Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 15260, for John Potter, Massachusetts

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass.
Potter, John Rhoda
W. 15260
CONTENTS

Massachusetts
Rhoda Potter deceased widow of John Potter who died on the 20 th Octr 1818 of Worcester in the State of Mass a who was a S t P.M. in the — commanded by Captain — of the — commanded by — in the Revolution for 8 mos S t P.M. 2 " 21 days S t P.M.
Inscribed on the Roll of Boston, at the rate of 235 Dollars 98 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4 th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 9 th day of March 1852 and sent to P. M. Krayer Esq
Arrears to the 4 th of Present Semi-annual allowances ending
Unpaid from $116:44
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Act July 7, 1838. }
Recorded by Noteighman Clerk, Book 1. Page 75
A. 1.119

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, August 30 1843
I hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents, relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that the name of John Potter is found upon a roll of Militia Officers, Commissioned, as a Lieutenant in Capt Eben Newhall's Company of the Fourth Regiment of the County of Worcester, bearing date of June 7. 1777.
The name of John Potter is not upon any of the papers of the regiments set forth in the application. There are rolls of Col Ezra Woods Regiment for Eight months Service in 1778 & 1779, and his return of Staff Officers for that time. But no paymasters name appears on the roll.
And I further Certify, That, before search made for evidence of said facts, the application hereto annexed was filed in this

Office, in the form in which the same now appears; that the search was made by myself and my clerks alone; and that said application and the certificate above set forth, contain all the facts and circumstances which tend to satisfy me of the identity of the party described in the application with the individual who rendered the service.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
Jno. A. Bolles Secretary of the Commonwealth.

I John C Potter of Boston, in the County of Suffolk, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, of lawful age depose and say, that being Executor of the last Will and Testament of Rhoda Potter late deceased of North Brookfield in the County of Worcester and State aforesaid agreeable to the laws of this State, and that as the said Rhoda Potter did receive a Pension from the United States and that by reason of her circumstances and information received. I have good reason to believe she did not receive the full amount of Pension which she was justly entitled to receive for the services of her husband John Potter in the Revolution. I hereby request for and in behalf of the heirs of the aforesaid Rhoda Potter an examination of the Rolls and documents in the care and superintendence of the Secretary of this Commonwealth. I would respectfully refer to the Rolls of Companies in the alarms and short services from Brookfield in the year 1775 and first of 1776 as Ensign or Lieutenant, also that he was a Lieutenant three or six months at New York and White Plains in the last of 1776. and first of 1777. and refer to the names of the Officers in Col n Brd Dennet (or Danneys) Reg t or Col n J s Whitneys or Col n Simonds Reg t , also that he was Paymaster in Col n Ezer Woods Reg t or Col n R. Putnam in 1778 & 1779 for eight months or more that he was also at New Port in the service in the State of Rhode Island, and I request an examination for proof of the service of said John Potter from Brookfield, and that the proof found be forwarded to Elijah Clark of Brighton who is to aid the claim for me.
John C. Potter

Suffolk, ss. Aug. 14 th 1843. Sworn and subscribed Before me
Lowell M c Intire Just. Peace

Rhoda Datter widow of John of Mass. admitted case, act of 1838.  1838

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Worcester, ss. I, Charles G. Prentiss, Register of the Court of Probate for the County of Worcester, aforesaid, do hereby certify, that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court, that Rhoda Potter, late of North Brookfield, in said County, deceased, was, at the time of her death, a Pensioner of the United States; that she died on the eleventh day of May, eighteen hundred and forty-three, and that her only living children are Rhoda Brown, Betsey, Jane, and Luther Potter.
And I further certify, that, on the sixth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty-three, John C. Potter, of Boston, in the County of Suffolk, was appointed Executor of the Will of said Rhoda Potter, deceased, and gave bond, according to law, for the faithful discharge of that trust; and that it appears by the Records and files of said Court, that said appointment remains in full force, in nowise revoked, reversed, or annulled.
In testimony whereof, I do hereunto set my hand, and the Seal of said Court, at Worcester, this fourteenth day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty-one.
Chas. G. Prentiss, Reg.

518 Rhoda Potter Wid of John Mass. Ad 7 July 38 Married 1782 died 1818
Allow Dmo 4th Inst 28.44 41 12. Paymark 88 6 = 10 $116:44 In arms
C. G. Poenb Worcester Mass
for the outgate in the case of some to Charles H. Prouty Esq. - Worcester Mass
C. G. Poenb

518 Rhoda Doller Wid of John Mass. Ad 7 July 38 Maud 1782 dec 1888 (Alma) Dmo 4th Inst 28. 44 11 - 12. Paym ts 88  6 = 10 $116.44 In arms
C. G. Prentiss Worcester Mass
Let the Outgoings in this case be sent to Charles G. Prentiss Esq r - Worcester Mass
 J. B. Mason J. P. P. 

