Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 9480, for George Shepherd, New Jersey

SERVICE
NUMBER _____
New Jersey
Shepherd, George
R 9480.
Catharine B.L.Mf. 91085-160-55.
CONTENTS

302.326 Act Mar 3/50
Aug 15/59
Catharine Shepherd wid of George Shepherd Print
Capt Spear Rev Rev
Revolution
Ms 1.1.26 CW: 160 CW, Dec. 10/59
Recd Dec 10/59 Nov 2/59 B...
B...
L.C. Dickey Present
L.C. Dickey Rev book same Oct 10/59

302.326
Bounty Land Claim of Mrs. Catharine Shepherd, widow of George. Act of 1855.
Revolutionary War Original Application
Specs. Mr. J. C. Dickey. Attorney Present.

State of New Jersey } ss. Hudson County }
On this Twelfth day of August A.D. 1859 personally appeared before me a justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid Mrs. Catharine Shepherd, aged 96 years, a resident of the aforesaid County, who being duly sworn according to law declares that she is the widow of George Shepherd, deceased, who was a private in the company commanded by Captain Abraham Speer of New Jersey Militia, in the 1 st or 2 d regiment commanded by Major Wm. Dey or General Dey in the Revolutionary war; that her said husband volunteered in the year 1779 in - or near - Essex County New Jersey, for the term of during the war, and continued in actual service in said war for more than fourteen days, and was honorably discharged at the close of said war in the year 1783, in the State aforesaid.
She further states that she was married to the said George Shepherd on the 28 th day of August 1782, in Bergen County New Jersey, by the Rev. Wm. Jackson of the Dutch Reformed Church, and that her name before her said marriage was Catharine Van Kinkle; that her said husband died in Hudson County New Jersey on the 26 th day of March 1843, and that she is now a widow; and for the truth of the aforesaid facts she refers to her application for a pension now on file in the Pension Office; Said declaration for pension being made on the 19 th day of May A.D. 1838.
She makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining the bounty land to which she is entitled under the Act approved March 3 rd 1855. And she further declares that she has not received or applied for bounty land under this or any other Act of Congress.
Witness my hand —
Catharine her Shepherd mark
John Lipe
A. H. Marten

We John Tise and John T Tise residents of the County of Hudson aforesaid, upon our oaths declare that the foregoing declaration was signed and acknowledged by Mrs. Catharine Shepherd 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; and further that we know her to be now the widow of the aforesaid George Shepherd, and that we have no interest in this claim.
John Tise John T Tise
The foregoing declaration and affidavit were sworn to and sub- scribed before me on the day and year above written; and I certify that I know the affiants to be credible persons; that the Clai- mant is the person she represents herself to be, and is still a widow, and that I have no interest in this claim.
Adolphus W Martin Justice of the Peace In and for Hudson County N.J.
State of New Jersey } ss. I Robert Gilchrist Clerk of Hudson County Hudson County } Do hereby certify that Adolphus W Martin before whom the foregoing declaration and affidavits were made, is and was at the time of taking the same an acting Justice of the Peace, in and for the county of Hudson aforesaid, duly qualified and sworn; and that his signature above is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 15 th day of August 1859.
In R. Gilchrist Andrew Mount (Clerk)

Mrs. Shepherd must have served at least 1 term of Military duty Blyton V.
Dec: 10/59

19 May 1858 State of New Jersey County of Hudson, S s
On this nineteenth day of May A.D. One thousand Eight hundred & fifty Eight personally appeared before me, one of the judges of the Orphans Court, a Court of Record in and for the County of Hudson in the State of New Jersey Mrs. Catharine Shepherd aged Ninety four years, a resident of the County of Hudson in the State of New Jersey; who being first duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed July 4 th 1836 and the act explanatory of said act passed March 3 rd 1837. ; That she was married to George Shepherd who was a private Soldier in the war of the Revolution in a company commanded by Capt Abraham Spear or Spier, of Essex or Bergen County in a Regiment of New Jersey Militia, being the first or second Regiment commanded by Major Winder and Colonel or General Gray. That her said husband entered the said above service in the County of Bergen in the State of New Jersey some time in the years A.D. one thousand seven hundred & seventy nine or A.D. One thousand seven hundred & eighty one & within said time, and that he continued in the said service until the close of the said war; having ser- ved the time for which he engaged he was honorably discharged at the close of said war That he performed the said service in the state of New Jersey in the Company and Regiment commanded by his su- perior officers aforesaid at places known as Elizabeth Town Point and Staten Island: the former in New Jersey and the latter now in the state of New York, and at second or two rivers around cedar swamp and at and around Hackensack in the County of Bergen & state of New Jersey
She further declares that she was married to the said George Shepherd on the twenty sixth day of August A.D. One thousand seven hundred and eighty two in Bergen County in the state of New Jersey by the Reverend William Jackson a minister of the Gospel of the Dutch Reformed Church whose residence was then in Bergen County State of New Jersey That her said husband the aforesaid George Shepherd died at the

five corners in the County of Bergen (now Hudson County) in the State of New Jersey on the twenty sixth day of March A.D. One thousand Eight Hundred and forty three of Charlotte Dearhea aged at his death Eighty four years One month and twenty one days. That she is now the said George Shepherd's Widow and has ever since remained his widow as will more fully appear by reference to the proof hereto annexed
Catherine Shepherd Her X Mark
Sworn to and subscribed before me the day and year above written. And I certify that the applicant Catherine Shepherd cannot by reason of bodily infirmity and old age attend personally in the open court to make the declaration That she is a respectable and Credible person and that I am not interested in this case or concerned in its prosecution. Given under my hand the day year and place aforesaid
Edmund J Carpenter } Judge
State of New Jersey } County of Hudson } ss
I Robert Gilchrist Clerk of the County of Hudson in the State of New Jersey and Clerk of office of the Orphan's Court certify that Edmund J Carpenter before whom the foregoing affidavit and declaration were made and subscribed was at the time and still is an acting
Judge of the Orphan's Court of said County and State and that his signature thereto is his genuine signature Given June 9th A.D. 1855
under my hand & seal of office by me R Gilchrist Clerk A. Sanderson Clerk

State of New Jersey } County of Bergen } ss On this third day of June A. D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty eight personally appeared before me a Justice of the peace duly sworn, in and for the County of Bergen and State of New Jersey aforesaid Jacob Outwater, a resident of Bergen County State of New Jersey a person whom I certify to be credible and well entitled to belief who on his oath duly administered ac- cording to law says, states and deposes that he is eighty nine years of age on the first day of May last past that he resides now and has resided all his life time in the house in which his fa- ther, John Outwater resided in and du- ring the Revolutionary War that his fa- ther, John Outwater was a duly commis- sioned and acting Captain in the Revo- lutionary War in the first Regiment of New Jersey Militia in Wits-Brigade in the command, part of the time, of said year, of Major or Colonel Dey, that he though but a boy at the time well recollects many of the skirmishes with the enemy and other occurrences, that he frequently for one or two years, about the years A. D. one thou- sand seven hundred and seventy nine and one thousand seven hundred and eighty went to the Quarter Masters de- partment at the Camp of the Ameri- can army at Hackensack distant about four miles from his and his

Fathers residence for the purpose of procuring rations that he did so procure the same frequently and carry the same to his Father and to his Father's comrades that during his knowledge of this war and the respective engagements in the part of New Jersey in which he then resided and now resides he knew many of the prominent officers and privates of the first and second Regiments of New Jersey Militia and he furthermore says and states that in one of said Regiments a company was commanded by Captain Spier and he believes his name was Abraham Spier, that within his company were two men by the name of Shepherd one by the name of George Shepherd the name of the other he does not now distinctly recollect but thinks it was John. He further states that his knowledge of and acquaintance with the said George Shepherd and John Shepherd if the name of the last named one was John, arose from their meeting at the Quarter Masters Department at Hackensack and all receiving rations: he this deponent receiving the same as the messenger of his Father and they receiving the same in their own behalf as private soldiers at divers times within the years A. D. one thousand seven hundred and seventy nine and one thousand seven hundred and eighty making in all he

between one and two years and certainly more than one year.
He learns but does not know that George Shepherd and John Shepherd are deceased, and learns and has reason to believe that the widow of George Shepherd is still alive and resides in Hudson County New Jersey but of the fact of the death of George Shepherd and of the present residence of his widow he has no personal knowledge but derives all he has stated of the last named facts from current reports in his neighbourhood. He further states that he has no interest in this claim nor is he concerned in its prosecution. Jacob Outwater
Sworn to and subscribed before me in my office aforesaid, and I certify that Mr Jacob Outwater the forenamed deponent is too aged and infirm to attend personally in open Court to make this testimony. And I further certify that I am not interested in this case nor concerned in its prosecution.
Henry B Leavitt Justice of the Peace

State of New Jersey } County of Bergen } S S
I Grant H Atkinson Clerk of the County of Bergen in the State of New Jersey and ex officio Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of and for said County and State do certify that Henry B Zabriskie before whom the foregoing affidavit was made and statement subscribed was at the time of taking the same and still is an acting justice of the peace duly qualified and sworn and full faith is due his acts as such and that his signature is genuine
Given under my hand and the seal of said Court this 2nd day of June A D 1858 G. H. Atkinson Clerk

Application of Catherine Shepherd for a pension, W. W. Gilt Agent Jersey City N. Jersey

1859 75 1784
State of New Jersey
County of Hudson § 99
On the nineteenth day of May A D one thousand eight hundred and fifty eight personally appeared before me a justice of the peace in and for Hudson County State of New Jersey Mrs. Margaret V. M. Shepherd aged seventy nine years a resident of Hudson County State of New Jersey a person whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to belief who on her oath duly administered according to her oaths and states that she well knew George Shepherd and now well knows Mrs. Catharine Shepherd that George Shepherd died about fifteen years ago leaving to survive him his Catharine Shepherd that she is still his  his George Shepherd's widow and resides in the Five corners Hudson County New Jersey That when she, this deponent, was quite intimate in the family of George Shepherd it was said, admitted and never questioned that George Shepherd and Catharine Shepherd formerly Catharine Van Rinkle were married reputed to be man and wife and cohabited as such; that their last child, Rachael Shepherd, late Rachael Van Kork was five  years old five years younger than she, this deponent, that she well recollects visiting the house to see the baby, said Rachael Van Kork when she, this deponent was five years old.
The further says that George Shepherd was, as his old acquaintance said, as George Shepherd himself and his brother this de

Deacon's husband John Shepard served in the Revolutionary war on the side of man aid by General George Washington until the close of said war and for a period not less than a year previous
The said services were done and performed in and around the cedar swamp near the old Bellaville road and the second series of Bergen County. Herders says she further says and states that she has no interest in this case and is not concerned in its prosecution.
Margaret to W. Shepherd
Sworn to and subscribed before me this day year and place aforesaid and I certify that the deponent can not by reason of old age and bodily infirmity attend personally in open court to make the evidence or testimony here I further certify that I have no interest in this case and am not concerned in its pro- secutions.
Adolphus M c Marten
Justice of the Peace
in and for Hudson County
State of New Jersey } County of Hudson } S S S
✓ Robert Gilchrist
person certify that Adolphus W Martin before me the above affidavit was made was at the time and still is an acting justice of the peace in and for said County and State and that his signature his thereto is, signature genuine June 9 th 1858. R. L. McChristie clk.

303.326
Bounty Land Claim of Mrs. Catharine Shepherd Widow of George.
Additional evidence. No. 203,326.
Filed by J. C. Dickey, of Washington D. C. Nov. 9 th 1859.

