Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 15227, for Samuel Rawson, Massachusetts

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass.
Rawson, Samuel Nelly
N. 15227.
CONTENTS

1589 Masachusetts Molly Rawson widow of Samuel Rawson who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a private
Entered from Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 91 Dollars 17 1/2 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
7th of July 1831 Certificate of Pension issued the 28th day of Aug 1831 and sent to
Tramans Branch Pittsfield Mass
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 9, 1848, Page 128 Vol. 2
Dickins & Combs July 9. 1852 R Rawson 29 Aug 43 " " 12 Sep " Same 28 " 54

20.073
Massachusetts.
Samuel Rawson
of Franklin Co. in the State of Massachusetts who was a private in the company commanded by Captain Ponds — of the Regiment commanded by Colonel S. Reed in the Massachusetts line, for the term of one year from January 1776 to 1777
Inscribed on the roll of Massachusetts at the rate of Eight Dollars per month, to commence on the 22 d day of Dec. 1829
Certificate of Pension issued the 24 th of December 1829 and sent to Hon. S. Greene Esq. House of Reps.
Arrears to 4th of March 1829. $ 19.61 Semi-annual all'ce ending
$ 19.61
{ Revolutionary Claim, Acts March 18, 1818, and May 1, 1820. }
Rec: Book D. Vol 2 fol. 78

Schoodraft Sept 16. 1887
Mr Col. Sir I must trouble you once more on the subjects of Rear Vice of Samuel Hanson I left a full discription of the case with births and names numbers of three children which he said was necessary on the account of the Law being altered so often with the giddings of Hallam and he got offended with me so I said but that is immaterial I have a Rich Brother that lives on the Prairie and I under stand that he has got some thing therefor I wish to make the enquire whether there has been any given to Mr giddings if  and he thought there was some and so do others now Sir lest I worry you Rent's will come to a close I wish to take time and again sincerely

The last and if you find anything I should like it well I will now give you their Record of the Children there are five now a living three in Michigan & 2 in Mass
Died 1 Rebekah 13 Sept 30, 1885 2 Susanna 13 March 14, 1887 Died Sumner 13 Jan. 19, 1889 Oliver 13 Nov 5, 1890 Paul 13 Dec. 11, 1892 Sophia 13 Dec. 9, 1894 Eliza, jun. 13 March 13, 1898 Died Samuel 13 June 13, 1800
I believe as gave you the account of the Old folks, lives and Deaths now Sir if you wish for any information discreet from their just inform me and you shall have it I hope you will do as you would be done by Mr Brother & and the Esq are great friends at this time for things yours & c. Abiel Hawson

I Rebekah Goss of Montague in the County of Franklin and State of Massachusetts of lawful age depose and say that I am a daughter of the late Samuel Rawson deceased, and was present at the time of his death which took place on the twenty fifth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty one. He left a widow Molly Rawson, who is my mother, and she is now living and has not married since the death of my said father. Rebekah Goss
State of Massachusetts } County of Franklin }
Greenfield Aug 28- 1838
Personally appeared Rebekah Goss, above named and made solemn oath, that the foregoing deposition by her subscribed is true, before me, and I certify that the said Rebekah Goss is a credible witness. Almon Brainard Just. of the Peace.
I certify that Almon Brainard is a justice of the peace for the county aforesaid & his signature above is genuine Aug 28. 1838 Go Gurnell Jr. M.C.

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 June 23-1785
follows June 23-1785 Attest Daniel Carpenter Clerk of the town of Uxbridge
Learn before me Francis Scarp. Justice of the Peace.
We certify that the abovenamed James Cookston is a credible witness - Francis Scanepp Justice of the Peace
I certify that Francis Greene Jr. is a Justice of the Peace in the County of Worcester in the State of Massachusetts and within my Congressional District, duly commissioned and qualified to act as such, and that his signatures above made are genuine Wm. L. Hastings M.C.

20732 Samuel Rawson Schedule
pen: to com: 22 d . Dec. 1829
Hon. G. Grennell, junr. H.R. Dec. 22. 1829

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
COUNTY OF FRANKLIN ss.
ON this 10th day of September 182 8 , personally appeared in open court, before the Supreme Judicial Court being a court of record for the county of Franklin, established as such by the Constitution and Laws of said Commonwealth. Samuel Rawson resident in said county, aged Eighty two years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth, on his oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the provision made by the acts of Congress, of the 18th March, 1818, and the 1st May, 1820, that he, the said Samuel Rawson enlisted for the term of one year on the first day of January in the year 1796 in the state of Massachusetts in the company commanded by captain Blond in the regiment commanded by colonel Joseph Reed in the line of the state of Massachusetts on the continental establishment; that he continued to serve in the said corps until the expiration of the said year when he was discharged from the said service, in the state of New Jersey that his name has never been placed on the pension list  never been placed on the pension list
And, in pursuance of the act of the 1st of May, 1820, I do solemnly swear, that I was a resident citizen of the United States, on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, since that time, by gift, sale, or in any manner, disposed of my property, or any part thereof, with intent thereby so to diminish it as to bring myself within the provisions of an act of Congress, entitled "An act to provide for certain persons engaged in the land and naval service of the United States, in the Revolutionary war," passed on the 18th day of March, 1818; and that I have not, nor has any person in trust for me, any property, or securities, contracts, or debts, due to me; nor have I any income other than what is contained in the schedule hereto annexed, and by me subscribed. That, since the exhibition of my first schedule, the following changes have been made in my property viz.
The reason why I have not made a previous application is being unwilling to be a burden to my Country so long as I was able to support myself with my personal labour being now from age and infirmity unable to labour much I make this application. In March 1818 I was in possession of a small personal Estate amounting from two hundred to two hundred and fifty dollars, which I have expended for the necessary support of myself and family, excepting a part of which I have lost by bad notes, I have since March 1818 purchased a piece of land for which I engaged to pay about two hundred and fifty dollars, but being unable to pay for said land, I was obliged to relinquish the same five or six years ago
Samuel Rawson
Sworn to, and declared, on the Tenth day September 182 8 before the E. Alvord Clerk
I, Elijah Alvord Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court do hereby certify, that it appears, to the satisfaction of the Court, that the said Samuel Rawson did serve in the Revolutionary War, as stated in the preceding declaration, against the common enemy, for the term of nine months, under one engagement, on the continental establishment. I also certify, that the foregoing oath, and the schedule thereto annexed, are truly copied from the record of the said court; and I do further certify, that it is the opinion of the said court, that the total amount in value of the property exhibited in the aforesaid schedule is forty one dollars and sixty four cents.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said court, on this tenth day of September 182 8  E. Alvord Clerk of the Court of the Supreme Judicial Court for the County of Franklin .