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
His Excellency EDWARD EVERETT , Governor and Commander in Chief in and over said Commonwealth
To all whom it may concern:
Edward Everett Know Ye, That Ira Barton Esq. is Judge of Probate for the County of Worcester, - and Samuel B Walcott Esq. is a Justice of the Peace for the County of Middlesex; (and they were so at the date of their several Attestations) in the said Commonwealth, duly constituted and commission- ed, and that to their Acts and Attestations, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, in and out of Court; that the within Attestation is in due form, and by the proper Officer.
In Testimony Whereof, I have caused the Public Seal of the Commonwealth to be hereunto affixed, this seventeenth day of August, A. D. 1838, and in the sixty third Year of the Independence of the United States of America.
By His Excellency the Governor.
John P. Bigelow Secretary of the Commonwealth.

I Eli Forbes of North Brookfield in the County of Hampshire and State of Massa- chusetts, being sixty two years of age, do hereby affirm and say that I know John Potter from the time he married his wife Rhoda Potter till the time of his death about twenty years ago in the fall of the year. His widow the said Rhoda Potter is still living in said North Brookfield, and has never been married since his death. He was a Capt in the Militia after the war of the Revolution and was always reported to be an Officer in the Revolutionary Army. Mrs. Potter is a woman of fine character.
Eli Forbes
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
August 10. 1838
before me, the personally appearance Eli Forbes known also known who is known to me as a man of truth and made oath that the above dep- osition is true - Refuse me
Samuel Boston Judge of the Court of Probate for said County

I Frederick C. Potter of North Brookfield in the County of Franklin and State of Massachusetts, do hereby certify that I am a grandson of John Potter late of said North Brookfield deceased He He died about twenty years ago & Mother Potter his widow has never been married since and now re- sides with me. The room and rolls annexed to her declaration were found amongst the papers of my Grandfather and I have no doubt are in his handwriting from a comparison with a great number of other papers known to be in his hand writing. He was a long time Clerk of said town. Said papers are marked (A.)
F. C. Potter
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Sworn to July 10. 1838 Then personally ap- peared Francis A. Potter also known who is known to me as a man of truth and made oath that the above declaration by him submitted is true
Before me
Am. Baston Jury of the Court of Probate for said County

I Charles Adams Jr of North Brookfield in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth of Massachusetts of lawful age do testify and say that I have in my possession the Records of the Town of North Brookfield aforesaid, and that I find the following record therein viz
One thousand eight hundred and eighteen October twentieth the death of Captain John Potter
And I hereby certify that the above is a true copy of the record with the exception of the date which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures as follows "Oct. 20th 1818"
Chas. Adams Jr Town Clerk of North Brookfield
I Charles Adams Jr above named depose & say that I hold the Office of Town Clerk in the County town & State aforesaid & that the above is a true extract from the records of said town with the exception above named as certified by me (Chas. Adams Jr Town Clerk of North Brookfield)
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
vs. John Potter. Aug. 10. 1818 Then personally appeared Charles Adams above named who is known to me as a man of truth & made oath that the above deposition by him subscribed is true - Ref. m
See Boston Journal of State

Commonwealth of Massachusetts County of Bristol ss.
On this tenth day of August in the year eighteen hundred and thirty eight personally appeared before me Ballou Judge of the Court of Probate for said County of Bristol Rhoda Potter a res- ident of North Brookfield in said County aged eighty five years, who being first duly sworn doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed July 7, 1838 entitled an Act granting half pay and pensions to Cutter & others.
That she is the widow of John Potter late of said North Brookfield who was a first Lieutenant and Paymaster in the army of the Revolution. When he went into the service he belonged to said town of North Brookfield, as it was then, a part of the town of Brookfield, and she belonged to the town of Hopkinton in the County of Middlesex, and her acquaintance with him did not commence till he came out of the service. She cannot therefore tell much of his services as of her own husband. It appears however from his commission as first Lieutenant in the Middlesex, which is hereto annexed,

that he received his commission for that fire on the 7th of June 1777. Since it further appears from three original pay rolls found amongst his papers which are also annexed that he went into actual service in the Company commanded by Capt. Joel Green and in the Regiment commanded by Col. Ezra Wood, in the Month of June 1778 and performed service as first Lieutenant for the term of three months. There are also enclosed this declaration a record in the handwriting of her said husband from which it appears that he was appointed paymaster in said Regiment on the 18th day of August in the year 1778. and the pay rolls of the field & staff officers of said Regiment also show that her said husband performed service as paymaster till the end of January in the year 1779. She is not aware that her said husband was out any days, but if he was she presumes the rolls in the Depart- ment will show it, and she also en- losed accordingly.
She further declares that she was mar- ried to the said John Potter at said Hopkinton on the Twelfth day of April or the first day of May in the year seventeen hundred and eighty two by the Rev. Eliah Fitch, Minister of Gospel there; That her husband, the aforesaid

John Potter died on twentieth day of Au- gust in the year 1818, and that she has remained his widow ever since; that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the same, but she was married to him pre- vious to the first day of January in the year seventeen hundred ninety four, to wit at the time above stated
I then to and subscribe the day & year above written before me
Her Rhoda X Potter mark
McBarton judge of the Court of Probate for said county of Linn -

