Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 6219, Francis Otway Byrd, Va.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Va.
Byrd, Francis Otway Anna
W. 6219
CONTENTS

2028.
Virginia Richmond
Sarah Byrd
widow of Francis Oway Byrd who was a Colonel of a in the Va line
for 1 1/2 months St. Louis Camp
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 567 Dollars 50 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1843.
Certificate of Pension issued the 20th day of Sept. 1843 and sent to
R. H. Gray, Lynchburg, Va.
[Act of March 3, 1843.]
d in Book c 4 Page 147.
Subt R. H. Gray April 4. 1845 To same, April 18 th 1845
Paid at Treasury, under act 6 April, 1832, from 4th March, 1846 to 21st Aug. 1846. Agent notified 8th April, 1846.
Subt Hon P. H. Silverton Jan 5. 1848.
Subt same March 6. 48 R. Gray Mich 19. 1852.

Declarations of Mrs Anna Byrd - In order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress of the 7 th July 1838, entitled, "an act granting half pay and pensions to certain widows,"
Virginia to wit,
Corporation of Lynchburg Campbell County on this 30 th October - 1838 personally appeared before me David R. Lyman a Justice of the peace for the Corporation aforesaid - Mrs Anna Byrd, (the widow of Col. Francis Sturges Byrd) aged 73 years who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on her oath, make the following declarations, 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 pensions to certain widows," That she is the widow of Col. Francis Sturges Byrd Sec d a Revolutionary officer in Continental line of service - who was appointed a Colonel, by the convention of delegates from the Counties and Corporations, in the Colony of Virginia, held in the City of Rich d in the County of Henrico, the 17 th July 1775 - at 10/- p r day - and £50. additional to be paid down - That he served as aide-de-camp to Gen l Lee during the campaigns of 1775 and 1776 - and after that period as Lieut Col. of Cavalry - until near the close of the War - and she thinks he resigned his commission the fall of the year after they were married in 1781. as will appear - or, concluded by the returns to the war department - and for which service he rec d 6,000 acres land - which is presumptive evidence (at least) that he served three years or more in the continental service - and for further evidence of service, she will have to rely on the records to be obtained in the City of Richmond and at the Auditor's office, and war departments in the City of Washington -
That she was married to the aforesaid Col. Francis Sturges Byrd, in Mecklenburg County V a the 6 th

of Apr l 1781 by the Rev d Mrs Cameron - and that her maiden name was Anna Munford - That her husband first settled in Chas t City County where they lived several years - during which he held the high - Sheriffatty - from thence he removed to Norfolk V a where he held the office of Collector of the Port - until his death - which he was on the day of September 1800 - and that she has remained a widow ever since as will more fully appear by reference to the proof annexed - (and inasmuch as there is no posi- -tive proof that her husband was in the service after they were married she must say, that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but that the marriage took place previous to the 1 st Jan y 1794 - viz, at the time above stated - known to, and subscribed on the day and year above written -
Anna Byrd Seal Test D r Lyman
I David R Lyman Justice of the peace for the corporation of Lynch s do hereby certify that Mrs Anna Byrd the reputed widow of Col. Francis Stray Byrd - being of too infirm body to attend Court - hath, this 30 th day of October 1838 made oath before me that the above declaration to which her name is subscribed - contains the truth to the best of her knowledge and belief - Given under my hand and Seal this day and year above written -
D. R. Lyman Seal
Virginia to wit, Corporation of Lynch s - This 30 th day of October 1838 personally appeared before me David R Lyman a Justice of the peace for the corporation aforesaid - Mrs Maria B. Br- -adgate (the widow of Davidson Bradgate,) a Lady of high standing in society - who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on her oath say, that she does know of her personal knowledge, that Mrs Anna Byrd, (whose maiden name was Anna Munford

and named in the above declaration, with her signature by mark annexed - is the widow of Col. Francis Staray Byrd - who was an officer in the Revolutionary war - and that she has remained a widow ever since his death in Sep. 1800 - and is a widow at this time - Given under my hand and seal This day and year above written -
D. R. Gynman Seal
State of Virginia
Corporation of Lynchburg to wit
3252 I James Benagh clerk of the court of Hustings of the Corporation of Lynchburg in the State of Virginia aforesaid do hereby certify that David R. Gynman who has signed the preceding certificates as a justice of the peace is now and was at the time of signing the same an acting justice of the peace of the said Corporation duly elected and qualified to serve as such from the 4 th day of April last until the April Court in the year 1839 that his said signatures are genuine. In testimony whereof I hereunto sign my name as clerk and affix the seal of the said Hustings court of the Corporation of Lynchburg This 31 st day of October 1838 James Benagh clerk

State of Virginia, Corporation of Lynchburg to wit
On the 31 st day of May — 1845, before me D r G. G. Gorman a justice of the peace in and for said Corporation personally appeared M rs Ann O. Wright and made oath a resident of said Corporation, who being first 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, 1838 (for the benefit of the heirs of Anna Byrd de d ) entitled, "An act granting half pay and pensions to certain Widows;" That she is the Executrix of Anna Byrd de d of said Corporation — the widow of Francis O'Neal Byrd de d — and that she is the identical person who rec d a pension from the Gen l Govt, under the act of Congress passed July 7, 1838, at the rate of $567.50. for the Ned Services of her husband in the rank of Col, and Aid. de Camp — from the 4 th day of March 1836, to the 21 st day of August 1844 — the latter being the day of his death.
Declarant now claims — as Executrix — $32.50. fr. the additional pension, from the 4 th March 1836, to the 21 st day of August 1844, on three distinct grounds — 1 st that as Aid. de Camp, to Maj Gen l Sir Francis O'Neal Byrd, was entitled to the rank and pay of Major. 2 nd as Aid, he was entitled, while acting in that capacity, to $24 fr. Mo. additional to his rank in line. 3 rd that while a Cadet, he, as an un-commissioned of- ficer rec d . 10 c fr. day — or $50. fr. Mo. — and consequently his Widow was entitled to receive a pension of $600. fr. Mo. instead of $567.50. and now asks that a certificate be issued for the balance.
Ann O. Wright
Ex x of Anna Byrd de d .
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year above written —
Before me — D r G. G. Gorman — J.P.
I do hereby certify, that M rs Ann O. Wright is the Ex x of Anna Byrd, who rec d a pension as above described — Given under my hand the day and year above written. D r G. G. Gorman — J.P.

