Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File R. 8717, for Samuel Reynolds, New York

SERVICE
NUMBER
New York
Reynolds, Samuel
R.8717
CONTENTS

No 4.393 Application of Samuel Reynolds of Somerset Kenning for a pension
Forward Certificate to T. A. Hartnell
Witnesseth that the within copy is a true copy of the original as shown to the said Samuel Reynolds on this day, now this day made now at the time which it is the morning of said date.
Somerset Kenning Morgan Clerk of the Peace for said County do hereby certify that William B. Garton Esq. before whom the affidavit of the said Samuel Reynolds on this day, now this day made now at the time which it is the morning of said date.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & Seal this 6th day of March 1833
J. M. Mann M.P. and the S. L. Southard abt 9th 1834 8/11/34

Supplemental Declaration
Several months before the declaration was of the nature of the Court of Common Pleas in New P. County. I was appeared the above named Samuel Ray, who knew by and only knew as he with certainty that he entered service in the month of September 1780 as a volunteer at Farmstead in the County of Orange under Capt. Aiken marched to Farmstead & continued there guarding the shore six weeks (the service was forgotten by me when I made my former statements). The reason of my staying more than a month was that the British shipping was in the River. I don't remember who the Superior officer was. In the year 1781. I again volunteered under Capt. Aiken in the early part of the month of April was again marched to Farmstead & remained out guarding the shore, & watching the Tories, (the latter being more troublesome & doing more at times than the former) until November a period of seven months. The reason of my being out so long, was that my father who was a warm whig & had two other sons in the regular service, might be at home to provide for our family who were quite destitute & protect them against the robberies & depredations of the Tories. In the year 1782. early in the Spring. I again turned out under Capt. Aiken, was marched to Farmstead & remained there & along the shore until fall a period of six months one of our Lieut. was taken a prisoner & carried to New-York. The reason of my continuing out so long in 1782. was the same as above stated in relation to my father, for if I was not out, he would be. My father's family at the time consisted of my father, mother, two sisters & self, & it was thought better to have my father at home than myself. Before the above service I was out

as much as two or three months, at different times, of a week at a time in alarms & standing guard in Hemstead . Where a guard was kept nearly the whole time during the war - It was about 7 or 8 miles from Hempstead . I have resided in Sammamish between forty & fifty years - About three years ago I visited Hemstead my native place. My acquaintances & associates in youth were dead - my brothers I believe are both dead . Both of them left Stam many years ago. My oldest sister died many years ago, & the other was too young to remember of my S. services. I do not know of any person living by whom I can prove my S. services -
Sworn & subscribed the day & year first above written before me A. H. Gaston } Samuel Reynolds
Sammamish Co. Be it known that on this 14 th day of November 1883 personally appeared before me Mrs. Foster. Isaac Southard who being by me duly sworn on his oath saith that he has known the above named Samuel Reynolds & been well acquainted with him for between twenty five & thirty years. That his character for truth & veracity has always stood high in the neighborhood where he has resided. I earnestly believe that full credit may be placed in his declarations.
Sworn & subscribed the day & year first above written before me A. H. Gaston } Isaac Southard
I do hereby certify that Isaac Southard sig. who has sworn to the foregoing is a person of truth and veracity - A. H. Gaston

State of New Jersey I John M. Mason Clerk of the Somerset County I & Superior Court of Common Pleas in and for said County do hereby certify that William B Gaston be as known the foregoing affidavit of Isaac Southard was made and whose pro in signature is subscribed to the said affidavit and accompanying certificate was at the time of the date thereof and still is a Judge of said court in full commission.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court at Bridgewater this sixteenth day of December eighteen hundred and thirty three.
J. M. M.

Declaration In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June 7 th 1832
State of New Jersey } County of Somerset } P.
On this fifteenth day of August personally appeared in open court before the Judges of court of common pleas of said county now sitting Samuel Reynolds a resident of the Township of Bernards in the County of Somerset and State of New Jersey aged sixty nine years who being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed June the 7 th 1832.
I was born the 14 th day of May 1764 in the Township of Hemsted (then) in County of Orange in the State of New York and am now in my sixty ninth year of age - I con- tinued to reside in Hemsted till the year 1791. when I removed to the township of Bernards in the County of Somerset & have resided in said County ever since
I entered the service of the United States under the following named officers & served as hereinafter stated some time in the year of 1780. I please in June I entered the service under the command of Capt Garret Acker of the Militia marched to Hackinsack from there to Tappan and from there to Haverstraw. we were there permitted to return home with orders to hold ourselves in readiness to return home with orders to hold ourselves in readiness to march at a minutes warning - continuing while even at home of taking our turns standing sentry along the Hudson river between Haverstraw & Tappan - The two last years of the revolutionary war I was out on scouting parties & keeping guard nearly all the time under the above named Captain Acker. belonging to Col. Gilbert Cooper command on Regiment. In actual service I was on duty more than one year but have much longer

I am unable to say - as I have no documentary evidence of my service & having left the place where I then resided & performed the service I know of persons now living by whom I can prove it -
I hereby relinquish every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present and declare that my name is not on the Pension Roll of the agency of any State - Sworn & subscribed in open court the day & year aforesaid
Sam l Reynolds
W m H. Waston
We John C. Van Devort clergyman residing in the township of Bernard & Pastor of Presbyterian congregation of Washington & Sam l D. Doty residing in the same place - hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Samuel Reynolds who has subscribed & sworn to the above declaration that we believe him to be then to be in his sixty ninth year of his age that he is respected and beloved in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier of the revolution & that we concur in that opinion -
John C. Van Devort Sam l D. Doty
Sworn and subscribed before me this 10 th day of August 1832
John Brees and the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of Somerset

And the said Court do hereby declare their Opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatories presented by the War Department that the above named affidavit was a revolutionary soldier and served as the states and the court further certifies that it appears to them that John C. van Dorst who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the county of Somerset and that Samuel Doty who signed the same is a resident in the said county and is a credible person and that their statement is entitled to credit
W. H. Gaston
Per d Vanderveer
M. J. Bowen
State of New Jersey Somerset County ss. I John M. Mann Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for said county do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of said Court in the matter of the applica- tion of Samuel Pennock for a pension.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office the Seventeenth day of August in the year of our Lord Eighteen hundred & thirty two.
J. M. Mann