I know all men by these presents That I Benjamin C. Taylor of Bergen in Hudson County New Jersey now am and have been for thirty one years pastor the pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church in said town of Bergen - That I have in my possession the Registers of Baptisms and of Communicants of said Church which extend back to the year sixteen hundred and sixty-four That on searching said Baptism Register I find thereon the record of Birth and Baptism of Catharine Van Winkle a daughter of Jacob Van Winkle and his wife Rachel (Cammegaer) (maiden name) Born on First day of June Seventeen Hundred and Sixty Three and Baptized on the Twelfth day of said month of June in that year.
And further that for more than thirty years past I have known said Catharine as the wife of George Shepherd up to the Twenty Sixth day of March Anno Domini Eighteen Hundred and forty Three on which day said George Shepherd died. And since his death I have known her as his widow. That she still lives and is vigorous in her old age and residing in the City of Hudson (formerly part of Bergen) in Hudson County New Jersey, at the homestead of her son in law Mr John Tice now Post Master in said City. Furthermore I know her to be a Communicant in the aforesaid Church of which I am pastor and that she was known as such communicant before my pastorate began. And that on said Communicants Register of said Church her name appears as received into communion of said Church on the eight-

tenth day of January in the year Eighteen Hundred and ten - almost fifty years ago.
Further I certify that I knew the husband of said Catharine Shepherd for fifteen years or thereabouts before his death. That on the twenty seventh day of March Anno Domini Eighteen Hundred and forty three I officiated as his pastor at his funeral -
Mrs Shepherd had many friends in this community is highly esteemed and in cheerful, vigorous mind and health for one so old and is a very truthful reliable old lady whose memory is sound and she is a wonder unto many among us for her activity.
Given under my hand this Fifth day of November in the Year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and fifty-nine at Bergen in Hudson County and State of New Jersey Benjamin C. Taylor
Sworn and subscribed to before me this Fifth Day of November in the Year of our Lord Eighteen Hundred and fifty-nine. And I hereby certify that I have no interest in any claim for which this affidavit is expected to be used.
Abraham Speer Justice of the Peace in and for said County of Hudson and State of New Jersey
State of New Jersey } ss. Hudson County }
J. Robert Gilchrist - Clerk of Hudson County and Clerk

of the Circuit Court and Court of Common Pleas held in and for said County, do hereby certify that Abraham W. Abraham Esq. Abraham Speer Esq. before whom the within affidavit was taken, is and was at the time of taking the same an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said County, duly Commissioned and qualified, and that his signature thereto is genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of said Courts & County this tenth day of November A. D. 1859.
R. L. Fitch Clerk

J.W. Rev. War Section.
December 13, 1915.
Mr. J. C. Hoffman, P. O. Box 12, Cincinnati, Ohio.
+ Mrs. J. H. Hamblet, 2060 No. Illinois St., Indianapolis, Ind.
Sir:
In response to your personal inquiry of the 8 th instant, you are advised that in the claim R. File No. 9,480, Rev. War, it appears that George Shepherd enlisted in Bergen County, New Jersey, in 1779, as a Private in Captain Abraham Speer's company, New Jersey militia, and served at various times until the close of the war.
He married in Bergen County, New Jersey, August 26, 1782, Catharine (born June 1, 1763) daughter of Jacob Van Winkle and his wife Rachel, whose maiden name was Cammegaer.
Soldier died at Five Corners, Bergen Co. N. J. March 26, 1843. aged Eighty-four years, one month and twenty-one days, and she was allowed bounty land on account of his services, on her application executed August 13, 1859, at which date she was a resident of Hudson County, New Jersey, with her son-in-law, John Tise.
They had several children, the only name stated being that of the eldest, Rachel, who was born about 1784.
Very respectfully,
G. M. Saltzgaber,
Commissioner.

1891 Aug 15 Rev J B Shepard - as to record of Soldier's Service & application of Widow Prior Oct 15 ditto - history Prior
1915 Dec. 13. Hist. to J. C. Hoffman 1915 Dec. 13. " " Mrs. J. H. Hamlet. Ex. 1916 May 1 / dist. to Wm. J. Bishop.
Acts of July 14, 1862, and March 3, 1873.
REJECTED
9480.
P. O.
Catharine Shepard
Service: 1807
Enlisted: See Bounty land , 18
Discharged: act 1855 160 acres , 18
Adm t 91.085 to account
Application filed: _____, 18
Alleges: This case sent to Hon J Thompson Chairman Com t on Pensions Jan'y 28
Re-enlisted: 1860 & afterwar d returned. no pension granted by Congress
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contra
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18
May 1858 Callahan (Van Klief)  at Hudson City age 94 Mar 1852 in Ames  he died March 26 1843

91,085
S 160 acres

2
91,185-
160 Acres

Decisions Against the Claim

Evidence in support of the Claim
New Jersey Oct 1/86.
Rejected by Secretary of the Interior - Feb. 18. 1882

Immaterial papers

V o 8208
Cattawain shepher
MD: of Geo:
N. J.
Secy Intoury Oct 20/59 " " Jan 24/59
D. W. Gitt July 18/58
Same Sept. 18/58
Same Sept. 28/58
Rev. Jacob Workendyke
March 16/59
H. W. Gitt Mch 21/59
J. C. Dickey Aug 31/59
Same Nov. 28/59
Same Dec. 28/59
J. C. Dickey July 31/60
Same Jan. 25/60

New York Sept 22 d 1855
Dr William Wright Dorr Dr Sir
Incls d I send you Rev John Flyns Certificate which you will see if full & complete - I call d this day to get a similar one from Jacob R. Worlandyke but he is absent - I think I will be able to get as good a letter from him as Mr Flyns on his return tomorrow as I am told he knows them - I will make as best in my power to get the balance of what you require and send to you - I have sent instructions from Dr McChesney and Miss Sands to power of Atty to you - Your Note of 50 Dollars is not yet paid. I have call d to see Mr Fletcher at his office as agreed yesterday but he has not been over - I think our Shepherd case is getting so clear that they must allow it, Yours in haste J. W. Foster

Catharine Shepherd widow of George -
Revolutionary Pensions -
Am: Jacob R. Wortendyke of N. J. asks that it be examined the advisability of the recent - and says re the administrative case of his Capt Abraham Spear who estab- lished 2 yrs service etc -
Write Mr H. at his home within a day or so.
G. C. W.
3 Mch 1857.

Hackensack
Bergen Co. N.J.
Sept 22/88
Hon Geo E. Whiting Clerk of Pensions
Sir.
I am informed that Mr Jacob Cutwater Esq - a son of Capt. John Cutwater - being a Judge of this Co. and Thomas Jardelean, both of this Co. are witnesses in proper be- -fore you in the case of the application of the Widow of George Shepherd, for a pen- -sion - Having been for ma- ny years personally acquainted them. I take pleasure in certify- -ing, both as to their respectability and integrity of said witnesses Truly yours & Jno Elyler Rm 4 th Street

Pension Office Jany 10. 1860.
Dear Sir, Send you these papers at the request of Mr. Pennycuick that they may be used in considering the claim of Mr. Shepherd over again before you on appeal. Yours truly G. Woodhams
Wm. J. Thompson Secy of War }

In Senate of the U. States. December 26 th 1861.
Ordered, That the Secretary transmit to the Pension Office the petition and papers of Catherine Shepherd on the files of the Senate.
Attest,
J. W. Forney, Secretary by W. Hickey, chief clerk

Hudson City New Jersey Aug. 12 th . July 12 th 1859.
I hereby appoint J. C. Dickey of Washington D. C. my true and lawful Attorney in fact; and authorize him to prosecute my claim to pension by virtue of the services of my husband - George Sheppard - in the Revolutionary war; and receive the certificate of pension when issued. Hereby revoking all other powers of Attorney.
Witness mark —
Catherine her Sheppard mark
John Sire J. M. Martin

Department of the Interior, Washington, January 20. 1862.
Sir;
I have received your letter of the 17th inst., in reference to the appeal of Richard Burgess, in the case of Catharine Shepherd claiming a pension under the act of July 4th 1836, on account of the Revolutionary services of her husband, George Shepherd.
While I do not think it likely, in view of the uniform current of decisions adverse to the claim, that I should come to a different conclusion; yet I do not feel at liberty to decline to examine any case in which the parties interested have the right of appeal. It will be necessary, therefore, for me to have a report and the papers in the case.
I am Sir,
Very respectfully
Your obedt. Servt.
Caleb B. Smith
Secretary of the Interior
M m Mrs. H. B. Russell 3 Army Pensions 3

Department of the Interior Washington, February 17. 1862.
Sir;
Herewith return you the papers in the case of Catharine Shepherd widow of George Shepherd, deceased, - Act 4th July 1836 - which accompanied you upon the 22 nd ulto, in the appeal of Richard Rugg, her Attorney.
The testimony in this case is but hearsay evidence and altogether too indefinite and unsatisfactory to justify the allowance of a pension. The appeal is, therefore, dismissed and the decision of the Pension Office affirmed.
I am Sir,
Very respectfully
Your obedient
Caleb B. Smith
Secretary of the Interior
Ag n :
Joseph A. Parnell
Commissioner of Pensions

Jersy City Aug 3 1859 J. B. Dickey Esq Dear Sir,
There is a claim for pension so filed in the Pension Department by Mrs. Catharine Shepherd widow of George, a soldier in the Revolutionary War from New Jersey. I have no doubt that claim is a good one according to my information, If you will take the trouble to examine the papers we would be pleased to have you do so, provided it can be done without expense to the party claimant at the outset. My attention was directed to it while in Congress, but I had not the time to see in what particulars the case was informal, if so at all, nor to ascer- tain what further evidence was in existence in reference to it
Yours truly
W. R. Verelst Atty for claimant

Washington 16 th Dec. 1859.
Hon: George C. Whiting Commissioner of Pensions, Sir
I have the honor to request that a reexamination of the claim of Mrs. Catharine Shepherd for pension under the Act of 1836 upon the additional evidence recently filed in the case which has been deemed sufficient to authorize the issue of a land warrant for the services of her husband in the Revolutionary war may be made. I am quite certain a mistaken view has been taken of the testimony filed in that case in so far as has been stated and reiterated that the evidence was altogether traditional or hearsay - the testimony of two of the deponents - Outwater and Solomon - is clearly as to facts which were seen and known personally by them - and which facts are believed to be corroborated by testimony filed in the case of Capt. Spicer and others of his company who have received pensions - the papers in which cases I was not permitted to examine myself, to test the accuracy of the evidence filed in Mrs. Shepherd's case.
As the agent of Mrs. Shepherd I have to request that Mr. Richard Burgess be permitted to examine the papers.
Very respectfully
Your Abt. Sol. L. C. Dickey.

Washington Sept. 5 th 1859.
Hon. Geo. B. Whiting, Commissioner of Pensions; Sir,
I have received your letter of the 31 st ult; in relation to the case of Catharine Shepherd widow of George Shepherd who claims a pension under the Act of 4 th of July 1836, in which no notice seems to have been taken of the testimony of Jacob Outwater who swears positively to the fact of having frequently seen George Shepherd in Camp drawing rations for himself during the years 1779 & 1780. this testimony taken in connection with the evidence of Thomas Goralemon who testifies to the fact of having himself seen and examined the bills of Capt. Speed in whose company Shepherd is stated to have served is so thoroughly corroborative as to leave no doubt upon the mind, of at least, such a term of service as entitles the widow to bounty land, if not to pension; the evidence is positive and conclusive as to at least a service of 14 days. As to the credibility of these

witnesses no attempt has been made to impeach them, and indeed ample testimony in regard to their respectability will be found among the papers, it is then aspecious - if not a not authorized by the evidence violent presumption to say that these witnesses could not remember the facts to which they have sworn. I have therefore most respectfully to ask a reconsideration of the case so far as the bounty land is concerned - and in the event of your determining still to reject the case I shall be compelled in justice to my client to ask an appeal to the Secretary of the Interior and that you cause all the papers in relation to the subject to be laid before him.
I have the honor to be,
Most respectfully,
Your ob't. Svt.
J. C. Dickey.