I, Daniel Singletary of Hopkinton in the County of Middlesex & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Esquire of lawful age do testify & say that I have in my possession the records of the town of Hopkinton aforesaid & that I find the following record therein viz.
One thousand seven hundred & eighty two, March, tenth A. Marriage proposed between Capt. John Potter of Brookfield & Rhoda Burnap of Hopkinton.
And I hereby certify that the above is a true copy of the record, with the exception of the date, which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures, as follows
1782. March 10.
Daniel Singletary. Town Clerk.
I, Daniel Singletary above named, depose & say, that I hold the office of Town Clerk in the County, Town & State aforesaid, & that the above is a true extract from the records of said town, with the exception above named, as certified by me.
(Daniel Singletary. Town Clerk of Hopkinton—
State of Massachusetts, Middlesex County } ss.
Aug. 3. 1838. Sworn before me,
Samuel P. Walcott, Justice of the Peace.
And I moreover certify that I am well acquainted with the aforesaid Daniel Singletary & that he is a man of truth & veracity,
Samuel P. Walcott, Justice of the Peace.

I, Elijah Fitch of Hopkinton in the County of Middlesex & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Clerk of the Church of the First Parish in Hopkinton do hereby certify that I have in my custody the book in which the marriages in the said Town of Hopkinton were many years recorded & that I find thereon the following records viz.
April thirtieth One thousand seven hundred & eighty-two Capt. John Potter & Rhoda Burnap were married.
And I certify that the above is a true copy of the record, with the exception of the date which is expressed on the record in fair legible figures, as follows.
April 30. 1782.
Elijah Fitch Clerk of the Church
I, Elijah Fitch above named, depose & say, that I hold the office of Clerk of the Church of the First Parish in Hopkinton in the County, town & State aforesaid & that the above is a true extract from the records of said Church with the exception above named as certified by me.
Elijah Fitch Clerk
State of Massachusetts } p. Middlesex County
Aug. 3. 1838. Sworn before me, & I hereby certify that I am well acquainted with the said Elijah Fitch & that he is a man of truth & veracity.
Samuel B. Walcott, Justice of the Peace.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston May 9. th 1844.
I hereby Certify, That at the date of within attestation, Chauncy Edmands, was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Worcester, and William Warren a Justice of the Peace for the County of Middlesex.
in the said Commonwealth, duly constituted and commissioned; and that to their acts and attestations, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, in and out of Court.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
Wm. S. Difts. Secy
Secretary of the Commonwealth.

I Charles Adams Jr. of North Brookfield in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts do hereby say that I hold the office of Town Clerk in said town of North Brookfield, that I have been duly elected and qualified according to law, that I have in my care and keeping the Records of said town, from the time of its incorporation; also the Records of this part of the town of Brookfield, which, before its incorporation, was called the Second Precinct in Brookfield, and that on examination of Warrants for Meetings for the Precinct and the Records of the same, it appears that assessments were made upon the Precinct, for the payment of certain men raised to do service in the Revolution, from which Records the following are extracts
(S.S.) Worcester p. 7
To Thomas Harday one of the Constables of the Town of Brookfield, Greeting ~
In the name of the Government & People of the State of Massachusetts Bay you are hereby required to notify and sum all the freeholders and other inhabitants living in the Second Precinct in Brookfield, qualified by law to vote in Precinct Meetings to assemble at the Meeting house in said Precinct on Monday the 17th of July Instant at two O'Clock afternoon then & there to act on the following Articles viz -
( * * * * * )
1stly to see if the Precinct will appoint a Committee to join with the Militia Officers in making an over- -edg through the Precinct with regard to Services

performed in the Army since the three years men were raised and mustered their Committee aforesaid whether the same number of months at all times & places shall be reckoned equally alike or whether they will submit the same to the judgement of their Committee
( + + + + + + + + )
Whereof fail not and make return of this Warrant & your doings thereon to some one of ourselves on or before 1 st day - Given under our hands & seal this fifteen day of July A.D. 1780
John Lycomb } Committee for the Erasmus Woolcott } Second Precinct in Daniel Gilbert } Brookfield Rev. Adams Jr. } Eli Howe } 1780
Warrant.
in obedience to this Warrant I have notified and warned all the freeholders and other inhabitants living in the Second Precinct in Brookfield qualified by law to vote in precinct meetings by posting a true copy. Thomas Hardy Constable
At a Legal Meeting of the Inhabitants of the Second Precinct in Brookfield on Monday the 17th day of July 1780 as per Warrant on file Voted Capt. John Lycomb Moderator
( + + + + + + + + + )
Voted to appoint a Committee of seven men to join with the Officers in making an estimation of the charges of the War that have arisen since the three years men were raised
(over)

Voted that Capt. John Sycorn St. William Syrus, Bry. Adam jun. Eli How, Rev. John White, Daniel Forbes and Solomon Foster be the Committee aforesaid. Voted that the Committee aforesaid shall make return of their doings sometime in the month of October next — ( + + + + + ) Then the Meeting was dismissed —
At a legal meeting of the inhabitants freeholders & other inhabitants of the Second Precinct in Brookfield on Monday the 23 rd Day of October 1780 as per Warrant on file
Voted Rev. John White Moderator — ~ ~ ~
The Committee appointed at the last Meeting to estimate the charges of the War since the three years men were raised brought in their report which being read, it was voted to accept a part of the same
Then voted that those that hired Joshua Priest & Robert Hall during the War be allowed equal to others that hired for nine months at the same time and that with this amendment the whole of the report of the Committee be accepted — ~ ~ ~
Voted that the officers be directed to govern them- selves according to the estimation made by this Committee in levying money granted for the purpose of hiring soldiers into the army. —
Then the Meeting was dismissed —
A true Copy — Attest Charles Adams Jr Town Clerk of said North. Brookfield —

Worthington J. - North Brookfield May 2. 1844 - Personally appeared Charles Adams Jr. and made oath that the foregoing Certificate subscribed by him is true Before me Chauncy Edmands Justice of the Peace.