An Inventory of the Personal Property of Samuel Rawson
  One Bed bedstead & Bedding 10 00   One do do 6 00   One do do 5 00   One Chest 50   One Case Drawers 3 00   Eight Chains 1 33   One Table 25   One Looking Glass 50   One Doz Earthen Plates 50   1/2 doz Bowls 36   Cups & Saucers 25   1/2 doz Pewter Plates 75   2 Pewter Platters 75   One warming Pan 1 50   One small full Iron ware Pot 1 00   One Small Dish Kettle 50   One Skillet & one Iron Basin 60   One pair Andiron Slices & Tongs 1 00   One Wasp Kettle 3 50   One small do 75   Two Spinning Wheels 2 00   One Clocks Reel 75   One Lanthorn 35   Two milk pans 40   Two Earthen do 20 
Montague August 12th 1828
$41.64 3/4
Samuel Rawson Jonathan Munsell Jeremiah Pratt
Franklin's August 12 1828 then the above named Jonathan Munsell Jeremiah Pratt personally appeared and made solemn oath, the above inventory by them subscribed containing all the property of which the said Samuel Rawson is possessed, so far as had come to their knowledge before me Jonathan Hartwell Justice of the peace

1386 21169 Molly Rawson
Declaration
Mass.
at 7 July 38
m. 85. d. 31.
comd 12 mo pri
40 $
no deduction
Rev. Geo. Grennell Jr.
Hudson Brainerd City for Belmont Greenfield Mass.

State of Massachusetts } County of Franklin } ss
On this twenty eight day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty eight personally appeared in open court before the Hon. Richard E. Newcomb Judge of the Court of Probate in and for the County of Franklin aforesaid. Molly Rawson, a resident of Montague in the County of Franklin aforesaid aged eighty years, who being duly sworn according to law, doth, on her oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefit of the provision, made by the act of Congress passed July 7 th 1838 entitled "An act granting half-pay and pension to certain widows"
That she is the widow of Samuel Rawson, who was a private soldier in the Massachusetts line of the Revolutionary Army. That her said husband, Samuel Rawson, was put upon the Pension Roll under the act of Congress passed March 18 th 1818. and for the proof of his services. She refers the department to the papers on file in the War department. He was put upon the Pension Roll aforesaid December 31 st 1829-
She further declares that she was married to the said Samuel Rawson on the twenty third day of June in the year seventeen hundred and eighty five; That her husband the aforesaid Samuel Rawson, died on the twenty fifth day of February in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and thirty one; That she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place previous to the first of January seventeen hundred and ninety four, viz, at the time above stated.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year above written, before
Molly Rawson
R. E. Newcomb Judge of Probate

And the said Judge of Probate doth hereby declare his opinion, after the investigation of the matter, that the within named Samuel Rawson was a soldier in the army of the Revolution and as such received a pension as stated in the within declaration - that the within named Applicant was married to the said Samuel as within declared - that the said Samuel died on the twenty fifth day of February 1831 - and that the said Applicant has ever since remained a widow.
R. E. Newcomb Judge of Probate
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Franklin ss,
I Elijah Alvord, Register of Probate for said county of Franklin do hereby certify, that Richard E. Newcomb Esq. is the Judge of Probate in and for said county - and that the within and above signatures purporting to be his were made by him in my presence, and are genuine.
In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and affix the seal of the Probate Court for said county this third day of October A.D. 1838 E. Alvord, Reg. Prob.

✓ Schuylkill meet Aug 5. 1853
Rev Rawson
Rel. to the backpension on Bonds Com of the Father Samuel Rawson Respectfully referred with Dept of the Interior - Board of Aug 16/53
Aug 29 Aug
✓ Respectfully referred to the Comm. of Pensions Dept. Int. (C) Aug 17/53 Ex. R. V. Whiting Clerk
Cole
Philadelphia Aug 1853