Washington City March 11
Hon. Geo. C. Whiting
Sir, I made application and filed all the evidence in the case of Hannah Whitehead, widow of Mahlon for a pension under the act of 1858. I filed all the evidence in the case of Catharine Shepherd, widow of Geo., claiming a pension for the services of her husband in the Revolutionary War, under the act of 1836. Both applicants are of New Jersey.
I have some reason to believe that both cases have been taken from my hands; the former by John H. Livingston, and the latter by Mr Wortendyke, and I have at least the right to ask of your office the reason for the action which I suppose has been taken.
The case of Mrs. Shepherd was not allowed while in my hands, for objections, which I conceived it not within my power to remove by additional evidence, and I have no cause to suppose that it will be allowed in the hands of an other, but for the much trouble I have had with it I trust I may be afforded the explanation asked at your convenience.
I am your servant with respect
W. M. Gitt Washington, City

Washington City Sept 15 55 Dear Genl. Collins
In Sir, in answer to your communication of 18th inst I have to state, that unless you reject the evidence of Sarah Calcutt, who in drawing rations for her father, Captain Alexander states that he was on the George Shepherd, who was drawing rations for him. If the evidence in support of the claim of Captain Stephens is more than traditional. Thomas Scallenon states that he saw, and reads therein the roll of Captain Alexander Speer and saw the name of George Shepherd among many others; George Shepherd as a private from 1777 to the close of the war, and a general rule the whole of the evidence must be considered, you must have rejected that of Thomas Scallenon too. You say that Captain Speer could not have had such a roll, as the men were only in the service short periods. A satisfactory answer to this is the evidence of Captain Speer in support of his own claim for a pension under the act of June 7. 1832. and the testimony

James Hornblower, a witness in his case, who establish the facts satisfactory to the Court before a new order taken, and the settlement of which you have charge, that Captain Hornblower served from the commencement to the close of the war," and that fact is more than a careless entry of the clerk than in charge of these papers.
James Hornblower testifies that he himself served from the commencement to the close of the war as a private in Captain Dyer's company. That very many  That very many  dis  dis He serves I beg leave to refer you to the list of prisoners of Bergen County, New Jersey under the act of June 7, 1832.
That a service in the Militia could be of as long duration and as meritorious as any other, we have the various Acts of Congress to wit: Act of June 7, 1832. July 4, 1836. July 7, 1835 And July 29, 1848. That they were we have the long list of prisoners under the various laws of private in the New Jersey Militia in the war of the Revolution.

This aged applicant (now in her 95 th year) and these aged, but very respectable witnesses are now, properly endorsed by the accompanying letters upon which I beg you will again review this case, and if consistent with the rules of your office allow the same.
I enclose the letter, one from Hon. S. R. Morton, and the other from Hon. J. H. Taylor, members of the present Congress and remain yours with respect, William W. Sill.

Washington City March 15 - 1857 Hon Geo C. Whiting
Sir, I feel unwilling that the case of Catherine Shepherd, widow of Geo., shall be placed in the charge of Mr Wortley unless it be in conformity with the rules of your office. The claim of Mrs Shepherd for a pension under the act of 1836., claiming as the widow of a private in the militia of New Jersey, in the war of the Revolution, was not allowed by your office, neither do I suppose it can be from a mere change in the agent, but I desire to be able to report to Mrs Shepherd all the action that your office has taken or shall take in her case and respectfully request you will again address me.
I am yours with respect W. W. Sitt

Jersey City N. J. June 9 th Hon Geo. C. Whiting
Commissions of Pensions. Sir Sir, Enclosed is the ap- plication of Catharine Shepherd, a widow of a revolutionary soldier, which you will please acknow- ledge the receipt of as soon as convenient.
In the possession of Mrs. Shepherd is her family bible but there is no entry in it anterior to the birth of her first children.
The roll of the Captain of her husband Abraham Spier, is not to be found in Trenton, though he, Captain Spier, is on the revolutionary record at that place.
The father of the mother, Outwater appears also on that record as a Captain, so they both were during the war, no doubt.
Reply please to my Address Jersey City N. J. yours W. M. Gitt

Pension Office, January 28. 1860.
Sir,
In compliance with your request of the 26 th inst., I have the honor to transmit herewith the papers filed in this Office in support of the pension claim of Catharine Shepherd under the Act of 7 th July, 1838, as the widow of George, together with my letter of the 4 th inst. to the Hon. Jacob Thompson, Secretary of the Interior, stating the reasons for its disallowance, and a copy of his decision, under date of 20 th inst., upon the appeal taken in the case.
I return herewith the petition of Mrs. Shepherd which accompanied your letter.
Very respectfully, &c Your Obedt. Servant, Noah Voluntary Commissioner.
Hon. J. R. Thomson, } Chairman Committee } on Pensions, } U. S. Senate }

Richard Burgefs 15 Jany 1862
Appeals from the Action of the Pension Office in the case of Mrs Catharine Shep- herd widow of George Shepherd , Claiming a pension under the act of July 4. 1836, for his services in the Revolutionary War-
Respectfully referred to the Commissioner of Pensions for report - Matt Smith Dept. Int. B. Clack Jany 15/62 3
Mr Whiting

Hon. Caleb B. Smith Secretary of the Interior Sir
Washington January 16. 1862,
I have the honor to request a reconsideration of the claim of Catharine Shepherd Widow of George Shepherd a Soldier of the War of the Revolution, for a pension under the Act of 1836. This claim was rejected by the Commissioner of Pensions for reasons deemed unsatisfactory, and an appeal taken to the Hon. Jacob Thompson, then Secretary of the Interior, who confirmed the decision of the Commissioner in so far as the claim for pension was concerned - but admitted her right to bounty land under the Act of 1855 for a period of service less than six months - thus recognizing Shepherd to have been a private of Capt. Abraham Speers Company of New Jersey Militia in the Revolution.
The Widow now submits an additional declaration of the 22 d November 1861 embodying some additional facts, & humbly requesting a reexamination of her application, being confident of the service of her husband for a period which entitles her to a full pension.
Capt. Speer himself received a pension in his life time for full two years service - He & Shepherd were near neighbors at the time, if not residents of the same town - bordering upon the lines of the enemy who then occupied the City of New York.
It is proved by the evidence that the service claimed for,

he has and (not very often went out of his house)" - Is it any wonder then that Capt Speer omitted to state the name of Shepherd as one who could testify to his service, and it may well account for his not having applied for a pension himself. -
The evidence, a synopsis of which accompanies this communication, corroborates in many respects the statements of the affiants in the case of Mrs Shepherd, as to an almost continuous service for a period of three or four years. Several of the parties themselves being members of Capt Speer's Company and received full pensions. -
The service of Capt Speer being thus established, and as he, & Shepherd, resided in the same neighbourhood, if not in the same town, & as the service was principally at Belleville, near which Shepherd lived and as he is admitted to have been a member of Speer's Company - the probability is strong, and the presumption inevitable that he must have been in service with Speer in all, or most, of his tours, for it can hardly be supposed that for each separate tour he raised a new company. and the roll of this company was in all probability the very roll exhibited to Solomon. This testimony too would also, in a great measure, go to corroborate the testimony of Butwater, who swears that he many times in the

was in the immediate Vicinity of the enemies line, principally at Belleville - (whose incursions in foraging and marauding parties in that Neighborhood were almost of daily occurrence, rendering a portion of the Militia of New Jersey to be constantly on active duty, in tours of one or two months, at a time. The Commissioner of Pensions in his letter of the 2 d of November 1859 to the Secretary of the Interior admits, in reference to the testimony of Thomas Jeroloman & others that their evidence might be conclusive as to the facts they state in regard to the duration of the service of Shepherd, if their memory could be relied upon, & their statements consistent with the known character of the Militia service of New Jersey during the War. One of these witnesses, Thomas Jeroloman, whose character for probity and truthfulness is strongly attested by Members of Congress & others, & stands unimpeached, swears, positively, that Capt Speer exhibited to him the Roll of the Men under his Command, on which the name of George Shepherd appeared, and that he served faithfully in his Company from 1779 to the close of the War. Yet the Commissioner alleges that no such Roll could possibly have existed - that Speer was a Capt n of Militia, the term of which service could not exceed two months, & according to Speer's own statement (when he applied for a pension in 1833, he did not himself serve more than five months in any year from 1779 to 1783 & only two months in 1780. - The Commissioner was evidently mistaken as to the duration of the term of service of the New Jersey Militia. - You are respectfully referred to Wilson

New Jersey Laws published at Trenton in 1784 Chap: 236 p o 137 You will there find on the top of the page the title Viz "An Act to raise by Voluntary enlistment, eight hundred and twenty Nine Men for the defence of the frontiers of the State" Passed Dec 26, 1780 (with this Note Viz "The Men raised in consequence of this Act continued in service until January 18, 1782" this statement will be found among the papers in the Case of Joseph Lyon, a pensioner, & signed "L. Condict" who was a Representative in Congress from New Jersey.
The Commissioner further states that as Speer resided in Essex County when he applied for a pension & swore he did not know of any person by whom he could prove his service except certain parties whose affidavits he furnished, & as Shepherd resided at that time and up to 1843 in an adjoining County & is not named as one of the persons who knew any thing of the service of said Speer, and it being also unaccountable why Shepherd did not apply for a pension during his life time, he infers that he could not have served as represented. Now this is explained by the affidavits of John Tice, and the Rev d Benjamin C Taylor Pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church at Bergen dated 10 January 1860 who testify that "George Shepherd for more than fifteen years previous to his death was partially deranged - that he was disqualified by such derangement to attend to his business, and that two Citizens of the aforesaid County were duly appointed to take charge of his property - that he was nearly blind for many years previous to his death

he has and (not very often went out of his house)" - Is it any wonder then that Capt Spear omitted to state the name of Shepherd as one who could testify to his service; and it may well account for his not having applied for a pension himself. -
The evidence, a synopsis of which accompanies this communication, corroborates in many respects the statements of the affiants in the case of Mrs Shepherd, as to an almost continuous service for a period of three or four years. Several of the parties themselves being members of Capt Speer Company and received full pensions. -
The service of Capt Spear being thus established, and as he, & Shepherd, resided in the same neighbourhood, if not in the same town, & as the service was principally at Belleville, near which Shepherd lived and as he is admitted to have been a member of Speer Company - the probability is strong, and the presumption inevitable that he must have been in service with Spear in all, or most, of his tours, for it can hardly be supposed that for each separate tour he raised a new company. and the roll of this company was in all probability the very roll exhibited to Solomon. This testimony too would also, in a great measure, go to corroborate the testimony of Butwater, who swears that he many times in the

Course of two years saw and spoke to Shepherd in the American Camp - and of other affiants whose traditional evidence is filed with her claim.
It may be proper to state that Mrs Shepherd after the rejection of her claim by Mr Secretary Thompson presented a petition to Congress for relief. - but as all the papers & evidence in relation to her claim, particularly those upon which the bounty land was allowed, were not before the Committee - it is respectfully submitted that the adverse report of the Committee of the Senate should not operate injuriously in the case.
Believing that full weight and credit has not been given to the facts and circumstances disclosed by the evidence, whereby the pension of this poor widow of 98 years of age has been withheld - and that the explanations & additional evidence now adduced, & the views here presented may be considered by the Hon. Secretary of the Interior, he is respectfully requested to cause all the papers & evidence connected with the case, including the cases of pensioners referred to in the accompanying synopsis, to be laid before him, and that he will extend to her case the same liberal and enlightened judgment which has characterized his decisions in similar cases.
Very Respectfully
J. O. Seward
R. D. Burgess for the claimant

STATE OF
NEW-JERSEY.
I, THOMAS S. ALLISON, Secretary of State of the State of New Jersey, do hereby certify, that I have examined the Revolutionary records in my office, and do not find therein any evidence of the service of George Shepherd
and I do further certify, that the records of this office being only certificates for balance of pay due, the fact of the name not being found therein, is not conclusive evidence that he was not in the service.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed my seal of office, at Trenton, this Twelfth day of January one thousand eight hundred and fifty-eight.
Secretary of State.

