, of the City of Boston. That the said Mrs Lake, maiden name was Elizabeth D. Groves, and that the said Mrs E. D. Lake, was the former widow of Majr. John Pryor, of the said City of Richmond a reputed Officer of the Revolution. That she the affiant, was present at the marriage Ceremony of the said Mrs E. D. Lake, to the said Pryor which Ceremony was perform- ed by Parson Gacy, in the City of Richmond in the month of February 1815, but the affiant does not recollect the particular day. After the death of her first husband Pryor, she intermarried with a man by the name of Lake, who subsequently removed with his wife & children, the said E. D. Lake, to the City of Boston.
Sworn to and subscribed this 11th day of October in the Year 1850 before me.
Mary A. Fore.
Hawes Nelson
I certify that the writing of Mrs Mary A. Fore is credible & respectable. Given under my hand & seal the date last above mentioned
(seal above)
Hawes Nelson

John Mrs E. L. Lake formerly widow. John Pryor. Aug. 13 th 1857.

Sheldon June 18, 1887
Mr. Saunders
Dear Sir,
I have just received your letter and hasten to answer it. I am very much surprised indeed that they should require any more evidence to prove that I am the identical person. I will give you whatever information I can and if that does not suffice, it will be useless to proceed in that case any further, for if they are so negligent as not to record things that is of so much consequence, it will be useless to waste time any further in that case. I have said once the day and year that I was married to Major Pryor and what more can I do, all I can say is that the certificate of our marriage was got in Richmond on the very day of our marriage.

the 22 nd day of February the year that peace was proclaimed in the last war and another thing that I notice in the copy of the letter that you received, which I appears a doubt of my being the identical person, why it is that my being a continual resident of Boston since my removal from Richmond that my second husband died in Brandon is the most absurd doubt that could have been brought up, and which can easily be satisfactorily explained I think, it is true that I have resided in Boston ever since my removal from Richmond, but my husband being out of health went on a visit to his Brothers in Brandon Vermont and died at his Brothers for he was not able to return to Boston. If they wish it proved that I am the identical person, I can refer them to Mr Andrew Stevenson who was Minister to England at the time that President Jackson was in office and Joseph Mayo Lawyer, and Mr Rutherford, and many

others say but if they desire my presence to prove me the identical I will go to Richmond, and I can there find enough who would step forward and prove me the person that I say that I am, you say that you wish me to write immediately on the receipt of your letter so that you may prepare the necessary statements for my Son and myself to make on the points that have been made, Josephus is away from home at this time, my Son can make none other than I have, but if it is required that he should, he can on his return do so, you have not said any thing at all in reference to my Grand-father's claim, I do not wish to be troublesome to you any more than I can help, but I should like very much to hear from you also on that case I remain dear Sir
Yours Respectfully
Mrs Elizabeth, D. Lake.

This is to Certify that we were well acquainted with Mr. Alva and Elizabeth D. Lake, his wife of the City of Boston and we know that Mr. Alva Lake, the husband died in the Town of Brandon in this State Vermont on the second day of April last 1856. Given under our hands, this 7th day of November in the Year 1856. Lewis Belknap Lewis Russell
State of Vermont, Town of Brandon to wit on this Rutland County ss On this 7th day of November in the Year 1856, personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace in and for said Town, duly authorized by law, to administer oaths, Lewis Russell and Lewis Belknap above named, and made oath in due form of law, to the truth of the foregoing Certification to which their names are subscribed; and I certify that the said Witnesses are personally known to me to be respectable and credible persons. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand the day and date last above mentioned. B. Davenport Justice of the Peace
State of Vermont I A. L. Brown deputy clerk of Rutland County Court hereby certify that B. Davenport Esq whose genuine signature appears above was at the date thereof an acting Justice of the Peace of said County duly commissioned and qualified to act as such; and that all his official acts as such are entitled to full faith and credit.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of my said Office this seventeenth day of November in the Year 1856. A. L. Brown deputy clerk