State of Virginia Corporation of Lynchburg, to wit:
At a court of Hastings held for the town of Lynchburg at the court house in said town on Monday the 2 nd day of June 1825. —
The declaration of Mrs. Ann C. Wright was read in court, claiming the balance of pension, due the heirs of Anne Byrd decd., together with the certificates of D.R. Lyman Esq. and the court having examined the same, do certify to the War Department — that the aforesaid Anne Byrd is the widow of Francis Alway Byrd decd. — and that she is the identical person, who received a pension from the General Government under the Acts of July 7, 1838 and March 3, 1823 — and who died in said corporation on the 21 st day of August 1824, leaving three children, to wit: Maria B. Bradfute, Ann C. Wright and Abby Davis, and that it does appear from the will, of record in this court, of the said Anne Byrd — that the said Ann C. Wright is appointed Executrix on her estate. And that David R. Lyman above named, is an Acting Justice of the Peace in and for said corporation, duly elected and qualified as such, and that the signature purporting to be his, affixed to the several certificates in this case are genuine.
In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed the Seal of said Hastings Court, and signed my name as clerk of said court. This 4 th day of June 1825 and in the 69 th year of the commonwealth
J. A. Benagh

State of Virginia,
Clarke County to wit, On this 23 rd day of Nov. 1838, personally appeared before me Nathaniel Burwell a Justice of the peace, in and for the County aforesaid; M rs Maria H Page a respectable lady of said County; who, being first duly sworn according to law; doth, on her oath say - That, she is the sister of Col Francis Otway Byrd, (more commonly called, or, known, by the name of Otway Byrd) a Revolutionary Officer - That, he was married to Miss Ursula Anna, alias Anna, (sometimes called Nancy Munford, the 2 nd daughter of Col Robert Munford of Mecklenburg County in the State of Virginia - the said County in which they were married; in or about the year 1781. or 1782 at any rate before the 1 st of Jan y 1790 -
That they lived together as man and wife, untill the death of her brother Col Otway Byrd, which was about the year 1800 - That M rs Anna Byrd, the widow of Col. Francis Otway, or, Otway Byrd - has remained a widow ever since the death of her husband (about the year 1800) and is a widow at this time - and is the identical person, who, now solicits a pension, at the hands of the Gov- -ernment -
Maria H Page
The above M rs Maria H. Page made oath to the above certificate, before me a justice of the peace for Clarke County Va - given under my hand this 23 rd day of Nov. 1838
Nath l Burwell

Virginia
Clarke County
I John May Clerk of the Court of the County aforesaid do hereby certify that Nathaniel Bunce Esq. before whom the foregoing Affidavit was made & subscribed & sworn to was at the time of so doing & now is an acting Justice of the Peace for the County aforesaid duly commissioned and qualified that full Faith & Credit are due and ought to be given to all his Official Acts as such as well in points of Justice as the record of that his signature is genuine.
In Testimony Whereof I have hereunto subscribed my Name & affixed the Seal of the said Court this 23 rd Day of November 1838. and in the 63 rd Year of the Commonwealth.
W. D. [Signature]

June 27, 1934
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Francis Otway Byrd-W.6219 BA-J/AWF Am
Mrs. Philip A. Spence Wytheville Virginia
Dear Madam:
Reference is made to your request for data in regard to the following Revolutionary War soldiers-Lieutenant-Colonel Otway Bird (Byrd), Francis Byrd of Southwest Virginia, William Byrd of Southwest Virginia, Azariah Dartes, and John Haynes of Southwest Virginia and Hawkins County, Tennessee.
Revolutionary War data furnished by this office are obtained from claims for pension and bounty land made to the United States, based upon military service of soldiers in that war.
A search of the records fails to show such claims on file on account of the Revolutionary War services of a John Haynes as described, or to any Azariah Dartes. The data given relative to William Byrd are not sufficient to enable this office to identify the record of that particular soldier, in whom you are interested.
The record of Francis Otway Byrd is furnished herein, as found in pension claim, W. 6219, based upon his service in the War of the Revolution.
The date and place of birth of this soldier are not shown in the claim; he was the son of William Byrd of Westover, Virginia, name of his mother not given.
Francis Otway Byrd (his signature appears in the claim Otway Byrd) was a Midshipman in the British Navy

when quite young and served on several ships, particularly the "Fowey", commanded by George Montague. He resigned from said service to join the Continental Army, for which action his father, who died in January, 1777, left him one shilling and 1000 acres of land, which had been granted by his Majesty's Proclamation in 1763.
Francis Otway Byrd was appointed a cadet in the Continental Army, July 17, 1775, and an Aide-de-Camp to General Lee in September, 1775, under whom he served during the campaigns of 1775 and 1776; he was commissioned, January 1, 1777, Lieutenant-Colonel of Light Dragoons and served as such until he resigned, July 15, 1778.
He received 6000 acres of land from the State of Virginia for his services.
He married in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, Miss Ursula Anna (sometimes called Nancy) Munford, April 6, 1781; she was the second daughter of Colonel Robert Munford of St. James Parish, Mecklenburg County, Virginia, the name of her mother is not stated.
After their marriage they settled in Charles City County, Virginia, where he was High Sheriff, moved from there to Norfolk, where he held the office of Collector of the Port, until he died in September, 1800.
His widow, Anna Byrd, was allowed pension on her application executed, October 30, 1838, at which time she was seventy-three years of age and living in Lynchburg, Virginia.
The widow died in said Lynchburg, August 21, 1844, leaving the following children- Martha B. Bradfate, Abby Davis, and Mrs. Ann O Wright. Mrs. Ann O. Wright in 1845 was a resident of Lynchburg, Virginia, and was the Executrix on the estate of her mother.
William Munford was referred to in 1808, and George W. Munford in 1838 was Clerk of the House of Delegates of Virginia and Keeper of the Rolls of the Commonwealth; no relationship to the widow was stated. Mrs. Maria H. Page

was a resident of Clarke County, Virginia in 1838; she was the sister of Lieutenant-Colonel Francis Otway Byrd.
Very truly yours
A. D. HILLER Assistant to Administrator

TREASURY DEPARTMENT,
SECOND COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE,
Nov. 5 th 1845.
Sir:
Under the act of the 6th of April, 1838, entitled "An Act directing the transfer of money remaining unclaimed by certain Pensioners, and authorizing the payment of the same at the Treasury of the United States," and the third section of the Act of August 23, 1842, extending the time within which pensioners may receive their pensions from the pension agents, The Executrix of Ann Byrd, decd. a Pensioner on the Roll of the Richmond VA Agency, at the rate of Five hundred sixty seven Dollars and fifty Cents per annum, under the law of the 17 th June 1844, has been paid at this Department, from the 4 th of March 1844, to the 21 st August 1844.
Respectfully, yours,
Jno. M. Brooks Acting Comptroller.
To the COMMISSIONER OF PENSIONS,
Present.