8 Sept 58
State of New Jersey County of Hudson } 58
On this eighth day of September A. D. one thous and eight hundred and fifty eight, be- fore me was a justice of the peace within and for said County of Hudson in the State of New Jersey personally came and appear- ed Mrs Sarah Sise aged seventy six years a resident of Hudson County in the State of New Jersey a person whom I certify to be credible and entitled to belief who on her oath duly administered according to law states that she has resided in this vicinity for more than forty years during all of which time she has been acquainted with Catha- rine Shepherd, the widow of George Shepherd and was acquainted with George Shepherd up to the time of his death, which took place in A D one thousand eight hundred and for- ty three. She states that George Shepherd and Catharine Shepherd lived together as husband and wife, that the fact of their being married was never doubted or questioned in the commu- nity in which they lived by any of their neighbours She further states that George Shepherd was always regarded as a revolutionary soldier and that Catharine Shepherd still is his widow.

She further states that the Revolutionary war was always a subject of interest and conversation in her family, as her father, John P. Vanhouten was a soldier in the said war, and her mother, Hannah Vanhouten who survived him, made an unsuccessful effort, not many years ago, to obtain a pension, and that her papers are still on file in the Pension Office.
And she further states that both her parents are deceased, her father a great many years ago. That George Shepherd was blind but in his last for many years. She further states that she has no interest in this claim, and is not concerned in its prosecution and that she and the said Catherine Shepherd still live in Hudson County New Jersey but one mile apart or less than a mile. Sarah Tice sworn to and subscribed by me before me after the same had been read to Mrs Sarah Tice and I certify that I have no interest in this claim and am not concerned in its prosecution.
The words "before his death" interlined before signing and certifying.
John Tice Justice of the Peace.
John Tice Justice of the Peace

Jersey City N. J. Sept 22 1858
Dear Geo. C. Whiting
Committee of Pensions
Sir - Being informed that an application is made for a pension to the widow of George Shepherd deceased, of this state - and that Jacob Outwater and Thomas Judleman are witnesses to substantiate the claim for said pension, it affords me pleasure to certify to you that said witnesses Outwater and Judleman are old residents of the County of Bergen in this state where I myself lived during the greater part of my life, and that I believe them to be credible witnesses, they having always so far as I know borne the character of truthfulness & veracity
I am also acquainted with some of the relations and family connections of the applicants and such as I know of them are people of respectability
Mrs. Shepherd lives in my district
Your most Servt
J. C. Voorhender Rep. 5th Dist. N.J.

Washington Dec 27. 1859
Sir:
In the suspended application of Catharine Shepherd, widow of George, of N. Jersey, act of 1838 the claimant alleges that her late husband served under Captains Ab m Spier in Col Dey's regt and Major Winds Brigade, and under Capt Jacob John Outwater, in Winds Brigade; the whole being N. Jersey service.
The questions in regard to this service are as to its duration and continuity.
Among the revolutionary records of N. Jersey militia service there are numerous entries tending to show the nature of the service under Capt Spier and Maj Winds, Col Dey, &c; And I think there are rolls of service under Capt Outwater. There are statutes of N. Jersey, and records of the proceedings of its council of safety which may throw light on the questions above mentioned.
I have to request that these rolls and records may be examined with reference to this case.
I am Very respectfully, &c S. G. Dodge
Hon. Geo. C. Whiting, Commr of Pensions.

36 Cong. 3 1 Sess. 3
Report
(adverse), by Mr. Durkee from the Com. on Pensions on the petition of Catharine Shepherd.
1860 May 7, Submitted.

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
MAY 7, 1860.--Ordered to be printed.
Mr. DURKEE submitted the following
REPORT.
The Committee on Pensions, to whom was referred the petition of Catharine Shepherd, widow of George Shepherd, praying for a pension, having had the same under consideration, beg leave to report:
That the petitioner asserts she is the widow of George Shepherd, who served in the revolutionary war, under Captain Abram Speer, for a period of more than six months, and therefore prays a pension for this service.
As no record proof of service is furnished from the rolls, her claim rests entirely upon parol testimony, to-wit: the affidavits of Jacob Outwater, who says that he was frequently at the American camp during the revolution, and often met George Shepherd at that place during the years 1779 and 1780, and that this continued for one or two years; certainly one year. Outwater did not himself serve.
Thomas Jeroleman testifies that he is now seventy-six years of age; that he has seen the rolls of Captain Speer, and upon them was the name of George Shepherd, from 1779 to the close of the war, and was honorably discharged.
It is not probable that any such roll ever existed; for there was no such continuous service of the New Jersey militia; and Captain Speer, in his application for a pension, testifies that he did not himself serve more than five months in any year, from 1779 to 1783, and that his service in 1780 was only two months. The militia service of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and several other States, was for a period of two months only, when called out, and not continuous.
The claim of the petitioner for a pension has frequently been disallowed at the Pension Bureau, and the decision twice affirmed by the Secretary of the Interior, for the reason that six months' service had not been proved.
Your committee therefore recommend that the prayer of the petitioner be denied.

Copy.
Department of the Interior. January 20 th 1860.
Sir,
I have examined the claim of Catharine Shepherd, widow of George Shepherd for pension under Act July 7 th 1838, upon which an appeal has been taken from your decision.
I decided upon this claim adversely in November last, and have now consented to re-examine it solely upon the ground that you had, since that period, received such evidence as induced you to admit the bounty-land case. Upon looking into the testimony and approving the allowance of bounty-land I can discover nothing upon which to base an admission for pension. Giving the highest credit to the assertions of the witnesses, in connection with the well known duration of the term of militia duty in New Jersey, not more than two months' service is established: and this I am disposed to view as a liberal allowance. The claim for pension is therefore rejected, and the bounty-land and pension claims, as well as the papers in the case of Capt. Abraham Frier, are herewith returned to your office.

I am, very respectfully, Your Obedt. Servt., J. Thompson, Secretary.
Hon. Geo. C. Whiting, Commr. of Pensions.

Department of the Interior. November 2 d 1889.
Sir,
I have considered the claim of Catharine Shepherd widow of George Shepherd, for pension under Act of July 7 th 1838, and for bounty land under Act March 3 d 1855 &c, upon which an appeal has been taken from your decision.
It is asserted by the widow in her application, that George Shepherd entered the service of the United States in the militia of New Jersey in 1779, and continued to serve as a private till the close of the Revolutionary war. An attempt is made by several witnesses to substantiate these allegations; but it is evident that they neither knew, nor were in a situation to know, the events they attempt to describe. This testimony is hearsay, and contradicts the well known history of the militia service in New Jersey. I am of opinion, that your decision rejecting these claims, was founded in a correct estimate of the value of the proof, and affirm it accordingly.

The papers which accompanied your report, are herewith returned to your Office.
I am, very respectfully, Your Obedt. Servt. J. Mounfrain Secretary.
Hon. George C. Whiting. Commr of Pensions.

Synopsis of the case of Catharine L. Shepherd.
Secy. of Interior
See U. S. Laws of New Jersey in relation to Military service p. 82 1779, 80 & 81.
558 78/25 1779

Synopsis of the case of Catharine Shepherd widow of George Shepherd a private of Captain Abraham Speers Company of New Jersey militia in the war of the Revolution for pension under the Act of 1836.
The facts in the case are these,
Captain Speer was in service over two years, and served until the close of the war, and received a full pension; as shown by the evidence on file in his case.
He recognized George Shepherd as a private in his Company, and so stated to the witness - for almon and others - and to whom he showed his Company Rolls, upon which the name of the said George Shepherd was borne, which showed that the said Shepherd served from 1779 until the close of the war, and for a period of over two years.
Another witness - Jacob Outwater - testifies that he many times in the course of two years saw and spoke to Shepherd in the American Camp, and relates the circumstances which impressed upon his memory such meeting. These circumstances tend to establish the fact, or at least a strong probability and belief of the fact, that George Shepherd was in actual service for a period of at least two years.
Another witness - the son-in-law of Captain Speer - testifies that in frequent conversations he had with Captain Speer about his services in the Revolution, he told him that the said George Shepherd - with others he names - served in his Company for more than two years, and at places where it is known Captain Speers Company was in service.
There are other affidavits on file in the case of Mrs. Shepherd which show that George Shepherd was regarded in the community where he resided as a soldier in the revolution, and as a member of Captain Speers Company.

The want of record evidence of his service raises no presumption against the claim, as it is well known that no such evidence exists, and the absence of it has not heretofore been regarded as conclusive against the service of other claimants from said State.
It may be pertinently asked, why, and upon what principal does the Commissioner of Pensions accept a part and not the whole evidence - the testimony explicitly states a service of two years - why reject all but fourteen days - why curtail it at all - if the witnesses are entitled to credit at all, they are equally entitled to credit for all; all or none should have been received, and it seems to be an arbitrary rule or exercise of power which would so construe it.
The above facts in relation to the services of George Shepherd in the Revolutionary war taken in connection with the fact that the evidence filed in support of the claim is corroborated by the papers on file in the case of Captain Speer, and others, who have applied for, and obtained pensions; and the fact that it accords with the general history, and the laws of New Jersey of that time in relation to militia service; the fact that the Bills of Captain John Antwater - father of the aforesaid Jacob - who served in that part of New Jersey where the said Shepherd served, show a service of at least eight or nine months in the year 1781; and also the fact that George Shepherd served on the enemys lines - in the vicinity of New York City, the enemys head-quarters - where it was necessary to be in active service, most, if not all of the time;

is evidence which would be deemed sufficient in any court of law to establish the fact that George Shepherd served at least two years , and justify the allowance of the claim for a full pension as in the case of his captain.
The evidence of Captain Speers claim testify that during the war "frequently out every other month at New-Ark and Elizabeth Port Point" - also the general service was in service from commencement to close of the war, more than two years. - Hornblower testifies that he was in Speers Company and Speer was out during the whole war, and in consequence of being directly on the lines of the enemy was on duty the greater part of the time.
Isaac Pier - pensioned - The evidence shows an almost continuous service - being minute men in the immediate neighborhood of the enemy - Joined Captain Abraham Speers Company which kept guard at Camp dock and neck gate in December 1779 - Again joined Capt. Abraham Speers Company in January 1780 - Josiah Gould testifies that in January 1781 did one month's duty with Isaac Pier at Bellville under Capt. A. Speer.
Isaac Gould - pensioned - In his declaration he frequently refers to service with Capt. Abraham Speers Company and testifies to an almost continuous service on the lines of the enemy - for more than two years - Harrison Vansifer testifies that in 1778 in April he performed one month's duty in Captain Abraham Speers Company at Bellville, in 1781 performed one month's duty with Gould at Bellville in Capt. A. Speers Company - In November did one month's duty with Gould at Acquackhonk in Capt. A. Speers Company.
Evidence of 12 months enlistment in Joseph Lyons case. Abraham P. King testifies that he served under

Capt. A. Speer (the dates not recollected) that he served under him from this time during the whole war on monthly duty on guard principally on the lines of Bellville - and is sure that he served as much as two years of actual duty.
Capt. Abraham Speer testifies in this case that King in September 1778 volunteered in the militia of New Jersey in the service in the Company commanded by him and performed monthly duty every other month in said service as a private from the time he entered that service, at least, his whole service must have amounted to two years or thereabouts, and he continued in the said Company until the close of the war - the same facts are proved by several other witnesses.
Examined
Abraham Speer papers ✓ George Ryerson do ✓ Samuel Perry do ✓ Isaac Dier do ✓ Josiah Gould do ✓ Henry Osborn do ✓ Joseph Lyon do ✓ Abraham H. King do ✓
Sarah Tise testifies - she was acquainted with George Shepherd up to the time of his death 1843 - that he was blind for many years before his death -