Extract from a Report of a Committee to estimate the charge of the war, on file in the Town Clerk's Office in the Town of North Brookfield in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts as follows viz "To the inhabitants of the Second Precinct in Brookfield - Greeting -
The the subscribers the Military Officers and Committee appointed to estimate the charges of the war that have arisen within this Precinct since the three years war now on hand have agreed to the following Report (viz) - First It appears to this Committee that in making the old estimation or estimate the Committee which were appointed by the separate Companies proceeded upon different plans in the assessment then made, by which means persons which did service for one Company had more credit than those that did the same time of service for the other Company, which will operate as an unequal tax if levied upon the whole Precinct therefore voted that each Company settle their own affairs relative to the old settlement separately and by themselves as they shall think proper -
2 ly Voted that the times of service hereafter enumerated be estimated at the prices affixed to them severally (viz)
  2 Months at Rhode Island 1777-  15  per month    1 do at Bennington  do 20  per do    6 Months at Rhode Island  do 10  per do    5 Days to Hadley  do  6 shillings    3 Months at Bennington  do 20  per month  

1 Volunteer to Bennington at the rate of 20/ per month 2 Months to Springfield do 6 per do 3 Months at Boston 1778 10/ per do 6 months at R. Island do 10/ per do 3 months at Boston do 8/ per do 3 months at Rutland do 5/ per do 15 Days to Enfield do 5/ per do 6 Weeks to Rhode Island do at 20/ per do 6 Weeks at R. Island 1779 15/ per do 3 Months at Rutland do 18/ per do Continental for 9 months do 18/ per do 6 Months at R. Island do 15/ per do 3 Months at Rutland do 10/ per do 6 weeks at Castle Island do 10/ per do 6 weeks at Gloucester do 15/ per do 2 Months at Rutland 1780 6/ per do 3 Months at Rutland do 9/ per do 7 days to Boston with prisoner 5/ per do 3 months to Boston last winter 5/ per do
And whereas St. John Potter & St. Jonas Brigham have been called into service at times when the soldiers have been raised by assessments made upon the precinct in which they have been taxed proportionably with others there- fore voted that St. Potter be allowed 15/ per month and St. Brigham 18/ per month for their services.
( + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + )
The foregoing is upon the most careful consideration and judgment of the matter committed to us all which we submit to the candid examination of the precinct for their acceptance or rejection - ( + + + + + + + + + + )

We have prefixed to this report a list of the ratable inhabitants of this precinct, with the credit due to each person according to this estimation
Brookfield October 23 d 1780
Daniel Gilbert Eli Newell John Potter Jonas Brigham Joseph Bush Thos. Hale Jr. Soso Foster John Sisson William Ayres 2 d John Waite Daniel Forster Benj n Adams Jun. Eli Howe "
I hereby certify that prefixed to the foregoing Report I find a long list of names of persons with the amounts credited opposite to each, and among them I find the name of "St. John Potter 7-2-6"
The foregoing is a true extract from the original Report on file in this Office
Attest Charles Adams Jr. Young Clerk of said North Brookfield
Worcester. North Brookfield May 2. 1844 — Personally appeared Charles Adams Jr. and made oath that the foregoing certificate subscribed by him is true —
Before me Chancy Edmunds Jus. Peace

T. Eliza Clark of Brighton in the county of Middlesex Commonwealth of Massachusetts, of lawful age. Depose and say, that I have in my possession, care keeping original Revolutionary Roll and Documents, and from an examination of the Company Pay Roll in Col. Ezra Woods Regiment, which Roll I received from the Heirs of Mrs. Rhoda Potter, dau. of North Brookfield I find the name of John Potter, or J. Potter, entered as Paymaster. The packages of Pay Rolls are enclosed by files for the Months of June, July, August, September, October November December 1778, & for January 1779. The Roll of the earliest date appears to be "A Pay Roll of Lieutenant Zachariah Wathins Company in Col. Ezra Woods Regt. of Massachusetts Militia for part of May & the Months of June 1778." (signed) Zachariah Wathins, Lieut. (on the back) Lieut. Wathins Pay Roll for June 1778. J. Potter. P. M ter from another as follows. "A Pay Roll of Capt. Abner Pomeroy's Company in Col. Ezra Woods Regt. for January & part of Feb. 1779, including time for each man to go home", on the back is as follows. I do swear that the within Pay Roll & Vouchers are in a true state of the Company without fraud to the United States or any individual, according to my best knowledge.
Abner Pomeroy, Capt. Sworn before me at Soldiers Fortune in New York State the 2 d day of Feb y 1779, R. Putnam, Colo. Comt. from a package of orders & Receipts in the following. "Rockhill Jan y 31 st 1779. Sir pleas to pay Capt. Abner Pomeroy the whole of my wages from the first day of October last to the time of my Discharge from the service. I am Sir yours, J. S. Lee To Lieutenant John Potter, Paymaster to Col. Woods Regt. (on the back) Brookfield June 1779. Recd. Twenty nine dollars and sixty 9/10 th in full. I say then Abner Pomeroy Capt."