Schoharie Mihegan
August 5 1852
Mr. Farris Sir
I hardly know how to address you on the subject which I am a but to enter but Sir I hope that I shall make Palanea enough to be understood by you and if I have bin correctley informed and if I am not I hope Sir you will inform me My Father commenced Drawing a Pension in 1826 and I drew it up to his Deat which happend in 1831. then his Wife Mary Hanson Drawed it Up to her Deat which happend in 1851 and it is a fact Sir that My Father did not draw any Pension back of that date 1826 nor my Mother neither did either draw any Land and therefore I as there Son Paul Hanson do enter my Claimes for the Pension Money Due back of 1826 or the time that he commenced drawing it and the one hundred & sixty Acres of land all of which I do consider my just Due I should have entered my Claimes before but I thought I heard them in to a Democratic Man than a Whig for they had all the demands that they could answer if you wish for more or better Proof send me a line and you shall have it
yours & Paul Hanson

Rev  WIDOW, &c.
File No.
15227
Molly Rawson
Widow of
Samuel Rawson
Priv. Rev. War
Act: Feb. 2 nd 1848
Index:—Vol. M , Page 149
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Massachusetts— 1386
Molly Rawson, widow of Samuel Rawson, dec'd.
who was a pensioner under the Act of 18 Mar. 1818 and who died on the 25 th February, 1831. of Franklin in the State of Mass'ts, who was a private in the company commanded by Captain Pond of the Reg't commanded by Col. J. Reed in the Mass'ts line for 1 year private.
Inscribed on the Roll of Massachusetts at the rate of 40 Dollars — Cents per annum. to commence on the 14th day of March, 1834
Certificate of Pension issued the 14 th day of De- cember, 1838 and sent to Hon. Geo. Grennell, Jr. H. R.
Arrears to the 14th of Sept. 1838 $108:00 Semi-annual allowance ending 20:00
$120:00
{ Act July 7, } 1838. }
Recorded by S. A. - Ellich, Clerk Book A, Vol. 1, Page 126.

Reported
1589 Massachusetts Molly Rawson widow of Samuel Rawson who served in the Revolutionary war, as a private
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 40 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 30 day of August 1848 and sent to
J. B. Belfinch Boston Mass.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 2, 1848, Page 128 Vol. 2 ,

Dep. M. 2
Massachusetts 3831
Molly Rawson widow of Samuel Rawson who was a Private in the Massachusetts line for 1 year
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 40 Dollars Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 13 th day of December 1843 and sent to A. Trainard Greenfield Mass
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
Recorded in Book A Vol. 1 Page 52

Oct 31/57
Nelly Rawson widow of Saml. Maine
Oct 31-
Triplet
Dickins & Coombs 31 Oct 1881

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston, October 14 th 1851
W hereby C ertify. That at the date of the annexed attestation, Elphalet S. Darling was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Franklin,
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and qualified; 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.
Nathaniel D. Sleeper Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Franklin ss. On this 9 th day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & fifty one, personally appeared before the subscribers a Justice of the Peace in and for said County, Molly Rawson a resident of Grafton in said County aged ninety three years who upon oath makes the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the acts of July 7, 1838, March 3 d 1843, June 19, 1844 & February 2 d 1848.
And this declarant states that she is the widow of Samuel Rawson late of Montague  here in said County deceased, that her said husband was a soldier of the Revolution and a pensioner of the United States under the act of 1818 at the rate of ninety six dollars per annum and that he died on the 27 th of February 1831. She states that after the death of her husband she made a claim for a pension and w was placed on the Pension Roll of Widows Pensioners at the rate of forty dollars per annum which amount she has received under the several acts aforesaid, and she has been recently admitted to the further benefit of the Joint Resolution of July 1, 1848 and is now on the Pension Roll at the rate of $96 per annum the same that her husband rec d under the act of 1818.
This declarant has ever understood that her late husband was in the service in the war

of the Revolution several years, but she can remem- ber only the name of Col Reuel and she has heard her husband say that he was employed by the said Col and did his writing for him. She be- lieves that this was the years service for which she was allowed a pension at the rate of $40 per annum and that the other service performed by her husband a part of which is given in the certificate annexed was not considered in the computation of her pension. She therefore refers the Commr to the declaration of her said husband and to her former declaration for proof of Marriage and claims an increase of Pension under exist- ing laws from March 11 1836 to 1. July 1843
Witness
her
E. S. Darling
Molly
X Rawson
Martha A. Fairbridge
Mark
Then personally appeared on the day and year first above written Molly Rawson whom I know to be the identical person she represents herself to be and made oath to the truth of the forego- ing declaration by her signature.
Before me
E. S. Darling
Just: Peace

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston :
September 29 1851.
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 Samuel Rawson is borne on a payroll of Capt. Isaac Martins Co. Col. Whitney's Regt. as private, at R.I. from May 11. 1777. 2 mos. 14 days.
On a payroll of Capt. Reuben Sibleys Co. Col. Whitney's Regt. at R.I. from July 30. 1778. as private 1 mo. 16 d. His name is not found on rolls of Col. Reed's Regt.

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 within my knowledge, pertaining to the case.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto affixed the Seal of the Commonwealth, the date above written.
Edward H. Smith Secretary of the Commonwealth.

To the Secretary of State Massachusetts. Molly Rawson widow and now a pensioner of the United States at the rate of forty dollars per annum respectfully requests the Secretary of State of Massachusetts to give a certificate of the Revolutionary services of her late husband Samuel Rawson deceased.
And this applicant States that her late husband Samuel Rawson was a resident of Uxbridge Mass in the time of the Revolutionary War, that he was a soldier on the Continental establishment, and served four or five years in the whole, a part of the time he was in Col. Reeds Regiment. She believes that her husband entered the service at the commencement of the War and was in the eight months service of 1775. She is unable to specify the names of any other officers under whom he served, nor can she state whether all his service was in the Continental Army after 1775, or not. She requests all the evidence of service that can be found on the Rolls, and for the purpose of this application I hereby appoint Freeman Bradford of Portland my Attorney in the premises. Witness G. H. Harmon      Molly her Rawson mark

Franklin ss: Signed and acknowledged for the purposes above named this 10th day of September A.D. 1851.
Before me E. H. Darling Justice of the Peace }
4703.