Synopsis of the case of - Catharine Shepherd widow of George Shepherd a private of Captain Abraham Spier's Company of New Jersey Militia in the war of the Revolution for pension under the act of 1836.
The facts in the case are these.
Captain Spier was in service over two years, and served until the close of the war, and received a full pension; as shown by the evidence on file in his case.
He recognized George Shepherd as a private in his Company, and so stated to the witness - Foreman and others - and to whom he showed his Company Rolls, upon which the name of the said George Shepherd was borne; which showed that the said Shepherd served from 1779 until the close of the war, and for a period of over two years .
Another witness - Jacob Antwater - testifies that he many times in the course of two years saw and spoke to Shepherd in the American Camp, and relates the circumstances which impressed upon his memory such meeting. These circumstances tend to establish the fact , or at least a strong probability and belief of the fact, that George Shepherd was in actual service for a period of at least two years .
Another witness - the son-in-law of Capt. Spier - testifies that in frequent conversations he had with Captain Spier about his services in the Revolution, he told him that the said George Shepherd - with

others he names - served in his company for more than two years , and at places where it is known Captain Spiers Company was in service.
• There are other affidavits on file in the case of Mrs. Shepherd which show that George Shepherd was regarded in the community where he resided as a soldier in the revolution, and as a member of Captain Spiers Company.
The want of record evidence of his service raises no presumption against the Claim, as it is well known that no such evidence exists, and the absence of it has not heretofore been regarded as conclusive against the service of other Claimants from said State.
It may be pertinently asked, why, and upon what principle does the Commissioner of Pensions accept a part and not the whole evidence - the testimony explicitly states a service of two years - why reject all but fourteen days - why curtail it at all - if the witnesses are entitled to credit at all - they are equally entitled to credit for all: all or none should have been received, and it seems to be an arbitrary rule or exercise of power which would so construe it.
The above facts in relation to the services of George Shepherd in the Revolutionary war taken in connection with the fact that the evidence filed in support of the Claim is corroborated by the papers on file in the case of Captain Spier, and others who have applied for, and obtained pensions; and

the fact that it accords with the general history, and the laws of New Jersey of that time in relation to militia service: the fact that the rolls of Captain John Outwater - father of the aforesaid Jacob - who served in that part of New Jersey where the said Shepherd served, show a service of at least eight or nine months in the year 1781 ; and also the fact that George Shepherd served on the enemys lines - in the vicinity of New York City, the enemys head-quarters - where it was necessary to be in active service most, if not all of the time ; is evidence which would be deemed sufficient in any Court of law to establish the fact that George Shepherd served at least two years, and justify the allowance of the Claim for a full pension, as in the case of his Captain.

15 Aug 59
State of New Jersey } ss. Essex County }
On this Sixteenth day of August A.D. 1857 personally appeared before me a Justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid. Mrs. Gertrude Foreman aged 81 years, a resident of the aforesaid county, a person to me well known to be a credible person and entitled to belief, who on her oath duly administered according to law declares that she is the daughter of Captain Abraham Speer who served in the Revolutionary war of the New Jersey line; that her said father Abraham Speer died in the county aforesaid about the year A.D. 1834; and that he received a pension a short time previous to his death.
She further states that she does not now recollect of seeing the roll of the men under her father's command in the aforesaid war; but that she believes that he had one from the fact that soldiers of the Revolution would come to see her father to get his assistance in obtaining a pension; that her father's papers were destroyed frequently when they were considered useless; and, that she believes that if her father had a roll it was destroyed with other papers, as aforesaid.
She further states that she has no interest in this claim. Gertrude Foreman
Sworn and Subscribed before me the subscriber one of the Justices of the Peace of Essex County Resident at Belleville the Sixteenth day of August A.D. 1857
Theodore Sandford Justice of the Peace
Essex County ss
I the aforesaid Justice do hereby certify that I have no interest in the aforesaid claim. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal the Sixteenth day of August A.D. 1857 Theodore Sandford Justice of the Peace

State of New Jersey Essex County
ss. I James J. Terheune Clerk of the County of Essex and also of the Court of Common Pleas, (being a Court of Record) in and for said County do certify that Theodore Sandafine before whom the foregoing Affidavit was taken, at the date thereof was an acting Justice of the Peace for and residing in said County Commissioned and sworn and duly authorized to administer oaths & to do & perform the duties appertaining to the office of Justice of the Peace, that I am acquainted with his hand writing and know that the signature to the jurat of said Affidavit is genuine and that his official acts are entitled to credit.
In Witness Whereof I have hereto set my hand and affixed my official Seal the Seventeenth day of August A.D. 1859.
James J. Terheune, Clerk

To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States in Congress Assembled.
The petition of Catharine Shepherd, widow of George Shepherd, respectfully represents; that her husband the said George Shepherd served in the war of the Revolution as a private of Captain Abraham Speers Company in the State of New Jersey for a period of more than two years, as appears from the evidence filed in the Pension Office with her application for a pension under the act of 1836 - that for want of record evidence her application has been rejected - that the parole evidence clearly establishes the fact of his service, and in consequence of the said rejection of her claim she is compelled to apply to your Honorable bodies for relief, and she humbly prays that all the papers and evidence in her case on the files of the pension office may be called for and laid before you in order that an act for her relief may be passed granting her the pension which she believes she is justly entitled to, in pursuance of the pension laws in such cases made and provided, and as in duty bound she humbly prays &c.
Catharine Shepherd Widow of George Shepherd. by J. C. Dickey her Attorney.
January 2 nd 1860.

Claim of Mrs. Catharine Shepherd - widow of George - for pension under the act of 1836.
Revolutionary war.
Additional evidence
J. C. Dickey, Attorney Present.

State of New Jersey } ss. Hudson County
On this Sixteenth day of January A. D. 1860, personally appeared before me a justice of the Peace, in and for the County aforesaid John Tise ~~~~~ aged 58. years, a resident of said County; a person to me well known to be a credible person, and entitled to belief; who on his oath duly administered according to law, declares that he was well acquainted with George Shepherd who died in Hudson County aforesaid, in the year A. D. 1843, who was the husband of Mrs. Catharine Shepherd, aged about ninety six years, and who is now an applicant for a pension.
He further states that the aforesaid George Shepherd at the time of his death was aged about eighty four years; and, that for  more than fifteen years  previous to his death the said Shepherd was partially deranged; that he was disqualified by such derangement to attend to his business; and, that two citizens of the aforesaid County were duly appointed to take charge of his property; that he was nearly blind for many years previous to his death, and not very often went out of his house.
John Lise
Postmaster of Hudson City the County of Hudson N.J. Therein and subscribed to this Sixteenth day of January Eighteen hundred and Sixty before me Adolphus H. Marlow, Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Hudson N.J.

State of New-Jersey } ss. Hudson County }
On this Sixteenth day of January A.D. 1860 personally appeared before me, a justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid, Rev: Benjamin C. Taylor who is aged truly eighty eight years, a resident of said County, a person to me well known to be a credible person, and entitled to belief, who on his oath duly administered according to law, declares that he was well acquainted with George Shepherd on March in the month of March who died in Hudson County aforesaid, in the year A.D. 1843, and who was the husband of Mrs. Catherine Shepherd now aged about ninety six years, and who is now an applicant for a pension.
He further states that the aforesaid George Shepherd at the time of his death was aged about eighty four years; and, that for more than fifteen years  prerious to his death the said Shepherd was partially deranged ; that he was disqualified by such derangement to attend to his business; and, that therefore two citizens of the aforesaid County were duly appointed to take charge of his property; that he was nearly blind for many years prerious to his death, and not very often went out of his house.
Benjamin C. Taylor
Pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church at Bergen in the County and State aforesaid
Sworn and subscribed to this Sixteenth day of January 1860 before me Adolphus W. Martine Justice of the Peace in and for Hudson County N.J.

State of New Jersey } Hudson County ss }
I Robert Gilchrist Clerk of Hudson County aforesaid do certify that Adol- phus W. Marten whose name is subscribed to the foregoing Affidavits was at the time of taking the same and now is a Justice of the Peace in and for said County duly commissioned and qualified and authorized to take the same
And further that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of said Justice, and verily believe that the signa- ture purporting to be his, to the said affidavits, is genuine
Witness my hand and the seal of said County this 17 th day of January 1860
Robert Gilchrist Clerk

This Indenture made the fifth Day of June Anno- mune One thousand seven hundred and Ninety in the fourteenth year of America an Independence between George Shepherd and Catharine his wife of the town & County of Bergen in the State of New Jersey of the one part and Cornelius Deramus Rotterdam in the County & State aforesaid of the other part, Witnesseth that the said George Shepherd and Catharine his wife for & in consideration of the sum of Fifty pounds lawful money of the State of New York to them in hand paid by the said Cornelius Deramus at or before the sealing or delivery of these presents the receipt whereof they do hereby acknowledge and themselves to be therewith full- ly satisfied and said have granted bargained sold released and confirmed and by these presents do freely and absolutely grant bargain sell release and confirm unto the said Cornelius Deramus and to his heirs and assigns forever All that messuage or lot of land being and lying in the corporation of Bergen in the Patent of Scarsdale near the marsh land Brook & Beginning at a stake standing in the Bergen line being the north East Corner of a lot of land belonging to Garret Hoppe and from thence running along the Bergen line North thirty five degrees East three chains and ten links to a stake thence North fifty eight degrees west ten chains & forty five links to a stake standing in the road thence south seventy four degrees west along said road three chains and ten links at right angles across to a stake also standing in said road and from thence south fifty eight degrees East to the place of beginning Containing

Three acres being bounded North on Sackett east the Bergen line south on Garret Plopp and west on the Road that leads from Bergen to the English Neighborhood Together with all and singular the pasture roads tim- ber waters profits privileges advantages emoluments Hereditaments and appurtenances whatsoever to the same belonging or in any wise appertaining and the reversion and reversions remainders & remainders rents issues and profits thereof and of any part and parcel thereof and all the estate right title interest property possession Classie and seisin whatever either in law or equity of them the said George Shepherd and Catherine his wife of in and to the above granted premises and of in & to any part and parcel thereof to have and to hold the said hereby granted premises and any part and parcel thereof with the appurtenances unto the said Cornelius Dircksen his heirs and assigns to and for the only proper use benefit & behoof of them the said Cornelius Dircksen his heirs and assigns forever according to the true intent and meaning of these presents and the said George Shepherd and Catherine his wife for themselves their heirs Executors and administrators and every of them do by these presents Covenant and agree to and with the said Cornelius Dircksen his heirs and assigns That the said hereby granted premises now are and forever hereafter shall be remain and continue in the peaceable and quiet poss- ession of him the said Cornelius Dircksen his heirs and assigns free and Clear and truly & Clearly against and discharged of and from all manner of encumbrances whatsoever and lastly he the said George Shepherd and Catherine his wife for themselves their heirs executors and administrators do hereby further covenant and

agree to and with the said Cornelius Derenus his heirs Executives administrators and assigns that they the said George Shepherd and Catherine his wife and their heirs Executives and administrators the said hereby granted premises and any part thereof with the appurtenances into him the said Cornelius Derenus his heirs and assigns shall and well warrant and indemnify and forever by these presents forever defend against the claims and demands of all and any person and persons whatever In witness Whereof they the said George Shepherd and Catherine his wife have hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year above written
Signed Sealed & delivered in the presence of Michael Demott Joseph Van Winkle
George Shepherd (L) Catherine X Shepherd (L.S) mark
Virginia County
State of Virginia be it remembered that on the sixteenth day of June One thousand seven hundred and sixty six personally appeared before me Daniel Van Rayne one of the judges of the Court of Common Pleas for said County Joseph Van Winkle one of the subscribing witnesses to the within written Indenture or deed of convey- ance and made oath that he saw the within named George Shepherd & Catherine his wife sign and deliver the within written Indenture as their voluntary act and deed and that Michael Demott the other witness to the said Indenture was present at the same time and that he also signed the same as a witness I having perused the said Indenture and finding no

matrimonial intentions now Rosemarie allow the same to be recorded Received and recorded the 10 th day of March 1802 J. Wade Clerk
State of New Jersey Bergen County ss I. J. Garnet G. Ack- erson clerk of the Circuit Court and Court of Common Pleas and clerk of the County of Bergen do certify the for- -going to be a true and correct copy of a deed from George Stephens and Cath- -arine his wife to Cornelius Doremus and recorded in Liber O of Deeds page 135. 136. 137 + 138
Witness my hand and seal of said County and Court this Twentieth of September A.D. 1858 G. G. Ackerson clerk
Here showing that one George and Cath- arine his wife and husband and wife in 1790.