Declaration Elizabeth D. Lake Pension. acc. 3 rd Feb. 33 former, widow. Rev. Payson War, Revolution

John Pryor a c d s 307 United States

with John Pryor
65
  1781 By pay & subsistence rec d at Sund times 587 04 — 83 12 9   Jan. By cash of Treasurer of Virginia 7800 — — 104 — —   Aug t By. . . do of Capt. Bohannan P. Master 6000 — — 12 — —   By sundries at Yorktown Virginia 20 — —   By sundries of Mr. Mox 16 18 6   Certificates 559 17 9   29th January 1783. Sworn to before D. Clarke 
nts, hereby certify, that the foregoing is a true copy d by State Auditor's - filed in this office - office, in the city of Richmond on the 10 th day of October 1856.
G. H. Glutter
And Pub. Accts.

Dr The United States In account
with John Pryor
65
  To pay as St. of Artillery from 13 th Jan y 77 to 27 th July followg 64 13 14 1781 By pay & subsistence rec d at sund times 587 04 — 83 12 9   No 580 To pay as capt d from 27 th July 77 to 27 th 78 at £12. 120 — — Jan y By cash of Treasurer of Virginia 7800 — — 104 — —   To pay as do from 27 th May 78 to 31 st Dec r 81 at £10 431 — — Aug t By do of capt d Bohannan P st Master 6000 — — 12 — —   To pay as A. D. C. to Major Gen l Lord Sterling from 12 th June 1779 to December 1780 129 12 — By sundries at Yorktown Virginia 20 — —   To Retain d rations 52 3 8 By sundries of Mr s Mobs d certificates 559 17 9 16 18 6   29 th January 1783 sworn to before D. Clarke 
I, George M. Clutter, Auditor of Public Accounts, hereby certify, that the foregoing is a true copy from a book of copies of accounts Sett d by State Auditor s - filed in this office - given under my hand at the Auditor's office, in the city of Richmond on the 10 th day of October 1856.
G. M. Clutter Aud. Pub. Accts.
John Pryor acct 507 State Auditor

I do hereby certify that I am a resident of the City of Richmond, am now sixty four years of age, and that I am the Daughter of the Rev d Edmund Lacy, the Methodist Minister of the Gospel, mentioned in the foregoing Certificate of Mr B. Graves, and distinctly recollect all the circumstances connected with the marriage of the parties mentioned in the said Certificate. I was not present at the marriage myself, but I know that the marriage took place at a place called Hay Market, in said City, and that my Father performed the marriage rites, for I well recollect that he came home after performing the ceremony, and remarked to my Mother that he had just married Mass t John Pryor to Elizabeth Graves, and that there was certainly a very great disparity in their ages, he being quite an old man, and she only some fourteen or fifteen years of age. I do not recollect the date of the marriage, but believe it was some time in the Year 1815 as near as I now remember. Mass t Pryor was reputed, and in fact known by many, my Father among the rest, as having served as an Officer of high rank in the Army of the Revolution, and was, with all highly respected and esteemed. His wife was a highly respected young lady, whose marriage to Mass t Pryor was never doubted, on the contrary they were looked upon, & regarded by all who knew them, as having been lawfully married. She was a Grand Daughter of Major James Deane, who was also a reputed Officer of the Revolution, and I believe some relation of Mass t Pryor, but of this I cannot state positively. I knew Mrs Pryor, before and after her marriage to him, and I know that her maiden name, was Elizabeth Deane Graves.
I would further certify that after the death of Mass t Pryor his widow, the said Elizabeth D, intermarried with a Gentleman by the name of "Abiah Lake, a Stone Cutter by trade, and at the time a resident of this place, but who has subsequently, together with his wife & family, removed to the City of Boston. I would further state that the said