Due to S up to S up 6/10 for dinner, coming 1 July 1848
Freeman Bradford Portland Maine

Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Franklin ss:
On the 29th day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty one, personally appeared before the subscriber a Justice of the Peace in and for the County and State aforesaid Molly Rawson a resident of Gill in said County aged ninety three years, who upon her oath makes the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the joint resolution of July 1st 1848.
And this declarant states that she is the widow of Samuel Rawson late of Gill in said County deceased; that her said husband was a pensioner of the United States that he received a pension at the rate of nine ty six dollars per annum and died on the 27th of February 1831. That after the death of her said husband she was placed on the pension Roll at the rate of forty dollars per annum as will appear by the certificate here- with surrendered. She refers to the original declaration made by her for proof in this her claim. witness Samuel & Barents Molly her Rawson mark
Then personally appeared on the day and

year first above written Molly Rawson whom I know to be the identical person she represents herself to be and made oath to the truth of the foregoing de- claration by her signed.
Before me Samuel S. Bartlett Justice of Peace
Samuel S. Bartlett

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Franklin, ss.
I, HENRY CHAPMAN, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Franklin , do certify, that Daniel D. Boardwell Esquire, whose signature is affixed to the Certificate on the paper hereto annexed, was at the date thereof, one of the Justices of the Peace, within and for said County, duly commissioned, and acting under the authority of this Commonwealth; and that full faith and credit is and ought to be given to his acts and attestations done in that capacity; and that I am acquainted with the hand-writing of the said Daniel D. Boardwell , and believe his signature to said Certificate is genuine.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Seal of the Supreme Judicial Court , for said Commonwealth, this 30th day of July , in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifty one.
H. Chapman , Clerk.

M. Rawson
$140 per an
3831
52
A. Brainard, Greenfield, Mass.

Grenfell Sept. 13 - 1843
Hon. J. L. Edwards Count. of Pen. te
Sir Enclosed is the declaration of Molly Rawson of Montague in the County of Franklin Mop- She desires that her certificate may be forwarded to me or her atty.
I am very respectfully A. Brainerd
P.S.
I forwarded some time ago. the declarations of Arabah Davis, Dolly Hastings, Eunice Scott Hannah Clark & Rebeckah Slater. I should be glad to have their declarations examined as soon as convenient for the Department as the 1 st of Sept. has come & the applicants are desirous of availing themselves of their annuity if their claims are allowed.
Yours
A. Brainerd

Thomas Durkee Affidavit

Thomas Duerke of Montague in the County of Franklin and Commonwealth of Massachusetts of lawful age do testify and say, that the title Farm formerly owned by Samuel Rowson, situated in said Montague about a mile from my dwelling House in said Montague, conveyed by said Samuel Rowson to one Elias Rowson The said Farm according to my best judgment and understanding is not worth more than two hundred and fifty dollars. I have lived for many years near said Samuel Rowson and have had good opportunity to be acquainted with his pecuniary circumstances and for the best information I have on that subject I am con- fident that for eleven years last past, said Rowson has not been worth at any one time free from debt more than two hundred and fifty dollars and further none your deponent saith not.
Tho. Duerke
Franklin ss. July 16th 1829 Then personally appeared the above named Thomas Duerke and made solemn oath to the truth of the above disposition before me Jonathan Hartwell Justice of the Peace
I do further certify that the above named Thomas Duerke is a man of truth and veracity and that he is a disinterested Witness.
Jonathan Hartwell Justice of the Peace Montague July 16th 1829

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Franklin ss.
I Elijah Wood, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the said Commonwealth, holden within and for the said county of Franklin, do certify that that the within named Jonathan Hartwell Esq is a Justice of the Peace, within and for said county, duly commissioned and qualified to act as such; and that his signature to the within caption is in his own proper hand writing.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said county, this eighteen day of august in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight hundred and twenty nine.

Brief in the case of Molly Rawson, widow of Samuel Rawson, Franklin County and State of Massachusetts act 2 February 1848
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?
Husband was a pensioner at $96 per annum, Under the Joint Resolution of July 1, 1848. the widow is entitled to the same amount per annum.
Admitted at $96 per annum, deducting former payments at $40 per annum, com- mencing 1 July 1848
Name and residence of Agent.
J. Bradford Portland Me.
J. Cole Examining Clerk.

U. Ransom Payment to be made at Boston by
Franklin Haven Esq. Agent for paying Pensioners, in the Agency of Massachusetts
Payable on the 4th September and 4th March
Recorded in the Pension Office on the Roll of Pensioners under act February 2d, 1848, Page 128 Vol. 2.
G. H. King Clerk.