I hereby further certify that the foregoing is a true extract, and a correct account of the same from the original Rolls & Documents in my care and keeping.
Attest Elijah Clark,
Middlesex ss May 8. 1844 Then personally appear- ed the above named Elijah Clark and made oath the the foregoing Certificate by him subscribed is true.
Before me W m Warren, Justice, of the Peace.

7649 Massachusetts
Rhoda Potter nee widow of John who was a Lt. Col. and St. Mass. in the Revolution
Due from P.M. 16:44
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of $35 Dollars 98
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843. Genl
May 11: 1843
Certificate of Pension issued the 9 th day of March, 1852 and sent to
J. M. Mayer Present
[Acts of March 3, 1843, & June 17, 1844.]
Recorded in Book A Vol. 2 Page 36
36

Agent 1st.. of April, 1846. — letter to E. Clark by 10 1846. 03 See also encl. Certificate within.
7649. Massachusetts.
Rhoda Potter, deceased, widow of John Potter, who was a Lieutenant & Pay Master, in the Massachusetts line.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 116 Dollars 114
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843. & ending on the 11th. May, 1843 —
Certificate of Pension issued the 31. day of March, 1846, and sent to Hon. John Davis,
U. S. Senate.
[Act of March 3, 1843.]

Massachusetts Rhoda Potter widow of John Potter decd.
who was a pensioner under the Act of and who died on the 20th October 1818 of Worcester Co. in the State of Mass. who was a Sergeant in the Company commanded by Captain Green of the Regt. commanded by Col. Wood in the U.S. time for 4 mos & 12 days Pay Master 2 " 4 " " Lieut.
Inscribed on the Roll of Mass. at the rate of 116 Dollars 44 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1838.
Certificate of Pension issued the 20th day of Sept. 1838 and Lieut. Col. A.S. Prentiss Worcester Mass.
Arrears to the 4th of Sept 1838 $291.10 Semi-annual allowance ending 4 March 38. 58.22 $349.32
{ Act July 7, } 1838. }
Recorded by R.H. Addison Clerk, Book 4 Vol. 126 Page 119

Massachusetts 396
Rhoda Potter
widow of John Potter, dec'd,
who was a pensioner under the Act of and who died on the 20 th October 1818 of Worcester Co in the State of Massachusetts, who was a Paymaster in the Company commanded by Captain Green of the Regiment commanded by Col (Moor) in the Massachusetts - time for 4 mo 12 days Pmth 2 " 4 " Sent.
Inscribed on the Roll of Massachusetts at the rate of 116 Dollars 144 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 20 th day of September 1838 and sent to C. G Prentiss Worcester Mass
Total amount, to { $ 349.32 March 1839 }
[Act July 7, 1838.]
Recorded by D. D. Addison Clerk, Book A Vol. 1 Page 119
Ser to Elijah Clark April 1. 1844
" " 27 Sept. 1844 -
to Do. 28 July 1845.
dote same Oct 22 nd 1845.

76 49.
Ref - 2 caps -
Massachusetts
Rhoda Potter, dec d widow of John Potter, who was a Lieut & Pay Master in the Massachusetts Line Husband died 20. Octo. 1818.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 116 Dollars 44 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843, & end on the 11 th May 1843, when she died.
Certificate of Pension issued the 1 st Sept. day of September 1846 and sent to
Elizah Clark, Esq. Brighton, Massachusetts.
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book A Vol. 2. Page 36.
Payable to Rhoda Brown, Luther Potter, and Betty Jenks, ad

STATE of the Massachusetts-Bay.
The Major Part of the COUNCIL of the Massachusetts-Bay, in New-England.
To John Potter Esq. Gentleman. Greeting.
YOU being appointed First Lieutenant of the Inverness Company Commanded by Eben: Newhall in Fourth Regiment in the County of Worcester. Whereof James Paine Esq. is Colonel.
By Virtue of the Power vested in us, W.E do. by these Presents, (reposing special Trust and Confidence in your Loyalty, Courage, and good Conduct,) Commission you accordingly. — You are therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the Duty of a First Lieutenant in leading, ordering and exercising said Company in Arms, both Inferior Officers and Soldiers; and to keep them in good Order and Discipline: And they are hereby commanded to obey you as their First Lieutenant and you are yourself, to observe and follow such Orders and Instructions as you shall from Time to Time receive from The Major Part of the Council or your Superior Officers.
GIVEN under our Hands, and the Seal of the said State, at Boston the Seventh Day of June in the Year of our Lord, 1776.
By the Command of the Major Part of the Council.
Gen: Powell Wilson Wheeler Caleb Rusping Rich: Duryea John Whitecomb Shaler Moses Gill Chas. Dyer Salmon H. Gardner Benj. Austin Dan: Davis N. Cushing Oliver Prescott