1829
Richmond Virginia
Anna Byrde
widow of Francis Atway Byrdace
who was a pensioner under the Act of
1 who died in the year 1800 V.A.
of Campbell in the State of
who was a Colonel in the _____ commanded
by Captain _____ of the _____ commanded
by _____ in the V.A. line for 17 1/2 mos Lt Colonel 6 1/2 " Aid de Camp
Inscribed on the Rolls of Richmond etc. at the rate of 56 7 Dollars 50 Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1836.
Certificate of Pension issued the 13th day of Feb. 1834 and sent May 11. Coles Geo of Rep.
Arrears to the 4th of Sept 1838 $1418.75 Semi-annual allowances ending May 39, 283.75
$1.702.50
{ Act July 7, } 1838. }
Recorded by N.H. Addison Clerk, Book A Vol. 20 Page 176
Letter March 19. 1839 to A. Agt. V. B. H. Gray

J. L. Edwards Esq.
Dear Sir -
I would like to know the grounds on which you rejected each of the subjoined claims to Pensions - I am & have been confined to my room for a week, by indisposition.
In case you cannot find time to copy your grounds of rejection, let me know it and will call when I am able, at the office - The subjoined are the claims -
Lemuel Bushman admt of Hannah Bushman widow of Lemuel Parker -
Polly Aldrich widow of Clark Aldrich
Ann C. Wright Executrix of Anna Boyd -
Nancy King widow of Jesse Tucker -
Yours resp
P. H. Alveston -
Wednesday P. M. } Willards Hotel - }

wa Nov 26.
Adolph Alma Byrd.
103252 Nov 21
Edwards
TH
Commissary of Pensions Washington City

Enclosed I send you the aff. t of Mrs Pugh's will and of Mr Pugh. which is intended to clear up any discrep- ancy of statement in regard to the joint names of Col. Boyd and his widow - The evidence of marriage is now complete
The proof of service is sufficient to establish full pay - to wit -
From the 1 st Jan y 1777. to 15 th July 1778. as Lieut Col. of Cav. y
From the 1 st Sep r . 1775 to 31 st Dec r 1776 as aid to Genl. Lee
See Resolutions of the N. of D. of Virg. and Tenn. of Congress Winchester Nov. 26. 1838
Robt. M. Gray

June 10. 1845.
Amias due
Anna Byrd, etc.
Jus. J. Faxon 43 2028 6611
Com. of Pen
W

Spotsylvania June 4 th 1845.
Sir,
Enclosed is the declaration of M rs Ann O. Wright, Executrix of M rs Anna Byrd dec d . of the Corporation of Spotsylvania widow of Francis Otway Byrd dec d . claiming the balance of pension due the heirs of said Anna Byrd on the principle set forth in the declaration enclosed.
This demand I consider, not only just, but clearly within the rules - on the latest decision of the M rs Gen l allowing pensions on the pay of Staff-officers, instead of confining them to the pay of the rank in line held by the officer. Please give this case a favorable consideration - and the result must necessarily be in our favor - and if so please issue the certificate as soon as convenient.
Yours, respectfully -
Robt H Gray agent.

Synch May 12 1845, April
Sir,
Yours of the 12, up on is at hand touching the case of Mr Anna Byrd, claiming an increase of pension.
You misunderstand me. I did not state, or assume, that Byrd was a Cap. at the time he acted as aid. de. camp to Genl. Lee. I only referred to the fact, that while he acted as aid to Genl. Lee, he ranked as Cap. of Infantry in the line, and on such rank, you allowed the widows pension, for the time he Byrd acted as aid & etc. This was the position you assumed, when the widows pension was allowed. Then add $24. pr mo. to $40. pr mo. the pay of Cap. of Inf. in the line, and we have Byrds pay pr mo. while he was acting as aid to Genl. Lee. Byrd knew his rights under the acts of Congress, and would not submit to any reduction of his pay, which was, under the laws of Congress, $61.15 pr mo. I think you are too rigorous in throwing the burden of proof upon us. We shew you our rights under the law, and our duty is performed. If the books containing Byrds account as aid to Genl. Lee is lost, or destroyed, we should not be made to suffer by it. But I imagine, that if the account of the pay Master of Lees army, is in existence, it will shew the actual pay, that Byrd rec d . And in absence of that, we should enjoy our rights under the law.
But as to Byrds actual pay, independent of rank - our claim is fully sustained by the fact, that in addition to $50. actual pay, he rec d from the State of Va. the appointment of cadet at 10. shillings pr day - ($50. pr mo) at least! if not more, until he was promoted to the rank of Col of Cavalry. Then the 10. shillings pr day, is 50 pr mo - for the 8 mo. that the pension was curtailed below $60. pr mo. And the $50. also, was properly a part of his Byrds actual pay. Then,

under any aspect of the case there is a balance of $32.50 per annum, due to the widow or her heirs from the 4 th of March 1836, to the 21 st of August 1844, the time of her death. For surely the pay of Byrd was not reduced below 10 shillings per day, when he was promoted , to the Staff rank of Ad. de Camp to Genl. Sec! This would have been a singular promotion indeed.
I trust that on a review, and reconsideration of this case you will feel no difficulty, in your mind, a hesitation, in issuing a certificate of increase of pension; and if so, please write me whether it will be necessary for the Executrix, Mrs. Ann D Wright, to make a declaration for the purpose; Should you still refuse to allow the increase of pension in this case, I shall have to appeal to the Sec y of War, or to the Sec y of State, as I consider it too clear a case to abandon, until all my rights of appeal are exhausted, have and failed.
Yours with due respect — No. H. Gray

State of Virginia
Mecklenburg County to wit, On this 8 th day of November 1838, personally appeared before me Henry M. Daniel a Justice of the peace in and for the aforesaid County - M c Richard W. Walker, a respectable citizen of the County a- foresaid, and also a Justice of the peace of said County Who being first duly sworn, according to law, doth on his oath say - That he does know of his own personal knowledge; that Col. Francis Sturges Byrd, an officer in the Revolutionary war, and of the Continental line of service; was married to Miss Ursula Anna Munford the daughter of M c Robert Munfords of said County, about the year 1781 or 1782, and certainly before the first of January 1794 - That he was at the wedding himself, and recollects several circumstan- ces that took place at it - and one in regard to himself - That they lived together, as man and wife, until the time of his death, which he believes was about the year 1800 - That they were frequently on a visit to M c Robert Mun- fords family in this County, after they were mar- ried - from Charlotte County, where they resided after they removed from Mecklenburg County. And further, that M c Anna Byrd, formerly Miss Anna Munford, the daughter of M c Robert Munford - has remained a widow, ever since the death of her husband, Col. Francis Sturges Byrd, and is a widow still to the best of his knowledge and belief -
R H Walker
Sworn to, and subscribed before me this day, and year above written -
Henry M. Daniel J. P.

State of Virginia
Mecklenburg County to wit, On this 8 th day of November 1838, personally appeared before me Richard W. Walker a Jus- -tice of the peace in and for the County aforesaid M c Peter Puryear a Respectable citizen of said County - who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath say - That he does know of his own personal know- -ledge that Col. Otway Byrd an officer in the Revolutionary war - was married to Miss Anna Munford (alias Nancy) the second da- -ughter of Col. Robert Munford of the afore- -said County between the years 1779 and 1785 and certainly before the first of January 1794 - That they lived together as man and wife until his death and that she has remained a widow ever since, and is a widow at this time, to the best of his knowledge and belief - and further the said Miss Munford now the widow of Col. Otway Byrd dec d was known to me by the name of Nancy Munford - and further The deponent sayeth not -
P. Puryear.
Sworn to, and subscribed before me this day and year above written
R. Walker. J. P.