WAR DEPARTMENT.
WIDOW'S PENSION.
I certify that in conformity with the act of February 2d, 1848, Molly Rawson widow of Samuel Rawson who was a private in the revolutionary war, is inscribed on the pension list at the rate of forty dollars and cents per annum, commencing on the 4th of March, 1848, and continuing for life, unless she should again marry; in which case the Pension is not payable after the time of such marriage.
Given at the War Office of the United States this 30th day of August one thousand eight hundred and forty eight.
W. E. Marcy
Secretary of War.
Examined and Countersigned.
J. S. Edwards Commissioner of Pensions. By H. S. Evans

Edinburgh August 22 1850
Mr. Waldo Sir I direct a few lines to you to enquire of you whether the Pension Money Bank of the Government of Samuel Rawson commencing to draw which I think was about 1826 was ever called for And if it was By Whom and What date was it called also the bounty bond I want all of the Information respecting all of that matter for I am the Son of Samuel Rawson and I have never heard or known of there being any Application being made for it by any Daddy nor my Brother does not either But Sir if it is not drawn I should like to know a Proper way to get it Be so good as to give me the said information and Oblige Yours Hul Rawson
To the Commissioner of Pensions
Sir be so good as to forward me an answer as quick as convenient

Portland Aug 18, 1851
Sir
Enclosed is the claim of Molly Rawson widow of Samuel Rawson who claims an increased rate of Pension under the joint Resolution of July 1, 1848. It is desirable that the claim should be examined as soon as practicable
I am Very Respectfully
Your Obt: Servt:
Freeman Bradford
James E. Heath Esq Commr of Pensions Washington D.C.

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston, October 14 th 1851
I Hereby Certify , That at the date of the annexed attestation Eliphalet S. Darling was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Franklin.
in the said Commonwealth, duly commissioned and qualified; 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.
Lucius Waldo Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Nov 1851 Eliphalet S. Darling
Milly Rowson Oct 14 1851

I know all men by these presents that I Molly Rawson of Gile in the County of Franklin Mass: a Revolutionary Pensioner of the United States, do hereby constitute and appoint Freeman Bradford of Portland Maine & Francis A. Dicksin of Washington D.C. my true and lawful Attorneys and in my name they or either of them are authorized to call for the the declaration of my late husband Samuel Rawson under the act of 1818 and when shown to them or either of them to examine the same in order to see if there be any proof therein or therewith to substantiate my claim to a further pension under the acts of 1838 1843, 1844 and 1848. and my Attorneys are authorized to do such other acts and things as are necessary to be done in the premises either jointly or severally.
Hereby ratifying and confirming whatever my Attorneys or either of them may do in the premises. Signed sealed and delivered
in presence of Molly her Rawson Mark E. S. Darling Martha A. Partridge
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Franklin ss. October 9 th 1851 Then personally appeared the above named Molly Rawson and acknowledged the foregoing power of Attorney by her signed to be her free act and deed.
Before me E. S. Darling Just Peace

admitted
G. S. Bulfinch Boston Mass
108
no
M. Mason

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Boston August 12 1848
I hereby Certify, That at the date of the annexed attestation Jonathan Hartwell was a justice of the Peace for the County of Franklin,
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.
M. Hall
Secretary of the Commonwealth.

DECLARATION
In order to obtain the benefits of the act of Congress of 2d February, 1848, entitled, "An act making further provision for surviving Widows and Soldiers of the Revolution."
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, } ss. Franklin COUNTY, }
On this Fifth day of August 1848, personally appeared before the subscriber, a Justice of the Peace, in and for the county aforesaid, Molly Rawson, lately of Gill, but now a resident of Montague in the county of Franklin aforesaid aged Ninety years, who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on her oath, make the following declaration, in order to obtain the benefits of the provision made by the act of Congress, passed on the 2d February, 1848, granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary war. That she is the widow of Samuel Rawson who was a resident of Montague and who was a private in the War of the Revolution and is the identical person who drew a pension under the Act of 17th June, 1844, on account of the Revolutionary service of her late husband aforesaid, at the rate of forty dollars and cents per annum.
She further declares that she is still a widow.
Molly Rawson
Sworn to and subscribed on the day } Before me, and year above written, }
In presence of Olivia Lawrence  Jonathan Bartlett Justice of the Peace.
* Certify, That the declarant is personally known to me, a widow and a pensioner, as she declares.
Jonathan Bartlett Justice of the Peace.
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, } ss. COUNTY, }
X. Clerk of the Court, of the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that is a Justice of the Peace, in and for said County, duly qualified; and that his signature, above written, is genuine.
and the Seal of said Court, this
CLERK.

State of Massachusetts } ss. Franklin County }
On this fourth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty three, personally appeared before the Subscriber, Dore of the justice of the Peace in and for said County of Franklin Molly Hanson A resident of Montague in said County of Franklin Age eighty five years who being first sworn according to law, doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the pension issued by the act of Congress passed on the 3 rd March 1843, granting pensions to Widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War. That she is the Widow of Samuel Hanson who was a private in the Army of the Revolution, & served in Col. Weymouth , that she received a pension under the act of Congress passed July 7 th 1838 at the rate of forty dollars per annum. She further more declares she is still a widow.
Sworn to and subscribed on / Molly Hanson the day and year above written
Before Me - Dael Lyons - justice of the peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Franklin County ss. September 9 th - 1843
I Dael Lyons - A justice of the Peace in and for said County do hereby certify that Molly Hanson - who has this day subscribed and made oath to the above declaration is personally known to me and is the identical person who was pensioned under the act of Congress of July 7 th 1838 and who certificate was numbered 1386 and dated December 14, 1838.
Dael Lyons - justice of the peace

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
FRANKLIN SS.
I, Henry Chapman, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the Commonwealth, for the County of Franklin, do certify, that Neil Lyons , Esquire, whose signature is affixed to the certificate on the paper hereto annexed, was at the date thereof, one of the Justices of the Peace, within and for said County, duly commissioned, and acting under the authority of this Commonwealth; and that full faith and credit is and ought to be given to his acts and attestations done in that capacity; and that I am acquainted with the handwriting of the said Neil Lyons and believe his signature to said certificate. is genuine
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the Supreme Judicial Court for said Commonwealth, this thirteenth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty three . H. Chapman Clerk.