State of New Jersey, Somerset County, ss. Before me William B. Gorton, presiding Judge in said County of Somerset.  Personally appeared Samuel Reynolds the within named applicant and being duly sworn, acknowledged to have deposited and said that he entered the said service as a private and since said duty as a private more than one year that he has no need of his age excepting his father's will, which will is not within the knowledge of applicant. He has no recollection that he was received a written discharge from service if however he did it is lost, in moving from place to place or in some other way. He has none in his possession. Reference is made to the Rev. Henry Southard, the Rev. J. Vandermark, Col. S. S. Doy, John Broom, Esq. & others his neighbors who can testify to his character for veracity. In the year 1781. I served one tour of duty at one time seven months, stationed on the Hudson River on the New Jersey side. In 1782 I served six months in the New Jersey Plan. Col. G. Cooper had the command a considerable part of the time - Capt. Aker was there. The Regiment often changed - Besides the above thirteen months I was out during 5 years, as much as two or three months at a time, as a week at a time, & on alarms - Several times I was absent before and  Wm. Gorton Samuel Reynolds
No 4. 393 Application of Samuel Reynolds of Somerset County for a pension
Forwards Certificate to J. A. Hartshorn
Somerset County ss. May 10th 1833 before me John M. Moore Clerk of the Court of Sessions in and for said County as hereby certify that William B. Gorton, Esq. second when the applicant of the said Samuel Reynolds on this day, now this day since now at the time of this is the proceeding in the cause of said cause. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 10th day of March 1833.  J. M. Moore Clerk in the S. S. Southard at 9: 1834 8/11

Declaration of Sam l . Reynolds
G. W. Young Atty. Present.

State of New Jersey county of Somerset } ss.
Be it known, that before me James Taylor, a justice of the peace in and for the said county personally appeared Samuel Reynolds, who, being duly sworn according to law, doth depose and say, that he is one of the children of Sarah Reynolds, deceased, wid- ow of Samuel Reynolds, deceased, who was a soldier in the War of the Revolution; that he now makes this declara- tion to recover any pension that may be due, on ac- count of the services of Samuel Reynolds as aforesaid, for the benefit of himself and brothers & sisters, to wit John Reynolds, Abraham Reynolds, Benjamin Rey- nolds, Horakiah G. Reynolds, Sarah Reynolds, wife of John Utter, Phebe Reynolds, wife of Ira Conner, & Mary Reynolds, wife of William Smith, under any acts, or resolutions of Congress applicable to the case.
Sworn & subscribed this nineteenth day of April 1853 before me,
James Taylor Justice of the Peace
Samuel Reynolds

Know all men by these presents, That I, Samuel Reynolds, one of the children of Sarah Reynolds, deceased, widow of Samuel Reynolds, (who was a soldier in the war of the Revolution,) do hereby constitute and appoint Robert W. Young, Washington city, D. C. my true and lawful attorney for me, and in my name to prosecute my claim to any increase and arrear of pension that may be found due on account of the services of said Samuel Reynolds, deceased, as aforesaid; and I hereby authorize my said attorney to examine all papers and documents touching my claim, on file in the departments at Washington or elsewhere, and file any additional evidence or arguments he may think proper, to ensure the recovery of the same.
Witness my hand and seal this nineteenth day of April A.D. 1853
Signed sealed & delivered in the presence of
James Taylor Justice of the Peace
State of New Jersey County of Somerset } ss.
Be it known, That on this nineteenth day of April A.D. 1853, to me, the subscriber a justice of the peace in and for the said county, personally appeared Samuel Reynolds, & acknowledged the foregoing power of Attorney to be his act and deed. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand the day & year last above mentioned.
James Taylor Justice of the Peace

State of New Jersey,
County of Somerset, } ss:
Be it known, that on the nine- teenth day of April A.D. 1853, before the subscriber, a jus- tice of the Peace in and for the county aforesaid, personally appeared Samuel McMurtry and Lewis D Sanders two disinterested and respectable witnesses and severally made oath according to law, that they were well acquaint- ed with Sarah Reynolds, deceased, widow of Samuel Rey- nolds, (who was a soldier in Revolutionary war) and that Samuel Reynolds, John Reynolds, Abraham Reynolds, Ben- jamin Reynolds, Hezekiah L. Reynolds, Sarah Reynolds, wife of John Utter, Phebe Reynolds, wife of Ira Connet, and Mary Reynolds, wife of William Smith, are her only surviving children. And that she, the said Sarah, wid- ow as aforesaid, departed this life on or about the first day of April A.D. 1851.
Sworn and subscribed the day & year } Samuel McMurtry last above mentioned before me } Lewis D Sanders
James Taylor Justice of the Peace
I, Henry D. Johnson, clerk of the court of common Pleas in the county of Somerset and state of New Jersey, do hereby certify that James Taylor, before whom the foregoing papers were executed, was at the date of the same a Justice of the Peace in and for said county duly authorized by law to admin- ister oaths; and his name thereunto subscrib- ed is his genuine signature.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand & affixed my official seal this day of April A.D. 1853.

State of New Jersey Summit County. ss
I Henry D. Johnson Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County aforesaid do hereby certify that James Taylor whose genuine signature appears to and before whom the foregoing affidavits were made is and was at the time of signing the same a Justice of the peace duly Commissioned and sworn in and for said County and authorized by law to administer oaths, and that all his official acts as such are entitled to full faith and credit and that the aforesaid Court is a court of record having general jurisdiction and a Common Pleas.
In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the said Court at Bridgewater this twenty ninth day of April 1853
Henry D. Johnson Clerk
Declaration of Sam. Reynolds
R. M. Young Atty. Provost.