I Richard B. Baptist clerk of the county court of Mecklenburg county in the state of Virginia do certify that Henry M. Daniel and Richard H. Walker who have signed the foregoing certificates are acting Justices of the peace in and for the county aforesaid and that the signatures purporting to be theirs are genuine.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name and affixed the seal of the said county at office. This 9 th day of November 1838. in the 63 rd year of the commonwealth.
Rich d B. Baptist. clerk.

Extract
from the Journal of the House of Delegates of Wednesday the twenty third day of June seventeen hundred & eighty four.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Brown, Mr. Speaker. The Senate have agreed to the bill to revive an act, entitled an act for calling in and finding the Paper money of this State with an amendment to which they desire the con- currence of this house; Also to the Resolutions for granting bounties of Land to Alexander McClanahan, Thomas Elliott, Olway Byrd , Leon Moore, William Mountjoy, Thornton Taylor, Gabriel Maupin, Charles West, William Boyce, Nathaniel Lucas, Michael Bowyer & Leven Powell, with an amendment to the last, to which they desire the concurrence of this house; also to the Resolution directing the Auditors to grant a specie certificate to Edmund Webb, to settle the accounts of John Watkins, directing the Treasurer to receive from the Sheriffs notes for tobacco destroyed at the Rocky Ridge, collected by them before the burning of the said warehouse; for allowing sums of money to Isaac Hacker, Arthur Aiken, and William Meredith, directing the Auditors to settle the accounts of Stenball Pratt, and for putting John Angel and George Brown on the list of Pensioners. And then he withdrew. —

State of Virginia } City of Richmond } to wit: -
I George W. Munford Clerk of the House of Delegates & Keeper of the Rolls of the Commonwealth of Virginia do hereby certify and make known that the foregoing extract is a true copy from the Journal of the House of Delegates of Virginia. - Given under my hand this fourteenth day of Novr. 1838.
George W. Munford, C.H.D. & Keeper of the Rolls of V a .
Extracts from the Journals of the Va. Leg. in regard to the Service of Col. Anthony Breyes To wit -
Side de Camp to Genl Lee
Yo will - from
15 th Sep r . 75. To Jan 1 . 77.
and Col of Cav y .
from =
Jan 1 . 1 77. To 15 th July 78.

Extracts
from the Journal of the House of Delegates of Friday the eighteenth day of June seventeen hundred and eighty four.
Mr. Carter Henry Harrison reported from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances that the Committee had accord- ing to order had under their consideration several petitions to them referred and had agreed upon a report and come to several resolutions thereupon which he read in his place and afterwards, in at the Clerks' table where the same were again read and are as followeth: -
"It appears to your Committee that Otway Byrd resigned his commission in the British service and in September 1775 was appointed Aid de Camp to General Lee, in which capacity he acted until the first day of January 1777, when he was appointed Lieutenant Colonel of Light Dragoons, and acted under that appointment until the 15 th of July 1778.
2 nd Resolved that it is the opinion of this Committee that the petition of the said Otway Byrd praying that a bounty in Lands may be given him, is reasonable, and that he

ought to be allowed the like proportion as by law given to a lieutenant colonel. —
The first, second, third & fourth Resolutions being severally read a second time, were on the question put thereupon, agreed to by the house. —
Ordered that Mr. Carter Henry Harrison do carry the first second, third and fourth resolutions to the Senate and desire their concurrence. —
State of Virginia } City of Richmond } to wit: —
I George W. Munford Clerk of the House of Delegates & Keeper of the Rolls of the Commonwealth of Virginia do hereby certify that the foregoing are true extracts from the Journal of the House of Delegates of Virginia. Given under my hand this thirteenth day of Nov r . 1838.
George W. Munford, C. A. D. & Keeper of the Rolls of Va.

The papers in the case of Anna Dyer widow of Col. Othney Dyer - for review on ad l . evidence.
Robt W Gray
Agent.
March 17. 1852
If Mr Gray is the agent in this case can please let him have the papers J.

Extract from the "proceedings of the Convention of Delegates "for the Counties and Corporations in the Colony of Virginia, "held at Richmond in the County of Henrico, on Monday "the 17 th day of July 1775." Williamsburg printed by Alexander Purdie.
"Saturday August 26. 1775.
"It appearing to the Convention that Otway Byrd, esq; had on "account of his attachment to American liberty, resigned his "provision and prospects in the British navy, and may be "destitute of employment,
"Resolved, That the said Otway Byrd, esq; be strongly "recommended to his Excellency general Washington, and the "Conventions of our Sister Colonies to the eastward, for promotion "in the Army in that neighbourhood; and that until such "promotion shall take place, or it shall be otherwise ordered by "this Convention, that he be allowed ten shillings a day, to "support him as a Cadet in the Continental Army, to com- "mence the day he joins the said Army, and that he be also "allowed the sum of £50. to be paid him immediately."
The above is a true copy from a printed Journal of the proceedings of the Convention held in Richmond, in the State of Virginia, on the 17 th day of July 1775. now in my possession. As witness my hand at Williamsburg in the State of Virginia this 28 th day of May 1817. in the 41 st year of the Independence of the United States of America.
John Tucker, District Judge of The United States, for the District of Virginia.

Oliver Byrd Recorded page 405

Surveyed for Oway Byrd 4255 acres of land on part of a Military Warrant N o 3367 on the rocky fork of Paint Creek beginning at a black oak, white thorn bush, and Elm south corner to John Moylands survey N o 2503 thence with Moylands line North 400 poles crossing the Creek at 230 poles to a Sycamore and Elm west corner to said Moyland and South corner to Moylands survey N o 2505. thence with the last mentioned survey N o 26 W 456 poles crossing a Branch at 266 poles and one at 366 poles to a White Oak Elm and Dog- wood, West Corner to said Survey thence S 73 W 910 poles crossing a Branch at 600 poles and another at 360 poles to Elm and black gum in the line of Robert Ballard's survey thence with his line S 17 E 600 poles crossing a Branch at 600 poles the Creek at 300 poles to hickory White Oak and Dogwood south east corner to said Ballard thence N 88 E 895 poles to the beginning
Duncan McArthur } Nathl W. Capie Esq. Archl. Donald } Dec r April 24 th 1795 Davis Lenoir } M. Examined Recorded May the 20 th 1795 Rich d Anderson Esq.
A
B
N o 2516
4255 Acres
N o 2516
1745 Acres
D Surveyed for Oway Byrd 1745 acres of land on part of a Military Warrant N o 3367 on the Waters of Paint Creek Beginning at the North west Corner of said Byrd's survey N o 2515. Elm and Black gum in the line of Robert Ballard's survey N o 2515 thence with Ballard's line N. 17 W 400 poles, to a black oak and hickory in the line of said Ballard's Survey - N o 2333. thence N 73 E 700 poles to a Sugar tree and white oak thence S 17 E 400 poles to two Black oaks in the line of said Byrd's survey thence with his line S 73 W 700 poles crossing a branch at 150 poles to the Beginning.
Duncan McArthur } Nathl W. Capie Esq. John Reed } } July 25 th 1796 George Graham } M. Examined Recorded July 27 th 1796 Rich d Anderson Esq.
  4882  1745    4255  1718    627  27  

Copy of Col o . Richard Anderson's Certificate.