1859 76 1783. 13 Aug 58
State of New Jersey } County of Essex } S S S
On this Thirtieth day of August A. D. 1858 personally appeared before me John W. Dorn a commission of clerk in and for the County of Essex and State of New Jersey. Thomas Loraleman, aged seventy five years, a resident of Essex County in the State of New Jersey, a person whom I certify to be respectable and entitled to belief, who on his oath duly administered according to law deposes says and states, that he has resided in the County of Essex in the State of New Jersey for seventy five years that he is the son of Captain Henry Loraleman, who was a captain in the first or second Regiment of New Jersey Militia in the Revolutionary War, that he died at Belleville Essex County New Jersey some time in the year A. D. 1831, and that his wife, this deponent's mother died before him, and that neither ever drew a pension. He further states that he was well acquainted with Captain Abraham Spear, sometimes spelled Spier who was of Essex County New Jersey, and who was a Captain in Windes Brigade of the first or second Regiment of New Jersey Militia that his brother James H. Loraleman was married to a daughter of Captain Abraham Spear, or Spier and that Abraham Spear or Spier drew a pension before his death and that as his widow survived him, she drew one afterwards until her death. Captain Abraham Spear, or Spier died about twenty four years ago in Essex County New Jersey and his wife shortly afterwards as this deponent states. He further states that as his father was a Captain and as his brother had married Captain Spear or Spier's daughter, they were all much of their time together, and very frequently had long and familiar conversations about the Revolutionary War, and about the men composing the Companies of his, this depo-

neath his father, and of the company of Captain Abraham Speer or Spicer and of their bravery and hardship, and the length of their service. He further states that he has seen the roll of his father's men, and has also been shown by Captain Abraham Speer or Spicer the roll of his men and recollects the names of such only as he then was personally acquainted with. He further states that among the names on the roll of Captain Abraham Speer, or Spicer were George Shepherd, a blacksmith of Bergen County, and John Shepherd his brother, and that the said George Shepherd was shown him as having served faithfully from the year A. D.; one thousand seven hundred and seven- ty nine until the close of the war, and was honora- bly discharged and paid off, and that John Shepherd had faithfully served two years. He further states that he heard Captain Abraham Speer, or Spicer say that the Shepherds and more of his men as well as some of the men commanded by Captain Kidney and his, this deponent's father's men who had served faithfully were entitled to a pension. He further states that he was well acquainted with George Shep- herd up to the time of his death which took place in Bergen near Hudson County New Jersey about fifteen years ago and that the widow, Catharine Shepherd of George Shepherd who was a private in Captain Abraham Speer or Spicer's company as before testified still lives in Hudson County New Jersey. He further states that he attended the fourth of July cele- brations once or twice with many surviving officers and privates of the Revolutionary War and recollects once to have seen George Shepherd the aforesaid person pres- ent and he was there regarded by all as a private soldier of Captain Abraham Speer, or Spicer's company

ny of New Jersey militia. He further states that he heard George Shepherd say that he had gone to New York to apply for a pension but that the office there gave him no satisfaction and he afterwards became afflicted with sore eyes which continued to get worse until he became almost or altogether blind before his death. He further states that although he this deponent and George Shepherd lived in different counties they lived but a short distance apart, a distance of about six or seven miles. Said George Shepherd lived on the road or near it leading then from the residence of this deponent to the city of New York and that he frequently went to the city of New York. And this deponent further states that he is not interested in the result of this case, nor concerned in its prosecution. He further states that among the names on the said roll with the said Shepherd were John Spear, Daniel Luers, John Lake and Peter Vanrinkle.
Thomas Goralmon
The foregoing affidavit and testimony was duly sworn to and subscribed before me after the same had been read to the deponent, Thomas Goralmon, who complains of bodily infirmity and old age, by reason of which he states he is unable, without uneasiness and pain to attend and testify in open Court. I certify that I have no interest in the result of the same and am not concerned in its prosecution. Sworn to and subscribed before me this 30th day of August A D 1858 at my office in Belleville
John M. Dow Commissioner of Courts for Essex County N.J.

State of New Jersey County of Essex
{ 55
I James J. Terhune Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for said County being sworn to a court of record hereby certify that John W. Dow whose signature is attached and signed to the foregoing affidavit was at the time of doing so and still is an acting Commissioner of said court and that his signature thereto is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of the court this thirty first day of August in the year A.D. 1858.
James J. Terhune Atty.
John W. Dow Atty. Plaintiff
to the above copy and the within copy
for the said

Add l Evidence in the Case of Catharine Shepherd Widow of George Shepherd for Pension under Act 4 July 1830
Deposition of Thos Scribner
Advocate
C.D.
J.C. Dickey Aug. 25-1839

15 Aug 59
City, County, and State } ss. of New York
On this 15 th day of August A.D. 1859, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace, in and for  the county aforesaid Thomas Carlemon aged 76 years, a resident of the aforesaid county, a person to me well known to be a credible person and entitled to belief, who on his oath duly administered according to law declares that he is the identical person who made an affidavit - about the 13 th day of August A.D. 1858, in Essex County New Jersey - in relation to the pension claim of Mrs. Catharine Shepherd - widow of George Shepherd - who died then, and now resides in Hudson County New Jersey; and that, when himself and others were on a visit at the house of Captain Abraham Speer - as mentioned in his affidavit as aforesaid - about the year A.D. 1805 or 6, a conversation took place as to the service of the aforesaid George Shepherd in the Revolutionary war; and, that the said Captain Speer to demonstrate to the company present that the said Shepherd did serve as a soldier in the aforesaid war in his company - Captain Speer - produced the roll of the men under his command in the aforesaid war; and, that the said roll showed that the aforesaid George Shepherd served faithfully in his the said Speer's Company from the year 1779 to the close of the said war, and was honorably discharged.
He further states that he had frequent conversations with the aforesaid George Shepherd - in his lifetime - about the aforesaid war; and, that the said Shepherd told him - this deponent - that he - Shepherd - served over two years in the aforesaid war, as aforesaid; and, that he had endured many hardships, as aforesaid.
He further states that he does not know whatever became

of the aforesaid roll of Captain Speers men, as aforesaid; and, further, that he has no interest in this claim,
He further states that the roll of his father's men - Capt. Henry Jarolemon who commanded a company in the aforesaid war - was retained in his father's house until lost or destroyed, and which he believes is the last with reference to the roll of the aforesaid Captain Abraham Speer.
I affirm to before me this 3 rd Thomas Jarolemon 15 th day of August 1889
Robert Reid Comr of Deeds

State of New-York, City and County of New-York, § 88.
I, JOHN CLANCY, CLERK of the City and County of New York, and also Clerk of the Supreme Court for said City and County, being a Court of Record, DO HEREBY CERTIFY,
That
Robert Reid
whose name is subscribed to the certificate of the proof or acknowledgment of the annexed instrument, and thereon written, was, at the time of taking such proof or acknowledgment, a Commissioner of Deeds for said City and County, dwelling in the said City, commissioned and sworn, and duly authorized to take the same. And further, that I am well acquainted with the hand-writing of such Commissioner, and verily believe that the signature to the said certificate of proof or acknowledgment is genuine.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of the said Court and County, the
17
day of
Aug
185
9
John Clancy
Clerk.

Additional declaration of Catharine Shepherd Widow of George Shepherd for Pension 22 November 1861

22 Nov. 1861
State of New Jersey } ss. Hudson County. }
On this Twenty second day of November A.D. 1861, personally appeared before me, a Justice of the Peace within and for the County aforesaid, Mrs. Catharine Shepherd, a resident of Hudson City in the County aforesaid, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is ninety eight (98) years of age, and that she is the identical person who applied for a pension on account of the services of her deceased husband, George Shepherd, who served in a Company of New Jersey Militia, commanded by Captain Abraham Speer in the Revolutionary War.
She further states that she has often heard her said husband speak of his services in the Revolutionary War; of his service in building breast-works and performing other service as a soldier in said War; that she saw the first English Ship of war that entered the Harbor of New York, during said War; that she resided during a great part of said War near where she now resides (within two or three miles of New York City) and until her father (who was the proprietor of a public house, the headquarters of English officers) was obliged to move his family outside the enemy's lines, on account of the information he (her father) communicated to General Washington in relation to the movements of the enemy; that she was the bearer of a

communication to the citizens of Belleville (about six miles distant from where she resided in said war) which prevented them from being surprised and killed by the enemy, who (the enemy) made their appearance at Belleville a few hours after she arrived there. that she saw the British officer (with whom she was acquainted) who commanded the British soldiers who surprised and killed many of the American soldiers who were encamped in a barn at Tappan New York, on the morning after said surprise, and rebuked him for his conduct on that occasion; that her said husband served during said war on the enemys lines near New York City, and that in view of this fact, and the fact that the enemy were frequently marching into and beyond the lines committing murders &c, she is confident her said husband performed at least two years service in said war.
She further states that the mind of her said husband and that he was almost alienated was so much effected for a period of about fifteen years before his death, that he was unable to attend to his business; that he lost nearly all his property on account of his mind being so effected, and that she believes he would have applied for a pension during his lifetime had he been of sound mind.
And she further states that she received land warrant No.                      for 160 acres, on account of the

services of her said husband in said war.
She hereby most respectfully requests the Commissioner of Pensions to reexamine her application, and cause a full pension to be granted to her.
Mr. J. C. Dickey of New York City (or his substitute) is hereby authorized to prosecute this my claim, and receive the Certificate of pension when issued.
Witness mark A. W. Martin
Catherine her X Shepherd mark
Sworn and subscribed to before me on the day and year first above written, after being read and explained to the said Mrs. Shepherd, and I certify that I have no interest in this claim.
The words "and that he was almost blind" interlined before signing.
A. W. Martin Justice of the Peace in and for Hudson County N.Y.
State of New Jersey Hudson County ss I Robert Gilchrist Clerk of Hudson County and Clerk of the Circuit Court and Court of Common Pleas held in and for said County do hereby certify that A. W. Martin whose name is signed to the foregoing certificate was

at the time of signing the same and now is a justice of the Peace in and for said county duly commissioned and sworn. And further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said justice and verily believe the foregoing signature to be genuine
In Witness Whereof I have hereunto set the seal of said Courts and County and caused these presents to be signed by my lawful deputy this twenty second day of November Eighteen Hundred & Sixty One
Andrew Mearns  deputy

Hon. George L. Whiting.