Suspended No. Passign Clause of John Reynolds of Somerset County New Jersey, act of June 7 th 1832.
James L. Street, Atty, New Brunswick, New Jersey.

Know all men by these presents, that I, John Reynolds Administrator of Samuel Reynolds deceased, late of the County of Somerset, in the State of New Jersey, who was a revolutionary soldier of the State of New York, and for whom application was made for Pension under the act of June 7 th 1832, which application is now of the suspended files of the Pension office; do hereby constitute and appoint James L. Street, of the City of New Brunswick, in the State of New Jersey, my true and lawful attorney, for me, and in my name, as the administrator, of the estate of the said Samuel Reynolds, deceased as aforesaid, to procure from the Revolutionary records at Albany, in the State of New York, or from whatever source it may be obtained, such additional evidence as may be required, by the Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, to justify him in allowing the Pension in the said suspended claim; and I hereby authorize my said Attorney, to receive from the Hon. Commissioner of Pensions, a certificate, or Draft payable, at the City of New York, for whatever amount may be found to have been due the said Samuel Reynolds, deceased, as aforesaid on the twenty second day of July, A.D. 1839, being the day of his death.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and Seal, this Fifteenth day of February in the year of our Lord, 1855.
Sealed sign John Reynolds Adm in in presence of, Peter L. Street Samuel Reynolds
John Reynolds Administrator of Samuel Reynolds

State of New Jersey County of Somerset ss.
Be it known, That on the fifteenth day of February, A.D. 1855, before me, a Justice of the Peace, in and for the County aforesaid, personally appeared Philip Reynolds, the administrator of the estate of Samuel Reynolds deceased, late of the County of Somerset, in the State of New Jersey, and acknowledged the foregoing power of Attorney, to be his act and deed.
Given under my hand officially this fifteenth day of February, A.D. 1855.
Peter Brine
State of New Jersey Somerset County ss.
I Henry D. Johnson clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in and for the County aforesaid do hereby certify Peter Brine whose genuine signature appears to the foregoing Certificate is and was at the time of signing the same Justice of the Peace duly commissioned and sworn in and for the County of Somerset and State of New Jersey duly author- ized to administer oaths for general purposes and that full faith and credit are due to all his official acts.
I further certify, that said Court is a Court of record having general jurisdiction and a Clerk and Seal.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office at Princeton this Eleventh day of April A.D. 1855
Henry D. Johnson clerk.

June 28, 1934
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Samuel Reynolds-R.8717 BA-J/AWT
Mr. Charles H. Gray Ogunquit Maine
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of Samuel Reynolds, born in the Township of Hempstead, Orange County, New York.
The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, R. 8717, based upon the Revolutionary War service of Samuel Reynolds.
He was born May 14, 1764 in the Township of Hempstead, Orange County, New York. His father was a "warm whig" and was living during the Revolutionary War in Hempstead, New York, as was also his mother and two sisters; names of parents and sisters not given.
Samuel Reynolds lived during the Revolution at said Hempstead, and in 1791 moved to the Township of Bernard, Somerset County, New Jersey.
While residing in Bernard Township, New Jersey, he applied for pension, August 15, 1832 and stated that he enlisted in 1780, served at various times in Captain Garet Acker's company, Colonel Gilbert Cooper's New York regiment, was out in many scouting parties and kept guard on the western shore of the Hudson River and served until in 1782.
The claim was not allowed as proof of six months'

service as required by the pension law, was not furnished.
The soldier, Samuel Reynolds, died July 22, 1839 in Somerset County, New Jersey, and his widow, Sarah, died in April, 1851. The date and place of their marriage are not shown, nor is the maiden name of the widow given.
The following children survived their mother, Sarah Reynolds: Samuel Reynolds, John Reynolds, Abraham Reynolds, Benjamin Reynolds, Hezekiah S. or L. Reynolds, Sarah, wife of John Utter, Phebe, wife of Ira Connet(?), and Mary, wife of William Smith.
Benjamin Reynolds, brother of the soldier, Samuel Reynolds, served in the Revolution, as did another brother, whose name is not given.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

5717
P. O.
Samuel Reynolds
Service:
REJECTED
Enlisted: _____, 18
Discharged: _____, 18
Application filed: _____, 18
The printed list of 1852 shows reasons for suspension. Alleges: _____
Re-enlisted: "For proof of service."
Attorney: _____
P. O. _____
_____ Recognized. _____ Contract.
_____ Cert. of Dis. Searched for _____, 18
1834 April 4 - back to P.O. account seeing 1834 June 25 - Charles H. May clerk

apl. 27. 2-1 Theat.
Rev Saml. Southard
J. L. Edwards Esq. Comm. of Pensions City of Washington

J. S. Edwards Esq.
Sir
I received your letter of 9 th Mar 1835 in Washington but have not had time to examine it until now. There is something about this case that I do not understand. The facts in it seemed to me to be totally misunderstood when the decision was made. I stated my case on several points which I should like to have answered. When I was in your Office about the beginning of March you informed me that the papers were not in your Office that they were in my possession. I was surprised at this but could not venture to deny it from memory.
In your letter of the ninth you again say, that you refer me to your letter of thirteenth of June last (1834) since which time no papers in relation to it have been received. Your letter 30 th June 1834 is before me. It states "I have received the Declaration of Samuel Reynolds and find that nothing explanatory of his alleged service has been furnished, since the papers were returned to you in April last. The claim will therefore remain suspended and the papers placed upon the files of this Office." Now I cannot comprehend how I have the papers, or why they are not on file in the Office. For it is not pretended, so far as I know, that I have had them since the 30 th June 1834, when you admit them to have been on file. I have also before me a letter from you of the 26 th July 1834, in which you acknowledge the receipt of a letter from me

of 14 th July and State that you have given "the papers a careful exami- nation". They were then in the office on the 26 th July 1834. Where are they now? You further State in this same letter of 26 th July 1834) "My letter to you of the 30 th ult o (30 th June 1834) which I presume you have received, will show what objections exist". Now that letter of 30 June 1834, says not one word about the objections. I cannot explain these matters, but think I have a right to ask how I am to understand them, for I am not satisfied that justice has been done in the case.
I am respectfully &c. &c.
Sam l . L. Southard,
Trenton 21 April 1835