At or about the time Col o Otway Byrd's military land was located, the terms on which I employed persons to do that business was for one third of the land or at the rate of twelve pounds ten shillings p r thousand acres the owner of the Warrant to be at liberty to determine, it is said that I employed Gen l Maspie to locate Col o Byrd's claim if did it was on these terms. Given under my hand this 23 rd day of May 1803. —
Richard C. Anderson A true Copy of a paper in Richard C. Anderson's handwriting sent by me to Henry Brush Attorney at law Chillicothe, this 13 th of Sept r 1808. — W m Munford.

Norfolk February the 18th 1800
Dear Sir,
My intended trip to Philadelphia has been arrested for many weeks by Mr. Long's illness, which has in the end terminated in his dissolution, and which will make my attendance in the Office essential. I must therefore my dear Sir, commit the trouble of this subject so interesting to my Family to you, and I will write to Generals Marshall & Lee to request their support, there are also other members that I am certain will feel an interest in contributing their aid to secure my rights, viz Messrs. Goode Page & Lee to whom I beg you to present me on the subject. Enclosed are the surveys, with a sketch of a petition, that if it be necessary to lay my claim before your Body I will beg you to build on: but my opinion is under the cession of those lands from this State, the proper Department is bound to issue patents on the grant; for the reservation in the act clearly retains to the Virginia Officers on Continental Establishment their quantity, and altho' there may be some objection, that, that to me was subsequent to the first act. yet Congress not acceding to the terms fully, and a second act of our Assembly being made
Yrs

a copy of which you will find under cover, and which was some years posterior to the special act in my case ought to entitle me to the Patents, without being compelled to petition Congress, but if you fail in procuring them on my error in this you will then be good enough to carry it before the last tribunal.
There is an account in the War department that shews I did not draw pay and subsistence for the whole time, that the Virginia act states my being in service; but surely that ought not to militate against me, for it was a point of delicacy, for when I was from the Army on furlough, I was returning, and was stopped by a spell of sickness that confined me many weeks, and as I ultimately determined to resign I did feel myself at liberty to draw for such time. I will no longer trespass on your time on this subject relying on the justness of my claim, I can have no doubt through you & my other friends the patents will be obtained from one or the other source. with best wishes to your daughter and associates I am dear Sir,
Your friend S ir :
Otway Byrd
Colo Parker

To the honourable the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
The Petition of Otway Byrd of the State of Virginia
Respectfully shews that,
That your Petitioner in consideration of military services performed during the revolutionary war with great Britain obtained from the General Assembly of Virginia a Resolution in his favor, on the eighteenth day of June 1784. allowing him the like portion of Lands, set apart for the best Benefit of the Officers and Soldiers of the on Continental establishment Virginia Line, as was was by law given to a Lieutenant Colonel. That in pursuance thereof your Petitioner immediately obtained a Warrant for six Thousand Acres, from the Land Office of Virginia, which was on the Thirtieth of June thereafter delivered to Colonel George Muter, and was  to put into the hands of Colonel Richard Cluff Anderson, the general Agent for the Officers of the Virginia Line, and the Surveyor by Law appointed to survey their Lands, to have the same compleated according to Law. That Nathaniel Mafie, Deputy surveyor for the said Anderson, located the same on the waters of Paint Creek on the North-west side of the river Ohio, presuming it to be lawful for him so to do, by virtue of that provision contained in the Act of Cession from the Commonwealth of Virginia, to the United States, which stipulates, "That " in case the Quantity of good Lands on the south east " side of the Ohio, upon the waters of Cumberland River

17 Rivers, and between the Green river and Tennessee river, 18 which have been reserved by Law for the Virginia Troops 19 upon Continental establishment, should from the 20 North Carolina line bearing in further upon the 21 Cumberland Lands than was expected, prove 22 insufficient for their legal Donations, the deficiency 23 should be made up to the said Troops, in good 24 Lands to be laid off between the rivers Sucko, 25 and Little Miami, on the North west side of 26 the river Ohio, in such proportions as have been 27 engaged to them by the Laws of Virginia. + That having obtained the surveys for the said Lands He applied to the Secretary of State to obtain a patent for the same, who has declined issuing a patent, because the resolution of the General Assembly of Virginia heretofore before mentioned made in your petitioners favour, was posterior to their Act of Cession. That your Petitioner is obliged to resort to the Lands on the South east side of the Ohio, at the distance a period from a period  vacancy  could probably could not find as much good  Land in that District as exempted from it would satisfy his claim, the same being before this period generally taken up or patented; and inasmuch as the error, if it be

one, was committed by a public Agent, and without the contrivance or privity of your Petitioner, he conceives himself to be justly entitled under the reservation contained in the Act of Cession, to receive a patent for the Lands surveyed for him.
Your Petitioner therefore respectfully solicits that Congress will be pleased to pass an Act in terms  directing the Secretary of State to grant him a patent for the said Lands, or such other Act, or Acts in his favor as in their wisdom they shall think proper.
+
See the Act of Virginia Cession, Oct: 1783. c. 18. Channellon Revisal page 214.

2
Jan. 21. 1839.
Other Byrd's widow
Admitted case
act 138
To be put with the papers in Mrs. Amice Byrd's case —
W. H. Gray, Lynchburg, Va. Agent

Dr The United States in Account
  To pay as L d Col o from 1 st Feby 1777 to 15 July 1778 393 15 "   To Returned Rations from 1 st June to 15 July 1778 6 " "   L 399 15 " 

With Okey Bird
62
   1777 Nov r By 8 Months pay - - - - - 180 " " 60 - -   1778 Jan y By 2 " " " " - - - - - 215 " " 11 5 "  
The foregoing is truly copied from a Book of settlements of the Officers of the Revolutionary Army.
Given under my hand at the Quarters Office Richmond, this 13 th day of November 1838.
See Health and

Resolved That Maj. Washington be promoted to the Rank of Lieut Col, in the room of Lieut Col Byrd, of Col Baylow dragons, resigned; and that he proceed to Bristol and take command of Col Baylow Regiment.
See Journals of Congress, Nov. 20. 1778—

At a Convention of Delegates for the Counties and Corporations in the Colony of Virginia, at the Town of Richmond in the County of Henrico. —
Saturday, August 26 th 1775. —
It appearing to the Convention, that Otway Byrd Esq. had, on account of his attachment to American Liberty resigned his provision and prospects in the British navy, and may be destitute of employment; —
Resolved, that the said Otway Byrd Esq. be strongly recommended to his Excellency General Washington, and the Conventions of our Sister Colonies to the eastward, for promotion in the Army in that neighbourhood; and that, until such promotion shall have taken place, or it be otherwise ordered by this Convention, that he be allowed ten shillings per day to support him as a Cadet in the Continental Army, to commence the day he joins the said Army, and that he be also allowed the sum of fifty pounds, to be paid him immediately. —
Commonwealth of Virginia; City of Richmond, town I William Munford Keeper of the Rolls for the said Commonwealth do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true Extract from the Journal of the Convention which commenced its session on Mon

day the seventeenth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred & seventy Given under my hand, (there being no seal of office at Richmond, this twenty fourth day of June the year one thousand eight hundred & seventy
Wm: Munford, Keeper of the Rolls.