Samuel Stratton and Maria T. Benjamin Affidavits

I Samuel Stotten of Gile in the county of Franklin & Commonwealth of Massachusetts of lawful age do testify & say. that I am well acquainted with Samuel Rawson of Montague in said county and that he has been obliged to sell all his real estate as well as personal, excepting some few old articles of household furniture of but little worth, for the support of himself and an aged wife & an idiot son. who has been so from his cradle and will probably remain so to his bapting & for the payment of his post bills.
Samuel Stotten.
Franklin ss. Gile June 17th 1829 - Personally appeared the above named Samuel Stotten and made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition by him subscribed before me
Isaac Lyons justice of the peace
I certify that I am personally acquainted with the deponent herein and to wit Samuel Stotten. that he is a man of truth and veracity & that he is desirous that full faith & confidence may be given to his testimony.
Isaac Lyons justice of the peace
Gile June 17th 1829

I, Clarence T. Benjamin of Ennis Grant in the county of Franklin & Commonwealth of Mass. with of lawful age do hereby say that I am well acquainted with Samuel Rawson of Montague in the county of Franklin & that he the said Rawson has been obliged to sell his property both real & personal. A few of the shares of household furni- ture of but little value & stock for the payment of his just debts, the support of himself and his wife together with an idiot son of twenty nine years of age who has been so from his birth Clarence T. Benjamin
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Franklin ss. Give June 17th 1829. Personally appeared the above named Clarence T. Benjamin. Who is a disinterested person of undoubted truth. I hereby make solemn oath to the above deposition by him subscribed.
Before me last years justice of the peace Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Franklin ss clerk's office Greenfield. June 19. 1829
I Elijah Alvord, clerk of the Judicial courts held within and for the said county do certify that the deposition of Samuel Rawson before whom the two affidavits hereto annexed purport to have been verified is a justice of the peace duly commissioned & qualified under the authority of this Commonwealth; and that the certificates of the caption of the said depositions are made and subscribed in his proper hand and writing.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of our court of common pleas, the day above mentioned E. Alvord

I Joel Pierce of Montague in the county of Franklin and Commonwealth of Massachusetts of Lawful age do testify and say that I have lived within a half a mile of Samuel Rowson of said Montague about thirteen years past and am well acquainted with the same said Samuel Rowson has conveyed to one Elias Rowson I sold said land to said Samuel Rowson and for two hundred dollars and received of Samuel Rowson one hundred and fifty dollars before he the said Samuel conveyed said land to Elias Rowson and afterwards I received of said Samuel ninety five dollars in full payment, and I am of opinion that said farm is not worth more than two hundred and fifty dollars. I am well acquainted with the circumstances of said Samuel Rowson and I do not consider him to be worth the one half enough to pay his just debts, after I sold said land to the said Samuel Rowson he rented a house on the same with the gratuitous assistance of his neighbors said Samuel Rowson has a wife and I do not know about twenty nine years of age - having been sick from his birth to last frost.

and it have no doubt from my acquaintance with the circumstances of said Rowson but that all the money I received of him in the said Samuel Rowson of said Elias Rowson in full consideration of said Form. and further more your deponent saith not And Pierce
Franklin ss. July 1 th 1829. Then personally appeared the above named Joel Pierce and made solemn oath to the truth of the above deposition before me and I do further certify that said Pierce is a credible and disinterested
Witness Jonathan Hartwell Justice of the Peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Franklin ss. I Elijah Alvord, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of the said Commonwealth holden within and for the said county of Franklin do certify that the above named Jonathan Hartwell Esq is a Justice of the Peace, within and for said county duly commissioned and qualified to act as such; and that his signature to the above certificate is in his own proper hand writing.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said county this eighteenth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty nine
E. Alvord Clerk

Schadecraft Sept 3, 1853
Sir yours of 29 was recd without the information I required and I will inform you that Samuel Hanson & wife lived in Massachusetts at the time they were pensioned and ever after until their death and in what was called Crown grant, Montague & Gill and Sir if there are any further information required Please inform me and you shall have it. I do think that the back pension is not drawn as as I can learn, but if it is I want all of the information on the drawing of it, if not I should wish to be informed.
Yours in friendship Nels Hanson
S Cole age Admrs Commishrs Washington DC

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Franklin ss. On the 19 th day of November A. D. 1829, personally appeared before me the subscriber a justice of the peace, within & for said county of Franklin, Samuel Rawson of Montague, in said county the present applicant for a pension, who on his oath declares, that that a considerable proportion of the personal property of which he was possessed in March 1818, consisted in notes of hand, which have proved of no value to him. Viz. four several notes of hand signed by Joseph Metcalf, amounting to seventy five dollars and fifty seven cents, on the 18 th of March 1818, and that the said Metcalf died completely insolvent, and that said applicant has received no benefit from said notes, and that the said applicant became bail for one Apollo Rawson, who absconded, and that in consequence thereof, he found was compelled to pay about the sum of sixty dollars, to one Brother Graves, which two sums amount to about one hundred and thirty six dollars, and that the remainder of said personal property he has insensibly expended from time to time for the necessary support of himself and family, and that he is now unable to state explicitly , when, and for what particular purpose, the same was expended; but that it is all gone excepting the amount contained in the schedule annexed to his said declaration.
He further says, that the farm mentioned in his declaration, he has never paid for, and in consequence of his failing to pay for the same, he was compelled to abandon it  convey it to some years ago as stated in the accompanying affidavit of Blair Rawson, so that he has never in fact been possessed of more property, than the amounts of personal property mentioned in his said declaration, since the 18 th of March 1818.
Samuel Rawson
Subscribed and sworn to before me the day and year aforesaid
William Whitaker, justice of the peace