War Department Pension Office, April 9 th 1834.
Sir,
The character of the services stated in the original declaration of Samuel Reynolds, has to a very strong presumption that the militia company of Capt. Archer was not permanently called into actual service for the long terms specified in the supplemental declaration. He alleges that he served as a volunteer, seven months in his militia company in 1781, and was called out six months in 1782. Unless some corroborative evidence can be produced, or some explanation made which will reconcile it with the known facts of the service, a pension cannot be computed for this service. The companies of Col. Cook's regiment of militia were called into service for very short periods only, and served almost entirely on the east side of North-River.
Thurs

There are many survivors who belonged to it and if the claimant actually belonged to the corps with proper diligence, he may be able to prove his service. To admit such a claim upon the naked statement of the claimant, would be taking a step which, in principle, might include many claims of the most doubtful character. The papers are again returned.
I have the honor to be
Y. M. A. O. H. J. L. Edwards
Hon. J. L. Southard Senate A States

Hon. S. L. Southard Senate U. S.

Samuel Robbins N.D.
8862
Encl:
Dr. E. L. Southard

Sir
War Department Pension Office February 21. 1894
Each company of the militia of New Jersey having been by law divided into 8 classes who were held to serve in rotation unless in cases of emergency when the commander in chief had power to order into actual service four classes at once, the service claimed to have been performed by Samuel Reynolds cannot be recognised as actual service in the field or garrison for the long periods which he states. Each term of actual service did not generally exceed one month. The papers are returned for a definite statement of the terms of his actual service, and the evidence of survivors if they may be found.
I have the honor to be Your obed Servant J L Edwards
Hon S. L. Southard Senate U. S.

Washington Ap. 30th 1852. To S. P. Hildreth Com. of Pension Sir
Enclosed I have the honor to transmit the Declaration of Sarah Reynolds, admr of Sarah, the Widow of Samuel Reynolds, who was a Soldier of the Revolution. I desire to examine the Papers now on file in your Office.
Very respectfully Your obedt. Servt. J. W. Young

New Brunswick, New Jersey November 20 th 1854.
George C. Whiting Esq. (Com. of Pensions, Washington D.C.)
Sir:
Enclosed, please find power of Attorney from Son, and Admr. of Samuel Reynolds, deceased, late of Somerset County in this State.
These papers should have been forwarded "long time ago", but were misplaced. I have to request a brief of the claim, &c, that I may endeavor to furnish the proof required.
Very Respectfully:
James L. Street, Atty.

Free Samuel Southard
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commr. of Pensions City of Washington

now understand them.
I am, respectfully &c
Saml. Southard
Trenton 19 July 1834
[Faint, mirrored bleed-through text from the reverse side of the page]

70. L Street by
Mr. Brunsick N.Y.
Pension Office Jan'y 13 d 1837
Sir
I have placed the power of attorney authorizing you to prosecute the claim of Samuel Reynolds (deceased) late of New Jersey effected during his lifetime under the Act of June 7 th 1832 and you informed that it has been frequently and carefully examined, and the office has not been satisfied that the service was rendered as alleged. He claimed to have served in the militia of New York from Hempstead County, from sometime in the year 1780, to the fall of 1782 in the company of Captain Gomit Acker and the regiment of Col. Gilbert Cooper. He was, he stated, engaged in scouting parties, and in guarding the shores of the Hudson River between Haverstraw and Tappan. The militia of New Jersey served in tours of one month and was divided into clades, and it is believed that if the service was rendered as claimed by Reynolds, evidence may yet be found in the office of the Secretary at the War of the Interior. If so, the certificate of that officer should be produced. Very Resp ly Yr. ob st Serv t W. Cole, for Com r

4593. 2
Samuel Reynolds
G. Ketuntheas
Swp- June 20-1834
Hon. S. L. Southard ans? abt 9- 1834.
J. A. Hasbelle
Somerville
N.J.

B R I E F objections to the admission of Pension Claims, of which those answered in the negative, in red ink, will apply to the claim of Samuel Reynolds which require further proof or explanation.
I. Does the declaration show where the applicant resides? II. Did the declarant make the declaration in the county where he resides? III. If the applicant did not make the declaration in the county where he resides, is there any reason assigned for his not doing so? IV. Has the declarant mentioned the period or periods of the war when he served? V. * Has he mentioned with precision the length of his service, and the different grades in which he served, in language so definite as to enable the department to determine to what amount of pension he is entitled? No. VI. Has he given the names of the officers under whom he served, in conformity with the regulations? VII. Has he made a relinquishment of every claim to any other pension than the one under the Act of June 7, 1832? VIII. Has the Court given their opinion? IX. Has the Clerk given his certificate? X. Is the Clerk's seal affixed? And if so, has it a device or inscription by which it can be distinguished from any other seal?

XI. Has the applicant obtained the evidence of a clergyman and another respectable citizen as to their belief respecting his age and the general belief in his neighborhood relative to his revolutionary service? XII. If the clergyman's affidavit has not been produced, is there any reason assigned for not obtaining it? XIII. If the applicant has no documentary evidence, and has not obtained the testimony of at least one living witness, has he stated in his declaration that such proof cannot be had? XIV. † If the applicant's name is not found on the rolls of military service, has he produced a witness or witnesses as to his service? If he has produced direct proof as to service, has the magistrate who administered the oath, certified to the credibility of the witness or witnesses? Has the proper officer certified to the official character and signature of the magistrate as the regulations direct? XV. Does it appear from any of the papers that the witness was in such a situation, or of such an age, as to have a personal knowledge of the applicant's service? XVI. ‡ Are the papers authenticated as the regulations direct? XVII. Are the seven interrogatories prescribed by the War Department answered satisfactorily? And, if not, which of them is not so answered? 2? 11 th 10. 7 th 16
EXPLANATORY NOTES.
* QUERE V. In a case where the applicant cannot, by reason of the loss of memory, state precisely how long he served, he should amend his declaration by making an affidavit in the following words: "Personally appeared before me, the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace, &c. A. B. who, being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that, by reason of old age, and the consequent loss of memory, he cannot swear positively as to the precise length of his service, but according to the best of his recollection he served not less than the periods mentioned below, and in the following grades; For _____ year _____ months, and _____ days, I served as a _____ For _____ months and _____ days, I served as a _____; and for such service I claim a pension."