Washington August 25 th 1839.
Hon. Geo. C. Whiting, Commissioner of Pensions, Sir,
Enclosed herewith I transmit the depositions of Thomas Foralemon and Gertrude Foralemon - the latter a daughter of Captain Abraham Speer - being additional evidence in relation to the claim of Catharine Shepherd widow of George Shepherd whose application for a pension under the Act of 1836 or 1838 is now pending in your office and which has been suspended because the service of the claimants husband in the war of the Rev- olution has not been established according to the rules of the pension office.
In regard to the evidence on file with the papers in the case I beg leave to call your attention to the testimony of Jacob Ontwater who alleges that for one or two years he was frequently in the camp of the American Army for the purpose of drawing rations for his father who com- manded a company in the Revolutionary Army and for the men under his com- mand. and that he was well acquainted

with George Shepherd the husband of the present claimant - and often met him at the same place at various times during the years 1779 and 1780 when he also was receiving rations for himself and this continued between one and two years, and certainly more than one year. This witness's recollection of the facts set forth in his deposition seem to be clear and distinct and his character for truthfulness and uprightness stand unimpeached and is verified by several persons of high character as shown by their statements on file.
Mr. Outwater states that although a boy at the time, his recollection of the incidents he relates is perfect, and although perhaps, Sir, you may not have arrived at that age when the memory fails respecting transactions of a few years back - yet reverts with vivid force to scenes and impressions of early youth, those who have reached old age experience the fact that transactions and impressions of their youth revive, and become more clearly impressed upon the memory, when those of more recent date pass away and are forgotten - this is a philosophical truth - and is experienced almost universally as age advances; hence the

testimony of this very old witness becomes entitled to the most favorable consideration for what could more strongly impress the mind of a boy, never to be forgotten, than such skirmishes with the enemy and other occurrences which he relates.
It will be observed too that his evidence is not traditional - but relates to incidents and facts within his own knowledge, and of which he was an eye witness. In view of these considerations his testimony should be received as of great weight.
✓ The next witness, and a most important one is Thomas Foralemon who testifies that he was well acquainted with Captain Abraham Speer who served in the first or second regiment of New-Jersey militia who died about twenty four years ago and drew a pension in his lifetime and also his widow after his death - and after giving in detail the circumstances under which he derived a knowledge of the facts he testifies to - says that in frequent and long conversations he held with Captain Speer respecting the events of the revolutionary war, and about the men composing the company commanded by the said Captain Speer and of

their bravery and hardships and the length of their service, he was shown by Captain Speer, the roll of his men , and recollects the names of such only as he was then personally acquainted with, and among several others whose names he mentions was that of George Shepherd the husband of the widow now claiming, and he was shown to him as having served faithfully from the year 1779 until the close of the war; that he was honorably discharged and paid off; and he heard Captain Speer say that Shepherd and more of his men were entitled to pensions; he attended a 4 th of July celebration once or twice with many surviving officers and privates of the revolutionary war and he well recollects to have seen the said George Shepherd there, and he was regarded by all there as a soldier of Captain Speer's company.
This witness in a subsequent deposition now enclosed, declares that himself and several others were on a visit at the house of Captain Speer about the year 1815 or 6 when a conversation took place as to the service of George Shepherd, and to demonstrate the truth of his assertion then produced the roll of the men under his command which showed that he did serve in his

company from the year 1779 to the close of the war, and was honorably discharged - and he further states that he had frequent conversations with the said George Shepherd in his lifetime and he told him he served over two years - the witness further states that he does not know what became of the rolls of Captain Speers Company - that the rolls of his own fathers company - Captain Henry Foreleman - were retained in his fathers house until lost or destroyed, and which he believes is the fact with reference to the rolls of Captain Speer.
In connection with this subject - of the loss of the rolls, the deposition of Gertrude Foreleman herewith enclosed states that she does not now recollect of seeing the rolls of the men under her fathers command, but she believes he had one from the fact that old soldiers of the Revolution would come to get her fathers assistance in obtaining pensions; that her fathers papers were destroyed when they were thought to be useless, and she believes that if her father had a roll it was destroyed with his other papers.
You will perceive, Sir, that the testimony of M c V. Foreleman is something more than mere traditional, hear say evidence - he testifies to

facts within his own knowledge, and of things that he saw with his own eyes, He saw the rolls himself which contained the name of George Shepherd among others whose names he recollects. This is the best evidence the case admits of.
If the testimony of this witness is to be believed, and there seems to be no reason to doubt the truth of his statement - his character for veracity and truth, being fully sustained by the evidence on your files with Mrs. Shepherd's papers - it really seems to me to establish a service beyond controversy, of at least two years. The production of the rolls in question would certainly be the best evidence - but as they have been lost or destroyed, as stated by the witnesses, the testimony of the witness who saw them when shown to him by Captain Speed himself, is now the best evidence the nature of the case admits of, and is such as would be received in a court of law.
The testimony goes directly to the period and term of service, and unless the character of the witness is impeached, I do not see upon what ground the widows claim to a pension can be denied.
Mary T. W. Shepherd, the sister in law of George Shepherd for whose services in the war of the revolution, the claim of his widow for a

pension is now pending - testifies that she was quite intimate in the family of Shepherd and that he was, as his old acquaintance said - as he himself and his brother the deponents husband, said, a soldier in the war, until the close of said war and for a period not less than a year previous thereto.
George Newkirk an other witness testifies that Shepherd, with whose family he was well acquainted was regarded in the community in which he lived and died, a soldier in the Army of the Revolution and as such served faithfully; and at the celebrations of the 16 th of July, which were not very common in his vicinity, the said George Shepherd being present with others he names, were regarded as soldiers &c -
There are other witnesses who testify to the traditional belief that George Shepherd was a revolutionary soldier, which I do not deem necessary to recapitulate; but will merely remark, that all the evidence in this case which comes under the denomination of tradition - or hear say goes so directly to the point of service and identity, and is so corroborative of the parol evidence, as to leave upon the mind a firm conviction of its truth and the merit of the claim in question -
In regard to the other points relating to the marriage of the parties and the death of the husband no objection has been made - the

proof of which being satisfactory is admitted.
In conclusion I would most earnestly and respectfully request a reexamination of the former evidence in support of this very old lady's claim, in connection with the additional depositions enclosed in this communication, and of such papers and documents under your control, referring to the evidence produced and filed with the application of Captain Speed for a pension, and others of his company who have heretofore applied and been allowed pensions, for such additional facts and evidence as will serve to elucidate the claim of Mrs. Shepherd.
I have the honor to be,
very respectfully,
your obt. Servt.
J. C. Dickey.

Bounty Land Claim of Mrs. Catharine Shepherd, widow of George Act of 1855.
Additional evidence No. 203,326
J. C. Dickey Attorney Present.

State of New-Jersey } 88. Bergen County }
On this 28 th day of November A.D. 1859. personally appeared before me a justice of the Peace in and for the County aforesaid Jacob Outwater, aged ninety -90- years, a resident of said County, a person to me well known to be a credible person, and entitled to belief ; who on his oath duly administered according to law declares that he is the identical person who made an affidavit in - or about - the month of June A.D. 1858 in relation to the services of George Shepherd, who served in Captain Spiers Company, of New-Jersey Militia, in the Revolutionary war; that his father John Outwater - was a duly Commissioned Captain in service in said war; that he - Jacob Outwater - now lives on the farm on which he and his father's family lived during a great part of said war; that he recollects many of the prominent Officers of the first and second Regiments of New- Jersey Militia when in service in said war; also many skirmishes with the enemy and other occurrences that took place in the war.
He further states to have been in service in said war that he well recollects two men by the name of Brackett & Kent; who - Brackett & Kent - belonged to a light-horse Company which were mostly killed by the enemy in or about the year 1778, at Tappan New-York; and that the said Brackett & Kent being absent from being absent from their Company on the night of the massacre, their lives were saved. And he further states that

during a great part of the years 1779 and 80 his father's family were residing temporarily at Hackensack - in the County aforesaid - in view of the fact that they - the family - could not reside on the farm aforesaid on account of the enemy; and that he well recollects - when living at Hackensack aforesaid, as aforesaid - of seeing Gen. George Washington, also a soldier by the name of John Dudley who was reputed to be from Virginia; and that he remembers the said Dudley in view of the fact that he was a small man, a very profane man, and of his being considered a good Soldier &c.
He further states that he well recollects to have seen in service in the aforesaid war the aforesaid George Shepherd as aforesaid, when he - Outwater - was living at Hackensack as aforesaid in the years 1779 and 80 that he recollects the said Shepherd in view of the fact that he - Shepherd - was known as a brave man, a good soldier, and in view of the fact that he - Shepherd - was known to be from the vicinity of Belville and Bergen Point; and that he did not know of any other George Shepherd being in service besides the one aforesaid as aforesaid: that he believes that the aforesaid George Shepherd whom he saw in service as aforesaid was the husband of Mrs. Catherine Shepherd who now resides in Dunson - formerly a part of Bergen County New Jersey, and who is an applicant for a pension; - as he is credibly informed - and, in view of the fact that the said Shepherd was known to be when in service in the war as aforesaid from - or near - that part of the county and State that

Mrs Shepherd resides — in Rendson County formerly a part of Bergen aforesaid: and that he is very confident that the said Shepherd was a blacksmith by trade.
And he further states that when he was living at Hackensack as aforesaid the Camps of the Am- erican Army were in the immediate vicin- ity which enabled him to become acquainted with many in service as aforesaid in said war, and that he recollects of hearing of the execution of Major Andre which enables him to recollect of his living at Hack- ensack as aforesaid.
He further states that he has no interest in this Claim.
The words "to have seen in service in said war" interlined before signing.
Witness — Henry B Lobuschke
Jacob Culwater
Sworn to and subscribed before me on the day and year above written by the aforesaid Jacob Culwater and after being twice carefully read and ex- plained to him in my presence and I hereby certify that I have no interest in said claim
Henry B Lobuschke Justice of the Peace

State of New Jersey R Bergen County ss.
I James G. Atkinson Clerk of the County of Bergen and Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said County do certify that Henry B. Zabriskie before whom the foregoing deposition Jacob Dettwater was taken and to which he has subscribed his name was at the time of the doing thereof and still is a Justice of the peace in and for said County duly commissioned and sworn and fully authorized to take the same and further that I am well acquainted with the handwriting of said Justice and verily believe that his signature to the same is genuine
Witness my hand and seal of said County and Court This 28 th day of November A.D. 1879 J. G. Atkinson Clerk

91085-16055
1 Fili in cam Bounty Land Claim of Mrs. Catharine Shepherd, widow of George. Act of 1855.
Rev.
Additional evidence No. 203526
J. C. Dickey, Attorney Present.

29 Nov 39 State of New Jersey } ss. Essex County }
On this 29 th day of November A D 1839 personally appeared before me a justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid, James H. Foreleman, aged 78 years, a resident of said county, a person to me well known to be a credible person, and entitled to belief, who on his oath duly administered according to law, declares that he is the son of Captain Henry Foreleman who was a duly commissioned Captain in the New-Jersey Militia of the Revolutionary war, that he is also the son-in-law of Captain Abraham Spier who was also a Captain in the New-Jersey Militia in the said war and, who Spier was pensioned before his death; that being a son-in-law of Captain Spier as aforesaid, he - Foreleman - was much of his time in the company of said Captain Spier, and has often heard the said Capt. Spier speak of his services, and the men under his command in the the war as aforesaid.
He further states that he has often heard  the said Captain Spier speak of the men under his command in the aforesaid war as aforesaid.  that the said Captain Spier told him - Foreleman - that Peter Van Winkle James Hornblower, and George Shepherd served under him - Spier - and in the company he com-

 mounted when in service in the aforesaid war, as  aforsaid; and, that the said Peter Van Winkle, James  Korneblower and George Shepherd served in  his - Spier's Company for more than two years  in the war as aforesaid; and, that the said George  Shepherd was a blacksmith of Bergen County;  in the state aforesaid, that the said Captain  Spier told him - for almon - that he - Spier  served as aforesaid in said war at Hackensack,  Elizabeth Town Point &c. 
He further states that although being very well acquainted in Essex and Bergen Counties afore- said he never knew of any other George Shepherd besides the one who served in Captain Spier's Company as aforesaid.
He further states that he has no interest in this claim.
Sworn and Subscribed before me this County month day of November A.D. 1859 and further than I have no interest in the above claim
James H. Kotchman
Theodore Blauvelt " " " "
State of New Jersey County of Essex John M. Chauncey Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas of said County do certify that Theodore

Ludford whose genuine signature is written to the foregoing pural, was at the time of taking the same and now is an acting Justice of the Peace of said county duly commissioned and sworn and authorized by law to take affidavits and to his official acts full faith and credit are due, and I do further certify that I have not any interest in this application
In Testimony whereof I have hereto set my hand and the Seal of said Court at Swanton this Thirtieth day of November Eighteen hundred and fifty nine
John McChesney Clerk

302 326
Bounty Land Claim of Mrs. Catherine Shepherd widow of George.
Boniton
Aug 27/59
Additional evidence.
No 203 326.
303 326
Not found in sec. 10. files Nov 11/59
Filed by J. C. Dickey of Washington D. C. Nov. 9 th 1834.