I hereby certify, that the said Samuel Rawson, exhibited to me the said notes of the said Joseph Metcalf, and that I am well acquainted with the hand writing of the said Metcalf, and the signature to said notes appears to me to be the hand writing of the said Metcalf, and that the said Metcalf died a pauper.
William Whitaker, justice of the peace.
Washington } Dist. Columbia } J. J. —
I George Greenell Esq of Greenfield in the County of Franklin and State of Massachusetts and a Representative from said State in the Congress of the U States, hereby certify that the above named William Whitaker Esq is a justice of the peace within and for the said County duly commissioned and qualified to act as such & that his signature to the within caption is in his own proper hand writing — I further certify that I am well acquainted with the said William and that he is a man of truth;
Given under my hand this 21 day of December A. D. 1829
Geo. Greenell
Samuel Rawson's Affidavit

Elias Rawson's Affidavit

I Elias Rawson of Mendon in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth of Massachusetts of lawful age do testify and declare, that on the sixteenth day of February A.D. 1834 Samuel Rawson conveyed to me by his deed of that date twenty eight acres of land in Montague in the County of Franklin and Commonwealth aforesaid for the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars, which I considered to be the full value of said Land. - The said sum of two hundred and fifty dollars was paid by me in manner following. In the year 1819 I took up a note made by the said Samuel Rawson, at his request, amounting to thirty five dollars; and subsequently, and before the purchase of said Land by me, I advanced for & loaned to the said Samuel Rawson several sums of money - which with his note aforesaid paid by me, amounted to the sum of one hundred and forty dollars at the time of said conveyance. This sum was deducted from the purchase money, and for the balance (one hundred and ten dollars) I gave my note to the said Samuel Rawson, which has been since paid by me to him, with the exception of thirty five dollars - for which he still holds my note, if he has not transferred it.
The conveyance aforesaid by the said Samuel Rawson to me was an actual, bona fide sale without any reservation, limitation or condition for a full and adequate consideration.
I have made advances to and furnished assistance for the said Samuel Rawson, since said conveyance was made, to a greater amount than the balance of the purchase money, which still remains due on my note, but the same have not yet been settled or accounted for. - And further the deponent

said not. - Elias Rawson
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Worcester ss: Mendon July 20. 1829
Personally appeared the above named Elias Rawson, and subscribed the foregoing affidavit, and made oaths to the truth of the same
Before me
Worcester ss: Mendon July 20. 1829.
(W m S. Hastings) Jus. of the Peace. I hereby certify that the above named Deponent, Elias Rawson, sustains an unimpeachable character for truth and veracity, and that I have known him and his character for many years - W m S. Hastings Jus. of the Peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Worcester ss. I Abijah Bigelow, Clerk of the Judicial Courts of said Commonwealth, holden within and for the said County of Worcester, do certify, that the Hon. William S. Hastings is a Justice of the Peace, within and for said County, duly qualified to act in said Office, and that full faith and credit are, and ought to be given to his acts as such Justice of the Peace, and that his signature to the above certificate is in his own proper hand writing.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto Set my name, and affixed the seal of said County, this twenty fifth day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand, eight hundred and twenty nine.
Abijah Bigelow, (Clerk)

Seth Rawson Joseph Adams & David W. Leland Affidavits

Peace, duly qualified to act in said office, that full faith and credit are and ought to be given to his acts as such justice, and that his signature to the foregoing certificate appears to me to be in his own hand writing.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the county seal of said county, this twelfth day of February A. D. 1827. Elijah Bigelow, Clerk.

I Seth Rawson of Uxbridge in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do testify & say, that I was in the Yrs's service in the year 1776 in the Regiment commanded by Colonel Joseph Read, and was knowing that Samuel Rawson was in the said Yrs's service and was Clerk to the said Col. Joseph Read that Yrs and further the Deposition saith not Seth Rawson
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Worcester ss August 4 th 1820 Personally appeared Seth Rawson and made oath to the truth of the above Deposition by him subscribed Before me Benjamin Adams Justice of the peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Worcester ss. I Abijah Bigelow, Clerk of the Judicial Court of said Commonwealth, for the County of Worcester, do certify, that Benjamin Adams and Jonathan Leland, Esquires, are Justices of the Peace within and for said County of Worcester, duly qualified to act as such, and that full faith and credit are and ought to be given to their acts as such Justices, and that the certificates of said Adams of the oath of Seth Rawson, and of Joseph Adams, and the certificate of said Leland of the oath of David W. Leland appear to be in their own proper hand writing. In testimony whereof I hereunto set my name, and affix the seal of the Court of Common Pleas for said County, this fifth day of August A. D. 1820. Abijah Bigelow (Clerk)