It is important in all cases to determine with precision the period for which each applicant served, and the particular rank he held, as the law directs the pension to be paid according to the grade of the pensioner and the length of his service. The use of the phrase about three or four months is too indefinite, and all such qualifying expressions are objectionable. Some persons who apply for pensions merely state they served two years in the militia, &c. without specifying the tours; the names of the officers, and other particulars respecting their service. This form of a declaration is highly objectionable. It must in every case be clearly shown under what officers the applicant served; the duration of each term of engagement; the particular place or places where the service was performed; that the applicant served with an embodied corps called into service by competent authority; that he was either in the field or in garrison; and for the time during which the service was performed, he was not employed in any civil pursuit.
QUERE XIV.  Proof of Service.
In a case where the name of the applicant is not found on the records of the Department, he must prove his service by two credible witnesses, who are required to set forth in their affidavits the time of the claimants entering the service, and the time and manner of his leaving the same, as well as the regiment, company, and line to which he belonged. The magistrate who may administer the oaths must certify to the credibility of the witnesses, and the official character and signature of the magistrate must be certified by the proper officer, under his seal of office.
QUERE XVI.  Mode of authenticating papers.
In every instance where the certificate of the certifying officer who authenticates the papers is not written on the same sheet of paper which contains the affidavit, or other paper authenticated, the certificate must be attached thereto by a piece of tape or narrow ribbon, the ends of which must pass under the seal of office of the certifying officer, so as to prevent any paper from being improperly attached to the certificate.
In every case where the clerk of the court, or other certifying officer, has no public seal of office, the certificate of a member of congress, proving the official character and signature of the certifying officer, should accompany the papers.
CS The periods of service stated in the additional declaration are altogether unusual and must be proved by the best evidence of which they are susceptible.
The regulations require that the particulars of each term of service be given & that the best evidence in detail be produced.

July 26 84
J. C. C.
Recd Vol 85 page 139

War Dept Pension Office July 26. 1834
Sir,
I have received your letter of the 19 th inst. and in reply thereto, I have to inform you that I have given to the case of Samuel Reynolds, a careful personal examination; and I am unable to discover any reason for a decision in any way varying from that which has already been made known to you. My letter to you of the 30 th ult o . which I presume you have received, will show what objections exist.
I have the honor &
Hon. S. L. Southard Trenton N. Jersey.
Ent d this m th N. Jersey Index - No. 4393

How Is. Southwick #12-13-14 1880
Recd Dec 35 page 127

Dept of War Pension Office
June 30th 1871
Sir,
I have rec'd the declaration of Samuel Reynolds, and find that nothing explanatory of the alleged service has been furnished from the papers, were returned to you in Oct last,
The claim will therefore remain suspended, and the papers placed upon the files of the Office
I have the honor
Hon
S. L. Southard
W. S. S. President

R.W. Young
July 23/53

Pension Office July 23 1853
(ii) The renewed application of Samuel Reynolds dec d of N.J. has been received and filed with his original application. No attempt has ever been made to establish his service, The Secretary of N.J. may be in possession of some evidence in his favor.
R.W. Young Esq Present

Hoboken, New Jersey, Aug. 24. 1855 Secretary of Interior
Dear Sir
Will you have the kindness to in- form me at the earliest opportunity if the name of William Bentley, of Stonington, Connecticut, who was in the Battle of Bunker's Hill, is on record in your office and if he is entitled to a pension, and if he is, for how long and how much, as some of the the heirs have made application to me to see about it.
Also, the same information relative to Samuel Reynolds, who was in the Revolutionary War.
Address
Samuel C. Roberts 137 Washington Street Hoboken New Jersey

David L. Lusk
Aug 31/55

Pension Office August 30 th 1855
Sir
In answer to your letter of of the 24 th instant, I have to inform you that there is not in this office any record evidence showing the service of William Bentley at the battle of Bunker Hill, or of the service of Samuel Reynolds in the Revolutionary war.
Samuel C. Roberts Esq. Hoboken N. Jersey.

fast sheet Feb 6-

Home Office, July 6, 1832.
Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 20 th inst. to the Society of the Bible has been referred to the office, and I hasten to express my regret at the character of the communication addressed to you on the 12 th inst. relating to the semi-allegation of Samuel Reynolds in his discharge under the act of June 7, 1832. which It appears that he was a resident of Hempstead, Orange County, New York, which adjoins Bergen County, New Jersey, and that his dis duty in both counties; but his office was in Middlesex County of New Jersey and there you by the examine, were referred to the Secretary at Trenton for the required evidence of service. In the course of this, in the process examination of the record, no evidence of strict  service could be found in the office. But the clerk also copied the unsigned draft of the letter to you, and also in copying was sent to you as a draft, undoubtedly sub-

that the money, Scotus , of the Union for the money, Scotus , at Scotus . I have proof of Scotus from the office of Scotus , in particular to give my personal attestation to my own substance . But I have other such matters, as I have, I hope, personal knowledge of the one  captained of.
Robert Captain Stoker , not Stoker , as stated by James  Reynolds , commanded a company of the Union Army  Volunteers when was, it appears, in 1865, a list of payments of the money was attached to it in the office - but which, lost did not contain the name of James Reynolds - and hence it was ne- cessary to show that he did as stated above receive the money , the money  was paid for by evidence from the office of the Scotus at Scotus ; for the proper balance as paid  for  the  money , and he stated that there was no person living by whom he could establish his claim . The money , according to Reynolds' statement,

commenced in June 1860, and at which time he was a resident of the place, Gray County, New York but he moved to Newbern, Mass & Tappan and Hamburg, and was then permitted to return home with order, to hold himself in readiness to march at a minute's warning - and that during the last two years of the war he was at times at the time under Col. Nichols who was attached to the Regiment of Col. Gilbert Cooper. It is possible that with the old statement of Regular Reserve him, the Secretary of the War of New Jersey has to be called to trace the same, of service, or discharge - and if his official showing at least 14 months service, filed in this office the claim will be promptly adjusted.
James L. Street, Esq. New Brunswick, New Jersey.