Rhoda Potter dec d widow of John Mason
Act 3 March 1843
Issue a new Certificate in this case payable to John C Potter, Executor for the use of her three Children now living viz. Rhoda Potter Sister Potter, and Bridget Jenks, commencing on 4 March and ending on the 11 th May 1843, the day of her death
Elijah Clark Brighton Mass

Brief in the case of Rhoda Potter, dec d , widow of John Potter, late of Worcester County and State of Massachusetts act of July 1838 V c
Claim, ("original," or "for increase.")
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Record evidence — A pay abstract of the Mass. Militia, commanded by Col Ezra Wood, shows that John Potter, served as Lt & Pay Master from May 1778 to February 1779 — Sd to p 235:98. Ldg p 116:44.
Name and residence of Agent
J. M. Hayer, Present
J. Cole Examining Clerk.

Mass.
Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No.
15260
Rhoda Potter
Widow of
John Potter
Lieut Rev War
Act: March 3 rd & July 1 st 1844
Index:—Vol.
M
Page
137
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Rhoda Potter, Dec.
Adams Small Pile $200. " 2 " 21 d. St 35.08 Inc o to $235.98
50 5.15 9.15 79. 78.
Accts 384 43, endg 11 May 1843. payable to John C. Potter, Esq. for the benefit of Rhoda Brown Betsey Jenks Luther Potter, only surviving children
J. M. Thayer Present

No
Rhoda Potter dec d
Widow of John
deaf
Act March 1843
Amount
$116 44 / 100 per annum
from 4 March to 11 th May 1843
payable to John C. Potter
Executor of Rhoda Potter dec d
for the use of her Children viz
Benjamin F. Potter, Rhoda
Dunn, Salina Potter and
Betsy Jenks.
Heir John Davis
Senate W. States

Rhoda Patten
To Mass.
7 th July 1838.
I wish to see the paper
J. M. Mayen
Feb 28
Rhoda Patten
Ms. A. 9. 2. 43-7649
\begin{array}{r} 8 \quad 4 \\ 20 \\ \hline 160 \end{array}

Boston, Mass. 21. Jany. 1857.
Hon. Jas. E. Heath, Commissioner of Pensions.
Sir:
With a view to obtain an Increase of the Pension of Rhoda Potter, dec. Widow of John Potter a Lieutenant and Paymaster, under Act of 7. July 1838, at $116 - per year, please allow John M. Thayer Esq. to examine the papers on which said Pension was granted.
Very Respectfully,
Yr. Ob t Serv t
John C. Potter Executor

Rhoda Potter, dec d
Mass
Oct 7 July 1838/9
Adm o

Boston Jan'y 21, 1851
Hon. James E. Heath Commissioner of Pensions
Sir
As Executor of the Estate of my Grand Mother Mrs. Rhoda Potter, a Revolutionary Pensioner under the act of July 7, 1838, I hereby claim an increase of her Pension under any Laws or regulations which may suit her case —
She was pensioned as the Widow of John Potter, a Lieutenant and Pay Master at $116 per year, and died in 1843
Her annuities were drawn by me for her children, as will appear by reference to the Vouchers supposed to have been filed in the Treasury at Washington by the Pension Agent at Boston, some time in the year 1844 and I will thank you to make a certificate for such increase as may be due, payable to me in like manner for the benefit of the children, and deliver said certificate to my Agent who will present the same Very Respectfully Your Obedt Servt
John L. Potter Executor

Payment to be made at
Boston
by
H. Haven
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of
Massachusetts
Payable on the 4th September and 4th March
Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book 4 Vol. 2 Page 36
D. H. Wood Clerk.
Duplicate.

WAR DEPARTMENT,
WIDOW'S PENSION.
I certify that in conformity with the act of March 3, 1843, Rhoda Potter, dec'd, late of Massachusetts, widow of John Potter, ~ ~ ~ ~ who was a Lieutenant & Paymaster in the Mass. Line and died on the 20 th day of October 1818 ~ is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of One hundred \frac{16}{100} dollars and Forty Four cents per annum, commencing on the 4 th March 1843, and terminating on the 11 th May 1843, ; unless the Pensioner married or died before the last mentioned date; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage or death. when she died, payable Given at the War Office of the United to John C. Potter, Executor, States, this 1 st day of Sept. for the use of her three } one thousand eight hundred and daughters, Rhoda Brown, } Forty Six. Luther Potter and Betsey Jenks. ~ ~ ~
Secretary of War.
Examined and Countersigned.
Commissioner of Pensions.
Duplicate.

Payment to be made at
by
Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of
Payable on the 4th September and 4th March.
Recorded in the Pension Office, in Book            Vol.            Page
Clerk.