32 52 Anna Byrd wid of Francis Otway N 5
Ad July 7 1835 Mamma 1781 died 1800
Allan as Ad Debamp 6 1/2 m. $130
St. Col 17 1/2 m. 437.50 V o Cal o line 567.50 per ann.
1135.00 283.75 1418.75
Hor W. Coles HR

State of Virginia
Corporation of Lynchburg S.S. On this 15 th day of April in 1843, before me D.R. Gymn an in a Justice of the peace, in and for said Corporation, personally appeared Mrs. Anna Byrd Aged 77 years - a resident of said Corporation: 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 the Act of Congress, passed on the 3 rd of March 1843; granting pensions to widows of persons who served during the Revolutionary War.
That she is the widow Francis Otway Byrd - dec d who was Aidecamp, and Col. of Cavalry, in the Continental line of Service, in and during the Revolutionary War. That the Annual amount of pension which she she received - as the widow of the said Francis Otway Byrd - under the Act of July 7, 1838; was of 567.50 cts - from the 4 th day of March 1836, to the 4 th day of March, 1841.
She further declares, that she is still a widow.
Ro. H. Gray
Anna Byrd X Byrd Mark
Sworn to and subscribed, on the day and year above written -
Before me - D.R. Gymn - J.P.

State of Virginia
Corporation of Lynchburg S.S.
I D r R Gynan a Justice of the peace, in and for said Corporation, do hereby certify, that M rs Anna Byrd, who has this day sworn to, and subscribed the foregoing declaration before me - is the reputed widow of Col. Francis Ottonay Byrd deceased who was by reputation an Officer in the Revolutionary war. That she is personally known to me, as the Identical person, who rec d a pension from the Gen l Govt as the widow of the said Francis Ottonay Byrd - at the rate of $567.50 cents pr. Annum, under the Act of July 7, 1838. And further, that she is too infirm to attend Court. Given under my hand this 15 th day of April ~ 1843.
D r R Gynan J.P.

State of Virginia
Corporation of Lynchburg S.S. On this 15 th day of April ~ 1843, before me D R Lyman ~ a Justice of the peace, in and for said Corporation, personally appeared M c Alere Tompkins a respectable resident of said Corporation, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath say—
That he knows M c Anna Byrd, who has sworn to and subscribed the foregoing declaration to be the widow of Col. Francis Ottonay Byrd and who was an officer in the Rev d War— having 2 d 6,000 acres of land for his Rev d services. That M c Anna Byrd above named is the Identical person, who rec d a pension from the Gen d Govt, as the widow of said Francis Ottonay Byrd under the Act of July 7, 1838, — at the rate of $ 567. 50 cts pr. An. for five years — from the 4 th day of March 1836, to the 4 th day of March 1841 — and further that she is still a widow; and alive at this date.
Also under Tompkins
Sworn to and subscribed, on the day and year above written —
Before me — D R Lyman J.P.
2336

At a Court of Pleasants of Quarterly Sessions held for the Town of Lynchburg at the Court house in the said Town on the 5 th day of June 1843.
The declaration of Mrs Anna Byrd widow of Francis Ottomay Byrd an Officer of the revolutionary war being read in Court in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress March 3 rd 1843 granting pensions to widows &c together with the certificate of D. R. Lyman Esq r and the affidavit of Alexander Tompkins and the Court being satisfied the same is genuine doth order that it be certified to the War Department that Mrs Anna Byrd named in the above referred to declaration is the widow of Colonel Francis Ottomay Byrd who was an officer of the Revolutionary War and that she is the identical person who received a pension for five years under the Act of July 4 th 1838 from the 4 th March 1836 to the 4 th March 1841 at the rate of Five hundred and sixty seven dollars and fifty cents per annum and that she is still alive and a widow And the Court doth further certify that D. R. Lyman is now and was at the time of signing the same an acting Justice of the peace in and for said Corporation at the time of signing the said declaration and that his signature is genuine and that Alexander Tompkins is a respectable resident of said Corporation and that his oath is entitled to credit.
I James Benagh Clerk of the Pleasants Court for the Town of Lynchburg aforesaid do hereby (the said Court being a Court of record) do hereby certify that the foregoing is a True Transcript from the records of the said Court. In testimony where
of I have hereunto signed my name as Clerk and affixed the seal of the said Pleasants Court this Twelfth day of June in the year 1843 and in the 67 th year of the Commonwealth.
J. Benagh Clerk.

Chief Clerk's Room March 20 th 1852
The grounds on which an increase of pen n is claimed in the case of Anna B Wright Ex w of Mr. Anna Byrd, widow of Col. Otway Byrd - are -
That in no rank, or capacity, in which he served, from Sept. 1775. to 15 July 78 - either as Cadet, Aide de Camp to Maj r Gen l Lee - or, Col of Cav y did he ever receive less than $50. p r Month - or $600 p r An m . as an the amount of pen n is allowed on Staff rank Service, independent of the fact, whether the officer belonged to the line or not - Mr. Byrd was therefore entitled to a pen n of $600 p r An m . instead of $567.50. which she rec d in her life time. This we always contended for, and never acquiesced in the allowance of $567.50.
The grounds upon which the Com t of Mr. Edwards made their re d was, that the services of Byrd, while Aide to Maj r Gen l Lee, was only rated on the pay of a Capt t of Infantry - while the Res n of Cong s of June 5, 1776, and January 18. 1782. rank Aide de Camp to Major Gen l as Majors, and are entitled to the same pay and Emoluments, as Majors in the line.
The Com t of pen n will see from the Extracts from the Journals of the V a Leg. filed - that Byrd was Aide to,

Dear Gen l Lee - from Sept. 15, 1775, to Jan y 1, 1777. at $80. per Month - and Col of Cav y -
From Jan y 1, 77, to 15 th July 1778.
The Increase therefore will be, $32.50. per M th , from March 4, 1836, to the 21 st Aug t . 1844. where M rs . Byrd died.
The Reso n of Comp t . of June 5, 1776, was prop d while Byrd was in Service - and is entirely silent as to time Service - and of course from that date he rec d the same pay as tho he was Major. by To wit $80 per Month. th As from the 5 th of June 1776, to Jan y 1 st 1778 - which is 6 mo. and 25 days - 10 days more than is ne- -cessary to make up the 2 years - after computing the time he was Col of Cav y to July 15. 1778 - To wit.
17½ Mo. as Col. of Cav y - and 6½ do as M aj . to M aj Gen l . Lee -
The case I consider entirely clear, and respect- -fully ask an Increase as above.
Respectfully -
Rob t H. Gray
Ans.
cs