Handwritten text: Sent. July 6. 1837

Ames App. Feb. 6, 1857
Sir,
I herewith return the bill of sum, S. Street, Esq., captain of the steamer of the communication addressed to him on the 12 th inst. relative to the same performed by Lawrence Reynolds, who, in 1833, offered for a pension under the act of Mar. 7, 1832. I also send herewith a letter addressed to the Street above expressing the origin of the error about above his captaincy, which I hope will now persuade him with the desired information. In the hope that the application will be satisfactory,
I have the honor to be Yours Respectfully Geo. W. H.
Rev. Walter Ch. Elliott, Sec. Interior

Hyde 1/13/22/53
501 S. Street
Dec. 2nd - 1852
for return Feb 7/53
Samuel Reynolds The City - Suspended 29 April 1833 22 June 1834 20 June 1834 Papers enclosed to H. & C. Nov. 19. 1836 Letter - June 4, 1832 (over)
Should I long remain in the City

St. Louis, Mo. Jan 23/53 St. Louis Mo. Jan 23/53 St. Louis Mo. Jan 23/53 died Nov 4/53 St. Louis Mo. Feb 6/53 St. Louis Mo. Feb 6/53
Plumb & Southwick Utica N.Y. June 1832 (over) Wm Lloyd to Mrs. L. C. Southwick to be paid July 26. 1834 Debts endorsed to Wm L. C. Southwick Nov. 19. 1836 Plumb & Southwick Utica N.Y. June 29 1832 General Reynolds Newbury - Berkshire

April 4, 1934
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Samuel Reynolds-R.8717 BA-J/ATF
Mr. O. D. Austin 532 Walnut Street Elizabeth, New Jersey
Dear Sir:
Reference is made to your letter in which you request the Revolutionary War record of Samuel Reynolds of Somerset County, New Jersey.
The data furnished herein were obtained from the papers on file in pension claim, R. 8717, based upon the Revolutionary War service of Samuel Reynolds.
Samuel Reynolds was born May 14, 1764 in the Township of Hempstead, Orange County, New York. His father was a "warm whig" and was living during the Revolutionary War at Hempstead, New York, as was also his mother and two sisters; names of parents and sisters not given.
Samuel Reynolds lived during the Revolution at said Hempstead, and in 1791 moved to the Township of Bernard, Somerset County, New Jersey.
While residing at Bernard Township, New Jersey, he applied for pension, August 15, 1832 and stated that he enlisted in 1780, served at various times in Captain Garet Acker's company, Colonel Gilbert Cooper's New York regiment, was out in many scouting parties and kept guard on the western shore of the Hudson River and that he served until in 1782.
The claim was not allowed as proof of six months' service as required by the pension law, was not furnished.
Samuel Reynolds died July 22, 1839 in Somerset
next time say soldier's brother, Benjamin served in the Rev. also another brother was in the Rev. his name not given.

County, New Jersey, and his widow, Sarah, died in April, 1851. The date and place of their marriage are not given, nor is the maiden name of the widow shown.
The following children survived their mother, Sarah Reynolds: Samuel Reynolds, John Reynolds, Abraham Reynolds, Benjamin Reynolds, Hezekiah S. or L. Reynolds, Sarah, wife of John Utter, Phebe, wife of Ira Connet(?), and Mary, wife of William Smith.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

Oquossit, Maine
June 19, 1934
Veterans Administration Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir:
Will you please inform me what record, if any, you have of Samuel Reynolds , b. 1762, in the township of Hempstead , Orange Co., New York , who is said to have served in the Revolutionary War in Captain Garet Acker's Company, Colonel Gilbert Cooper's New York Regiment, 1780-1782.
I thank you now very much and shall be glad to pay expenses of the search.
Yours very truly, Charles H. Gray
(Descendant of Mary Reynolds) " " Samuel "

532 Walnut St. Elizabeth N.J. Mar. 12. 1932
Commissioner Pension Bureau Interior Dept. Washington, D.C.
Dear Sir,
Will you please advise me if the records of your office show that a pension was granted Samuel Reynolds , of Backing Ridge, N.J. a soldier of the Revolution (b. 1762. d. July 21. 1837) who served in the New Jersey Militia from Somerset Co. or to his wife Sarah (Woodward) Reynolds, who died Apr. 6. 1851, &
If a record of service is shown, will you state it? Reynolds record of service is reported in Stryker's Officers and Men from N.J. "in the Revolution, as from Somerset Co.
Yours truly E.D. Austin 532 Walnut St. Elizabeth, N.J.

10019 M. at
Ans. Nov 30 / 1836
FREE
Jas. L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions War Department Washington.