WAR DEPARTMENT.
WIDOW'S PENSION.
I certify that in conformity with the act of March 3, 1843, Rhoda Potter, deceased, who was the widow of John Potter, who was a lieutenant and Pay-Master, was entitled to a pension at the rate of $116.44 per annum, commencing on the 4th March 1843 and ending on the 11th of May, 1843, the day of her death; which will be paid without interest upon the production of the proper vouchers to John C. Potter, Executor, for the sole and exclusive benefit of Benjamin F. Potter, Rhoda Mowry, Luther Potter, Mary Jenkins & John C. Potter, only surviving children of Rhoda Potter. The above mentioned list is in the day of deceased.  is included on the pension list at the rate of  _____ dollars and _____ cents per annum, commencing on the  4th March, 1843, and terminating on the 4th March, 1844, unless  the Pensioner should marry or die before the last mentioned date, in  which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage  or death.
Payment to be given at the War Office of the United States, made at Boston this 31st day of March, Massachusetts one thousand eight hundred and forty six.
Secretary of War.
Examined and countersigned.
Commissioner of Pensions.

Brighton. Mass. July. 7 th 1896.
Dear Sir,
I enclose to you herewith the pension certificate of the children of Rhoda Potter, deceased, widow of Lieut John Potter of North Brookfield. John L Potter, the executor of her last will, having been absent, I did not examine closely the purport of the certificate until this morning when it appears to me the certificate makes out five surviving children, instead of the four, as you will find the court certificate thereof, date Sept. 14 th 1823 & pronounced Sept 28 th 1823. I may be mistaken in the construction of words, but have thought it advisable to return it, merely for your review, Respectfully Yours G. H. D. A. & C. Elijah Clark
Hon. James Wilson Commissioner of Pensions Washington City D.C.

Brighton, Mass. August. first 1886.
Dear Sir,
Your letter of date July. 10 th last was received, respecting the children of Mrs Rhoda Potter of North Brookfield, deceased. The additional court certificate is herewith forwarded.
Very Respectfully Elizabeth Clark
Hon. J. L. Edwards Comm. of Pensions Washington, City, D. C.

Oct 22 45
PAID
10
Mrs. James L. Edwards Washington City, D. C.
Asking return of record
 52.60  113.30  8.6  78.5  79.2 
9

Dear Sir,
Brighton Oct. 18, 1845.
I forwarded to you, in June last, several original Rolls, and other documents in further proof in aid of the Claims of the executrix of the Estate of Rhoda Potter deceased of Brookfield, widow of last John Potter , Q.M. for an increase to the amount which she received and with them, I claimed their return as soon as you had made another examination, and Sir, as no additional Pension is allowed, and there is no prospect of pursuing the claim further, I request the immediate return of those original papers I forwarded, which have been omitted, or unnoticed, in my last request respecting their return.
And Sir, on the 23 d of July last, I forwarded to you an original Adzitant Book & Ordeal Book . The property of the children of last Samuel Frost , and particularly requested their return as soon as you had examined them, in the case of Mrs. Mehitable Heywood , deceased of Worcester, the widow of last Paymaster Benjamin Heywood . This case has been honorable dispose off sometime since, and the original Books which I have wrote one since respecting their not being returned, have not as yet been received. Will you Sir, see that they are soon on their way by Mail.
Very Respectfully Yours W. H. H. H. Elijah Clark
Hon. J. L. Edwards Washington City, D.C.

Brighton June. 10 th 1844.
Dear Sir,
I enclose to you herewith original Documents in further support of the claims of Rhoda Potter, deceased widow of Lieutenant John Potter, of which are Lieut. Mathins Pay Roll of June 1778, Lieut. Scitwell for July 1778, endorsed John Potter Pay Master, and a roll of Capt. Pomroy for the months of January 1779, together with two orders for pay showing his service as Pay Master for eight months, and in addition to this, I will refer you to the Down Clerks certificate of the town documents of date May 1844, which last part shows that Lieut. John Potter was paid for other service besides that of the eight months as Pay Master in Col. Woods Regt in 1778, & 1779. I must request, in behalf of the executrix of the late Rhoda Potter, your personal examination of all the evidence presented in support of additional service of Lieut. John Potter in the Revolution.
The original Documents herewith enclosed you will return to me after you have reexamined the claims,
Very Respectfully Yours O. A. S. & C. Elijah Clark
Hon. J. L. Polk Commissioner of Pensions Washington City, D. C.

Brighton May 9 th 1844
Dear Sir,
I enclose to you herewith the additional evidence in support of the claims for an increase to the Pension of Mrs Rhoda Potter of North Brookfield Mass. which I believe will show that Lieut John Potter was Paymaster at least 8 months in Col. Woods Regt. I have not been able to find other evidence as was desired, but from report and the standing of Lieut John Potter it is presumed he rendered other services between the Month of April 1775, and the summer of 1780, which cannot now be proved.
Very Respectfully Yours Col. D. D. Elijah Root
Hon. J. L. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions Washington City, D.C.

Supplement
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Sept 27 1843
I hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents, relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that the name of John Pettee is borne upon the pay rolls of Col Samuel M c Coll, as Lieutenant in the company of Capt Benjamin Simon, from July 3 to Sept 24 1779, in the expedition to Penobscot
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
Jno A Dolee Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Brighton Sept 28 th 1843
Dear Sir,
I enclose to you herewith the documents claims of the Executor of the estate of Abner Potter deceased of North Brookfield. for arrear of Pension, for additional services, & an amount agreeable to the highest rank which John Potter held while in the service,
Very Resp t . Yours Col. S. H. Elijah Clark
Wm J L Edwards Commissioner of Pensions Washington City. D.C.

COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
WORCESTER, ss.
I, Charles L. Prentiss Register of the Court of Probate for the County of Worcester, do hereby certify, that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court, that Rhoda Potter, Widow of  Deceased John Potter was a Pensioner of the United States at the rate of ; was a resident of the County of Worcester in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and died in North Brookfield, in said County in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty- three on the eleventh day of May ; that he left four children only, to wit. Rhoda Brown, Betsey Jenks, Benjamin J. Potter and Luther Potter - and that the said Benjamin J. Potter has since deceased - that John L. Potter of Boston, in the County of Suffolk, is Executor of the Will of the said Rhoda Potter - and that it is the wish of the said John L. Potter that the said children receive the Pension due for their benefit.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Worcester,
this thirty first day of July in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty- six .
Chas. L. Prentiss Register.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts, County of Suffolk. ss.
On this Twentieth day of September, eighteen- hundred and forty three, Personally appeared before Me. Lowell Mr. Gould Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Suffolk, John C Potter, a resident of Boston in said County, who being of lawful age, doth on his oath make the following Declara- tion in order to obtain arrears of pension which he claims as Executor of the last Will & Testament of Rhoda Potter late deceased, of North Brookfield in the County of Worcester, and State aforesaid, & widow of John Potter. That the said Rhoda Potter, having for- merly received a pension under the Act of Congress, passed July seven th 1838, for the services of her husband John Potter, who was Pay Master in Col Ezra Wood's Reg t , for eight months in 1778 & in 1779, he claims an addition the sum allowed the said Rhoda Potter's Pension, agreeable to the highest rank of office which the said John Potter rendered while in that service, also, that he was in the service at Newport in the State of Rhode Island in the year 1777, two or three months as he variously believes, as a first Lieutenant or as a Pay Master, and that he has good reason to believe that the said John Potter rendered other services which he is unable to give proof of this time, he further declares that the said Rhoda Potter died at her residence in North Brookfield on the eleven th day of May eighteen —

and forty three. and that for and in behalf of the heirs of the said Richard Potter deceased. he claims the arrears of pension. and further he saith not,
John C. Patten
Suffolk County, ss. Sept. 20 th 1843. - Sworn to and subscribed before me Lowell M. Stone Justice of the Peace.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston September 27. 1843
I hereby Certify, That at the date of the annexed attestation Lowell A. Stone was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Suffolk,
in the said Commonwealth, duly constituted and commissioned; and that to his acts and attestations, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, in and out of Court.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
Thos. A. Dole Secretary of the Commonwealth.

COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS.
WORCESTER, ss.
I, Charles G. Prentiss Register of the Court of Probate for the County of Worcester, do hereby certify, that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court, that Rhoda Potter was a Pensioner of the United States at the rate of ; was a resident of the County of Worcester in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and died in North Brookfield, in said County in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty-three on the eleventh day of May ; that she left four children, to wit: Benjamin J. Potter, Rhoda Brown, Luther Potter and Batsey Jenks - and it is the wish of the said Batsey Jenks (and she makes affidavit that she has no doubt that it is the wish of her other children) that the Executor of the Will of said deceased, receive the annuity of the said deceased Pension. I further certify, that John C. Potter of Boston, in the County of Suffolk, is the Executor of the Will of said Rhoda Potter deceased.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said Court at Worcester, this fourth day of September, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty-three.
Chas. G. Prentiss, Register.

No Rhoda Potvin died widow of John Nap on 3 March 1845

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
County of Suffolk ss.
On this sixteenth  eighteenth day of December  March eighteen hundred and forty- six . Personally appeared before me L. M. Stone a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Suffolk. John C. Potter a resident of Boston in said County, who being of lawful age, doth on his oath make the following Declaration in order to obtain the amount of pension due to Rhoda Potter of Brookfield deceased widow of Lieut. John Potter of said Brookfield in the County of Wor- -cester State aforesaid. That the said Rhoda Potter received received a Pension under the Law of Congress, June 7 th 1838, at the rate of one hundred and sixteen dollars, forty four cents per annum, and that she died in said town of Brook- field on the eleventh day of May, eighteen hundred and forty- three, and as she never previous to her decease, made a claim for the benefits of the Act of Congress passed March 3 d 1843, he hereby as Executor of her last will and estate, claims the amount of pension which was her due at the day of her decease agreeable to said Act of March 3 d 1843, for and in behalf of the children of the said Rhoda, whose names are, Benjamin F. Potter, Rhoda Brown, Luther Potter, and Betsey Jenkins. That the said Rhoda received her Pension at the agency for paying Pensions at Boston in the State of Massachusetts. That her husband the aforesaid John Potter was Pay Master in the Regiment of Col. Woods, and further he saith not. John C. Potter Executor
Sworn to and subscribed by said John C. Potter on the day and year first above written. - (the dates first altered by me) Before me, L. M. Stone J. Peace.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office Boston March 19 th 1846
I hereby Certify, That at the date of the annexed attestation Lowell A. Stone was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Suffolk,
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and constituted; and that to his acts and attestations, as such, full faith and credit are and ought to be given, in and out of Court.
In Testimony whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
John D. Sleeper, Secretary of the Commonwealth.