I Joseph Adams of Uxbridge in the County of Worcester & Commonwealth of Massachusetts aged Seventy four years, do testify and say, that I was Surgeon-Mate, in the Regiment Commanded by Colonel Joseph Read in the year one thousand seven hundred & Seventy six and was knowing that Samuel Rawson was in the year's service, and was Clerk to the said Colonel J. Read from the first of that year at Roxbury & Dorchester & continued the Clerk to the said Colonel during the year so long as I was with said Regiment, which I left in the fall of the year 1776 a few days before our Troops evacuated New York by reason of sickness at which time the said Rawson was with the said Read as his Clerk as aforesaid. and further the deponent saith not Joseph Adams
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Worcester ss August 4 th 1820. Personally appeared before me Joseph Adams the subscriber to the above Depo- -sition, and made oath to the truth of the same before me Benjamin Adams Justice of the peace

I David W. Leland of Grafton in the county Worcester, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, aged Seventy years, do testify and say, That I was in the years service of the Massachusetts forces of the Revolutionary army, during the year One Thousand seven hundred and seventy six, and in the company commanded by Capt. Samuel Warren, and in Col n Joseph Reed's Regiment, and was knowing that Samuel Rawson, then from Hobridge, in said county, the person upon whose application I make this deposition, was in the same service, during the same year 1776, and was clerk to the said Col n Joseph Reed. David W. Leland
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Worcester ss. August 14. 1828. Personally appeared David W. Leland, above named, and made oath to the truth of the foregoing deposi- tion, by him subscribed. Before me, Jon a . Leland, Justice of the Peace.
I certify, that I am personally acquainted with the three Deponents aforesaid, to wit, Seth Rawson Joseph Adams & David W. Leland & that they are men of truth & veracity & that full faith & credit may be given to their testimony. Benjamin Adams Justice of the Peace

To all people to whom these presents shall come: GREETING.
KNOW YE, That I Samuel Rawson of Montague in the County of Franklin and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Yeoman
For and in consideration of the sum of Two hundred fifty dollars current money of the Commonwealth aforesaid, to me in hand paid, before the ensealing hereof, by Elias Rawson of Mendon in the County of Worcester and Commonwealth aforesaid Yeoman, the receipt whereof I do hereby acknowledge, and am fully satisfied, contented, and paid; Have given, granted, bargained, sold, aliened, released, conveyed and confirmed, and by these presents, do freely, clearly and absolutely give, grant, bargain, sell, alien, release, convey and confirm unto him the said Elias Rawson his heirs and assigns forever,
A certain piece of land in Montague aforesaid, containing twenty eight acres be it more or less, and is all of a thirty acre lot which Micajah Wemenway and Jeremiah Pratt, conveyed to Josiah Buck-eller by deed dated February 2, 1810, as recorded in Book No. 27 page 328. Excepting two acres which were sold by Joel Pierce to John Powell by deed dated December 23, 1818. Of the southeast end of said lot, said thirty acre lot begins at a pine tree and runs N 29° W. one hundred and sixty rods to a stake and stones, thence N 12° E. thirty one rods and an half to a stake and stones, thence E. 29° S. a half-mile to a poplar, thence S. 12° W. thirty one rods and an half rods to the first mentioned bounds.
To HAVE AND TO HOLD, the before granted premises, with the appurtenances and privileges thereto belonging, to him the said Elias Rawson his heirs and assigns; to his own proper use, benefit and behoof forevermore. And the said Samuel for myself, his heirs, executors, and administrators, do covenant, promise and grant unto, and with the said Elias Rawson his heirs and assigns forever, that before and until the ensealing hereof, I am the true, sole, proper and lawful owner and possessor of the before granted premises, with the appurtenances. And have in me good right, full power and lawful authority to give, grant, bargain, sell, alien, release, convey and confirm the same as aforesaid; and that free and clear, and freely and clearly, executed, acquitted and discharged of and from all former and other gifts, grants, bargains, sales, leases, mortgages, wills, entails, jointures, dowries, thirds, executions and incumbrances whatsoever.
AND FURTHERMORE, the said Samuel Rawson for myself, for my heirs, executors and administrators do hereby covenant, promise and engage the before granted premises, with the appurtenances unto him the said Elias his heirs and assigns forever, to warrant, secure and defend against the lawful claims or demands of any person or persons whatsoever. In witness whereof I the said
Samuel Rawson
have hereunto set my hand and seal this sixteenth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty four
Sam. Rawson & Seal,
Signed, sealed, and delivered, in presence of, Martha Hadwick Jonathan Hadwick

Samuel Rawson to Elias Rawson copy-
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Franklin ss. Clerks office Greenfield May 20. 1829
I Elijah Alvord Clerk of the county of Franklin aforesaid do certify that Hooker Leavitt esquire is the Register of Deeds for said county duly elected and qualified according to the constitution and laws of this Commonwealth, and that full faith and credit is and ought to be given to his acts & attestations as such. I further certify that his attestations following are in his proper hand writing. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said county the day and year aforesaid.
E. Alvord, Clerk
FRANKLIN ss. February 16 th 1824. Then Samuel Rawson the within named, personally appearing, acknowledged the within instrument by him subscribed, to be his free act and deed.
Before me,
Jonathan Hartwell Justice of the Peace.
The foregoing is a true copy of the original Rec d February 17. 1824. Registered and compared by the Leavitt Reg r . A true copy of Record. Attest. Hooker Leavitt Reg r .
FRANKLIN ss. Received Registered in Book No.
Page
182
and compared by
Register.
Franklin ss. Registry of Deeds office February 28. 1829 I hereby certify that I examined the records in this office and do not find that the within named Samuel Rawson is the owner of any real estate. Hooker Leavitt, Reg r .