State of New Jersey, } ss. Hudson City, Hudson County. }
On this fifth day of November A.D. 1859 personally appeared before me a justice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid, Mrs. Catharine Shepherd, aged Ninety six years, a resident of said county, who being duly sworn according to law, declares that she is the identical person who made application for bounty land as the widow of George Shepherd who was a private soldier in the company commanded by Captain Abraham Speed, of New Jersey Militia in the Revolutionary war.
She further states that during the lifetime of her aforesaid husband, George Shepherd, she heard him frequently speak of his services in the aforesaid war : that from the loss of memory occasioned by her great age she is unable to recollect much of the conversation that took place between herself and husband with regard to his services in said war: but, that some of the conversations with regard to his services aforesaid she has a very clear and distinct recollection of, and that she has heard him frequently say that he served in said war in tours of two or three months; that he was engaged in building breast-works at Elizabethown Point, in the State aforesaid: and, that from the conversations she has had with her said husband about the

war, she is confident that he must have performed a long period of service during the war, and also in view of the fact that he - her husband - served much of the time on what is known as Bergen Point - and its vicinity - on the west side of the Hudson River opposite the City of New York.
She further states that during a great part of the Revolutionary war her father Jacob - Van Winkle - was the proprietor of a Hotel which was located in the present City of Poughkeepsie, on the west side of the Hudson River, and about three two miles from the City of New York; that during the war, the Officers of the British Army met frequently at her father's house, when the movements of the enemy were discussed; and that in view of this fact her father - who was intimately acquainted with Gen. Washington the Commander in Chief of the American Army - was enabled to, and did communicate much important information - with regard to the movements of the enemy - to General Washington: that she - this deponent - was sent by her father - who had obtained information of the movements of the enemy - to Belville about six miles distant from her father's residence to inform the citizens of the approach of the enemy; and that there - at Belville - she saw one Capt. Speer who armed the citizens of the place and defended it against the assaults of the enemy, and that by the intelligence she thus conveyed the citizens were saved from being massacred by the enemy.

She further states that she was very intimately acquainted with General Washington; and, that she is confident that if he were living he would take a very active and lively interest in her present claim on the government; and she hereby most respectfully requests and desires, that the Commissioner of Pensions will extend to her claim that liberal and enlightened action which the case demands.
Witnesses —
John Lise
Adolphus M. Marten
Catharine her Shepherd X mark
Sworn and subscribed to before me on the day and year above written, after being carefully read and explained to Mrs. Shepherd in the presence of John Lise, and myself, and I hereby certify that I have no interest in this Claim
Adolphus M. Marten
Justice of the Peace in and for Hudson County
N. J.
State of New Jersey Hudson County ss
I Robert Gilchrist Clerk of Hudson County and Clerk of the Circuit Court

and Court of Common Pleas holden in and for said county, do hereby certify that Adolphus W Martin before whom the within affidavit was taken, was at the time of taking such affidavit and still is a justice of the Peace in and for the County of Hudson duly commissioned and qualified.
And I do further certify that the sig- nature "Adolphus W Martin" is genuine
Witness my hand and the seal of said courts + county this fifth day of November A D 1859
R. G. Nichols Clerk

George Shepherd
Wolfart St
He died at 5 Corners Bergen (now Hudson) Bergen, New Hudson County NY Mar 25. 1843 aged 84 years one month & 21 days without having applied for pension. For 15 years prior to his decease he was so mentally afflicted  with property diminished that  that  of the latter which had been demarcated disqualified for business. Two citizens were appointed to take charge of his property . He was also nearly blind - During the last period he did not go from his house.
He was married in Bergen County Augt 26. 1782 to Catharine Van Kinkle daughter of Jacob & Rachel (Commequaer) Kinkle by the Rev d Mr Jackson pastor of the Dutch Reformed Church where she was baptized. She was born June 1. 1763 & alive in Nov 1861 aged 98 years. Her son John Tice in Nov 1859 was Post Master at Hudson NY with whom living .
She had a brother David Van Kinkle.
Her father was proprietor of the  as long as he lived it prudent to remain  when the officers of the American troop occupied the place, or the British officers when in possession usually a when  they were  then  when  the  subject of  public or private discussion  or contemplation were  the  subject of  public or private discussion . Rachel late Rachel Van Kirk was her oldest child.
The widow applied for pension in May 1858, & stated that her husband enlisted in, or between the dates 1779 & 1781 in the militia under Capt Abraham Spear in the command of Major Winder & Colo it was in service at Bergen & Hackensack  to serve to the end of the war, but was unable to to  the  service  any  other  than  above  mentioned  officers  except  Capt  John  Orlander,  nor  did  the  officers  of  the  unit  who  could  testify  to  her  husband's  service  that  he  served  in  the  war  &  was  usually  present  as  such  soldier  when  the  unit  was  at  Bergen,  Hackensack,  Elizabeth  Point  &  Staten  Island.

24 th July was Col. Brant - One witness was present with others about 1805 when a conversation took place with Capt. Shaw or some of his family as the names of those who served under his  that the original roll in his possession was produced, on which the witness saw the name of George Shepherd but had no recollection as to the term of his service.
No militia man as such engaged to serve to the end of the war, such enlistments belonged to the Continental regiments & for shorter periods over 12 months to the State regiments - He may have belonged to the alarm list to turn out alternately usually for a month at a time , the aggregate if amounting to 6 months limited would entitle the party to minimum pension & if more to a proportion of the maximum pension.
As the evidence did not specify the date of commencement or duration of service there was nothing no on which to estimate for a pension could be made.
The office, however, deemed it sufficient for the 14 th day which the law act of March 3 1855 - required for bounty land & granted a warrant for 160 acres.
Her father was well acquainted with Genl. Washington (as well as herself) repeatedly furnished intelligence for her. On one occasion he sent her knowledge to Philadelphia to notify the arrival of a surprise which was intended by British soldiers around which she was then & did make the attack & before the fact could reach Philadelphia N.Y., the guest was surprised.

Dayton O H June 24 th '91
Y. R. Ramsey Comm. of Pensions.
Dear Sir
Some time ago I wrote in- quiring if there was any record at your office that George Shepherd of Bergen, State of New Jersey was a soldier in the U. S. Army during the American Revolution. I also inquired if his widow Cath- arine Shepherd ever received a pension from the U. S on account of the services of her husband during the said revolution. As yet I have received no reply Will you be kind enough

To give the matter your immediate attention: By so doing you will confer a favor on
Yours Truly J. B. Shepherd
Direct. Rev. J. B. Shepherd
Lock Box
583
Brighamstown

Rev J B Shepherd June 24 1891 George Shepherd N.Y. Lithographer etc.

Hudson City New Jersey Aug. 12 th 1859.
To the Comr. of Pensions; Sir,
In view of my great age and bodily infirmity I shall esteem it a great favor if you will act upon my application for bounty land and pension, immediately,
With great respect Your Obt. Svt.
Witness — Catharine her Shepherd mark
John Sise

(Lo. K 64 5 & 3)
Trinity Rectory May 23 rd 1897. Seymour Conn.
Dear Sir..
Will you be kind enough to let me know if there is any record in the Pension Office of the receiving of a pension by Catherine Shepherd, widow of George Shepherd, a soldier of the Revolution. He belonged to the New Jersey line I believe, and died in Bergen (now Hudson City, N. J. in 1843.
Any information you may be able to give will be esteemed a great favor.
Yours Truly
J. B. Shepherd.
Direct to Rev. J. B. Shepherd,
Rector of Trinity Church.
Seymour
Conn.

Rev J B Shepard Com
May 23 1891
Catharine widow } N.J. Geo. Shepard }
W.I.P. ✓
MAY 23 1891 N.J.

Mrs. J. H. Hamlet, 2060 North Illinois St., Indianapolis, Ind.
December 8, 1915- (Personal injury)

J. C. Hoffman P.O. Box 12, Cincinnati, Ohio.
December 8, 1915 (Personal inquiry)

Rev. - 1. 6. B 26.
330. N. Milton st Phila Pa April 23 rd 1916
To The Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C. Sir:
Will you kindly send me a copy of the records of George Shepherd "R. File 9480 Rev War" & oblige.
Wm T Bishop 330 N. Milton st Phila Pa
fm

State of New Jersey } County of Hudson } 55
On this — Eighth day of September, A. D. one Thousand eight hundred and fifty eight per- sonally appeared George Newkirk, before me a justice of the peace, within and for the County of Hudson in the State of New Jer- sey, a person whom I certify I well know to be respectable and entitled to belief, who is a resident of Hudson County in the State of New Jersey, who after being duly sworn according to law states that he will be seventy five years of age on the 20th day of November A D 1858. and was seventy four years of age on the 20th day of November last past. He states that he was born in Bergen now Hudson County New Jersey, and has resided in the said vicinity ever since. He states that he was born November 20 A D 1783., and that to now and has been ac- quainted with all the living children of George Newkirk and Catharine Newkirk his wife from their infancy. He states that George Newkirk and Catharine Newkirk his wife were married in the County of Bergen in the State of New Jersey sometime

in the year A. D. 1782. Seventeen hundred and eighty two. By one Jackson, a Minister in the Dutch reformed Church of Bergen, who kept but a very imperfect record of births, marriages and deaths. He further states that George Shepherd died about fifteen years ago and his widow, Leah Nathan Shepherd is still alive, and resides in Hudson County, New Jersey, and is aged about ninety five years. He further states that George Shepherd and John Shepherd were regarded in the community in which they lived and died, as soldiers of the army of the United States in the Revolutionary War; and as such as having served faithfully. He further states that Daniel Van Winkle was also regarded as a good soldier in the Revolutionary War though not of the same Regiment. He states that at the celebrations of the 4th of July, which celebrations are not very common in this vicinity, George Shepherd and John Shepherd, his brother, Daniel Van Winkle and many of the name of Vree land were regarded as revolutionary soldiers of the American Army. He further states that he knows no knowledge of the marriage of George Shepherd and

Catharine Shepherd, and the true thing from his own mother, who always said that they, George Shepherd and Catharine van Mue- kle had been married but about one year before his, this claimant's birth. The further states that the aforesaid David van Muekle was a brother of the said Catharine Shepherd. And the further states that he has no interest in the claim of the said Catharine. Shep- herd for a pension, is no relation of the said Catharine Shepherd or of any of her children, and that he is not concerned in the prose- cution of this claim. The further states that he can not without inconvenience attend in open court to testi- fy.
George Schenck
Sworn to and subscribed before me and after the foregoing had been read to and by the said George Schenck; and I certify that I have no interest in this claim and am not concerned in its prosecution. The words "and by" given under my hand the interlined before signing, and year aforesaid in of and certifying. John Tice Justice of the Peace John Tice Justice of the Peace

State of New Jersey
County of Hudson } 88
I Robert G. Schmit certify that John Lise, before whom the foregoing affidavit was made and by whom the within certificate was given was at the time of giving the same and still is an acting Justice of the peace in and for Hudson County in the State of New Jersey, duly commissioned and sworn and that his signature to the same is his genuine signature
Given under my hand as the Clerk of Hudson County New Jersey and under the said seal this 8th day of September A.D. 1858.
In presence of R. G. Schmit Andrew Mount (W)

3112326
Act March 3/55
August 15/59
See rejected application for pension
Catharine Shepherd wid of George Shepherd pri
Capt. Speer
St. J. Mil
No Acres
War of the Rev.
Original brief inside
J. C. Pickney Present
1891 Oct 15 Rev. J. B. Shepherd history Pres.