Home Town N. J. Nov. 12 th 1835.
Dear Sir,
Your favor of the 10 th inst. I have just now rec d . with it. I acknowledge the rec d . also, of the original pension Declaration sent at my request, of the following persons, viz: George Anthony, Sarah Reynolds, Jacob Sine, Stephen Breeze (or Breese) George Townly, & Nathan Gilmer (or Allmon). George Anthony's, consist not of his first, or original Declaration, but is an explanatory or supplemental one, & no other annexed or accompanying it. This (supplement) was made drawn by me, indited by Anthony: the original by Mr. Johnson of Newton, Sup y 6 th . In Sarah Reynolds' case, his original Declaration was by Mr. Hartwell of Somers 6 th . & this is before me. A minute detail, or specification of his services, in form of a supplement was afterwards drawn by me, under his dictation, & forwarded to your Office & is there still, as you will find. Mr. Southard had some correspondence with you concerning it, which he sent to me. This supplement, will be material to Reynolds before our Legislature, as with it, is a certificate of his good character, signed by the Church Session & many respectable neighbours. You will oblige me by another search for it & sending it to me.
You add, that "Lewis Felter's papers are not on file, nor does his name appear on an Index of Claims." — — It was originally a New York case, from Rockland 6 th . on the line of N.Y. & N. Jersey, when his services were rendered. At Mr. Pie, or Pye, (David I believe) presented it, & finally, Felter brought me his papers, saying Pie could do no more with them. — He gave me details & specifications of services, in form of an amended Declaration, which was sent to your office, as well as some 4 or 5 depositions of individuals, whom he found as witnesses, & which were sent to you, as they were rec d . at different times. Being detached papers, they may have "lost their fellows". I trust you will find them on the N. York Index. — He is very poor, & I believe our Legislature, with his Docum ts . will give relief. — All the papers, shall be returned, after Legislature action is had thereon.
Truly & respectfully,
Gen. L. Edwards Esq r Commissioner of Pensions.
your obliged friend & ob t . serv t . Lewis Condict.

J. L. Edwards Esq. Commissaire of Pensions.

Trenton N Jersey, 1 st March 1858.
Dear Sir,
I return herewith, the Pension papers of Jacob Saco, John Morgan & Sam l Reynolds, which I obtained some time past by your kindness, for the purpose of asking aid of the Legislature of this State. This aid has been obtained, & agreeably to promise I return the papers to your files, with thanks for them.
I have an impression that I rec d some time since a letter from you in reference to the claim of Mrs. Wagon, widow of Charles (I believe was his first name) Wagon. If I did receive such a letter, I have unfortunately mislaid or lost it. She has lately desired me to inform her the result of her application. She is in extreme need, & my impression is, (not having any memorandum here) that it presented strong equitable grounds for her admission on the Roll.
With much respect
Your ob dt serv t & friend
Lewis Bondietz.
J. L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions.

State of New Jersey Morris County
Before the subscriber, a Justice of peace in for said County, personally came Samuel Reynolds of Somerset County, & being first duly sworn, saith as follows - viz: I am the same Samuel Reynolds, who heretofore made a Declaration before the Court of Common Pleas of said County, to obtain the benefit of the Pension law of the U. States of June 7 th 1832. By a letter to the Hon ble Mr. Southard, of the Senate, from Commissioner Edwards, dated April 9 th 34, I am called on to furnish some corroborative evidence of my Military services, & to give some explanation of the nature & circumstances of there  the services. - They were performed along the Hudson river, in the State of New York, & it is now 40 years, or more, since I removed from that place, & all my old associates & comrades, who served in Capt. Acheson's company with me, are either dead, or have removed to some other place, as I only believe. It is possible that there may be survivors who served in Col. Cooper's regiment - who are unknown to me, & perhaps there may be the "survivors" alluded to in the letter of Mr. Edwards. - If there be such survivors, I know neither their persons nor their residences. - The last surviving comrade known to me was the late Hablee Coe, of Newark, N. Jersey, who died about a year or 18 months since. Two of his brothers, viz: Samuel & Benjamin Coe, were fellow soldiers with me: - but both are dead, as are also Samuel & Isaac Coe, brothers of another family, Jacob Acheson & his son Jacob. Garret & Peter Vandewort, Peter Reed, Abraham & Jacob Devoe - John D. Coe, Benjamin Reynolds my brother, James Lewis, Benjamin Halsted, Jonas Halsted, Conrad Tinkley & John Tinkley, Garret Van Houten, Dora Isaac Sherwood - Stephen Gonne & two sons - Albert Cooper - & others, whose names I do not now recollect. These men, all lived within the bounds of Captain Acheson's company, & served in it, & as I believe, performed Military duty with me, in the revolutionary war, & if living, I believe would testify to my Military services. In my advanced age, unable as I am to ride a mile, & having nothing to defray the expenses of traveling - it is out of the question for me to undertake to search for witnesses, not knowing where to find any living being, who was an associate with me in the war. -
In the letter of Mr. Edwards, it is stated, that the  the companies of Col. Cooper's regiment were called into service for short periods only, & served almost entirely on the East side of the North River, & that there are many survivors of it. However it may have been of other companies in Col. Cooper's regiment I cannot say - but Capt. Acheson's company was raised & lived, & served on the West side of the Hudson. And I do not know a living man who belonged to his company, except myself.
The circumstances of my services, I will state as fully as I am able. - My father resided in Orange County at Hempstead, distant from the Hudson river about 7 miles, & had been out from his farm on Military duty so much, that every thing about his farm suffered for want of his attention. When I became 16 years old, I volunteered my services, as a minute man, holding myself always in readiness for active duty at a minute's warning, to enable my father to remain at home, & attend to his farming interests, & to take care of his family. A number of young lads, of my age, &