Wash. Feb. 20, 1852
Sir
I take this early opportunity to reply to yours of yesterday - and deny that the decision in the case of Anna Byrd, allowing her $567.50. for the under the pen st act of 1838 - ever was acquired in, by the widow or the heirs after her death as my letters, and the papers in the case will show, and that instead of acquiring we have been knocking at the Treas y ever since the first allowance, for the increase of $32.50. per An.
The fact of M rs Byrd having rec d . and enjoyed the benefit of the act above, for the An s The dept t thought proper to allow her, is but in conformity with the usage; acquired in by the dept t ever since its organization - to consider the case always open in appeal, for Increase of pension on additional evidence, or error in decision of the Examining clerk &c - for if this had not been so - The applicant would be compelled to take, whatever the dept t might think proper to allow the poor old pensioner, on the first evidence filed, or decision of the dept t or get nothing at all - but which their necessities, might compel them to receive - when in fact, as an after

Since an abundance of evidence might be produced to justify the allowance of a larger amt. of pen- you do not specify any act of Cong. upon which the dept has barred this class of claims from increase, on a review, upon ad l evidence in conformity with long established  the rules of the dept., nor can any act of Cong. be cited to justify it - and I therefore respectfully protest against this decision of Mr. Tiptell the clerk - and his assumption of power. and request, that this letter be filed with the papers - in order that when the case shall be taken before Cong. on appeal, the Committee shall not be able to use the plea of acquiescence in your decision, now or heretofore against us.
Respectfully -
Robt. H. Gray
att e :
for heirs,

Set. Anna Boyle
N. H. Gray, July 16, 1843

1909 Oct. 20. Hist. to Mrs Arthur Jennings and 1924, Apr. 16 - Hist. to Mary Byrd Deyerle. um 1934 June 27. Hist. to Mrs. Philip A. Spencer Grey
Rev  WIDOW, &c.
File No. 6219
Annie Byrd  Wid.
Francis Otway Byrd  Col. Aid Decamp Bvt.
Act: Mch. 31/43
Index: — Vol. a , Page 111

To the honourable the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled.
The petition of Otway Byrd,
Most respectfully shewseth, That your petitioner at a very early period of life was entered as a midshipman in the British navy, by his Father, the late William Byrd esq r . of Westover in Virginia, and actually served in that capacity on board several ships of war, and particularly the Trovey , then commanded by George Montague esq r . until within four months of the period required by the rules of the British navy for obtaining a Lieutenant's commission. That in the year 1774. apprehending that his native country might be thrown into a state of actual hostility with the crown in whose immediate service he then was, he repeatedly solicited his father's permission to leave the navy, preferring, under such circumstances, to abandon his prospects though considered as extremely flattering under the patronage & Friendship of a Commander of rank and connexion with persons in power. — That, his Father's assent, unfortunately for your petitioner could not be obtained — That he not only objected in the strongest Terms to such a step, but threatened in case of perseverance therein to cut him off from every provision intended for him by his will; and did in reality by his last will and Testament bearing date the . . . day of July 1774. make the following conditional provision for your petitioner — viz: "It is my will and desire that at "the death of my dearest wife all my Estates whatsoever, consisting of Lands "Rigors, Stocks of all sorts, plate, Books and Furniture be sold as soon as "convenient and the money arising from the sales thereof be equally divided "among all my Children that are alive at the time of my dear wife's "death. My will is that if my son Otway should quit the navy at "the death of my dearest wife that he shall not be entitled to a "part of the above said money arising from the above said sales."

That patents have since been obtained for the lands therein mentioned which lie at the Falls of the Ohio, and as your petitioner  master hath been informed are extremely valuable; but he can form no estimate of the value of the distributive proportion of the estate to which he might have been entitled at the decease of Mrs. Byrd, who is still living.
Your Petitioner begs leave further to add that he entered into the service of his Country immediately after the commencement of hostilities, and served during the campaigns of 1775. and 1776. as aid du camp to General Lee, and after that period as a Lieut. Colonel of Cavalry, till the year 1779 when, finding his pay from the great depreciation of money at that time utterly inadequate to support him in the rank he held, and being, from a total deprivation of resources from an offended parent, then deceased, unable to maintain him in the Army, he reluctantly resigned his Commission: and by such resignation was excluded from that recompense, which other Officers, who were enabled to remain in service, till the conclusion of the war, have since received.
Having thus forfeited his hopes of preferment, and an adequate provision in his first profession, and all that he might have expected as a patrimonial provision by his dereliction of the royal Cause; and from the peculiar distress and hardship of his situation, all that he might have claim'd from the Justice of his country, could he have remained in that Service which his Inclination and principles equally prompted him to embrace, he presumes to hope that an application to the supreme Legislature for such a compensation as may be deem'd adequate to his sacrifices, and services, will not be regarded as presumptuous or unreasonable.
And your Petitioner will ever pray &c

This Indenture made this eight day of October in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty one between Robert Munford of the parish of Saint James in the county of Mecklenburg of the one part and Olway Byrd of the parish and county aforesaid of the other part. Witnesseth, that the said Robert Munford for divers good causes and considerations him thereunto moving, but more especially for the love and affection he hath for the said Olway Byrd and his Daughter Ursula Anna Byrd as also for the consideration of five shillings to him in hand paid the Receipt whereof he doth hereby acknowledge hath bargained and sold and by these presents doth give grant bargain and sell unto the said Olway Byrd and to his heirs a certain tract or parcel of land situate lying and being on Roanoke River in the parish and County aforesaid and bounded as followeth Beginning at the spring Branch called magstoffs branch thence N o as the Branch meanders to the road next the spring, thence west as the road meanders to a corner Gum on Bakers line thence on the said line to Roanoke River, thence down the River as it meanders to the beginning, with all woods underwoods mays water and water courses thereunto belonging and the Reversion and Reversions Remainder and Remainders Rents Issues and profits thereof. To have and to hold the said Land and Premises with all and every of its appurtenances to the said Olway Byrd and his Heirs to the only use and behoof of the said Olway Byrd his heirs and assigns forever; And the said Robert Munford the said Land and premises against him the said Robert Munford and his heirs to the said Olway Byrd and his heirs and against the claim or demand of any person or persons whatsoever shall and will warrant and defend by these presents. In Witness whereof the said Robert Munford hath hereunto set his hand and affixed his seal the Day and Year above written. signed sealed & acknowledged } before us
Robt: Munford
William Beverly Fitzhugh Edward his X Hogan mark

At a Court held for Mecklenburg County the 8 th day of October 1781.
This Indenture was acknowledged by Robert Munford a party thereto and ordered to be Recorded.
Teste John Brown Sec.
Copy Richd. B. Baptist C.C.
The record of Marriages, in the Clerks Office of Mecklenburg County, Virginia, commences in 1784. Of course no information can be obtained from this Office of marriages pre- vious to that date.
Richd. B. Baptist C.C. Nov. 9 th 1838.