Mrs Lake, was also lawfully married to her last husband, the said Alvah Lake. After the death of Major Pryor, and the disposition of his estate, his widow, became an inmate of my family, and went from my house, a day or two before her marriage to Mr Lake, to the house of Mr Carter, who married a sister of hers, when she was married. I would further certify that the said Mrs E. D. Lake has by her last husband, five children, whose Christian names are Josephus, and Mary Lake; and that the said Mary Lake has frequently, since their removal from this City corresponded with one of my own daughters, and I can therefore positively assert, that the Elizabeth D. Lake, who is now an applicant for a Pension, is the identical person who was married by my Father as aforesaid to Major John Pryor. Given under my hand in the City of Richmond this 17 th day of February in the Year, 1857
W. H. Hatcher
State of Virginia City of Richmond to wit On this 17 th day of February, 1857, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the peace, in and for said City, duly authorized by law to administer oaths, Mrs Sarah Hatcher above named and made oath in due form of law to the truth of the facts contained in the foregoing certificate to which her name is subscribed. And I certify that the said Mrs Sarah Hatcher, is personally known to me, and is a highly respectable and credible person, whose statement is entitled to full faith & credit.
I further certify that the attestation in the age of my 74; from sixty seven to sixty four and the attestation of the same occurs to date from made before my eyes also the attestation the name of same to be Sarah Hatcher
Thomas M. Dudley J. P.
W. H. Hatcher J. P.

This is to Certify that I am now sixty five Years of age, have been Continuously a resident of this City, Richmond for nearly fifty Years; and was personally well acquainted with Major John Pryor of the said City, who was reputed and known to have been an Officer of rank in the War of the Revolution. I was also acquainted with his last wife, whose maiden name before her marriage to the said Pryor was Elizabeth Duales Graves, a Grand daughter of Majr James Duales, who was also I believe an Officer of the Revolution. as I understand I was not present at the marriage nor can I state particularly the day month or Year, but this much I do know, that I was married myself, in the Year 1816, and I believe that Majr Pryor was married before I was. And I also know that he was generally regarded by his friends and acquaintances as having been lawfully married to the said Elizabeth D. Graves. I would further add that the force of the marriage was never to my knowledge, questioned.
I further Certify that the said Elizabeth D. Pryor, after the death of Major Pryor, (which I think took place about the Year, 1823) intermarried with a man by the name of Lake, whose Christian name I cannot remember, but he was, I believe a Stone Cutter by trade and subsequently removed from this place with his wife and family, to the City of Boston. Of the legal marriage of Majr Pryor, to his last wife, the said Elizabeth D. Graves, and now, Elizabeth D. Lake I would again say there can be no doubt, or question, for if such had been the case, I can confidently say that such men as Andrew Stevenson, Judge Upshaw, and many others of the highest respectability of this place, would not have regarded them as entitled to their respect and esteem and I know that Mr Stevenson, and Judge Upshaw both, were particularly fond of Majr Pryor and were frequent visitors at his house. I would further state that I was personally acquainted with the

Rev d Edmund Lacy during his life, and who lived and died in this place; and I know that he was a Methodist Minister of the Gospel duly authorized to solemnize the rites of marriage. I would further add that the said Edmund Lacy has now living in this City, a daughter, Mrs Sarah Hatcher, who is a very near neighbor of mine, and who is a highly respectable and intelligent person. Given under my hand this 17 th day of February, in the Year, 1857.
B. W. Graft.
State of Virginia City of Richmond town On this 17 th day of February in the Year 1857, before me, a Justice of the peace in and for the said City duly authorized by law to administer oaths, personally appeared Bartholomew Graft above named, and made oath in due form of law to the truth of the foregoing Certificate; and I certify, that the said Graft is personally known to me to be a respectable and credible person. Given under my hand in the City of Richmond this 17 th Feby 1857. Thomas U. Dudley J.P.
I further certify that the words "as I understood" were inserted before signed T. U. D. J.P.
State of Virginia; City of Richmond, Town:
I, Robert Howard, clerk of the Court of Hustings for the said City, hereby certify that Thomas U. Dudley whose name is above signed is now & was at the time of signing the same a Justice of the peace of said City, duly qualified, that his sign- ature is genuine. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & affixed the seal of said Court, this 18 th February 1857. Ro. Howard, clk.