in similar circumstances, agreed to volunteer in the same manner, & our services were accepted by our officers, with the understanding of all concerned, that in consideration of this engagement, our fathers were to be exempted from Militia calls & duties, except when alarms were given upon an invasion by the enemy. — The enemy had the entire control & command of the Navigation, & plundering & foraging parties were so often sent out by them to annoy the adjoining County, that it had become necessary to keep up a line of guards, constantly stationed along the river, to protect the inhabitants, & to detect & apprehend the "London traders", as they were called.
Captain Aches' company to which I belonged was distributed in detached portions of from 12 to 15 or 20 men, & sometimes more, to perform this service from the opening of the navigation in the spring, until in the fall of the year. For this kind of service particularly — & for such other occasional duties as emergencies might demand, we volunteered, & were accepted by our officers.
We were stationed at Hambleton, Nyack, Tappan, & other intermediate points, sometimes under our Captain, — sometimes under his Lieutenants or Ensign, performing guard duty, night & day. My first service was, I believe in June, 1780 — about the first week of June, in Capt. Aches' company, upon an alarm, occasioned by the enemy coming up from N. York. At this time we were on duty at least two weeks, & were discharged unbally & went home. In Sept. & October following, we were again ordered out on duty under Capt. Aches, upon another alarm. We went down the river to Hambleton, Nyack & Tappan, & as far as Hackensack in N. Jersey — I was out on this service for not a less period than 6 weeks. — I believe I did not enumerate this in my first Declaration, because I did not then remember it. I know it was performed however.
In the spring of 1781, as soon as the ice was out of the river, I was called out under Capt. Aches, & was stationed as before stated, performing guard duty at the various points along the Western shore of the river, & protecting the inhabitants from Refugees, Tories, & London traders, between Hambleton & Tappan, guarding the towns & villages against surprise by the enemy from early in April till late in the fall — a period not less than 7 months. Colonel Cooper reviewed or saw us occasionally when on duty at our several stations — altho' I believe the whole regiment was never assembled together upon any one occasion or at any one place, nor can I say that none of the companies composing his regiment were stationed on the East side of the river. — Our own duties were performed along the Western shore. Late in the fall, we were verbally discharged & went home. We had frequent alarms in the winter following, from the ravages of the Tories & Refugees. Certain alarm posts were established. & 3 guns from any of these posts, were a signal of alarm, for every man to repair to the post, ready for action. A party of Refugees, whose number was not known, attacked Col. Cooper's house one night — burst open the upper door, & fired 5 guns into the house. An officer of the U. S. Army, whose name I cannot recollect was at Cooper's house that night, with his body guard of 5 men. One of his guards had 3 shots fired through his breast, & was killed instantly. Another was shot through the shoulder & arm. — Alarm was made,

our company assembled & pursued as far as Starkenburg, but did not overtake the hostile party. - Some of our neighbours had had their teams of horses taken when on the road, & driven off, - 4 teams in all. We recovered all 4 of these teams - brought back all the horses, & one of the drivers, whom the enemy had wounded through the thigh with a musket ball in his attempt to escape. - He died soon after his return home, the wound having mortified. -
Early in the spring of 1782, when the navigation of the river opened, I was again out as a volunteer under Capt. Acker, Col. Cooper, & stationed as in the former year, to guard the Western shore of the Hudson at the same points, & continued in the performance of this duty till late in the fall season, after been having term. I think my Spring service in 81, & 82, began early in April, & ended probably about the last of October, or in November. I was out certainly not less than five months in 82, & 7 months in 81 - of constant & vigilant & active guard duty, beside my service in alarms, which it is more difficult to compute. I was distant from home about from 15 to 20, or 25 miles, according to our station, & I usually recd. my changes of clothes from home. - When they were not just to me, I obtained my officers permission to go home for them, always returning to my station & duty the same day. And during the whole period of my before stated service, I was not engaged or employed in any civil pursuit. - My services excused my father from calls for militia duty, & his time was devoted to his farm & family, except when alarms were made. Whether I was called his substitute, I do not know - but I supposed my time thus devoted, was at least equal to the calls or drafts which otherwise might have been made individually upon each of us. - I had 2 brothers, older than myself, in the service - one of whom, (Benjamin) was in the same company with me. We generally had to find our own provision, as well as clothes, & I never to this day, have recd. a single dollar, either paper or silver, for all my services.
When I volunteered to serve, there was no time particularly specified or limited. - It was for so long a time as service might be required; & necessity was the only limit: - & I served till I was regularly & honorably discharged, verbally - by my officers - never having any other than a verbal discharge. - My services were all truly & faithfully rendered - viz: 2 months in 80 - 7 months in 81 - & 6 or 7 months in 82 - in all at least 15 months, beside alarms - & for other services, I ask of my County a pension. I conscientiously believe I can find no living proof, nor any "survivors" who belonged to Capt. Acker's company in 80, 81 & 82. I must therefore rely on the truth of my own individual statement, hoping that some of my respectable neighbours, who have known me well for 20, 30, & perhaps 40 years, may testify to my veracity & character.
Sworn & subscribed before me, at Morris town this 15 th day of May, Domini 1834
James Reynolds
Charles Freeman J. P.

We the subscribers, citizens of New Jersey, residents of Baskingridge in Somerset County, do hereby certify to the Secretary of War & to the Commissioner of Pensions, that we are personally & individually, well acquainted with Samuel Reynolds, the within applicant for a pension. Some of us have known him for 15 to 20 years - some of us for 30 & for 40 years - during which time he has uniformly sustained a good moral character - free from reproach - has been considered a man of known probity & of good standing in society for veracity & integrity, & fully entitled to belief. - He is our neighbour - a member of the same Presbyterian Church & Society for many years, & our opportunities of knowing & proving him, have been long continued. Of his Revolutionary services, we know nothing - but we cheerfully commend him as a man of truth & honesty. - Baskingridge N. Jersey, May Mar 14 th . 1834. -
John Breen Nathl Whitaker Malachi McColloum Henry Southard John Kirkpatrick
I would respectfully state to the Secretary of War & Pension Commissioner, as to the gentlemen whose names are subscribed to the preceding Certificate, that John Breen Esq r is one of the Judges of the Pleas & a Justice of peace in Somerset Co. & a Member of the N. J. Legislature - Messrs. Whitaker & McColloum, are respectable farmers & neighbours of Mr. Reynolds. - Henry Southard, is the same venerable & highly respected citizen, who was for many years a Representative in Congress - & father of Senator Southard; & John Kirkpatrick Esq r is one of the Common Pleas Judges of Somerset - & all of them members of the same Presbyterian Congregation with Mr. Reynolds, in Baskingridge.
Morristown, 16 th May, 1834. -
Lewis Condict, late a Rep n from N. Jersey.
I hereby certify to the Secretary of War & Commissioner of Pensions, that Charles Freeman Esq r before whom the foregoing Deposition of Sam l Reynolds was taken, is well known to me to be a Justice of peace in Morris County, duly commissioned & authorized, & that the signature of his name thereto is genuine.
Morris town May 16 th 1834. -
Lewis Condict, late a Rep n from N. Jersey.