Westover 25 July 1775. Othway Byrd
John Page Jun Geo. Mason Edm. Pendleton Carter Braxton Thos. L. Lee John Banister Mr P
Westover 25 July 1775 Othway Byrd

Dear Sir,
I have left the Navy contrary to my Father's inclination. I don't know what may be the consequence. You must be assured that nothing but the present unhappy disturbances would have induced me to take this step. Had to prove to my Countrymen my willingness to serve them should a standing Army be Rais'd. I would wish for some post in it - For which purpose I take the liberty to solicit your Interest - this being unknown to my Father I should wish to have kept secret. I am Dear Sir,
with great Esteem
Your very Humble Servant
Westover July the 25 th 1775
Anthony Byrd

Mar 27. 45
Jas. L. Garancis Esq.
Va. born of Pennsylvania
Washington City
D.C.
FREE

ser 1 in
Synchd. March 22 nd 1845
Sir, Inconsistent with my rights to ask it - you will please examine the evidence filed in Mrs Anna Byrds case - widow of Francis Oluary Byrd of the Cavalry - Va cont. line - and see if Mrs Byrd is not entitled to an increase of pension - on the difference between the rate of pension allowed her on her husband's services, as Aid-de-Camp to Genl. Lee, - you allowed her pension for 17 1/2 mo. services on the rank of Lieut Col. of Cavalry at the rate of $600. pr An. and for 6 1/2 mo. services as aid-de-camp - at the rate of $480. pr An. - rank in line of Cap. of Infantry - making her pension $567.50 pr An. I perceive, that by an act of Congress, that in addition to their rank in line aid-de-camps were allowed $24. pr mo. additional making his (Byrds) pay $64. pr mo - instead of $40. pr mo. as allowed. consequently she is entitled to an increase of pension at the rate of $32.50. pr An - the difference between his rank in line, at $480. pr An and his actual pay, so as to make the pension $600. pr An Please let me hear from you on this subject.
When at your office I understood De Cranch to promise to issue the certificates of Mrs Margaret Lockard, and Mary Dunclelor of Nelson, as soon as he had gotten rid of Congregional, privileged men - he so good as to forward them as soon the nature of your business will admit.
Yours respectfully -
No. H Gray

THIS SIDE OF CARD IS FOR ADDRESS
Administrator, Veterans administration Washington 6, D.C.
b. l.
Rev. War Records Section.

Wintonville, Pa. Apr. 24, 1934. Dearest Sir, Please send me proof of Rev. services, also all family data concerning St. Col. O'way Byrd (Byrd) whose wife was Anna and received homestead land in 1803. Name all children with dates. Do you find any claim for James Byrd of S. W. Pa. etc. ? Do you know can not William Byrd of the same place? Also send records for Agarist Cartes and John Haynes S. W. Pa. and Hampshire Tenn. We need this data for S.A.B. papers.
Many thanks. Very truly Yours - Philip A. Spence.

March 19- 1924
Dear Sir
Will you please send me the Revolutionary record of my ancestor Francis Otway Byrd. who served under Major Gen Lee 1775 to 1777.
Mary Byrd Deyo 1005 E. Marshall St. Richmond Va
P.S.
His wife's name was Anne Munford.

Will you kindly give me information of Francis Allway Byrd who served in Revolutionary War as Lieut. Colonel 3 rd Reg. Light Dragoons, Continental Troops. Commissioned March 14, 1777.. What was the date & manner of termination of service of this officer? Was he ever of higher rank, than Lieut. Colonel and

did he serve under Genl. Lincoln?
Thanking you in ad- vance for any trouble you may take in regard to above queries -
Truly yours,
Mrs. Arthur Jennings
903 Federal St.
Lynchburg
Va.
Oct: 8/09.

April 16, 1924.
Mary Byrd Deyerle, 1005 E. Marshall St., Richmond, VA.
Madam:
I have to advise you that from the papers in Revolutionary War pension claim, W.6219, it appears that Francis Otway Byrd, the son of William Byrd of Westover, Virginia, became a Midshipman in the British Navy when very young and served on several ships, particularly the "Fowey." He resigned from said service to join the Continental Army, for which action his father who died in January 1777 left him one shilling only, and 1000 acres of land which had been granted by His Majesty's proclamation of 1763.
Francis Otway Byrd was appointed a Cadet in the Continental Army on July 17, 1775, and an Aide-de-Camp to General Lee in September 1775, under whom he served during the campaigns of 1775 and 1776. On January 1, 1777, he was commissioned Lieutenant-Colonel of Light Dragoons and acted as such until he resigned on July 15, 1778.
He received 6000 acres of bounty land from the State of
a/r

Virginia for his services.
He married in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, April 6, 1781, Ursula Anna (called Nancy), the second daughter of Robert Munford of said County.
They first settled in Charles City County, Virginia, where he was High Sheriff and moved thence to Norfolk where he held the office of Collector of the Port until he died in September 1800.
His widow was allowed pension on an application executed October 30, 1838, at which time she was seventy-three years of age and a resident of Lynchburg, Virginia, where she died on August 21, 1844, leaving Mrs. Ann O. Wright as her executrix.
Respectfully,
Acting Commissioner.

October 20, 1909.
Mrs. Arthur Jennings, # 903 Federal Street, Lynchburg, Va.
Madam:
In reply to your letter dated the 8" and received the 11" instant, you are advised that from the papers in the claim Wid. File No. 6,819, it appears that Francis Otway Byrd, the son of William Byrd of Westover, Virginia, became a Midshipman in the British Navy when very young and served on several ships, particularly the "Fowey". He resigned from said service to join the Continental Army, for which action his father who died in January 1777 left him one shilling only, and 1000 acres of land which had been granted by The Majesty's proclamation of 1763.
Francis Otway Byrd was appointed a Cadet in the Continental Army on July 17, 1775, and an Aide-de-Camp to General Lee in September, 1775, under whom he served during the campaigns of 1775 and 1776. On January 1, 1777 he was commissioned Lieut. Colonel of Light Dragoons, and acted as such until he resigned on July 15, 1778.
He received 6000 acres of bounty land from the State of Virginia for his services.
He married in Mecklenburg County, Virginia, April 6, 1781, Ursula Anna (called Nancy) the 2nd daughter of Robert Munford of said County.

They first settled in Charles City County, Virginia, where he was High Sheriff and moved thence to Norfolk where he held the office of Collector of the Port until he died in September 1800.
His widow was allowed pension on an application executed October 30, 1838 at which time she was seventy three years of age and a resident of Lynchburg, Virginia, where she died on August 21, 1844, leaving Mrs. Ann D. Wright as her executrix.
Very respectfully,
Acting Commissioner.